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At MWC IoT Summit 2026, Kigen made the case that the EU Cyber Resilience Act is not a compliance burden — it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. For manufacturers who move now, the competitive advantage is structural.

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 June 2026 – 5.5 trillion dollars. That is the annual cost of cybercrime to the global economy — a figure larger than the GDP of every nation except the United States and China. Behind it lies a single, solvable problem: billions of connected devices shipped without robust security baked in.

At MWC IoT Summit 2026 in Shanghai, Jean-Louis Carrara, SVP Global Sales at Kigen, delivered a keynote that reframed this challenge as an inflection point. The message was clear: the era of voluntary security is over, and the manufacturers who recognise this first will define the competitive landscape for the decade ahead.

The Regulation That Changes Everything

The EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) is the most significant cybersecurity legislation ever enacted. It covers more than 90% of all IoT products containing digital elements — sensors, gateways, industrial equipment, consumer devices. If it connects, it is covered.

Manufacturers must now provide security updates across a five-year product lifecycle, report confirmed security incidents within 72 hours, and demonstrate security by design from the earliest stages of product development. Non-compliance carries penalties of up to €15 million, or 2.5% of global annual turnover.

Documentation requirements and vulnerability management obligations are already in force from September 2026. For any product in development today — any product planned for market entry in 2027 — compliance is not a future consideration. It is a present one.

“Security is no longer a cost to be minimised. It is an investment in market access, competitive standing, and long-term resilience.”

Market Access as Competitive Advantage

Independent analysis puts the average cost of CRA compliance at approximately €100,000 per product line. Against a potential penalty exposure of €15 million, the arithmetic is straightforward. But Carrara pressed further: as the compliance threshold rises, EU market access becomes selectively available — a structural advantage for those who are ready.

This is the reframe that matters. Security is not a constraint on speed to market. It is the enabler of access to the world’s most demanding — and most rewarding — markets.

Proof at Scale — and Under Pressure

Kigen’s eSIM technology operates across more than 250 terrestrial and satellite networks worldwide. Hundreds of millions of devices. Decades of real-world hardening. But scale, Carrara argued, is not the same as trust.

Trust is demonstrated when the stakes are highest. When significant vulnerabilities were identified in eSIM frameworks used across the industry, Kigen responded within 72 hours — developing and sharing a patch openly, without paywalls, in full coordination with the GSMA and in alignment with ENISA disclosure guidelines.

“We did not wait for regulation to demand it,” Carrara said. “We acted because it was right — and because the industry’s security is only as strong as its weakest point. Our actions supported the coordinated response to develop countermeasures and mitigate the risks and we continue to collaborate on furthering these by contributing back through GSMA and other standards bodies. With certified eSIMs now carrying capabilities to patch, the tools are available for the mandates OEMs must meet on cybersecurity – readily, with our expertise.”

The Platform Already Built

Kigen’s platform delivers autonomous over-the-air security updates — deployable across an entire installed fleet without physical intervention. Native IoT profile management enables secure provisioning at manufacturing scale. Proven interoperability across the global operator ecosystem ensures devices function wherever customers need them.

Kigen also chairs the GSMA eSIM Working Group, actively advancing standards that raise the security floor for the entire industry — not to hold competitive advantage, but to make the ecosystem stronger for everyone.

The Convergence Moment

AI is transforming manufacturing. Advanced connectivity is extending that transformation to every point on the globe. And regulatory-grade security is the condition that makes all of it trustworthy. These forces are converging — and the window for first-mover advantage is open.

The imperative to build every capability in-house belongs to a previous era. The manufacturers who will define this decade are those who identify where deep, specialised expertise already exists — and accelerate their path to market by partnering with it.

The regulatory framework is clear. The technical capability is proven. Trust, at scale, is a durable advantage.

Hashtag: #Kigen #eSIM #MWC #CRA

https://www.kigen.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/kigen
https://x.com/Kigen_Ltd
Wechat: KigenChina

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

Kigen (UK) Limited

Kigen is the forerunner in secure eSIM and RSP solutions, enabling manufacturers to adopt and scale cellular IoT with ease. Our award-winning solutions are certified to GSMA eSA (eUICC Security Assurance) and SAS (Security Accreditation Scheme) standards—the highest levels of security assurance in the industry. Our technology delivers freedom to choose from 200+ terrestrial and satellite networks, compliant to EU and China cybersecurity and data regulations for export products, with proven interoperability on leading chipsets and modules.

Backed by Arm, SoftBank Vision Fund 2, SBI Group and Salica Investments, Kigen is trusted by leading global brands in consumer electronics, energy, automotive, logistics, and industrial automation.

Learn more at https://kigen.com/ or follow @kigen for #FutureofSIM matters on LinkedIn.

At Cemtech Asia 2026, SCG demonstrated its commitment to advancing the cement industry through tangible low-carbon cement innovations. Mr. Surachai Nimlaor, President of SCG Cement and Green Solutions, stated:

“As the region’s leader in the low-carbon cement industry, SCG is dedicated to developing breakthrough innovations that minimize resource consumption and maximize eco-friendliness. By steadily reducing carbon dioxide emissions, we directly address the evolving demands and adaptation challenges of the construction industry across ASEAN and global markets.”

Alongside showcasing its cutting-edge LC3 low-carbon cement prototype at the exhibition, SCG hosted an exclusive site visit to its Ta Luang Cement Plant in Saraburi Province for global delegates. Key highlights of the showcase and tour included:

• SCG LC3 Structural Cement: Developed from limestone, calcined clay, and specialized additives, this next-generation low-carbon cement reduces CO2 emissions by up to 30–40%. Its production process incorporates up to 40% biomass alternative fuels (such as rice husks and straw) and over 35% renewable energy. This is achieved without compromising any product performance or structural integrity, with its environmental performance independently verified through an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).
• Rondo Heat Battery: SCG has pioneered ASEAN’s first installation of the Rondo Heat Battery at the Ta Luang Cement Plant. Developed in collaboration with Rondo Energy, this breakthrough thermal energy storage solution converts intermittent renewable power into high-temperature thermal energy, storing it at up to 1,500°C in thermal media. With an exceptional energy recovery efficiency of up to 97% and a lifespan exceeding 40 years, the system provides a continuous 24/7 supply of clean heat, supporting the decarbonization of industrial manufacturing processes.

• Refractory Solutions by The Siam Refractory Industry Co., Ltd. (SRIC): As a leading global refractory solutions provider, SRIC showcased its advanced technologies and innovative solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and sustainability, including:
  1. Anti-Hydration Brick: The world’s first Anti-Hydration brick, extending shelf life from 6 to 24 months. This breakthrough innovation helps minimize material degradation, reduce production downtime, and improve overall operational efficiency.
  2. Thermal Media for Heat Battery: Co-developed with Rondo Energy, these high-performance heat storage blocks deliver up to 97% thermal efficiency, enabling reliable 24-hour energy availability and supporting the transition toward cleaner industrial energy solutions.
     • Solar Floating: Installed at the Ta Luang Cement Plant, this floating solar array generates 16.6 million kWh of clean electricity annually, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by over 8,000 tons of CO₂ equivalent per year. By repurposing the plant’s industrial reservoirs, the system optimizes resource efficiency and highlights SCG’s integration of green energy into heavy industry.

As co-host of Cemtech ASIA 2026, SCG reaffirmed its role as a trusted industry leader on the global stage. The event served as a major catalyst for expanding business networks and facilitating high-level technology and knowledge exchanges with world-class industry players. Moving forward, SCG is dedicated to cultivating global alliances to propel Thailand’s cement industry toward a Net Zero pathway, solidifying its position as ASEAN’s cement leader.

Watch the video:

CEMTECH ASIA 2026 | SCG Driving ASEAN’s Cement Industry Towards Net Zero

https://youtu.be/wCvSYeumGLY?si=nFle1kClP8sYR9z3

Hashtag: #SCG

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

The debate has sharpened as enterprises test AI systems for strategy modelling, risk alerts, market forecasting, compliance reviews and scenario planning. These tools promise faster decisions and broader analysis, but they also raise questions over directors’ duties, audit trails and responsibility when algorithmic advice shapes corporate choices.

Singapore has positioned itself as one of Asia’s most active AI governance centres, combining public investment, industry adoption programmes and voluntary frameworks rather than sweeping legislation. The approach is designed to encourage innovation while keeping human accountability at the centre of AI deployment. That balance is now being tested as companies examine whether AI can move beyond back-office functions and become a structured part of board deliberations.

The issue has gained urgency because AI systems are no longer limited to producing summaries or automating routine workflows. Newer agentic AI tools can plan tasks, reason across data, trigger actions and interact with software systems with limited human intervention. For corporate boards, such capability creates both opportunity and exposure. A system that can flag liquidity pressure, supply-chain disruption or reputational risk may improve oversight. A system that gives flawed recommendations based on incomplete data, hidden bias or weak assumptions may deepen governance failures.

Singapore’s corporate law framework continues to place responsibility on human directors. Directors are expected to act honestly, use reasonable diligence and discharge their duties in the company’s interests. That obligation does not shift to software vendors, consultants or internal AI teams merely because a board relied on machine-generated analysis. If directors accept AI output without challenge, the legal and reputational risk remains with the board.

Regulators have therefore focused on controls rather than replacement. Financial institutions already face sharper expectations because AI is being used in credit, insurance, fraud detection, wealth management and customer engagement. The fairness, ethics, accountability and transparency principles promoted for data-driven finance have helped shape how firms assess AI systems, particularly where customer outcomes may be affected. Proposed AI risk-management guidance for the sector points towards stronger board oversight, model governance, validation, monitoring and escalation procedures.

For non-financial companies, the same discipline is becoming harder to avoid. Listed companies must show that boards oversee strategy, risk and management performance. As AI begins to influence capital allocation, workforce planning, cyber-risk management and mergers, directors may need to demonstrate that they understand what the tools can and cannot do. Board papers generated by AI may require clear labelling, version control and records of the human judgement applied before decisions are approved.

The government’s wider AI strategy has added momentum. Singapore has refreshed national AI priorities, expanded support for enterprises and set out plans to help thousands of businesses adopt AI meaningfully. Public investment in AI research, computing capacity and talent is intended to strengthen national competitiveness, while partnerships with major technology firms are drawing more AI activity into the city-state.

Corporate leaders are watching these moves closely. Singapore’s appeal as a trusted business hub depends partly on whether it can offer companies a stable governance environment for AI adoption. The city-state has avoided a heavily prescriptive regime, preferring practical frameworks, testing tools and assurance mechanisms. That has helped businesses experiment, but it also means boards cannot simply wait for detailed rules before acting.

A growing concern is explainability. Board decisions often involve judgement under uncertainty, but directors must still be able to justify their reasoning. AI tools can generate polished recommendations without revealing how conclusions were reached or which data points carried the most weight. That creates problems for audit committees, external auditors and regulators when a decision later comes under scrutiny.

Another risk is over-reliance. Directors may treat AI output as neutral because it appears data-driven, even when the underlying model reflects skewed training data, weak prompts or commercial assumptions built by vendors. Smaller enterprises face an added challenge because they may lack internal expertise to test systems independently. For them, AI adoption can depend heavily on third-party products whose limitations are not always clear.

Singapore’s emerging answer is likely to rest on disclosure, assurance and accountability. AI “nutrition labels” under discussion would help users understand intended uses and limitations of AI products. Testing frameworks and accredited evaluation bodies could make it easier for companies to compare tools and identify risks before deployment. These measures would not remove directors’ obligations, but they could give boards a clearer basis for responsible adoption.

By K Raveendran The new FCRA rules may look like an administrative tightening of India’s foreign funding regime, but their political effect is likely to be far larger than their legal wording suggests. On paper, the framework is simple: organisations receiving foreign donations must be more precise about what they do, where they operate, and […]

The article Strained Atmosphere Adds To Suspicion About New FCRA Rule Changes appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

As one of the members of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s GoGlobal Task Force, HKPC provides enterprises with “Six Tactics to Go Global” through “The Cradle – Go Global Service Centre” (The Cradle), delivering comprehensive going-global services spanning smart manufacturing, international standards and testing services, as well as technology R&D and evaluation. HKPC actively empowers both Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong enterprises to expand into global markets. Simultaneously, HKPC is actively enabling European and international enterprises to access the Chinese Mainland market through Hong Kong, fully building a seamless, two-way bridge that highlights Hong Kong’s unique strategic advantage as an indispensable “two-way springboard”.

Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Innovation Officer of HKPC, attended the Hong Kong Seminar-cum-Networking Reception, themed “Building Resilient Tech Ecosystems: Powering the Next Wave of International Tech Leadership from Hong Kong,” organised by the HKTDC, engaging in in-depth exchanges with global industry leaders to advance Hong Kong’s position as an international I&T centre connected to the global innovation ecosystem.

Empowering Local I&T Enterprises to Seize Global Business Opportunities, Deepening Two-way Collaboration Between the Chinese Mainland and Europe

Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Innovation Officer of HKPC, said: “As one of the world’s leading technology events, VivaTech serves as an exceptional gateway for Hong Kong’s I&T enterprises to step onto the international stage. HKPC continues to lead the industry in participating in prestigious exhibitions at home and abroad, showcasing Hong Kong’s R&D strengths in full. Hong Kong’s unique advantage in integrating with the world allows it to provide high-quality strategic support that helps Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong enterprises to ‘go global’, while also serving as a key ‘two-way springboard’ that helps outstanding European and international enterprises entre the Chinese Mainland market through Hong Kong. HKPC will continue its unique position as a bridge, driving complementary strengths and fostering mutually beneficial collaboration across regions.”

He added that since its establishment, “The Cradle” has received more than 500 expressions of interest and has provided over 300 projects with go global services, including preliminary assessments, smart manufacturing technologies, testing and certification, as well as on-site visits. Drawing on HKPC’s extensive experience in leading enterprises to go global, HKPC will continue to empower more I&T enterprises successfully expand overseas and tap into global markets.

Top-tier and Diverse I&T Achievements Make Their Debut, Shining on the European Tech Stage

The four participating Hong Kong I&T enterprises showcased a range of cutting-edge technology fields to the European market at the “Hong Kong Tech Pavilion”, including Asgard Group Limited, specialising in smart energy and EV charging solutions; Laputa Eco-Construction Material Company Ltd, which develops sustainable construction technology, specialising in carbon capture and utilisation technologies; Oriental Materials Hong Kong Limited, which focuses on advanced manufacturing and manufacturing of semiconductor equipment; and Harmony SkyTech Limited, which specialises in the low-altitude economy and unmanned systems.

Representatives from all four I&T enterprises agreed that their participation helped them tap into cross-regional business opportunities, making a significant landmark for Hong Kong’s I&T sector, while HKPC’s “The Cradle” provided indispensable professional team support, helping them align precisely with international technical standards and localise their products, serving as a solid backing for their cross-regional expansion and rapid entry onto the international stage.
Hashtag: #HKPC

https://www.hkpc.org/en/

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About Hong Kong Productivity Council

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.

HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.

To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.

HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical , assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.

In Singapore today, employability is no longer defined by academic achievement alone. Employers are looking for graduates who can apply knowledge in real workplace settings, work across cultures, adapt to new technologies and continue learning as industries evolve. This is especially relevant as Singapore’s labour market continues to move towards growth areas such as digitalisation, technology, sustainability, healthcare, business transformation and professional services.

Against this backdrop, Singapore Institute of Management Global Education, or SIM GE, continues to strengthen its role as a private education institution that prepares learners for the demands of today’s workplace and the opportunities of tomorrow’s economy.

Employability begins with industry relevance
For prospective students, one of the biggest considerations when choosing a higher education pathway is whether their studies will remain relevant by the time they graduate. This is particularly important in a job market where roles are changing quickly and where employers increasingly value both technical capability and transferable workplace skills.

SIM GE addresses this by offering a broad range of academic programmes through partnerships with reputable universities from Australia, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. These programmes span disciplines such as business, computing, social sciences, aviation, nursing and other applied fields, giving students access to international curricula while studying in Singapore.

This global education model is particularly relevant for Singapore’s open economy. Graduates entering the workforce are expected to understand local business realities while being able to operate in regional and international contexts. By learning from local and international faculty, and studying alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, SIM students are exposed to global perspectives that can support their workplace readiness.

Career support that connects learning to work
Employability also depends on how students translate classroom learning into career action. At SIM GE, career preparation is supported through Career Connect, which provides career workshops, career guidance, résumé reviews, mock interviews, profiling support, internship and job opportunities, as well as career events such as company visits, networking sessions, career talks and fairs.

This structured support is important because many students do not only need a qualification, they also need guidance in understanding industries, articulating their strengths, preparing for interviews and building professional networks. These practical areas can influence how confidently graduates enter the job market.

Through CareerSense, SIM students can also access an integrated online platform to browse and apply for internships, jobs and career events. This helps students take a more proactive approach to career planning while creating a clearer bridge between academic life and employment opportunities.

Real world exposure through internships and traineeships
One of the strongest contributors to graduate employability is exposure to work before graduation. Internships allow students to understand workplace expectations, test their skills in real business scenarios and build confidence before entering full time employment. SIM GE supports this through internships with a range of employers, from SMEs to multinational corporations. Its Work Integrated Learning for Life initiatives and internship related awards further encourage students to gain practical experience and develop holistically across cognitive, interpersonal and applied skills.

For fresh graduates, SIM’s Graduate Traineeship Programme provides structured traineeship opportunities across industries, typically lasting three to six months. The programme is designed to help graduates gain hands on experience, build workplace confidence and develop industry relevant capabilities as they transition into full time employment. This emphasis on work exposure responds directly to a key concern among prospective students, which is whether they will be ready for employment after graduation. By combining academic learning with career guidance, internships and traineeships, SIM GE helps students build not only credentials but also workplace familiarity.

The value of practical exposure is reflected in the experience of Keisha Shevila, a SIM-University of Wollongong Computer Science graduate who secured a Software Engineer role before completing her degree. In sharing her journey, she credited Career Connect with helping her better understand the job search process and preparing her “more confidently for entering the workforce”.

Building future ready graduates through skills and adaptability
The future of work is increasingly shaped by AI, automation, sustainability and cross functional collaboration. In this environment, students need more than role specific knowledge. They need adaptability, communication skills, critical thinking, creativity, cultural awareness and the confidence to keep learning.

SIM GE’s broader student experience supports this development. Beyond academic programmes, students can participate in more than 70 student clubs and co-curricular activities that build leadership, communication and teamwork skills. The EDGE Award, developed in partnership with employers, recognises students’ cumulative achievements across their learning journey and encourages a more holistic approach to personal and professional growth.

SIM GE’s diverse learning environment also plays an important role. With students from more than 50 nationalities, the campus experience provides opportunities for cultural exchange, collaboration and global awareness. These are qualities that are increasingly valuable in multinational and regional workplaces.

Aligning with Singapore’s skills first economy
Singapore’s workforce strategy continues to place strong emphasis on skills, lifelong learning and adaptability. National reports and government agencies have highlighted rising demand in areas linked to the digital, green and care economies, as well as the importance of AI literacy and transferable skills. This makes higher education choices more consequential. Prospective students are not simply choosing a programme. They are choosing a platform for long term career resilience.

SIM GE’s approach aligns with this direction by combining academic pathways, global university partnerships, employability support, industry exposure and continuous skills development. Its graduate outcomes also reflect this emphasis, with SIM reporting a secured employment rate of 81 per cent based on the Private Education Institution Graduate Employment Survey 2024/2025.

Preparing graduates for Singapore today and tomorrow
Employability in Singapore today is shaped by industry relevance, practical exposure and future ready skills. SIM GE’s proposition sits at the intersection of these priorities. For students, this means access to internationally recognised academic pathways, career services, internships, traineeships, employer engagement, student development opportunities and a diverse campus environment. For employers, it means a pool of graduates who have been encouraged to build both knowledge and workplace ready capabilities.

As prospective students consider their higher learning options, the question is no longer only what they can study. It is also how that education will prepare them for the future of work. For SIM GE graduates, the answer lies in an education experience designed not only to support academic achievement but also to develop employable, adaptable and globally minded individuals ready to contribute to Singapore’s evolving economy.

References

1. The SIM Advantage – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/sim-advantage
2. SIM Career Services – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
3. Achieving the three “Beyond” at individual, industry and institutional levels: Minister Chan Chun Sing at the inaugural SIM Future of Work Series – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/achieving-the-three-beyonds-at-individual-industry-and-institutional-levels
4. How One International Student Graduated Career-Ready: Keisha Shevila’s Journey at SIM – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-one-international-student-graduated-career-ready-keisha-shevila-journey-at-sim
5. Job Vacancies 2025: Labour demand gradually shifting to growth areas as firms adjust hiring plans – https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2026/0320-job-vacancies-report-2025
6. Opening Address by Ms Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State, Ministry of Education for the Launch of the Skills Demand for the Future Economy Report 2025, Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre – https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/speeches/20250122-opening-address-by-ms-gan-siow-huang-minister-of-state-ministry-of-education-for-the-launch-of-the-skills-demand-for-the-future-economy-report-2025-marina-bay-sands-expo-and-convention-centre
7. SDFE 2025 report – https://jobsandskills.skillsfuture.gov.sg/sdfe-2025

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg

By Nitya Chakraborty The opposition INDIA bloc which completed its three years on June 23 is passing through a critical period when the very foundation of this alliance, the strong regional parties, are shattered by defections and splits backed by the ruling party BJP. Mamata Banerjee who gave the name of the alliance at the […]

The article Three Years After Founding, INDIA Bloc Is Facing Uncertainty On Its Future appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The initiative formalises capabilities the Group has been building internally, combining data-led demand identification, integrated distribution, and execution across more than 17,000 O+O stores in Asia and Europe.

Over the past two years, AS Watson has introduced more than 4,800 new brands and brand extensions across its network, underscoring the scale of its brand development activity.

From Incubation to Execution

AS Watson brand lab departs from traditional incubator models by embedding brand development directly within AS Watson’s retail ecosystem.

Rather than incubating brands ahead of their market entry, the platform operates inside the market, using real-time customer data, shopping behaviour and category dynamics to inform development decisions.

Dr Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson, said the model reflects the company’s structural advantage. “We don’t wait for brands to find the market – we build them where demand already exists, and scale them through our ecosystem.”

A Systemised Growth Model

At the core of AS Watson brand lab is an integrated operating model linking insight, creation, distribution, demand activation and scaling.

The platform leverages AS Watson’s over 180 million loyalty members and O+O capabilities to accelerate brand selection and commercial execution.

A Structured Pathway to Scale

Brands within AS Watson brand lab are supported through a structured growth pathway, progressing from early-stage validation to regional scaling and category leadership.

At each stage, brands receive differentiated support across insight, distribution, marketing activation and investment, ensuring resources are focused where the greatest growth potential exists.

This staged approach enables AS Watson to systematically build, scale and prioritise brands, improving success rates while maintaining disciplined capital allocation.

Focus on High-Growth Segments

AS Watson brand lab will prioritise product segments including Asian beauty trends (K-beauty, J-beauty, C-beauty), ingredient-led skincare, health and wellness products and elevated personal care – areas where consumer demand continues to evolve rapidly.

The Group expects the platform to strengthen its ability to build proprietary and exclusive brands while improving speed-to-market and capital efficiency.

Proven Brand Scaling in Action

Early outcomes demonstrate how AS Watson brand lab translates insight into accelerated growth – not only by shaping brand development, but by scaling brands rapidly across markets through its integrated O+O ecosystem.

Across multiple categories and geographies, the platform has enabled brands to move from targeted market entry to multi-market expansion with speed and discipline:

COSRX (K-Beauty)– By combining COSRX’s innovation-led skincare expertise with
AS Watson’s extensive retail footprint and deep consumer insights, the partnership has accelerated international expansion and broadened consumer reach. This illustrates how the platform converts strong brand propositions into sustained category growth across markets.

&honey (J-Beauty) – Leveraging its distinctive product positioning alongside
AS Watson’s regional scale, &honey rapidly expanded beyond its home market, rolling out across multiple Asian markets within a short timeframe. This demonstrates the platform’s ability to systematically scale proven domestic leaders into regional brands.

e.l.f. Cosmetics (US) – Through partnership with AS Watson, e.l.f. has extended its community-led, value-driven model across Europe, translating strong brand engagement into measurable market penetration. The example highlights how consumer-centric brands can be amplified through local market execution at scale.

essence (Germany) – The expansion of essence across multiple markets, including exclusive partnerships, reflects how purpose-driven brands can achieve consistency and reach when supported by integrated distribution and retail insight. This underscores the platform’s ability to build sustained brand relevance and loyalty across diverse markets.

Across these examples, brands have scaled through a consistent model – combining data-led selection, integrated distribution, and coordinated market execution – demonstrating how AS Watson brand lab functions as a repeatable engine for brand growth, from market entry through to regional scale.

Scaling a Repeatable Engine

AS Watson brand lab positions AS Watson to leverage its retail footprint not only as a distribution channel, but as an engine for brand creation and scaling.

The initiative signals a shift from opportunistic brand sourcing towards a structured, repeatable growth model, reinforcing AS Watson’s ability to scale brands with speed, discipline and consistency while driving long-term portfolio value.

AS Watson continues to engage with selected brand partners and emerging brands aligned with its focus areas, with further information available through its official
AS Watson brand lab platform (https://www.aswatson.com/asw-brand-lab)

Hashtag: #ASWatson

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

About AS Watson Group

Established in 1841, AS Watson Group is one of the world’s longest-standing and most recognised retail companies with roots in Asia. Today, the company operates over 17,000 stores across 12 retail brands in 31 markets, employing 130,000 people globally. This makes AS Watson Group the largest international health and beauty retailer in the world.

In the fiscal year 2025, AS Watson Group reported revenue of over US$26 billion. The company’s technology-enabled O+O (Offline plus Online) platforms serve over 6 billion shoppers annually, seamlessly integrating physical and digital retail experiences.

AS Watson Group supported over 180 charitable and non-profit organisations every year, dedicating over 40,000 hours of volunteer work to serve over 370,000 people in need in our operating markets.

AS Watson Group is also a member of the world-renowned multinational conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings Limited, which has four core businesses – ports and related services, retail, infrastructure and telecommunications in over 50 countries.

Please visit www.aswatson.com/our-company/o-and-o-strategy/ for more information.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 June 2026 – Hong Kong employees are moving faster than their organizations when it comes to using AI, creating a growing gap between AI adoption and how work is actually designed, according to Microsoft’s 2026 Work Trend Index. The research warns of a “Transformation Paradox”: while AI use is accelerating across the workforce—with more Frontier Professionals using agents for multi-step workflows and building multi-agent systems, leadership alignment, culture, and operating models are not evolving at the same pace, limiting impact and increasing pressure on employees.

The 2026 Work Trend Index draws on analysis of trillions of anonymized Microsoft 365 productivity signals, combined with survey insights from AI users and perspectives from experts in AI, work, and organizational psychology. The conclusion is consistent: the constraint is no longer what people can do, but how work is structured around them.

• AI is lifting output but not yet transforming organizations. The data shows that AI is already raising the ceiling on individual performance in Hong Kong. A privacy-preserving analysis of more than 100,000 chats in Microsoft 365 Copilot shows that 49% of all conversations support cognitive work—helping workers analyze information, solve problems, evaluate and think creatively. This shift is visible in outcomes: 57% of AI users in Hong Kong say they are producing work they could not have a year ago, rising to 73% among Frontier Professionals, the most advanced AI users in the research.
• The Transformation Paradox reflects the need for systemic change, with the gap more pronounced in Hong Kong than globally. 75% of Hong Kong AI users fear falling behind if they do not adapt quickly, yet 57% say it feels safer to focus on current goals than to redesign work with AI. [i] At the same time, only 19% say their leadership is clearly and consistently aligned on AI, and just 10% say they are rewarded for reinventing work with AI even when results are not immediate, revealing a widening gap between individual adoption and organizational change. [ii]
• As AI and agents take on more execution, human value is shifting rather than diminishing. When asked which skills matter most as AI becomes more embedded in work, Hong Kong AI users ranked quality control of AI output (48%) and critical thinking (42%) at the top, underscoring that AI is redesigning work, not replacing people.

From Using AI to Being Frontier Professionals Who Refuse to Outsource Thinking
The Work Trend Index identifies the rise of Frontier Firms—organizations that deliberately rebuild their operating models around human‑agent collaboration, rather than layering AI onto existing ways of working.

Realizing this shift requires transformation at both the individual and organizational level. The research outlines four modes of human-AI collaboration to help employees take the first step toward becoming Frontier Professionals, before progressing to designing agentic workflows:

• Delegate execution—Employees hand off routine or repeatable tasks to AI to gain speed and scale, while retaining responsibility for the outcome.
• Ask for information—Employees turn to AI for context, clarification, or insight when they need to quickly get up to speed.
• Collaborate on reasoning—People work alongside AI to analyze information, test ideas, and solve problems, using AI as a thought partner rather than a shortcut.
• Explore new possibilities—AI is used to explore open‑ended questions, reframe problems, and surface options when the path forward is not yet clear.

These patterns matter because Frontier Firms do not aim to maximize AI use everywhere. Instead, they intentionally match the right level of human involvement to the outcome, enabling speed without sacrificing quality or accountability.

Leadership and Culture Are the Real Multipliers
The research makes clear that technology alone is not the differentiator, but by how organizations lead, operate, and evolve. Organizational factors, including culture, manager support, and talent practices, account for more than twice the AI impact of individual mindset and behavior. In Hong Kong, Frontier Professionals are significantly more likely to say their managers set clear quality standards for AI work[iii], create space for experimentation[iv], and encourage more ambitious redesign of work[v].

“This is the Transformation Paradox facing Hong Kong today,” said Leo Liu, General Manager of Microsoft Hong Kong and Macau. “AI adoption is moving fast on the ground, but many organizations are still trying to fit it into old operating models. To unlock real value, leaders must move beyond pilots and productivity gains, and intentionally redesign how work gets done—how teams collaborate, how managers lead, and how success is measured.”

Microsoft is also announcing the launch of Copilot Cowork, designed to support this shift toward workflow redesign. Built on Microsoft’s multi-model approach, this agentic system enables long-running tasks across multiple tools, with usage-based pricing, cost management, and governance capabilities to balance quality, performance, and cost, and helps organizations run complex workflows more efficiently at scale.

Microsoft brings this perspective as Customer Zero, applying the same principles internally to redesign workflows, build human‑agent teams, and embed continuous learning into everyday work. Using Copilot Studio and Microsoft Foundry, Microsoft transformed its “Ask Microsoft” web agent from a standalone chatbot into a multi‑agent system that routes conversations more effectively and supports more dynamic, context‑aware interactions. This shift improves how customer intent is understood and addressed, while steering queries to the right resources or teams and allowing sales to focus on higher‑value, high‑intent engagement.

The solution delivered measurable business impact across customer engagement and operational efficiency, achieving up to 61% lower response latency and 70% fewer human escalations. Users who engaged with the agent were 10 times more likely to sign up for services and drove a 16% increase in product trial initiations.

“Inside Microsoft, we’ve learned that AI transformation is not a tooling exercise. It’s an operating model shift,” said Lorraine Bardeen, Corporate Vice President, MCAPS AI Transformation, Microsoft. “When leaders clarify how humans and agents work together, set standards for quality and judgment, and create room to experiment, organizations move faster and learn faster. That’s what separates Frontier Firms from everyone else.”

“We are entering a new era of work, where the traditional value formula is being rewritten,” said Nancy Wang, Head of LinkedIn Greater China. “We call it the ‘new math of work’—a concept introduced in LinkedIn’s new book, Open to Work. The people and organizations that emerge strongest will be those who use the time freed up by AI to build work around what’s actually harder to automate—the specific, contextual, human judgment that no tool can fully replicate, because no tool has lived what you’ve lived or knows what you know.”

The message of the 2026 Work Trend Index is clear: access to AI will soon be table stakes. How work is designed around it will define the next generation of competitive advantage for Hong Kong organizations. For more insights, read the 2026 Work Trend Index Report.

Hashtag: #Microsoft

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About Microsoft

Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

By Arun Srivastava The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) strategy of fracturing regional parties serves as a quaternary-track political manoeuvre designed to secure long-term constitutional dominance, dismantle the opposition architecture INDIA bloc, give a shape to its long cherished desire to create Bharat free of active opposition and finally, consolidating its position in 2029 and sweeping […]

The article BJP Top Brass’s Three-Year Plan To Achieve ‘One-Party, One-Nation’ Goal appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

By T N Ashok On a humid June morning in India’s capital, the birthday wishes began arriving before sunrise. Students posted videos on Instagram. Party workers unfurled banners across small towns. Political allies issued carefully worded messages of solidarity. Critics, never far behind, reminded the nation of his electoral defeats, his verbal missteps and the […]

The article The Twists And Turns In Rahul Gandhi’s 22 Year Old Political Journey appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

As a key gateway connecting China with global markets, Hong Kong serves as an important benchmark for the premium automotive industry and a strategic platform for luxury brands expanding internationally. Launching the global strategy for the 9-Series in Hong Kong marks a significant new chapter in ZEEKR’s growth across the global premium new energy vehicle market.

800,000 Deliveries Milestone Underscores ZEEKR’s Global Growth Momentum

Strong market performance continues to support ZEEKR’s expansion in the global premium new energy vehicle segment. As of June 16, 2026, ZEEKR’s cumulative global deliveries officially exceeded 800,000 vehicles, marking a major milestone for the brand.

In Hong Kong, ZEEKR has maintained strong momentum. From January to May 2026, ZEEKR captured a 40.7% market share of Hong Kong’s luxury vehicle segment, ranking first among all luxury automotive brands. The ZEEKR 009 ranked as Hong Kong’s best-selling luxury MPV, while the ZEEKR 7X became the city’s best-selling luxury SUV.

Across key international markets, ZEEKR continues to achieve strong results. In Thailand, the brand was the best-selling luxury pure-electric MPV brand in 2025 and retained its leadership position from January to May 2026. In Malaysia, ZEEKR ranked No.1 among luxury pure-electric brands during the same period, with the ZEEKR 7X leading the luxury electric SUV category and the ZEEKR 009 remaining the top-selling luxury electric MPV. In Australia, ZEEKR continued to lead the luxury SUV segment priced above AUD 65,000 from January to May. In Mexico, the ZEEKR 7X secured the monthly luxury EV sales title in both April and May.

Dual Flagship 9-Series Models Showcase ZEEKR’s Technology-Luxury Vision

At this year’s expo, ZEEKR is showcasing five models spanning family mobility, executive transportation and flagship luxury, highlighting the breadth of its premium product portfolio.

The ZEEKR 9X, ZEEKR’s new global flagship of ultra-luxury SUV, is built on the SEA-S architecture and features a 900V high-performance silicon carbide electric drive system delivering more than 1,030 kW of maximum power. Four integrated safety structures combined with extensive use of 2,000 MPa ultra-high-strength steel contribute to a torsional rigidity rating of 41,600 N·m/deg, setting a new benchmark for safety in the hybrid SUV segment. The ZEEKR 9X recently opened pre-sales in the Middle East, where it has received strong market interest. The model is scheduled to expand into key markets across Latin America, Central Asia and Europe.

The ZEEKR 009 Grand, the brand’s global ultra-luxury four-seater flagship MPV, features a 720-degree comprehensive safety architecture and the world’s first integrated die-cast C-ring cabin structure, delivering segment-leading rear-seat protection. The second row is equipped with two ultra-soft aniline leather executive seats featuring 20 massage points and an industry-leading seven-zone graphene heating system, creating an exceptional luxury experience for rear passengers. The right-hand-drive version of the ZEEKR 009 Grand is scheduled to launch in Hong Kong in the fourth quarter of 2026.

The ZEEKR 8X, a super hybrid high-performance flagship SUV, also makes its Hong Kong debut. Built on the SEA-S Super Hybrid Architecture, the ZEEKR 8X delivers a flagship experience across four key dimensions: performance, intelligence, safety and comfort.

Expanding Global Capabilities and Opening a New Chapter of Technology Luxury

As its product lineup continues to grow and its international footprint expands, ZEEKR is accelerating the development of a comprehensive global operating system spanning R&D, product planning, market operations and customer services. Today, ZEEKR’s overseas business covers more than 60 major cities worldwide with a rapidly growing global user base.

As the global automotive industry accelerates toward electrification and intelligent mobility, the luxury vehicle market is entering a new era in which technological innovation is redefining the premium experience. Leveraging Hong Kong’s position as a globally connected international hub, ZEEKR will continue to deepen its global presence and advance the evolution of luxury through innovation. Through cutting-edge technologies, exceptional products and comprehensive lifecycle services, ZEEKR is committed to delivering a distinctive technology-luxury mobility experience for customers around the world.

Hashtag: #ZEEKR

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About Zeekr

Zeekr is the global luxury electric vehicle technology brand from Geely Auto Group. Utilizing advanced software-defined architectures and cutting-edge propulsion technologies, Zeekr is dedicated to creating a fully integrated user ecosystem with innovation at its core.

At SIM Global Education (SIM GE), campus life is designed to complement academic learning by helping students develop networks, soft skills, career awareness and a stronger sense of community. SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse environment aim to equip students with an all-rounded global education, while student life, career development and networking activities help students build competencies needed to thrive in the real world.

This is increasingly important in higher education. UNESCO’s International Institute for Higher Education notes that student wellbeing is critical to academic success and personal development, and that inadequate support can affect learning outcomes, career readiness and students’ ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

Addressing student concerns beyond the classroom
Students exploring higher education often face several practical concerns. They may wonder whether they will make friends, whether they will be supported if they struggle, whether they will have opportunities to develop leadership skills, and whether they can access career guidance before entering the workforce.

SIM GE addresses these concerns through a campus ecosystem that combines student clubs, leadership development, peer support, wellbeing programmes and career services. Through Project 1095, SIM GE highlights that education extends beyond books, exams and qualifications, encompassing knowledge, skills and activities both inside and outside the classroom. This approach supports students who want a fuller higher education experience to grow personally, socially and professionally.

Building networks through clubs and co-curricular activities
Student clubs and co-curricular activities are among the first ways SIM GE students build connections on campus. SIM offers nearly 80 student clubs across areas such as arts and culture, international student clubs, student councils, special interest groups, sports and fitness. These activities allow students to broaden their interests, discover new talents and interact with peers beyond their academic programmes.

For students, these communities can make networking feel more natural. Instead of viewing networking only as a formal career activity, students can begin by working with peers on events, competitions, club projects and leadership initiatives. These experiences help students develop communication, teamwork, confidence and relationship-building skills that are valuable in both campus life and the workplace.

Developing leadership and workplace-ready skills
Leadership opportunities are another important part of the SIM GE student experience. Project 1095 states that SIM aims to prepare every student to be a leader, with opportunities ranging from leadership positions in clubs, to workshops that help students take charge of their learning journey.

These experiences are relevant to students who want to strengthen their employability before graduation. By organising activities, leading teams, managing projects and engaging with different student groups, students can develop confidence and practical skills that support their future careers. Such skills are increasingly valued by employers. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2025 report identifies skills such as analytical thinking, resilience, flexibility, agility, leadership and social influence as important for the future workforce.

Connecting students with career guidance and industry networks
For students seeking more direct career support, SIM Career Connect helps students develop a competitive edge, build industry networks and professional connections, and align their career aspirations with real-world opportunities. This is a key part of helping students transition from academic learning to career readiness. Through career guidance, networking opportunities and employer engagement, students can better understand industry expectations and explore potential career pathways.

SIM’s Employer Engagement team also works with industry partners to connect employers with SIM GE students, supporting employers in finding the right fit from its pool of talent, and provides. For students, this access to industry networks can help reduce uncertainty about life after graduation. It also gives them opportunities to gain exposure to professional environments, employer expectations and potential career directions while still studying.

The role of mentoring in student career development
Mentoring and professional guidance are important because students often need perspective as much as information. Research on employability-oriented higher education programmes has highlighted that higher education has increasingly focused on developing students’ employability competences through mentoring programmes.

Within SIM GE’s broader campus life and career ecosystem, students can connect with peers, student leaders, career advisors, employers and industry opportunities. These touchpoints help students build confidence, ask the right questions, learn from others’ experiences and make more informed decisions about their future.

Helping students make a more confident higher education choice
As students consider their higher education options, many are looking for more than a classroom experience. They want to know whether they will be supported, whether they can build friendships, whether they will have access to career resources, and whether they can connect with people who can help them understand the world of work. At SIM Global Education, student life plays an important role in addressing these concerns. Through clubs, co-curricular activities, student leadership, peer support, wellbeing services, career guidance and employer engagement, SIM GE provides students with opportunities to build meaningful connections and develop future-ready skills.

For students choosing their next step in higher education, these experiences can make a significant difference. They help you move from uncertainty to confidence, from participation to leadership, and from academic learning to stronger career readiness.

Reference

1. SIM Global Education – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/sim-ge
2. New insights on countries’ objectives to support student well-being in higher education – https://www.iesalc.unesco.org/en/articles/new-insights-countries-objectives-support-student-well-being-higher-education
3. Project1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
4. Future of Job Report – https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/
5. SIM Career Service – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
6. Measuring mentoring in employability-oriented higher education programs: scale development and validation – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10170025/
7. Wellness and Counselling – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/student-care

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

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About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg

Advancement in international reputation, employer reputation, and global engagement

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 June 2026 – The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has been ranked 18^th globally in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2027, climbing 14 places from 32^nd in the previous year and entering the global top 20 for the first time. This achievement reflects CUHK’s steady progress in the global higher education landscape, with notable improvements across multiple indicators, including employer reputation, international research network, international student ratio, and faculty student ratio. The University once again achieved a full score in the international faculty ratio, reinforcing its position as a leading research university in Asia with global recognition.

Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, CUHK’s Vice-Chancellor and President, said: “CUHK’s entry into the global top 20 marks a significant milestone in the University’s development and stands as a testament to the collective efforts of our faculty, students, alumni, and partners over the years. Rooted in Hong Kong, China’s most international city, CUHK is committed to the education of outstanding students and scholars from across the globe with a dynamic environment that integrates academic excellence, cultural diversity, and innovation. The notable rise in employer reputation underscores the effectiveness of CUHK’s collegiate system and liberal arts education, combined with the strengths of a research university. We are dedicated to nurturing a new generation of leaders with independent thinking, cross-cultural perspectives and a strong sense of social responsibility, enabling them to excel across diverse fields. CUHK is also a global hub for academic excellence that brings together top scholars from around the world. The full score in the international faculty ratio once again highlights our sustained strength in attracting world-class talent.”

“Looking ahead, with the forthcoming launch of the CUHK Strategic Plan 2026–2030, we will deepen our strategic partnerships with leading universities, industries, and government organisations. By advancing impactful research and knowledge transfer, we aim to collaborate in addressing the common challenges facing humanity. We extend our sincere gratitude to the HKSAR Government, our nation and partners across sectors for their steadfast support, and warmly invite outstanding students, scholars, and collaborators from around the world to join us in shaping the next chapter of higher education.”

The 2027 rankings assessed the performance of over 1,500 universities worldwide. CUHK showed substantial improvement across several indicators, including:

• Rising 14 places to 18^th globally, marking a historic high for CUHK;
• Ranking second in Hong Kong in academic reputation, employer reputation, employment outcomes and sustainability;
• Recording a notable rise in employer reputation, reflecting growing recognition among global employers of the professional competence and leadership potential of CUHK graduates;
• Achieving full score in the international faculty ratio once again, highlighting the University’s strength in attracting top academic talent from around the world;
• Recording significant improvements in indicators such as international research network, international student ratio, and faculty student ratio, reflecting CUHK’s continued progress in internationalisation and global engagement, as well as its ongoing efforts to enhance teaching support and the student learning experience.

This year’s ranking represents CUHK’s best performance since the introduction of the QS World University Rankings in 2010. Building on this milestone, the University will continue to enhance the quality of teaching and learning, strengthen its global academic networks and research impact, to nurture outstanding talent for China and the international community.

For QS World University Rankings 2027, please click here for more details.
Hashtag: #CUHK #QS #Rankings

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https://www.linkedin.com/school/13045
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About The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Founded in 1963, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a leading comprehensive research university with a global reputation and world-leading rankings. Located in the heart of Asia, CUHK has a vision and a mission to combine tradition with modernity, and to bring together China and the West. Under the University’s unique collegiate system, the programmes and activities offered by its nine colleges complement the formal curricula by delivering whole-person education and pastoral care. The University has eight faculties: Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Science. Together with the Graduate School, the University offers over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. All faculties are actively engaged in research in a wide range of disciplines, with an array of research institutes and research centres specialising in interdisciplinary research of the highest quality.

Luvina Software Singapore officially launches as a trusted technology partner for AI-powered transformation and enterprise modernisation across APAC

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 June 2026 – After more than two decades of delivering enterprise-grade software engineering and digital transformation solutions to multinational corporations and leading Japanese enterprises, Luvina Software Singapore today officially launches its operations in Singapore, marking a significant milestone in its global growth strategy and reinforcing the Republic’s role as a regional hub for advanced technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation.

Established as a strategic joint venture between Luvina Software Vietnam and Singapore-based consulting firm GleamCore, Luvina Software Singapore aims to serve as a trusted gateway for organisations seeking high-quality, scalable and cost-efficient digital transformation solutions across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. The official inauguration was commemorated in the presence of Mr Cao Xuan Thang, Commercial Counsellor and Head of the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore, alongside other senior representatives from the Embassy of Vietnam in Singapore, including senior diplomatic and trade officials, as well as strategic partners, enterprise leaders and key stakeholders from Singapore’s technology ecosystem.

The Singapore office represents a strategic move to bridge a growing gap in the digital economy, where organisations are under mounting pressure to modernise legacy systems, adopt AI and scale technological capabilities amid rising costs and talent shortages.

As businesses worldwide accelerate digitalisation, Singapore has emerged as one of the world’s most trusted technology ecosystems and a strategic gateway between East and West, with strong global connectivity, a highly developed regulatory environment and growing leadership in AI and Smart Nation initiatives.

Luvina Software’s decision to establish a presence in Singapore comes amid growing demand for trusted technology partners capable of delivering measurable outcomes. While many businesses prioritise digital transformation, organisations continue to face barriers including high implementation costs, delivery quality consistency, fragmented technology ecosystems and shortages in specialised engineering talent.

Singapore’s investments into frontier technologies, including more than S$1 billion committed towards National AI Research & Development between 2025 and 2030, further reinforce the nation’s position as a trusted global AI hub and a launchpad for regional and international expansion.

Founded in 2004 in Hanoi, Vietnam, Luvina Software has grown into a globally trusted software engineering company with over 750 employees, 1,000+ projects delivered, and more than 110 enterprise clients worldwide across sectors including insurance, banking, healthcare, manufacturing and retail. Impressively, 95% of its clients have remained with the company for at least a decade, underscoring its longstanding reputation for consistency, quality and reliability.

Luvina Software also operates delivery centres in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, alongside international footprints in Japan, the United States and now Singapore, enabling seamless hybrid and offshore delivery models for clients across global markets.

Its long-standing experience serving discerning Japanese corporations has shaped a delivery philosophy rooted in precision, accountability and rigorous governance, supported by globally recognised certifications including ISO 27001 and CMMI Level 3 for both Services and Development.

At the heart of Luvina Software Singapore’s proposition is a unique operating model that combines Singapore-based strategic advisory and governance with Vietnam’s large-scale engineering capability, allowing enterprises to modernise systems and accelerate innovation without compromising quality or control.

The company’s core focus areas include:

• AI-Powered Transformation & Intelligent Solution Engineering
• Enterprise Systems Modernisation & Managed Business Platforms
• High-Performance Engineering Capacity Enablement

Through its AI-enabled Offshore Development Centre (ODC) model, Luvina integrates AI-assisted software engineering into software planning, coding, testing and deployment, helping organisations accelerate delivery timelines, reduce inefficiencies and improve operational scalability while maintaining strict governance and quality assurance.

Rather than merely acting as a software vendor, Luvina positions itself as a long-term transformation partner, offering end-to-end accountability from technology strategy and implementation to long-term support and optimisation.

As part of its Singapore growth strategy, Luvina Software Singapore intends to work closely with solution providers, system integrators, professional service firms, venture capital and private equity firms, as well as enterprises seeking to co-develop scalable digital products for regional and international markets.

The company has already secured momentum in the Singapore market, having acquired more than a dozen local projects, with plans to further expand its presence across Southeast Asia, Australia and Europe in subsequent phases of growth.

Among its growing portfolio of clients are Nomura Research Institute Ltd., Japan’s largest economic research, management consulting and IT systems integration firm; CRESCO Ltd., a prominent Japanese IT systems integrator and software development company; and CRESCO Vietnam Co. Ltd., the Vietnam subsidiary of the CRESCO Group providing offshore development and IT solutions for Japanese enterprises. The portfolio also included Soliton Systems K.K., a specialist in cybersecurity, identity management, and secure access technologies, reinforcing Luvina Software Singapore’s reputation as a trusted technology partner for enterprise transformation and high-performance software delivery.

Mr Le Quang Luong, Co-Founder and CEO of Luvina Software, said, “Singapore represents not only a new market for us but it’s also a strategic gateway for how we intend to co-create the future of enterprise technology across the region. As organisations face mounting pressure to modernise, adopt AI and scale with confidence, businesses do not simply need more technology vendors; they need trusted partners who can bridge strategy, execution and measurable outcomes.”

“Through Luvina Software Singapore, we bring together Singapore’s global connectivity and governance strengths, Vietnam’s engineering excellence, and Japan’s deeply rooted standards of quality and reliability to help organisations transform with greater speed, confidence and accountability. Ultimately, we are here to turn complex work into outcomes businesses can count on,” added Mr Ethan Lim, CEO of Luvina Software Singapore.

Looking ahead, Luvina Software Singapore intends to deepen its role in helping enterprises modernise legacy systems, accelerate AI adoption and co-develop scalable digital solutions that can be commercialised globally, reinforcing Singapore’s role as a strategic innovation hub for the region.

For more information, please visit: www.luvina.net

Hashtag: #LuvinaSoftware #LuvinaSoftwareSingapore #AI #Launch #DigitalInnovation #Software #Singapore #Vietnam

https://luvina.net/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/luvina-software-outsourcing/
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Luvina Software Singapore

Luvina Software Singapore is the Singapore arm of Luvina Software, a Vietnam-founded enterprise software engineering and digital transformation company with more than 20 years of experience serving multinational corporations and leading Japanese enterprises. Established as a strategic gateway to the Asia Pacific market, Luvina Software Singapore provides AI-powered digital transformation, enterprise systems modernisation, cloud engineering, managed services and high-performance engineering capacity enablement.

Combining Singapore-based strategic advisory and governance with Vietnam’s engineering excellence, Luvina Software Singapore helps businesses accelerate innovation, modernise systems and scale with confidence.

Hashtag: #SEASIA26

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About Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia

Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia is a trade event where buyers from across Asia and industry suppliers from around the world come together to network and conduct business in the lucrative Asian market. The event is produced by Diversified and takes place annually in Asia. SeafoodSource is the exposition’s official media covering industry news year-round.

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About Diversified

Diversified is a global B2B events and media company that strengthens business communities by fostering a space, in person and online, for professionals and businesses to connect and grow. The company serves as a trusted partner across several industries including active lifestyle, business management, clean energy, commercial marine, healthcare, seafood, technology and more. The company’s global seafood portfolio of expositions and media includes Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America, Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global, Seafood Expo Asia/Seafood Processing Asia and SeafoodSource.com. Established in 1949 and headquartered in Portland, Maine, the global company has divisions and offices around the world in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. Diversified is a third-generation, family-owned business. For more information, visit: www.divcom.com.

The Essential Clutch – Limited Edition is made from cactus leather, a plant-based vegan leather, with 100% recycled fabrics used for lining, straps, and protective padding, consistent with the materials across GLM’s collection. The interior lining, an exclusive Art Deco print, was designed to align with the Microsoft Surface Laptop, 13.8-inch, offering device owners a complementary piece that stands on its own as a considered accessory. As a limited-edition release, the restricted quantities reflect both the seasonal nature of the colorway and the brand’s broader commitment to low-waste production. The clutch is designed to carry necessary technology without bulk, supporting commutes, office environments, evening engagements, and travel days that require consolidation. It can be worn on its own or nested inside a larger tote to distribute weight across bags.

The Essential Clutch joins GLM’s existing range of slim laptop bags, which launched in the U.S. earlier this year. GLM was founded by Candina Weston, who brings more than 25 years of experience across technology, the PC industry, retail, marketing, and operations, including senior leadership roles in structured technology environments and brand-led businesses. This background informs the brand’s focus on real-world professional carry needs: device protection, a slim and structured silhouette, and a design philosophy that treats laptop carry as a daily requirement rather than purely functional.

GLM identifies its target audience as professionals across industries who care about style and whose daily routines involve movement.

“The Essential Clutch – Limited Edition is a natural extension of what GLM is built on,” said founder Candina Weston. “We designed it to sit alongside the devices people already carry, while keeping the same focus on slim, considered design that runs through the rest of the collection.” GLM currently serves customers in the United States and Singapore, with plans to expand into additional international markets within the next 12 months.Hashtag: #GLM

https://atelierglm.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/atelier-glm
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About GLM

GLM designs slim laptop bags for professionals who carry technology as part of daily work and travel. Founded by Candina Weston, who brings over 25 years of experience across the PC industry, retail, and operations in the US, Europe, and Asia, the company produces laptop bags in multiple styles using plant-based vegan leather and recycled fabrics, with a focus on integrating laptop carry into fashion-led design. GLM is a Designed for Microsoft Surface Partner.