News related to
next

Partnership pairs international leading longevity institution with HSBC’ to build the region’s first integrated “health and wealth” ecosystem for high‑net‑worth families.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 May 2026 – Humansa, international leading integrated longevity institution and a premier destination for preventative healthcare, today announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) and HSBC Life (International) Limited. This strategic collaboration aims to integrate advanced health optimisation with financial and insurance services, redefining how clients manage both their healthspan in Hong Kong and across the region.

A unified vision: healthspan as a core family asset

In a city renowned for its financial sophistication, the HSBC x Humansa alliance introduces a new paradigm: treating healthspan as a critical component of the modern family portfolio. As longevity science advances and demand for preventative healthcare accelerates, the partnership establishes a pioneering framework for an integrated “health and wealth” ecosystem designed specifically for high‑net‑worth and ultra‑high‑net‑worth clients.

Research from the Stanford Center on Longevity and other leading institutions highlights that many people in developed markets may live close to 100 years, making sustained cognitive and physical performance essential for a life of purpose and fulfilment. Simultaneously, global wealth reports show that affluent families are shifting spending from status goods toward wellness and longevity, and expect their financial partners to support this transition.

Moving beyond siloed services that treat health, wealth and insurance separately, Humansa contributes clinical excellence and geroscience‑based, data‑driven insights, while HSBC brings its wealth and insurance capabilities and a long‑term commitment to Asia as the world’s next major cross‑border wealth hub. Together, the parties aim to build the specialised infrastructure needed to manage health as a high‑value, appreciating asset over a 100‑year life.

Research‑driven excellence for high‑net‑worth clients

Humansa will lead the exploration of specialised longevity programs and dedicated physical spaces that combine clinical precision, behavioural coaching, and premium client experiences tailored to HSBC’s clients. By merging Humansa’s geroscience expertise with HSBC’s global wealth management reach and HSBC Life’s insurance capabilities, the partnership seeks to ensure that clients living longer – and better, at every stage of life.

Directives of the strategic collaboration: three pillars of “Longevity as an Asset”

Under the terms of the MoU, the parties have committed to three key pillars:

Longevity hubs and programs for HSBC clients – Explore the development of flagship “Longevity as an Asset” hubs and programs, where HSBC high-net-worth clients can access Humansa’s advanced diagnostics, health assessments and geroscience‑based services designed to preserve and grow their healthspan capital.

Integrated health‑wealth and insurance advisory – Pilot models where Humansa’s health insights can complement HSBC’s wealth and HSBC Life’s insurance advisory, enabling clients to align wealth management protection and succession strategies with their projected healthspan and personal goals.

Thought leadership and ecosystem building – Co‑create thought‑leadership platforms including research, client forums and CEO‑level dialogues in Hong Kong and other regional hubs to advance understanding of the economics of a 100‑year life, positioning Hong Kong at the forefront of longevity‑driven innovation.

These pillars provide a structured roadmap for turning the idea of “longevity as an asset” into practical offerings and experiences for clients across Asia.

“Humansa was founded on a simple belief: in a 100‑year life, healthspan is the most under‑managed asset on the family balance sheet,” said Don So, Chief Executive Officer of Humansa. “By joining forces with HSBC and HSBC Life, we are building the infrastructure that clients need to measure, protect and grow that asset – with clinical rigour, personalised programs and experiences that match the sophistication of their financial lives.

“Health, wealth and protection are deeply interconnected and shouldn’t be treated in isolation. As people live longer and spend more years beyond working life, they need trusted solutions to protect, grow and pass on their wealth — especially in an increasingly uncertain macro environment. Our partnership with Humansa brings together the best of both organisations to offer high net worth customers a seamless, one-stop health and wealth management solution.” said Daisy Tsang, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Life Hong Kong and Macau.

“People are living longer, and that changes what ‘wealth planning’ really means. Our partnership with Humansa will help our clients treat healthspan as a core family asset, alongside their financial wealth, so they can stay well, stay active and keep their options open over a longer life. By combining Humansa’s longevity expertise with HSBC’s wealth capabilities, we’ll explore new ways to deliver a premium client experience that supports wellbeing and long-term resilience, setting a new standard for how high‑net‑worth families live well across generations.” said Brian Hui, Chief Customer Officer, Retail Banking and Wealth Management, HSBC Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #Humansa

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

About Humansa

Humansa is a leading healthcare and wellness brand dedicated to extending the human healthspan through evidence-based preventative medicine, advanced diagnostics and holistic lifestyle solutions. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Hong Kong, Humansa operates an extensive network of centres, offering services that span health assessments, medical services, restorative therapies, wellness coaching and skin aesthetics in a refined, hospitality-inspired environment.

About HSBC and HSBC Life

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited is the founding member of the HSBC Group and one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations, serving customers across Asia and beyond. HSBC Life (International) Limited is a leading life insurance company, offering a comprehensive range of protection and savings solutions to individuals and corporations across the region. Together, they provide integrated banking, wealth and insurance services designed to meet the evolving financial and lifestyle needs of their clients.

By Dr. Gyan Pathak With the publication of the final rules under the Code on Wages, 2019 and Industrial Relations Code, 2020 on Friday, May 8, 2026, the Union Government of India has fully operationalized them. Apart from these, the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment has also notified the Model Standing Orders, 2026, for […]

The article India Operationalises New Labour Codes On Wages And Industrial Relations appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The agreements were signed at the Vietnam–India Business Forum, held as part of the State visit of General Secretary and President To Lam to India, in the presence of General Secretary and President To Lam and Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis.

The partnerships are expected to open direct access channels to all customer segments, stimulate travel demand and experiential tourism, and ultimately position Vietnam as a “preferred destination” for India’s 1.47 billion people.

Representing India are three of the country’s most influential and trusted travel distribution channels: Thomas Cook India, SOTC Travel, and MakeMyTrip. Thomas Cook India has strong expertise in group travel, corporate travel, and large-scale MICE tourism. SOTC Travel is well known for family vacations, group tours, and mid- to high-end leisure travel. Meanwhile, MakeMyTrip, India’s leading online travel platform, has a strong advantage in reaching younger travelers, independent tourists, and digitally-driven booking behaviors.

Representing Vietnam is Vinpearl, the country’s leading hospitality, tourism, and entertainment brand, operating nearly 60 properties nationwide. Its diverse five-star “all-in-one” ecosystem offers accommodation, shopping, dining, entertainment, golf, and MICE services, making it particularly well-suited to the travel preferences of Indian visitors, including large group travel, multi-generational family vacations, and experience-rich holidays.

Through these partnerships, the parties aim to maximize each other’s strengths, enhance tourism development capabilities, and shape tailored travel products, gradually positioning Vietnam as a “preferred destination” for Indian travelers in the near future.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Ngo Thi Huong, CEO of Vinpearl, said: “India is one of the key markets in Vinpearl’s international expansion strategy. Through partnerships with leading industry players, we are not only broadening our market reach but also proactively developing products tailored to each customer segment. Vinpearl aims to strengthen its presence in the Indian market while contributing to positioning Vietnam as an attractive and distinctive destination on the global tourism map.”

Mr. Anubhav Bansal, Vice President of MakeMyTrip and representative of the three Indian partners, added: “Vinpearl operates one of the region’s leading integrated tourism and hospitality ecosystems, with a scale, product diversity, and destination experience portfolio that increasingly align with the preferences of Indian travelers. We believe Vinpearl is playing an important role in positioning Vietnam as an attractive destination for this market. Combined with the extensive distribution strengths of both sides, this partnership is expected to significantly boost Indian tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the coming years.”

India is currently the world’s most populous country, with 1.47 billion people. The country’s rapidly expanding middle class is driving a strong surge in demand for international travel.

Recognizing the strategic importance of the Indian market, Vinpearl has not only leveraged its scale and integrated “all-in-one” ecosystem but has also continuously developed specialized offerings for Indian travelers, including luxury wedding tourism, MICE travel, multi-generational family holidays, group trips, and couple getaways. In 2025, the number of Indian guests staying within the Vinpearl system surged by a record 402% year-on-year, followed by a further 335% increase during the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year.

The signing of MoUs with these three major market access partners marks the next step in Vinpearl’s strategy to sustainably grow its visitor base from the 1.47 billion-population Indian market, while also helping position Vietnam as a “preferred destination” for Indian travelers.

Hashtag: #Vinpearl

https://vinpearl.com/en

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

About Vinpearl

Vinpearl is Vietnam’s leading hospitality, tourism, and entertainment brand, currently operating 60 properties across 20 provinces and cities nationwide. Its ecosystem includes a network of five-star hotels and resorts in 35 provinces and cities with more than 17,300 rooms; 15 VinWonders theme parks offering attractions for all age groups; six world-class golf courses; and three international-standard convention centers and theaters under the VinPalace brand. The ecosystem also features two semi-wildlife conservation and care parks, an equestrian academy, and spectacular multi-million-dollar live performance shows in destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, attracting millions of visitors each year.

About Thomas Cook India

Founded in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) is one of India’s leading omnichannel travel and tourism groups, operating across foreign exchange, corporate travel, MICE, leisure travel, and value-added services.

TCIL owns and operates several major B2C and B2B brands, including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Sterling Holiday Resorts, Asian Trails, and Desert Adventures. The group has a presence in 28 countries across five continents and is one of the largest travel service networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region.

About SOTC Travel

Established in 1949, SOTC Travel is one of India’s oldest and most reputable travel and tourism brands. The company is part of Fairfax Financial Holdings through Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL).

Operating through an omnichannel model, SOTC offers a wide range of services across leisure travel, incentive travel, and corporate travel. With more than 75 years of experience, SOTC has served millions of travelers across destinations worldwide and is recognized for its deep understanding of Indian travelers’ preferences and behaviors.

About MakeMyTrip

MakeMyTrip is India’s leading online travel booking platform, holding a dominant position in flight bookings, hotel reservations, and travel packages. With tens of millions of users and a strong digital ecosystem, MakeMyTrip covers the entire customer journey while maintaining a strong advantage in reaching younger travelers and independent tourists.

As Gulf markets accelerate toward smart and sustainable mobility, VinFast is expanding its EV presence in the Middle East with technology-focused products, connected vehicle capabilities, and long-term ownership solutions.

DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 May 2026 – The Middle East is increasingly emerging as one of the next major battlegrounds for global electric vehicle brands, particularly as younger consumers across Gulf countries show rising interest in smart, technology-focused mobility solutions that combine premium specifications with advanced software and digital experiences. That shift has opened the door for newer EV manufacturers to compete alongside more established automotive brands.

The opportunity reflects larger market dynamics already transforming the region. Asian EV brands have rapidly expanded their footprint across Gulf countries in recent years, supported by growing demand for feature-rich vehicles, manufacturing scale advantages, and increasingly competitive pricing.

Against that backdrop, VinFast is positioning itself as part of a broader transformation reshaping the automotive landscape across the region. As governments accelerate investments in renewable energy, charging infrastructure, and smart city development, the transition toward electric mobility is gaining momentum across the Gulf.

For VinFast, the Middle East represents a strategic growth market within its wider international expansion plan. The company has been strengthening its presence with the VF 8 electric SUV, targeting consumers seeking a combination of advanced technology, premium features, and long-term ownership value.

VinFast’s broader strategy aligns closely with those changing consumer expectations. Rather than operating solely as a conventional carmaker, the company is developing a vertically integrated EV ecosystem that combines intelligent software, connected services, and smart manufacturing capabilities.

Globally, VinFast has delivered more than 400,000 vehicles and accumulated several years of real-world driving data. That foundation has supported the development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, connected vehicle technologies, and over-the-air software capabilities designed to continuously improve the ownership experience.

In the Middle East market, the VF 8 is positioned around technology, comfort, and practicality for regional driving conditions. The all-electric SUV offers dual-motor all-wheel drive capability with up to 402 horsepower in the Plus variant and a driving range of up to 493 km on a full charge under the NEDC standard.

Developed in collaboration with Italian design house Pininfarina, the VF 8 combines a modern exterior design with a spacious cabin focused on digital integration and passenger comfort. Available features include a 15.6-inch infotainment display, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, an air ionization-equipped climate control system, and multiple ADAS technologies, including Highway Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, and 360-degree Surround View Monitoring.

VinFast is also emphasizing after-sales support and ownership assurance as key differentiators in the region. The company offers a 10-year vehicle warranty or 200,000 km, alongside a 10-year unlimited-kilometer battery warranty. Customers additionally receive access to mobile services, roadside assistance, DC fast charging networks, and over-the-air software updates.

As Gulf markets continue embracing electrification and smart mobility concepts, VinFast is seeking to establish itself as a long-term player in the region’s evolving automotive sector. By combining advanced technology, connected vehicle capabilities, and scalable EV solutions, the company is reinforcing its ambition to compete in one of the world’s fastest-changing mobility markets.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

By T N Ashok CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu’s political drama entered its most decisive phase on Friday evening as actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay moved within touching distance of forming the State’s next government after the Communist Party of India and the CPI(M) extended unconditional support to his fledgling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. The support of the two […]

The article Instability Stares At Tamil Nadu Polity Even If Vijay Cobbles Up A Majority Of 118 appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Park Lane Hong Kong on 16–17 MayCaption

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Hong Kong this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Park Lane Hong Kong (Canvas, 26F) on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Hong Kong buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.

The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Hong Kong remaining one of the Group’s most consistent source markets.

The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.

“Hong Kong has consistently been one of our strongest buyer markets, and we look forward to welcoming buyers in person to discover what we believe is an exceptional line-up of new homes,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Hong Kong or other major cities.”

Bellaguna Lake Residences

Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.

Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.

Bellaguna Golf Residences

Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.

Angsana Golf Residences Topaz

Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.

All three projects now have show units available to view at Laguna Property Sales Gallery

Banyan Living

Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.

Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.

Why Phuket, Why Now

Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.

Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.

Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Park Lane Hong Kong, Canvas (26F), on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.

Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket #PhuketProperty

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

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

About Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.

About Banyan Group Residences

Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.

The event marked the first international debut of two insurance companies within Techcombank’s ecosystem — Techcom Life (life insurance) and Techcom Insurance (non-life insurance). Both entities are positioned to build a new generation of insurance, anchored in data, technology, and customer-centricity.

The roadshow featured senior leadership from across the ecosystem, including Mr. Pranav Seth, Chairman of Techcom Insurance; Mr. Mukesh Pilania, Chief Executive Officer of Techcom Life; and Ms. Veo Nguyen, Chief People Officer of Techcombank, alongside other executives leading key functions in technology, distribution, and product development.

Discussions at the event focused on Vietnam’s economic outlook and the evolving role of insurance in its next phase of development. Speakers highlighted the industry’s transition from traditional, product-led models toward data-driven, technology-enabled, and personalized approaches, with increasing emphasis on customer experience and long-term engagement.

Participants engaged in in-depth exchanges with the leadership team, gaining insights into Vietnam’s insurance landscape as well as a clearer understanding of the vision and long-term aspirations behind Techcombank’s newly established insurance businesses. The sessions reflected growing international interest in Vietnam as a high-potential market undergoing structural transformation.

Techcom Life, the group’s life insurance arm, has demonstrated strong early momentum, achieving a trajectory within six months and ranking No.1 in the bancassurance market in Q1 2026. Meanwhile, Techcom Insurance served over 650,000 customers in 2025 through a nationwide network of 280 branches and more than 3,500 sales professionals, reflecting its growing scale in the non-life insurance segment.

Hong Kong, one of Asia’s leading insurance hubs, is part of Techcombank’s broader international roadmap, following previous engagements in Singapore, the United States, Europe, and Australia.

Techcombank plans to continue the Overseas Insurance Talent Roadshow across additional global markets in 2026, as part of its strategy to attract international talent and support the development of a next-generation insurance ecosystem in Vietnam.
Hashtag: #Techcombank

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

Air India is preparing deeper cost controls and fresh flight reductions as the Iran war pushes up fuel costs, disrupts airspace and intensifies pressure on a carrier still trying to complete one of the world’s most ambitious airline turnarounds.

The Tata Group-owned airline is weighing measures that could include furloughs for non-technical employees, salary reductions for senior executives, lower bonus payouts and capacity cuts of more than 20 per cent over the next three months. The review comes as the airline faces longer routings, higher aviation turbine fuel prices and weaker economics on several long-haul and regional services.

Nearly 100 domestic and international flights are expected to be trimmed through July, with North America, Europe and West Asia routes among the most exposed. Longer flight paths caused by restricted airspace across parts of West Asia have increased flying time, crew costs and fuel burn. For an airline with a large share of wide-body operations, even a modest extension of flight time can turn a marginal route into a loss-making one.

Chief executive Campbell Wilson has told staff that the airline had already scaled back some services in April and May, but worsening operating conditions required further action in June and July. The cuts are being framed as a temporary response to abnormal costs rather than a reversal of Air India’s expansion strategy, though they underscore the fragility of the carrier’s recovery.

Air India’s financial strain predates the latest escalation in West Asia. The airline has been absorbing the cost of fleet renewal, cabin refits, technology upgrades, merger integration and service improvements since Tata Group acquired it from the government in 2022. Its merger with Vistara has expanded its premium network and given Singapore Airlines a stake of just over 25 per cent in the enlarged carrier, but the integration has also added complexity at a time of volatile fuel markets and aircraft supply delays.

The airline’s losses for the year ended March 2026 have been estimated at more than ₹220 billion, a sharp deterioration linked to high fuel costs, airspace restrictions, operational disruptions and the heavy cost of restructuring. The figure has raised expectations that shareholders may need to provide additional financial support while management attempts to protect liquidity.

War-linked airspace restrictions have hit Air India more severely than many rivals because of its geography. Flights between the subcontinent and North America or Europe often depend on corridors through Pakistan, Iran, Iraq and surrounding regions. With some of these routes restricted or avoided for safety reasons, aircraft must take longer paths, increasing fuel consumption and reducing aircraft productivity.

The carrier has also faced constraints from aircraft availability. Refits of Boeing 787 aircraft, delivery delays and maintenance requirements have limited flexibility in reallocating capacity. The airline’s earlier suspension of Delhi-Washington services highlighted how aircraft shortages and airspace restrictions can combine to make long-haul routes commercially difficult even where demand exists.

Air India’s planned cuts come against a wider global aviation squeeze. Jet fuel prices have surged as the Iran war disrupted energy markets and raised fears over supply through the Gulf. Airlines with weaker fuel hedging, older fleets or longer detour-heavy networks face the harshest impact. Some carriers are raising fares, while others are cutting capacity to protect cash and preserve operational reliability.

For passengers, the adjustments could mean fewer non-stop choices, higher fares on peak routes and greater reliance on partner airlines through hubs such as London, Frankfurt, New York, Newark, Chicago and San Francisco. Air India is expected to prioritise commercially stronger routes and maintain connectivity where demand, yields and aircraft availability justify operations.

An ultra-slim flagship tablet setting new benchmarks in mobile productivity

Huawei globally debuted the HUAWEI MatePad Pro Max at this launch. Combining refined design, a premium display, PC-level productivity, and a full suite of creative tools, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro Max provides flagship tablet performance in a remarkably thin and light form factor. At 499g and measuring a mere 4.7 mm thick, even the exclusive PaperMatte Edition weighs just 509g, HUAWEI MatePad Pro Max is the thinnest and lightest tablet among the 13-inch+ tablet.

Smart wearables refreshed for the next generation

Huawei has introduced a fresh lineup of smart wearables tailored for the young generation. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 5 Series retains its iconic square design, now enhanced with a sleek, vibrant aesthetic. It guides users through engaging and accessible mini-workouts, encouraging a more active lifestyle. The series also supports a wide range of competitive sports, including cycling, golf, trail running, and tennis. With advanced tracking, analysis, and guidance features, it caters to diverse needs, from daily fitness routines to competitive sport.

Debuting at this event, the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 Racing Legend Edition is a professional running watch that embodies the look and feel of marathon racing. It features a new single running ability index (RAI) and a professional Training Camp Dashboard, giving runners deeper data insights to train smarter and race harder.

Huawei partnered with renowned jewelry designer Francesca Amfitheatrof to launch the HUAWEI WATCH ULTIMATE DESIGN Spring Edition. Inspired by the blooming beauty of spring, this design features 99 natural diamonds and diamond-cut sapphire glass, a wearable celebration of feminine strength and vitality.

Huawei has also unveiled new premium flagship kids watches: the HUAWEI WATCH KIDS X1 Series. Equipped with a front and rear high-definition camera setup, it features a 110° ultra-wide-angle front camera and a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen, offering a larger display and broader field of view. The device also includes a detachable and rotatable device body and AR fun feature, enabling kids to capture every precious moment of their explorations.

A new phone experience for the diverse needs of young users

Huawei officially launched the HUAWEI nova 15 Max, redefining the experience for a generation that plays hard and shoots sharp. Equipped with a 50 MP RYYB Ultra Vision Camera, it delivers true-to-life colors even in low light or backlit conditions. The 8,500 mAh Super Battery powers all-day use, eliminating battery anxiety. The Extra-Durable Body is drop-resistant, so everyday bumps are no longer a worry. Combined with a Vivid OLED Screen and Symmetrical Stereo Dual Speakers, an immersive audio-visual experience is always within reach. From photography to battery life, and from durability to audio-visuals, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max continuously empowers every passion.

From flagship tablets to smartwatches designed for children, Huawei’s connected device ecosystem continues to expand its presence in the daily lives of users around the world. Huawei remains committed to technology that is not only useful, but genuinely enriching, technology that ignites inspiration. Huawei looks forward to continued collaboration with users around the world, helping people live and work better, wherever they are.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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

The three-day industry gathering at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre runs from 5 to 7 May and is expected to draw more than 20,000 policymakers, manufacturers, suppliers, investors, researchers and technology specialists. Held under the theme “Transform Tomorrow”, the event is being staged in strategic partnership with Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.

The launch ceremony was officiated by Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, with senior SEMI executives, MIDA leadership and global semiconductor company representatives in attendance. The programme places manufacturing scale-up, advanced packaging, intelligent manufacturing, sustainability and workforce development at the centre of discussions, reflecting the industry’s shift from pure capacity expansion to more resilient and geographically diversified ecosystems.

Malaysia enters the event with a strong base in electrical and electronics manufacturing, particularly assembly, testing and packaging. The country has long been a critical node for chip back-end operations, with Penang and Kulim playing key roles in outsourced semiconductor assembly and test activity. The policy focus is now moving further up the value chain into chip design, advanced packaging, automation, materials, equipment support and higher-value manufacturing services.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, chief executive officer of MIDA, said Malaysia was no longer positioning itself as a passive beneficiary of industry shifts. “The semiconductor industry is at an inflection point, and Malaysia intends to be at the centre of what comes next,” he said, pointing to the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 as policy anchors for a broader industrial upgrade.

The E&E sector secured RM28.5 billion in approved investments in 2025, underlining continued investor interest despite a more fragmented global trade environment. Malaysia’s broader semiconductor strategy is focused on supply-chain integration, stronger domestic enterprise capability and talent development, as the country seeks to build a deeper industrial base around its existing production strengths.

Ajit Manocha, president and chief executive officer of SEMI, said closer coordination across design, manufacturing, materials and supply chains had become essential as artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and advanced electronics reshape demand. He said SEMICON Southeast Asia was designed not only as a technology showcase but as a platform for partnerships that can support long-term industry growth and resilience.

The timing of the Kuala Lumpur event is significant. Global semiconductor sales are on course to approach $1 trillion in 2026, driven largely by demand for AI accelerators, memory, advanced logic, data-centre infrastructure, automotive electronics and edge devices. Monthly industry sales crossed $99 billion in March 2026, while first-quarter sales were sharply higher than the previous quarter, showing the scale of the current upcycle.

Capital expenditure is also accelerating. Spending on 300mm fab equipment is projected to rise to about $133 billion in 2026 and $151 billion in 2027, as chipmakers expand capacity for advanced logic and memory while governments push for more localised semiconductor supply chains. Yet Southeast Asia remains under-represented in new front-end fabrication plans compared with China, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan and the United States, leaving room for Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines to compete more aggressively for future investment.

SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 features the Executive Leadership Summit, the MIDA Strategic Semiconductor Forum and Seminar, the Sustainability and Energy Summit, TechZoomers Challenge and TalentCONNECT. These sessions are designed to connect policy, capital, manufacturing capability and workforce planning, rather than treating the exhibition as a conventional trade fair.

The emphasis on talent is especially important. Semiconductor expansion is being constrained not only by investment cycles and export controls but also by shortages of engineers, technicians, automation specialists and materials experts. Malaysia’s challenge is to match global investor confidence with a skilled workforce capable of supporting advanced packaging, precision manufacturing and design-linked activity.