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Designed to bring fans closer to the competitive action, the partnership extends MLBB Esports engagement beyond viewership. Through the collectible cards, the title’s passionate fanbase will be able to connect with the M Series, its teams, and its players both during and outside of tournament periods.

According to Esports Charts, MLBB emerged as 2024’s most popular mobile esports title with over 475 million Hours Watched (HW). At the heart of the MLBB Esports circuit stands the M Series, the title’s flagship international tournament. Uniting players and fans from across the world, the M Series has become the main competitive stage for the world’s best MLBB teams and a driver of the game’s global esports ecosystem. In previous editions, the M6 and M5 reached 4.13 million and 5.06 million Peak Concurrent Viewers (PCV) respectively. The tournaments ranked ninth and sixth amongst the most-watched esports events of all time, according to Esports Charts. Backed by millions of viewers and a seven-year legacy of competitive excellence, the M Series has established itself amongst the biggest names in global sports and entertainment.

Just as trading cards have been a cornerstone of fan culture in traditional sports such as the National Basketball Association (NBA), English Premier League (EPL), and the FIFA World Cup—the MLBB Official Trading Card collection brings this longstanding tradition to MLBB Esports. It celebrates the game’s competitive excellence while giving fans a tangible way to connect with the M Series, commemorate iconic moments, and honour the players who define its legacy. Its launch also extends a global, time-honoured collectibles tradition into MLBB Esports, creating a new avenue for the community to engage with the tournament beyond the screen.

Through this partnership, MOONTON Games and 1Play will introduce the M Series’ first official trading card system, which includes:

1. All 22 participating teams and all players competing at the M7
2. A premium lineup of Player Signature Cards, Jersey & Materials Cards, and Match Moments Cards
3. Two flagship product lines for the M7: the Super Series and the Elite Series

Fans will be able to purchase the collections through 1Play’s official platforms and participate in offline retail experiences, pop-up events, card-trading sessions, exclusive onsite drops, and other interactive activities at future M Series editions. By integrating digital touchpoints with offline engagement, the partnership aims to strengthen the presence of MLBB Esports in global mainstream culture through an immersive collectibles experience for fans.

At the same time, as 1Play’s key strategic retail and offline experience partner across Southeast Asia and other core markets, OH!SOME will establish a long-term and stable collaboration framework with 1Play, playing a deep role in the overall planning and ongoing development of offline showcasing, retail infrastructure, and fan engagement experiences for the official M Series esports trading card collection. 1Play and OH!SOME will work closely across product presentation, spatial design, and user experience, jointly defining new standards for esports collectibles within offline consumer and cultural spaces.

With over 180 stores across Asia—including Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong of China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Philippines—OH!SOME has developed into a beloved and widely recognized regional retail brand. Leveraging OH!SOME’s established regional retail network and its strategic presence in major urban consumer hubs, 1Play will collaborate with OH!SOME to advance the rollout of offline experiences. Fans will be able to purchase, showcase, and engage with official 1Play card packs and trading cards at selected OH!SOME locations, achieving an explosive market presence for M Series collectibles across core cities.

Adrian Cher, Global Head of Partnerships, MLBB Esports at MOONTON Games, said: This partnership with 1Play marks a strategic step in how we extend MLBB Esports beyond the screen and into the everyday lives of our fans. As trading cards gain renewed traction among younger audiences, this partnership allows us to connect with the next generation through an avenue that reflects their interests and self-expression. By bringing the M Series into physical collectibles, we’re not only enriching the M7 experience, but also reinforcing MLBB’s place alongside traditional sports ecosystems where memorabilia plays a central role in fan culture. The upcoming collectibles launch reflects our long-term commitment to building MLBB Esports as a global sports and entertainment IP.”

AnJie, Founder & CEO of 1Play, said: “1Play is dedicated to creating collectible items that resonate with young audiences and express cultural identity. Our partnership with MOONTON Games represents a milestone in the development of esports collectibles. We aim to build a defining collectible ecosystem for this era—one that allows every fan to record their passion, celebrate their heroes, and collect the moments that matter.”

The 1Play × M Series Official Trading Card Collection is scheduled to launch during the M7, with its first edition dedicated to the tournament. Additional experiences—including team collaborations, onsite exclusives, signing sessions, and community-driven fan events—will be rolled out to further expand the cultural reach of MLBB esports.

With the M7, the M Series marks its return to Jakarta for the first time since the M4 in 2022. Set for January 2026, the tournament will unite 22 of the world’s best teams to compete for the USD 1,000,000 prize pool. This edition promises to be the largest and most exciting yet as Indonesia—home to MLBB’s most passionate fanbase—hosts the tournament.

For media queries or interview requests, please contact:
Email: [email protected]

Hashtag: #1Play

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

• Geely returned to CES 2026 for the third time, unveiling Full-Domain AI 2.0 and G-ASD to redefine next-gen smart vehicle tech.
• Geely advanced from “Full-Domain AI 1.0” to 2.0, while officially launching the G-ASD intelligent driving system to accelerate the transition to high-level autonomous driving.

LAS VEGAS, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2025 – Geely Auto Group attended the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to leading the next era of intelligent mobility. As CES continues to evolve into an AI-driven cross-industry innovation platform, Geely took center stage to unveil two major breakthroughs that will redefine the technical foundation of next-generation smart vehicles: Full-Domain AI 2.0, Geely’s upgraded vehicle intelligence architecture, and G-ASD (Geely Afari Smart Driving), Geely’s newly launched intelligent driving system designed to accelerate the transition to high-level autonomous driving.

Full-Domain AI 2.0 marks a significant evolution from Geely’s previous Full-Domain AI 1.0, shifting from fragmented, module-based intelligence toward a unified vehicle-wide AI architecture. Geely has achieved deep integration of vehicle-level computing power, data, and models to establish a powerful central intelligent engine, effectively empowering all vehicle functions with a “super AI brain” capable of unified scheduling and efficient collaboration across domains. This approach enables intelligent systems across the cockpit, chassis, safety, and driving domains to achieve mutual access and real-time interaction.

G-ASD marks a major step forward toward high-level autonomous driving. Developed as Geely’s next-generation intelligent driving system, G-ASD combines advanced AI, large-scale real-world driving data, and high-performance sensing and computing hardware to enhance safety and driving confidence in complex traffic scenarios.

Jerry Gan, CEO of Geely Auto Group: “AI is reshaping the automotive industry in many ways, from powertrains and components to a systematic reconstruction of mobility ecosystems and lifestyles. Geely is committed to creating safe, sustainable, and intelligent mobility for the world.”

Li Chuanhai, CTO of Geely Auto Group: “By 2030, cars will evolve into ‘Super Intelligence’ with emotional awareness, proactive service, and continuous evolution. G-ASD and Full-Domain AI 2.0 are not distant concepts—they are tangible innovations that integrate with cockpits and chassis to deliver highly humanlike, super intelligent, and extremely user-friendly experiences.”

Hashtag: #Geely

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

• Tackle rising business costs and trade barriers with a unified digital platform for Free Trade Agreements as well as build stronger economic partnerships.
• Bridge AI adoption gaps by co-funding shared data pools and introducing a regional “Trusted AI” mark to drive innovation and governance.
• Future-proof the workforce with targeted work visas for global experts, job transformation roadmaps, and advanced leadership programmes.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2026 – KPMG in Singapore and the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) are pleased to announce the release of a joint Budget 2026 Proposal, titled “Prospering in a New Global Landscape”.

By fostering resilient economic linkages, embedding digital trust, and cultivating world-class talent and leadership with cross-domain expertise, Singapore can ensure its businesses and economy remain secure, innovative, and competitive in an uncertain global landscape.

This Proposal outlines strategies to position Singapore as a critical hub for global flows, covering three crucial areas:

• A new global order: Resilience as a pivotal growth strategy
• The Intelligent Age: Smart solutions for an innovative era
• Next-gen talent: Empowering tomorrow’s leaders today

The recommendations in the proposal are also supported by data-driven insights from a survey recently conducted by KPMG and SID. More than 1,000 professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) and business owners were surveyed on the challenges they face and the kinds of Budget 2026 support they hoped to see. [For more information, please refer to the deck with the full survey results: https://kpmg.com/sg/en/campaigns/kpmg-singapore-budget.html ]

Empowering businesses to leverage Singapore’s trusted role as a global connector

Global commerce is rapidly transforming amid rising protectionism, shifting trade rules, evolving tax regimes, and geopolitical tensions. Singapore’s long-term prosperity in the new global order depends on its ability to lead as a trusted connector and aggregator of the flows of goods, capital, data, and talent.

Singapore must strengthen its economic linkages, build secure and interoperable digital platforms, cultivate a workforce equipped with cross-domain expertise, and equip boards with essential skills to navigate emerging risks and opportunities. Trusted and resilient economic linkages will ensure the seamless movement of goods, services, and investments, while interoperable digital platforms will play a critical facilitation role in enabling cross-verification of information, streamlining compliance, and fostering trust across borders. These efforts are especially important in helping businesses cope with shifting regulations. KPMG and SID’s survey found that 51 percent of respondents identified increased business costs as the main challenge to cross-border expansion, followed by higher tariffs (26 percent) and supply chain difficulties (25 percent). To address these challenges, 43 percent of respondents want stronger economic and trade partnerships to overcome trade barriers.

KPMG and SID recommend:

a) Developing a unified digital platform for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) management (page 7) to help businesses navigate complex procedures and unlock the full benefits of FTAs. This would be seamlessly integrated with government systems, making it more seamless and cost-effective for businesses to comply with FTA requirements. This would enable firms to leverage Singapore’s extensive FTA network to gain footholds in new markets, further enhancing Singapore’s regional and global competitiveness.

b) Increasing access to working capital to accelerate local enterprises’ strategic transformation and implementing industry-specific governance frameworks (page 7). With geopolitical shifts driving a more complex regulatory landscape, increased and dedicated funding would enable businesses to transform for the future while responding effectively to evolving governance standards. Such funding should be complemented by industry-specific governance playbooks to equip boards with essential tools to strengthen agility and resilience.

c) Enhancing Singapore’s government-backed trade platform with blockchain and AI (page 6). The global economy has seen an increase in supply chain disruptions amid geopolitical and trade uncertainties. An enhanced Government-backed trade platform would enable Singapore to further facilitate the flow of trusted payments, making it even easier for businesses to validate transactions and act on smart recommendations to elevate supply chain efficiency. Amid a more fragmented world, the enhanced platform would also reinforce Singapore’s position as a reliable hub for global commerce, by promoting increased supply chain transparency for critical industries like semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing.

d) Introducing progressive carbon taxes to reward decarbonisation and establish performance-based pathways for large emitters (page 9). Singapore’s carbon taxes must evolve to consider unique business needs and companies’ decarbonisation plans. Progressive carbon tax rates post-2030 – based on facility emissions volume, emissions per unit of output, and sectoral abatement potential – could be accompanied by permanent conditional tax rebates for energy-intensive, trade-exposed sectors. These rebates could be based on set criteria such as verified year-on-year reductions in carbon intensity and investments in low-carbon technology. To strengthen these efforts, Singapore could also establish an ASEAN Environmental Data Exchange to facilitate the sharing of standardised and interoperable environmental data between Singapore and its regional trade partners (page 8). The exchange would improve the flows of green trade and green capital, enabling Singapore to be a regional hub for environmental data harmonisation. Organisations like the Singapore Institute of Directors could play a catalytic role by building board-level capability, aligning disclosure expectations and promoting best practices through director education, guidance frameworks and peer learning on a regional scale, helping boards to lead initiatives like progressive carbon taxation.

Fostering an ecosystem of Trusted AI in the Agentic Era

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping global competitiveness, with agentic AI—capable of autonomous decision-making—introducing both transformative opportunities and significant challenges. While agentic AI can drive innovation, optimise operations, and unlock new efficiencies, it also raises critical concerns around accountability, ethical deployment, and governance.

A critical enabler of AI’s potential is data sharing, yet this often proves difficult due to competition, concerns over intellectual property, and a lack of trust between organisations. Businesses—particularly smaller enterprises—also face cost constraints in accessing high-quality data, and many also lack the strategic clarity and workforce competencies to identify where AI can augment their operations.

KPMG and SID’s poll found that 54 percent of respondents cited talent and skills gaps as the top challenge for adopting AI, followed by high costs of technology adoption (52 percent) and a lack of clear AI adoption strategies (48 percent). By addressing these concerns, Singapore will be able to fully leverage the vast potential of AI and data to reinforce its status as a hub across various sectors.

KPMG and SID recommend:

a) Co-funding sector-specific shared data pools in partnership with trade associations and industry stakeholders (page 15). These shared, anonymised data pools would enable businesses to access high-quality datasets without incurring prohibitive costs. Tailored to specific sectors such as logistics and retail, these pools would facilitate benchmarking, model training, and experimentation under a trusted framework that safeguards data privacy and protects intellectual property. Shared data initiatives should be paired with guided AI adoption support to help businesses understand how AI can enhance specific parts of their value chain. For example, targeted support could help logistics firms optimise supply chains or assist retailers in leveraging AI to personalise customer experiences. This dual approach would enable broader AI adoption and accelerate innovation across industries.

b) Enhancing the public-private partnership (PPP) framework to accelerate AI adoption (page 15). As firms navigate high costs and limited guidance around AI adoption, there is an opportunity for the Government to provide greater access to infrastructure to lower barriers for AI experimentation and deployment. The enhanced framework would create positive spillover effects from existing AI initiatives, as government agencies, academia and industry stakeholders collaborate to strategically integrate AI solutions into business strategies. The framework could also promote cross-sector collaboration in key industries, fostering a culture of open innovation in AI. To bolster digital trust, Singapore could also establish a regional “Trusted AI” mark to drive harmonisation and innovation (page 12). Although Singapore’s Model AI Governance Framework provides a strong foundation for responsible AI deployment, there is still a largely untapped opportunity for Singapore to champion an assurance label that shows firms have AI controls aligned with recognised AI governance standards. By pushing regional recognition of this mark, Singapore could accelerate cross-border innovation and trade. The mark would build on initiatives like AI Verify and Project Moonshot, which have helped to promote Trusted AI in Singapore.

c) Supporting hands-on AI governance training for board members and executives (page 13) through a dedicated fund. This would complement existing SkillsFuture programmes which focus primarily on AI awareness, by expanding the emphasis to address strategic and operational gaps at the leadership level – covering ethical deployment, change management and cross-domain applications.

Building globally relevant leaders with cross-domain skills

To fulfil its role as a hub for global flows, Singapore must enable its businesses to navigate a complex web of governance requirements, trade rules, tax policies, and tariffs. While compliance with governance standards will bring higher upfront costs, it also provides a foundation for businesses to lead in innovation and competitiveness. For instance, businesses that embrace sustainability compliance can innovate in areas like green finance, carbon accounting, and environmental data exchange.

Yet, none of this is possible without specialised talent and leadership. Singapore needs professionals and board leaders with expertise in areas such as supply chain management, AI governance, and sustainability strategy. These individuals must be able to connect the dots across domains, such as linking data governance with trade compliance or integrating sustainability goals into business operations. The need for enhanced talent development also emerged from KPMG and SID’s survey findings. Forty-nine percent of respondents want more skills development and upskilling courses. Meanwhile, 42 percent hope for more support for workforce transformation and job redesign, such as higher grants. In addition, 37 percent of respondents want more leadership and management development initiatives, especially in the areas of mentorship and coaching for emerging leaders and advanced leadership programmes.

KPMG and SID recommend:

a) Creating a dedicated work-pass category for “master trainers” and mentors (page 18). The work-pass would encourage international professionals to join local companies, public agencies and training institutions to lead structured upskilling or leadership development programmes. This would accelerate skills transfer, expose workers to global best practices, and build a robust pipeline of talent capable of driving strategic transformation and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Structured leadership development programmes could also include peer-sharing platforms (page 21) aimed at promoting transformation training among C-suite leaders. Backed by the public sector and industry stakeholders, such platforms could foster the exchange of best practices, promote collective learning on key sustainability capabilities and empower leaders to proactively redesign roles and workflows ahead of market shifts.

b) Setting up job transformation roadmaps with co-funded training and certification initiatives (page 19) tied closely to sector-specific needs. As rapid technological developments shape industry demand for skills, job transformation roadmaps would be beneficial in outlining sector-specific disruptions, challenges and opportunities. These roadmaps could be accompanied by industry-recognised certification, and programmes backed by both the public and private sectors. Tailored to sectoral needs, certifications could help to assess whether workers have acquired the necessary skills to perform in transformed roles, especially in fast-evolving sectors where traditional qualifications may no longer suffice.

c) Establishing a $100 million fund to advance social impact reporting (page 9). As Singapore pursues long-term resilience, it must also ensure that economic growth is sustainable and inclusive. The fund could be used to train professionals and board directors in the reporting of social metrics, support academic modules in social sustainability and certify social auditors and advisers. It could also be complemented by broader efforts to enhance environmental, social and governance (ESG) competencies among businesses’ top leadership. Singapore could establish a national registry of certified sustainability committee members (page 20) who can be matched to boards and committees across sectors. This would help to expand access to qualified board resources, especially for local enterprises.

Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG in Singapore, said:

“Leadership today isn’t just about mastering AI or acquiring specialised skills—it’s about navigating the intersections of cross-border trade, technology, and sustainability. To remain competitive, leaders must move beyond the basics, using AI and data to drive real business outcomes while building governance frameworks that inspire trust. At the same time, they need the courage to take calculated risks and collaborate across ecosystems to unlock new opportunities. Initiatives like co-funding sector-specific shared data pools and guided AI adoption support are critical to overcoming barriers and equipping leaders with the tools to thrive. As disruptions grow increasingly cross-border and cross-domain, Singapore’s ability to cultivate leaders who can turn complexity into opportunity will define its success as a global flows hub.”

Ajay Kumar Sanganeria, Partner, Head of Tax, KPMG in Singapore, said:

“Singapore’s position as a global hub—connecting trade, data, and capital—offers businesses significant opportunities to grow and compete globally. Grants and platforms are vital enablers, but they must be part of a broader solution that simplifies complexities and empowers businesses to focus on innovation.
Future-ready approaches, such as managing governance and compliance in a more consolidated or ‘as-a-service’ mode, can reduce burdens on enterprises. A unified digital platform for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) management, enhanced with blockchain and AI, could streamline compliance and unlock the full benefits of Singapore’s FTA network. Co-funded training programmes and shared governance frameworks can further help businesses pool resources and build capabilities. By combining grants, platforms, and smarter ways of working, Singapore strengthens its role as a trusted global connector and equips businesses to lead with confidence in an evolving world.”

Yeoh Oon Jin, Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors, said:

“Singapore’s future as a global hub for connectivity and commerce will be shaped by how boards of directors evolve to lead with resilience and trust. Budget 2026 is an opportunity to strengthen governance frameworks that embed sustainability, cyber trust and accountability into every organisation’s agenda. By empowering directors to champion innovation, sustainability and digital assurance, organisations can grow with confidence while reinforcing Singapore’s position as a secure and trusted connector for goods, capital, data and talent in an increasingly complex global landscape.”
Hashtag: #KPMG #SID

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

About KPMG in Singapore

KPMG in Singapore is part of a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 142 countries and territories with more than 275,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.

About SID

The Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) is Singapore’s national association for company directors. Established in 1998, our mission is to transform boards and empower board directors to be champions of good governance. SID works with regulators and partners to serve as the voice for directors and facilitates consultations and feedback sessions on regulatory matters. In advocating for good governance, SID advances thought leadership and benchmarking research and indices on corporate governance and directorship issues.

SID builds competencies and capabilities to enhance boardroom skills of directors for informed decision-making. An accreditation programme serves to set standards for and showcase best practices of good governance. The organisation supports members on their directorship journey with courses, workshops, advanced masterclasses, forum discussions and pit-stops. SID connects and strengthens the ecosystem with initiatives such as mentoring and networking. The Governance for Good Alliance is an initiative by SID to bring together key stakeholders who help advance our vision for every board director to be a champion of good governance.

For more information, visit sid.org.sg

71 per cent of Asia’s young adults prefer clear planning, with 69 per cent optimistic about their financial future despite prevailing uncertainty

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2026 – Asia’s young adults are taking a structured approach to managing their finances, according to a new study published by Prudential plc (“Prudential”), the leading Asia and Africa insurer. The research, titled “Financial Mindset of Young Adults in Asia”, finds that more than seven in 10 respondents (71 per cent) choose clear planning over spontaneity, maintaining consistent insurance and investment habits. This pragmatism is coupled with optimism: nearly 70 per cent believe their personal finances will improve in the next five to 10 years.

The study surveyed over 5,300 young adults aged 20-35 across seven Asian markets, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand, aiming to take a pulse on this dynamic generation’s insurance and investment experiences, preferences, and attitudes.

A Generation of Financial Pragmatists

The majority of Asia’s young adults believe living in uncertainty is now the norm (63 per cent), citing financial security as their top life concern (77 per cent), surpassing family responsibilities (53 per cent), health (52 per cent), career and education (42 per cent). Close to 60 per cent report focusing more on the future over enjoying the present moment.

Amidst this prevailing sense of unpredictability, young Asians maintain a positive personal financial outlook. Sixty-four per cent express confidence that they will have enough money to fund retirement.

In terms of financial management, more than half of young adults (53 per cent) seek a balance of smart investment strategies with freedom to enjoy life. Flexibility remains a defining preference, with 62 per cent of respondents favouring financial solutions that evolve alongside their lives and aspirations, rather than adhering rigidly to one style of saving or investing.

A measured risk profile with a long-term perspective also defines how young adults in Asia approach investment. They are balanced between high-risk investments for higher returns (42 per cent) and safe, low-risk options such as fixed deposits to safeguard savings (40 per cent). Nearly 60 per cent prefer investment instruments designed to be held for an extended period, reflecting an orientation toward sustainable financial growth.

Priscilla Ng, Chief Customer and Wealth Officer at Prudential plc, said: “Prudential is committed to empowering people across all life stages, including young adults, to shape their future, protecting possibilities and nurturing every promise. Today, Asia’s median age is just 32.5 years¹, highlighting a vibrant and youthful population. This generation is redefining how financial management and security is approached, with unique priorities and expectations. Understanding their perspectives helps us tailor solutions that are simple, accessible, and relevant to their needs.”

Digital Ease, Human Expertise

The survey further reveals that young adults in Asia are navigating their insurance and investment journey through a blend of digital convenience and human support. With the prevalence of digital tools, 61 per cent of respondents feel confident researching and selecting products on their own, and 54 per cent are confident managing their portfolio independently.

Yet, human touchpoints remain highly valued: 64 per cent prefer consulting financial advisers for life or health insurance decisions and ongoing support, especially when handling complexities in coverage details (70 per cent) and the claims process (68 per cent). At the same time, digital platforms are favoured for real-time financial management, reflecting a growing demand for hybrid insurance and investment experiences that integrate technology and personal guidance – an approach that strongly resonates with today’s pragmatic young adults.

Millennials and Gen Z are expected to make up about half of Asia-Pacific’s consumers by 2030². For insurers, this means reimagining engagement with this segment through simple, accessible products and innovative, empathetic experiences that blend data, technology, and human understanding, said Ms. Ng.

Explore the detailed findings in the full report.

¹ United Nations’ World Population Prospects 2024
² Eastspring Investment: Asia’s consumer-fuelled growth, September 2025Hashtag: #Prudential

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

About the report

Financial Mindset of Young Adults in Asia is a Prudential commissioned report, delving into the insurance and investment experiences, preferences and attitudes of 5,348 people aged 20-35 in seven Asian markets. through online quantitative survey. The survey was conducted in July-August 2025.

About Prudential plc

Prudential provides life and health insurance and asset management in Greater China, ASEAN, India and Africa. Prudential’s mission is to be the most trusted partner and protector for this generation and generations to come, by providing simple and accessible financial and health solutions. The business has dual primary listings on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (HKEX: 2378) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: PRU). It also has a secondary listing on the Singapore Stock Exchange (SGX: K6S) and a listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: PUK) in the form of American Depositary Receipts. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and is also included for trading in the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme and the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme.

Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.

www.prudentialplc.com/

There are no flashy RGB lighting effects here, only a sheet of glass as thin as a cicada’s wing, being repeatedly rolled and unrolled like a tape measure. This is the public debut of Lens Technology’s aerospace-grade UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) photovoltaic encapsulation solution. This technology marks the official entry of the manufacturing titan—best known as a giant in the Apple supply chain—transferring its precision manufacturing capabilities from consumer electronics to humanity’s next trillion-dollar market: space infrastructure.

As leading global satellite companies begin the mass deployment of third-generation (V3) satellites, the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) internet race is entering a “second half” defined by heavy payloads, long lifespans, and low costs. Lens Technology’s entry aims to untie the knot that has long plagued the aerospace industry: the trade-off between flexibility and durability.

Farewell to the “Plastic Feel”: The Material Battle in Space

At the Lens Technology booth, engineers demonstrated the core contradiction to the audience: Traditional aerospace solar cell covers are either heavy Cerium-doped Glass (CMG) or expensive Fused Silica, typically ranging from 100μm to 500μm in thickness. They are robust, but too heavy and impossible to bend.

To adapt to the massive power demands of next-generation satellites (such as those supporting direct-to-cell services), solar wing designs are rapidly evolving from rigid panels to Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSA-like structures). This shift forced designers to temporarily turn to polymer materials like transparent Polyimide (CPI).

“However, polymers have a fatal weakness in space,” explained a Lens Technology on-site technical lead. “The LEO environment is filled with high-energy Atomic Oxygen (AO) and strong UV radiation. Under long-term exposure, polymer molecular chains break, causing the material to yellow, become brittle, and suffer a drastic drop in light transmission. This efficiency decay was tolerable for early satellites with 5-7 year lifespans, but for the new generation of mega-constellations pursuing higher commercial returns, it is unacceptable.”

Lens Technology’s answer is Aerospace-Grade UTG. As an inorganic material, glass possesses innate “immunity” to Atomic Oxygen and UV aging, ensuring high light transmission throughout the satellite’s lifecycle. More importantly, its dense structure provides an effective barrier against water vapor and micrometeoroids, offering physical protection for delicate ultra-thin HJT or future Perovskite batteries.

The 30-Micron “Moat”: A Perfect Match for Next-Gen Satellites

In the demo area, a piece of glass only 30μm-50μm thick is bent to an astonishing radius of R1.5mm. This level of flexibility drew gasps from the audience.

This is exactly the characteristic most coveted by top global satellite companies today. To reduce the cost per launch, next-generation mega-satellites must be stowed with origami-like efficiency inside the rocket fairing. Lens Technology’s UTG solution allows solar wings to be tightly wound like a tape measure during launch, and instantly recover to a flat state upon orbital deployment.

However, making glass thin is the first step; keeping it from shattering during the violent vibration of a rocket launch is the real challenge.

Analysts point out that Lens Technology’s core competitiveness lies in its proprietary chemical strengthening processes and laser/diamond wire cutting technologies. Glass fractures often originate from micro-cracks invisible to the naked eye. Leveraging processes honed on foldable smartphones, Lens has significantly reduced the density of micro-defects on the glass edges and surfaces. This means that even under immense tension and vibration, this “glass skin” remains tough and resilient.

Dimensional Strike: Reshaping Aerospace Costs with “Consumer-Grade” Capacity

If technical specifications are the ticket to entry, then capacity and cost control are Lens Technology’s ultimate weapons.

“The logic of commercial space has changed; it is now the era of industrial mass production,” commented an industry analyst at the scene. Compared to the small-batch, lab-grade customization model of traditional aerospace glass manufacturers, Lens Technology brings the scale of consumer electronics manufacturing.

Facing the grand ambition of global satellite leaders planning to launch tens of thousands of satellites annually, supply chain elasticity is critical. Lens Technology stated that it has the capability to rapidly expand existing pilot lines or flexibly retrofit mass production lines. This potential for “ten-thousand-satellite scale” delivery and yield control can significantly lower the BOM (Bill of Materials) cost per satellite—addressing the most sensitive pain point for commercial space giants today.

Outlook: The New Cornerstone of Next-Gen Space Energy

At CES, Lens Technology also “spoiled” its future technology roadmap.

As Perovskite/Silicon tandem cells are viewed as the mainstream for future satellite power, UTG will serve not just as a cover, but as an encapsulation substrate. Lens Technology revealed it is developing next-generation composite UTG integrated with Anti-Static (ESD) coatings and Selective Radiation coatings, which will not only protect chips from electrostatic discharge damage but also assist in regulating battery temperature.

Although this business currently accounts for a tiny fraction of Lens Technology’s massive revenue and is in a period of intensive validation with global top-tier photovoltaic component manufacturers (Tier 2) and top commercial space clients (Tier 1), its signal significance cannot be ignored.

From smartphone screens to satellite wings, Lens Technology is proving that in the era of scaled expansion for space infrastructure, ground-based industrial giants possessing extreme craftsmanship and mass manufacturing capabilities will be indispensable “pavers” for the interstellar journey.

Hashtag: #LensTechnology

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

By Nitya Chakraborty India’s isolation from Global South on the issue of Trump’s invasion of Venezuela is now complete. Prime Minister Narendra Modi claims himself as the leader of Global South. Both at the SCO summit and BRICS meeting last year, Modi was active in articulating the aspirations and the programmes of the developing and […]

The article Narendra Modi Has Lost His Moral Right To Lead 2026 BRICS Presidency appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Two-year collaboration to support Hong Kong’s talent pipeline by strengthening STEM readiness and industry exposure among teen girls and young women aged 12-19

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2026 – The FutureGen Girls Foundation (“the Foundation“) and Microsoft Hong Kong have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch a two-year strategic collaboration aimed at expanding access to artificial intelligence (AI) and STEM education for teen girls and young women aged 12-19 across Hong Kong. The collaboration will focus on developing future-ready skills, mentoring networks, and pathways that help teen girls and young women imagine and pursue diverse career opportunities in a rapidly evolving world of work and further expand outreach to all.

Starting in year 2026, Microsoft Hong Kong will support the Foundation to support the development of new learning experiences that integrate AI education, hands-on digital skills training, and real-world career exposure opportunities. Through workshops, mentorship, recognized learning programs, and outreach initiatives, the collaboration seeks to broaden participation in emerging fields and level the playing field from teen girls and young women to all students.

This initiative aligns with the Foundation’s mission to empower teen girls and young women, helping them bridge youth to careers with confidence, purpose, and access to diverse industry pathways. Key highlights of the collaboration include:

• AI Skills Education: Integrating age-appropriate Microsoft AI learning tools and certification courses into FGG programs.
• Mentorship & Role Modelling: Connecting students with Microsoft professionals and student ambassadors.
• Community Engagement: Joint workshops, outreach activities, and participation in Foundation Youth Career Fairs.
• Real-World AI Application: Showing how AI is applied across industries and helping students understand real-world applications and inspire problem-solving skills.
• Inclusive Access: Ensuring opportunities reach students across diverse schools and districts.

“For many secondary school students, future development pathway can feel distant or unclear simply because they may not yet have the access or exposure to see what is possible,” said Jennifer Yu Cheng, Founder of the Foundation. “Our aim is to make that exploration easier – to open doors across more than 20 industries.”

“By expanding access to future ready learning and real world career experiences, we are helping to build a strong and diverse talent pipeline ready to step into the opportunities of tomorrow. This is the foundation of our collaboration with Microsoft Hong Kong.”

“Through this collaboration, we hope to empower students to unlock the courage to try, to explore different fields, and to image big futures for themselves,” said Secy Cheung, Foundation Founding Board Director. “The most meaningful change happens when young people realize that their voice and vision matter.”

Leo Liu, General Manager of Microsoft Hong Kong shared, “At Microsoft, we are deeply committed to empowering the next generation by democratizing access to AI and future-ready skills. Through trusted, secure platforms and hands-on learning experiences, we strive to make advanced technology accessible to all, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Together with the FutureGen Girls Foundation, we look forward to supporting Hong Kong’s youth to become frontier talent in the digital era.”

The foundation and Microsoft Hong Kong are committed to exploring further opportunities in future.

Hashtag: #FutureGenGirlsFoundation

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About the FutureGen Girls Foundation

The FutureGen Girls Foundation (“the Foundation”) is a registered charitable organization dedicated to empowering teen girls and young women, bridging youth to careers. By collaborating with schools, industry partners, and community organizations, the Foundation creates pathways that support skill-building, career exploration, and youth leadership development across Hong Kong.

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.

This award is less about the trophy itself and more about what it represents — years of steady progress, consistent teamwork, and a shared commitment to improving the way we support businesses. It reflects the long-term effort of our team and partners who continue to learn, adapt, and refine how we use the Xero ecosystem to bring real value to clients.

“We are truly grateful for this recognition,” says Alex So, Founder of FastLane Group. “Each award reminds us that we’re on the right path, but it also keeps us grounded. Our progress comes from continuous effort, small improvements made every day, and the trust our clients place in us. Technology should empower people — not replace them — and we will keep working quietly and consistently to help businesses grow with clarity and confidence.”

From Cloud to Intelligence
FastLane’s journey with Xero began with cloud accounting — transforming how businesses manage compliance and financial data. Today, the partnership has evolved into something more ambitious: using AI to make accounting faster, smarter, and more human.

Xero’s latest AI companion, JAX (Just Ask Xero), automates tasks such as reconciliation, invoicing, and financial insights through simple conversational commands. For Alex, JAX represents the next leap in professional practice.

“Cloud technology gave us speed,” he explains. “AI gives us insight. When our accountants can ask a system a question and get an intelligent answer instantly, they can spend their time advising clients, not crunching numbers.”

Trust, Transparency, and the Human Touch
As AI becomes more embedded in accounting, FastLane emphasizes responsibility and human oversight. The firm aligns with Xero’s commitment to transparent and ethical AI — ensuring that every automated decision still begins and ends with human judgment.

“AI doesn’t take away our role; it amplifies it,” Alex says. “Technology can process data, but it can’t replace human intuition, empathy, or trust. That’s what clients truly value — and that’s what we protect.”

A Vision for the Future
FastLane’s influence now extends across Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia, where it helps entrepreneurs and growing companies build smarter, more scalable financial systems. Beyond compliance, the firm focuses on advisory, automation, and strategy — redefining how accountants support business growth in an AI-driven world.

“The future accountant isn’t just a number-keeper,” Alex concludes. “They’re a strategic partner, powered by technology and guided by purpose. AI gives us back the time to think, lead, and create real impact.”

Hashtag: #FastLaneGroup

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About FastLane Group

FastLane Group provides full-stack accounting services to startups, SMEs, and large corporations in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Taiwan. As a Xero Platinum partner, the Company leverages Xero’s cloud-based accounting software to provide efficient services that comply with local accounting standards. The services cover customised professional accounting services, accountancy, bookkeeping, taxation, offshore formation, company secretary, etc. It was honoured as the Total Xero Award 2025 – Winner, Xero Asia Advisory Partner of the Year 2024 – Winner, and Xero Accounting Partner of the Year Hong Kong 2019 – Winner.

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By Nitya Chakraborty The invasion of Venezuela by the United States on the early hours of January 3 along with the kidnapping of President Nicholas Maduro and his wife marks a new phase in Donald Trump’s foreign policy which has been termed by The Guardian columnist as “naked imperialism”. The announcement by Trump that the […]

The article U.S. Invasion Of Venezuela May Set The Process Of Trump’s Down Turn In November Mid Term appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

“We take pride in recalling that China hosted the INTERPOL General Assembly in Beijing in 1995 and 2017, and this time, Hong Kong, China will be the host city for the 94^th General Assembly in 2026,” said Vice Minister of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Xu Datong.

The General Assembly is the governing body of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), at which police chiefs and ministers of its 196 member states gather to discuss global security issues and foster collaboration.

The HKSAR’s Commissioner of Police Mr Chow Yat-ming, said the selection of Hong Kong as the host city highlights China’s trust in both the HKSAR and the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), and underscores Hong Kong’s strategic importance as an international “super connector” in global policing.

“Having served at INTERPOL and visited Rome, Italy; New Delhi, India; Vienna, Austria; and Glasgow, United Kingdom for various General Assemblies, I never imagined Hong Kong would have the opportunity to host this prestigious event,” Mr Chow said. “When our country proposed Hong Kong as the host, I felt deeply honoured.”

The HKSAR Government and HKPF aim to use this occasion to showcase positive stories about China, Hong Kong, and the HKPF, illustrating the success of the “One Country, Two Systems” formula for the HKSAR, Mr Chow added.

Hong Kong has a long association with INTERPOL. The HKPF is a sub-bureau under China, and plays an active and prominent role within INTERPOL, contributing expertise on major crime trends, cybercrime, and financial crime.

The HKPF regularly sends officers to INTERPOL headquarters in the French city of Lyon and the Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore for secondments. Currently, three officers are serving in key roles, one in financial crime coordination in Lyon, and two in technology crime management roles in Singapore.

The HKPF is restructuring its strategy to expand ties with overseas law enforcement agencies, especially in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and those under the Belt and Road Initiative, to better address emerging transnational crime.

Emphasis is placed on intercepting cross-border fraudulent funds, with the global FRONTIER+ platform (established in October 2024) now connecting 13 jurisdictions, facilitating real-time intelligence sharing and fund interception.

In this connection, on November 12, 2025, the HKPF held its inaugural Ethics Governance Roundtable in Hong Kong, with participation from INTERPOL, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and representatives from various countries.

INTERPOL’s delegation was led by the Director of the Office of Internal Oversight, Mr Eugênio Ricas. The Roundtable featured in-depth discussions on ethics governance including personal financial risk management strategies, achieving fruitful outcomes.

The HKPF will continue to leverage Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” through various international policing platforms, including INTERPOL, to further strengthen collaboration with law enforcement agencies across different countries and regions, working together to safeguard global and regional security.

Mr Chow said that hosting the General Assembly is a top priority for the HKSAR Government and that preparations were already well underway.

“The HKPF is maintaining close communication with INTERPOL and China’s National Central Bureau to ensure smooth hosting of the 2026 General Assembly,” Mr Chow said, adding that he hopes that delegates attending the event will appreciate Hong Kong’s vitality, friendly spirit, and rich culinary culture during their stay.

“We are determined to ensure every delegation has an unforgettable experience from the moment they arrive at Hong Kong International Airport,” he said.

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #INTERPOL

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By Nitya Chakraborty In the neighbouring Bangladesh, the political developments take unpredictable course many times, but the latest alliance between the NCP, the party of the students body which led the July Revolution and the fundamentalist Jamaat-e-Islami, has shocked the progressive forces who supported the uprising that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina […]

The article Khaleda Zia’s Death Is Helping BNP In February 12 Polls Through Sympathy Wave appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Showcasing transparent MicroLED, ultra-bright HUD, and naked-eye 3D displays to redefine the display landscape across retail, cockpit, and smart device applications

LAS VEGAS, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – Innolux will showcase its next-generation display technology in Las Vegas, USA from January 6 to 8, under the theme “Display the Future, TOGETHER.” Powered by high brightness, high resolution, and immersive experiences, Innolux meets the evolving demands of smart retail, cockpit displays, smart homes, and commercial exhibitions, demonstrating its forward-looking strength in cross-domain integration, application innovation, and market deployments.

Next-generation MicroLED transparent displays reshape the visual experience across retail settings

For the first time, Innolux will unveil its next-generation “MicroLED Display Window,” delivering a clearer, more eye-catching spatial visual experience through high clarity, high transmittance, high brightness, and high resolution. Featuring self-illuminating technology, an advanced optical structure, and a wide color gamut, the product delivers outstanding visibility even in strong ambient light, while its high-resolution design blends visual elegance with clear and efficient information recognition. Transparent displays can simultaneously showcase product information, dynamic advertisements, and navigation content, cutting wait times and easing operational demands, while accommodating a variety of sizes and shapes with the world’s largest modular splicing unit. This solution seamlessly integrates digital information into real-world settings, making it ideal for applications such as commercial window displays and museum exhibits, while delivering a new immersive display experience for retail and smart environments.

Dual MicroLED technology debuts, upgrading marine and automotive displays with ultra-high brightness and minimalist aesthetics

Innolux is unveiling its first “Ultra-High Brightness MicroLED HUD,” delivering ultra-high direct brightness (50,000 nits) and reflective virtual image brightness (10,000 nits). This breakthrough solves the challenges of reflections and image blurring caused by intense light in marine and automotive environments. Even under strong sunlight or reflections from the sea surface or deck, the HUD clearly presents waterways, sea conditions, and navigation instructions, thereby enhancing cockpit visibility. Critical information can be projected directly in the line of sight or front field of vision, minimizing eye movement while improving operational safety and application flexibility.

This year’s event will also highlight the next-generation “MicroLED Decoration Display,” which pair high brightness with an elegant wood grain design, ideal for ship cabins and car interiors. When powered off, the display blends seamlessly into its surroundings like a wood panel; when on, its specialized optical structure delivers high transmittance with minimal brightness loss, meeting ESG standards. Leveraging MicroLED technology, the display achieves 2,000 nits brightness, 229 PPI resolution, and 115% NTSC color gamut, ensuring clear visibility even under strong light. By merging aesthetics with functionality, it broadens the range of applications for interior displays.

Multi-view 3D and mirror displays dramatically boost product display efficiency

Innolux has launched the industry’s first “65″ Multi-Users N3D & Kirameki Display(8K)” for retail and exhibition applications. The display combines exclusive N3D multi-view naked-eye 3D technology with the Kirameki algorithm, overcoming the limitations of traditional 2D displays and delivering a more immersive, lifelike stereoscopic experience. N3D allows multiple users to view 3D content simultaneously, maintaining comfort over extended periods while clearly rendering the product’s three-dimensional form. Meanwhile, Kirameki enhances luster, texture, and material details, creating a natural lighting effect from every angle. This boosts product recognition, extends customer engagement, and enriches the interactive experience, making it ideal for retail and boutique displays as well as digital advertising.

Also on display will be an industry first—the “InnoMirror,” which features high-reflection coated glass and local dimming technology to enhance contrast and sharpness while reducing mirror reflection interference. When powered off, the display appears as a mirror; when on, it delivers product information and enables virtual try-on, color matching, and item switching, thus reducing wait times, minimizing wear, and easing staff workloads. This makes it perfect for a range of environments, from boutiques and beauty retailers to smart homes.

Exclusive N3D display technology, paired with low-latency performance and eye-tracking, delivers an immersive naked-eye 3D experience

Innolux is unveiling its “16″ Single User N3D Display,” featuring exclusive N3D technology and a 2D restoration algorithm. The system limits 3D latency to under 1 millisecond, effectively reducing crosstalk and visual discomfort. It also supports seamless switching between 3D and 2D, while eye-tracking ensures a natural, immersive viewing experience.

At the exhibition, Innolux will showcase a range of innovative displays for applications including laptops, AI notebooks, and outdoor and in-flight entertainment, highlighting its latest breakthroughs in display technology. Products on display include the “Multi-Frequency Display (MFD)” and the “Integrated Touch Display.” The former leverages multi-frequency display technology to automatically switch between 24Hz, 60Hz, and 120Hz refresh rates depending on the content, thus optimizing video quality, gaming and graphics smoothness, and energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the Integraded Touch Display incorporates a tTED IC chip design, supports refresh rates from 30Hz to 120Hz, streamlines the PCBA assembly, and features a thin, lightweight form factor. Also on display are the “Ultra Slim and Light LCD Display with Carbon Fiber Bezel,” the “17.3″UHD MiniLED Local Dimming” and the “13.3″ MiniLED for in Fly Entertaiment Display.” Through these debuting products, Innolux exemplifies the integration of high performance, energy efficiency, and portability, reinforcing its leadership in defining the next generation of smart display technology.

Hashtag: #Innolux

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As crowds gathered for the New Year Countdown, they were able to enjoy a new format experience, with this year’s main event taking place at the Chater Road pedestrian zone in Central, sitting next to the Winter Wonderland display, which transformed Statue Square Gardens into a magical Christmas Town complete with a magnificent 20-metre tree and charming decorations.

A series of events including music performances and a light show were arranged by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) with the aim of conveying positive energy, care, and blessings of peace to both locals and visitors, and to welcome a hopeful new year together.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government had anticipated a large number of visitors during the festive season, which included a four-day long weekend over Christmas, while January 1 coincided with the start of a three-day long holiday on the Chinese Mainland.

The Government said the number of non-Chinese Mainland visitors reached a post-Covid record every day during the Christmas holiday with around 50,000 visitors daily from December 25 to 27, accounting for around 33% of the total number of travellers during that period.

This influx of festive visitors provided a further boost to Hong Kong’s tourism sector. In 2025, Hong Kong received 50 million visitors, marking a 12% year-on-year rise. This included 38 million visitors from the Chinese Mainland (up 11% year-on-year) and 12 million non-Chinese Mainland visitors (up 15% year-on-year).

In the Euromonitor International Top 100 City Destinations Index 2025, Hong Kong ranked second globally for international arrivals, behind only Bangkok.

The large number of visitors over festive period provided further impetus to the local tourism industry, which had already been buoyed by a series of mega events at the new Kai Tak Sports Park. Since its opening in March 2025, KTSP has become a new hub for major sports and entertainment events.

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #tourism #megaevents #newyear #countdown #kaitaksportspark

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A landmark entertainment destination has begun operations at Qiddiya City on 31 December 2025, as Six Flags Qiddiya City opened to the public near Riyadh, marking the flagship attraction of the sprawling Saudi project and the first Six Flags theme park outside North America. The launch ceremony took place under the patronage of Prince Faisal bin Bandar, Governor of Riyadh Province, with senior officials and tourism sector leaders attending to celebrate what organisers described as a major milestone in the Kingdom’s leisure and tourism expansion.

Six Flags Qiddiya City debuted with an array of attractions designed to appeal to global visitors and local families alike, with the signature offering being Falcons Flight, a steel roller coaster that now holds records as the tallest, fastest and longest of its kind in the world. The coaster reaches speeds of roughly 155 mph and rises to approximately 640 feet, dwarfing many existing high-thrill installations. Other record-setting rides include Iron Rattler, the tallest tilt coaster, and Spitfire, the tallest inverted coaster, alongside a total lineup of 28 rides and attractions across six themed lands.

Park president Brian Machamer described Six Flags Qiddiya City as more than a collection of rides, pitching the venue as a fully immersive theme park where music, themed environments and guest experience are integrated throughout, distinguishing it from traditional amusement parks in North America. He said the design and storytelling elements aim to create a cohesive environment that extends beyond individual attractions.

The opening is a cornerstone of Qiddiya City’s broader vision as a global entertainment and cultural hub. Spanning hundreds of square kilometres on the edge of the Tuwaiq Mountains roughly 45 km from downtown Riyadh, Qiddiya is envisioned as a master-planned destination where entertainment, sports, arts and education converge. Six Flags Qiddiya City represents the first operational phase of this masterplan, with additional attractions including a water theme park, motorsport and esports facilities, performance venues and residential neighbourhoods planned over the next decade.

Officials noted that the park’s launch aligns with national priorities to diversify the economy under Vision 2030, an ambitious strategy championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to reduce reliance on oil revenues and accelerate growth in tourism and leisure sectors. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb highlighted the significance of the Six Flags project in positioning the Kingdom on the global entertainment map, underscoring efforts to attract millions of visitors annually.

The park offers international food and retail outlets, themed entertainment spaces and technology-enhanced guest services to meet global standards. Ticket pricing was set to attract a broad demographic, with adult entry priced at around SR325 and children’s tickets at SR275, while infants under four are admitted free. Early visitor feedback pointed to enthusiastic reception, particularly for the record-breaking coasters and themed environments.

While the opening has been widely hailed as a transformative moment for entertainment in the Middle East, analysts and industry observers have also pointed to challenges. Six Flags’ broader corporate position following its merger with Cedar Fair includes ongoing portfolio evaluations and adjustments to its existing parks, which have seen closures and operational reassessments in North America. The international expansion represented by Qiddiya carries strategic importance but also introduces new operational and financial dynamics for the company.

Local business leaders have emphasised the anticipated economic impact of the park and the wider Qiddiya development, citing job creation, supply chain opportunities and tourism revenue growth. Community groups in the Riyadh region have expressed optimism about increased cultural and entertainment offerings, while some critics have raised questions about the sustainability of mega-projects in fluctuating economic conditions. Government planners maintain that phased development and diversified attractions will help ensure long-term viability.