Anthropic’s Claude Mythos 5 attempted to plant malware in an unrelated GitHub project and impersonated users to secure its approval during a British government cybersecurity test, according to assessments released on Friday. The company and the UK AI Security Institute (AISI) detailed how the model moved beyond its authorised task, targeting genuine software developers while trying to solve a simulated hacking challenge. The malicious code was rejected, […]
Agoda has received investment promotion from the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) for International Business Center activity. Agoda’s Bangkok base underscores Thailand’s potential to become a tech talent hub.
Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI, visited the office at the One Bangkok complex and met Agoda Chief Executive Omri Morgenshtern and senior management. The Bangkok site serves as Agoda’s Global Tech & Operations Hub, with systems developed in Thailand deployed across a platform that lists more than 6 million properties in 39 languages. The company employs more than 8,000 people in 25 markets.
More than half of the Bangkok staff are Thai, while about 2,000 foreign specialists come from more than 80 countries. Roles range from software engineering, data science and AI to product management, marketing and international business management.
“Thailand has a deep pool of skilled people in data analytics, IT and communications, engineering and business management, and an open work culture where people of many nationalities collaborate well,” Mr. Narit said. “Combining Thai and foreign expertise allows the company to place complex, high value-added activities in Thailand while creating opportunities to transfer knowledge, upgrade skills, and build the country’s tech ecosystem over the long term.”
Agoda’s foreign experts get help with visas and work permits in one place. The BOI, the Immigration Bureau, and the Department of Employment facilitate both through the Thailand Investment and Expat Service Center, a one-stop service at One Bangkok, where Agoda’s office is also based. That helps experts from around the world join Thai teams quickly and conveniently. It suits a business that constantly trains, coordinates, and travels internationally.
Agoda also runs a talent pipeline with Thai universities. Its Tech Camp Day, held three times a year, brings in more than 100 students per session, and its internship program takes more than 500 students a year from over 10 universities. More than 20 percent of interns have gone on to join the company.
“Working at a global technology company gives Thai professionals exposure to the standards, tools, and working methods of international teams,” Morgenshtern said. “That experience can be carried into new businesses, startups, and the upgrading of companies across industries, spreading knowledge and supporting Thailand’s long-term economic growth.”
“A global company like Agoda choosing Thailand as its main base for high-skilled technology work is an example of success in attracting investment driven by people and knowledge,” Mr. Narit said. “These investments create high-value jobs and give Thais the chance to work with experts from around the world. The skills they gain today will help them build new businesses and develop the country in the years ahead.”
Hashtag: #Thailandboardofinvestment #BOI #FDI #Investment
https://www.boi.go.th/en/index/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Established in 1966, the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has spent six decades promoting high-value investment from both foreign and Thai investors, strengthening the country’s competitiveness and driving its transition toward a sustainable, balanced new economy.
Investment Services Center – PR Section, Office of the Board of Investment (BOI)
555 Vibhavadi-Rangsit Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Tel. +66 (0) 2553 8111, Fax +66 (0) 2553 8222
The projects, filed through the first half of 2026, cover multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs), thermal graphite films, high-performance ceramics, battery and fuel-cell materials, neodymium magnets, glass and quartz fabrics for printed circuit boards, and nanomaterials for precision manufacturing. Together they mark a shift for one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies from downstream assembly toward the high-value materials on which future industries are built.
In AI computing and clean energy, lighter, more heat-resistant and more conductive materials determine how well devices perform. MLCCs are essential components in products from smartphones to AI servers, and a single high-end server can use up to 30,000 of them.
“The world is moving toward products that are smaller and lighter, yet stronger and more efficient,” said Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the Thailand Board of Investment. “Producing advanced materials in Thailand is key to building sustainable industrial capacity, reducing reliance on imports, and opening the door for Thai companies to join higher-value supply chains.”
Thailand is already a production base for leading component makers, including Japan’s Murata Electronics, which holds more than 35 percent of the global MLCC market, and Kyocera AVX Components, the world’s top tantalum capacitor maker. Among the new projects, Taiwan’s Fultech Fiber Glass makes glass fabric for printed circuit boards, including high-performance grades for AI servers. Jones Tech produces synthetic and natural graphite films that carry heat away from electronic devices.
Beyond electronics, the projects strengthen supply chains for electric vehicles, batteries, and clean energy, from BGN Thai’s coated foils for lithium-ion batteries and Phinis Well’s neodymium magnets for EV motors to Xinyuan Graphite’s bipolar plates for hydrogen fuel cells.
CoorsTek Advanced Materials, a subsidiary of US-based CoorsTek — a global leader in engineered ceramics for the semiconductor and aerospace industries — has invested in producing ceramics for automotive pressure sensors and silicon nitride balls for hybrid bearings in EVs and wind turbines. Golden Egret Cemented Carbide is making tungsten carbide powders for precision cutting tools, reinforcing Thailand’s base for high-precision manufacturing.
“The advanced materials industry taking root in Thailand today is the foundation of tomorrow’s supply chains in electronics, EVs, batteries, and clean energy,” Mr. Narit said. “The BOI will keep building this investment base, strengthening upstream materials and components, and supporting R&D, technology, and workforce development, to move Thailand from downstream to upstream production and make it the region’s advanced materials hub.”
Note: USD conversions are based on the Bank of Thailand’s average selling rate of approximately 33.76 baht per USD.
Hashtag: #Thailandboardofinvestment #BOI #FDI #Investment
https://www.boi.go.th/en/index/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Established in 1966, the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has spent six decades promoting high-value investment from both foreign and Thai investors, strengthening the country’s competitiveness and driving its transition toward a sustainable, balanced new economy.
Investment Services Center — PR Section, Office of the Board of Investment (BOI)
555 Vibhavadi-Rangsit Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Tel. +66 (0) 2553 8111, Fax +66 (0) 2553 8222
Free Admission Open for Public Registration Now
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 October 2026 – Amid the reshaping of global supply chains, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and the rise of emerging industries such as the low-altitude economy, the logistics industry is entering a new wave of smart transformation. Organised by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and funded by the Logistics Promotion Funding Scheme (LPFS) under the Maritime and Aviation Training Fund of the Transport and Logistics Bureau of the HKSAR Government, LogTech Expo 2026 will take place on 29 October (Thursday) at the InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong. Under the theme “Smart-Driven Transformation, Leading the Future of Logistics”, the Expo will bring together more than 50 logistics, supply chain and innovation and technology enterprises, alongside logistics industry leaders and experts, to share insights through a series of forums and discussions. The event will provide a one-stop platform for the industry to stay abreast of the latest logistics technology trends and developments. Admission is free, and online registration is now open.
As one of the major annual events in Hong Kong’s logistics technology sector, the Expo will feature the latest applications and achievements in smart logistics. From AI and big data analytics, smart warehousing and robotics, and automated supply chain management systems, to cross-border e-commerce logistics, green logistics, new energy transportation and drone delivery solutions, visitors will be able to experience first-hand how technology is reshaping logistics operations and helping enterprises enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Renowned Enterprises and Organisations Showcase the Entire Smart Logistics Value Chain
This year’s Expo will bring together renowned brands and organisations from the logistics and technology sectors, including SF Supply Chain, Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, Hongkong Post, Auto-ID Technology, HSM Industrial Solution, Tradelink, GS1 Hong Kong, ShipAny and Axis Communications, showcasing innovative solutions that support digital transformation and intelligent operations across the logistics industry. Visitors can explore the following technology zones:
Visitors will not only be able to learn how innovative technologies are applied in real-world business scenarios but also engage directly with solution providers and industry experts to explore opportunities for collaboration and transformation.
10 Thematic Seminars and Sharing Sessions Focus on the Future of Logistics
In addition to the exhibition, the Expo will feature 10 thematic forums and technical sharing sessions covering key industry topics including AI, supply chain digitalisation, cross-border e-commerce, the low-altitude economy and logistics innovation.
The opening seminar, “Smart Tools for Logistics: Practical AI Applications and Insights”, will be moderated by Ryan IP, Vice President and Executive Director of the Public Policy Institute of Our Hong Kong Foundation, and feature a panel comprising Professor Kee-hung LAI, Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Sunny HO, MH, JP, FCILT, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Shippers’ Council; Keno Tai-yip CHEUNG, President of The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Hong Kong; and Suki CHEUNG Shuk-ming, Chief Executive Officer of MG Ship. Together, they will discuss how AI can enhance logistics operational efficiency, drive supply chain digitalisation, and support Hong Kong’s development as a smart logistics hub.
In addition, experts from organisations including Profit Sky International Industrial, ShipAny, Tradelink, Axis Communications and GS1 Hong Kong will share real-life business cases, enabling visitors to gain deeper insights into digital twins, cross-border e-commerce, supply chain visibility and AI applications in logistics.
Promoting Cross-sector Collaboration to Shape the Future of Logistics
The Expo is supported by more than 20 industry organisations, including the Airport Authority Hong Kong, Cathay Cargo, Hong Kong Shippers’ Council, Hong Kong Logistics Association, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Hong Kong, Cyberport and the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre. It serves as an effective platform for industry exchange and business matching, fostering innovative collaboration and industry upgrading.
Admission is free. Logistics practitioners, supply chain professionals, manufacturers, e-commerce businesses, technology solution providers, academics, and members of the public interested in the development of logistics technology are welcome to attend.
Event Details
LogTech Expo 2026
Date: 29 October 2026 (Thursday)
Time: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
Venue: InnoCentre, 72 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Admission Fee: Free (Advance registration required)
Register Now: https://campaigns.hkpc.org/zh-hk/tc-rsvp-logtech_expo_2026
Exhibitor List: View Exhibitor List
Hashtag: #HKPC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.
HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.
To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.
HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.
For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – Hongkong Land Holdings Limited (“Hongkong Land”) today published Building Value That Lasts: Quantifying the Return on Climate Resilience in Real Estate. The report developed with Marsh puts a financial value on designing buildings for a changing climate. Its case study is Westbund Central, Hongkong Land’s mixed-use waterfront development of approximately 1.7 million sq. m. on Shanghai’s Huangpu River.
The report finds that the development’s resilience measures cut expected storm-surge losses by 84% and rainfall-flood losses by 88% under today’s conditions. Westbund Central’s resilience measures are expected to keep storm-surge and rainfall-flood losses in 2050 below the losses an unprotected building would face today.
Closing the resilience valuation gap
Climate risk now shapes how real estate is assessed, financed and insured. Almost every climate related disclosure acknowledges the need for adaptation, yet fewer than one in ten puts a number on it. Hongkong Land and Marsh set out to close that gap together by treating resilience as an investment with a measurable return, not a cost to be absorbed.
Resilience pays, and the reductions are large
Working with global leading insurance broker and risk advisor Marsh, Hongkong Land modelled the average annual loss (AAL) at Westbund Central from storm surge, rainfall flooding and wind. AAL is the expected yearly cost of physical damage. The modelling compared climate risks today and in 2050 for buildings with and without resilience measures beyond those required by building codes. It assumed a future in which global greenhouse-gas emissions remain high.
Without the development’s enhanced resilience measures, expected storm-surge losses would more than double and wind losses would more than triple by 2050. The measures reduce expected losses as follows:
Built for the climate of 2050
Westbund Central was engineered for projected climate conditions in 2050, rather than historical conditions. These measures significantly reduce the impact of increasing climate risk:
Insurers are raising premiums, tightening terms and withdrawing cover from exposed locations. In that market, a lower and more stable loss profile matters.
Westbund Centrals resilience features include:
The figures are conservative. They count physical damage only and exclude extreme heat, the fastest-growing hazard at the site, which the development manages through design and operations.
Michael T. Smith, Group Chief Executive of Hongkong Land, said: “Climate change is a significant force reshaping real estate. At Westbund Central, climate resilience is core to all that we do because we believe resilience and commercial performance reinforce each other. This report shows the return on that investment can be measured today, with tools that already exist. The industry no longer has any excuse not to.”
Stuart Grant, Chief Executive of Westbund Central, said: “A premium destination is a seamless one. Much of the resilience work at Westbund Central is deliberately invisible to the tenants and visitors who use it every day. Its value shows in the disruption that never reaches them. Keeping the precinct open, comfortable and trading regardless of weather conditions is how resilience facilitates commercial performance.”
Michael Li, Chairman and President of Marsh Risk China, said: “Climate risk is now a balance-sheet risk. Westbund Central shows that adaptation pays back through lower loss exposure and stronger access to capital. As a risk orchestrator, Marsh matches protection needs to capital flows, helping clients quantify resilience and close the valuation gap.”
A method for the industry
The report is offered as a method others can apply, not just as an account of one development. It traces how climate risk can be assessed from site selection through to operations and linked to financial outcomes. It calls on the industry to:
For further details, please see the full report which is available for download [here].
Hashtag: #HongkongLand
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Hongkong Land’s Westbund Central is the Group’s largest-ever single investment. Scheduled to complete in phases up until 2028, it is an US$8 billion development encompassing approximately more than 1.7 million sq. m. of prime mixed-use property strategically located at Shanghai’s Xuhui Waterfront. It is a flagship development of Hongkong Land’s prime commercial properties’ CENTRAL Series. The ultra-premium integrated commercial property includes 240,000 sq. m of retail space, 650,000 sq. m. of premium Grade A offices, 160,000 sq. m. of high-end waterfront luxury residences, two hotels (55,000 sq. m.) and over 50,000 sq. m. of cultural and art venues.
Hongkong Land is a major listed property development, investment and management group. It focuses on developing, owning and managing premium and ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. With over US$50 billion in assets under management, Hongkong Land’s ultra-premium mixed-use real estate footprint spans over 1.97 million sq. m. lettable area in operation and 1.43 million sq. m. lettable area under development, with flagship mixed-use projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. Established in 1889, Hongkong Land takes a long-term view, investing significantly alongside its capital partners and concentrating its portfolio where it can create the most value for tenants, customers and investors. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Singapore and Bermuda. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.
Marsh
Marsh (NYSE: MRSH) is a global leader in risk, reinsurance and capital, people and investments, and management consulting, advising clients in 130 countries. With more than 95,000 colleagues, Marsh helps build the confidence to thrive through the power of perspective. For more information, visit marsh.com, or follow us on LinkedIn and X.
By Emma McDermott ATT, Founder of Global Tax Consulting Dubai’s lack of personal income tax is one of the main attractions for British professionals considering a move to the UAE. Combined with the employment opportunities, lifestyle and relative proximity to the UK, it is easy to understand why so many people are making the move. However, relocating to Dubai does not automatically mean that you stop […]
Louis Vuitton unveils in October 2026 a spectacular hoarding inspired by one of the House’s most emblematic themes: the Art of Travel. Throughout the refurbishment, the façade is transformed into a grand train station, evoking the romance and golden age of travel. In celebration of the 130rh anniversary of the Monogram, this reimagined station will also be decorated with the House’s distinctive Monogram motif. Conceived as a tribute to the House’s enduring fascination with travel, and as a nod to Hong Kong’s comprehensive transportation history, the installation brings together heritage, imagination and architectural presence. In keeping with Louis Vuitton’s commitment to more mindful creation, all materials used in the construction of the façade will later be reused or recycled. Designed to capture the city’s vibrant energy, this striking installation will be established as a new monument for all.
Hashtag: #LouisVuitton
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Since 1854, Louis Vuitton has brought unique designs to the world, combining innovation with style, always aiming the finest quality. Today, the House remains faithful to the spirit of its founder, Louis Vuitton, who invented a genuine “Art of Travel” through luggage, bags and accessories which were as creative as they were elegant and practical. Since then, audacity has shaped the story of Louis Vuitton. Faithful to its heritage, Louis Vuitton has opened its doors to architects, artists and designers across the years, all the while developing disciplines such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches, jewellery, beauty, and fragrance. These carefully created products are testament to Louis Vuitton’s commitment to fine craftsmanship.
For further information: www.louisvuitton.com
Technology companies were responsible for the largest share of people affected by third-party data breaches, according to new findings from risk advisory firm Kroll. Kroll’s 2026 Data Breach Outlook, published on Thursday, found that 69% of individuals affected in incidents it handled between June 2025 and June 2026 had been exposed through breaches involving third parties. Of that group, 79% were linked to compromises in the technology […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Prime Minister is entitled to criticise the Leader of the Opposition forcefully, but the dignity of the office calls for a distinction between robust political criticism and personal ridicule. Nevertheless, PM Narendra Modi ridiculed his rival LoP Rahul Gandhi on 22 October 2026 at a World Summit organised by NDTV, where […]
The article Prime Minister Ridiculing Leader Of Opposition At World Summit Is Ridiculous appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
French health authorities have confirmed the world’s first documented human infection with Shamonda virus in a severely immunocompromised patient who died earlier this month, while emphasising that no wider public health threat has been identified. The patient was receiving treatment for a serious underlying illness at Hospices Civils de Lyon and died in early October. Officials announced the finding on Thursday, saying investigations were continuing into the […]
By Bhasha Singh New defence partnerships are emerging across the world. Their purpose is not merely to strengthen military capabilities but also to reduce dependence on other countries for weapons production and technology. On October 21, Türkiye, Pakistan, Indonesia and Qatar signed the Badr Memorandum of Understanding in Doha, the capital of Qatar. Under this […]
The article From Mecca To Badr: New Defence Alliances And The Questions Facing India appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – LeapThought and Google Cloud today announced a strategic partnership to bring sovereign, domain-native AI to the owners and operators of critical building infrastructure, giving them control of their data and sharper decision-making across the full value chain, from delivery through operations.
The partnership has two priorities. The first is value chain integration, which connects everyone involved in delivering and running an asset — owners, operators, developers, consultants, contractors, and suppliers — on one governed platform. The second is security and sovereignty: owners can keep control of their data, within compliant, standardized frameworks that can be repeated from one program to the next.
FULCRUMHQ, LeapThought’s globally recognized Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD) platform, gives infrastructure owners the option to run on Google Cloud, including Google’s sovereign, air-gapped solutions for defense, public sector, and private sector environments requiring high security. At its core is GENIEHQ, LeapThought’s own Industrial AI, embedded directly into the platform and built to reason over the structured and unstructured data that defines a capital program — BIM models, GIS and geospatial data, ERP financials, schedules, contracts, reality capture, telemetry, and data from field robotics and sensors. The partnership pairs GENIEHQ with Google Cloud’s Gemini models, giving owners and their delivery teams natural-language access to that data across a project and a portfolio.
The partnership delivers on these two priorities as follows:
1. Value Chain Integration: One Governed Record, Natural-Language Insight
Major capital and building infrastructure programs span owners, operators, developers, consultants, contractors, and suppliers — each typically working in separate systems, with design, construction, and operational data fragmented across handovers. LeapThought’s FULCRUMHQ platform brings this information together into a single governed record that follows an asset from design through operation, giving owners a consistent view across their portfolio, not just a single project.
By running FULCRUMHQ — and the GENIEHQ Industrial AI embedded within it — on Google Cloud, and integrating LeapThought’s proprietary data architecture with Google’s Gemini models, the partnership enables:
2. Security and Sovereignty: Full Control on Google Cloud’s Sovereign Solutions
For critical civil assets, defense installations, public sector agencies, and private sector owners where data cannot traverse the public cloud, LeapThought gives owners the choice to deploy on Google Cloud’s data residency solutions, including Google Cloud Data Boundary, Google Cloud Dedicated, and Google Distributed Cloud. In these environments, GENIEHQ, LeapThought’s Industrial AI embedded within FULCRUMHQ, runs alongside Gemini locally, within the owner’s chosen security boundary, ensuring zero cross-boundary exposure or unauthorized external telemetry.
“The value of an asset now lies as much in the intelligence around it as in its physical form. That intelligence belongs to the owner, and it must be secure, sovereign, and shared across the whole value chain. Demand for this is growing quickly, in Asia and around the world, and that is what brought us and Google Cloud together. We’re starting from Singapore and building toward a standard for critical infrastructure everywhere,” said Ratnakar Garikipati, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of LeapThought.
“Public sector and critical infrastructure agencies manage some of the most intricate engineering and regulatory datasets in the world. The partnership between Google Cloud and LeapThought enables project teams and portfolio owners to quickly surface actionable insights directly from complex BIM models and program data using everyday language. Combined with Google’s sovereign, air-gapped solutions, we’re providing agencies with the option to modernize project workflows while maintaining strict data governance, residency, and operational sovereignty,” said Rahul Sharma, Managing Director, APAC Public Sector, Google Cloud.
Hashtag: #LeapThought
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
LeapThought is a US technology company that builds software connecting people, data, and AI across the infrastructure lifecycle. It is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, has its Asia headquarters in Singapore, and operates across the United States, Brazil, Singapore, and New Zealand. Its FULCRUMHQ platform and embedded GENIEHQ Industrial AI serve public agencies, developers, consultants, contractors, and universities and institutes of higher learning. Clients include Singapore’s Land Transport Authority, Building and Construction Authority, and JTC. The company was founded and led by Ratnakar Garikipati.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The United Arab Emirates has formally nominated senior diplomat Lana Nusseibeh to become the next United Nations secretary-general, introducing a Middle Eastern contender into a leadership contest marked by divisions among the Security Council’s permanent members. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan submitted her nomination on Wednesday in a letter to the presidents of the General Assembly and Security Council. Nusseibeh, the […]
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – Finding a suitable flight is only one part of booking a trip. For travellers comparing regional journeys online, the final decision can also depend on what happens at checkout, from the currency displayed to whether their preferred way to pay is available.
The payment options available at checkout can influence where consumers choose to complete a purchase. According to the 2025 Global Digital Shopping Index: Singapore Edition, 68% of Singapore consumers said access to their preferred payment option influences where they shop, while 41% described it as highly influential. Credit cards, debit cards and digital wallets also ranked among consumers’ preferred payment methods for online purchases.
For travellers, this creates a simple expectation: even when the destination is overseas, checkout should not feel unfamiliar.
For travel platforms, this means convenience needs to extend beyond search and comparison to the final step of booking. Airpaz, a travel booking platform founded in 2011, adapts its booking experience to the market where the traveller is booking, supporting more than 100 payment methods, 61 currencies and 38 languages. In Singapore, available options include PayNow, alongside major credit and debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay and other payment methods.
“Travellers may be heading to the same destination, but how they prefer to complete a booking can differ significantly from one market to another,” said Wesley Wijaya, Chief of Partnership at Airpaz. “Making familiar payment options available helps keep the final step of booking as straightforward as the search itself.”
The importance of that convenience becomes even clearer as travel habits change. The Pacific Asia Travel Association‘s September 2026 Tourism in Focus report, produced with Euromonitor International, found that 11% of Gen Z travellers in APAC take day trips weekly, while 25% cite value for money as their primary trip criterion.
With Gen Z now representing nearly a quarter of total travel spending, these findings highlight the growing commercial importance of younger travellers and the emphasis they place on value when making travel decisions. For this group, the ability to compare a broad range of flights and complete payment using a familiar method can help make the overall booking journey more convenient and easier to repeat.
This is where breadth of choice also becomes important. Airpaz provides access to more than 450 airlines and over 600,000 routes worldwide, giving travellers options across short regional getaways as well as longer international journeys. Popular regional routes available through the platform include Singapore–Kuala Lumpur and Singapore–Bangkok.
“Convenience is about more than comparing fares,” Wesley added. “It is also about how well a platform supports travellers throughout the booking journey, from evaluating their options to completing a transaction. Access to 24/7 live chat and travel protection options can provide an added layer of reassurance, particularly when plans change or travellers need support along the way.”
Whether it is a short regional getaway or a longer holiday, payment flexibility gives travellers another layer of choice once they have found the fare, schedule and route that suit their plans. Airpaz also offers reschedule and refund add-ons, with 24/7 live chat available to support travellers when plans change after booking.
Travellers can compare available flight and booking options through Airpaz.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Airpaz is a Jakarta-headquartered travel booking platform founded in 2011. The company offers flight bookings, hotel and accommodation reservations, and activity bookings. Its mobile apps for iOS and Android support multiple currencies and languages, helping travellers plan and book in a more localised way. Airpaz partners with airlines and accommodation providers worldwide and aims to make travel planning simple, affordable and seamless from search to booking. Visit Airpaz to explore available travel options.
Yesterday (October 21), the FMM issued the 2026 APEC Finance Ministers’ Joint Statement, reaffirming the commitment to building an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040 for the prosperity of all our people and future generations.
Minister of Finance and chair of the 2026 FMM, Lan Fo’an, said that all parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, uphold multilateralism, and deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial affairs, with a view to contributing to regional economic and financial stability and long-term sustainable growth.
Earlier, John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, welcomed participants to the FMM.
“This is a historic occasion for Hong Kong. The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting – part of APEC China 2026 – is taking place in our city for the very first time. We are honoured to support this significant international event, which brings together the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, representing some three billion people and accounting for over 60 per cent of global GDP,” Mr Lee said.
“Under the unique ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country, and have a legal and regulatory regime similar to most of the world’s top financial hubs.”
Speaking during the discussion sessions, Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, said that amid geopolitical tensions and uncertainties over trade policies, Asia-Pacific economies should strengthen co-operation to maintain the smooth flow of trade and investment, while guarding against financial risks and nurturing long-term growth drivers.
He said that Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, and make full use of its diverse financing channels and professional services as an international financial centre to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”.
“Regionally, we need open channels for trade and investment, not new barriers. Connected markets allow capital to reach productive uses and technologies be adopted across borders,” Mr Chan said during a plenary session on Global and Regional Economic and Financial Outlook (October 20).
“Our collective task is to safeguard stability while strengthening the foundations for lasting prosperity. Hong Kong, China stands ready to work with fellow economies to seize opportunities, manage risks and support more resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth across the Asia Pacific.”
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) held two thematic seminars (October 20) on “Fostering a digitalised, inclusive and sustainable supply chain ecosystem through finance” and “Mobilising capital for nature: scaling finance and regional cooperation across APEC” respectively.
In his welcoming remarks at the seminars, Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, said: “In an era of profound economic transformation and evolving global challenges, prosperity will not be secured by any economy acting alone. It will be built through partnership, innovation and resilience. I am therefore delighted that this seminar brings together regulators, business leaders and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region for meaningful exchanges on how we can unlock new opportunities, strengthen financial resilience, and drive sustainable growth for all.”
Following the conclusion of the FMM, Mr Lee and other officials met Mr Lan at Government House to exchange views on economic and financial development of the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong. Mr Lee expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the country for its trust in and support for Hong Kong, as well as its strong affirmation of Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.
During the FMM, a diverse range of tours and visits were arranged for members of delegations from participating economies and international organisations to enjoy the city’s cultural heritage and unique charm as an international metropolis.
The itineraries included visits to the Peak, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Palace Museum, Xiqu Centre, Chinese Culinary Institute and Ocean Park as well as a boat tour to enjoy the renowned views of Victoria Harbour.
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #APEC #FMM
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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Central banks are increasing gold reserves and shifting bullion between international vaults, with new industry data showing a sharp rise in purchases and growing interest in reducing dependence on individual storage centres. The World Gold Council says official institutions bought an average of approximately 1,000 tonnes annually over the four years preceding its 2026 survey, compared with roughly 500 tonnes a year during […]
By Nitya Chakraborty U.S. Secretary of state Marco Rubio’s visit to India this week and talks with the Indian corporate leaders including Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani have roused unusual interest in the country’s business circles as also among diplomats globally. There are two aspects. First, Rubio gave priority to his visit to Jamnagar and […]
The article Marco Rubio, Mukesh Ambani, Elon Musk And Gautam Adani appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
Aldar Education has signed a memorandum of understanding with education technology company Toddle to introduce a unified learning management system across its 13 operated schools in Abu Dhabi, consolidating teaching, assessment and reporting while incorporating artificial intelligence into classroom activities. The agreement, announced on Thursday, October 22, will establish a common digital platform for schools delivering British, American and International Baccalaureate curricula. Implementation will proceed in phases, […]
An annual global awards programme affiliated with the World Travel Awards, the World Culinary Awards celebrates excellence and innovation across the culinary industry.
The accolade recognises Vietnam Airlines’ continued investment in its inflight dining experience as part of its ambition to achieve five star service standards by 2030. Drawing on Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage and locally sourced ingredients, the airline’s menus bring together regional specialities, contemporary cooking techniques and thoughtful presentation. Dishes are tailored to individual routes and cabin classes, taking into account passenger preferences and the unique demands of dining at altitude.
From Pho and Hue style beef noodle soup to Quang style noodles and Banh Mi Hoi An, iconic Vietnamese dishes feature prominently on Vietnam Airlines’ menus. Each dish is carefully crafted to retain its authentic flavours, taking into account how changes in taste perception at altitude can affect the inflight dining experience. Vietnam Airlines also works closely with its catering partners and cabin crew to ensure consistent food quality, serving temperatures and presentation across its flights.
Beyond its signature dishes, Vietnam Airlines showcases the country’s agricultural diversity through locally grown produce. Seasonal ingredients include strawberries and plums from Son La, lychees from Luc Ngan, egg lychees and longan from Hung Yen, macadamia nuts from Dien Bien, cashews from Dong Nai, and dragon fruit and melons from Lam Dong. The selection varies according to seasonal availability and inflight catering requirements.
In the first nine months of 2026, Vietnam Airlines and its affiliated catering companies used a total of 2,260 tonnes of domestically grown fruits and vegetables, supporting local producers and bringing the flavours of Vietnam to passengers on board.
The airline also works with local authorities to share the stories behind these ingredients and the communities that produce them. Through Heritage magazine, inflight entertainment and other communication channels, passengers can discover the origins of the food served on board and the regional traditions behind each speciality.
Dang Anh Tuan, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, said: “This award is a proud milestone for Vietnam Airlines and a testament to our commitment to delivering an exceptional inflight dining experience. It also underscores the international appeal of Vietnamese cuisine and its potential to connect travellers with our country’s cultural identity. As Vietnam’s national flag carrier, we see every journey as an opportunity to share the richness of our culinary heritage, the diversity of our regional produce and the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality. As we work towards achieving five-star service standards by 2030, we remain focused on meeting the highest international standards while preserving the distinctive Vietnamese character that sets our service apart. Ultimately, we want every meal on board to be a memorable part of the journey and a reason for passengers to fly with us again.”
Beyond inflight dining, Vietnam Airlines incorporates Vietnamese cultural elements throughout the passenger journey, from airport services and Lotus lounges to its onboard products and services. The golden lotus in its brand identity, flight attendants’ traditional ao dai uniforms and the Lac bird motif on its aircraft all reflect the country’s heritage. Vietnamese cuisine adds another dimension to this cultural experience, introducing international passengers to the country’s regional flavours and culinary traditions.
Through these efforts, Vietnam Airlines continues to promote Vietnam’s cultural heritage and share its distinctive identity with the world as the country’s national flag carrier.
Hashtag: #VietnamAirlines
http://www.vietnamairlines.com/
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Government websites across Europe were temporarily shut down on Wednesday as authorities rushed to contain two critical vulnerabilities in PHP, the programming language supporting a substantial share of the world’s websites. The emergency prompted precautionary outages affecting public services in the Netherlands, Finland, France and Germany, while PHP developers released security updates and urged operators to install them immediately. Cybersecurity authorities warned that vulnerable servers could allow […]
Abu Dhabi emerged as the leading centre of sovereign investment activity in the Middle East during the first nine months of 2026, with state-backed funds accelerating acquisitions, consolidating strategic assets and expanding international investments despite geopolitical uncertainty. New figures from investment research firm Global SWF show that Mubadala Investment Company deployed $26.2 billion between January and September, making it the most active sovereign investor in the Gulf. […]
US cybersecurity authorities have warned that SafePay ransomware operators have compromised at least 600 organisations worldwide, including critical infrastructure providers, and urged businesses to strengthen network defences against further attacks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued the joint advisory on Tuesday alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigation, US Secret Service and law enforcement partners in Britain and Germany. It describes SafePay as one of the […]
