KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 August 2024 – In celebration of Malaysia Day, inDrive, the global ride-hailing platform, and Kedai Kopi Malaya, the beloved local food brand, are teaming up to offer Malaysians a special treat! This exciting collaboration highlights the perfect blend of convenience and culinary delight, bringing together two essential elements of Malaysian culture—getting around and enjoying great food.

Sharing the same commitment to enriching Malaysians’ daily lives through unique experiences, inDrive and Kedai Kopi Malaya are ready to elevate the celebration with irresistible rewards. From 1 September to 30 September 2024, users who download and use the inDrive app can enjoy a 10 percent discount on their total bill and a complimentary Cendol at any eight Kedai Kopi Malaya outlets across the Klang Valley. Eligible inDrive users are able to redeem these rewards by presenting their ride history at participating outlets.

Govin Kumaar, Business Development Lead, inDrive Malaysia, expressed excitement for the campaign, stating, “Ride-hailing and local cuisine are central to Malaysians’ lives, making this collaboration perfect for Malaysia Day. By partnering with Kedai Kopi Malaya, we hope to bring Malaysians together, whether it is travelling to their favourite eatery or sharing a meal with loved ones. We are also proud to support local brands like Kedai Kopi Malaya, which play a vital role in preserving our culinary heritage.”

Shankar Muniandy, Senior Operation Manager, Kedai Kopi Malaya added, “Partnering with inDrive for this Malaysia Day campaign is a celebration of our shared values and traditions. At Kedai Kopi Malaya, we bring together the nostalgic charm of our 1948 roots with the vibrancy of modern Malaysia. This collaboration allows us to connect with Malaysians in a meaningful way, blending the convenience of today with the warmth of heritage, offering an experience that’s both comforting and contemporary.”

During this season of unity, relax and savour your favourite local delights with inDrive and Kedai Kopi Malaya. For more information, please visit inDrive’s Facebook Page and Kedai Kopi Malaya’s Facebook Page.


Hashtag: #indriveMalaysia #KedaiKopiMalaya #Malaysiaday


https://indrive.com/en-my
https://www.linkedin.com/company/indrive
https://www.facebook.com/groups/indrivemalaysia/
https://www.instagram.com/indrive.my/?hl=en
https://kedaikopimalaya.com/

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

inDrive

inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 240 million times, and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2022 and 2023. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance and courier delivery. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.

inDrive operates in 750 cities in 46 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging social injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030. It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of inVision, its non-profit arm. inVision’s community empowerment programs help to advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality and other vital initiatives.

Kedai Kopi Malaya

Kedai Kopi Malaya is a contemporary kopitiam that seamlessly integrates Malaysia's rich cultural heritage with modern-day appeal. Rooted in history dating back to 1948, when the co-founder’s grandfather began the kopitiam trade in Penang, Kedai Kopi Malaya continues to serve time-honoured recipes passed down through generations. The café’s design pays homage to traditional elements, featuring marble-top tables, enamel lighting, and classic décor that evoke a sense of nostalgia. With eight strategically located outlets across the Klang Valley, Kedai Kopi Malaya offers a unique dining experience that honours the past and harbours optimism for the future.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 August 2024 - Sun Life is proud to announce title sponsorship of ART021 HONG KONG Contemporary Art Fair, marking the highly anticipated debut of this prestigious art fair in Hong Kong, following its acclaimed successes in mainland China with over 20 international-grade art fairs hosted over the past decade.

• Past – Every Step Makes a Mark

• Present – Leading with Foresight

• Future – Leading the Way to a Sustainable Future

• Dates: August 30 – September 1, 2024
• Location: Phillips Asia Headquarters, 3/F, WKCDA Tower, West Kowloon Cultural District, 8 Austin Road, West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong
• Hours: August 30 (3:00 pm – 8:00 pm), August 31 (1:00 pm – 8:00 pm), September 1 (1:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

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

About Sun Life

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, Mainland China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of June 30, 2024, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1.46 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF. Sun Life Financial Inc. is the holding company of Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. Sun Life Hong Kong Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada.

• All 80 foundations, including monopiles and transition pieces, successfully installed
• Final installation phase has begun
• Leading in localization and environmental responsibility

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

About Skyborn Renewables

Skyborn is an accomplished offshore wind developer and operator with more than 20 years' experience, headquartered in Germany. Our capabilities cover the entire offshore wind value chain, including greenfield development, engineering and design, procurement, financing, commercialization / corporate power purchase agreements, construction management, as well as operations and asset management. Skyborn is a portfolio company of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a world-leading independent global infrastructure investor with headquarters in New York, USA.

For more information, visit www.skybornrenewables.com

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 August 2024 - The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and WiseNet Asia, a talent solutions and consultant company, today launched the SUSS Success Academy in Kuala Lumpur, unlocking new learning and training opportunities for students in Singapore and Malaysia.

The occasion was marked by an opening ceremony at The Gardens - A St Giles Signature Hotel in Kuala Lumpur and attended by over 100 guests from both countries, including representatives from institutions of higher learning, as well as industry partners and community partners. The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Vanu Gopala Menon, High Commissioner, Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, and Dr Ong Kian-Ming, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Taylor's University.

Grounded on SUSS' commitment to learning for life and creating social impact, the Academy will serve as a key nexus for academic and industry partners from both countries.

Through the Academy's two distinct tracks – Personal Success and Professional Success – SUSS will offer opportunities for students from SUSS and other Singapore pre-tertiary and tertiary to co-learn and co-innovate with students from Malaysia. This will include various comprehensive programmes such as interdisciplinary global learning courses and student exchanges. Additionally, SUSS students will have the chance to gain professional experience in the region through work attachments and internships.

Key initiatives include:

• Student Leadership Development in Social Sustainability: In partnership Belum Eco Resort, SUSS will leverage the resort's facilities to develop a place-based education programme and experiential site, known as Camp R.A.I.S.E. Students can engage in hands-on activities and projects that emphasise practical applications of sustainability concepts.

• Overseas Sports Excellence Programme: To deepen sporting and cultural relationships, over 80 SUSS student-athletes will conduct friendlies and training sessions with Malaysian athletes across different sporting groups. Beyond its student focus, the Academy, anchored on SUSS' expertise in adult and workplace learning, will also serve its dual purpose of creating professional training and development solutions for industry partners, organisations, and institutions.

• Impact Start-Up Challenge (ISC): The ISC is a credit-bearing course that offers a platform for students from Singapore and Malaysia to learn together and experience the startup ecosystem and work collaboratively to generate ideas, test and pivot their proposal in a real-world setting. The first of such partnerships is with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, enabling both Singapore and Malaysian students to learn and explore business ideas focused on sustainability.

• Ecopreneur Innovation Programme (EIP): In collaboration with Belum Eco Resort, study trips to Orang Asli villages are being organised, where participants gain insights into the community's needs, brainstorm innovative business solutions, and develop prototypes aimed at improving their quality of life.

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

HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 August 2024 - The electric vehicle (EV) market is at a crossroads. While overall sales have surged in recent years, there's still a sense of hesitation among consumers. Are EVs really as reliable as their gasoline-powered counterparts? What happens if something goes wrong? These questions, mirroring concerns from the early days of smartphones, are top of mind for many potential buyers.

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

https://www.lg.com/hk/

https://www.facebook.com/LGHongKong

https://www.instagram.com/lghongkong/

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

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics is a global innovator in technology and consumer electronics with a presence in almost every country and an international workforce of more than 74,000. LG's four companies – Home Appliance & Air Solution, Home Entertainment, Vehicle component Solutions and Business Solutions – combined for global revenue of over KRW 84 trillion in 2023. LG is a leading manufacturer of consumer and commercial products ranging from TVs, home appliances, air solutions, monitors, automotive components and solutions, and its premium LG SIGNATURE and intelligent LG ThinQ brands are familiar names world over. Visit www.LGnewsroom.com for the latest news.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 August 2024 - Fintech investments in China made a modest recovery towards the end of 2023 and trickled over into 2024. Among the top ten fintech deals in ASPAC, five originated from Chinese Mainland and Chinese Hong Kong. Despite the regulatory hiccups in China, fintech is poised to remain a durable investment choice with bright spots in crypto, consumer payment systems and lending platforms, according to KPMG's Pulse of Fintech H1'24 report.

Fintech investment in the ASPAC region recorded USD3.8 billion in H1'24 across 438 deals, with China recording a total fintech investment of USD624 million. Consumer finance and lending companies contributed over half of deal value in Q1. China recorded the largest deals in the region during H1'24, with USD280.9 million raised by the capital markets solutions firm Yi'an Enterprise. This was followed by USD209 million raised by the India-based personal loan platform KreditBee, and USD195 million raised by the Thailand-based digital financial solutions company Ascend.

ASPAC region focused more heavily on the development and launch of digital currencies and real-world digital asset tokenization. Major hubs including Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan in particular have been working to balance innovation and regulation in a way that protects investors rights and these jurisdictions will continue to explore and approve activities that blend traditional finance with decentralized finance.

AI continued to grow on the radar of both fintech investors and fintechs, following a trend seen broadly both across ASPAC and globally. During H1'24, the AI focus came predominantly from traditional financial institutions looking to leverage AI to drive operational improvements and efficiencies. Fintechs in the region have also enhanced the emphasis of any AI components of their solutions and offerings, although many of these solutions remain quite nascent, with more sophisticated applications yet to come.

Andrew Huang, Head of Fintech, KPMG China, says: "A number of financial institutions in China have introduced AI-driven applications, such as digital customer service providers and AI robots to help answer questions. Some have also started to use generative AI internally to help with the compilation of computer code for software design and other limited use cases. During H2'24, we will likely continue to see these kinds of activities grow, many with the help of fintechs, but it will likely take time before any applications really mature."

As part of the Five Finance strategy, China's central government is working to encourage financial institutions to support startups in technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance — which could lead to additional investments over time. ESG finance came under the spotlight in H1'24 given the USD150 million raise by ESG financial solutions platform MioTech.

Barnaby Robson, Head of Value Creation, KPMG China, says: "While deal volumes remain relatively low, we feel there is a positive change in sentiment around fintech. In the Chinese Mainland, efforts are being made to better connect international payments providers into the Chinese payment ecosystems, with some companies receiving payment licence approvals."

Despite the regulatory uncertainties in the cryptocurrency space in Mainland, fintech is poised to remain a durable investment choice with bright spots in crypto, consumer payment systems and lending platforms. Crypto remain a cornerstone investment choice as blockchain is positioned as a strategic technological innovation in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).

Meanwhile, Hong Kong is actively cultivating a regulatory framework to support cryptocurrency exchanges and other crypto-related activities. During H1'24, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority launched the next phase of its e-HKD pilot project. The city is aiming to position itself as a global hub for digital assets, with initiatives to attract crypto firms and enhance its financial ecosystem.

Hashtag: #KPMG

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

About KPMG China

KPMG China has offices located in 31 cities with over 14,000 partners and staff, in Beijing, Changchun, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dalian, Dongguan, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Hefei, Jinan, Nanjing, Nantong, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Wuhan, Wuxi, Xiamen, Xi'an, Zhengzhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. Working collaboratively across all these offices, KPMG China can deploy experienced professionals efficiently, wherever our client is located.

KPMG is a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited ("KPMG International") operate and provide professional services. "KPMG" is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organization or to one or more member firms collectively.

KPMG firms operate in 143 countries and territories with more than 265,000 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. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities.

KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.

In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in the Chinese Mainland. KPMG was also the first among the Big Four in the Chinese Mainland to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership, as of 1 August 2012. Additionally, the Hong Kong firm can trace its origins to 1945. This early commitment to this market, together with an unwavering focus on quality, has been the foundation for accumulated industry experience, and is reflected in KPMG's appointment for multidisciplinary services (including audit, tax and advisory) by some of China's most prestigious companies.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 August 2024 - The Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre (APAS) announced that "5G-enabled Autonomous People Mover Service in a Residential Park" pilot programme has officially launched following approximately two years of meticulous planning and technological research, like the collection of high-definition maps, artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm development, simulation testing, debugging and most importantly, safety tests. With Movement Permit for a Vehicle secured, the field tests at Fairview Park will commenced on 26 August. The programme received funding from the HKSAR Government's Smart Traffic Fund and enjoyed the full support of Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings Limited (Kwoon Chung), TriTech Distribution Limited (Tritech), a subsidiary of MTT Group Holdings Limited, as well as the Fairview Park Property Management Ltd. and its Management Advisory Committee. It will serve as a reference point for transport officials and the local industry for developing self-driving right-hand drive vehicles, in order to better prepare for the wider adoption of autonomous driving technology in public transportation in the future.

The two autonomous shuttle light buses in the pilot programme have passenger capacities of 12 and 8 respectively, with the 8-seater being equipped with a wheelchair space. Both vehicles feature sensors to detect in real-time if the passengers are wearing their seat belts properly. The low-floor design not only facilitates senior citizens and wheelchair users, but also enhances the children's safety during boarding and alighting. The operator has purchased third-party insurance for the vehicles to protect passengers. During the pilot project period, APAS will conduct monthly inspections of the vehicle and autonomous driving system, and collect relevant data to improve the service.

Dr Lawrence CHEUNG, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, says, "Since APAS began innovating autonomous driving in 2018, we have always dedicated to collaborating with the industry, academia, and technology institutions to commercialise the results of research and development (R&D) innovations, thereby promulgating the development of Hong Kong vehicle technology industry. With the support of Kwoon Chung, TriTech and Farview Park Property Management Ltd, we can launch the pilot programme at Fairview Park. We expect this to benefit the local industry by grooming talent and accumulating experience to facilitate the use of autonomous vehicles, thereby enabling the wider adoption of autonomous driving technologies in public transport soon. APAS will continue striving alongside the 'Hong Kong Smart City Blueprint 2.0' by providing talent and experience to further speed up the implementation of wider application of autonomous vehicle technology in Hong Kong, as well as promoting the collaboration between Government, industry, academia and research sectors to accelerate the relevant R&D and application, making Hong Kong a more liveable, sustainable city."

Mr Timothy WONG, Chief Operating Officer, Kwoon Chung says that the group has been actively exploring autonomous electric light bus services in recent years and is also glad to see an increased number of infrastructure projects to introduce autonomous electric vehicles and transport systems. "At Kwoon Chung, our smart mobility initiatives shoulder the responsibilities of a technical enabler, localisation and commercialisation. By positioning as a technical enabler, Kwoon Chung is committed to applying advanced technologies in the domain of smart mobility, and promoting industry innovation and development. Our vision is to become a pioneer in the localisation and commercialisation of autonomous driving, marrying technological advancements with the demands of Hong Kong and the world while nurturing the implementation and commercialisation of technology."

As one of the largest private residential villa estates in Hong Kong, Fairview Park has long and wide main carriageways while its low-density residential environment makes it ideal for the trial of autonomous driving. This pilot project deploys two autonomous driving shuttle light buses with Cellular-Vehicle-to-Everything (CV2X) that run through the southeastern and northwestern parts of Fairview Park, providing residents with an additional option on top of the existing two estate shuttle bus routes. During the two-month trial period, the two autonomous driving shuttle light buses will operate between 9am and 6pm on Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays), with seven bus stops for residents within the estate. The approximately 2.5km-long circular route observes bus stops #3 and #9 in a clockwise direction.

The Fairview Park estate management believes these shuttle light buses can potentially provide residents with extra transportation options, and express their gratitude to the research and development team for selecting Fairview Park as the pilot project for 5G autonomous driving implementation. Fairview Park hopes to integrate 'green technology' and 'Smart City' concepts through application of 'smart mobility' technologies. The estate aims to create a greener and more livable environment for residents, as well as upgrading Fairview Park to be in line with future developments of the Northern Metropolis area. The estate management hopes to continue cooperation with government and private sector through technological innovation, striving to create a sustainable community model and participate in the Smart City development concept for Hong Kong.

Each autonomous driving shuttle light bus in the pilot project is equipped with various sensors, a 5G receiver and AI technologies, from high-definition digital maps, object detection, route planning and vehicle dynamic control (VDC) and more. They are also equipped with CV2X function that integrates cameras, light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and GPS positioning system to enhance the light bus's localisation accuracy. Furthermore, the autonomous driving vehicles can detect surrounding vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other obstructions, and respond appropriately to avoid any collusions.

Meanwhile, the approved Movement Permit for a Vehicle stipulates a speed limit of 30km/hr for the autonomous driving shuttle light buses in this project. A safety driver will be on board on standby on each trial vehicle, overtaking the controls manually in cases of emergencies for the safety of passengers. Assigned by Kwoon Chung, the safety drivers are holders of valid and designated driving licenses in Hong Kong. They must complete compulsory, professional training conducted by Kwoon Chung to ensure they understand the operation, functions and working guidelines of the autonomous driving shuttle light buses and have the written recognition from the technology developer. During the pilot programme's service hours, a safety officer will be stationed at the bus terminus to monitor the driving data in real-time through the 5G wireless network, and assist the safety drivers in handling any emergencies.

The "5G-enabled Autonomous People Mover Service in a Residential Park" was launched in August 2022. It is coordinated by APAS, who also supports the trial of various autonomous driving technologies and the charging of the autonomous driving shuttle light buses. It is supported by the Government's Smart Transport Fund. For details of the project, please visit: https://stf.hkpc.org:8443/psri-25-2112-ra/.

For high-resolution photos, please download via this link.

Photo Captions:

1. The pilot of "5G-enabled Autonomous People Mover Service in a Residential Park" is officially launched at Fairview Park, including two autonomous driving shuttle light buses with passenger capacities of 12 and 8 respectively. The eight-seater is equipped with a wheelchair space (small photo).
2. (From left) Mr Timothy WONG, Chief Operating Officer, Kwoon Chung; Mr Clement AU, Group General Manager and Financial Controller, Fairland Holdings; Mr WONG Leung Pak, Matthew, BBS, Chairman, Kwoon Chung; Mr DU Yonghai, General Manager, APAS; Mr LAM Sai Hung, GBS, JP, Secretary for Transport and Logistics; Dr Lawrence CHEUNG, Chief Executive Officer, APAS; Mr LIU Chun San, JP, Undersecretary for Transport and Logistics; Mr Douglas WU, Executive Director, Fairland Holdings; and Mr CHAN Yuet Chuen, Alfred, Political Assistant to the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, witness the trial run of the autonomous driving shuttle light buses.
3. Mr LAM Sai Hung, GBS, JP, Secretary for Transport and Logistics, inspecting the trial run of the "5G-enabled Autonomous People Mover in a Residential Park" at Fairview Park.

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

About Fairland Group

Fairland is a Hong Kong-based property developer founded in the 1970s, and is well-regarded for introducing to Hong Kong the house-living concept in a well-planned suburban estate. The group's renowned developments include Fairview Park near Yuen Long and Hong Lok Yuen in Tai Po. Fairview Park is the first and largest low-density suburban estate in Hong Kong, with over 5,000 house units, a community retail mall and country club, and located next to the famous Mai Po Nature Reserve. Currently, Fairland is growing the 'Spark City' series of neighborhood lifestyle and retail properties, serving the community's everyday needs such as education and restaurants. Spark City locations include Cheung Sha Wan, To Kwa Wan and Mongkok.

About Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings Limited

Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings Limited was established in 1948 and is the largest non-franchised public bus and luxury car operator in Hong Kong. It was listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 1996 and operates over 1,300 buses and 400 limousines. Its subsidiary, KC Bus, holds a strong market position in areas such as school bus services and tourist bus services. Additionally, Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings owns subsidiary companies including New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited, Lantau Tours Limited and Intercontinental Limousine Company Limited, providing services such as Lantau Island franchised buses, cross boundary non-franchised buses, and luxury car services.

The group is committed to delivering high-quality, safe, and convenient transportation options, including cross boundary bus routes between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. It also offers limousine rental services for occasions such as weddings, business purposes, and tourism, as well as airport transfers and professional chauffeur services.

With its long-standing involvement and development in the transportation industry in Hong Kong, Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings has become an important player in the city. The company continues to expand its business scope to meet market demands and provide reliable transportation choices for passengers.

About the Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre

The Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre (APAS) is set up under the R&D Centre Programme of the Innovation and Technology Commission and was hosted by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC). The Centre continues to undertake market-led R&D programmes as well as commercialises R&D results in collaboration with industry, universities and technology institutes in the area of automotive parts and accessory systems. The aim is to enhance the capabilities and competitiveness of Hong Kong's automotive parts and accessory systems industry, which is made up of different industry sectors including the foundation industries.

About Hong Kong Productivity Council

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a multi-disciplinary organisation established by statute in 1967, to promote productivity excellence through relentless drive of world-class advanced technologies and innovative service offerings to support Hong Kong enterprises. As a market-driven applied research and development organisation, HKPC promotes new industrialisation in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area and facilitates the development of new productive forces, leveraging innovation and technology (I&T), as well as bolstering Hong Kong to be an international I&T centre and a smart city. The Council offers comprehensive innovative solutions for Hong Kong industries and enterprises, enabling them to achieve resources and productivity utilisation, effectiveness and cost reduction, and enhance competitiveness in both local and overseas marketplaces. The Council partners and collaborates with local industries and enterprises and world-class R&D institutes to develop applied technology solutions for value creation. It also benefits a variety of sectors through product innovation, technology transfer, and commercialisation, bringing enormous business opportunities ahead. HKPC's world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades.

In addition, HKPC offers SMEs and startups immediate and timely assistance in coping with the ever-changing business environment, and strengthens talent nurturing and Hong Kong's competitiveness with FutureSkills training for enterprises and academia to enhance digital capabilities and STEM competencies.

For more information, please visit HKPC's website: www.hkpc.org/en

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 August 2024 - One Holland Village mall has unveiled its latest artwork, Singapore Sun by Dale Chihuly. Situated at the mall's Village Green, the stunning artwork rounds up the carefully curated medley of seven art creations by notable local and international artists, and eight public art benches. Forming part of an Art Trail unique to One Holland Village, the artworks have transformed the mall into a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and the local community.

• Local Artists

• International Artists

• Commissioned Designers

• MILL Public Art Bench Design Competition Winners

https://www.fareastmalls.com.sg/one-holland-village

https://www.facebook.com/onehollandvillage

https://www.instagram.com/onehollandv/

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

About Sekisui House Limited (Sekisuihouse.co.jp)

Sekisui House Limited is the largest leading housing company in Japan with involvement in a variety of real estate developments, from residential homes to the development of mixed-use properties and master-planned communities. Founded in 1960, the company has built a cumulative 2.4 million houses. Sekisui House, headquartered in Osaka, also has offices in Australia, China, Singapore and the USA.

About Sino Group (Sino.com)

Sino Group is one of the leading property developers in Hong Kong with core business in developing residential, office, industrial and retail properties for sale and investment. The Group is also a major player in hotel investment and management, club management, property management, car park operations as well as environmental and security services. With a team of over 10,000 dedicated professionals, Sino Group strives to consistently deliver quality properties and services that surpass the expectations of customers.

About Far East Organization (www.fareast.com.sg)

Far East Organization is a Christian Enterprise, which develops real estate and operates businesses by serving with grace, love, integrity and honesty. Together with its Hong Kong-based sister company Sino Group, they are one of Asia's largest real estate groups, with operations in Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong and China. Far East Organization is the largest private property developer in Singapore, having developed over 780 developments across all segments of real estate including 55,000 private homes in Singapore since its establishment in 1960. Far East Organization includes three listed entities: Far East Orchard Limited, Far East Hospitality Trust and Yeo Hiap Seng Limited. Far East Organization is the winner of 14 FIABCI World Prix d'Excellence awards, the highest honour in international real estate.

PHUKET, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 August 2024 - Banyan Group Residences, one of the leading and most pioneering property developers in Thailand has received an impressive 12 accolades in this year's Asia Pacific International Property Awards 2024-25, more than any other developer in the region.

The prestigious awards celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry.

"An International Property Award is a world-renowned mark of excellence and so we are thrilled to have secured no less than 12 accolades this year, said Banyan Group Founder and Executive Chairman K P Ho.

Banyan Group Residences secured the highest number of awards of any developer in Thailand.

"This recognition is a true testament to the hard work and talent of our entire team. Our dedication to innovation, exceptional design, and creating amazing experiences for our customers has led us to become a leader in Thailand's luxury development. The awards solidify our position to keep pushing the boundaries of luxury living in Asia and beyond," said Mr Ho.

The 2024-2025 International Property Awards won by Banyan Group Residences are as follows:

• Banyan Tree Grand Residences Phuket Lagoon Pool Villas: Winner – Residential Development in the category of 10-19 Units for Thailand.
• Banyan Tree Residences Beach Residences: Winner – Luxury Condominium Development for Thailand.
• Banyan Tree Residences Creston Hill: Winner across 5 categories: Development Marketing, Residential Development (20+ Units), Apartment Development, Mixed Use Architecture, and Mixed-Use Development for Thailand.
• Laguna Lakelands: Lakeview Residences: Double winner – Residential Development of 20+ Units for Thailand, and Condominium Development for Thailand.
• Banyan Group Website: Winner – Developer Website for Thailand.

• Mr. Dung Pung, Business Planning Mgr., Group Property Development, Banyan Group
• Mr. Roy Lau, SAVP, Group Property Development, Banyan Group
• Mr. KP Ho, Founder & Executive Chairman, Banyan Tree Holdings
• Mr. Stuart Reading, Managing Director, Group Property Development, Banyan Group
• Mr. Niphon Kitisook, SAVP, Development Director, Group Property Development, Banyan Group
• Ms. Angkana Sae-loo, Director of Sales, Group Property Development, Banyan Group

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

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans across 80 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of "Embracing the Environment, Empowering People" is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 August 2024 - SUNRATE, an intelligent global payment and treasury management platform announced that it has entered into a partnership with Vietnam Chamber of Commerce (VietCham Singapore) to empower Vietnamese enterprises looking to scale and operate in Singapore.

As part of the partnership, members of VietCham Singapore can now tap into the resources and expertise of SUNRATE's Singapore and Vietnam business development representatives to help them navigate the complex world of international business expansion. This includes the capabilities to make payments via SUNRATE's business account to more than 190 countries and regions, transact in 130+ currencies and enjoy global collection services available in over 30 currencies, and collect funds in over 10 major international currencies as if they were local payments.

Li Tao, Head of Growth, SUNRATE said, "As the leading global B2B payment platform for Emerging Asia, we are always exploring opportunities for like-minded partners such as VietCham Singapore. Our cutting-edge products and high-touch customer-centric services will empower and provide significant value for VietCham members as they seek to set up and scale their operations in Singapore".

Mr Max Nguyen, Director of Viet Nam of Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Singapore, said "Partnering with SUNRATE is a strategic move that enables VietCham Singapore to offer more value-added services to our members while enhancing the organization's reputation and influence. This collaboration will contribute to the growth of Vietnamese businesses in Singapore, helping them operate more efficiently and expand into international markets"

Recently, SUNRATE also announced its official launch in Vietnam, as the company continues to strengthen its global footprint, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.

Hashtag: #SUNRATE #VietChamSingapore

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About SUNRATE

SUNRATE is an intelligent global payment and treasury management platform for businesses worldwide. Since its inception in 2016, SUNRATE has been recognised as a leading solution provider and has enabled companies to operate and scale both locally and globally in 190+ countries and regions with its cutting-edge proprietary platform, extensive global network, and robust APIs.

With its global business headquarters in Singapore and offices in Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, and Shanghai, SUNRATE partners with the top global financial institutions, such as Citibank, Standard Chartered, Barclays, J.P. Morgan, and is the principal member of both Mastercard and Visa.

To learn more about SUNRATE, visit https://www.sunrate.com/

About Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Singapore

The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (https://vietcham.org.sg/), hereinafter referred to as "VietCham Singapore" was founded in 2013 with the primary objective of fostering a cohesive network for Vietnamese enterprises operating in Singapore.

Vietcham steadfastly committed to facilitating the success of their members. Should you be seeking to forge invaluable business affiliations, acquire comprehensive insights into the Singaporean market, enhance your professional acumen and sector-specific expertise, or avail of our diverse range of services, VietCham Singapore stands poised to assist.

VietCham acts as an effective bridge for individuals and organizations to promote commercial and trade relations between Vietnam and Singapore, bringing mutual benefits to both sides.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 August 2024 - The first baijiu company listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the second Chinese sauce-aroma baijiu stock being publicly listed, ZJLD Group Inc. ("ZJLD", the "Group" or the "Company", SEHK stock code: 06979. HK), is pleased to announce its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2024 ("FY2024 1H" or the "Period").

The key financial and business highlights are as follows:

	FY 2024 1H (for the six months ended June 30, 2024) (RMB'000)	FY 2023 1H (for the six months ended June 30, 2023) (RMB'000)	Increased by
Revenue	4,133,191	3,518,957	17.5%
Gross profit	2,428,682	2,037,148	19.2%
Gross profit margin	58.8%	57.9%	0.9 percentage points
Adjusted net profit (non-IFRS measure)	1,018,123	802,519	26.9%
Adjusted net profit margin (non-IFRS measure)	24.6%	22.8%	1.8 percentage points

• The flagship brand, Zhen Jiu, stands as the main growth driver, its revenue increased by 17.2% from RMB2,305.9 million to RMB2,702.2 million during the Period. It contributed around 65.4% of the overall revenue during the Period, primarily driven by the growth of premium and above price range products, namely, the Zhen 15 Series, Zhen 30 Series, and deluxe package-free series.
• The gross profit increase was primarily due to the Group's further focus on increasing the revenue contribution of products in the premium and above price range while steadily improving the overall gross margin by strategically optimizing the sales of mid-range and below product portfolios with low gross margins, and gradually replacing third-party produced base liquor with in-house production, which has lower associated costs, thereby bolstering profitability.
• As of May 2024, Zhen Jiu's high-quality base liquor reserve reached 90,000 tons, and its production capacity surpassed 41,000 tons. This places Zhen Jiu among the top three Guizhou sauce-aroma baijiu companies, marking the brand's entry into the "Mao-Xi-Zhen" era.

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About ZJLD Group Inc.

Zhen Jiu was established in 1975 in Zunyi, Guizhou, China's primary production area of sauce-aroma baijiu. In 1988, it was honored with the National Quality Award at the 5th National Wine Appreciation Conference. It is one of the "Three Representative Sauce Flavor Brands in Guizhou", along with Moutai and Xijiu. In the same year, it was announced by the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Communication Department of the Ministry of Economy and Trade, and the Great Hall of the People Management Bureau to become one of the two sauce-aroma baijiu served at state banquets.

ZJLD Group Inc. is a leading baijiu group in China that is devoted to offering baijiu products, including sauce-aroma, mixed-aroma, and strong-aroma, with sauce-aroma being its core. In terms of revenue in 2023, the Company was the third-largest private baijiu company in China, according to Frost & Sullivan statistics. The Company operates four baijiu brands in China, including Zhen Jiu and Li Du, and two leading regional names, Xiangjiao and Kaikouxiao. ZJLD prides itself on inheriting the time-honored baijiu-brewing techniques and reinvigorating them to develop iconic products. It strives to create a wide variety of aromatic and mellow baijiu products to meet the diverse preferences of consumers, seize broader market opportunities, and promote traditional Chinese baijiu culture.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 August 2024 - This August, Singapore's food scene is about to be reinvigorated with the refreshing crunch and spicy kick of kimchi. Kimchi aficionados are in for a treat with a series of events lined up from August to September, organised by the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation (aT). Established in 1967, aT has been at the forefront of deepening awareness and appreciation of Korean food products and culture in Singapore, through various events and brand partnerships.

https://www.at.or.kr

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About the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation (aT)

Established in 1967, the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation (aT) is a key government agency dedicated to advancing the global trade, export, and marketing of Korean foods and beverages. The mission of the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation (aT) is to facilitate the distribution of Korean agricultural and fishery products, enhance their competitiveness in domestic and international markets, and support the development of the agricultural and food industries. aT aims to expand exports and increase global recognition of Korean agro-fisheries products, contributing to the worldwide promotion of Korea's agricultural and food industries. Additionally, aT serves as a bridge between farmers and consumers, focusing on the sustainable development of agriculture and the food industry as a key part of its mission.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 August 2024 - The much-anticipated National University of Singapore Postgraduate by Coursework Fair 2024 (NUS PGCF 2024) returns, showcasing the various postgraduate programmes and opportunities offered by the University.

• Information Sessions
  The fair will host 12 information sessions, each focusing on distinct areas of study and research. These sessions are led by distinguished faculty members and industry experts who will offer in-depth discussions on programme specifics, potential career paths, and the unique advantages of studying at NUS. For instance, Ms Faith Yong from NUS Business School will delve into its various Master of Science (MSc) programmes, detailing how these courses are designed to prepare students for a dynamic business environment. Special sessions also feature Mr Benjamin Tey from the School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE), who will be discussing multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary MSc programmes offered through SCALE. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and receive real-time responses, making these sessions an invaluable resource for anyone considering postgraduate education.
  
  
• Booths and Direct Engagement
  In addition to the information sessions, the fair will feature 12 booths representing various NUS Schools, Faculties, Colleges, and Institutes at the event. These booths provide a platform for in-person attendees to engage directly with programme consultants and faculty members, offering a personalised touch to the exploration of potential academic paths. This direct interaction allows prospective students to gain a deeper understanding of the curriculum, admissions processes, and the support available throughout their academic journey at NUS.

• College of Design and Engineering
• Duke NUS Medical School
• Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
• Faculty of Law
• Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy
• NUS Business School
• NUS Graduate School
• NUS-ISS
• Risk Management Institute
• Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health
• School of Computing
• School of Continuing and Lifelong Education
• Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine

• Exclusive Incentives and Lucky Draw
  Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents can benefit from the recently announced 40% tuition fee rebate for more than 80 Master's Degree programmes. In addition, attendees who provide feedback on the event stand a chance to win Amazon vouchers.

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

National University of Singapore

National University of Singapore (NUS) is Asia's leading global university, renowned for excellence in education, research, and innovation. Established in 1905, NUS offers a diverse range of programmes across disciplines, blending rigorous academic theory with practical application. Our inclusive community fosters a rich exchange of ideas, preparing students for global challenges. NUS is a hub for cutting-edge research, addressing key issues from health to sustainability. Committed to holistic education and social responsibility, we empower students to become well-rounded leaders who contribute meaningfully to society.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 August 2024 - Hong Kong has secured the hosting right of the prestigious Lions International Convention in 2026, one of the world's largest service club events. With an estimated 20,000 attendees from over the globe expected to descend upon the city, this annual gathering of Lions Clubs International members promises to be a truly global and significant event.

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

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 August 2024 - The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and IT consultant company Orange Cap Innovative (OCI) today launched the SUSS Success Academy in Bangkok, creating new learning experiences and real-world training opportunities for students in Singapore and Thailand.

The occasion was marked by an opening ceremony at The Sukosol Hotel and attended by over 60 guests from both countries, including representatives from institutions of higher learning, and industry and community partners. The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Catherine Wong, Ambassador, Singapore Embassy in Bangkok and Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng Executive Director/CEO of National Innovation Agency (Public Organisation), Thailand.

Grounded in SUSS' commitment to lifelong learning and creating social impact, the Academy will serve as a key nexus for academic and industry partners from both countries.

As an IT consultant and venture builder, OCI will leverage its unique technological expertise and deep understanding of Thailand's market dynamics to support and enhance the Academy's offerings.

Through the Academy's two distinct tracks – Personal Success and Professional Success – SUSS will offer opportunities for students from SUSS and other Singapore pre-tertiary and tertiary institutions to co-learn and co-innovate with students from Thailand. This will include participation in programmes such as interdisciplinary global learning courses and student exchanges. Additionally, SUSS students will have the chance to gain professional experience in the region through work attachments and internships.

Key initiatives include:

• Student Leadership Development in Social Sustainability: In partnership with All Green Learning Centre in Khao Yai, SUSS will leverage the centre's facilities to develop a place-based education programme and experiential site, known as Camp R.A.I.S.E. By tapping on organic farms and renewable energy installations located around the premises, students will engage in hands-on activities and projects that emphasise practical applications of sustainability concepts.

• Impact Start-Up Challenge (ISC): The ISC is a credit-bearing course that provides a platform for students from Singapore and Thailand to experience the startup ecosystem, collaborate to generate ideas, and test and pivot their proposals in real-world settings. The first of these partnerships was launched with Siam University in May this year, involving 21 SUSS students and 21 Siam University students. Since 2017, this programme has impacted over 1,000 students across more than 10 cities.

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

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 August 2024 - The annual Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2024 (DELF 2024), organised by Cyberport concluded successfully yesterday. The three-day event featured rich programmes including industry forums, experiential zones, workshops, and competitions, attracting over 3,500 participants from both local and international regions, and garnered more than 280,000 views in total. Focusing on the theme "Imaginary Fairground: AI-Powered Entertainment in the Web 3.0 Era", the forum brought together over 60 international and local industry leaders and celebrity speakers to discuss with the industry the transformative potential of AI and Web 3.0 technologies in shaping the future of digital entertainment, as well as the development of arts, education, sports, lifestyle, and more. On site, there were nearly 50 interactive experiences centred on four themes: "Smart Lifestyle", "Robotics", "Sports & Gaming", and "Culture & Arts", enabling visitors of all ages to personally experience the fun of integrating digital technology with entertainment and smart living. Multiple themed workshops were also open to the public, providing opportunities to explore and learn about AI scriptwriting, music mixing, and robot programming, and to experience flight simulation and drone operation.

Cyberport is dedicated to nurturing tech talent, and one of the highlights of this year's DELF was the AI Everywhere Robotics Esports Invitational 2024, organised by the University of Hong Kong, Intel, and CETIC. The robots on the field were all assembled and programmed by the students themselves, allowing the robots to demonstrate their "footwork" on the competition field. At the same time, the student-programmed drone swarm flying performance, showcased the creative outcomes of young people in learning swarm programming, and designing flight formations and patterns.

The event also offered immersive experiences, including a VR-supported exploration of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, the sports game "Dynamic Martial World," the sports training game "REZZIL SKILLSHOT", the racing simulation game "Rev to Vertex", the virtual flight experience "ICAROS Home", the cultural experience "The Van Gogh DigiVillage", and the AR adventure "Mystic Metal Mystery", among others. These fun and interactive activities provide the public with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the virtual worlds created by Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), gaining a deeper understanding of the practical application of innovative technologies in the entertainment sector.

Dr Rocky Cheng, CEO of Cyberport, said, "As Hong Kong's digital technology flagship, Cyberport is committed to injecting new impetus into the development of the digital economy and smart city through innovation and technology. Cyberport has successfully organised 17 editions of the international Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum, aimed at driving the innovative development of the digital entertainment industry and smart living. This year's forum continues to bring together industry leaders to discuss how to unleash the potential of Web 3.0 and the huge opportunities brought by AI, leveraging technology to enhance the quality of life for individuals. We are glad to see the support from the industry and the community, who have come to explore the many applications and enjoy the combination of innovative technologies with digital entertainment."

Warren Cho, World Wide Azure Gaming Vertical Leader at Microsoft, stated in his keynote speech on the profound impact of AI on the gaming and entertainment industries. "How can we compete if you are mid-sized or indie game developers? It is very difficult. But thanks to AI, now game development has became democratized. Now you could get a similar set of tools and support that the big studios have."

During the forum at parallel tracks, Dr Peter Ng, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computing and Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, said "Talent cultivation is a key to technological progress. In DELF 2024, we had the opportunity to engage with technological talents and innovative technology demonstrations. PolyU has been recognised as The Best University for Blockchain in the world. Our teaching approach emphasises practical learning, fostering students' innovative thinking to nurture more talents for the Web3.0 technology industry."

Various exhibitors with cutting-edge technologies have gathered at the DELF 2024 Experience Zone. Among them, Felix Shang, Director of Asia-Pacific at Unitree Robotics, said, "DELF provides us with an ideal interactive platform, allowing the public to gain in-depth insights into the potential applications of AI robotics technology across various industries. Moreover, it offers us valuable opportunities to expand into the international markets, further enhancing our brand influence."

Besides, Edward Eremyan, CEO & Founder, TELEPORT Immersive Limited said, "As a startup at Cyberport, participating in DELF enables us to engage with numerous industry peers, exploring business opportunities across different sectors. Additionally, it allows us to directly showcase the results of combining AI with art to the public, providing innovative experiences and deepening societal understanding of the potential for AI development.

This year's DELF continued with the "Play-to-Earn" activity from previous years, where the public could redeem more than 300 fabulous prizes with the points they earned after completing tasks at 30 digital entertainment experience booths. These prizes included gaming laptop, cameras, speakers, game consoles, movie tickets, and dining and leisure vouchers, allowing participants to learn while having fun and exploring new technologies.

Concurrently, DELF 2024 hosted the "Elderly eSport Tournament & Experience Day". Cyberport has been organising e-sports experience activities for the elderly since 2018, with the aim of encouraging seniors to participate in e-sports, improving their physical and mental health, as well as promoting intergenerational interaction. The "NEXX Digital Entertainment Leader Awards" ceremony was held on the closing day of DELF 2024. The award recognised outstanding content creators who have successfully leveraged AI innovation and creativity in areas such as AIGC, interactive media, immersive technology, digital content, gaming, digital art, and music.


For high-resolution photos, please download via this link.

Photo 1: The Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2024 comes to a successful close with more than 3,500 participants.

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

About Cyberport:

Cyberport is Hong Kong's digital technology flagship and incubator for entrepreneurship with over 2,000 members including over 900 onsite and over 1,100 offsite start-ups and technology companies. It is managed by Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, wholly owned by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, and committed to the vision to inject new impetus into digital economy and smart city development through innovation and technology, and to connect enterprises to Mainland China and overseas markets. Cyberport strives to nurture a vibrant tech ecosystem by cultivating talents, promoting entrepreneurship among the youth, supporting start-ups, fostering technology industry development by promoting strategic collaboration with local, Mainland Chinese and international partners, and integrating new and traditional economies by accelerating digital transformation in public and private sectors.

For more information, please visit www.cyberport.hk

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 August 2024 - AIA Singapore today announced its initiative to help customers better understand their insurance policies, improve their financial literacy in a continued bid to bridge the nation's protection gap. Through this initiative, the organisation aims to encourage more Singaporeans to attain adequate protection.

Alarmingly, a recent study commissioned by AIA Singapore found that over 2 in 5 customers are not familiar with the details of their insurance policies[1]. The survey also found that the majority of customers are most likely to selectively read their policy documents. Accordingly, customers' top three reasons for skimming or not reading their policy documents are — that the information is difficult to understand, lack of time for a more thorough read, and ease of tapping into their insurance representatives for advice.

"Minimising jargon in our policy documents and simplifying them will enable everyone to better understand what their policies cover and don't cover, allowing them to identify their protection gaps."

"Enhancing financial literacy and holistic wellness can go a long way with clear communication, and we hope this initiative serves as an effective step in that direction", said Ms Irma Hadikusuma, Chief Marketing and Proposition Officer of AIA Singapore.

Bridging Singapore's Significant Protection Gap, Particularly Among the Younger Demographics

AIA Singapore's initiative is set against the backdrop of significant protection gaps in the country. There exists a 74% gap in critical illness protection and 21% gap in mortality protection, according to the 2022 Protection Gap Study by the Life Insurance Association, Singapore[2].

While young adults aged 20 to 24 and fresh graduates face significant protection gaps, external research shows that they have an interest in purchasing insurance but lack the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions[3].

Moreover, the survey found that the use of simple and plain English enables most consumers to feel more confident about purchasing insurance policies on their own[4].

"Compared to more matured generations, younger consumers tend to be more active online. In fact, our study[5] found that over half of them are likely to explore digital touchpoints to expand their knowledge about insurance."

"Alongside our efforts to continuously enhance the skills and competencies of our insurance representatives, this initiative serves as an avenue for us to enable our customers to proactively protect themselves against financial uncertainties — especially amid rising costs of living and healthcare", Ms Irma added.

AIA Singapore's commitment to enabling customers to better understand their insurance policies, will be implemented through a multi-phased approach, starting with AIA HealthShield Gold Max (AIA HSG) policy materials. Customers with AIA HSG plans will be informed progressively from 27 July 2024.

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

About AIA  

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively "AIA" or the "Group") comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR[1], Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR[2], and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$286 billion as of 31 December 2023.

AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 42 million individual policies and over 18 million participating members of group insurance schemes.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes "1299" for HKD counter and "81299" for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol "AAGIY".