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Hong Kong forges new opportunities with Kazakhstan and Central Asia

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 June 2026 – A large delegation, led by John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), is visiting Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan (June 1-6) to forge closer ties with Central Asia.

Comprising over 70 business and professional representatives from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, the delegation has already yielded significant results at its first stop in Kazakhstan.

Speaking at a business luncheon in Astana yesterday (June 2), Mr Lee highlighted that 43 memoranda of understanding (MOU) and agreements have been concluded by the visiting delegation with companies and organisations from Kazakhstan, with more agreements to come.

“They span aviation, finance and trade, innovation and technology, the digital economy, green development, and more,” Mr Lee said, adding that a Hong Kong airline plans to launch direct flights to Almaty in the first quarter of 2027.

“I believe that Kazakhstan can serve as a hub for Hong Kong to connect with the Central Asian market. In turn, Hong Kong can be Central Asia’s hub in the east and southeast Asian region,” Mr Lee said.

“By strengthening co-operation between our two hubs, we can construct a hub-to-hub co-operation model.”

On his first day of visit in Astana (June 1), Mr Lee met with top government officials including the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin.

Hong Kong SAR's Chief Executive John Lee (left) meets with the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to exchange views on deepening bilateral relations.
Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee (left) meets with the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to exchange views on deepening bilateral relations.

Mr Lee noted that Kazakhstan has been actively promoting reforms on various fronts to bring about rapid economic growth.

“As one of the world’s three major financial centres, and the world’s largest cross-boundary wealth management centre and offshore Renminbi business hub, Hong Kong can provide diversified and flexible support including capital and asset allocation for Kazakhstan’s economic reforms and infrastructure development,” Mr Lee said.

The Chief Executive also encouraged companies in Kazakhstan to leverage Hong Kong’s advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle.

“Under this unique principle, Hong Kong has its own economic, social, legal, legislative and judicial systems. We are the only common law jurisdiction in China. We have our own currency, with no capital or foreign exchange controls. We are, as well, a separate customs territory,” Mr Lee said.

“The ‘one country, two systems’ principle ensures Hong Kong’s unparalleled access to the markets of the Chinese Mainland. Capitalising on our global connectivity and world-class professional services, Hong Kong is your ideal, two-way springboard for business expansion.”

Mr Lee also visited the Astana International Financial Centre and the Astana Hub, a local technology and innovation park, to respectively learn about Kazakhstan’s experience in promoting the development of the non-bank financial sector and the latest developments of the country in the field of AI.

Hong Kong SAR's Chief Executive John Lee (centre) witnesses the exchange of memoranda of understanding and co-operation agreements between organisations from both sides with the Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre Renat Bekturov (second right).
Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee (centre) witnesses the exchange of memoranda of understanding and co-operation agreements between organisations from both sides with the Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre Renat Bekturov (second right).

Before leaving Kazakhstan today (June 3), Mr Lee visited Nazarbayev University, underscoring the historic significance of the trip.

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“It was here, at Astana’s Nazarbayev University in 2013, that President Xi Jinping first raised the visionary initiative of jointly building the Silk Road Economic Belt – today’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),” Mr Lee said.

Last year, at the 10th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, the university signed a MOU with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, demonstrating a shared commitment to advancing higher education co-operation under the BRI. It further reached MOUs with Hong Kong’s Education University and Polytechnic University today.

“These agreements will deepen academic and research collaboration.

“Hong Kong is the only city in the world with five of the top 100 universities. This talent environment is reinforced by our global standing: last year, Hong Kong ranked first in Asia, and fourth globally, in the World Talent Ranking,” he added.

Mr Lee will continue to lead the delegation to Uzbekistan for the second leg of the mission to Central Asia.

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #opportunitieswithCentralAsia





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

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MOKiN Introduces Safe Swap Programme in Malaysia to Encourage Safer Charging Habits

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 June 2026 – MOKiN Malaysia, managed by Unipro Global Sdn Bhd, has launched its Safe Swap Programme, an initiative aimed at encouraging consumers to replace old or damaged charging accessories that may pose potential safety risks during daily use.

The programme is anchored by MOKiN’s TrueGround™ technology, a SIRIM-certified anti-leakage charging solution designed to help reduce electrical leakage risks during charging. As the world’s first Class-1 Anti-Leakage charger, MOKiN introduces an added layer of electrical safety protection that addresses a risk often overlooked in conventional charging products, which typically prioritise charging speed and power output.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns over electrical safety in Malaysian households. According to the Fire and Rescue Department, electrical-related issues accounted for 68% of building fire cases recorded between January and September 2024, with more than 3,000 residential fire incidents linked to electrical sources such as faulty wiring, damaged electrical equipment and overloaded circuits.

“Charging has become such a routine part of daily life that many people no longer pay attention to warning signs like overheating, exposed cables or tingling sensations during charging,” said Terry Lee Hup Boon, Founder of UNIPRO GLOBAL SDN BHD.

“Many consumers tend to focus on charging speed and convenience, but electrical safety is just as important. Our anti-leakage charging technology was developed to help address safety risks that are often overlooked in everyday charging, and through the Safe Swap Programme, we hope to encourage greater awareness of safer charging practices.”

Through the Safe Swap Programme, consumers can trade in old or damaged chargers from any brand and receive a complimentary MOKiN 20W charger, while stocks last.Consumers can participate in Safe Swap activations at the following events from 1 to 30 June 2026:

  • Switch World Event, Gurney Plaza, Penang (4-7 June 2026)
  • UR Festival Fair, Sunway Square, Selangor (11-14 June 2026)

In partnership with consumer electronics retailer Gajeto, MOKiN will also be running a free trade-in campaign at selected Gajeto outlets throughout the month of June, giving consumers additional opportunities to learn more about safer charging solutions and explore MOKiN’s range of anti-leakage charging products. Customers can bring any old charger, regardless of brand, and swap in for a brand-new MOKiN 20W charger at no cost, with no purchase required, while stocks last. Participating Gajeto locations include:

  • Gajeto IOI City Mall (6-7 June 2026)
  • Gajeto The Exchange 106 (13-14 June 2026)
  • Gajeto 1 Utama (20-21 June 2026)
  • Gajeto Setia City Mall (27-28 June 2026)

Consumers may also choose to upgrade to selected higher-watt charging models ranging from 33W to 140W at promotional prices throughout the campaign period.

The Safe Swap Programme reflects MOKiN’s ongoing effort to encourage safer charging habits and greater awareness around the condition of charging accessories used daily by consumers. Consumers are encouraged to bring in old, damaged or ageing chargers during the campaign period, particularly accessories showing signs such as overheating, exposed cables, loose connections or inconsistent charging performance. All traded-in chargers collected through the programme will be removed from circulation as part of the initiative.

Complimentary MOKiN 20W chargers are available on a first come, first served basis while stocks last. For more information, visit www.mokin.my.
Hashtag: #mokinmalaysia #trueground #mokin #mokinmy #safeswap



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

Unipro Global Sdn Bhd

Malaysia’s dedicated distributor for the world’s leading consumer electronics accessories brands such as MOKiN, AUKEY, ESR, and Nakamichi. Based in Kuala Lumpur. We bring premium tech accessories to Malaysian consumers. At Unipro Global Sdn Bhd, we believe that quality tech accessories should be accessible to every Malaysian. We work closely with our brand partners to ensure the right products reach the right customers — at the right price.

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Webdorks Launches Claude Design-Assisted Prototyping for Website and MVP Development

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 June 2026 – Webdorks Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based web design and development agency, has leveraged Claude Design-assisted prototyping within selected website and Minimum Viable Product (MVP) development projects since May 2026.

The approach is intended to help businesses visualize concepts, explore design directions, review user journeys, and refine core requirements before progressing into full-scale UI/UX design and development.

Claude Design, launched by Anthropic in April 2026, allows users to collaborate with Claude to create visual work such as designs, interactive prototypes, wireframes, mockups, presentations, and marketing materials. The tool enables teams to describe an idea, generate an initial version, and refine the concept through further instructions and edits.

Since its launch, tools such as Claude Design have made it significantly easier to turn early ideas into interactive prototypes. This creates new opportunities for businesses to review concepts more quickly before committing substantial time and budget to a full build.

However, Webdorks believes that early-stage prototyping and production deployment should remain distinct phases, particularly for corporate websites and digital products that support business-critical functions.

“Claude Design has made it much faster to visualize an idea and explore different directions,” said Alex Choong, Founder of Webdorks Pte Ltd. “The distinction is that an interactive prototype is not necessarily a production-ready website or application. For higher-stakes corporate projects, the final product still needs proper planning, design review, development, testing, security considerations, and ongoing support.”

Using AI at the Initial Prototyping Stage

Webdorks is incorporating Claude Design into the initial prototyping phase of suitable website and MVP projects. Depending on the project requirements, the prototype may be used to demonstrate selected screens, page structures, feature concepts, interactions, or user journeys.

For corporate website projects, this may include exploring the homepage direction, content hierarchy, lead-generation flow, service pages, or selected interactive elements.

For MVP projects, this may include illustrating how users navigate a customer portal, internal dashboard, booking system, membership platform, marketplace, workflow automation tool, or Software-as-a-Service product.

The initial prototype provides stakeholders with a clearer reference point for discussion. It can help businesses identify gaps earlier, compare alternative approaches, and refine requirements before the project enters the more resource-intensive design and development stages.

“Previously, businesses often had to rely heavily on written descriptions, static references, or wireframes during the early stage,” Choong added. “AI-assisted prototyping makes discussions more visual and practical. Clients can react to something tangible, which helps us identify what should be retained, changed, or removed before the full build begins.”

Prototype First, Production Build Second

Webdorks does not position AI-generated prototypes as a substitute for structured production development.

Corporate websites and digital products may need to support requirements such as brand consistency, responsive behaviour across devices, content management systems, third-party integrations, analytics, customer data, payment gateways, user access controls, internal workflows, performance optimization, quality assurance, security testing, and future scalability.

These requirements become more important when a digital product is customer-facing, revenue-generating, operationally critical, or connected to internal business processes.

For this reason, Webdorks uses AI-assisted prototypes primarily as an early validation tool. Once the direction is confirmed, suitable projects proceed through a structured workflow that may include discovery, UI/UX refinement, technical planning, custom development, integrations, testing, deployment, and post-launch support.

“AI is changing the speed of the first draft,” Choong said. “The role of an agency is to turn that first draft into a digital product that is aligned with the business, tested properly, and built for real-world use.”

Supporting Faster Validation for Businesses

The introduction of Claude Design-assisted prototyping is part of Webdorks’ broader approach to helping businesses launch digital projects in stages.

Instead of building every feature immediately, businesses can begin by clarifying the objective, visualizing the core user journey, and validating the most important requirements. This may be followed by a lean MVP, a more comprehensive version with selected integrations, or a full custom build based on the project’s complexity and commercial requirements.

The approach is intended to support businesses exploring new digital initiatives while reducing avoidable rework during later stages of the project.

“AI tools and agencies solve different problems,” Choong said. “AI makes early exploration more accessible. For the foreseeable future, agencies will remain important when businesses need to translate an idea into a structured, scalable, and maintainable platform.”

Hashtag: #Webdorks #ClaudeDesign #ArtificialIntelligence #WebDesign #WebDevelopment #MVPDevelopment #DigitalTransformation #CorporateWebsites #Webagency




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

About Webdorks Pte Ltd

Webdorks Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based web design and development agency specialising in corporate websites, e-commerce development, UI/UX design, custom web applications, MVP prototyping, and scalable digital solutions for SMEs and regional brands across Southeast Asia.

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KitHui Growth Financial Academy Highlights AI Entering into Advanced Financial Decision-Making at Science x AI Summit 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 June 2026 – The evolving role of artificial intelligence in financial decision-making was highlighted during the Science x AI Summit 2026 held in Silicon Valley on May 12. Discussions at the summit focused on AI Agents, autonomous reasoning systems, scientific research-grade artificial intelligence, and advanced computing architectures, with strong emphasis on real-world applications in complex environments.

Unlike conventional industry discussions centered on model performance or product releases, the summit addressed how artificial intelligence can be applied in scientific research, complex reasoning, and industrial decision-making scenarios. The ability to deliver stable, verifiable, and scalable outcomes emerged as a central theme across technical exchanges.

Financial markets operate as complex systems influenced by dynamic variables, including capital flows, macroeconomic cycles, policy changes, and market sentiment. Despite the availability of large datasets and analytical tools, challenges remain in identifying risk, filtering noise, and making informed decisions under uncertainty. Artificial intelligence is increasingly expected to enhance these processes through applications in risk assessment, scenario simulation, asset valuation, and intelligent investment research.

Industry observations indicate a transition from conceptual exploration toward practical deployment. Key areas of development include improved handling of unstructured data, enhanced model stability in volatile environments, and stronger integration into structured decision-making frameworks. Advances in AI Agents and intelligent systems contribute to deeper analytical capabilities while supporting disciplined financial methodologies.

Chow Kit Hui, founder of KitHui Growth Financial Academy, continues to monitor developments in computing infrastructure, algorithm optimization, and AI training architectures, alongside broader trends in financial technology and intelligent decision-making systems. Ongoing research focuses on the integration of emerging technologies into financial modeling and analytical frameworks.

Insights from the summit suggest that competition in artificial intelligence is shifting toward high-complexity sectors such as finance, scientific research, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Long-term value will depend on the ability of AI systems to improve decision quality, operate under constraints, and adapt to complex environments.
Hashtag: #KitHuiGrowthFinancialAcademy #AI #FinancialDecisionMaking

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

About KitHui Growth Financial Academy

KitHui Growth Financial Academy was founded by Chow Kit Hui, who has long focused on global asset allocation, corporate mergers and acquisitions, private equity, derivatives, risk management, macroeconomic research, and financial valuation modeling. Rather than centering on short-term market forecasts or investment techniques, the academy helps learners build a rational, long-term, and structured understanding of finance.

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KitHui Growth Financial Academy Highlights the Role of AI for Science in Advancing Financial Modeling of Complex Systems

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 June 2026 – AI for Science emerged as a key topic at the Science x AI Summit 2026, where discussions focused on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in addressing complex, multi-variable systems. The summit, held on May 12 in Silicon Valley, brought together experts across mathematical reasoning, life sciences, pharmaceutical research and development, and physical simulation, all pointing toward a shared conclusion: AI is transitioning from an information-processing tool to a framework for understanding complex systems.

Financial markets are inherently complex systems shaped by price dynamics, capital flows, macroeconomic cycles, policy changes, and investor sentiment. Traditional financial modeling approaches, typically grounded in historical data, empirical assumptions, and linear analysis, face limitations in capturing such multidimensional interactions. AI for Science introduces new methodologies through simulation, advanced reasoning, and multivariable modeling, offering a broader analytical perspective.

The application of AI is not positioned as a replacement for traditional financial models, but as an enhancement to analytical capabilities in conditions of uncertainty. In areas such as asset valuation, risk exposure assessment, and macroeconomic scenario simulation, the central challenge lies in understanding variable interactions and maintaining model interpretability under extreme conditions. AI-driven approaches contribute to improved analysis by enabling more comprehensive scenario testing and deeper insight into systemic relationships.

Chow Kit Hui, founder of KitHui Growth Financial Academy, continues to monitor advancements in AI training architectures, algorithm optimization, and scientific research-grade artificial intelligence. Ongoing engagement with developments in intelligent decision-making and financial technology reflects a commitment to integrating emerging methodologies into financial research and education frameworks.

Insights from the Science x AI Summit 2026 indicate that the long-term value of AI extends beyond efficiency gains and content generation. Greater potential lies in supporting the analysis of complex systemic challenges. In financial applications, AI is not expected to eliminate risk or replace professional judgment; however, it can contribute to earlier risk identification, more robust assumption testing, and decision-making processes that more accurately reflect real-world complexity.

Hashtag: #ScienceXAI #ChowKitHui #AIforScience

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About KitHui Growth Financial Academy

KitHui Growth Financial Academy focuses on advancing structured and long-term financial understanding across key areas including global asset allocation, corporate mergers and acquisitions, private equity, derivatives, risk management, macroeconomic research, and financial valuation modeling. The academy emphasizes systematic thinking and rational analysis rather than short-term market forecasting or speculative investment strategies.

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Award-winning BYU Ballroom Dance Company to Perform in India, Showcasing World-Class Dance and Cultural Exchange

NEW DELHI / BENGALURU, INDIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 June 2026 – Having recently won championships at Blackpool, Brigham Young University’s internationally acclaimed Ballroom Dance Company will bring its elegant and high-energy performances to India this June, with scheduled appearances in New Delhi on 4 June and 6 June 2026, and Bengaluru on 9 June 2026.

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The award-winning dance company is one of the premier collegiate dance ensembles in the United States, renowned for its elite performance and vibrant stage presence. It has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of standard ballroom and Latin dances, including the Waltz, Tango, Quickstep, Cha-cha and Samba.

BYU Ballroom Dance Company brings its elite performances to New Delhi and Bengaluru this June.
BYU Ballroom Dance Company brings its elite performances to New Delhi and Bengaluru this June.

Audiences in India can look forward to an unforgettable evening of entertainment, featuring artistic moves with dazzling costumes. These appearances are part of the Company’s annual international tour, which seeks to foster cultural understanding and strengthen global friendships through the universal language of dance.

Last year, they had the privilege of performing for His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Her Majesty Queen Suthida in Thailand; Her Royal Highness Preah Reach Botrey Samdech Norodom Arunrasmy in Cambodia; as well as other dignitaries and professionals in Vietnam, demonstrating their role as cultural ambassadors on the global stage.

“We feel deeply honored for the opportunity to travel to India and experience its remarkable culture and traditions firsthand,” said Curt Holman, the artistic director of the Company. “Ballroom dance has a unique ability to transcend language and culture, and through movement and music. Our students look forward not only to sharing their artistry, but also to learning from the people of India.”

By special invitation from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, the 32 student dancers will, in addition to their performances, participate in cultural exchanges with local artists and engage in community service. These interactions reflect BYU’s broader commitment to education, cultural dialogue, and humanitarian outreach, creating meaningful connections beyond the stage.

Interested individuals may now reserve complimentary tickets through Eventbrite, while availability lasts. Tickets for the New Delhi shows have already been fully reserved.

Bengaluru:

Hashtag: #byuballroom




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BYU Ballroom Dance Company

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The Virchow Prize 2026 Awarded for Pioneering Work on Ebola, Advancing Global Epidemic Preparedness and Fostering Global Solidarity

Jean-Jacques Muyembe and Peter Piot are being honored with the international award of €500,000 for exceptional life-long leadership spanning five decades since the first outbreak of Ebola

BERLIN, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 2 June 2026 – The Virchow Prize 2026 has been jointly awarded to Jean‑Jacques Muyembe and Peter Piot for their pioneering and enduring leadership in the discovery, control, and understanding of epidemic threats, and for advancing equitable, multilateral cooperation and governance that have fundamentally strengthened global preparedness and solidarity in the face of infectious disease outbreaks.

The Virchow Prize Laureates 2026: Jean-Jacques Muyembe (DR Congo) and Peter Piot (Belgium), honored for their pioneering and enduring leadership in the discovery, control, and understanding of epidemic threats, and for advancing equitable, multilateral cooperation and governance that have fundamentally strengthened global preparedness and solidarity in the face of infectious disease outbreaks.
The Virchow Prize Laureates 2026: Jean-Jacques Muyembe (DR Congo) and Peter Piot (Belgium), honored for their pioneering and enduring leadership in the discovery, control, and understanding of epidemic threats, and for advancing equitable, multilateral cooperation and governance that have fundamentally strengthened global preparedness and solidarity in the face of infectious disease outbreaks.

The announcement was made today by the Virchow Foundation which is granting the annual award. The selection of the laureates by the independent Virchow Prize Committee was preceded by a nomination period that ended on February 28, followed by a three-month deliberation period.

This moment resonates with particular historical gravity: 2026 marks both fifty years since the emergence of Ebola and a renewed confrontation with the virus through the current outbreak and unpreparedness.

According to the committee, the careers of Jean‑Jacques Muyembe and Peter Piot are anchored in a defining moment of modern infectious disease history: the first identified Ebola outbreak in 1976. Their collaboration demonstrated the necessity of crossing contextual, disciplinary and geographic boundaries, highlighting both the potential and the inequities inherent in global health partnerships. Over the decades, both Muyembe and Piot have worked – partly closely together, partly independent from each other in complementary ways – to transform epidemic research in an exemplary manner, firmly rooted in equity, reciprocity, and shared leadership.

Taken together, the laureates’ contributions illustrate a continuum that is central to advancing health for all: from discovery to delivery, from local response to global coordination, from emergency action to long-term system strengthening. Their work has directly improved the ability to detect, understand, and control deadly outbreaks, while also influencing broader frameworks for addressing global health challenges in a manner that is equitable and inclusive.

By awarding the Virchow Prize 2026 equally to Muyembe and Piot, their scientific achievements and their commitment to strengthening health systems and fostering global solidarity are honored. The laureates’ work embodies Rudolf Virchow’s legacy that health is inseparable from social organisation, governance, and collective responsibility.

Full Article and detailed Virchow Prize Committee jury rationale at www.virchowprize.org/vp2026

Contact: Virchow Foundation | Dorotheenstr. 83 | DE-10117 Berlin, Germany | press@virchow.foundation

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

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DHL Express and ASEAN Business Advisory Council partner to strengthen MSME competitiveness and advance ASEAN trade integration

  • Both parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to boost trade facilitation across businesses in ASEAN
  • The partnership will empower MSMEs through training and tools to navigate digital, finance, and logistics challenges, while improving trade standards, sustainability, and cross-border processes=

MANILA, THE PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 June 2026 – DHL Express and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) have formalized a strategic collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance trade facilitation, strengthen supply chain resilience, and empower micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the ASEAN member states. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to accelerate ASEAN’s economic integration and global competitiveness.

George Barcelon, Council Member, ASEAN Business Advisory Council and Herbert Vongpusanachai, Senior Vice President - Commercial for Asia Pacific, DHL Express signed the MoU in Manila
George Barcelon, Council Member, ASEAN Business Advisory Council and Herbert Vongpusanachai, Senior Vice President – Commercial for Asia Pacific, DHL Express signed the MoU in Manila

The partnership will focus on four key areas:

  • Empowering MSMEs including women-led businesses with enhanced access to and effective participation in cross-border trade
  • Strengthening supply chain resilience and promoting digital logistics adoption
  • Advancing decarbonization practices in the region
  • Harmonizing supply chain and digital trade standards through policy advocacy

These focus areas align with ASEAN’s broader ambition to enhance intra-regional and global trade connectivity. Equally, it highlights DHL’s GT20 initiative, which prioritizes the world’s 20 most significant markets; six of these are ASEAN member states. Through this collaboration, both organizations will work to reduce barriers to cross border commerce and improve customs processes and standards. ASEAN businesses – particularly MSMEs – will be able to gain a competitive edge in the global trade landscape.

“ASEAN’s strength will not be measured by the success of a few, but by the number of people we bring into the circle of growth and opportunity,” said ASEAN Business Advisory Council Chair Jose Ma. Concepcion III. “Advancing Prosperity for All” means building an ASEAN where businesses of all sizes can grow and innovate. Through stronger regional collaboration, and this partnership with DHL, we want to ensure that no one – especially MSMEs and the small entrepreneurs – is left behind.”

“Global trade has proven its resilience time and again, and ASEAN continues to stand out as a critical pillar of that growth. MSMEs are at the heart of ASEAN’s economies, and their ability to compete internationally will define the region’s next phase of development. DHL has been a constant in enabling cross-border trade – providing the infrastructure, expertise and reliability that businesses depend on. Our partnership with ASEAN-BAC and our GoTrade program show that we are doubling down on our commitment to MSMEs so that they can confidently scale beyond their home markets,” said Herbert Vongpusanachai, Senior Vice President for Commercial – Asia Pacific, DHL Express.

Asia remains a key anchor in global trade, according to the latest DHL Global Connectedness Report, with ASEAN also contributing significantly to trade flows. As a prominent manufacturing base that handled USD4.4 trillion (~EUR3.79 trillion) in merchandise trade, it is essential to ensure the region’s MSMEs receive the support they need to scale.

Under the MoU, DHL will provide expertise via its GoTrade program* and related MSME support initiatives. GoTrade training programs will be introduced region-wide to help MSMEs navigate complexities such as digital, finance and logistics when trading internationally. The DHL GoTrade program is a DHL strategic initiative that aims to unlock global trade opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Meanwhile, ASEAN-BAC Philippines, as chair for 2026, continues to champion MSMEs as a core priority embedded across its four strategic pillars: People (inclusivity), Planet (sustainability, Platform (innovation), and Productivity (competitiveness). Its flagship legacy project, the ASEAN mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network, launched during its last chairmanship in 2017, will be expanded into a digital platform to further scale mentorship, market access, innovation support, and regional opportunities for MSMEs across the region.

The collaboration will also reinforce the region’s strategic importance in global supply chains. By jointly developing research papers on ASEAN trade challenges faced by MSMEs, promoting digital trade processes, and engaging governments on aligned standards, DHL and ASEAN-BAC aim to further elevate ASEAN’s position in international trade networks.

The global DHL GoTrade Summit will also be held in Manila this year. Both ASEAN-BAC and the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines are partners of the event, which convenes experts and policymakers to ideate and discuss ways to help MSMEs trade better across borders.

*Note to editor:

Go Trade is DHL’s strategic initiative to unlock global trade opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By partnering and building an ecosystem with public and private sector stakeholders, and collaborating with international development and intergovernmental agencies, Go Trade addresses systemic barriers to SME participation in international markets and promotes sustainable trade growth worldwide.

The program leverages DHL’s unparalleled global network, logistics expertise, and market insights to connect SMEs with cross-border opportunities. Through Capacity Building and Trade Advocacy, Go Trade equips businesses with the skills, resources, and support needed to scale internationally and operate sustainably. This approach not only accelerates SME growth but also drives economic development in emerging markets, creating long-term value for stakeholders and contributing to resilient global supply chains.

Go Trade represents DHL’s commitment to inclusive trade and sustainable economic progress. For more information on Go Trade, click here: https://www.dhl.com/global-en/microsite/core/gotrade.html

Hashtag: #DHL


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

DHL – The logistics company for the world

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 389,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 82.9 billion euros in 2025. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

ABOUT THE ASEAN BUSINESS ADVISORY COUNCIL

The ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN‑BAC) is the region’s principal private sector advisory body, providing business insights and recommendations to ASEAN Leaders. It serves as the primary platform for the private sector to engage with policymakers, advocate for economic cooperation, and advance ASEAN’s integration agenda

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科大「独角兽日」汇聚全球创新创业力量

推动科研成果转化 构建蓬勃创科生态圈

香港 – Media OutReach Newswire – 2026年6月2日 – 香港科技大学(科大)今日圆满举行年度本港创科创业旗舰活动之一的「独角兽日」(Unicorn Day),活动汇聚逾1,800名师生及校友、国际与本地政界代表、业界伙伴、投资者、创科企业家及科研人员,共商创科生态圈协作策略,缔造跨领域合作机遇,促进科研成果转化与国际交流。

香港特别行政区政府创新科技及工业局局长孙东教授,以及来自澳洲、智利、法国、匈牙利、印度、日本、马来西亚、荷兰、越南及阿联酋等多国驻港总领事及高级官员莅临现场。科大校长叶玉如教授科大(广州)校长倪明选教授科大副校长(研究及发展)郑光廷教授陪同嘉宾巡览逾百家由科大培育的初创企业,深入了解其于医疗健康、电子及人工智能系统、新材料、绿色能源与可持续发展等领域的研究成果转化及应用进展。

孙东教授表示:「支持创新科技发展一直是香港特区政府的重点工作,我们充分肯定本地大学所扮演的重要角色;大学不仅是主要合作伙伴,更是本地创科生态系统的基石。科大在短短三十五年间,已成为深科技、创业及创新领域的全球领军力量,并成功培育多家独角兽企业及深科技初创公司,充分印证了其卓越实力。香港正步入创科发展的黄金时代,我们正着力建立推动香港高质量发展的新引擎,聚焦重点领域的科研创新,并引领产业应用发展。我深信,香港将成为举足轻重的国际创科中心,为国家高质量发展作出重要贡献;而科大亦必将在这段非凡历程中持续发挥其关键力量。」

叶玉如校长表示:「今年适逢科大创校35周年,创新与创业精神始终深植于科大的DNA之中。早在创校初期,科大便设立技术转移中心及创业中心,致力协助师生实现创业梦想,并推动科研成果转化为实用方案。经过三十五载砥砺前行,我们以创新为种子,在多个前沿领域结出累累硕果。大学持续拓展版图,积极布局多个策略性科研领域,其中,正在筹建的科大医学院将生命科学与前沿科技相结合,致力于培育新一代跨学科的医学人才。同时,科大亦深度参与国家嫦娥八号探月工程及天宫太空站科研项目,并推展首个在’产学研1+计划’框架下具商品化潜力的航天科技项目。这一系列成果,正是科大多年来秉持’凡事皆可为’精神的最佳印证,亦与今日活动主题 — ‘筑梦卅五载创新无止境’紧密相连。展望未来,科大将继续播下敢想敢为的种子,与各界携手共育创新之林,让科研成果造福社会、惠及全球。」

为支援初创企业拓展国际市场,并促进跨地域合作,科大今年于活动设立”国际展区”(International Pavilion),吸引来自多个国家和地区的创科企业及机构参与,交流发展经验并洽谈合作。来自泰国、新加坡及韩国的团队亦参与其中,促进香港与”一带一路”沿线国家及地区在技术应用及产业发展方面的对接。

活动期间亦促成六项合作协议,当中包括:

  • GPTX简坤投资
  • 中国光大水务有限公司
  • 江苏道同环境科技有限公司
  • 广州三星通信技术研究有限公司
  • 天瞳威视
  • 英诺天使基金

相关合作旨在推动人才培育及产学协作,并促进科研成果转化与创新应用。

科大创科力量 推动经济发展

活动同日亦公布由科大委托国际科研资讯分析机构爱思唯尔(Elsevier)撰写的《Driving Socioeconomic Impact Through Research and Innovation: Insights from HKUST》报告。报告显示,科大在创新创业方面表现卓越。过去五年,研究论文产出年均增长达10%,较本港其他院校高出约9%;其中逾六成研究集中于工程及计算机科学领域。在产学合作研究方面占比达到6.2%,显著高于全球平均的2.7%。部分合作研究项目更成功转化为具影响力的专利成果,累计录得约1,670项专利申请及700项授权,其专利使用率高于30%。

郑光廷教授表示,结果反映科大在推动科研成果转化及产学合作方面的能力稳步提升。科大论文于领域权重引用影响力指数达到4.40,显示其研究的引用影响力为全球平均水平的4.4倍。这充分彰显科大在促进香港整体社会经济发展及提升创科竞争力方面所作出的重要贡献。

活动期间,校园内亦设有”Marketplace”市集,展出多项已投入市场的产品,包括人工智能分析工具、医疗科技设备及智慧城市解决方案,展示初创企业将科研成果落实应用的进展。

Hashtag: #unicorn #unicornday #HKUST #partnership #innovation #startup #tech #AI #space #robotics #materialscience

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

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HKUST Unicorn Day Brings Together Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship Leaders

Advancing Research Commercialization and Building a Vibrant I&T Ecosystem

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 June 2026 – The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) today successfully hosted its annual “Unicorn Day,” one of Hong Kong’s flagship innovation and entrepreneurship events. The event brought together over 1,800 participants, including students, faculty, and alumni, as well as international and local government representatives, industry partners, investors, innovation and technology entrepreneurs, and researchers. Participants exchanged insights on strategies to strengthen collaboration across the innovation ecosystem, foster cross-disciplinary partnerships, and accelerate the translation of research outcomes into real-world impact.

The event was officiated by Prof. SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, alongside consuls-generals and senior officials from countries including Australia, Chile, France, Hungary, India, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Vietnam, and the United Arab Emirates. They were joined by Prof. Nancy IP, HKUST President; Prof. Lionel NI, HKUST (Guangzhou) President; and Prof. Tim CHENG, HKUST Vice-President for Research and Development; in touring over 100 HKUST-nurtured startups, showcasing innovations and applications spanning areas such as healthcare, electronics, and artificial intelligence systems, as well as new materials, green energy, and sustainability.

Prof. Sun Dong remarked, “Innovation and technology (I&T) has always been at the top of the Hong Kong SAR Government’s agenda. We fully recognise the crucial role of local universities — not only as key partners, but as the bedrock of Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem. In just three and a half decades, HKUST has risen to become a global powerhouse in deep tech, entrepreneurship, and innovation as demonstrated by its ability to nurture unicorns and deep-tech ventures. Hong Kong is entering a golden era of I&T development. We are building new engines to drive Hong Kong’s high-quality development, focusing on research and development in key fields and leading industry applications. I am confident that Hong Kong will rise as a leading international I&T center and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s high-quality development, and that HKUST will continue to be a driving force in this amazing journey.”

President Ip said, “As we mark the 35th anniversary of HKUST this year, we also celebrate the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that has long been embedded in our DNA. Both the Technology Transfer Center and the Entrepreneurship Center were established in the University’s early years to support faculty and students in realizing their entrepreneurial aspirations and to promote the translation of research outcomes into practical solutions. Over the past 35 years, the University has forged ahead with determination, sowing the seeds of innovation and yielding remarkable achievements across multiple frontier fields. Today, HKUST continues to broaden its horizons, strategically positioning itself in key domains. One example is medical education. The establishment of the HKUST Medical School will integrate the life sciences with cutting-edge technologies to nurture a new generation of interdisciplinary medical professionals.

Concurrently, HKUST has been actively involved in national initiatives such as the Chang’E 8 lunar exploration mission and research projects for the Tiangong Space Station, and the launch of the first commercially viable aerospace project under the RAISe+ Scheme. These achievements exemplify HKUST’s enduring ‘can do’ spirit over the past decades and echo the theme of today’s event—’From Ideas to Miracles—35 Years of Impact and Beyond’. Looking ahead, HKUST will continue to nurture bold ideas and action, working hand in hand with partners across different sectors to cultivate a vibrant innovation ecosystem, ensuring that research achievements benefit society and create lasting global impact.”

To support startups in expanding into global markets and to promote cross-border collaboration, HKUST introduced an “International Pavilion,” featuring startups and innovation organizations from various countries and regions. Participants from Thailand, Singapore and Korea were among those represented, strengthening connections between Hong Kong, and countries and regions along the Belt and Road in technology application and industry development.

The event also saw the signing of multiple partnership agreements, including six strategic collaborations with:

  • GPTX Investment Management Limited
  • China Everbright Water Limited
  • Jiangsu Daotop Environmental Technology
  • Samsung R&D Institute China – Guangzhou
  • CalmCar Physical AI Innovation Center
  • InnoAngel

to advance talent development and industry–academia integration, and foster innovation-driven research and real-world technology translation.

HKUST’s I&T Strength Driving Economic Growth

In addition, HKUST also released the report Driving Socioeconomic Impact Through Research and Innovation: Insights from HKUST, commissioned by the University and prepared by the international research information analytics organization Elsevier. The report highlights HKUST’s outstanding performance in innovation and entrepreneurship. Over the past five years, research output has recorded an average growth of 10%, approximately 9% higher than that of other local institutions. More than 65% of the research is concentrated in engineering and computer science, while 6.2% involves academia-industry collaboration, significantly higher than the global average of 2.7%. These collaborations have translated into impactful intellectual property, with approximately 1,670 patent applications and 700 grants over the same period, and a high IP utilization rate of above 30%.

Prof. Tim Cheng noted that the findings demonstrate HKUST’s steadily strengthening capabilities in research translation and academia-industry collaboration. HKUST’s publications achieved a Field-Weighted Citation Impact of 4.40, indicating that their citation impact is 4.4 times the global average. This underscores HKUST’s significant contributions to advancing Hong Kong’s socioeconomic development and enhancing its competitiveness in innovation and technology.

In addition, a “Marketplace” was also featured, showcasing products already launched by startups, including AI analytics tools, healthcare technologies, and smart city solutions, demonstrating the progress of translating research into practical applications.

Hashtag: #unicorn #unicornday #HKUST #partnership #innovation #startup #tech #AI #space #robotics #materialscience

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

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