The talks reaffirmed AIG's position as a leading industry player in the region.

As a core subsidiary of COFCO Group, one of China's leading food processing conglomerates, COFCO Biotechnology plays a pivotal role in Asia's food ingredient supply chain. For more than two decades, the company has been a strategic partner of AIG, contributing significantly to the development of optimal agricultural ingredient solutions for the Chinese market and the wider region.

Today, recognising the vast potential of the Vietnamese market as well as AIG's growing capabilities in food ingredients and global agricultural supply chains, COFCO Biotechnology is seeking to further expand its cooperation with AIG. The enhanced partnership is expected to create new opportunities for trade connectivity, optimise food ingredient supply chains, and promote mutually beneficial development between Vietnamese and Chinese enterprises.

The expanded cooperation with COFCO Biotechnology is expected to strengthen AIG's food ingredient supply chain across China and the broader Asian market

At the meeting, Jiang Guo Jin, chairman of COFCO Biotechnology, said, "With its strong manufacturing capabilities, extensive commercial ecosystem, and clear commitment to sustainable development, AIG is an ideal partner for COFCO Biotechnology as we look to deepen our cooperation in the years ahead."

The meeting with COFCO Biotechnology further underscored AIG's commitment to expanding its international partnerships and advancing its ambition to become a globally recognised enterprise.

In April, AIG welcomed Masayuki Omoto, president and CEO of Marubeni Corporation of Japan, along with a delegation from the group, to discuss plans to expand the supply chain for natural ingredients. Through its extensive distribution system and broad partner network across Japan and Southeast Asia, Marubeni will support AIG in bringing Vietnamese ingredient products to a wider international market.

Alongside its commercial partnerships, AIG also announced a strategic cooperation with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Asia Coconut Processing Plant II as part of its sustainable development strategy.

Under the partnership, IFC will work alongside AIG to develop its Net Zero roadmap, strengthen its environmental governance framework in line with international environmental, social, and governance standards, and enhance the group's capacity to meet increasingly stringent requirements from global export markets.

Alongside expanding its international partnerships, AIG continues to invest heavily in modern manufacturing facilities and a diversified business ecosystem to strengthen its competitiveness and meet the increasingly stringent standards of global markets.

Backed by a fully integrated ecosystem encompassing natural raw material sourcing, research and development (R&D), manufacturing, distribution, international trade, and supply chain management, AIG has built a network of more than eight member companies operating across the distribution, production, and processing of ingredients derived from Vietnam's abundant agricultural resources.

AIG broke ground on the Asia Coconut Processing Plant II on May 11, one of the group's flagship projects under its strategy to expand its portfolio of value-added coconut products, enhance production capacity, standardise quality in line with international benchmarks, and strengthen its presence in key export markets, including Europe, the United States, Japan, and South Korea.

With a total investment of nearly VND630 billion ($24 million) and commercial operations scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2027, the Asia Coconut Processing Plant II will enable AIG to own the largest coconut processing manufacturing system in Vietnam.

To date, AIG has established an export network spanning more than 50 countries and territories and has become a trusted partner of leading global corporations and brands such as DSM-Firmenich, James Farrell, AAK, Tate & Lyle, Pantheryx, Givaudan, Darigold, and Ingredion. The achievement further reinforces AIG's reputation and operational excellence, demonstrating the ability of a Vietnamese enterprise to meet international standards in the ingredients and life sciences sectors.

AIG receiving the US-Vietnam Agricultural Hall of Fame Award for trade and cooperation contributions.

With a sustainable development strategy, expanding production capacity, and close collaboration with global partners, AIG is working towards becoming an internationally recognised ingredients and life sciences group. The company aims to help position Vietnam as a global hub for processing and supplying high-quality agricultural products.

AIG awards 177 scholarships to talented students in challenging situations Asia Ingredients Group (AIG) has awarded 177 scholarships to talented but disadvantaged students, showing the company’s long-term commitment to supporting the community.

Asia Ingredients Group makes strategic investment in GC Food to boost agri-exports Asia Ingredients Group (AIG) in early August became a strategic partner of GC Food JSC, marking a new milestone in its strategy to expand a deeply integrated agricultural ecosystem and elevate the global presence of Vietnam’s agricultural products.

Asia Ingredients Group breaks ground on coconut processing plant On May 11, Asia Ingredients Group officially broke ground on the Asia Coconut Processing Plant II at Long Phuoc Industrial Cluster in Vinh Long province.

The plan, unveiled on June 17, seeks to drive the development of digital infrastructure, workers, data, strategic technologies, and cybersecurity during the 2026-2030 period.

Under the scheme, large-scale strategic technology companies must meet several criteria simultaneously, including annual revenue of at least $1 billion and an average workforce of no fewer than 5,000 employees. They are also required to allocate a minimum of 3 per cent of annual revenue to research and development.

The companies must hold at least one patent granted by one of the world’s five leading intellectual property offices, namely the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the European Patent Office, the Japan Patent Office, the Korean Intellectual Property Office, or the China National Intellectual Property Administration.

According to the government, strategic technology enterprises will play a central role in developing digital infrastructure, strategic technologies, digital data, and cybersecurity, supporting national priorities in sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation.

In digital infrastructure, Vietnam plans to add at least six new international submarine fibre-optic cables by 2030, including at least one route invested in and controlled by a domestic enterprise. The government also aims to expand 5G coverage to 99 per cent of the population.

At the same time, five large-scale data centres meeting international green standards will be developed to position Vietnam as a regional data hub.

In strategic technologies, Vietnam aims for domestic enterprises to master at least 70 per cent of technologies included in the approved strategic technology list. The country also targets becoming one of Southeast Asia’s top three markets for AI research, development, and application.

In addition, strategic technology companies will participate in developing digital twins for selected localities, building shared blockchain platforms, and creating cybersecurity solutions capable of competing internationally.

To support the sector’s development, the government pledged to continue improving the regulatory framework and prioritising resources for key projects in innovation, technology, and digital economy development. Authorities will also support market development, strengthen intellectual property protection, boost international trade, and encourage localities to establish regulatory sandboxes for new digital technology products.

National forum on developing Vietnamese technology companies

Vietnam aims for 100,000 digital technology companies by 2030

Dozens of tech agreements signed between Vietnam and US corporations

New opportunities open for tech sector

Representatives of the Tax Department and JICA Vietnam Office at the conference

Speaking at the meeting, deputy director general of the Tax Department Le Long spoke of how the cooperation between Vietnam and Japan has continued to develop in a deep, substantive, and effective manner across various fields.

Cooperation between the tax authorities of the two countries has stood out as a highlight, reflecting mutual trust, knowledge sharing and support aimed at improving tax administration efficiency and meeting each country’s socioeconomic development requirements.

"This project has gone beyond organising training activities and workshops," said Long. "It has established a mechanism for regular cooperation between Japanese experts and professional units within the Tax Department. Through this mechanism, international experiences and innovative approaches to modern tax administration have been studied and referenced in refining Vietnam's tax mechanisms, policies, and operational procedures."

Launched in 2020, the ‘Enhancing Tax Administration Efficiency through International Experience’ scheme has assisted Vietnam’s tax sector in implementing the Tax System Reform Strategy through 2030, with the goal of building a modern, professional, transparent, effective and efficient tax administration system.

Although the project has faced many difficulties, particularly the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and inclusive organisational restructuring within the tax sector, it was maintained continuously and achieved positive outcomes thanks to close coordination among all parties involved.

Beyond its technical achievements, the undertaking has also served as an important bridge in strengthening mutual understanding, trust and cooperation between the tax authorities of the two countries.

The experiences shared, relationships established and lessons accumulated throughout the implementation process will continue to provide an important foundation for future cooperation activities.

Ikeda Hiroyuki, deputy chief representative of the JICA Vietnam Office, said, "The project has facilitated the sharing of international experience and best practices in risk management, helping improve taxpayer analysis and selection for audit and inspection, refine risk-based management approaches, and enhance the efficiency of tax authority resource utilisation."

"On taxpayer management, it has supported research on issues related to the administration of small and medium-sized enterprises, household businesses, and individual business operators, while sharing international experience in digital technologies, data management, and taxation of the digital economy," he said.

"In tax debt management, training activities, experience-sharing activities, and study visits to Japan provided valuable lessons that can be researched and adapted to Vietnam's practical conditions," he added.

At the meeting, participants exchanged views and conducted a comprehensive assessment of the project’s implementation results during the 2020-2026 period, shared lessons learned and discussed future directions for cooperation.

Le Long spoke of his appreciation for the spirit of close cooperation, responsibility, and commitment demonstrated by JICA experts throughout the project's implementation. He expressed gratitude to the Japanese government, JICA, Japan's National Tax Agency, Japan's National Tax College, the Embassy of Japan in Vietnam, and all Japanese experts for their practical support.

"The project has delivered immediate benefits while also laying a foundation for the long-term development of the tax sector in the years ahead," Long said.

Tax sector wraps up 2025 and sets priorities for next year The tax authorities closed 2025 with record revenue collections and digital adoption while outlining key priorities for 2026, including expanding the tax base, preventing revenue losses, and improving taxpayer services.

Tax sector eyes 20 per cent GDP revenue mobilisation in 2026-2030 The Finance Ministry has tasked the tax sector with boosting budget revenue mobilisation, expanding taxation in the digital economy and accelerating smart tax administration reforms for 2026-2030.

Tax circular amendments aim to ease import-export procedures The Ministry of Finance is accelerating reforms to modernise import-export tax administration, expand digitalisation, and create a more transparent regulatory framework.

The exhibitions are jointly organised by the National Innovation Centre (NIC) and Uninet Exhibition of Singapore, with support from MICE EIMS Korea-Vietnam and the Busan Exhibition & Convention Centre of South Korea.

According to the organisers, this year's exhibitions will cover around 8,800 square metres and feature more than 500 businesses from over 10 countries and territories, including South Korea, Malaysia, India, China, and Vietnam.

The event is expected to attract more than 14,000 trade visitors, buyers, and business representatives from over 30 countries and territories.

Among them, Vietnam Smart Factory Expo 2026 will showcase a wide range of technologies and solutions supporting the transition towards smart manufacturing, including AI, industrial robots, automation systems, 3D printing technologies, intelligent monitoring systems, and new energy solutions.

In addition to product showcases, the exhibitions will feature a series of business matching activities, forums, and thematic seminars on innovation and digital transformation in manufacturing, designed to help businesses identify new partners, expand technology cooperation, and explore market opportunities.

Vietnam Hardware & Hand Tools 2026 will present a broad range of products, including hardware and hand tools, industrial equipment, abrasive materials, welding technologies, mechanical accessories, lifting equipment, and logistics solutions.

Meanwhile, Home Show Vietnam 2026 will gather companies specialising in household products, gifts, and lifestyle items from more than 10 countries and territories.

The exhibition will showcase a diverse array of products, including kitchenware, home decor, household textiles, creative gifts, small household electrical appliances, outdoor products, and AI-enabled smart home solutions.

Speaking at a press conference on the three events held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 18, To Hoang Anh, representative of the NIC, said the exhibitions are taking place at a time when manufacturing enterprises are accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies to improve productivity, optimise operations, and deepen their integration into global value chains.

“The events are expected to foster stronger connections and help Vietnamese businesses gain access to modern manufacturing solutions as they advance their digital transformation journeys. By hosting the three exhibitions simultaneously, we aim to create an integrated, cross-sector platform that enables enterprises to engage with a broad spectrum of partners, ranging from industrial manufacturers to consumer market players,” Anh said.

He explained that the exhibitions are not merely venues for showcasing advanced manufacturing technologies, but also strategic platforms that bring together businesses, investors, experts, and policymakers involved in smart manufacturing.

“Through these events, NIC hopes to accelerate innovation and digital transformation across Vietnam’s processing and manufacturing industries. At the same time, we want to support businesses in accessing and mastering key technologies such as automation, robotics, 3D printing, AI, digital twins, and smart factory solutions, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and enabling deeper participation in global value chains,” Anh added.

According to NIC, as the digital economy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution continue to reshape global supply chains and redefine the structure of the world economy, the transition towards smart manufacturing is no longer a matter of choice but a strategic imperative for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

A report by US-based market research firm Grand View Research indicates that the global smart manufacturing market is experiencing rapid expansion and is projected to reach nearly $790 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 14 per cent.

The convergence of core technologies such as AI, the Industrial Internet of Things, robotics, and big data analytics is driving significant gains in productivity, product quality, and industrial competitiveness, creating new growth opportunities for economies seeking to move up the global value chain.

NIC has been strengthening its role as a key catalyst in building Vietnam’s smart manufacturing ecosystem.

Over the years, NIC has forged strategic partnerships with leading global technology corporations such as Dassault Systèmes, Samsung, and Siemens to train industry professionals and facilitate technology transfer. The centre has also developed smart factory experience centres and demonstration laboratories, while providing direct consultancy and technical support to hundreds of Vietnamese enterprises to optimise production lines and enhance manufacturing capabilities in line with international standards.

Building on these efforts, three exhibitions are expected to serve as strategic platforms bringing together leaders from ministries, government agencies, and local authorities, alongside multinational technology groups, innovative enterprises, investment funds, and leading research institutes and educational institutions from Vietnam and abroad.

National Innovation Centre launches AI training initiative The National Innovation Centre (NIC) under the Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with Intel, launched the “AI for all” initiative on April 2, which is a self-learning course designed for all Vietnamese citizens.

NIC launches Vietnam's first nationwide AI hackathon The National Innovation Centre has launched Vietnam AI Innovation Challenge, the country's first nationwide AI-native hackathon, as part of Vietnam Innovation Challenge 2026.

Many well-known brands participate and showcase new products, including Dongguan Yuankang Toy Manufacturing Co., Ltd, Zen of Collectible Culture (Shantou) Co., Ltd, 52TOYS, and Hangzhou Katetu Baby Products Co., Ltd.

IBTE Hanoi 2026. Photo: VINEXAD

Some other brands also host product launches and exclusive limited-edition sales at the exhibition, offering unique collaboration opportunities for distributors and brand enthusiasts–creating a comprehensive platform that combines business cooperation with brand elevation.

The exhibition covers five main product sectors, including trendy toys, baby products, intellectual property licensing, toys and stationery. It showcases the latest innovations from various markets, such as educational toys, creative products, childcare and safety solutions, and early childhood education support tools.

IBTE Hanoi aims to meet market demand comprehensively while helping businesses identify key products, secure stable supply sources, expand distribution channels, and stay updated on the latest consumer trends and technological advancements in the industry.

Beyond being a platform for new product launches and distribution expansion, IBTE Hanoi also serves as a strategic bridge, enabling businesses to effectively tap into the vast potential of the Vietnamese market in particular, and Southeast Asia as a whole.

Addressing the opening ceremony, To Ngoc Son, deputy director general of the Department of Foreign Market Development under Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade said that with positive economic growth momentum, continuously expanding domestic consumer market, growing population of over 100 million, a young demographic structure, rapid urbanisation, and a growing middle class, Vietnam continues to assert its position as one of the leading dynamic consumer markets in the region.

“In this overall consumer landscape, children stand out as a particularly important group, influencing many purchasing decisions of households,” he said. “As people's education levels, incomes, and living standards continue to rise, families are willing to invest and spend more on quality products for their children which are educational, enable to develop skills, creativity, and provide enriching experiences for children.”

He added that furthermore, children's products in Vietnam must comply with legal regulations, be copyrighted, respect intellectual property rights, ensure safety standards, and uphold Vietnamese customs, traditions, and cultural values. In the context of Vietnam's deep integration into the global economy. This is both a legal requirement and a measure of a company's responsibility for green development towards the community.

The Vietnamese government is currently placing great importance on and boosting the protection of intellectual property rights, strengthening inspections, and addressing violations of the aforementioned regulations.

“With the above direction and potential, I expect that the exhibition is not only a place to showcase and introduce products, but also an important bridge helping domestic and international businesses connect, seek cooperation opportunities, expand markets, share experiences, and update on new global development trends, thereby forming a sustainable development ecosystem for the children's products and toys industry,” he said.

Chen Cantao, chairman of Chaoyu Expo said currently, Vietnam and the ASEAN region have a high proportion of young people, and consumer demand for toys, trendy toys, stationery, and children's products is constantly increasing.

“Artistic and creative cultural toys are very popular with young people, the demand for stationery and educational supplies remains stable, and high-quality children's products are particularly favoured by the market. The prospects for the industry's development are extremely broad with countless business opportunities,” he said.

IBTE 2025 to return to Ho Chi Minh City this December The Vietnam International Baby Products & Toys Expo (IBTE) will return to Ho Chi Minh City in December, bringing together manufacturers, distributors and retailers from across the region to tap into the growing maternal and children’s market.

IBTE 2025 spotlights opportunities in Vietnam’s baby product and toy industry The Vietnam International Baby Products & Toys Expo (IBTE) is opening its doors to visitors from December 18-20 at the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Centre (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hanoi International Baby Products & Toys Expo to open in June The Hanoi International Baby Products & Toys Expo and the Hanoi International Trendy Toys Expo in Hanoi will take place on June 18-21 in Hanoi, featuring over 1,000 booths and more than 500 participating companies from Vietnam, China, and other countries and regions.

Illustration- AWS Data Centre Interior

With AWS Local Zones now available in Hanoi, organisations can bring latency-sensitive workloads closer to their end users without compromising on the world-leading reliability and security they already expect from AWS.

Single-digit latency, local control, global scale

The AWS Local Zone in Hanoi delivers single-digit millisecond latency for applications, enabling new use cases across industries–from financial services executing trades with millisecond responsiveness, to gaming and media companies lowering latency for real-time multiplayer experiences and live-streaming.

Organisations maintain full control over where their data resides, allowing customers to run workloads in AWS Regions and the AWS Local Zone in Hanoi using the same APIs and tools.

"Vietnam is one of the most dynamic digital economies in Southeast Asia, and its builders are moving fast. The AWS Local Zone in Hanoi puts world-class compute and storage where it matters most: closer to their customers, making sure Vietnamese organisations have what they need to build, scale, and compete without compromise," said Jeff Johnson, managing director, ASEAN, AWS.

Pham Duc Long, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, said, "The launch of the AWS Local Zone in Hanoi will provide a low-latency, secure cloud computing platform and contribute to supporting Vietnamese businesses' technology needs. AWS's investment reflects its belief in Vietnam's dynamic digital economy, affirming Vietnam's position as a rapidly developing digital hub in Asia. We welcome AWS to invest in Vietnam, collaborate with Vietnamese businesses, foster innovation, develop digital talent, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Vietnam's digital ecosystem."

The AWS Local Zone in Hanoi also supports enterprise migration scenarios, including VMware workload migration and hybrid cloud modernisation. This capability is crucial for organisations such as telecommunications companies that process subscriber data locally to help support their data localisation compliance efforts.

It is also one of the first AWS Local Zones to offer Amazon Simple Storage Service One Zone-Infrequent Access storage class and Amazon Elastic Block Store Local Snapshots, giving customers local object storage and snapshot capabilities to help meet data residency requirements. Healthcare providers, for example, can leverage these capabilities to process medical imaging and patient data locally, supporting improved patient care while helping address data residency considerations.

Additionally, the AWS Local Zone in Hanoi provides customers access to Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud instance types, enabling businesses to run demanding applications with compute-optimized, general-purpose, or memory-optimized instances. Organisations can connect through the internet or use AWS Direct Connect for private, dedicated network connectivity to AWS infrastructure worldwide.

The AWS Local Zone in Hanoi joins AWS's global network of Local Zones across over 30 metro areas on six continents. It delivers a consistent AWS experience, built with multiple layers of access controls, continuous monitoring, and redundant connectivity. Organisations deploying workloads in the Local Zone can take advantage of AWS's broad compliance initiative, which is designed to support 143 security standards and compliance certifications globally, including standards relevant to financial services, healthcare, government, and other regulated industries.

The AWS Local Zone in Hanoi uses the same pay-as-you-go, on-demand pricing as AWS Regions. There are no upfront investments, minimum commitments, or long-term contracts required. This makes it easy for organisations to start using the Local Zone immediately, control costs by paying only for what they use, and scale up and down as their needs change.

Vietnamese customers lead the way

Vietnamese organisations across industries are already leveraging the AWS Local Zone in Hanoi for their operations, such as leading banks delivering real-time digital experiences and AI-powered customer insights such as VIB, and VPBank; fintech innovators advancing AI-driven credit-scoring and financial inclusion such as Trusting Social; and technology companies building next-generation digital platforms such as Green SM.

These initial AWS Local Zone in Hanoi users are also part of the wider community of customers choosing to run their workloads on AWS, which include startups such as AI Hay, and Eklipse.gg; education users such as the Faculty of English Language and Culture, VNU-ULIS; and customers across sectors such as manufacturing, broadcast and more such as Foobla, LPBS, MOMO, Techcombank, Vinamilk, VTV, and many more.

"Congratulations to AWS as it deepens infrastructure investment in Vietnam with robust local cloud capabilities — it is a clear message to the global business community that Vietnam is a growing region well worth investing in," said Virginia B. Foote, chair of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi.

The AWS Local Zone in Hanoi represents its latest investment in Vietnamese innovation, showing its commitment to supporting Vietnam's digital transformation and economic growth. It enables organisations to innovate globally while maintaining local control, compliance, and performance.

The launch joins its other investments in Vietnam including Amazon CloudFront edge locations in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, AWS Direct Connect in Hanoi, and AWS Global Accelerator support via the Ho Chi Minh City edge location.

AWS continues long-term commitment to digital transformation Amazon Web Services will continue to heavily invest in Vietnam, spanning in infrastructure, partner ecosystem development and skills training as part of its long-term support for digital transformation in the country.

The 20th anniversary of AWS: Vietnam and the next chapter of cloud and AI Marking its 20th global anniversary, Amazon Web Services is entering a new chapter, bringing agentic AI into the hands of builders, enterprises, startups, and the public-sector. Mai-Lan Tomsen Bukovec, vice president of technology (data and analytics) at AWS, spoke with VIR’s Bich Thuy on how Vietnam can harness human-AI collaboration.

AWS chief medical officer on how tech can lower rare disease therapy barriers Modern technology could help lower the barriers to developing therapies for rare diseases. Dr. Rowland Illing, chief medical officer of AWS and director of Global Healthcare and Nonprofits, examines how more efficient access to advanced capabilities could drive progress in this area.

The information was shared at LG's event in Hanoi on June 17 to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of its Vietnam research and development (R&D) organisation, a strategic software development base that plays an increasingly important role in strengthening the company’s competitiveness in automotive software.

Since its establishment in 2016, LG’s Vietnam R&D organisation has grown from a team of around 30 professionals into a major automotive software hub. Following its incorporation as a legal entity in 2023, it now operates as a dedicated R&D subsidiary with over 1,250 software engineers, of which approximately 850 are based in Hanoi, and 400 in Danang.

LG’s Vietnam R&D subsidiary is responsible for developing core vehicle software for the VS business, including infotainment, telematics and instrument clusters. Building on these capabilities, LG Vietnam R&D is accelerating innovation by applying AI throughout the automotive software development process.

AI application ideas identified directly by developers in their day-to-day work are being incorporated into actual projects, helping establish a culture of voluntary, bottom-up innovation across the organisation. This approach reflects the ongoing evolution of LG Vietnam R&D as it continues to build on its automotive software capabilities.

LG’s Vietnam R&D subsidiary has participated in automotive software development projects for LG VS Company’s global carmaker customers. By connecting its Vietnam R&D with its research centres in South Korea, Europe and North America, LG has established a responsive, global automotive software development network capable of addressing the diverse requirements of customers.

To support the growth of its Vietnam R&D operations, LG is investing in local automotive and software talent. Through the LG Track scholarship scheme, the company identifies promising developers early, while LG Dream Code, an annual software coding competition, serves as a talent pipeline connected to future recruitment opportunities.

“Over the past decade, the LG Vietnam R&D subsidiary has become a pillar of our global automotive software development network,” said Lee Sang-yong, head of VS R&D Laboratory at the LG Vehicle Solution Company. “Looking ahead, we will continue to leverage our global R&D network to strengthen our automotive software capabilities.”

LG units in Haiphong seek $100 million support package LG Group’s major subsidiaries in Haiphong are seeking significant support to boost training, research, and high-tech production.

Qualcomm sees Vietnam moving beyond manufacturing towards innovation Qualcomm’s new R&D Center in Hanoi underscores both its long-term commitment to Vietnam and the country’s growing role in the global technology landscape. Dr. Baaziz Achour spoke with VIR’s My Kieu about Qualcomm’s evolving R&D strategy and vision for Vietnam’s future.

LG Electronics boosts Vietnam role with cybersecurity milestone LG Electronics is boosting Vietnam’s role in its global supply chain through its Haiphong Campus, which has recently achieved a top-tier cybersecurity certification. Nam-Sik Jang, head of Vehicle Component Production Cybersecurity and Jung Han Kwon, leader of Cyber Security Governance Unit at LG VS Vietnam, spoke with VIR’s Thanh Van about the company’s growth strategies and focus on security.

Located on the Ground Floor of Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon, previously recognised for its diverse international offerings, Viet Kitchen now enters a new chapter, celebrating the authenticity and richness of Vietnamese gastronomy through the distinctive flavours and traditions of the North.

The inspiration behind the new menu comes from familiar memories around the Vietnamese family dining table, where humble dishes often carry the memories, stories, and identity of a place. Rather than pursuing complexity or overly elaborate techniques, Viet Kitchen chooses to tell the story of northern cuisine through authentic, heartfelt, and familiar flavours. From the delicate tang of Sau fruit and the aroma of Vietnamese herbs to traditional homemade sauces inspired by generations of culinary practices, each dish reflects the simplicity and refinement that define the region’s culinary identity.

Previously recognised for its diverse international offerings, Viet Kitchen now enters a new chapter, celebrating the authenticity and richness of Vietnamese gastronomy

The creation of this menu has been a months-long journey of research, exploring regional culinary traditions, refining recipes, and carefully selecting signature ingredients. Each dish has gone through multiple rounds of development to achieve a balance between preserving traditional flavours and delivering a refined dining experience that meets the expectations of both local and international guests.

This transformation reflects Viet Kitchen’s new direction in bringing guests closer to Vietnamese cuisine through experiences that are approachable, meaningful, and rooted in culture. It responds to the growing interest among diners seeking authentic Vietnamese flavours thoughtfully presented in a contemporary setting. More than a place to enjoy a meal, Viet Kitchen aims to become a gathering place where guests connect, share, and celebrate meaningful moments around the Vietnamese dining table.

Looking ahead, Viet Kitchen aspires to become a destination with a strong sense of place, inviting travellers and food enthusiasts to discover Vietnamese cuisine through the cultural stories behind every dish. The restaurant continues to celebrate Northern Vietnamese culinary heritage, where familiar flavours are thoughtfully recreated, traditions are honoured, and regional stories are shared through every creation.

Taking place on 11 and 12 July 2026, from 12pm to 7pm at HarbourFront Centre, the two-day event will bring together 35 young "kidpreneurs", aged 5 to 14, who will conceptualise products, run their own booths, interact with customers and make decisions on the spot. More than just a bazaar, the event is designed as a practical learning platform where children can experience what it means to take initiative, solve problems and build confidence through doing.

Organised by Singapore Kidpreneurs, BlueTree Education, DollarsAndSense and OtterHalf, with OCBC as official sponsor and HarbourFront Centre as venue sponsor, Kidpreneurs Bazaar reflects a wider shift among Singapore parents toward learning experiences that extend beyond grades and worksheets.

In recent years, conversations around education in Singapore have increasingly focused on helping children become more adaptable, self-aware and resilient. While schools continue to play a central role in academic development, many parents are also seeking out opportunities that allow children to practise decision-making, communication and responsibility in a more hands-on setting.

At Kidpreneurs Bazaar, children do not just learn about entrepreneurship in theory. They go through a real preparation journey: attending three free workshops on business and basic financial literacy, developing a product idea, planning how to present it, setting up a booth, speaking to customers, handling sales and adjusting their approach throughout the event. Through this process, they learn what it means to make judgments, respond to feedback and take ownership of their choices.

This year's bazaar will feature 30 booths run by 35 participating children, with products and activities ranging from handmade crafts, game booths and caricatures to 3D printed jewellery, assorted plants, personalised keychains and tags. Organisers expect around 5,000 attendees across the two days.

The 2026 edition will also introduce the Kidpreneurs Pitch Tank, where participating kidpreneurs will take part in a friendly competition and present their business ideas to experienced business owners. With six categories in place, the platform is designed to recognise different strengths and give young participants a chance to grow in confidence while receiving real-world encouragement and exposure.

Beyond entrepreneurship, the event also aims to nurture financial literacy and life skills in an accessible and age-appropriate way. By pricing products, speaking to customers and experiencing the realities of selling, children begin to understand the value of money, the effort behind earning it, and the importance of communication, adaptability and resilience.

Organisers also noted that 80 per cent of participants expressed interest in returning, based on survey findings from previous editions, reflecting the event's growing appeal among families looking for meaningful, experience-based learning.

"Children need real-world spaces where they can try, fail, adapt and discover what they are capable of," said Jolene Ang, Founder of Singapore Kidpreneurs. "In Singapore, we talk a lot about preparing children for the future, but confidence, judgment and resilience cannot be built through instruction alone. They need to be experienced. Kidpreneurs Bazaar gives children that opportunity in a way that is practical, memorable and deeply empowering."

In addition to the bazaar and pitch competition, this year's event will also feature stage programmes by special youths, in collaboration with Singapore Fashion Runway, creating another platform for young people to showcase their talents and sell their products in a supportive public setting.

Members of the public can visit Kidpreneurs Bazaar 2026 on 11 and 12 July 2026, from 12pm to 7pm at HarbourFront Centre. Families can expect a lively, interactive environment featuring young booth owners, product showcases, pitch sessions and stage performances.

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

Liu Xiaoming, Governor of the People's Government of Hainan Province, and Cheuk Wing-hing, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, attended the events and delivered speeches. During the promotional session, Chen Tiejun, Director of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province, unveiled the "Top Ten Calling Cards of Hainan Tourism," which received enthusiastic responses and positive feedback from various sectors in Hong Kong. Attendees from Hong Kong unanimously agreed that Hong Kong and Hainan boast highly complementary cultural and tourism resources and immense potential for cooperation.

Since the launch of special customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port, its distinctive opening-up advantages, such as "zero tariffs, low tax rates, a simplified tax system" and "tariff exemption for value-added processing," have become increasingly prominent. These policies have continuously made Hainan more attractive to businesses and opened up broader opportunities for Hong Kong investors and entrepreneurs.

On the same day, at the "Invest in the Free Trade Port, Share New Opportunities" Symposium for Hong Kong Enterprises held in Hong Kong, four cooperation agreements were formally signed, covering high-end commerce, cultural and tourism integration, and regional industrial coordination. Hong Kong business representatives expressed strong interest in deepening their presence in Hainan.

Hainan and Hong Kong share a long history of cooperation, and in recent years, a steady stream of favorable policies has been introduced. Since the signing of the Hainan-Hong Kong Memorandum of Cooperation in March 2025, bilateral cooperation has accelerated across the board. In 2025, goods trade between the two sides reached RMB 9.35 billion, increasing by more than two times from 2020. A total of 793 new Hong Kong-funded enterprises were established in Hainan, a year-on-year increase of 21.5%. Hainan has also issued offshore RMB bonds in Hong Kong for four consecutive years, with a cumulative total of RMB 18 billion. Currently, an average of four direct flights operate daily between Hong Kong and Hainan, with the fastest travel time under two hours, facilitating the rapid emergence of the "Hainan-Hong Kong Living Circle."

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

This year's celebration unfolds as a 13-day dragon boat carnival along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, running from 19 June to 1 July. Blending traditions and modern elements, the festival features exciting races, festive delicacies and immersive cultural experiences, creating an unforgettable summer destination for locals as well as tourists from Chinese Mainland and overseas. Sun Life has also curated a series of exclusive activities to infuse the community with even more joy and energy.

Adley Low, Chief Client and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Hong Kong Limited, said: "Dragon boat racing is a powerful symbol of Hong Kong's cultural identity and a meaningful way to bring people together. We are thrilled to partner with the Hong Kong Tourism Board as the title sponsor of the 'Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival' and 'Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races', to present this international event on an even bigger scale this year. As Sun Life prepares to welcome our 135th anniversary in Hong Kong, we are proud to contribute to the local mega-event economy while deepening our connections with the community, reflecting our ongoing commitment to helping Clients live healthier, more fulfilling lives."

Design your own dragon boat at the "Sun Life HK Dragon Boat Co-Creation Zone"

The "Sun Life HK Dragon Boat Co-Creation Zone" is an interactive installation located on the ground floor of the K11 MUSEA Promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui, open from 19 June to 1 July. Visitors can unleash their creativity by designing their own dragon boat, experience the thrill of paddling and capture these moments through AI-generated personalized short videos. There will be also a dedicated photo spot that offers a scenic setting for memorable photo opportunities. For online engagement, the public can join in the excitement via Sun Life's official social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram), where interactive games will bring the buzz of the Dragon Boat Festival anytime, anywhere.

Event details:

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Galaxy Macau has been ranked among the Top 10 Integrated Resorts in Asia and the Pacific, a testament to its exceptional blend of luxury hospitality, world-class entertainment, and immersive experiences. This prestigious recognition underscores the resort\'s leadership in delivering unparalleled excellence and unforgettable moments for global travellers.

The world-class luxury resort\'s iconic Grand Resort Deck—home to the world\'s largest skytop surfable wave pool—has once again been named \"Best Hotel Pool in Macau,\" reaffirming its status as the region\'s ultimate aquatic playground. Spanning an impressive 75,000 square metres, this one-of-a-kind rooftop oasis features an 8,000-square-metre wave pool generating swells of up to 1.5 metres, alongside a 150-metre pristine white sand beach, exhilarating water slides, and the world\'s longest skytop adventure rapids. Blending high-energy excitement with resort-style relaxation, the Grand Resort Deck delivers an unparalleled summer experience, where guests can immerse themselves in waves, sunshine, and luxury at every turn.

The swimming pool at Banyan Tree Macau has earned a place among the \"Top 10 Macau Pools,\" securing third place in recognition of its refined, resort-style elegance. Renowned for its tranquil ambiance, private pool villas, and lush surroundings, it offers an exclusive retreat that perfectly blends relaxation, privacy, and understated luxury.

Making its debut on the prestigious \"Top 10 Macau Hotels\" list less than two years after opening, Raffles at Galaxy Macau exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury for personalised stays. This exquisite all-suite sanctuary features approximately 450 elegantly appointed residential-style suites, some with private heated pools and lush gardens. Elevated by the iconic Raffles Butler service and distinctive, award-winning gastronomy with the Raffles Lounge and Long Bar among its experiential dining options, it offers a gracious and immersive expression of luxury living in the heart of Cotai.

Two of Galaxy Macau\'s most exceptional wellness sanctuaries—The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau and Banyan Tree Spa Macau—have been named among the \"Top 10 Hotel Spas in Macau,\" reinforcing the resort\'s reputation for world-class relaxation for its treasured guests.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau offers a refined retreat inspired by Macau\'s rich Chinese and Portuguese heritage, featuring elegant treatment rooms, vitality pools, and bespoke therapies designed to restore body and mind in complete privacy. Meanwhile, the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa Macau spans an expansive 3,400 square metres, creating a tranquil sanctuary for the senses with an extensive menu of Asian-inspired treatments delivered by expert therapists in an atmosphere of tropical serenity. Together, these two distinguished spas exemplify Galaxy Macau\'s commitment to delivering elevated wellness experiences, where indulgence, craftsmanship, and rejuvenation come together seamlessly.

Together, these hard-won accolades highlight Galaxy Macau\'s customised, attention-oriented service philosophy, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create meaningful, memorable experiences. As the resort continues to redefine the boundaries of luxury, it remains a destination of choice for the world\'s most discerning travellers.

With this latest raft of distinguished honours, Galaxy Macau is committed to elevating its integrated resort offering with a portfolio of superlative luxury hospitality, dining, retail, and entertainment experiences. Dedicated to excellence and innovation, it is redefining the guest experience; bringing new expressions of personalised luxury to Macau and beyond.

For more information about Galaxy Macau, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

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

• Revising and enhancing its 2030 Sustainability Goals;
• Establishing and strengthening a due diligence system for woodchip and pulp procurement;
• Conducting its first Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions inventory to advance decarbonisation efforts across the value chain; and
• Joining the United Nations Global Compact, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices.

Looking ahead, Asia Symbol, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, remains committed to working closely with stakeholders to advance sustainable development. The company will continue to adopt higher standards, implement practical actions and deepen its sustainability practices to help address shared environmental and social challenges. Through collaboration and innovation, Asia Symbol aims to contribute to balanced progress across the economy, society and the environment.

The Asia Symbol 2025 Sustainability Report is available at:
https://www.asiasymbol.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report.
https://www.asiasymbol.com

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

Skellefteå can, through Society Expo 2026, play an important role by shifting the global sustainability conversation from ambition to implementation. You could say that we know the recipe for sustainability, but now it is up to us to make sure that we use this recipe and share what is working as well as what is not working. The challenge is how to turn ambitions into practical solutions that work in real communities.

Helena Renström, head of Society Expo 2026, Skellefteå municipality. Photo: skelleftea.se

From Skellefteå's perspective, this is where local communities have a unique contribution to make. For example: when a large industry is established, the local municipality needs to deal with consequences and opportunities for handling both the growth of the industry and a possible downturn, even if the investment is important not only for the region, but also for Sweden and Europe (or even on a larger scale).

Our experience from the turbulence over the last years is that responsibilities are often “pushed down” in the system. The purpose of Society Expo is to learn from those types of processes and share our knowledge with the rest of the world.

One example is that we, through our newly established network “CITE – Cities in Transition Europe,” collaborate with medium-sized cities across Europe that are navigating industrial transformation, climate adaptation and demographic change.

We may not always attract the same attention as major global capitals, but we are perfect societies for testing innovation, refining processes and implementing them on a larger scale. One of the key lessons from our journey is the importance of creating partnerships between public organisations, business, government, academia and civil society. Because of the simple fact that a local municipality is not able to handle social transformation on its own.

Society Expo 2026

Skellefteå's experience with the green industrial transition has reinforced this lesson. Large investments and technological innovation are important, but lasting success depends on whether we can create attractive communities where people want to live, work and build their future. Housing, education, culture, social sustainability, mobility and quality of life are just as important as industrial and green development.

I believe Society Expo offers an opportunity to connect cities and regions facing similar challenges around the world. Ultimately, sustainable transformation is about people. Technology can enable change, but trust, participation and quality of life are what make change lasting.

Are there particular Swedish innovations or approaches that you believe deserve greater international attention?

When people think about Swedish innovation, they often focus on technology such as Spotify, Volvo or IKEA. While technology is important, I believe one of Sweden's greatest strengths is our ability to build trust-based collaboration between sectors as well as our high-trust society.

High-trust societies are especially excellent for getting things done. Many of Sweden's most successful innovations emerge from close cooperation between industry, government, academia and citizens. This collaborative culture makes it easier to move from ideas to implementation.

I also believe that the Swedish approach to sustainability deserves greater attention. We come from a rather “holistic thinking” society. Instead of treating sustainability as a separate policy area, we can see signs of our society increasingly viewing it as a driver of competitiveness, innovation and long-term prosperity. We do not see sustainability as “only” the environmental aspects, it must also include social sustainability as well as economic sustainability.

These approaches may not always be seen as innovations in the traditional sense, but they are increasingly important in a world where resilience and adaptability are becoming critical competitive advantages.

Society Expo 2026

Northern Sweden is experiencing major industrial transformation. What lessons the world learn from sustainable developments in regions like Skellefteå?

The most important lesson is that industrial transformation and societal transformation must happen simultaneously. In Skellefteå, we have learned that attracting investments and creating jobs is only part of the equation.

If growth is to be sustainable, it must be matched by investments in housing, infrastructure, education, public services and attractive living environments. And the name - Society Expo 2026 – comes from our ambition to stress the need for a societal perspective.

Another lesson is the value of collaboration, and also the need to collaborate, especially during hard times. The complexity of today's challenges means that no single actor can succeed alone. Businesses, municipalities, universities and civil society need to work together around shared goals, even if it is hard to collaborate, we still need to do it.

The third lesson is that medium-sized cities can play a leading role in global transformation. They are often agile enough to test new approaches while still operating on a scale where successful solutions can be replicated elsewhere. As mentioned, the green transition is ultimately not a technology project. It is a societal project.

Looking ahead to 2035, what characteristics will define successful and resilient societies?

By 2035, I believe the most successful societies will be those that combine adaptability with social cohesion. We need, of course, to listen to our inhabitants. But at the same time look at what research says about successful societies. Sometimes this overlaps, but sometimes it doesn’t. This balance is delicate, and we need to be courageous enough to make the right long-term decisions and instil hope, even when challenges lie ahead. Successful societies will be able to continuously adapt to changing circumstances.

Society Expo 2026

I also believe that quality of place will become increasingly important. People and companies are becoming more mobile, and communities that offer a strong sense of belonging, high quality of life and opportunities for participation will have a significant advantage.

Most importantly, resilient societies will understand that economic, environmental and social sustainability are interconnected. Long-term success depends on balancing all three.

Vietnam–Sweden economic ties more robust and diversified Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s official visit to Sweden marks a significant milestone in the enduring diplomatic relationship between Vietnam and Sweden, which began in 1969 when Sweden became the first Western country to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam.

Strengthening Swedish–Vietnamese innovation and trade ties Sweden is strengthening ties with Vietnam on sustainable development and green infrastructure through a high-level visit.

Sweden’s Peak Education eyes $60 million eco-resort in Quang Ngai On June 8, Sweden-based Peak Education Limited has proposed the construction of a carbon-neutral eco-resort in Quang Ngai with a total investment of $60 million.

Swedish companies deepen long-term commitment to Vietnam More than 55 years after Sweden became the first Western country to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam, the relationship is entering a new chapter that is increasingly shaped by trade, investment, innovation and the green transition.

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

The growing variety of higher education options presents both opportunities and challenges for students. While many may have an interest in entrepreneurship or business, determining the most suitable academic pathway is often less straightforward.

Entrepreneurship today extends beyond the traditional concept of starting a business. It can encompass leading innovation within established organisations, developing new products and services, scaling family-owned enterprises, creating social ventures, or participating in emerging start-up ecosystems. As a result, students are increasingly seeking educational pathways that align with their individual interests, strengths and long-term goals.

A well-informed educational choice can help students develop the competencies most relevant to their intended career direction, whether that involves business leadership, digital innovation, market expansion or social impact.

Building a Foundation Through Business Education

A business-related degree can provide aspiring entrepreneurs with a broad understanding of how organisations operate. Entrepreneurs need to understand markets, customers, finance, operations, competition and strategy. They also need to make decisions with limited resources and adapt quickly when business conditions change.

At SIM GE, business-related programmes allow students to explore fields such as analytics, strategy, marketing and management. These areas are relevant to students who want to develop a practical understanding of how businesses are built, managed and grown.

For students who are still exploring their future direction, a business pathway can provide flexibility. It can prepare them for employment, support future postgraduate or professional learning, and build a foundation that may later be applied to entrepreneurial ventures.

Management programmes for future leaders and founders

Entrepreneurship is often associated with ideas, innovation and opportunity. However, successful ventures also depend on effective management. Founders must lead people, manage resources, build processes, work with partners and make decisions that affect the long-term sustainability of the business.

Management-focused programmes are therefore especially relevant for students who want to understand how organisations are led and how teams work together. Such programmes can help learners develop perspectives on leadership, planning, decision-making and organisational effectiveness.

For future entrepreneurs, management knowledge is important because a strong idea must eventually be supported by the ability to execute. Whether students later start their own businesses or lead innovation within existing organisations, management capabilities can help them turn ambition into action.

The Growing Importance of Data and Analytics

As organisations become increasingly data-driven, analytical capabilities have become a valuable component of entrepreneurial decision-making. Entrepreneurs are expected to evaluate market opportunities, understand customer behaviour and assess business performance using data and technology.

Analytics-related programmes can help students develop these capabilities, enabling them to make more informed decisions and respond effectively to changing business conditions. Such skills are particularly relevant for those interested in digital business, e-commerce, technology ventures and business intelligence.

Marketing and international business for market-ready ventures

A strong business idea also needs a clear target market and a business strategy to back it up . Students who are interested in brand-building, customer engagement, communications or market expansion may benefit from marketing and international business-related pathways.

Marketing-focused learning can help students understand consumer behaviour, positioning, customer experience and value creation. International business exposure can help students think beyond a single market, especially in a region such as Southeast Asia where businesses often need to understand cross-border opportunities.

For future entrepreneurs, these perspectives can support the development of ventures that are customer-focused, market-aware and better prepared for regional or global growth.

Entrepreneurship and Social Impact

Entrepreneurship is increasingly being viewed through a broader lens that includes social and environmental outcomes. Alongside commercial objectives, many entrepreneurs are seeking to address societal challenges and contribute to sustainable development.

Initiatives such as the Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre reflect the growing interest in social innovation and impact-driven enterprise. Exposure to these concepts can help students explore how entrepreneurial thinking can be applied to create sustainable solutions for communities and society.

Preparing for the Future

While there is no single educational pathway that guarantees entrepreneurial success, the most appropriate route depends on an individual's interests, strengths and aspirations. However, regardless of specialisation, future entrepreneurs will require a combination of technical knowledge, critical thinking, adaptability, leadership and communication skills.

As Singapore continues to strengthen its position as a hub for enterprise, innovation and regional business activity, education remains an important foundation for entrepreneurial development. By providing access to diverse academic pathways and internationally recognised programmes, institutions such as SIM GE support students in making informed decisions and developing the capabilities needed to navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic business environment.

For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the journey begins not with the launch of a venture, but with the educational choices that help shape future opportunities.

References

1. SIM GE University Partners - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge
2. SIM Global Education - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview
3. SIM GE Business Programmes - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/disciplines/business
4. SIM GE Management Programmes - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/disciplines/business/management
5. SIM GE Business Analytics Programmes - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/disciplines/business/business-analytics
6. SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
7. The Future of Job 2025 Report - https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/digest/
8. SkillsFuture Critical Core Skills - https://jobsandskills.skillsfuture.gov.sg/frameworks/critical-core-skills
9. Singapore Ranks 4^th Global Startup Ecosystem - https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/-/media/esg/files/media-centre/media-releases/2025/may/mr02125_singapore_ranks_as_4th_best_global_startup_ecosystem.pdf

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

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg

Students exploring higher education often face several practical concerns. They may wonder whether they will make friends, whether they will be supported if they struggle, whether they will have opportunities to develop leadership skills, and whether they can access career guidance before entering the workforce.

SIM GE addresses these concerns through a campus ecosystem that combines student clubs, leadership development, peer support, wellbeing programmes and career services. Through Project 1095, SIM GE highlights that education extends beyond books, exams and qualifications, encompassing knowledge, skills and activities both inside and outside the classroom. This approach supports students who want a fuller higher education experience to grow personally, socially and professionally.

Building networks through clubs and co-curricular activities

Student clubs and co-curricular activities are among the first ways SIM GE students build connections on campus. SIM offers nearly 80 student clubs across areas such as arts and culture, international student clubs, student councils, special interest groups, sports and fitness. These activities allow students to broaden their interests, discover new talents and interact with peers beyond their academic programmes.

For students, these communities can make networking feel more natural. Instead of viewing networking only as a formal career activity, students can begin by working with peers on events, competitions, club projects and leadership initiatives. These experiences help students develop communication, teamwork, confidence and relationship-building skills that are valuable in both campus life and the workplace.

Developing leadership and workplace-ready skills

Leadership opportunities are another important part of the SIM GE student experience. Project 1095 states that SIM aims to prepare every student to be a leader, with opportunities ranging from leadership positions in clubs, to workshops that help students take charge of their learning journey.

These experiences are relevant to students who want to strengthen their employability before graduation. By organising activities, leading teams, managing projects and engaging with different student groups, students can develop confidence and practical skills that support their future careers. Such skills are increasingly valued by employers. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs 2025 report identifies skills such as analytical thinking, resilience, flexibility, agility, leadership and social influence as important for the future workforce.

Connecting students with career guidance and industry networks

For students seeking more direct career support, SIM Career Connect helps students develop a competitive edge, build industry networks and professional connections, and align their career aspirations with real-world opportunities. This is a key part of helping students transition from academic learning to career readiness. Through career guidance, networking opportunities and employer engagement, students can better understand industry expectations and explore potential career pathways.

SIM's Employer Engagement team also works with industry partners to connect employers with SIM GE students, supporting employers in finding the right fit from its pool of talent, and provides. For students, this access to industry networks can help reduce uncertainty about life after graduation. It also gives them opportunities to gain exposure to professional environments, employer expectations and potential career directions while still studying.

The role of mentoring in student career development

Mentoring and professional guidance are important because students often need perspective as much as information. Research on employability-oriented higher education programmes has highlighted that higher education has increasingly focused on developing students' employability competences through mentoring programmes.

Within SIM GE's broader campus life and career ecosystem, students can connect with peers, student leaders, career advisors, employers and industry opportunities. These touchpoints help students build confidence, ask the right questions, learn from others' experiences and make more informed decisions about their future.

Helping students make a more confident higher education choice

As students consider their higher education options, many are looking for more than a classroom experience. They want to know whether they will be supported, whether they can build friendships, whether they will have access to career resources, and whether they can connect with people who can help them understand the world of work. At SIM Global Education, student life plays an important role in addressing these concerns. Through clubs, co-curricular activities, student leadership, peer support, wellbeing services, career guidance and employer engagement, SIM GE provides students with opportunities to build meaningful connections and develop future-ready skills.

For students choosing their next step in higher education, these experiences can make a significant difference. They help you move from uncertainty to confidence, from participation to leadership, and from academic learning to stronger career readiness.

Reference

1. SIM Global Education - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/sim-ge
2. New insights on countries' objectives to support student well-being in higher education - https://www.iesalc.unesco.org/en/articles/new-insights-countries-objectives-support-student-well-being-higher-education
3. Project1095 - https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
4. Future of Job Report - https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/
5. SIM Career Service - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
6. Measuring mentoring in employability-oriented higher education programs: scale development and validation - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10170025/
7. Wellness and Counselling - https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/student-care

https://www.sim.edu.sg/

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

The release addresses four structural problems with the AMS model that enterprises running Oracle and Workday have lived with for two decades.

Time to deploy. Traditional AMS engagements take months to scope, onboard, and ramp to full coverage. Athena Starter deploys in two weeks - from contract execution to production agents running inside the customer\'s Oracle or Workday tenant.

Quality of work. Hero\'s agents reason through tickets in the customer\'s actual tenant - exploring, planning, and validating before posting. Report development tickets, historically the worst offenders on enterprise SLA reports, complete 70% faster on Hero. Plain English in, validated SQL out, executed inside the tenant.

Long-term support drag. Hero reduces Oracle ticket backlogs by 50% in the first 30 days for Starter customers, with a sustained 60% reduction in the active ticket queue by the end of year one for Pro customers. SLAs across customer engagements run 50% faster. Every ticket Hero closes is a ticket the customer\'s AMS provider does not bill for.

Proof. Dayos used Hero internally to retire its own ServiceNow ITSM environment in 45 days, with 60% of Tier 1 tickets now resolved autonomously. The deployment is documented as a reference case in Section 2.1 of the IMDA Model AI Governance Framework for Agentic AI, published by Singapore\'s Infocomm Media Development Authority at ATxSG in May 2026, alongside case studies from AWS, DBS, Google, Workday, OCBC, Tencent, PwC, and GovTech.

\"AMS providers bill per ticket or per hour. Hero closes tickets at no marginal cost on top of the platform fee. Every ticket Hero closes is one your AMS provider doesn\'t bill for,\" said Brad McElhannon, Founder and CEO of Dayos.

AVAILABLE NOW AND AHEAD

Athena Starter is available at USD 60,000 per year, delivering 50% Oracle ticket backlog reduction in 30 days, 70% faster report development, and 50% faster SLAs. Athena Pro is available at USD 150,000 per year, adding custom agent development and a contractually committed 60% sustained reduction in the active ticket queue by the end of year one. Plan details and outcome breakdowns by tier are at dayos.com/plans (https://www.dayos.com/plans).

The Athena Hero release ships with full support for Oracle and Workday. SAP availability is targeted for January 2027.

Hero is built on Google\'s Agent Development Kit (ADK) with Gemini as the lead reasoning model, and operates under ISO 42001-aligned governance with SOC 2 Type II controls. Athena enters general availability, with active enterprise deployments across the Asia-Pacific region.

https://www.dayos.com

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

Speaking to the media during a visit to Bangkok, Professor Rose said economies with deep international trust and stable regional relationships are increasingly well positioned as businesses rethink where they invest, manufacture and expand.

"In a world where global alignments are shifting and supply chains are being redrawn, trust becomes a strategic asset," said Professor Rose. "Thailand has spent decades building strong relationships across Asia and beyond. That foundation becomes more valuable in periods of uncertainty."

A pivotal moment for Thailand

Thailand's current environment is demanding, and the International Monetary Fund's World Economic Outlook (April 2026) projects growth of 1.5 per cent in 2026.

Professor Rose noted that rising energy costs, softer long-haul tourism demand and rapid AI adoption are creating near-term pressure across key sectors of the Thai economy. However, he said periods of disruption often create the conditions for long-term competitive repositioning.

"The economies that emerge stronger are usually the ones that adapt earliest," as Professor Rose. "Leadership capability, agility and the ability to navigate change will determine who captures the next decade of growth."

The comments come as businesses across Southeast Asia accelerate investment in AI, digital transformation and workforce reskilling amid growing global economic fragmentation.

A 2026 Milieu Insight study of 3,000 workers across six Southeast Asian markets including Thailand found that 53 per cent ranked over-dependence on AI as their top concern, ahead of privacy risks and job displacement. This suggests that organisations in Thailand and across the region must do more to guide, not just deploy, new technology.

Building regional leadership capability

Addressing these challenges requires more than a policy response alone. Professor Rose emphasised that both multinationals and SMEs must build their adaptation strategies around talent and leadership development to power Thailand's growth engine.

Ms Usa Skulkerewathana, Senior Lecturer at NUS Business School, said Thai organisations should consider focusing on strengthening talent development and practical AI readiness rather than treating technology as a standalone solution.

"This is not a wait-and-see moment," said Ms Skulkerewathana. "Thai businesses that invest early in leadership, digital capability and workforce resilience will be better positioned to compete regionally and internationally."

Singapore's role as Asia's financial and educational hub offers Thai professionals and organisations a natural gateway to build regional leadership capability. Thai professionals and executives have, for decades, benefitted from NUS Business School's MBA, MSc and executive education programmes, including the Stanford–NUS Executive Programme and other senior leadership initiatives developed with global academic and industry partners. Thai enrolment has remained steady over the past five years as professionals seek regional exposure and globally benchmarked leadership training.

Thailand's "trust capital" is intact, and its position within a reorganising ASEAN is reinforced by the changes underway. The Thai institutions and business leaders that treat "trust capital" as a competitive asset, and build the leadership depth to deploy it, will define the country's next chapter of growth.

https://bschool.nus.edu.sg/

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

In announcing the results, the IMD noted that, amid rising geopolitical tensions, competitive advantage hinges on credible institutions, predictable rules, enforceable commitments and public trust.

According to WCY 2026, Hong Kong's rise reflects sustained performance across the four competitiveness factors measured. Among these factors, Hong Kong ranks second in "Government efficiency" and third in "Business efficiency". "Infrastructure" and "Economic performance" rank eighth and 11^th respectively.

As regards the various competitiveness sub-factors, Hong Kong tops the rankings in "Tax policy" and "Business legislation", ranks second in "Finance", third in "International trade", "International investment", "Management practices" and "Education", and fourth in "Public finance" and "Basic infrastructure".

"In the competitiveness factor 'Government efficiency', Hong Kong continues to rank second globally, reflecting the HKSAR Government's ongoing efforts to promote free and open, stable, predictable and business-friendly economic policies, as well as the international community's trust in Hong Kong's legal and regulatory environment," the spokesperson said.

"Hong Kong's 'Business efficiency' is ranked third globally, reflecting the strong support for industry development rendered by our robust financial ecosystem, as well as the seamless alignment of the city's business practices and environment with international best standards."

Amid rapidly evolving geopolitical dynamics, Hong Kong, with its close connectivity to both the Chinese Mainland and the world under the "one country, two systems" principle, and its sound institutions, open markets and sustained investments in innovation, has become a "value hub" that offers both security and growth opportunities.

In fact, Hong Kong continues to excel in various international rankings including those for economy, finance, and talent. The International Monetary Fund has also given positive recognition to Hong Kong in recent months, and major credit rating agencies have successively reaffirmed Hong Kong's credit ratings and 'stable' outlook.

"All these echo the WCY 2026 results," the spokesperson said.

Currently, Hong Kong is formulating at full speed its first Five-Year Plan, to proactively align with the National 15^th Five-Year Plan.

"With the staunch support of our country, the HKSAR Government will work together with all sectors of society to strengthen our role and function as a 'super connector' and 'super value-adder', with a view to better integrating into and serving the overall national development, achieving our own high-quality development, creating more new room for development for our people and businesses, as well as opening up new opportunities for global investors and enterprises," the spokesperson said.

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

The agreement, announced on June 18, was arranged and committed by a group of banks including Maybank Securities Pte. Ltd., Bank of China (Hong Kong), CTBC Bank Co., Ltd. Singapore Branch, Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd., First Commercial Bank Offshore Banking Branch, Hua Nan Commercial Bank Offshore Banking Branch, KGI Bank Co., Ltd., and Taipei Fubon Commercial Bank Co., Ltd.

This transaction marks another significant milestone in Vietcap’s ongoing strategy to diversify funding sources and strengthen access to international capital markets. It also represents Vietcap’s largest financing to date, featuring the highest number of mandated lead arrangers and bookrunners.

The participation of leading regional financial institutions reflects continued confidence in Vietcap’s financial strength, governance standards, and growth prospects. By securing access to a substantial pool of foreign capital at a competitive cost, Vietcap is well positioned to enhance its business operations, expand its capital base, and deliver value to its clients and shareholders.

Since 2020, Vietcap has diversified its funding sources through offshore loan facilities. Last November, the firm secured a $120 million unsecured syndicated loan with a greenshoe option to increase it by up to $130 million. That transaction was arranged by a group of banks including Maybank Securities Pte. Ltd., Maybank International Labuan Branch, CTBC Bank Co., Ltd. Singapore Branch, Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd., Taipei Fubon Commercial Bank Co., Ltd., Taishin International Bank Co., Ltd. Singapore Branch, and Union Bank of Taiwan Co. Ltd.

In July 2025, Vietcap also obtained $41.6 million unsecured club loan arranged by CTBC Bank Co., Ltd., Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd., Taipei Fubon Commercial Bank Co., Ltd., First Commercial Bank Co., Ltd., Offshore Banking Branch, and Union Bank of Taiwan.

Vietcap’s VAD 2026 draws strong global investor turnout Vietcap’s Vietnam Access Days conference highlighted rising global interest in Vietnam’s capital markets, drawing record participation from offshore funds and corporate leaders.

VinFast secures $190 million loan for its EV plant in Indonesia VinFast has signed a long-term syndicated loan agreement to finance the construction of its electric vehicle assembly plant in Indonesia.

CGIF backs SCommerce's $22.3m bond to advance Vietnam's logistics sector An Asian Development Bank trust fund – Credit Guarantee and Investment Facility – has guaranteed SCommerce Investment Corporation’s debut bond issuance, a seven-year, VND580 billion ($22.3 million) fixed-rate amortising bond.

First introduced in 2025, YOYO is a proprietary IP developed by MINISO that celebrates themes of companionship, joy and everyday experiences. Defined by its signature pumpkin-shaped head and minimalist dot eyes, YOYO has quickly gained popularity among consumers worldwide.

Running from June 20 to July 12 in Vanderbilt Hall® at New York's Grand Central Terminal—one of New York City's busiest and most recognizable landmarks—the MINISO YOYO Small Yet Significant Exhibition features 50 5-foot tall YOYO figures and a towering 40-foot giant YOYO inflatable spanning both classic and newly released YOYO collections alongside a series of designs developed in collaboration with global artists, creators, fans, and local community groups. Through these collaborations, the project extends YOYO beyond a single character into a platform that encourages community participation, global co-creation, and shared public engagement.

Through YOYO's eyes, each piece captures a small yet meaningful moment, celebrating the simple, often overlooked happiness of everyday life. The exhibition reflects MINISO's belief that life is for fun and that joy can be found in even the smallest moments. By introducing YOYO at an enlarged scale into a high-traffic city space, the exhibition brings these subtle emotional experiences into a shared public setting, inviting audiences to rediscover simple yet meaningful moments of warmth and companionship within the rhythm of the city.

The exhibition is a key moment in MINISO's ongoing global IP development strategy and the company's continued evolution into an IP operation platform. Looking ahead, MINISO will continue exploring new ways to bring its "Life is for Fun" philosophy into everyday experiences worldwide.

The exhibition will run from June 20 to July 12 at Vanderbilt Hall® in Grand Central Terminal, New York City.

When the reverse stock split becomes effective, every thirty (30) of the Company's issued and outstanding Class A ordinary shares will be combined into one issued and outstanding Class A ordinary share, without any change to the no-par value per share. This will reduce the number of outstanding Class A ordinary shares from approximately 96.05 million shares to approximately 3.2 million shares. Immediately following the effective time of the reverse stock split, the Company's Class A ordinary shares will have the same voting rights and will be identical in all other respects to the Class A ordinary shares prior to the effectiveness of the reverse stock split.

No fractional shares will be issued in connection with the reverse stock split. Shareholders who would otherwise receive a fraction of a Class A ordinary share of the Company will receive one full share.

The reverse stock split is primarily intended to bring the Company into compliance with the $1.00 minimum bid price requirement for maintaining its Nasdaq listing.

Management Commentary

"Maintaining our listing on the Nasdaq is a clear priority, and this reverse split ensures we meet the exchange's minimum bid price criteria," said Mike Fu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of YY Group. "With the completion of our $20 million At-The-Market equity program on June 16, our balance sheet is stabilized and our near-term funding requirements are met. Management is now fully focused on expanding our technology platform and scaling our commercial humanoid robotics operations, allowing us to drive high-margin growth and build long-term value for our shareholders."

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For additional information about Flexsys, please visit www.flexsys.com

JENA, Germany, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ZEISS Medical Technology, one of the world's leading medical technology companies, today announced a strategic collaboration with Envision Health Technologies, a leading digital eye health company founded by renowned glaucoma surgeon Dr. Lama A. Al-Aswad, to help advance glaucoma care through gamified virtual reality (VR) technology. The collaboration aims to firmly strengthen scientific and clinical credibility in VR-based visual function testing, supported by ZEISS' long history of innovation in perimetry.

ZEISS's collaboration with Envision Health Technologies comes at a time when demand is growing for broader access to glaucoma screenings and more flexible workflow solutions, driving enhanced industry interest in portable, software-driven approaches to visual function testing. Through this strategic collaboration, ZEISS and Envision Health Technologies will bring together clinical expertise and software innovation to help advance clinically relevant, patient-centered technologies for modern glaucoma care.

"As glaucoma care continues to evolve, clinicians are looking for solutions that improve patient accessibility, flexibility and experience without compromising clinical confidence. Our collaboration with Envision Health Technologies reflects ZEISS' commitment to advancing practical, clinician-driven innovation that can help expand access to visual function testing across a range of care settings," says Anuj Kalra, Head of Chronic Disease Management at ZEISS Medical Technology.

"We believe the future of visual function testing should be more accessible, flexible, and patient-centered while remaining grounded in clinical rigor. Collaborating with ZEISS allows us to combine cutting-edge software innovation with decades of trusted market leadership in perimetry to help advance more practical solutions for real-world glaucoma care," says Lama A. Al-Aswad, MD, MPH, Founder and CEO of Envision Health Technologies. As a leading glaucoma surgeon, Dr. Al-Aswad founded Envision Health Technologies to improve outcomes for vision-threatening diseases, developing next-generation, data-driven solutions to transform how vision care is delivered, measured, and scaled.

Advancing the future of glaucoma diagnostics through clinically grounded VR innovation

The strategic collaboration between ZEISS Medical Technology and Envision Health Technologies combines ZEISS' long-term innovation strategy and leadership in visual field testing with Envision's expertise in software-driven visual function testing and virtual reality technologies to help shape the future direction of VR perimetry.

Not all products, services or offers are approved or offered in every market and approved labeling and instructions may vary from one country to another. For country-specific product information, see the appropriate country website. Product specifications are subject to change in design and scope of delivery as a result of ongoing technical development. The statements of the healthcare professionals reflect only their personal opinions and experiences and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any institution that they are affiliated with. The healthcare professionals alone are responsible for the content of their experience reported and any potential resulting infringements. Carl Zeiss Meditec AG and its affiliates to not have clinical evidence supporting the opinions and statements of the health care professionals nor accept any responsibility or liability of the healthcare professionals' content. The healthcare professionals have a contractual or other financial relationship with Carl Zeiss Meditec AG and its affiliates and have received financial support.

For further information visit: www.zeiss.com/med