PM Edition: Top 10 Business Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for October 16, 2026 – Full Text

Establishing a Research, Training and Validation Hub for Embodied AI to Accelerate Commercialisation and Industrial Adoption

HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – As embodied AI emerges as a key direction in the global development of artificial intelligence (AI), the Hong Kong Industrial Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre (FLAIR), under the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), is leveraging its years of accumulated technological expertise, industry networks and application experience to seize new opportunities arising from the Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the “AI+” initiative. In support of Hong Kong’s strategy to advance new industrialisation, FLAIR today officially launched the Embodied AI International Applications Hub (the “Hub”), Hong Kong’s first platform dedicated to the training, validation and real-world deployment of embodied AI and humanoid robotics technologies.

As a key platform for embodied AI research, development and scenario validation in Hong Kong, the Hub not only provides real-world application environments, but also serves as an integrated innovation infrastructure for technology development, model adaption and training, system validation and scenario testing. Through the Hub, FLAIR will establish a continuous optimisation mechanism for embodied AI technologies, enabling humanoid robotics and embodied AI solutions to progress from laboratory research to large-scale industrial deployment. This will support the development of new productive forces in Hong Kong and reinforce the city’s position as an international innovation and technology centre and a regional AI R&D hub.

The Hub was officially inaugurated by Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, and Hon Sunny TAN, BBS, Chairman of HKPC. In its initial phase, the Hub brings together seven technology partners and eight international scenario partners to jointly advance the research, testing and innovative application of embodied AI technologies across manufacturing, smart logistics, retail services, inspection and maintenance, as well as public services.

Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, said: “Humanoid robotics and embodied AI are key frontiers of the next wave of technological innovation, with tremendous potential to transform industrial operations and foster new quality productive forces. The establishment of the Embodied AI International Applications Hub by HKPC comes at an opportune time, providing technology partners with real-world applications for testing and optimising technologies, accelerating commercialisation, and supporting enterprises in expanding into international markets. The HKSAR Government will continue to support AI development through investments in research, funding and infrastructure, and work jointly with research institutions, tech companies, and industries to promote the large-scale development of technology, while ensuring safety and compliance.”

FLAIR: Driving the Development of the Embodied AI Industry through R&D and Validation Capabilities

Hon Sunny TAN, BBS, Chairman of HKPC, said: “The key to the development of embodied AI lies in whether robots can continuously learn and train to truly adapt to different scenarios and create tangible value. Over the years, FLAIR has continued to invest in AI and robotics R&D, building strong technical foundations in intelligent perception, autonomous decision-making, motion control and industrial applications. The Embodied AI International Applications Hub represents an important step in extending these R&D capabilities into real-world environments, enabling technology solutions to be trained, validated and optimised in Hong Kong before progressing towards industrialisation and international deployment. We hope this initiative will help position Hong Kong as a leading centre for innovation and application of embodied AI technologies.”

Building a Continuous Training and Validation Framework for Large-Scale Adoption of Embodied AI

As the technical lead of the Hub, FLAIR will establish a data-driven technology validation and optimisation framework through a closed-loop R&D process encompassing scenario definition, model adaptation and training, solution testing, performance evaluation, data feedback, technology iteration and revalidation. This framework will help enterprises continuously enhance the capability and reliability of embodied AI systems.

Unlike conventional technology showcase platforms, the core value of the Hub lies in its ability to leverage real-world scenario data and continuous operational testing to enable robots and embodied AI systems to learn operating patterns across different environments. This process continuously improves autonomous execution capabilities, task success rates, generalisation capabilities, safety and environmental adaptability. Such a continuous training and validation model is critical for advancing embodied AI technologies from proof-of-concept to commercial deployment.

Combining its AI and robotics R&D expertise, FLAIR will develop testing frameworks and evaluation standards tailored to the needs of different industries. Technologies will be assessed against multiple indicators, including operational accuracy, execution efficiency, system reliability, autonomous task completion rate, safety performance and environmental adaptability. These objective benchmarks will establish clear measures of technology maturity, helping industries reduce deployment risks and accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions.

Leveraging Hong Kong’s International Advantages to Accelerate Global Market Expansion

In logistics applications, embodied AI systems must handle a wide range of parcel specifications, warehouse environments and operational workflows. In smart manufacturing, robots are required to adapt to diverse production processes, safety requirements and equipment standards across different markets. In industrial inspection and public facility management scenarios, humanoid and quadruped robots must also demonstrate advanced full-body control and autonomous operation capabilities in complex environments.

By integrating real-world operational scenarios from different countries and regions, the Hub enables technology solutions to undergo comprehensive training and validation before deployment. As an international city, Hong Kong uniquely combines access to the Chinese Mainland market with alignment to international standards, providing an ideal cross-regional proving ground for emerging technologies, helping enterprises to refine and validate their solutions in diverse application environments, and accelerating commercialisation and market expansion across both Chinese Mainland and overseas markets.

Bringing Together Industry, Academia, Research and Applications to Build an Embodied AI Innovation Ecosystem

During the opening ceremony, officiating guests presented plaques to the first batch of technology partners, including Beijing Xingdongjiyuan Co., Ltd. (Robotera), Unitree Robotics, C​hangz​hou Microinte​lligence​ Co., Ltd, AI Squared Robotics (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., AgiBot Innovation (Shanghai) Technology Co.,Ltd., Beijing Galbot AI Co., Ltd., and Rice Robotics.

In addition to technology partners, the first batch of international scenario partners comprise Government departments and international enterprises across a wide range of sectors. These partners will provide authentic, complex and diverse real-world application scenarios, enabling robotics technologies to be tested, validated and continuously optimised in environments closely aligned with the practical needs of Hong Kong and international markets. FLAIR also presented plaques to scenario partners. Representatives from scenario partners shared practical experiences in infrastructure development, smart manufacturing, aircraft maintenance and public services, demonstrating the application of Embodied AI technologies.

Looking ahead, FLAIR will continue working closely with industry partners, research institutions and technology companies to advance embodied AI research and development, standards validation and industrial applications through the Hub, fostering an internationally influential embodied AI innovation ecosystem. HKPC will also leverage its strong industry support and promotion capabilities to help mature technology solutions developed in Hong Kong reach international markets, further strengthening the city’s strategic position as a hub for embodied AI research, validation and application.

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Hashtag: #FLAIR #HKPC

About the Hong Kong Productivity Council

The event was opened by Tin Pei Ling, Member of Parliament, and Dato’ Tony Khor Chong Boon, President of the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Associations of Malaysia (FMCCAM). Through keynote presentations, panel discussions and live technology demonstrations, participants examined how AI-driven solutions can improve customer experiences while ensuring transparency, security and responsible decision-making.

AIMCONNECT 2026 Highlights the Shift Towards Connected Mobility

During the keynote address, “The Next Mobility Economy: Intelligence, Connection, Trust,” X Star Technology CEO Shawn Yang highlighted the growing gap between consumers’ digital engagement and completed automotive transactions.

Shawn Yang noted that consumers increasingly begin their vehicle purchase journey online, with research showing strong demand for AI-supported decision-making. According to figures shared during the keynote, 90% of car buyers conduct online research before visiting dealerships, 63% expect to use AI during their next vehicle purchase and 67% believe AI will influence their financing decisions.

However, the automotive journey remains fragmented. Customers often move between dealerships, financing providers and multiple systems, creating unnecessary friction during purchasing and ownership processes.

“Customers are not lost in one stage; they are lost to the friction between them,” Yang said. Yang said. The CEO explained that the next stage of mobility innovation requires closer cooperation between automotive companies, financial institutions and technology providers. Rather than improving isolated parts of the journey, the industry must create connected experiences that allow information, decisions and services to move more efficiently between stakeholders.

During AIMCONNECT 2026, technology demonstrations showcased emerging solutions designed to address these challenges. X Star Technology presented its Xport platform, demonstrating one-click lead-to-loan matching and real-time approval capabilities. Aimotion, MStar, AI Wingman and MK.X also introduced their latest innovations, highlighting the potential of AI-enabled tools across the automotive value chain.

Building Trust as AI Takes a Greater Role in Decision-Making

A key theme throughout AIMCONNECT 2026 was the importance of trust as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly involved in customer-facing processes.

While AI can improve speed and efficiency, industry leaders emphasised that technology must operate within clear boundaries. Decisions involving financing, customer eligibility and financial commitments require transparency, human oversight and accountability.

Yang introduced X Star Technology’s proprietary Harness framework, which combines AI operating boundaries, human supervision and traceable data management. The framework is designed to ensure that AI systems operate within authorised parameters while allowing complex cases to be escalated for human review.

“In auto finance, a single flawed decision risks customer harm and regulatory non-compliance. For AI to operate across the customer journey with true autonomy, trust cannot be an afterthought; it must be engineered into the architecture from day one,” Yang said.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of balancing personalisation with privacy. While consumers increasingly expect services tailored to their needs, excessive automation or unnecessary intervention may reduce trust. Effective AI solutions must therefore combine intelligence with appropriate restraint.

Strengthening Connections Across the Auto Finance Ecosystem

Another major discussion at AIMCONNECT 2026 focused on how stronger collaboration between automotive companies, financial institutions and technology providers can create a more efficient and trusted financing experience.

During the panel discussion “Building a Connected Auto Finance Ecosystem,” moderated by MStar CEO Zhang Peng, industry representatives explored the role of data connectivity, cybersecurity and responsible technology adoption in shaping the future of automotive finance.

Speakers from Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, The CEO Circle and JWT Bespoke examined how financial institutions and mobility businesses can use technology to improve decision-making while maintaining customer confidence.

“Better data infrastructure and connectivity can help the industry make more informed financing decisions, but technology must go hand in hand with trust,” Zhang said.

The discussion emphasised that connectivity is not simply about collecting more data. A truly integrated ecosystem requires organisations to establish clear principles for how information is shared, protected and used. Customers must also understand what information they provide and how it contributes to a better service experience.

Matthew Duncan, Director and CEO of JWT Bespoke, highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with consumer protection, drawing from Australia’s experience in automotive and financial regulation.

“Regulation works best when it protects customers and still gives the industry room to improve how people buy and finance their cars,” Duncan said.

Exploring the Future of Vehicle Ownership

Beyond financing and transactions, AIMCONNECT 2026 also examined a broader question facing the mobility industry: how will consumers define vehicle ownership in the future?

The rise of leasing, subscription services, car-sharing and ride-hailing has expanded consumer choices, creating new possibilities beyond traditional ownership models.

During the panel “The Future of Owning a Car,” moderated by Shawn Yang, industry leaders discussed how changing consumer expectations may influence future mobility behaviour.

An audience poll showed a closely divided perspective. While 54% of participants believed flexible mobility solutions could become the preferred choice within the next decade, 46% expected vehicle ownership to remain the dominant preference.

The result reflected the complexity of future mobility trends. Rather than replacing ownership completely, emerging mobility models may provide consumers with more options depending on their lifestyle, financial situation and travel needs.

James Ng, Managing Director of BYD Singapore and President of BYD Philippines, shared insights into BYD’s technology development journey.

“BYD’s first phase was electrification, delivering performance. The second phase is intelligence, using AI to enhance the customer experience. The third phase will focus on integration,” Ng said.

Xiao Ting, CEO of MK.X, noted that increasingly capable AI assistants could change how consumers approach mobility decisions.

“The decision may increasingly be less about owning a car and more about finding the right mobility solution for each journey,” noted the CEO.

Ng also highlighted the broader applications of BYD’s technology beyond vehicles, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and renewable energy solutions that contribute to a wider technology ecosystem.

These developments suggest that the future mobility landscape will involve not only automakers, but also dealers, financial institutions and technology platforms adapting their services to meet changing consumer expectations.

AI Is Expanding the Vehicle Experience Beyond the Point of Sale

The role of artificial intelligence throughout the vehicle ownership lifecycle was another key focus at AIMCONNECT 2026.

During the panel “How Is AI Reshaping Mobility?” moderated by X Star Chief Technology Officer Michael Jia, industry experts discussed how AI can support consumers beyond vehicle selection and purchase.

Panel participants included Carson Zhang of Aimotion, Connor Liu of Google Cloud, Dr Harold Teng of MK.X Technology and Bryan Tan of Carro.

When delegates were asked where AI would create the greatest impact, personalised ownership services ranked ahead of vehicle selection, automotive financing and in-car intelligence. The results suggested that industry participants see significant opportunities in improving the ownership experience after purchase.

Bryan Tan, Chief Scientist at Carro Group and CEO of Carro Indonesia, explained that vehicle value assessment is becoming increasingly influenced by new data sources. For electric vehicles, factors such as battery condition and charging history are becoming important considerations alongside traditional indicators such as mileage.

Tan also noted that markets such as Singapore have unique considerations, including the impact of the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system on vehicle value.

These examples demonstrate how advances in automotive technology are influencing areas beyond driving performance, extending into finance, resale value and long-term ownership decisions.

However, industry leaders agreed that AI adoption must remain focused on practical benefits.

“The focus must remain on delivering practical benefits, enhancing safety and making mobility more intuitive for consumers,” Dr Teng said.

Collaboration Will Define the Next Stage of Mobility Innovation

Across the discussions at AIMCONNECT 2026, one common message emerged: the future of mobility will be shaped by collaboration.

Automotive manufacturers and dealers must better understand customer needs and reduce unnecessary friction throughout the ownership journey. Financial institutions must improve efficiency while maintaining responsible lending practices. Technology providers must develop solutions that meet operational, regulatory and customer expectations.

For policymakers and industry stakeholders, the challenge will be encouraging innovation while maintaining public confidence.

“No single company can transform the entire mobility journey on its own,” Xiao Ting said.

Zhang highlighted that the success of future mobility solutions should be measured not only by speed and efficiency, but also by how effectively the industry works together to serve customers.

“Progress should be measured not only by how quickly a loan can be approved, but by how well the industry works together to serve the customer,” Zhang said.

AIMCONNECT 2026 demonstrated that artificial intelligence will play an increasingly important role in mobility, but technology alone will not define the future. The next phase of automotive transformation will depend on building systems that are intelligent, transparent and connected — supported by stronger partnerships across the mobility ecosystem.

Hashtag: #XStar

Jason will lead DP World Asia Pacific’s portfolio of ports and terminals and logistics businesses across 22 geographies, with more than 12,000 employees. He brings close to three decades of experience with DP World and the then P&O Ports, which he joined in 1997.

Jason has most recently served as Chief Financial Officer of DP World Asia Pacific since 2020, where he played a central role in shaping the region’s strategy, investment agenda and business performance. Before that, he was Chief Financial Officer of DP World Australia for seven years. Across his career, he has overseen mergers and acquisitions, infrastructure projects and business turnaround programmes.

In his new role, Jason will focus on driving regional strategy and operational performance, strengthening end-to-end supply chains and expanding DP World’s integrated logistics capabilities to deliver greater value for customers.

Yuvraj Narayan, Group CEO, DP World, said: “Jason is a highly respected leader with a deep understanding of our business and the markets in which we operate. His track record and commercial acumen make him well placed to lead Asia Pacific, one of our key growth engines. His appointment provides continuity for the business and keeps us firmly focused on our strategic priorities, our customers and our people.”

Jason Varsamidis said: “I’m honoured to lead DP World in Asia Pacific. We have a strong business, talented people and real opportunities across this region. I’ll work closely with our leadership team and colleagues to maintain momentum, deliver for our customers and partners, and keep advancing our strategic priorities.”

DP World Asia Pacific will announce arrangements for the Chief Financial Officer role separately.

http://www.dpworld.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dp-world
https://twitter.com/DP_World

Hashtag: #DPWorld

DP World

The 2026 survey of 19,000 people across 18 countries finds cost and stigma remain significant barriers to professional mental health support, with AI emerging as a way people work around them, particularly among non-natives

“At AXA, we help organisations create workplaces where mental health can be discussed openly, people can recognise when they may need support, and the care they need is easier to find and even easier to access. From mental health awareness training and self-check tools to dedicated services that support employees, our global solutions help employers make mental health a business priority, not just a benefit,” says Alain Zweibrucker, Chief Executive Officer, AXA Health Business and AXA Health International.

Hashtag: #AXA

AXA Global Healthcare

AXA Health International is part of the AXA Health business and specialises in international health and wellbeing solutions. AXA Global Healthcare operates as one of the commercial entities functioning within AXA Health International, providing premium international health insurance to individuals and businesses worldwide and has been protecting the healthcare needs of globally mobile citizens for more than 60 years. Customers are supported in more than 200 countries through a global virtual doctor service, second medical opinion, personal case management, and evacuation and repatriation assistance, with access to AXA’s global medical network of over 2 million healthcare providers. For more information visit axaglobalhealthcare.com.

Strengthening Deepfake Fraud Detection, Unlocking Potential of GenA.I.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – Ping An Digital Bank (International) Limited (“Ping An Digital Bank” / “PingAnDB”) has successfully completed the “Anti-Fraud Strategy Platform” use case as part of the second cohort of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s (“HKMA”) Generative Artificial Intelligence (“GenA.I.”) Sandbox, in partnership with Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited. Through the sandbox, Ping An Digital Bank further strengthened its capabilities in detecting deepfake-related fraud, and explored the potential of an “A.I. vs A.I.” defense strategy, sharpening its fraud detection accuracy and enhancing customer protection.

Mr. Ronald Iu, Chief Executive of Ping An Digital Bank, said, “Ping An Digital Bank is honoured to participate in the HKMA’s second GenA.I. Sandbox cohort. The sandbox serves as an invaluable testing ground for banks to explore financial technology. Throughout the process, we received valuable guidance from the HKMA and shared practical experience with industry peers, advancing the development of anti-fraud efforts across the sector. This project successfully validated GenAI’s potential in deepfake detection, providing deeper insights into how AI identifies forged or synthetic faces across various scenarios. Sandbox testing results demonstrated a detection accuracy of over 96%. We believe the experience gained will help strengthen the industry’s ability to counter deepfake fraud, and build a more robust defence mechanism.”

Developed in partnership with OneConnect Financial Technology, the Anti-Fraud Strategy Platform leverages the proprietary technology of Ping An Group and OneConnect. The project focused on evaluating the platform’s accuracy in detecting deepfake technologies. By integrating cutting-edge A.I. facial recognition into the identity verification process, the platform verifies user selfies in real time to flag suspected forged or manipulated faces. This capability empowers teams to proactively monitor and prevent fraud, elevating the Bank’s overall risk management framework.

Looking ahead, Ping An Digital Bank will continue to leverage the technological edge of Ping An Group, increase its investment in A.I., and deepen the application of A.I. in daily operation, such as risk control and product innovation. The Bank remains dedicated to delivering a seamless, secure, and intuitive banking experience, striving to become the “user-friendly digital bank” in the mind of every customer.

Hashtag: #平安數字銀行 #PingAnDB #生成式AI #GenAI

Ping An Digital Bank

Ping An Digital Bank (International) Limited (“Ping An Digital Bank,” “PingAnDB”) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lufax Holding Ltd (“Lufax”) (SEHK: 6623; NYSE: LU) and a member of Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (“Ping An”) (SEHK: 2318; SSE: 601318). Ping An Digital Bank was granted a banking licence by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority in May 2019 to offer retail banking and business banking services. Backed by Ping An’s advanced technology, Ping An Digital Bank is elevating banking experience, serving customers in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, establishing itself as Ping An Group’s integrated financial platform in Hong Kong.

The fully renovated 360-room property expands Travelodge’s presence in Seoul’s vibrant Gangnam district.

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 — Travelodge Hotels Asia officially opened Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul, its fifth hotel in South Korea with 360 rooms and meeting room with large capacity.

Fully renovated to reflect Travelodge’s refreshed brand look and feel, the hotel is one of the few newly refreshed properties in Gangnam. It offers travelers a comfortable base in the heart of Gangnam, close to COEX and the district’s business, shopping, dining, fashion and cultural destinations.

More than just a place to sleep, Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul is designed around the essentials of a good stay, with well-appointed rooms, comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, a satisfying breakfast and practical spaces to relax and recharge.

Kevin Hayes, a business traveler from California, USA, who stayed for four nights, appreciated the practical amenities and smooth service throughout his stay. He shared, “The check-in process was quick and easy, and the room had everything I needed for a business trip. The fast Wi-Fi made it easy to stay connected and get work done, while the comfortable bed was a welcome bonus after a busy day of meetings.”

Comfort for Every Kind of Traveler

Whether travelling solo, as a couple, with family or in a group, guests can choose from Queen, Twin, Triple, Quadruple and Accessible Rooms.

The hotel offers a spacious co-working lounge, a fitness center, and meeting facilities for up to 60 people. Guests who need to work can use the business center as a casual workspace, while the guest lounge provides space to relax, with a microwave and hydration center available for added convenience.

Breakfast is provided by BON Food Service, an established Korean food-service operator with experience in catering and food-service operations. A GS25 convenience store is also scheduled to open at the hotel by the end of October.

Additional facilities include 43 parking spaces, self-service laundry, currency exchange kiosk, and a 24-hour reliable front desk.

Stay Close to Everything

Located in Yeoksam, Gangnam, Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul offers convenient access to Seoul’s business district, cultural landmarks and shopping destinations.

Just 600 meters away, Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs showcase Korea’s royal history, while Bongeunsa Temple, near COEX, offers a glimpse into traditional Buddhist culture.

Business travelers can reach COEX Convention & Exhibition Center, Starfield Mall and Library within 15 minutes by bus or subway. The Gangnam Station Shopping District offers dining, shopping and nightlife, while Lotte World, around 30 minutes away by subway, provides entertainment for families. For fashion, beauty and café culture, guests can explore Garosu-gil and Apgujeong Rodeo.

“Gangnam has so much to offer, from business and shopping to local culture. We’re excited to welcome guests to Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul, offering a comfortable place to unwind and a stay they can trust while enjoying everything the city has to offer,” said Anthony Yoo, Hotel Manager of Travelodge Gangnam Yeoksam Seoul.

Stay Gold in Gangnam

To celebrate the opening, Stay Gold in Gangnam offers eligible guests booking directly from October 2026 to January 2027 the chance to win a 24K gold bar through the hotel’s Fortune Wheel and enjoy a complimentary Hanbok experience.

Members also enjoy Best Price Guarantee+, up to 5% cashback after their stay, and perks including Early Check-In and Late Check-Out. Sign up for free to unlock these benefits.

The opening marks another milestone in Travelodge Hotels Asia’s regional expansion. Reservations are now open via the official website.

https://travelodgehotels.asia/

Hashtag: #TravelodgeHotelsAsia

About Travelodge Hotels (Asia)

Source: Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi

The Greens’ policy to reverse the Coalition Government’s plans to cut 8700 public service jobs and replace them with AI is a necessary step to rebuilding public services, the PSA says.

The Greens announced the policy at the PSA office in Wellington today.

“The coalition Government has dismantled our public service and dismissed thousands of public servants with no regard for the consequences. These people had more to give New Zealand and their work was important,” said Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons.

“New Zealand will need to invest in stronger public services to meet the challenges of climate change, the housing crisis, infrastructure deficit, an aging population, technological change and global uncertainty.

“In the last few days New Zealand’s 24/7 geohazard monitoring centre has shut down twice because of staff shortages after brutal funding cuts. That’s irresponsible in a country that experiences 20,000 earthquakes a year.

“The slashing of the Ministry of Social Development’s workforce by hundreds of jobs led to 6,270 pensioners missing out on Winter Energy Payments and 14,450 people having their main or supplementary benefits incorrectly cut.

“Without a change of government things will get only worse. Recently Inland Revenue – a core government agency – has said it will have to axe hundreds of jobs as its budget is slashed by 20% in the next three years.

“The Government’s new Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) this week told staff it won’t be able to keep doing the same level of work, as it proposes to cut 400 roles, 25% of its workforce.

“This is the Ministry meant to lead New Zealand’s response to climate change, fix our housing shortage, and plan the roads, rail and infrastructure the country badly needs. This is a Ministry that is likely to need more funding not less.”

“The Government’s cuts have been made with no plan and no thought to the current and future needs of New Zealanders. They have been made to paper over the Government’s financial mismanagement and poor choices a such as handing out hundreds of millions of dollars to tobacco companies and tax cuts for wealthy landlords.

“No country in the world has evidence that AI can replace public sector workers at the scale this Government is betting on.

“Countries like Singapore, which the Government often cites as a role model, use AI to improve public services not to reduce headcount.

“To stop this cycle of damaging restructures, the PSA is calling for a mandatory public good test before government agencies and other publicly funded employers can embark on major restructures and cut jobs,” Fitzsimons says.

“Agencies should have to stop and properly weigh up the impact on services, on workers and on the communities who rely on them, before ploughing ahead with a restructure, not after the damage is done. (See summary of criteria below).

“When restructures are rushed through as this government has done without any real assessment of the impact, it’s the public who ultimately pay the price,” Fitzsimons said.

Background: the proposed public good test

The PSA proposes a statutory requirement for public sector agencies and other publicly funded employers to assess any significant restructure against a public good test before proceeding.

The assessment would need to cover a range of criteria including:

• Impact on the services the agency delivers to the public
• Compliance with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the agency’s ability to meet its obligations to Māori under Te Tiriti
• Impacts on workforce capability, both within the agency and across the public and community sectors
• Health and safety impacts, both physical safety and the impact of workload stress on remaining staff
• Long-term, intergenerational impacts, including impacts on New Zealand’s ability to mitigate and adapt to climate change
• Impacts on population groups at risk of being disadvantaged in their access to public and community services, including women, Māori, Pasefika, migrants, rainbow communities and disabled people
• Consistency with undertakings made by the Government in response to a Royal Commission of Inquiry or Auditor-General recommendations

The PSA says the test should apply to core public service agencies under the Public Service Act 2020 and be extended to local government and publicly funded community services as a condition of public funding.

Related media releases

• New mega-ministry admits it can’t do the same job as it plans to cut 400 roles
• Geohazard centre goes dark again – more proof Govt. is breaking the basics
• MSD errors just the beginning as the impact of cuts is felt
• Enough is enough: public good test needed to stop Govt’s reckless restructures
• Axe hovers over hundreds of IRD workers as agency faces 20% budget cut

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, Health NZ and community groups.

Over more than 60 years, ONYX Hospitality Group has grown from a Thai company with expertise in hotel management into a hospitality management company operating across Asia Pacific. Drawing on its experience and foundations in Thai hospitality, the Group combines this heritage with an international perspective in brand development, hotel management and understanding the needs of travellers in each market, as it works towards its vision: “To be the best medium-sized hospitality management company in Asia-Pacific”.

At the heart of this approach is Thai hospitality, which, for ONYX Hospitality Group, extends beyond a warm welcome to encompass the care and attentiveness needed to truly understand and respond to guests’ needs. This is fundamental to creating positive travel experiences that reflect the diverse needs of travellers across Asia Pacific. The same philosophy is reflected across the Group’s brands — Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence — and developed into distinctive experiences at each property. By naturally bringing together the stories and character of each destination with Thai hospitality and each brand’s identity, every property can create experiences that reflect its local context and the needs of its guests, giving each journey its own stories and lasting impressions.

Receiving an internationally recognised, reader-voted award for the second consecutive year marks further recognition of ONYX Hospitality Group’s service quality and the dedication of its teams in Thailand and overseas. Together, they uphold service standards and create experiences that reflect attention to every detail and a deep understanding of guests. In addition to the Best Local Hotel Brand – Thailand award, properties within the Group have received a range of internationally and nationally recognised accolades, covering guest experiences, the quality of their people, and their work in support of the environment and local communities.

The TTG Travel Awards honour, together with the recognition received by the Group’s properties across various areas, provides further motivation for ONYX Hospitality Group to continue developing its service quality, people and hospitality management expertise. The Group also continues to build collaborations with partners in each market to strengthen its business and further develop its expertise in Thai hospitality alongside the long-term growth of its operations across Asia Pacific.

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup

Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How to attend as Guest-of-Honour at the 12 November summit, which will bring together leaders from across public relations, journalism, business and technology

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 — The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) has announced the keynote speakers for the Media OutReach Newswire PRISM Summit 2026, taking place on 12 November at METT Singapore. Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, and National Development, will attend as Guest-of-Honour.

Held under the theme “From Message to Mandate”, the Summit will examine how communications professionals can move beyond message delivery to influence organisational decisions, safeguard reputation and build stakeholder trust in an environment increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, fragmented media and heightened scrutiny.

The programme brings together perspectives from newsrooms, corporate leadership, technology and the communications industry to address a central question: how can communications leaders maintain credibility and demonstrate their strategic value when the information landscape is changing faster than ever?

Notable keynote speakers include Rosianna Silalahi, President Director of KompasTV, whose session, “Holding the Line: What Newsrooms Need from Communicators”, will draw on the Indonesian broadcaster’s experience navigating demonstrations, external pressure and the growing challenges of verifying information. Her contribution will examine the responsibilities journalists and communicators share in protecting information integrity, maintaining editorial independence, and establishing accountability for AI-generated content.

The relationship between media credibility and organisational reputation will also feature in the keynote by Glenda Gloria, Co-Founder and Executive Editor of Rappler, who will deliver “Keepers of the Record”, reflecting on journalism’s role in an era of disinformation and declining trust, and what the changing media landscape means for communications professionals.

Beyond the newsroom, the Summit will consider how communications can deliver greater strategic value to organisations. Terence Lyons, Founder and CEO of TSC.ai, will examine how stakeholder intelligence can help organisations anticipate emerging issues and understand influence, while Wendy Wang, Founder of getUGC.io, will explore the evolving relationship between creators, communities and brand trust.

Another focus will be the growing influence of artificial intelligence on how organisations are discovered and understood. Shaad Hamid, General Manager, Singapore at GrowthOps Asia, will examine the relationship between earned media and AI visibility, while Emma Dale, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Prospect Resourcing, will consider the human judgement, trust and leadership that remain essential as AI becomes more embedded in communications work.

Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire, will deliver the Title Sponsor Keynote, “The Golden Age of PR: Why an AI-Enabled Global Newswire Matters More Than Ever”, exploring the role of earned media and newswire distribution in building brand trust and visibility in an AI-driven environment.

The programme will culminate in the unveiling of findings from the inaugural Singapore State of PR and Communications Survey, jointly conducted by Media OutReach Newswire and IPRS. The research will offer insights into how communications practitioners view changing PR dynamics, the evolving media landscape, AI visibility, and their use of AI tools in daily workflows.

Other speakers include Liu Xiaowei, Co-Founder of Retension; Nicholas Leong, Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific at DHL; Raju Chellam, Editor-in-Chief of the AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge; Emily Poon, CEO of the Singapore Institute of Directors; Shefali Srinivas, Head of Business Communications, APAC at Meta; Esther An, Chief Sustainability Officer at City Developments Limited; and Brian Fletcher, Director, Public Policy APJ at CrowdStrike.

PRISM Summit 2026 is supported by Title Sponsor Media OutReach Newswire, Coffee & Silver Sponsor Notified, Silver Sponsors Isentia and Truescope, Official PR Agency Pinpoint and Venue Partner METT Singapore.

Supporting Partners include Edge Digital, the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), World Communication Forum Association (WCFA), Davos Communications Summit & Awards, Asia Pacific PR Network (APRN), Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) and Singapore Press Club (SPC). Media Partners include Humas Indonesia and PR Indonesia.

Full speaker line-up
The PRISM Summit 2026 speaker line-up comprises:

• Anita Kapoor – Host
• Ross Gan — President, IPRS; Chief Communications Officer, Bitdeer Technologies
• Jennifer Kok — Founder & CEO, Media OutReach Newswire
• Raju Chellam — Editor-in-Chief, AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge
• Illka Gobius — Founder & Managing Director, Pinpoint PR
• Kathy O’Brien — Managing Director, Red Shoe Communications
• Lee Nugent — Head of Communications, Asia-Pacific & Japan, Everpure
• Emily Poon — CEO, Singapore Institute of Directors
• Liu Xiaowei — Co-Founder, Retension
• Terence Lyons — Founder & CEO, TSC.ai
• Brian Fletcher — Director, Public Policy APJ, CrowdStrike
• Naeema Ismail — Founder, The Reset Practice
• Shefali Srinivas — Head of Business Communications, APAC, Meta
• Glenda Gloria — Co-Founder & Executive Editor, Rappler
• Rosianna Silalahi — Editor-in-Chief, KompasTV
• Glenn van Zutphen — Founder & CEO, VanMedia Group
• Wendy Wang — Founder, getUGC.io
• Prashant Saxena — VP of Revenue & Insights, Southeast Asia, iSentia
• Collin Tio — Associate Director, KOBE
• Angel Turner — Senior Manager, Brand Marketing, World Scout Bureau
• Shaad Hamid — General Manager, Singapore, GrowthOps Asia
• Cheryl Heng — Associate Editor, Citywire Asia
• Voal Voal Wong — Managing Partner, IN.FOM
• Melissa Ang — Strategic Account Director, Notified
• Pamela Phua — Managing Partner, Southeast Asia, Media OutReach Newswire
• Kelvin Koh — Managing Director, Truescope Singapore
• Nicholas Leong — Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific, DHL
• Emma Dale — Co-Founder & Managing Director, Prospect Resourcing
• Esther An — Chief Sustainability Officer, City Developments Limited
• Cindy Lim — PRISM Summit 2026 Chair; Head of Audience & Communications, Singapore Symphony Group

Registration is open, with special rates available to IPRS members and partners.

For more information and registration, visit the Summit website.

https://iprs.glueup.com/event/media-outreach-newswire-prism-summit-2026-185060/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-of-public-relations-of-singapore/p

Hashtag: #PRISM2026 #IPRS #FromMessageToMandate #PublicRelations #StrategicCommunications

About the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore

The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore represents public relations and communications practitioners in Singapore and promotes professional standards, continuing development and the advancement of the profession.

Under the program, dealer partners that open new VinFast electric motorcycle showrooms in the Philippines and Indonesia by December 31, 2026, will receive basic support of up to US$40,000 per location, depending on the showroom’s size, floor area, and dealership standards. Showrooms that open by October 31, 2026, will qualify for an additional incentive of up to US$5,000 per location. Finally, partners that open three or more stores will also receive an additional incentive of up to US$15,000 per location.

The program is designed not only to create new business opportunities for dealer partners, but also to encourage more consumers to switch to greener transportation and help protect the environment. Through this initiative, VinFast continues to advance its goal of accelerating the shift toward greener, cleaner, and quieter mobility.

VinFast is committed to providing dealer partners with comprehensive support, from business consulting and marketing strategies to professional training, helping them get their operations up and running quickly. This support will also ensure that dealerships across the network follow VinFast’s standards for brand identity, showroom design, operating procedures, and customer service.

By joining the VinFast network, partners will have the opportunity to offer high-quality battery-swapping electric motorcycles that are safe, reliable, environmentally friendly, and suited to a wide range of customer needs, initially including the Evo, Feliz II, and Viper. Partners can also benefit from VinFast’s supporting infrastructure, including its continuously expanding service and warranty facilities, as well as support policies for service workshops. This will provide a solid foundation for dealer partners to confidently deploy services, enhance the customer experience, and strengthen the competitiveness of their products in the market.

Ms. Vo Thi Cam Tu, Managing Director of VinFast E-scooter Overseas Markets, said: “Expanding our dealer network is an important part of VinFast’s strategy to build an electric motorcycle ecosystem in international markets. We are looking to partner with businesses that share our long-term vision for green mobility, while giving dealers the support they need to make the most of their strengths within the VinFast network. From developing showrooms to running day-to-day operations and serving customers, VinFast will continue to work closely with our partners to build a stronger electric motorcycle network.”

The expansion of the electric motorcycle dealer network is part of VinFast’s broader plan to expand its distribution network in the Philippines and Indonesia, with the company targeting hundreds of stores in the two markets, respectively, by the end of 2026. As of September 2026, VinFast has 63 electric motorcycle dealerships operating in Indonesia and the Philippines. Going forward, VinFast will continue to expand its presence and bring its electric vehicle products and services closer to consumers across Southeast Asia, supporting the region’s transition to greener, smarter, and more modern mobility./.

Hashtag: #VinFast