Source: Eco-Business

Bankable projects with clear ROI metrics vital to plug Malaysia’s RM130 billion adaptation deficit

Kuala Lumpur, 24 July: Climate finance will need to shift towards strengthening market capacity and commercial viability to help Malaysia meet its urgent adaptation needs but is strained by a lack of bankable projects, clear metrics and project fragmentation, said regional leaders at the flagship www.eco-business.com/events/unlocking-capital-for-sustainability-2026-malaysia/” style=”color:#1155cc;text-decoration:underline;”>Unlocking capital for sustainability summit in Malaysia yesterday.

Malaysia requires approximately US$32.56 billion (RM133 billion) in disaster risk reduction and resilience in the coming decades to cope with mounting risks such as floods, droughts, coastal degradation and nature loss.

Edward Vrkić, resident representative for UNDP Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam, said there is a “mismatch between what investors are looking for and how climate projects are currently structured.”

“Nature and climate adaptation is competing for capital against a mitigation story that sells better. Regulatory drivers, ESG pressure and familiar deal structures channel private capital into renewables and electric vehicles, leaving adaptation largely public-led. At the same time, Malaysia’s National Adaptation Plan (MyNAP) remains under development, so financing lacks a unifying framework and a prioritised project list,” he said during his keynote address.

Aligning climate, economic and business realities

H.E. Ajay Sharma, British high commissioner to Malaysia, said in his special address: “One of the roles of international financiers is to address the risks preventing private capital from flowing into viable opportunities. That is why our international climate finance is now more focused on helping markets to work better, strengthening project bankability – especially among SMEs, and helping private capital flow at scale and to the right places.”

“This includes programmes such as the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) to help countries’ transition to a low carbon economy, the Climate Finance Accelerator to support climate enterprises become investment ready and mobilising investments through vehicles such as British International Investment and MOBILIST.”

Meanwhile, companies that treat projects such as decarbonisation as a compliance obligation frequently fall behind, missing out on new and lucrative opportunities, Kati Ferry, chief executive officer for EUROCHAM Malaysia, said.

“The companies that treated it as an engineering, investment and market opportunity began developing cleaner technologies, reducing energy use, redesigning manufacturing processes and creating new products and services. Those are often the companies now winning new contracts, attracting talent, improving efficiency and preparing themselves for the markets of the future,” she said in her closing address.

This includes the TechnipFMC facility in Johor which, though lacking a major upfront investment, became feasible due to a financing model which matched the operational needs of the customer, she said.

“The capital was available. The technology was available. What unlocked the project was the right commercial agreement.”

Asia setting the pace for the transition

Organised by Eco-Business in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), alongside strategic partner, AmBank Group, and supporting partners, Control Union Malaysia, Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and TOMRA, the 2026 edition of Unlocking capital for sustainability – Malaysia convened over 230 delegates from government, finance and industry under the theme of “Financing growth for a resilient economy”.

Jessica Cheam, founder and CEO for Eco-Business, said Asia is proving to be a region where sustainable finance is built and not just discussed, with Malaysia itself writing the rules in this space before the investments arrive.

“It has been so encouraging to see that Malaysia has built on the momentum of the Asean chairmanship last year and moved from rhetoric to regulation. The Securities Commission’s Capital Market Masterplan 2026-2030 now targets RM90 billion to RM100 billion in cumulative sustainability financing by the end of the decade,” she said in her opening remarks.

“Alongside it, a National Carbon Market Policy has laid the groundwork for a national carbon credit ecosystem, ahead of a carbon tax on iron, steel and energy that government has, for now, chosen to delay given the economic headwinds.”

Fostering connections through tailored, impact-driven sessions

The sustainable finance forum also featured curated dialogues on nature and biodiversity’s role in shaping finance and business strategy, led by PwC Malaysia and AmBank Group; financing Malaysia’s Transitioning Industrial Clusters, led by MyDIGITAL Corporation and PEMANDU Associates and attended by Datuk Dr Haji Hazland Haji Abang Hipni, deputy minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak; helping Malaysian SMEs turn climate risks into business opportunities, led by Funding Societies Malaysia and Generali Insurance Malaysia;

and financing the shift from a linear to a circular economy, featuring supporting partner TOMRA.

It also hosted an exclusive roundtable the next day on the topic of www.eco-business.com/events/making-circularity-work-aligning-policy-markets-and-stakeholders/” style=”color:#1155cc;text-decoration:underline;”>”Making circularity work: Aligning policy, markets and stakeholders”, featuring the participation of the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) and exploring how policy, capital and disclosure frameworks can align for circular economy adoption.

Unlocking capital for sustainability is hosted in six markets across Asia in 2026. In addition to Kuala Lumpur, the flagship forum was hosted in Jakarta in June and will be hosted Manila in August, Singapore and Bangkok in September and Hong Kong in November.

For more information on next month’s Philippines’ forum, visit the www.eco-business.com/events/unlocking-capital-for-sustainability-2026-philippines/” style=”color:#1155cc;text-decoration:underline;”>Eco-Business event page.

About Eco-Business

Established in 2009, Eco-Business is Asia Pacific’s leading business intelligence and advisory platform dedicated to advancing sustainable development. We produce trusted, high-quality multimedia content exploring the world’s most pressing challenges—and the solutions driving change. Our work is aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Goals (SDGs) and supported by a 15-year archive of news, analysis, research, and events on sustainable development topics. Headquartered in Singapore, we have a presence in Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Beijing, and London.

For more information, visit www.eco-business.com.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.

Learn more at www.undp.org and www.undp.org/malaysia” style=”color:#1155cc;text-decoration:underline;”>www.undp.org/malaysia.

About Unlocking capital for sustainability

Unlocking capital for sustainability is an annual flagship event organised by Eco-Business in partnership with UNEP FI that brings together high-level decision makers in finance, business, government and civic society to discuss and commit to actionable initiatives that mobilise the capital markets for sustainable development projects. Our full list of knowledge partners – past and present – can be found at www.unlockingcapitalforsustainability.com.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 July 2026 – As Singapore commits more than S$1 billion to artificial intelligence research and talent development from 2025 to 2030, homegrown loyalty platform STAMPEDE is helping smaller F&B businesses to benefit from AI without requiring owners to learn complex tools or hire dedicated marketing teams.

STAMPEDE has created more than 11,000 free, claimable business pages for F&B establishments across Singapore. The pages give hawkers, cafés, restaurants and small chains a digital starting point where customers can find key business information, including location, ratings and outlet details.

Owners can claim or create their page for free, set up a digital loyalty programme and review the system before deciding whether to activate a paid plan.

The initiative comes as Singapore’s F&B sector faces continued pressure. Between 1 January and 23 October 2025, 2,431 retail food establishments closed. Of these, 63% had been registered for five years or less, while 82% of that group had never recorded a profit in their annual tax declarations.

Against this backdrop, STAMPEDE is focusing on an area that operators can influence directly: whether customers return, redeem rewards and recommend the business to others.

“Singapore is investing heavily in AI, and that’s a real opportunity, but a hawker or café owner shouldn’t need to become an AI expert to benefit from it,” said Wilson Komala, Founder of STAMPEDE.

“At the end of the day, F&B owners just want customers coming back and bringing their friends. The technology should work quietly in the background, turning everyday customer activity into simple actions and not another dashboard to check or skill for the owners to learn,” Wilson added.

Customers join a participating outlet’s loyalty programme by scanning a QR code through their phone browser, without downloading an application. Staff can issue stamps using an ordinary phone camera, with no additional hardware required.

The platform combines digital stamp cards, referral rewards, coupons, customer data, automated communications and weekly AI reports that explain customer activity in plain language.

Early results from three Singapore F&B brands show how this can translate into measurable customer activity. In under four months, OMMA Chicken Soup, CHA MULAN and LICKERS collectively gained more than 14,000 loyalty members, generated over 1,300 completed referrals and recorded more than 10,700 coupon redemptions across 19 outlets.

OMMA Chicken Soup recorded more than 5,500 loyalty members and over 300 completed referrals across five outlets, while CHA MULAN gained more than 7,000 members and generated over 800 referrals across nine outlets. Their coupon redemption rates reached approximately 50% and 55% respectively.

“The strongest sign for us is that customers are not only joining the programmes, but they are now returning, redeeming rewards and recommending the brands to others,” said Josiah Tan, Founder of OMMA Chicken Soup and Co-founder of CHA MULAN.

Neighbourhood ice cream brand LICKERS gained more than 1,600 loyalty members and over 200 completed referrals across five outlets. It also recorded a 33% returning-customer rate, the highest among STAMPEDE’s clients.

“LICKERS has always grown through its regulars, so the returning-customer rate is particularly meaningful,” said Felix Tan, Founder of LICKERS. “It gives us clearer proof that customers are coming back and introducing the brand to others.”

Businesses can claim or create their STAMPEDE page and complete the initial setup for free. Payment begins only when the programme is activated, with its Growth plan priced at S$50 per outlet per month.

https://stampede.sg/

Hashtag: #singapore #f&b #food #customerloyalty #loyalty

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

Source: Global Financial Services

Source: Sustainable Business Council

Source: Climate Change Commission

KUNMING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – On July 20, 2026, Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International have officially entered into a strategic partnership to jointly develop an Integrated Trade and Logistics Service Platform, marking an important step toward enhancing cross-border trade services and supporting Yunnan’s development as China’s gateway to South and Southeast Asia.

The signing ceremony, themed “Integrated Trade and Logistics, Connecting the World,” was held at the Conference Hall on the second floor of the Central Lake Building of New Luosiwan Commercial Group.

Officials from the Yunnan Provincial Department of Commerce, the Yunnan Provincial Postal Administration, the Kunming Municipal Bureau of Commerce, the Kunming Port and Logistics Office, the Guandu District People’s Government, and other relevant government agencies attended the event. Also present were Mao Zhenwei, Head of the International Business Group of SF Express Group; Li Jun, Founder of Junfa Group; Li Zhenting, Executive Vice President of Junfa Group; as well as representatives of the New Luosiwan Chamber of Commerce and members of the media, who witnessed the signing of the strategic cooperation agreement.

Through the partnership, the two companies will leverage their respective strengths in commercial resources, logistics networks, supply chain services, and digital capabilities to jointly build an integrated trade and logistics service platform. The platform will support merchants in expanding into international markets while extending services to local communities, creating a new commercial ecosystem that integrates domestic and international trade.

Building an Integrated Service Platform to Empower Global Business Expansion

At the ceremony, Shi Fei, Deputy District Governor and Member of the Leading Party Members Group of the Guandu District People’s Government, highlighted the significance of the partnership, describing it as an important example of collaboration between a major commercial marketplace and a global logistics leader. He noted that the cooperation will contribute to the high-quality development of Guandu District’s commercial sector.

Shi said the Guandu District Government will continue providing proactive support and efficient public services to facilitate platform development, industrial growth, market operations, and enterprise development.

Mao Zhenwei, Head of the International Business Group of SF Express Group, said that SF International will leverage its global logistics infrastructure, including 69 international air routes, customs clearance resources across 94 international gateways, freight forwarding and supply chain services covering 95 countries and regions, and an overseas warehouse network totaling 2.55 million square meters, to provide Junfa–New Luosiwan merchants with integrated supply chain solutions.

These services will cover domestic pickup, international transportation, customs clearance, overseas warehousing, and international delivery, helping merchants reduce logistics costs, improve cross-border circulation efficiency, and accelerate global market expansion.

Li Zhenting, Executive Vice President of Junfa Group, said that Yunnan is continuously advancing its role as China’s gateway to South and Southeast Asia, while the China–Laos Railway continues to strengthen regional connectivity and trade cooperation.

As Junfa–New Luosiwan accelerates its transformation from a traditional commercial marketplace into a comprehensive trade service platform, the partnership with SF International will further enhance its cross-border service capabilities and provide merchants with more efficient and convenient one-stop solutions for expanding into international markets.

Developing a Comprehensive Platform Through a Phased Strategy

Witnessed by government officials, business representatives, and industry partners, Junfa–New Luosiwan and SF International officially signed their strategic cooperation agreement.

Centered on merchants’ cross-border business needs, the two parties will adopt a phased implementation approach to continuously enhance the platform’s supply chain service capabilities.

Phase One: Building a Digital Logistics Service Platform

The first phase will focus on establishing a digital logistics service platform featuring online quotations, intelligent rate comparison, transportation capacity matching, real-time shipment visibility, and unified cargo insurance services.

The platform will improve logistics resource allocation, enhance shipping efficiency, increase supply chain transparency, and gradually develop return cargo matching capabilities to improve logistics resource utilization.

Through digital solutions, merchants will gain access to more efficient logistics coordination, greater shipment visibility, and optimized cross-border transportation services.

Phase Two: Creating an End-to-End Cross-Border Trade Service Platform

The second phase will further integrate key services, including product trading, customs declaration and inspection, cross-border payments, overseas warehousing, and international fulfillment.

By building a comprehensive platform covering the entire cross-border trade process, Junfa–New Luosiwan will provide merchants with more convenient and efficient one-stop services, enabling businesses to connect with global markets more effectively through digital solutions.

The platform will help merchants enhance their international operational capabilities and strengthen their competitiveness in global markets.

Expanding Platform Services to Local Communities

While continuing to strengthen cross-border trade services, the platform will further expand into local consumer markets.

During the event, Junfa Qicai Services Group and SF Yunnan signed a separate cooperation agreement.

Having operated in Yunnan for 28 years, Junfa has established an extensive community ecosystem covering more than 100 residential communities. By leveraging Qicai Services’ community resources and SF’s efficient delivery network, the two companies will jointly improve last-mile delivery capabilities and explore a new service model that delivers quality products directly from suppliers to communities.

The initiative will provide merchants with more stable local sales channels while offering residents more convenient and efficient consumption experiences, further enriching the platform’s service ecosystem.

Building a Sustainable Platform Ecosystem to Support Yunnan’s Opening-Up

The strategic cooperation represents an important practice for Junfa–New Luosiwan in improving its modern commercial service system, while also reflecting SF International’s continued commitment to developing cross-border supply chain services in Yunnan.

Moving forward, the two parties will continue deepening cooperation by enhancing the Integrated Trade and Logistics Service Platform, strengthening cross-border trade service capabilities, expanding merchandise circulation channels, and promoting deeper integration of commercial flows, logistics flows, and information flows.

By leveraging Yunnan’s strategic geographic advantages and actively integrating into China’s Dual Circulation development strategy, the partnership will promote two-way connectivity between domestic and international markets, supporting both global expansion and international business cooperation.

The collaboration will further enhance merchants’ ability to access domestic and overseas markets, contribute to Yunnan’s development as China’s gateway to South and Southeast Asia, and support the establishment of a modern commercial circulation system.

Hashtag: #JunfaNewLuosiwan

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

BATAM, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin), an operating company of PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (Telkom), together with BW Digital and the support of Nongsa Digital Park (NDP) as one of strategic partners, today marked a significant milestone in the development of Indonesia’s international digital infrastructure with the successful landing of the Nongsa Changi Cable (NCC) at NDP, Batam.

The NCC cable landing ceremony was also attended by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia Airlangga Hartarto, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Trade and Industry of The Republic of Singapore Gan Kim Yong, Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore Hotmangaraja Panjaitan, Managing Director Business-2 of Danantara Indonesia Setyanto Hantoro, Deputy Governor Of Batam Nyanyang Haris Pratamura, as well as members of the Boards of Directors of Telkom, Telin, BW Digital, and Nongsa Digital Park.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia Airlangga Hartarto stated, “Indonesia’s digital transformation needs to be supported by robust physical infrastructure and increasingly strong connectivity. NCC serves as the physical foundation for a new digital corridor connecting Indonesia and Singapore, while further strengthening Batam’s position as Indonesia’s digital gateway. The presence of NCC is expected to reinforce the strategic position of both countries in the global digital ecosystem and value chain, while creating opportunities for greater investment, innovation, and new technology-driven economic activities.”

The Cable Landing Ceremony celebrates the successful deployment of NCC, a strategic subsea cable system that connects Batam and Singapore through one of the shortest and most direct routes across the Singapore Strait. NCC is one of two new Batam–Singapore subsea cable systems developed by Telkom Group, alongside the Indonesia Singapore Cable System (INSICA), to further strengthen digital connectivity between Indonesia and Singapore. As a key segment of the Indonesia Cable Express (ICE) ecosystem, NCC strengthens international connectivity while supporting Indonesia’s ambition to become a leading digital hub in Southeast Asia.

“Strategic investments such as the NCC are fundamental, as strengthening digital sovereignty and infrastructure can serve as a catalyst for innovation, competitiveness, and growth across various industries. This infrastructure is expected to generate a broader economic multiplier effect by driving the growth of industries in Batam and across Indonesia, ultimately contributing to stronger national economic growth and resilience,” said Setyanto Hantoro, Managing Director Business-2 of Danantara Indonesia, during the press conference.

Spanning approximately 50 kilometers and equipped with 24 fiber pairs, NCC is designed to deliver high-capacity, low-latency connectivity to meet the rapidly growing demand for cloud services, hyperscale platforms, artificial intelligence (AI), and data center interconnection across the region. Landed successfully in the latest international cable touch point in Batam, NCC represents a critical milestone toward the system’s operational readiness and reinforces the shared commitment of Government of Indonesia to ensure the development of world-class digital infrastructure in Indonesia.

Beyond enhancing regional connectivity, NCC is expected to accelerate Indonesia’s digital economy by attracting investment in digital infrastructure, supporting the expansion of AI-ready data centers, enabling enterprise digital transformation, and strengthening the resilience and diversity of international network routes between Indonesia and Singapore. The project also reinforces Batam’s position as Indonesia’s strategic digital gateway, creating new opportunities for innovation, business growth, and high-value digital investments.

Dian Siswarini, President Director of Telkom Indonesia, added, “Through the continued development of sustainable digital infrastructure, TelkomGroup is committed to strengthening Indonesia’s digital sovereignty while delivering tangible impact on the growth of the national digital economy. NCC represents a strategic collaboration between Indonesia and Singapore in building a more connected and competitive digital ecosystem. This strategic infrastructure not only strengthens Indonesia’s digital connectivity and resilience, but also provides greater route diversity and enhanced connectivity for Singapore as a regional digital hub, creating mutual benefits for both countries,” Dian concluded.”

Budi Satria Dharma Purba, Director of Wholesale & International Service of Telkom Indonesia, said, “NCC establishes a new digital corridor between Indonesia and Singapore as part of the Indonesia Cable Express ecosystem. Together with future ICE developments, it will strengthen international connectivity, support AI-ready digital infrastructure, and provide greater network resilience for enterprises, hyperscalers, and digital businesses across the region.”

Ludovic Hutier, Chief Executive Officer of BW Digital, stated, “The successful landing of NCC demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships in delivering critical digital infrastructure for Southeast Asia. Together with Telin, we are creating a future-ready connectivity platform that supports the region’s accelerating demand for cloud, AI, and data center services. NCC is also a critical component of BW Digital’s broader digital ecosystem, which includes Citra Connect’s terrestrial fibre network and NDP1 144MW data centre campus in Batam, providing the end-to-end infrastructure our customers need to support their regional expansion.”

Mike Wiluan, Chief Executive Officer at Nongsa Digital Park, added “Today’s cable landing is more than the completion of digital infrastructure, it represents the strengthening of an ecosystem. At Nongsa Digital Park, we are bringing together connectivity, data centers, cloud platforms, AI innovation, digital talent, and global enterprises into one integrated hub. Through our collaboration with TelkomGroup, BW Digital, and the support of both the Indonesian and Singaporean governments, we are creating a gateway that connects Indonesia to Singapore and beyond. Together, we are building the digital bridge that enables Indonesia to play a greater role in the global digital economy. NDP is now officially a new destination point for domestic and international subsea fibre optic cables, and we look forward to welcoming more in the near future.”

As part of the broader Indonesia Cable Express (ICE) initiative, NCC complements TelkomGroup’s long-term strategy to expand international connectivity infrastructure and strengthen Indonesia’s role within the regional digital ecosystem. By combining resilient international networks with the continued growth of digital infrastructure in Batam, the project is expected to support the expansion of cloud services, digital platforms, and emerging technologies that will shape Southeast Asia’s digital future.

The successful cable landing marks another important milestone in realizing a more connected, resilient, and future-ready digital landscape, reaffirming TelkomGroup’s commitment to powering digital growth across the region.

https://www.telin.net/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/telkom-international/posts/?feedView=all
https://www.instagram.com/telin_official/

Hashtag: #Telin #NCCLandingCeremony #DigitalInfrastructure #SubmarineCable #Connectivity #Telecommunications #DigitalTransformation

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

Source: PSA

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 July 2026 – As Malaysians increasingly embrace grab-and-go lifestyles and quality coffee on the move, 7-Eleven Malaysia today marked a major milestone with the opening of its 1,000th CAFé by 7-Eleven outlet at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1, reinforcing its commitment to making quality food and beverages more accessible wherever customers are.

Located at Level 5, next to the Domestic Departure Gate at KLIA Terminal 1, the milestone café places freshly brewed coffee, hot meals and ready-to-eat favourites within easy reach of one of Malaysia’s busiest transport hubs. KLIA Terminal 1 serves approximately 28 to 30 million passengers annually, with around 13,000 to 14,000 departing and arriving travellers each day. During peak operating hours, the terminal can accommodate nearly 6,800 passengers per hour, while festive travel periods see passenger volumes surge significantly.

More than just another store opening, the milestone reflects how CAFé by 7-Eleven has evolved into an integral part of Malaysians’ daily routines, serving everyone from busy professionals grabbing their morning coffee to students on the go, families travelling home, and holidaymakers beginning their next adventure.

With more Malaysians seeking convenient, quality food and coffee throughout the day, CAFé by 7-Eleven has steadily expanded to meet evolving consumer lifestyles. The opening of its 1,000th outlet at KLIA marks another milestone in bringing that convenience to one of Malaysia’s busiest travel gateways.

The choice of KLIA for this milestone reflects 7-Eleven Malaysia’s strategy of expanding into high-traffic locations where convenience matters most. As consumer lifestyles become increasingly mobile, transport hubs have become key destinations for quick, quality food and beverage solutions, allowing CAFé by 7-Eleven to better serve travellers at every stage of their journey.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Wong Wai Keong, Co-CEO of 7-Eleven Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., said the opening of the company’s 1,000th CAFé by 7-Eleven represents more than a numerical milestone. It reflects how consumer expectations and lifestyles have evolved over the years.

“Today’s customers expect quality coffee, fresh meals and convenience wherever they are, whether they’re heading to work, commuting across town or catching a flight. Over the years, we’ve transformed CAFé by 7-Eleven into a destination that fits naturally into those everyday moments. Convenience today is no longer just about being nearby. It’s about being exactly where customers need us most, whether that’s in neighbourhoods, commercial districts or one of the country’s busiest airports.”

“There is no better place to celebrate this milestone than KLIA, one of Malaysia’s busiest travel gateways. Millions of passengers pass through the airport every year, making it the ideal location for us to demonstrate how convenience retail can better serve today’s increasingly mobile consumers. Whether they’re catching an early morning flight, returning home or travelling for business, we want CAFé by 7-Eleven to be part of that journey.”

As one of Malaysia’s largest convenience retailers, 7-Eleven continues to evolve beyond traditional retail by expanding CAFé by 7-Eleven across neighbourhoods, commercial districts, hospitals, transport hubs and major travel gateways. Offering an expanding range of food, beverages and ready-to-enjoy meal options, the growing network reflects the company’s commitment to making quality food and beverages more accessible wherever customers need them.

The KLIA outlet represents another step in that strategy, enhancing the travel experience by ensuring customers can conveniently enjoy fresh food and beverages before departure without compromising on quality or speed.

Today, with more than 2,700 stores nationwide and 1,000 CAFé by 7-Eleven outlets, the company continues to strengthen its position as Malaysia’s leading convenience retailer by adapting to evolving consumer expectations through innovation, accessibility and everyday convenience.

As Malaysians continue to embrace increasingly mobile lifestyles and seek greater convenience in their daily routines, 7-Eleven Malaysia remains committed to expanding CAFé by 7-Eleven into locations where quality food and beverages are needed most. Guided by its promise of “Always There For You”, the company will continue bringing greater convenience to customers wherever life takes them.

Hashtag: #7eleven

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

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 July 2026 – Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026 is an annual international exhibition integrating two major sectors: Food & Beverage and Processing Equipment & Technology, Packaging – held continuously in Vietnam since 1996. The exhibition will take place over three days, from August 6-8, 2026, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), organised by VINEXAD in cooperation with the Ho Chi Minh City Food & Foodstuff Association (FFA) and the Vietnam Beer – Alcohol – Beverage Association (VBA), continuing to affirm its role as one of the leading and most trusted trade promotion events for Vietnam’s Food and Beverage (F&B) industry.

Beyond bringing together advanced products, technologies and solutions, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 continues to serve as an important trade promotion platform, helping connect businesses, expand supply chains and drive sustainable growth for Vietnam’s food and beverage industry during this period of deep international integration.

F&B industry undergoing a strong transformation amid new trends

The food and beverage industry is entering a new phase of development as consumer demand moves beyond product quality alone toward more comprehensive values such as nutrition, health, sustainability and brand experience.

Alongside the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, e-commerce and ESG standards, F&B businesses are ramping up investment in modern production technology, automated production lines, eco-friendly packaging, traceability and supply chain optimisation to strengthen their competitiveness in the international market.

In addition, new-generation free trade agreements continue to open up export opportunities for Vietnam’s food industry, while also attracting international brands seeking to expand into a market of nearly 100 million people with growing purchasing power.

Against this backdrop, the need for trade connections, technology updates and strategic partnerships is becoming increasingly urgent, making specialised exhibitions one of the most effective trade promotion channels for businesses.

Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026: a comprehensive networking platform for the F&B industry

Building on the success of previous editions, Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026 continues to affirm its position as one of Vietnam’s largest international exhibitions for the Food & Beverage, Food Processing Technology and Packaging industries, and is also the first exhibition in this industry in Vietnam to be certified under the standards of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) – a guarantee of the event’s quality, scale and international standing.

Notably, 2026 marks the 30th edition of the exhibition held in Ho Chi Minh City, affirming its journey of sustainable development and its pioneering role over three decades of connecting the domestic and international F&B business community. This year’s exhibition reaches an impressive scale with more than 1,400 booths from over 1,000 companies across 20+ countries and territories, and is expected to attract more than 40,000 visitors, further confirming the event’s outstanding appeal and influence within the industry.

Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 brings together every link in the food and beverage value chain, from raw materials, production and processing to packaging, logistics, and distribution and retail systems. Within the exhibition space, thousands of products, technologies, and advanced solutions will be showcased, covering the entire F&B ecosystem – from processed foods, premium foods, beverages, coffee and tea, confectionery, seafood and meat products, to food ingredients and additives, as well as processing machinery and equipment, packaging technology and modern technology solutions. This is an opportunity for businesses to find partners, keep up with market trends, access new technology and expand their domestic and international business networks.

More than a venue for launching new products, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam also serves as a forum for businesses to grasp consumer trends, find partners, expand distribution systems and access solutions that enhance competitiveness in an ever-changing market.

For international businesses, the exhibition is an effective gateway into the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian markets. Meanwhile, domestic businesses have the opportunity to access new technology, find suppliers, expand exports, and participate more deeply in the global value chain.

Adding value – bringing together thousands of domestic and international businesses

Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 brings together thousands of domestic and international brands from more than 20 countries and territories, including China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand and Vietnam.

At the event, the Diamond Sponsor – Masan Group Corporation (‘Masan Group, HOSE: MSN’) – will showcase its portfolio of leading brands, including CHIN-SU, Omachi, Vinacafé, Nam Ngư and WinEco, reaffirming its leadership in Vietnam’s branded food and beverage industry as well as high-tech agriculture. Guided by a consumer-centric strategy, Masan is committed to creating products that enrich the everyday lives of Vietnamese consumers while advancing the company’s vision to ‘Make Vietnamese Foods Global Foods’. At this year’s event, Vinacafé will introduce its premium Fine Robusta collection, crafted from specialty Robusta beans cultivated at altitudes above 1,000 metres. Naturally fermented and slow-dried for up to 720 hours, Fine Robusta delivers a refined coffee experience with rich, multi-layered flavour profiles and versatile brewing options.

The Beverage Pavilion continues to bring together leading brands in the industry, showcasing a diverse range of beverage products and emerging consumer trends. Supporting this dedicated exhibition area are Saigon Beer as the Gold Sponsor of the Beverage Pavilion, Hanoi Beer as the Silver Advertising Sponsor of the Beverage Pavilion, and Carlsberg Vietnam as the Bronze Sponsor of the Beverage Pavilion. Their participation contributes to promoting outstanding beverage brands while creating valuable networking opportunities between exhibitors, buyers, distributors and business partners.

The exhibition also continues to welcome the participation of many reputable domestic and international brands in the food and beverage industry, including Golden Farm, Tan Nhat Huong, Fancy Foods, Dan On, Vedan, Bibica, Huu Nghi, TH true FOOD, Khanh Hoa Bird’s Nest, Vietcoco, Rita, Miocen, Wonderful and Nam Viet, alongside international companies such as Allanasons, Al-Nasir, APK TRADING, Agroeco, Amos Food, Al-ammar Frozen Foods, Rustam Foods, Wellstand, Want Want, Learth, Kingmao and Cobi.

In the field of processing technology and packaging, the exhibition brings together companies offering advanced solutions such as Eulsung Auto Pack, Eastern Dragon, EIP, Han Viet Star, MMP Corporation, Shininghwa, QCM, Mutto Vietnam, Hao Tuan, Song Hiep Loi, Tan Phuong Vinh and Hoa Binh, showcasing modern technologies in automation, smart packaging, and production optimisation.

In addition to featuring leading domestic and international brands, Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026 also reflects diverse participation from businesses across key markets around the world, including Australia, Bangladesh, China, Denmark, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States and Vietnam. The presence of these countries not only reflects the exhibition’s increasing level of internationalisation but also presents a comprehensive overview of the global F&B supply chain – from raw materials and processed products to manufacturing technologies and modern packaging solutions.

Further affirming its international appeal, the exhibition welcomes national and territorial pavilions with participation from businesses in China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand and Vietnam. These pavilions are organized on a large, cohesive scale, showcasing each country’s signature products, export strengths, and advanced technology solutions, thereby creating favourable conditions for Vietnamese businesses to directly access quality supply sources, expand trade cooperation, and strengthen connections across the global Food & Beverage value chain.

One of the standout highlights of Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 is the continued participation of international trade promotion programs, affirming the exhibition’s appeal and credibility among foreign organizations and businesses. A prime example is The Taste Europe!, a program promoting high-quality European food products. This marks the fifth consecutive year the project has chosen the exhibition as its destination for brand promotion and trade connections in the Vietnamese market, introducing visitors to pork, beef, and processed products made from these two meats, as well as promoting apples and apple-based products.

In addition, The Drop of Excellence continues its participation in the exhibition for the second year of a promotional program spanning at least three years in the Asian market. The program focuses on introducing high-quality European dairy products, including many products from Poland, helping to expand trade cooperation opportunities and bring European agricultural products closer to Vietnamese consumers and businesses.

Notably, a delegation of Polish businesses continues to attend Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam with support from Poland’s National Support Centre for Agriculture, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Republic of Poland. The consistent presence of Polish business delegations over the years reflects the growing interest of European businesses in the Vietnamese market and further affirms the exhibition’s role as an effective trade promotion bridge between Vietnamese businesses and international partners.

For many consecutive years, the Russian Trade Promotion Centre in Vietnam has supported Russian businesses in participating in Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam, viewing the exhibition as one of the most effective trade promotion channels for showcasing products, finding partners, and expanding into the Vietnamese market. This continues to affirm the exhibition’s credibility and standing as an important destination for international trade promotion programs in the food and beverage sector.

A series of specialised activities: connecting businesses – driving innovation – expanding cooperation

Beyond serving as an exhibition and trade space, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 continues to affirm its role as a forum connecting the F&B community through a series of seminars, workshops, business-matching programs and engaging experiential activities.

The activity series opens with the international seminar ‘Building Premium Value in F&B: From Brand Identity to Distribution Channels and Packaging’ (on August 6, 2026), co-organised by VINEXAD, Italian Atelier, and CJC Marketing Agency. The seminar focuses on brand-building strategy, distribution channel development, and packaging design for F&B businesses to enhance product value and competitiveness.

Next, the specialized seminar “Green Transformation, Digital Technology, and Sustainable Nutrition” (on August 7, 2026), co-organized by VINEXAD and the Vietnam Association of Food Science and Technology (VAFOST), will provide updates on key trends in digital transformation, AI applications, sustainable product development, and supply chain optimization.

Also in the afternoon of August 7, 2026, the seminar ‘Food Packaging Compliance Management in the New Context’ organised by VINEXAD and the Vietnam Packaging Association (VINPAS), will provide new information on regulations, packaging standards, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and solutions to help businesses meet domestic and international market requirements.

At the same time, the Young Chefs Challenge: Culinary Arena, a cooking competition for young talent now in its second edition, organized in cooperation with the A Au Vocational Training Academy and the Ho Chi Minh City College of Economics and Tourism (CET), will give young chefs a platform to showcase their skills and creativity in food preparation while connecting with businesses and experts in the food and culinary service industry.

In addition, the F&B Spotlight – Business Presentations segment will allow companies to introduce their own products, technologies, and new solutions, helping them promote their brands and connect directly with customers and partners.

Notably, the VIP Buyer Program remains a key highlight, featuring scheduled B2B trade-matching activities that help improve trade promotion efficiency between businesses and domestic and international buyers, as well as major corporations (Big Corps) in the industry, opening up numerous opportunities for cooperation and business growth.

Alongside this, a check-in gift and lucky draw program, together with various interactive activities at the exhibition, will offer an engaging experience and help create a lively atmosphere throughout the three-day event.

Affirming its position as Vietnam’s leading F&B exhibition

The convergence of numerous domestic and international brands together with a high-quality series of specialised activities has established Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 as one of the most important trade promotion events in the F&B industry, helping to drive supply-demand connections, innovation, and expanded cooperation opportunities across the region.

Beyond bringing together advanced products, technologies, and solutions, the exhibition also serves as a bridge between businesses, buyers, associations, and domestic and international organizations, helping to drive innovation, technology transfer, market expansion and the enhanced competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses within the global value chain.

As the food and beverage industry moves toward a greener, smarter, and more sustainable future, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 is expected to continue driving cooperation, investment, and development, accompanying businesses on their journey to elevate Vietnamese brands and conquer new markets.

Contact Information:
VINEXAD – No. 09 Dinh Le Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Ms. Dao Thu Ha – Project Director
Mobile: (+84) 912 000 406 – Email: daoha@vinexad.com.vn

Hashtag: #Vinexad

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

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2026 – There’s a reason premium SUVs remain the vehicle of choice across much of the Middle East. People here spend a lot of time in their cars, commuting between cities, shuttling between meetings, while thinking nothing of driving hundreds of kilometers over a long weekend.

A vehicle is where conference calls are taken between appointments, where children fall asleep in the back seat on the drive home, and where many of the ordinary moments of daily life quietly unfold. That is also why buyers in the region tend to value both performance and convenience, rather than simply paying for horsepower or a premium badge.

Electric vehicles have made those decisions even more nuanced. Not long ago, conversations about EVs were largely centered on battery size, driving range and charging times. Those questions still matter, but increasingly, buyers also demand a clear picture of their post-delivery ownership experience, specifically requiring convenient charging, straightforward servicing, and long-term support.

Viewed through that lens, perhaps the most interesting thing about the VinFast VF 8 isn’t any single specification. Rather, it is the way the company has approached the ownership experience around it.

Designed by the legendary Italian design house Pininfarina, the all-electric D-segment SUV combines premium styling with everyday practicality. With up to 493 km of NEDC driving range and up to 402 horsepower through its dual-motor AWD system, the VF 8 is equally at home navigating city traffic or tackling longer journeys across the region. Its spacious cabin, Level 2 driver assistance technologies and 15.6-inch infotainment display are designed with comfort in mind, whether the journey lasts twenty minutes or two hours.

In the UAE, buyers also benefit from a 10-year vehicle warranty, a 10-year unlimited-mileage battery warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance and five years of free maintenance up to 100,000 km. These benefits strike at the heart of the EV ownership experience, especially for first-time buyers. Running low on charge before an important meeting or worrying about finding support on a long drive are precisely the kinds of concerns that can make consumers hesitate about making the switch.

Globally, VinFast has been investing heavily in the ecosystem surrounding its vehicles. Earlier this year, the company signed agreements with 29 international aftersales partners as part of its plan to expand its global service network to more than 1,100 workshops across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia during 2026. The initiative includes globally standardized technician training alongside software updates, battery inspections and technical support throughout the ownership journey.

In the UAE, VinFast works with Al Tayer Motors to provide local aftersales support while continuing to strengthen its regional service network through experienced local partners. Earlier this year, the company also signed an MoU with PlusX Electric, a DEWA-approved charging provider, to complement its charging ecosystem with portable charging pods, on-demand mobile charging and emergency roadside charging services.

In many ways, the Middle East’s EV market is still writing its next chapter. Buyers have more choices than ever before, but expectations are rising just as quickly. Developing a competitive electric SUV addresses only part of the equation; ensuring a seamless ownership experience may ultimately prove equally decisive.

https://me.vinfast.com/en

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

On 18 July 2026, families can try their hands to create a bag at the DIY Canvas Bag Workshop. Participants will get to design and personalise their own reusable canvas bags using colourful paints. Suitable for all ages and requiring no prior artistic experience, the 90-minute workshop offers a fun way to bond while taking home a unique handcrafted keepsake. Tickets are priced at S$6 per participant, making it an affordable family activity during the school holidays.

The heritage journey continues on 25 July 2026 with the Traditional Nyonya Kueh Workshop, where participants will learn to prepare two beloved Peranakan delicacies – Kueh Koswee, soft pandan rice cakes coated with freshly grated coconut and Apom Berkuah, fluffy traditional rice pancakes served with rich coconut sauce. Guided by an experienced instructor, the workshop introduces beginners to authentic recipes and the rich culinary traditions of Singapore’s Peranakan community through hands-on experience.

Both workshops will be held at the Chinatown Singapore along historic Smith Street. Conveniently located near Chinatown and Maxwell MRT stations, the venue allows visitors to complement their workshop experience with a stroll through heritage streets, traditional shops, temples and local Singaporean eateries.

“Chinatown Singapore is a living cultural district where visitors can experience Singapore’s traditions through meaningful and interactive activities,” said Lim Yick Suan, Executive Director of Chinatown Business Association. “These workshops offer international tourists and local Singaporeans an opportunity to create lasting memories while connecting with our local Singaporean heritage in a fun and engaging way.”

Event Details

DIY Canvas Bag Workshop: 18 July 2026 (Saturday)

Traditional Nyonya Kueh Workshop: 25 July 2026 (Saturday)

Venue: Chinatown Business Association, 9A Smith Street, Singapore 058923

Sessions: 11.00am–12.30pm and 1.30pm–3.00pm (2 sessions)

JOHOR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2026 – Forest City Special Financial Zone (Forest City SFZ), Malaysia’s pioneering special financial zone and emerging lifestyle and leisure hub, today released updated visitor data and travel guidance ahead of the upcoming 2026 peak travel season. New visitor data now confirms that Forest City has recorded approximately 4 million coastal visitors, over 100,000 golfers and 57 international events at its golf resort, and more than 260,000 guests at its two hotels in 2025, reinforcing its status as a growing cross-border tourism and leisure destination. The figures come as the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link approaches completion, with passenger service expected to begin in January 2027, further enhancing transportation convenience.

Forest City SFZ at a glance

Forest City SFZ is a coastal development in Johor, Malaysia, located approximately 2 km across the Tebrau Strait from Singapore. It was then designated a Special Financial Zone by the Malaysian government in August 2023. The Malaysian Parliament passed five federal bills in July 2024 designating Pulau Satu as the country’s fifth duty-free island, and the first that visitors can enter directly by vehicle.

For travellers, Forest City SFZ offers a 4 km publicly accessible coastline, two championship-rated golf courses (including its Classic Course, which has ranked in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia for seven consecutive years), guided mangrove eco-tours, sea fishing trips, and duty-free shopping. It is currently the only duty-free island in Malaysia that can be entered by vehicle without a ferry.

The Forest City beach experience with open shoreline, mangroves and sea fishing

The 4 km coastline and surrounding environment are designed to make visitors forget they are only minutes away from the city. Soft sand beaches slope gently into the water, shallow enough for children to paddle and deep enough for kayakers, windsurfers, and other water sports enthusiasts to find their rhythm. It is this unpretentious charm that has drawn approximately 4 million coastal visits in 2025 — offering an open, welcoming, and peaceful place that doesn’t feel too far from home.

The wider development sits within roughly 2.86 million m² of green space — including both golf courses, parks, mangrove corridors, and landscaped public zones — with over 400 documented plant and animal species recorded on‑site. For visitors interested in the island’s natural beauty, guided mangrove eco‑tours run along the development’s green corridor. A one‑ to two‑hour trip with a registered boat operator takes travellers past fish nurseries and bird habitats, with a stop to see the ongoing mangrove restoration work along the Johor coastline. Sea fishing trips depart from the marina with expert guides accompanying guests throughout the journey. Bookings can be made either through the hotel concierge or via official Forest Life app.

Forest City has developed three core commercial districts, bringing together over 100 shops that cover a diverse range of business formats, including international dining, duty‑free shopping, retail, healthcare, finance, and leisure and entertainment. Regular festivals, sports events, and cultural gatherings along the beachfront bring Forest City’s “Eat · Play · Chill by the Sea” concept to life.

Two championship golf courses with a seven-year ranking streak

A journey through Forest City Golf Resort reveals a landscape designed with nature in mind. Two 18‑hole championship courses sit side by side on a single property: the Classic Course, designed by veteran architect Liang Guokun, runs 7,138 yards across 69 hectares; the Legacy Course, a rare collaboration between Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II, stretches 7,386 yards across 74 hectares. Both are GEO Certified, a mark of environmental stewardship that audits water use, biodiversity, energy, and waste.

The Classic Course has placed in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia for seven consecutive years (2020–2026), a feat few courses can claim. In 2026, it climbed 14 places to No. 36 in Asia and retained its title as No. 1 in Malaysia. The Legacy Course, meanwhile, ranked No. 49 in the Asia‑Pacific Top 100 (2024–2025). In 2025, the resort welcomed over 100,000 golfers, serving as a vibrant hub for both casual golfers and professionals.

For travellers seeking events to experience, the resort hosts more than 50 tournament dates annually, including pro‑am events and corporate days. 57 major tournaments were held in 2025. The wider development hosts more than 100 international events a year — from endurance races to lifestyle festivals, including the Challenge Malaysia triathlon scheduled for October 2026.

Duty-Free Retail on Pulau Satu

Forest City was gazetted as a duty-free island under five Federal bills passed by the Malaysian Parliament in July 2024. This transformation has positioned Forest City as Malaysia’s fifth duty-free island and the first that visitors can enter directly by vehicle, without a ferry crossing.

Shelf prices on the gazetted categories — alcoholic beverages, chocolate and confectionery, cosmetics, perfumes, and other goods — are typically lower than equivalent purchases on the Malaysian mainland or in Singapore retail.

For vehicle access, visitors should take the following into consideration:

• Identification: Visitors should ensure they bring valid identification for vehicle entry.
• Import Allowances: Per-passenger import allowances on goods carried back into mainland Malaysia or into Singapore are strictly governed by the respective customs authorities. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest government guidelines and current allowances for Malaysia or Singapore before making purchases.
• Singapore Residents: GST relief thresholds and specific allowances for alcohol and tobacco are set by Singapore Customs; please verify these against the official live portal when visiting.

Forest City Accommodation: Marina Hotel, Golf Hotel, long-term stays

Forest City Marina Hotel is the development’s flagship beachfront property, offering 283 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame a 270-degree view across the Strait of Johor. Multiple dining outlets, a swimming pool, and conference facilities make it a versatile base for both leisure and business travellers. For golf-led trips, the Forest City Golf Hotel, winner of the prestigious Agoda 2025 Gold Circle Award, sits within the resort grounds and offers stay-and-play packages bundled with green fees on either course.

Forest City Golf Hotel is a five-star retreat set within the 800-hectare Forest City Golf Resort, offering 298 spacious guestrooms and suites, including Superior and Deluxe Rooms, Superior and Deluxe Suites, a Family Suite and three Presidential Suites, many with views of the surrounding golf landscape. Guests can enjoy Asian, Western and international cuisine at the Tee-Off Restaurant, private dining spaces for family gatherings and business occasions, as well as café and lounge facilities.

The hotel also provides direct access to championship golf, swimming pools, a gym, spa, golf shop, executive lounge, meeting rooms, a grand ballroom and event venues, making it suitable for leisure stays, golf getaways, corporate meetings and private celebrations.

During tournament weekends and major events, the Marina Hotel typically operates at full occupancy, with overflow demand absorbed by short-term rental units.

For longer stays and family groups, Forest City’s residential blocks offer a substantial inventory of professionally managed serviced apartments, ideal for those seeking more space or a home-away-from-home experience. Blue Horizon Suites, a newly launched sea-view serviced residence in 2026, features panoramic ocean views and a comprehensive suite of modern amenities, including a swimming pool, private beach access, and close proximity to the golf course.

Beyond accommodation, Forest City delivers an integrated lifestyle environment, with year-round dining options, the on-site Forest City International School (a CATS Global Schools campus), and the duty-free retail cluster on Pulau Satu.

Accessibility: getting to Forest City SFZ in 2026

Forest City SFZ sits approximately 2 km across the Tebrau Strait from Singapore, closer to central Singapore than most Singaporeans are to Changi Airport. By road via the Tuas Second Link, the drive is roughly 40 minutes from Singapore CBD(Central Business District) and roughly 60 minutes from Changi Airport.

From Johor Bahru CBD, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes by car, while Senai International Airport is about 50 minutes away. This puts travellers at the coast, close enough for a spontaneous weekend escape, yet far enough to feel like a proper getaway. For Singapore-based visitors, hotel shuttles and chartered coaches via the Second Link are the most convenient option, with the journey offering a scenic Strait crossing as a picturesque introduction to the destination.

The RTS Link, targeted for completion in December 2026, will reduce the Bukit Chagar–Woodlands North crossing time to about five minutes, with an expected fare of approximately S$5–S$7 and peak capacity of 10,000 passengers per hour per direction.

From	Mode	Approx. time	Notes
Singapore CBD	Car via Second Link	~40 min	Tuas Checkpoint; allow weekend buffer
Singapore Changi Airport	Car via Second Link	~60 min	Most direct from arrival
Singapore Woodlands	RTS Link (passenger Jan 2027)	~5 min crossing + transfer	S$5–S$7 fare; confirm onward connection
Johor Bahru CBD	Car	~30 min	Local taxi or e-hailing
Senai International Airport	Car	~50 min	Domestic + regional gateway

Singapore weekend visitors can arrive on Friday evening via the Second Link, with the journey from Singapore’s CBD taking approximately 40 minutes. The stay-and-play package offers a low-friction entry point: two nights’ accommodation at the Forest City Golf Hotel, daily breakfast, and one round of 18 holes on the Classic Course. Saturday and Sunday can be split between golf and the 4 km public coastline, with duty‑free shopping and a long brunch on Pulau Satu before the return crossing.
Malaysian families on a long weekend can fill an unhurried two‑day itinerary with the 4 km coastline, mangrove eco‑tours and water sports. The coastline has drawn approximately 4 million visitors in 2025, with school‑holiday weeks bringing the most coastal events. For families with children, the Forest City Water Park offers gentle water play zones and casual aquatic recreation suitable for younger visitors.

Corporate groups, MICE planners and cross‑border professionals can utilise the Forest City Hotel’s conference facilities and block-booking capabilities. The resort’s 57 major golf tournaments in 2025 demonstrate its capacity to absorb large groups. The Marina Hotel spans over 830,000 sq. ft with 283 rooms, multiple dining outlets, a fitness centre and a swimming pool. Once the RTS Link begins passenger service in January 2027, Forest City will become viable as a same‑day cross‑border meeting venue for Singapore‑based groups, with the Bukit Chagar–Woodlands North crossing reduced to approximately five minutes.

A destination backed by policy, infrastructure, and visitor data

A single weekend at any leisure destination can tell only a small part of the bigger story. But the data — 4 km of public coastline, two championship golf courses with a seven-year Asia’s Top 100 streak, status as Malaysia’s fifth duty-free island, more than 100 events a year, and located just 2 km from Singapore, with an RTS Link offering passenger service from January 2027 — point to a growing travel destination backed by infrastructure and policy support.

Hashtag: #ForestCity

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

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 July 2026 – E-commerce across Asia Pacific is entering a new phase of maturity, as both online shoppers and businesses rapidly adopt modern technologies. Three forces are reshaping the region’s digital marketplace: rising demand for AI-driven shopping experiences, growing appetite for subscription models and expanding payment flexibility. This is according to DHL eCommerce’s latest global survey conducted among online shoppers and businesses from Australia, China, India, Malaysia and Thailand.

“As digital lifestyles continue to evolve across Asia Pacific, innovation in e-commerce will accelerate in ways we cannot fully predict today,” said Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce. “What is clear is that shopper expectations will continue to rise. A seamless, intuitive and personalized experience remains fundamental to engaging customers. But the real opportunity lies in bridging any gaps, particularly around trust, convenience and choice for long-term loyalty.”

AI adoption surges but gap remains between usage and trust
Across Asia Pacific, AI adoption is already gaining traction among both shoppers and businesses. Around 40% of shoppers have used AI-powered tools such as chatbots and virtual assistants for customer service or to obtain recommendations as part of their online shopping journey. This number is set to rise with another 37% stating that they would like to use AI tools in the future for these purposes, highlighting a strong appetite for more personalized and intuitive experiences.

Businesses show strong adoption, with 80% indicating that they are currently using AI across their e-commerce platforms. In particular, the top two business use cases of AI are to offer personalized and tailored recommendations to their online customers, and to conduct product reviews or image comparison. In fact, digitally fluent customers and advanced commercial ecosystems are underlying determinants of Asia Pacific businesses’ strong ability to lead the development of agentic commerce.

Looking ahead, companies overwhelmingly expect AI usage to increase further over the next five years, particularly across forecasting of future trends, virtual try-ons, and fraud detection.

However, a clear gap between trust and usage towards AI is emerging. While shoppers are actively using AI tools today, their willingness to let AI make purchasing decisions remains mixed, with concerns around privacy and accuracy cited by 62% and 50% of respondents, respectively. Their concerns are also mirrored among businesses.

Subscription models gain momentum, especially for delivery and returns
Demand for subscription-based shopping experience is growing across Asia Pacific, with a large majority of respondents indicating that they already hold at least one product subscription. Among them, 35% have three or more product subscriptions. Discounted or preferential pricing as well as loyalty rewards are the top two motivators of product subscriptions.

Additionally, intent is rising sharply particularly for logistics-related subscriptions. Across the region, 61% of shoppers in Australia, 32% in China, 52% in India, 47% in Malaysia, and 42% in Thailand say that they subscribe to at least one delivery and returns program. There is also a likelihood that more will be a “logistics-subscription convert” as one in two reported that they would consider subscribing to one over the next five years.

Correspondingly, 71% of Asia Pacific businesses already offer a subscription-based delivery and returns model, and 21% intend to do so within the next five years. Such models are expected to focus on benefits such as discounted pricing, priority service, greater flexibility and loyalty rewards, aligning closely with shopper motivations.

Payments expand to meet demand for speed, choice and convenience
Payment ecosystems across the Asia-Pacific region are evolving rapidly, with strong alignment between consumer preferences and business offerings. Shoppers across the region continue to transact online using credit/debit cards and digital wallets, while adoption of newer options such as Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), cryptocurrency and biometric authentication is steadily increasing. This trend is particularly pronounced in markets such as China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand, where mobile-first commerce is driving the growth of digital payment solutions.

Fueled by a mobile-first consumer base, Asia Pacific businesses are already offering a range of payment methods, including digital wallets, BNPL, and biometric checkout, with the aim of reducing checkout friction and improving conversion rates.

About the DHL eCommerce Trends Report 2026
The DHL eCommerce Trends Report 2026 surveyed 29,000 consumers and 5,800 businesses across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa. By combining shopper and business perspectives into a single unified view, the report provides practical insights to help e-commerce brands respond to evolving operational demands.

https://group.dhl.com/en.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dhlecommerce/posts/?feedView=all

Hashtag: #DHLeCommerce #ecommercetrends #digitalpayments #AI #subscriptions

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

·       Cocaine: 2.8% of positive tests, up 68.5% YoY
·       ATS (including methamphetamine): 32.7% of positive tests, up 5.2% YoY
·       Cannabis: 64.4% of positive tests, up 1.7% YoY

If there’s a silver lining, it’s that opioid use (including oxycodone) is down. Opioids were present in 18.2% of positive tests, in Q2, down 14.0% YoY.

This quarter, 2.8% of all screens conducted by TDDA indicated the presence of drugs, showing a slight downward trend compared with 3.0% in Q1. Of positive test rates, there is a backdrop of cocaine and ATS rebounding strongly against the same quarter a year ago.

Cocaine accounted for 2.8% of positive tests in Q2 2026, up 68.5% YoY, and setting aside the seasonal Q4 peak, its highest level in a year.

“TDDA data is showing that cocaine retreated from Q4 levels, which peaked over Christmas and New Year, but is roaring back in Q2. It is becoming increasingly likely that cocaine, buoyed by cartels and other South Pacific drug trade activity, is something employers even in white collar industries need to worry about. The substance is becoming highly available due to supply networks – rather than just a one-off spike,” says Glenn Dobson, chief executive of TDDA.

ATS, including methamphetamine, accounted for 32.7% of positive tests, up 5.2% YoY, after easing since Q3 2025. Businesses in the South Island should take note, as the region is seeing the largest spike in positive rates.

Opioids accounted for 18.2% of positive tests, down 14.0% YoY, while cannabis accounted for 64.4% of positive tests, up 1.7% YoY. Detection rates for both remain stubbornly high.

“Cocaine and ATS interfere with the way the brain judges risk, producing misplaced confidence and slower decisions at exactly the wrong moment. On safety-critical sites, where a small margin or a split second can be the difference, that combination can turn deadly fast. When judgement slips on a construction site or behind the wheel of a truck, the consequences reach past the workers and colleagues, and into families waiting at home.”

Regional trends

TDDA tracks regional fluctuations in substance use to help employers better manage workplace safety risks through targeted testing, education, and early intervention.

Cocaine

Cocaine is spreading nationally, reaching its highest level in a year across several regions below.

·       Canterbury: 3.1% of positive tests, up 375.8% YoY

·       Otago: 4.5% of positive tests, up 146.2% YoY

·       Hawke’s Bay: 5.3% of positive tests, up 81.3% YoY

·       Manawatū-Whanganui recorded cocaine detections of 5.1% of positive tests in Q2 2026, up from zero detections in the same quarter last year

ATS

The YoY rise in ATS runs strongest through the South Island.

·       Southland: 44.0% of positive tests, up 200.8% YoY

·       Otago: 25.4% of positive tests, up 153.7% YoY

·       Bay of Plenty: 34.4% of positive tests, up 84.4% YoY

The quarterly ATS picture suggests employers should watch further north too. Auckland East, Hawke’s Bay, Northland, Taranaki and Tasman have all turned sharply upward in recent quarters.

Opioids

Opioids are settling nationally, though some regions keep climbing.

·       Gisborne: 26.3% of positive tests, up 216.0% YoY

·       Taranaki: 14.3% of positive tests, up 62.0% YoY

·       Wellington: 18.6% of positive tests, up 56.6% YoY

·       Otago: 41.8% of positive tests, up 27.7% YoY, the highest detection rate in the country.

What this means for employers

“When cocaine and ATS move region by region like this, a drug and alcohol testing programme set once and left alone quietly falls behind the risk. The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 puts the obligation on employers to manage foreseeable risks, and substance use in safety-critical roles is exactly that. The starting point is a drug and alcohol policy that covers illicit, synthetic and prescription drugs alongside alcohol. It also gives managers and supervisors who sense something is off, yet don’t really know how to act, a clear path to follow,” says Dobson.

Stimulants can clear the body faster than depressants like opioids, so a single test at one point in time often misses them, and when and how a business tests employees shapes what is discovered.

“Pre-employment testing catches drug use at the door and shows on day one that the policy is more than words on paper. To keep catching fast-clearing substances like stimulants after that, random testing works well alongside it.

“In Q1 we warned that opioids were spreading quietly, and this quarter the more visible stimulants are returning alongside them. In the end, this isn’t just about compliance, because every person who turns up on site each day deserves to finish the day and get home safe. That is what TDDA protects.”

Methodology: Tests from 27 sterile clinic locations and over 60 mobile clinics throughout New Zealand were used. All tests were taken between 1 April and 30 June 2026. Data from pre-employment, post incident, regular and random testing has been combined. Testing methods included urine and oral fluid screening. Data is reported into, anonymised, and aggregated using TDDA’s Imperans system, a bespoke IT platform for testing services, data recording, and reporting. It represents a snapshot of drug trends across Australasian workplaces and industries.

Total figures on testing volumes or testing results by industry and region are commercially sensitive.

TDDA drug tests screen for amphetamines; benzodiazepines; cocaine; methamphetamine; opiates and opioids; Cannabis; and synthetic drugs.

About the Imperans Report

The Imperans report addresses an information gap for business. Government organisations like ACC and WorkSafe publish incident reports, but they do not quantify when substances are a factor. Reports build businesses’ understanding of substance use patterns regionally and temporally so that they can anticipate and reduce workplace risks. TDDA provides over 250,000 tests every year.

About The Drug Detection Agency

The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) is a leader in workplace substance testing with more than 300 staff, 90 mobile health clinics, 65 locations throughout Australasia. TDDA was established in 2005 to provide New Zealand and Australian businesses with end-to-end workplace substance testing, education and policy services. TDDA holds ISO17025 accreditation for workplace substance testing in both AU and NZ. Refer to the IANZ and NATA websites for TDDA’s full accreditation details. As members of the National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association (NDASA) and the California Narcotic Officers Association (CNOA), TDDA closely follows and acts on global drug trends.

Learn more about TDDA at https://tdda.com/, and read about the thinking behind TDDA’s work at https://tdda.com/protecting-the-girl-on-the-bike/.