Leveraging Hong Kong’s Leading Four-Stage Value Chain in Asia to Capture Significant Market Opportunities

Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP, delivered a keynote address titled “Supercharging Battery and Energy Storage Innovation for Energy Transition” at the Summit, to share insights from the report and experiences in commercialising home-grown R&D. The report highlights the explosive growth of the global BES market while underscoring Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s leading Greentech hub, driven by a comprehensive four-stage value chain spanning frontier R&D, integration and intelligence, green finance, and end-of-life battery management.

Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP, said: “HKSTP is fully committed to supporting the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong’s first Five-Year Plan, and the HKSAR Government’s Policy Address initiatives, as we work tirelessly to build Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology hub. The global energy transition is ushering in an unprecedented golden era for the BES industry. By taking the initiative to publish our inaugural Strategic Analysis Report, HKSTP is not only identifying global industry opportunities, but also showcasing Hong Kong’s position as a leading energy storage ecosystem in Asia with a comprehensive value chain. HKSTP will continue to serve as both a ‘super-connector’ and a ‘super value-adder’, helping companies overcome commercialisation barriers, align with international standards, and capture the significant opportunities in the global multi-trillion-dollar energy storage market.”

HKSTP regards green technology as one of its core strategic industries. Its ecosystem brings together more than 250 green tech companies, around 100 of which focus on BES. In response to the strong growth driven by the global energy transition, HKSTP aims to increase the number of BES companies by 60% to more than 160 over the next few years. Notably, three of the world’s top ten battery and energy storage leaders—CATL, BYD, and Gotion High-Tech—have already established a presence within the HKSTP ecosystem. Their presence creates strong industrial synergies with park companies, deepening cross-disciplinary technology exchanges, supply chain integration, and business matching.

Two Key Insights Outlining Opportunities for Hong Kong’s Energy Storage Industry:

The report provides an in-depth analysis of market data and compares BES development models and policies across major global economies. Drawing on interviews with local and overseas industry partners and park companies, it identifies two key insights:

1. Global Energy Opportunities Drive Rapid Growth in the BES Industry

Hashtag: #HKSTP

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Over the course of the two-hour program, participants explored a central question: how can wildlife habitats be protected and restored in regions characterized by intensive development, high population density and increasingly fragmented natural spaces.

Balancing Development and Biodiversity

Jiangsu faces a distinctive set of environmental challenges. Covering just 1.1 percent of China’s land area, the province is home to around 6 percent of the country’s population and generates more than 10 percent of its GDP. Against this backdrop, Jiangsu has prioritized ecological conservation and green development, strengthened pollution control and pursued systematic ecosystem restoration.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021–2025), the province continued to improve its environmental quality. Average annual PM2.5 concentrations fell 16.5 percent from the end of the previous five-year period, while the proportion of nationally monitored river sections meeting good or excellent water-quality standards rose by 11.5 percentage points.

Biodiversity surveys have recorded 9,266 species across the province, including 2,363 newly discovered species. These findings reflect both the richness of Jiangsu’s natural environment and the growing capacity to document and protect it.

Environmental DNA Offers a New Way to Monitor the Yangtze

Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology is providing a more sensitive, non-invasive way to track changes in aquatic ecosystems along the Yangtze River.

Unlike conventional monitoring methods, which often require capturing organisms for identification, eDNA monitoring collects water samples and analyzes genetic material left behind by aquatic life. DNA barcoding can then be used to identify species without directly capturing them.

Jiangsu began exploring the technology in 2012 and launched a dedicated pilot program in Taihu Lake in 2017. In 2019, it established the first specialized eDNA laboratory within China’s ecological and environmental protection system. A provincial standard introduced in 2023 further standardized procedures for sampling, quality control and data annotation.

Today, 19 routine monitoring sections have been established along the Yangtze River in Jiangsu, covering eight cities. Monitoring is conducted four times a year.

Between 2021 and 2025, the number of fish species recorded through the program increased from 84 to 104. Protected species, including the Chinese sucker, Myxocyprinus asiaticus, the long-nosed gudgeon, Rhinogobio ventralis, and the long-snout catfish, Ochetobius elongatus, were detected again. Environmental DNA signals of the Yangtze finless porpoise were found at all 19 monitoring sections.

Protecting the Yangtze Finless Porpoise Through Public Participation

The Yangtze finless porpoise has become a symbol of the coexistence of urban communities and nature.

In Nanjing, a coordinated observation network has been established along key sections of the river. Volunteers regularly record sightings in the field, contributing more than 69,000 observation records and providing valuable data to support conservation efforts.

Public participation extends beyond monitoring. The “Fish for Finless Porpoises” initiative has held more than 100 fish-release events, releasing over six million juvenile fish and attracting more than 5,000 participants.

Another initiative, “Help Crabs Return Home,” has conducted nighttime patrols for three consecutive years to protect the migration of Chinese mitten crabs. Eco-friendly crab passageways made from recycled materials have also been installed to help the crabs navigate barriers along their migration routes.

The conservation network has also drawn international volunteers. More than 300 participants from over 15 countries and regions have taken part in related projects, helping expand cooperation from the Yangtze River to marine ecosystems.

A Legal Framework for Protecting the Plain-River Network

Jiangsu’s Biodiversity Conservation Regulation took effect on May 22, 2025, becoming China’s first provincial regulation dedicated to biodiversity conservation in plain-river network regions.

Effective conservation also depends on a comprehensive understanding of local biodiversity. Since 2017, Jiangsu has taken the lead in conducting province-wide biodiversity surveys organized by county-level administrative units.

More than 20 professional teams have established 17,400 transects, 10,100 quadrats and 12,600 sampling sites, generating over 620,000 survey records. The first round of surveys was completed in 2025, documenting 9,266 species across the province.

Building on these findings, Jiangsu has designated 25 key biodiversity areas and established 20 biodiversity observation stations. Satellite remote sensing, eDNA analysis and AI-powered species identification are being integrated into a monitoring network designed to improve automation, digitalization and remote observation.

Restoration Efforts Deliver Tangible Results

Jiangsu has established 23 ecological island pilot zones and 171 ecological security buffer zones, while creating or restoring 3,735 hectares of wetlands.

The results are becoming increasingly visible. In 2023, crested ibises were released into the wild for the first time along China’s eastern coast as part of a reintroduction effort. In May 2026, the birds achieved natural breeding in the wild. The Yangtze finless porpoise population in Jiangsu has also continued to recover, while the number of waterbirds wintering in the province has remained above 500,000.

Together, these efforts demonstrate how habitat restoration, scientific monitoring and stronger legal protections can support biodiversity recovery in a region under significant development pressure.

Building International Partnerships for Biodiversity

Jiangsu Day also provided a platform for dialogue between Jiangsu and Armenia, as well as other regions along the Silk Road.

Despite their different geographical settings, the two regions share several points of comparison. Both occupy important positions in their respective countries’ economies and have connections to major migratory bird routes. Armenia is home to distinctive species such as the Armenian butterfly, while Jiangsu is known for the Chinese tiger swallowtail. Lake Sevan plays a critical role in Armenia’s water security, while Jiangsu is responsible for protecting and managing ecosystems across the Yangtze, Taihu Lake and Huai River basins.

The event featured presentations and discussions on implementation pathways for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, local conservation practices and opportunities for technological cooperation.

The discussions underscored a shared message: in economically developed and densely populated regions, biodiversity conservation need not come at the expense of development. Rather, a healthy natural environment is an essential foundation for sustainable, high-quality growth.

The program brought together experts from China and abroad. Tajik academician Saidov Abdusator delivered a presentation on preventing the introduction and spread of invasive alien species. Marietta Sakkalian, an expert with the United Nations Environment Programme, Nancy Malangu, an expert with a Kenyan foundation, Hao Haiguang, a researcher at the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, and Jiang Meng, executive vice president and secretary-general of the Nanjing Yangtze Finless Porpoise Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Association, joined discussions on how major economic regions can balance development with biodiversity protection.

Jiangsu has been expanding its international conservation partnerships for years. Changshu, Yancheng and Suzhou have been recognized as International Wetland Cities, while Nanjing was included in the Nature Cities platform at COP16. Jiangsu has also joined Zhejiang Province in establishing a Taihu Lake regional alliance for implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and signed cooperation agreements on biodiversity conservation with neighboring regions in Shanghai, Zhejiang and Anhui.

Looking ahead, Jiangsu will continue to strengthen its legal framework, improve monitoring and supervision, enhance enforcement and deepen international cooperation. Through these efforts, the province aims to offer a model for advancing ecological conservation in China and contribute to global efforts to protect the planet’s biodiversity.

Source: Dental for All

Thursday 29 October

A new election resource (link) from Dental for All reveals the dental policies – and lack of dental policies – released by political parties as part of their 2026 election platforms.

“Our oral health system is in crisis, and the costs of this neglect are huge, but this issue has largely been ignored by political parties this election. We urge all political parties to commit to addressing the urgent need in communities that has resulted from the privatised model for adult dental care, and the underfunding of children’s oral healthcare within the public system,” says Hana Pilkinton-Ching, campaigner for Dental for All.

The Green Party and now Te Pāti Māori have included universal free dental care and primary care in their 2026 election platforms. Labour are campaigning on making GP visits and other health services free as part of their Medicard, but have not included dental, despite campaigning on free dental care for under-30s at the 2023 election. None of the current coalition parties have released dental policies.

A Talbot Mills poll released in March shows increased support for bringing dental care into the public health system. 86% of New Zealanders support bringing dental care into the public health system, and 80% believe dental care should be free for adults. The poll found strong support across the political spectrum.

“Aotearoa pioneered publicly funded dental care for children over a century ago. We have the workforce, the experience and the evidence to build on that legacy. What we need now is the political commitment to make accessible oral healthcare a reality for everyone,” says Samuel Carrington, Associate Dean Māori and Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago Faculty of Dentistry, and member of the Dental for All coalition.

The Government recently announced an increase in the number of funded places for domestic students to study dentistry at the University of Otago from 60 to 72. An increase in training seats was one of the policy steps proposed in the report (link) released in April, ‘Fixing Oral Healthcare in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Costed Policy Plan for Delivering Dental for All’.

“Any investment in growing Aotearoa’s oral health workforce is absolutely welcome, but training more dentists alone will not address the significant barriers people face in accessing dental care. We already have a highly skilled oral health therapy workforce trained to deliver preventive and restorative care, yet we are not fully utilising their potential. If we are serious about improving oral health outcomes, particularly for Māori and communities experiencing the greatest inequities, we need to invest in the entire oral health workforce alongside expanding publicly funded dental services,” says Carrington.

“We know from Health New Zealand’s own data that just 3.7% of dentists and dental surgeons work in the public system,” says Harriet Wild, Director of Policy & Research at Toi Mata Hauora Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, another member of the Dental for All coalition.

“Public Futures Aotearoa’s new report has shown that 80% of all new public health funding in the last 3 years has gone into the private sector, at the expense of the public health system. This erodes the capacity and capability of the public system to deliver care, resulting in spiralling waitlists, health workforce burnout and crumbling infrastructure,” says Wild.

“With limited public sector roles, many clinicians are forced into insecure private conditions with unpredictable incomes and intense commercial pressures. This lack of stability is alarming for new graduates entering the profession, leaving many with no choice but to cross the ditch to Australia in search of better opportunities. Implementing Dental for All through a publicly funded Adult Community Oral Health Service transforms our profession by creating secure, salaried public positions.” says Chanae Ihimaera, Senior Lecturer in Oral Health at AUT.

“We have a robust, costed model for free, universal and Te Tiriti o Waitangi-consistent oral healthcare delivered through an Adult Community Oral Health Service. We know this policy has public support, now we just need political parties to pick this up. We will not stand for another three years without action while people are suffering in pain,” says Pilkinton-Ching.

Further details:

• Dental for All (link) is a campaign for free, universal and Te Tiriti o Waitangi-consistent oral healthcare as part of the public health system. We are supported by a coalition of unions, oral health clinicians and academics, campaigners, service providers, and advocacy organisations.
• See Dental for All’s election resource (link) for information about the dental policies released by political parties this election.
• Polling conducted by Talbot Mills Research surveyed 1060 individuals (using nationally representative respondents 18 years and over). The maximum sampling error is 3.1%. Fieldwork was conducted between 12 and 24 March 2026.
  • In response to the question, ‘Adult dental care is largely privatised. Do you support dental care being brought into the public healthcare system?’: 83% supported, including 88% of Labour voters and 78% of National voters.
  • In response to the question, ‘Do you support free dental care for adults, as it is for under-18s?’: 80% supported, including 87% of Labour voters and 76% of National voters.
• The increase to Government-funded places for domestic students at the University of Otago is the first increase since 2014.
  • 1961: increased to 60
  • 1984: deceased to 54
  • 2014: increased to 60
• Dental for All’s report, ‘Fixing Oral Healthcare in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Costed Policy Plan for Delivering Dental for All (link)’ was released in April 2026. This sets out a costed model for free, universal and Te Tiriti o Waitangi-consistent oral healthcare delivered through an Adult Community Oral Health Service, including a network of 701 publicly-owned community clinics staffed by salaried oral health professionals. The estimated operating costs for the proposed model are $936 million per year, alongside a one-off capital investment of $1.1 billion.
• The recent report ‘Who owns the health system? How public funding is driving private profit (link)’ was published on Tuesday 27 October 2026 by Public Futures Aotearoa (link). The report was commissioned by three health unions: NZNO, ASMS and the PSA, with support from the Centre for International Corporate Tax Accountability and Research (CICTAR).
• Another recent report published by the Public Service Association (PSA), ‘Children’s Oral Health Workers: Voices for Dental for All (link)’, features the voices of 19 people working in the current public provision of care for under 18 year olds.
• A 2024 report by FrankAdvice for Dental for All, ‘The social, economic, and fiscal costs of the current settings for adult oral health (link)’, estimates the current model is costing billions each year due to the downstream effects of unmet need for oral healthcare. This includes $2.5 billion in lost productivity, $3.1 billion in lost quality of life and further costs due to additional strain on the health system.
• In the 2024/25 NZ Health Survey, 43% of adults reported unmet need for dental care due to cost (link). In comparison, 14.9% of adults reported unmet need for GP due to cost (link).

Source: ARM Hub

Queensland manufacturers have been given extra time to apply for the Queensland Manufacturing AI Uplift Trial Program, with expressions of interest closing COB Friday 6 November 2026.

The program provides up to $250,000 as 80% co-funding into fully delivered AI services to eligible manufacturers. ARM Hub engineers will work directly with successful businesses to identify a practical AI use case, then build, deploy and measure the solution.

Who should apply

The program is open to Queensland manufacturers with:

• Between five and 500 full-time equivalent staff
• At least half of those staff based in Queensland
• At least two years’ continuous operation in Queensland
• A clear AI use case and a practical pathway to deployment.

At least one Flagship Project will be awarded to a regional Queensland manufacturer, defined as a business located outside Greater Brisbane.

What happens next

Shortlisted applicants will work with ARM Hub to develop an AI roadmap at no cost. A joint ARM Hub and Queensland Government panel will then assess the roadmaps and select the Flagship Companies, who will share in up to $750,000 in co-funding support.

Key dates:

• EOI closes: COB Friday 6 November 2026
• Shortlisted companies announced: By end November 2026
• Roadmaps delivered: November-December 2026
• Flagship Companies announced: By end January 2027
• Projects commence: March 2027

Don’t leave it to the last day!

With the FINAL deadline confirmed as 6 November, manufacturers interested in applying should find out more, review guidelines and submit their EOI early via ARM Hub: Queensland Manufacturing AI Uplift.

About ARM Hub

The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Hub is one of Australia’s four government-backed AI Adopt Centres. Based in Brisbane, ARM Hub partners with manufacturers, SMEs, researchers, and technology companies to drive innovation and productivity through advanced automation and AI solutions.

Founders are pressing ahead with US expansion despite immigration uncertainty, according to new research from Beyond Border. Its Founder Mobility Pulse survey found that 82% have not changed their plans to expand to the US, while an analysis of 1,140 immigration inquiries from Asia offers insights into the region’s role in US market entry.

SINGAPORE & HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Despite continued uncertainty surrounding US immigration policies, founders remain committed to expanding into the American market, according to new research from US immigration platform Beyond Border.

Beyond Border’s Founder Mobility Pulse survey, conducted in August 2026 among 307 respondents worldwide, found that 82% had not changed their US expansion plans despite immigration uncertainty. A further 11% reported either accelerating their timelines or exploring alternative visa pathways.

The findings form part of Beyond Border’s October 2026 market commentary, which also draws on proprietary analysis of 1,140 US immigration enquiries from Asia-based individuals between August 2025 and September 2026, alongside US government immigration statistics and regional talent mobility data.

The research suggests that while immigration uncertainty is influencing how founders approach US market entry, access to the American market remains an important commercial priority.

“For founders, the question is no longer simply whether to expand into the US, but how to establish the right presence there. We’re seeing businesses pursue access to American customers while keeping key functions in their home markets. Immigration planning needs to be part of that strategy from the outset, rather than something founders address only when they’re ready to relocate,” said Fred Ng, Cofounder & CEO of Beyond Border.

Four Findings on US Expansion and Immigration Trends

Beyond Border’s research highlights four developments shaping US expansion and international talent mobility:

1. Access to US customers remains the biggest expansion driver: Some 85% of survey respondents identified access to US customers as their primary motivation for expansion, compared with 8% citing fundraising and investors. Meanwhile, 60% plan to expand into the US within the next 12 months.

2. Founders are taking a more distributed approach to US expansion: Nearly two-thirds (64%) expect to establish a US presence through the founder alone or alongside a small team. At the same time, 72% intend to retain engineering and product functions in Asia, suggesting that US market entry does not necessarily require relocating entire operations.

3. Immigration uncertainty is not deterring founders’ US expansion plans: Beyond Border’s analysis of 1,140 immigration enquiries from Asia-based individuals found that approximately 45% (510) concerned the O-1 visa. Meanwhile, US government data shows diverging approval trends across immigration pathways. Between FY2022 and FY2024, approved L-1 petitions declined by 31%, while O-1/O-2 approvals increased slightly by 1%. Over a separate period, FY2023 to FY2025, EB-1A approvals increased by 20%, while EB-2 NIW approvals declined by 39%. These figures reflect changes in approval volumes rather than approval rates.

4. Changing talent mobility patterns could create opportunities for Asian economies: Estimates from Xpheno indicate that the number of US-based technology professionals returning to India increased from approximately 7,200 in 2023 to 15,100 in 2025. While these movements cannot be attributed solely to immigration policies, they point to broader shifts in international technology talent mobility.

As founders navigate an evolving immigration environment, Beyond Border’s research highlights the importance of aligning immigration decisions with commercial priorities, market entry strategies and long-term business plans.

For the full market commentary, visit https://lp.beyondborderglobal.com/organic/us-expansion-report-2026

https://www.beyondborderglobal.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyondborder/?viewAsMember=true
https://www.facebook.com/BeyondBorder01Visas
https://www.instagram.com/beyondborderglobal/

Hashtag: #beyondborder #tech #immigration

Beyond Border

As global commercial vehicle competition intensifies, international growth requires strong products and manufacturing as well as professional full-lifecycle service. BAIC FOTON’s growing African lineup creates diverse sales, maintenance and technical-support needs, making local talent development essential. Since early 2026, the company has delivered nearly 100 specialized training sessions in key markets, including heavy-duty truck engine disassembly in Argentina, all-electric bus fault diagnosis in Türkiye, and one-day intensive training for five rotating groups in Uruguay. The programs turn headquarters’ technical standards into practical frontline diagnostic and repair skills.

Lu Zhenghua said the center will support Africa’s regional operating system and deeper localization by connecting technical standards, service experience and local team capabilities, while improving coordination among product supply, after-sales support and talent development. Wang Zhuozhong, VP of BAIC FOTON INTERNATIONAL, introduced the center’s background and development plan. Local partners discussed service cooperation, support for service providers and future opportunities.

Centered in South Africa and serving the wider continent, the center will share technical standards and service experience and help dealers improve spare-parts stocking, maintenance processes and response efficiency, advancing standardized, professional services.

The 900-square-meter facility allocates 450 square meters each to theoretical and practical training. A 140-square-meter classroom seats 80, and a 35-square-meter classroom seats 24. Offices and rest areas support five practical zones: complete vehicles, engines, transmissions, electrical and electronic systems, and new-energy vehicles. The facility supports training across BAIC FOTON’s product range and job roles.

After touring the center, Lu Zhenghua and his delegation met local dealers and customers to discuss regional business. African dealers welcomed its contribution to local talent and service capability, and looked forward to deeper technical and business cooperation.

Building on local manufacturing in South Africa, BAIC FOTON is integrating manufacturing, spare-parts supply, after-sales support and professional training. It will continue working with African partners to deepen internationalization and localization and promote high-quality growth across the continent.

Hashtag: #BAICFOTON

Assuming there will be no change in the issued share capital of the Company between 28 October 2026 and the completion of Placing, a maximum of 100,000,000 Placing Shares under the Placing represents 10.00% of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of this announcement, and approximately 9.09% of the issued share capital as enlarged by the issue of the Placing Shares.

Assuming that all the Placing Shares are fully placed, the estimated gross proceeds and net proceeds (after deducting the placing commission and other related expenses and professional fees) from the Placing will amount to approximately HK$97.0 million and approximately HK$94.6 million, respectively.

The Company intends to apply as to 60% of the net proceeds (approximately HK$56.76 million) of the Placing for the development and expansion of the Group’s new energy business, including (i) investments and development of battery energy storage systems; (ii) integrated charging, battery-swapping and energy storage station; and (iii) other renewable energy related projects such as artificial intelligence data centre (“AIDC”) energy infrastructure; and as to 40% of the net proceeds (approximately HK$37.84 million) for financing the Group’s working capital for its construction and engineering businesses.

The Group is committed to developing sustainable clean energy system solutions, implementing the commercialisation of charging and battery swap service technologies for electric commercial vehicles and electric heavy machinery and equipment, operating “battery bank”, and targeting commercial and industrial energy storage and battery swap businesses. The Group has successfully entering into additional new energy business areas with development potential, thereby driving the sustained growth of the business scale and profitability of the relevant operations. The Board believes that the net proceeds from the Placing will enable the Group to strengthen its existing core engineering business while capturing emerging opportunities in the renewable energy sector. In particular, the Board is of the view that battery energy storage systems, charging and battery-swapping infrastructure and AIDC-related energy facilities are expected to benefit from the increasing demand for clean energy and digital infrastructure development in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

Hashtag: #WingLee

About Wing Lee Development Construction Holdings Limited

Contributing to Northern Metropolis development through network infrastructure

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 October 2026 – HKT (SEHK: 6823) – HKT Innovation & Technology Centre and AI Exchange in the Loop, Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park (HSITP) officially open. The initiative marks a further step in HKT’s support for Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) and industrial development through its network infrastructure, while laying the groundwork for future cross-boundary data flows within the Greater Bay Area (GBA) through the Loop. It also provides solid support for the Northern Metropolis development, which focuses on university towns, I&T and industries, and building an ideal place for living, work and travel.

Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, officiated the opening ceremony, together with Patrick Poon, Chief Financial Officer, HKT; Steve Ng, Managing Director of Commercial Group, HKT; and Ricky Kwong, Head of Fixed Network Engineering, HKT and CEO, Fiber Link Global, marking a significant milestone in Hong Kong’s network infrastructure development.

Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR said in his opening remarks, “The Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone is an integral part of Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem, comprising the three major I&T parks and five key R&D institutions. HKT’s operation in the Hetao Hong Kong Park demonstrates the confidence of major enterprises in the future development of the Loop and the Northern Metropolis. By leveraging the unique advantages of ‘one river, two banks’ and ‘one zone, two parks’, HKT can further deepen collaboration and foster synergies across the I&T industries in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The Hetao Hong Kong Park will also serve as a strategic hub for enterprises’ AI deployment. HKT’s AI Exchange, which connects to existing data centres across Hong Kong, will facilitate cross-sectoral AI innovation and applications. Through ultra-low-latency, high-speed and secure network connectivity, it will enable access to local computing resources and support the development of the Sandy Ridge Data Facility Cluster, further strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a regional hub for advanced data and computing power.”

Steve Ng, Managing Director of Commercial Group, said, “Soft connectivity’, encompassing the seamless integration of technology, platforms, data, services and industry ecosystems, is key to strengthening Hong Kong’s international competitiveness and unlocking economic value. The opening of the HKT Innovation & Technology Centre and AI Exchange in the Loop not only marks a new milestone of the Group’s participation in the development of the Northern Metropolis, but also reflects our proactive bridging role, working hand in hand with the government, the Park, industry, academia and research institutions to create fresh momentum for Hong Kong’s I&T sector and the economy through concrete actions.”

Ricky Kwong, Head of Fixed Network Engineering, HKT and CEO, Fiber Link Global, said, “Infrastructure‑led development and advance planning are essential to shaping the Northern Metropolis into a world-class I&T hub. As AI ushers in a new era of technological advancement, the rapid and seamless flow of data is critical to industrial upgrading and transformation. As a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s telecommunications sector, HKT will draw on its core network infrastructure to support ‘hard connectivity’ by continuing to provide high-capacity, ultra-low-latency, secure and reliable network services. In doing so, we will support Hong Kong’s development as an international I&T hub and drive high-quality economic development.”

Located in Building 8 of HSITP, HKT AI Exchange will connect Hong Kong’s major data centre clusters including the Sandy Ridge Data Facility Cluster, which is expected to commence its first phase of operations next year, through the high-speed, ultra-low-latency 3.2Tbps AI DCI Superhighway running on advanced hollow core fibre. This will support high-performance AI computing applications for universities, research institutions, and large enterprises. The HKT- ASTRI Joint R&D Lab, established in collaboration with the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), is also located at the same site, with the aim of accelerating the commercialisation and practical application of research outcomes in the Northern Metropolis.

Hashtag: #HKT

About HKT

Bill Deng, Founder and CEO of XTransfer, will join the management team at showcases and closed-door sessions in both cities, sharing views on AI risk control and operations, local-currency settlement in emerging markets and practical inclusive finance for SMEs. During the events, XTransfer will hold signing ceremonies for strategic cooperation with several international financial institutions, further extending its global clearing network.

A central focus will be XTransfer’s financial institution partnership model, which enables banks and payment institutions to participate as both co-builders and users. Partners can contribute local collection, payout and FX capabilities, while accessing services such as Pay-to-China, Local-Currency Collection and Local-Currency Payout through the XTransfer API.

Another focus will be XTransfer’s end-to-end local-currency settlement. In emerging markets, restricted access to foreign exchange can delay the settlement of legitimate trade payments. To address this, XTransfer has built an end-to-end B2B trade settlement network comparable to Visa and Mastercard, directly connecting paying and receiving banks. Paired with its pioneering local collection account service, it enables end-to-end local-currency settlement, a 24/7, fast, low-cost, and compliant option that lets buyers and sellers worldwide pay and receive trade funds in their respective local currencies. The service now covers nearly 60 countries and regions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, and North America, etc.

Today, XTransfer serves more than one million SMEs globally, with over US$60 billion in total payment volume in 2025, and is trusted by more than 170 global financial partners. Through its participation in Hong Kong and Singapore, XTransfer aims to deepen collaboration across the financial ecosystem and make cross-border payments more secure, efficient and accessible for trade businesses worldwide.
https://www.xtransfer.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtransfer.cn

Hashtag: #XTransfer #SFF #HKFW #HongKong #Singapore #Crossborder #Payment #SMEs #ASEAN

Fitness advocate Joe Wicks reduces sleep under expert observation; Bupa Hong Kong shares evidence-informed perspectives to help urban professionals navigate evening rest

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 October 2026 – In a fast-paced city where long working hours and late schedules are commonplace, achieving restorative sleep can often feel challenging. But what actually happens to our bodies, brains, and daily choices when sleep is sharply reduced?

In the Sleep episode of Bupa’s global video series Health or Hype, fitness advocate Joe Wicks took part in a challenge by reducing his sleep to approximately five hours per night over three consecutive days. Observed by sleep specialist Dr Sophie Bostock, the episode documents physiological and behavioural changes during this period, including a marked increase in daily screen time (surpassing 13.5 hours), increased emotional irritability, and pronounced cravings for refined carbohydrates. While individual responses vary, these observations help illustrate the importance of sleep for overall health and daily performance. Drawing on these observations, Bupa Hong Kong explores practical, evidence-informed perspectives to encourage sustainable rest and holistic wellbeing in high-pressure urban environments.

The Domino Effect: Screen Fatigue and Metabolic Disruptions
During the observed challenge, Joe experienced an increased inclination toward refined snacks and extended mobile phone usage throughout the late evening. This may closely reflect the daily experiences of busy urban professionals who habitually go to bed late or have irregular sleep schedules.

From a clinical perspective, Dr Lau Yue Young Geoffrey, Specialist in Family Medicine, explains that several physiological mechanisms are typically at play, “Deep restorative sleep plays an indispensable role in metabolic equilibrium. When sleep is curtailed, appetite-regulating hormones shift—leptin, which signals satiety, declines, while ghrelin, the hunger signal, increases. This hormonal imbalance predisposes individuals to seek quick-energy foods and refined carbohydrates to compensate for low daytime alertness.”

“At the same time, sleep deprivation places a significant drain on executive cognitive endurance,” Dr Lau adds. “As self-regulation reserves steadily decline across an intense workday, individuals become far more susceptible to late-night passive screen scrolling as an effortless, low-friction form of decompression.”

Reframing Rest: An Active Multiplier for Physical and Cognitive Performance
A key perspective highlighted by sleep specialist Dr Bostock is the role of sleep as an active enabler of human performance, rather than simply a passive reset back to baseline. During deep sleep, the brain actively consolidates memories and information to clear learning bandwidth for the following day, while the body carries out cellular and muscular repair.

To help urban professionals build sustainable evening recovery without rigid or unmanageable regimens, Bupa highlights several manageable lifestyle considerations:

• Morning Light Exposure: Spending 10 to 15 minutes outdoors in natural daylight during the morning commute helps calibrate the circadian clock, anchoring daytime alertness and promoting timely evening melatonin onset.
• Offloading Late-Night Thoughts: Working late keeps the mind active. Spending just a few minutes writing down tomorrow’s to-do list on paper allows the brain to commit thoughts to the page and release them before turning off the lights.
• Physiological Wind-Down: Gentle physical routines, such as stretching to relieve postural desk tension, slow breathing exercise, or traditional wellness rituals like acupressure at the “Peaceful Sleep” pressure point (located in the soft hollow directly behind each earlobe) can assist the body in transitioning toward nighttime relaxation.

Recognising Hong Kong’s dynamic pace, Bupa’s Health or Hype series seeks to unpack popular wellness topics with balanced, expert insights, supporting the community and organisations in fostering healthy, sustainable lifestyle habits.

The full Sleep episode of Health or Hype featuring Joe Wicks and Dr Sophie Bostock is available on YouTube: What happens when Joe Wicks drastically reduces his sleep? – Health or Hype Episode 4: Sleep – YouTube

Hashtag: #BupaHongKong #HealthorHype #HealthInsurance #SleepHealth #SleepDeprivation #HealthySleepHabits #WorkplaceWellness #EmployeeWellbeing

Bupa – A health insurance specialist

Connecting Overland Borders to 10 Road Trip Experiences Across Thailand

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 October 2026 – Crossing the border is never about passing a checkpoint; it marks the true beginning of discovering Thailand. Recognizing this potential, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) introduced the ‘Gateway to Thailand’ travel guide, inviting overland travelers to journey far beyond the entry gates along ten curated road trips connecting vibrant cities, iconic attractions, and local communities across the nation.

Gateway to Thailand was conceived after recognizing the vast potential of overland borders to drive regional travel, particularly for visitors from the Lao PDR and Malaysia who frequently travel in private vehicles. TAT developed these 10 road trips starting from key border crossings, highlighting memorable stops, activities, and local experiences to inspire travelers to explore a richer, more diverse Thai experience.

The moment travelers cross the border, the journey expands far beyond the entry gate. Every highway opens a path to new discovery, whether following the gentle bend of the Mekong through tranquil northern towns or venturing deep into the south to explore mist-shrouded mountain peaks and historic old streets. Along the way, travelers can savor timeless culinary traditions, connect with local communities, or lose themselves in landscapes that shift effortlessly from high mountain ridges to the sunlit shores of the Gulf and the Andaman Sea.

This represents the core philosophy of Gateway to Thailand: transforming transit routes into scenic travel corridors and converting border checkpoints into gateways to unforgettable experiences.

The Gateway to Thailand guidebook covers 9 border crossings: Nong Khai, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Bueng Kan, Chong Mek, Sadao, Wang Prachan, Betong, and Su-ngai Kolok. These entry points connect travel destinations across 19 provinces through 10 distinct road trip routes that highlight local identity across nature, culture, faith, gastronomy, history, community living, and outdoor adventures.

10 Routes, 10 Experiences: From the Border into Thailand

• Route 1
  Nong Khai | Riverside Slow, City Flow: A journey along the Mekong River, capturing the peaceful rhythm, faith, and charm of upper Isan towns.
• Route 2
  Bueng Kan | Beyond the Green, Into Naga’s Realm: A journey through majestic cliff sides, dense forests, adventure pursuits, and sacred Naga folklore of Phu Wua.
• Route 3
  Nakhon Phanom | Traces of Indochina: A route highlighting natural indigo crafts, spiritual heritage, and multicultural memories along the Mekong River.
• Route 4
  Chong Mek, Ubon Ratchathani | Where Cliffs Meet the Mekong: A journey through Pha Taem, Sam Phan Bok, and the timeless rhythms of a riverside community carved by wind and water.
• Route 5
  Mukdahan | From Mythology to Deep Time Discovery: A journey to uncover pre-historic geology, river legends, untouched wilderness, and the colorful living culture of Isan.
• Route 6
  Sadao, Songkhla | Food Trail in Creative District: A culinary and cultural exploration through historic architecture, creative art districts, and rich local food traditions.
• Route 7
  Sadao, Songkhla | A Journey Along the Gulf: A scenic route along the Gulf of Thailand blending coastal nature, old towns, living culture, and faith.
• Route 8
  Betong, Yala | Where the Mist Begins: A journey into a mountain town famous for morning mists, vibrant flora, cool climate, and unique local heritage.
• Route 9
  Wang Prachan, Satun | Across the Andaman Isles: A coastal road trip leading to seaside fishing communities and island-hopping adventures across the Andaman.
• Route 10
  Su-ngai Kolok, Narathiwat | At the Kingdom’s Edge: Nature’s Grace and Cultural Jewels: An invitation to discover cultural heritage, lush rainforests, community wisdom, and local experiences in the southern border provinces.

These 10 routes are designed to encourage travelers to pause, explore, connect, and spend meaningful time with communities along the way, proving that the true magic of a road trip lies in every story discovered between destinations.

To facilitate seamless trip planning, the Gateway to Thailand guidebook compiles route maps, recommended stops, activities, and key attractions tailored for self-drive travelers. The publication is available as a printed guidebook in Thai and English, alongside digital e-books offered in 5 languages: Thai, English, Malay, Chinese, and Lao.

TAT is promoting these itineraries across both online and offline platforms, collaborating with travel bloggers and influencers to transform these guidebooks into real-world travel inspiration that distributes tourism revenue into local communities across Thailand.

For Gateway to Thailand, crossing the border is the very first door opening to countless stories waiting to be discovered across Thailand.

Detailed route itineraries, recommended stops, and activity guides are available at https://tourismproduct.tourismthailand.org/en/database/ebook/gateway-to-thailand

Hashtag: #TheTourismAuthorityofThailand #TAT

Modern travel patterns have shown a stronger reliance on digital platforms, a rise in independent trip planning and a wider age range of travellers seeking coverage. Travel SafeGuard is designed around these trends, with new features that respond to practical issues faced by today’s travellers, including:

• Online Purchase Protection — protects against losses arising from fraudulent online travel transactions made with debit or credit cards or digital wallets.
• WhatsApp Emergency Assistance — provides a direct communication channel for assistance when abroad.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) — included as an option for follow-up treatment in Malaysia after returning from a trip.
• Golf Benefit Add-On — covers losses to golf equipment, pre-paid green fees and recognises hole-in-one achievements.

Travel SafeGuard also provides medical coverage of up to RM500,000, trip cancellation and delay compensation, baggage loss benefits, and worldwide emergency assistance.

This travel insurance solution offers flexible coverage options for travellers across different age groups. The Travel Shield and Travel Max plans cater to a broad range of travellers, providing coverage for individuals from as young as 15 days old up to the maximum eligible age, which has been extended to 80 years old. The Golden Joy Plan is tailored for senior travellers aged 65 to 80 years old and offers a more affordable premium option for this segment. Together, these plans provide comprehensive protection for families, frequent travellers and retirees, allowing them to choose the coverage that best suits their travel needs and enjoy peace of mind when exploring new destinations.

Travel SafeGuard is available through MSIG Insurance Advisers and other platforms where MSIG insurance products are offered. Meanwhile, travellers who prefer to purchase insurance online may consider EZ Travel SafeGuard, which is available on MSIG Online. Designed with affordability in mind, EZ Travel SafeGuard offers essential travel protection with selected benefit limits, providing a more cost-effective alternative to Travel SafeGuard. It also offers the Travel Lite Plan, which is specially designed for young, budget-conscious travellers seeking basic coverage and value-for-money protection.

Customers may tailor Travel SafeGuard and EZ Travel SafeGuard to their needs by selecting optional add-on for an additional premium. Pet owners, for example, may consider the Pet Benefit Add-On, which helps cover additional pet boarding costs for up to five days when an unexpected travel delay of more than eight hours affects the scheduled collection of a cat or dog. Cruise travellers may consider the Cruise Benefit Add-On, which covers specified losses arising from missed connections, excursion disruptions or cancellations caused by illness, strikes or natural disasters.

“Travel SafeGuard and EZ Travel SafeGuard represent MSIG’s continued commitment to making travel insurance smarter and more relevant,” said Ms. Ang Yien Chia, Chief Executive Officer of MSIG Malaysia. “As the way people travel continues to change, travel insurance needs to keep pace, while giving customers the flexibility to choose protection that suits the way they travel. Whether travelling independently, with family or later in life, we want Malaysians to have practical and accessible protection that gives them greater confidence to explore the world.”

As part of the global Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., Ltd. network under the MS&AD Insurance Group — one of the world’s largest general insurance groups — MSIG Malaysia continues to uphold its promise of providing reliable, customer-focused solutions to meet the needs of Malaysians at home and abroad.

Hashtag: #MSIG

About MSIG Insurance (Malaysia) Bhd

Transport Expo Asia Awards 2026 – Congratulations To All Our Winners

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 October 2026 – Transport Expo Asia – hosted by the Ministry of Transport Malaysia and organised by Alpine Integrated Solution – is the only event of its kind in the world to feature all sectors of Land, Rail, Aviation, Maritime, and Logistics participating under one umbrella. 410 participating companies from 23 nations took part in the 2026 edition.

The inaugural edition of the Transport Expo Asia (TXA) Awards 2026 took place 22 October 2026, at Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at Midtown, capping off the Transport Expo Asia exhibition held on 20 to 22 October 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). The Awards was curated by The IBR Asia Group.

With an Oscar style flourish, the winners were revealed as follows:

• BEST LOGISTICS OPERATOR: Swift Haulage Berhad, accepted by Loo Yong Hui, Group Chief Executive Officer. “This award is a pleasant surprise, and also one especially sweet because we just celebrated our 15^th anniversary. It’s a validation of our efforts to get to where we are today.”

• BEST PORT OPERATOR: Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) Sdn Bhd, with Johor Port Authority, accepted by Mark William Hardiman, Chief Executive Officer, alongside Dr. Siti Noraishah Azizan, General Manager of Johor Port Authority. “I think it has been a fantastic collaborative effort between regulator and operator to take PTP to the next level. I want to thank our stakeholders for the support, allowing us to grow as fast as we have, helping us become the fastest growing container port in the past three years.”

• BEST SHIPPING OPERATOR: MTT Shipping and Logistics Berhad, accepted by Ooi Lean Hin, Managing Director. “Of course, I’d like to say thank you to our Minister, YB Loke Siew Fook, and for the ministry for organising this event, and the panel of judges for choosing us. This award belongs to team MTT. We are a fairly young company since we established in December 2010, and it has been an amazing journey as we hope to continue to play a part in connecting Malaysia to the world.”

• BEST LAND OPERATOR: Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd, accepted by Datin Noormah Mohd Noor, Chief Executive Officer. “This is a great honour for ERL, and we’d love to give our heartfelt appreciation to the Ministry of Transport, and the TXA Awards organising committee. This award is a testament to the dedication of our hardworking staff and team. It will inspire us to continue giving better service, and to do our part for the future of the rail industry.”

• EXCELLENCE IN ROAD SAFETY SOLUTIONS: Pertubuhan Keselamatan Sosial (PERKESO), accepted by Dr. Azlan Darus, Head of Prevention, Medical and Rehabilitation Division. “When we launched Ops Cegah, we hoped to play a more active role in tackling accident risks. This award is recognition of our drive, to one day achieve a zero-accident rate.”

• ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE IN TRANSPORT: Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd, accepted by Dato’ Sri Darwis Abdul Razak, Chief Executive Officer. “I am thankful to accept this award on behalf of the large family of East Coast Rail Link Sdn Bhd. ECRL has been one of the most challenging projects that has been done in Malaysia yet, and this would not have been possible without the team. I hope to see the results of our efforts when ECRL officially begins service in December 2026.”

• SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR: Railway Assets Corporation, accepted by Dato’ Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer. “I would like to accept this award with humility, and dedicate this award to my team. To me, leadership is not measured by the assets we own, but by the value we create for Malaysia, and the rakyat.”

• TRANSPORT INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR: Penang Port Commission, accepted by Dato’ V. Vijayaindiaran, General Manager. “Digitalisation is the way forward, and is how we can innovate and get ourselves moving for the industry as a whole. To the team, this award is for us.”

• MINISTER’S LAUREATE FOR NATIONAL TRANSPORT LEADERSHIP: Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd, accepted by Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim, Chief Executive Officer. “We have always pushed each other to work faster, to ensure we deliver even during times we weren’t sure of ourselves. With this award, I am humbled and thankful to the ministry, our stakeholders, and of course my team, for getting us this far.”

The TXA Awards is Malaysia’s national transport recognition programme, highlighting organisations who have contributed towards the advancement of the country’s transport ecosystem. Its inaugural edition has been a success, showcasing the depth and breadth of achievements made by all its industry players.

“Safety, innovation, sustainability and connectivity: these priorities are interconnected. I encourage everyone to continue pushing boundaries, challenging conventional approaches and pursuing higher standards,” said YB Loke Siew Fook, the Minister of Transport, Malaysia. “By aligning our efforts, we can strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness, deepen out regional connectivity and build a transport ecosystem that is resilient, inclusive and ready for the future.”

Hashtag: #TXAAwards2026

Transport Expo Asia Awards

Transport Expo Asia

Launched in 2025, Transport Expo Asia (TXA) is hosted by the Ministry of Transport Malaysia as Malaysia’s premier platform for next-generation transportation and supply chain innovation. Featuring high-level platforms, exhibition zones and ministerial sessions, it brings together government leaders, innovators, and industry pioneers to drive transformation in logistics, mobility, and infrastructure.

The annual event highlights Hualien’s two premier hot spring districts: Ruisui Hot Spring, famous for its iron-rich golden mineral waters known as the “Hero Spring,” and Antong Hot Spring, celebrated for its crystal-clear, skin-smoothing waters known as the “Beauty Spring.”

To enhance the international visitor experience, the event features stunning seasonal light installations, interactive AR stamp-collecting games, and special themed weekend events. Travelers can also easily access the region using convenient shuttle bus services linking major transport hubs and scenic attractions.

Hualien warmly invites global tourists to embrace the soothing healing power, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural hospitality of its autumn and winter hot spring getaway. For more details, please visit the official event website https://hotspring.hl.gov.tw/

Wins Merit Award at the 12th Hong Kong Value Creation for Technology Awards

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 October 2026 – NineSmart, Hong Kong PropTech enterprise, presented its AI-Powered Work Order Management Solution at the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) in October 2026. The company demonstrated how AI and IoT technologies can inject automation into property management operations.

Recognized with Merit Award at Hong Kong Value Creation for Technology Awards

During the exhibition, NineSmart participated in the 12th Hong Kong Value Creation for Technology Awards held concurrently and was honored with the Merit Award. Jointly organized by the Angel Investment Foundation and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the competition aims to recognize startups that combine innovative technology with strong commercial viability and high investment potential.

Mr. Sing Wong, Business Director of NineSmart, presented the company’s “Smart Property” management solution to the judging panel, highlighting how it effectively addresses key industry pain points to earn this distinction.

Reshaping Property Management Workflows with AI

Traditional property management teams often rely heavily on manual reporting, task assignment, and cross-departmental coordination when handling complex daily operations, routine inspections, and facility maintenance, such as equipment breakdowns or water seepage, which significantly undermines overall response and operational efficiency.

NineSmart’s AI-Powered Work Order Management Solution integrates IoT, Intelligent video analytics, and an AI Voice Assistant to fully digitize and automate complex dispatching and record-keeping workflows. Accessible via a mobile app and cloud-based management platform, the solution seamlessly connects the entire lifecycle — from incident reporting, task allocation, and progress tracking to completion records. This significantly improves cross-departmental collaboration, drastically shortens response times, and enhances overall transparency in facility maintenance management.

End-to-End A Automation: From Incident Detection to Task Completion

Covering the full lifecycle of daily property operations and estate management, key features include:

• Multi-Channel Smart Work Order Creation: In addition to manual creation by property management teams and frontline staff, the system integrates with CCTV cameras and IoT sensors to automatically trigger and generate work orders upon detecting anomalies.

• AI Automatic Recognition & Precise Allocation: Once backend AI identifies an issue, it instantly generates a work order and pushes notifications to relevant technicians or staff via the mobile app for immediate action.

• Hands-Free Reporting via AI Voice Assistant: Frontline security and engineering personnel can create work orders or update task statuses simply using voice commands. The system converts speech to text in real time and extracts critical information, eliminating tedious manual entry and boosting productivity.

• Cloud-Based Tracking & Complete Visibility: Frontline workers update task progress and submit reports in real time via the mobile app, while management can easily monitor overall status across a centralized cloud platform to ensure every incident is properly handled.

Furthermore, the solution integrates an Emergency Alert System (EAS) with multi-tier notifications via app pushes, SMS and voice broadcasts. During critical incidents, it alerts maintenance personnel to carry out urgent repairs and simultaneously sends safety notices to stakeholders.
https://ninesmart.io/

Hashtag: #NineSmart #PropertyTechnology #SmartProperty #AIWorkOrderManagement #HKElectronicFair #HKValueCreationforTechnologyAwards

About NineSmart

A systematic review published in Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education in April 2026 examined 81 studies on “feedback literacy” published between 2012 and 2025. It found that the concept has evolved beyond simply receiving comments from lecturers to encompass students’ ability to interpret, evaluate and act on feedback. The review also found that approaches involving repeated practice, dialogue and reflection produced the most consistent improvements.

Against this backdrop, SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is highlighting why students should look beyond the grade itself and learn to use assessment feedback as part of their development as independent learners.

Feedback is becoming part of the learning process, not simply the end of it

A grade provides an indication of how an assignment or examination has been assessed. Feedback can serve a different purpose. Helping students understand what was effective, where their work could improve and how lessons from one assessment might be carried into the next. The concept of feedback literacy was developed prominently by education researchers David Carless and David Boud, who describe it as the capabilities needed to make sense of information and use it to improve work or learning strategies.

Their framework identifies four interconnected elements namely appreciating the value of feedback, making judgements about the quality of work, managing emotional responses to criticism and taking action. This shifts feedback from something students simply receive towards something they have to learn how to use.

For university students, that distinction matters because assessment becomes increasingly varied. Essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations can test different capabilities, and a weakness identified in one piece of work may reappear if students focus only on the final mark rather than the reasons behind it.

A disappointing result can become useful information

Receiving a lower grade than expected can be discouraging, particularly when considerable effort has gone into an assessment. However, feedback literacy research suggests that managing the emotional response to feedback is itself part of learning how to use it effectively. The next step is to determine what the feedback reveals about the work and what can realistically be changed.

For example, a student may discover that the issue is not simply a lack of subject knowledge. The weakness could instead lie in developing an argument, supporting claims with evidence, structuring an essay, applying concepts or communicating ideas more clearly. Recognising that distinction can change how a student prepares for the next assessment. Rather than responding to a disappointing result simply by studying for longer, students can focus on the particular capabilities that need improvement.

University students also need to learn how to interpret feedback

Not all feedback is immediately actionable. Comments such as “develop the analysis”, “strengthen the argument” or “engage more critically with the evidence” require students to understand what stronger academic work actually looks like. This means learning from feedback involves judgement as much as receiving advice. The 2026 systematic review found that feedback literacy is increasingly viewed as multidimensional and context-dependent, with students needing opportunities to interpret feedback, discuss it, reflect on it and apply it over time.

At SIM GE, Learning Development provides enrolled students with resources and workshops that support areas such as academic writing, critical thinking, reading and learning strategies. Students can also approach the Student Learning Centre for guidance on essay writing and techniques for working on assignments. These resources provide students with opportunities to strengthen the underlying academic skills that may be identified through assessment and feedback, helping them translate comments on one piece of work into improvements in subsequent assignments. Together, these approaches reinforce the idea that academic development does not stop when an assessment is returned.

AI makes the ability to judge feedback more important

The rise of generative AI adds another dimension to the issue. Students can now receive explanations, suggestions and automated feedback from digital tools almost instantly. But greater access to feedback does not necessarily mean that all feedback is accurate, relevant or appropriate for a particular assignment.

Students therefore increasingly need to evaluate the quality of the information they receive rather than accepting it automatically. This distinction has also surfaced in SIM’s discussions about AI-enabled education. During a 2025 academic sharing session with educators from the National Institute of Education, SIM noted that while generative AI offers potential for personalised learning and automated feedback, students continued to value human guidance in understanding where their reasoning had gone wrong and where it was sound. The implication is that AI may make feedback more readily available, but it does not remove the need for students to exercise judgement. In fact, it may make that capability more important.

Learning from feedback extends beyond university

Feedback literacy also has relevance beyond academic assessment. Graduates entering the workplace will encounter feedback from managers, colleagues, clients and other stakeholders. They may need to evaluate criticism, separate useful information from opinion, adjust their work and demonstrate improvement over time. Carless and Boud’s framework therefore positions feedback literacy not simply as an assessment technique, but as a capability that supports learning and improvement.

For SIM GE, developing independent learners involves helping students move beyond viewing grades as the final outcome of an assessment. Academic performance remains important, but every assessment can also generate information about what a student understands, where gaps remain and what could be approached differently next time.

In an environment where students have access to more information and more automated feedback than before, the ability to interpret, question and act on feedback may increasingly matter as much as receiving it in the first place.

References

1. Lei, W. and Lei, Z. (2026), “A systematic review of feedback literacy in higher education: concepts, measurement, and interventions” – https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02602938.2026.2656285
2. Carless, D. and Boud, D. (2018), “The development of student feedback literacy: enabling uptake of feedback” – https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02602938.2018.1463354
3. SIM Global Education Learning Support – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/learning-support
4. Little, T., Dawson, P., Boud, D. & Tai, J. (2024), “Can students’ feedback literacy be improved – https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02602938.2023.2177613
5. SIM “AI in Education: Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and the Human Touch” – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/insights-nie-pays-acad-a-visit

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

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

About SIM Global Education

Source: The KaRs

28 October 2026

What happens when you ask The KaRs to tackle a big word like resilience? You get laughter, music, movement — and a powerful message for tamariki about growing, learning and standing strong together.

Aotearoa’s musical duo The KaRs — Kane Parsons and Regan Taylor — have released two new music videos, “Bing, Bang, Bong!” and “Resilience”, from their upcoming album He Kākano — Seeds of Resilience.

Supported by NZ On Air Tamariki, the new releases bring together music, humour, and positive messages to help children explore resilience in ways that are engaging, accessible and fun.

Bing, Bang, Bong!—learning through music and movement

The playful “Bing, Bang, Bong!” invites tamariki to join in, move their bodies, and discover the joy of making music together. And that when you fall down, you get back up again.

Watch “Bing, Bang, Bong!”:
https://youtu.be/wUC5Zz0S4ZU

Resilience — a BIG word with an even BIGGER message

Resilience can be a tricky word to spell—and even trickier to explain to children. The KaRs bring their signature musical storytelling to the challenge, helping tamariki explore what it means to keep going, learn from challenges, support one another, and learn to spell at the same time.

Watch “Resilience”:
https://youtu.be/recg5P7brKY

About The KaRs

The KaRs are an award-winning children’s music duo consisting of Kane Parsons and Regan Taylor. Through music, books, videos, and live performances, they create educational content that encourages children to learn, explore, and celebrate diversity through creative experiences.

Growing strong, together

He Kākano — Seeds of Resilience celebrates the idea that every child is a seed with the potential to grow. Through music, movement, humour and storytelling, The KaRs create opportunities for tamariki and whānau to connect, participate and explore themes of wellbeing, identity and belonging.

Known for their playful performances and multilingual approach, The KaRs celebrate the richness of Aotearoa’s diverse communities. Their work brings people together through music, with a focus on creating experiences that children can enjoy at home, in early learning settings and in classrooms.

The two new videos are part of the upcoming He Kākano — Seeds of Resilience album, continuing The KaRs’ commitment to making music that entertains while supporting positive connections and learning for young audiences.

The KaRs acknowledge NZ On Air Tamariki for supporting the project and helping bring these new music videos to audiences across Aotearoa.

Deepening Localization: Manufacturing Strength in Focus

Localization remains central to BAIC FOTON’s global development. As a key manufacturing base in Africa, the BAIC South Africa Plant strengthens regional production capabilities and market responsiveness.

During the conference, guests will tour the plant to gain firsthand insights into localized manufacturing and operational achievements. The BAIC FOTON Africa Regional Training Center will also be officially unveiled, supporting product technology training, talent development and service capabilities to further strengthen regional operations.

Product Innovation: New Launches and Dynamic Experiences

Addressing Africa’s diverse transportation needs, BAIC FOTON will introduce its latest commercial vehicle lineup. The GALAXUS R5 and C5 heavy trucks will officially launch in Africa, while the TUNLAND PHEV pickup will make its South African debut, offering more choices for different transport scenarios.

Beyond product launches, the conference will feature static displays of medium- and heavy-duty trucks, light commercial vehicles, pickups and vans. Drift performances and test drives will provide immersive opportunities to experience vehicle power, comfort and handling, bringing product innovation to life.

Strengthening Partnerships: Advancing Together in Africa

The conference will facilitate discussions on regional development strategies, market expansion and partner collaboration. Strategic cooperation initiatives and customer vehicle deliveries will further reinforce relationships with African partners.

With growing localized manufacturing capabilities, an expanding product portfolio and stronger service support, BAIC FOTON continues to build a foundation for sustainable development in Africa while exploring new opportunities alongside its partners.

On October 29, the BAIC FOTON Africa Partners Conference will open in South Africa. Stay tuned for more highlights.

Hashtag: #BAICFOTON

HKSTP Brings Together Over 250 Greentech Companies: “World-Leading” R&D Steps into Daily Life and Industrial Applications

Among the participating companies in HKSTP Pavilion, nine are making their debut at Eco Expo Asia, bringing technologies in fields such as new energy, battery materials, energy storage, EV charging and retrofitting, and waste-to-energy conversion.

In full alignment with the Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong’s first Five-Year Plan, and the Policy Address, HKSTP is dedicated to developing Hong Kong into an international I&T hub. Strategically positioning greentech as one of its four focus areas, HKSTP has built a vibrant green technology ecosystem and gathering over 250 greentech companies. Using the expo as a platform, HKSTP helps participating companies connect with government departments, corporate clients, investors, and partners to explore market expansion opportunities.

HKSTP Pavilion at Eco Expo Asia 2026
HKSTP Booth: 3-E02

Highlighted innovations:

World’s Thinnest and Fastest EV “Ultra Charging” Tech Targets Heavy Transport Electrification
Addressing Hong Kong’s scarce land availability and the high charging demands of heavy EVs, TriTerra Technology developed the world’s thinnest wall-mounted DC ultra-fast charging system. At just 16 cm thick with a single-gun-output of 350 kW, it has already debuted at a Tung Chung hotel project. TriTerra also showcased the world’s fastest liquid-cooled supercharger. Delivering up to 3000 kW through a single connector continuously, this megawatt-level “Ultra Charging” system is engineered for heavy vehicles like container trucks and is certified by national testing entity (CVC Testing Technology Co., Ltd.).

Giving Classic Vintage Cars an Electric “Heart”: Exploring New Directions in Automotive Reuse
To reduce scrapped vehicle emissions and preserve classic car models, Refined Motor has developed a road-legal modular electric vehicle conversion technology—the world’s only modular system holding EU R100 battery safety certification and electromagnetic compatibility certification. Converted vehicles can be legally registered and driven in over 50 countries and regions worldwide. Refined Motor is showcasing a successfully converted 1990 classic Rover Mini at the pavilion (alongside other success cases like the 1994 Bentley Turbo, 1989 BMW E30, and 2007 Land Rover Defender). Retaining the classic appearance while incorporating air conditioning and power steering, it features a pioneering dedicated mobile app that allows owners to remotely control door locks, windows, pre-cool the air conditioning, and monitor charging status just like driving a modern smart EV. This solution is also suitable for commercial fleet upgrades and garage partnerships, exploring sustainable transportation models that extend existing vehicle lifespans and minimize resource waste.

AI-Powered Smart Energy Storage System
Leyden Power International Limited (Leyden Power) specializes in intelligent battery energy storage systems and integrated energy solutions, combining storage hardware & software, AI-powered energy solutions, and project delivery services. Its core Navy Series mobile storage products serve commercial and industrial users, data centers, construction sites, and temporary power applications through diesel generator replacement or hybrid operation, load management, and multi-source energy coordination. The company has expertise in liquid-cooled system integration and remote operations and maintenance, and participates in Hong Kong collaborations involving solar power, energy storage, charging, and virtual power plants.

Industry-First High-Speed Sodium-Battery Electric Bike and Automotive Start-Stop Battery: Exploring Energy Storage Choices Beyond Lithium
Facing the challenges of lithium resource shortages and high costs, CNAE China Company Limited utilizes abundant, lower-cost, eco-friendly, and non-toxic sodium resources to showcase the industry’s first high-speed sodium-battery electric bike, alongside the CNAE Power S95 sodium-ion automotive start-stop battery series (12V/30Ah/630CCA) designed for frequent vehicle start-stop conditions. Featuring superior temperature adaptability, the battery technology maintains high capacity and stable power output even in extreme heat and -20°C freezing conditions. The battery also supports ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% charge in just 10 minutes, demonstrating the application potential of novel batteries in daily transportation.

Rethinking Wind Energy: 100% Recyclable Aluminium Turbines
Yuan Da He Fa Energy Technology Group Limited showcased its new aluminium wind turbine, engineered to address two major pain points of traditional fibreglass blades. The aluminium blades are fully recyclable, resolving the end-of-life recycling challenge, while the split-type blade structure enables transport in standard 40-foot containers, overcoming the bottleneck of oversized blade logistics. Paired with the company’s self-developed self-climbing crane technology, the design also supports the construction of ultra-high towers to capture high-quality wind resources at altitude.

Appendix: 11 Participating Park Companies at HKSTP Pavilion, Eco Expo Asia 2026

Solution Category: New Energy

1. AEL (International Holdings) Limited
2. Green Vigor Limited
3. Orbit Biotechnology Limited
4. Sunlight Eco-Tech Limited
5. Yuan Da He Fa Energy Technology Group Limited

Energy Storage Systems & Innovative Applications

1. CNAE China Company Limited
2. Gotion High-Tech (HK) Limited
3. GreenSeed Power Limited
4. Leyden Power International Limited
5. Refined Motor Company Limited
6. TriTerra Technology Limited

Additional GreenTech park companies exhibiting at Eco Expo Asia 2026

1. Achelous Pure Metal Company Limited
2. afterNATURE Limited
3. AirDefender International Company Limited
4. ChinaTec
5. Dunwell Engineering
6. Green AI Technology Limited
7. Lihe Technology
8. Locolla Limited
9. Logistics and Supply Chain Multitech R&D Centre Limited
10. Luquos
11. NerOcean Limited
12. Open Ocean Engineering Limited
13. Stellerus Technology Limited

Hashtag: #HKSTP

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation