Thousands of people descended onto the grounds at Waitangi today for one of the biggest events of the year.
With no major issues and no arrests made, Police are pleased with the proceedings of Waitangi Day 2025.
Northland District Prevention Manager, Inspector Dean Robinson, says there was a large turnout of attendees at this morning’s dawn service and other activities throughout the day.
“It’s been a beautiful day, filled with people from near and far all coming together to commemorate this occasion.
“We worked closely with iwi, the Waitangi National Trust and the community to ensure this was a safe and enjoyable day for the public.”
Inspector Robinson says the atmosphere was relaxed and respectful.
“It was great to see so many people celebrating with whānau and enjoying their time at Waitangi.”
Waitangi Ltd Chief Executive, Ben Dalton, says the day was filled with people in good spirits.
“It’s been yet another beautiful Waitangi Day and we are grateful to everyone who came to mark this moment with us.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported and assisted in making this another successful day for everyone to enjoy.”
Global Partners and Distributors Recognized for Outstanding Contributions to Cybersecurity
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 – SonicWall proudly honored its exceptional partners and distributors at the annual SonicWall Partner Awards, celebrating their unwavering commitment to safeguarding customers in a dynamic and increasingly complex threat landscape. This prestigious award acknowledges partner organizations worldwide that have demonstrated remarkable dedication to delivering innovative cybersecurity solutions.
“While partners have been key to SonicWall’s success for over 30 years, our dramatic transformation over the last two years is directly attributable to SonicWall stepping it up and taking a relentless focus on our valued partners, said SonicWall CEO and President Bob VanKirk. “That’s meant listening to and acting upon their key needs and feedback, which has in turn shaped our roadmaps (organic and inorganic), the delivery of technical support (reduced wait times with immediate access to higher tiers of support), how we charge for our products and services, sales resource alignment, and much, much more. Many of our partners posted record years in 2024, and we couldn’t be more pleased about that. These awards are a small token of thanks and recognition of the strategic value SonicWall’s partners have and will continue to play in shaping and driving SonicWall’s business.”
“The 2025 SonicWall Partner Awards celebrate the outstanding dedication and innovation of our partners who continually raise the bar in cybersecurity excellence. This year’s winners have demonstrated exceptional commitment to protecting businesses against the ever-evolving threat landscape, leveraging SonicWall’s solutions to deliver proactive, strategic security. Their success is a testament to the power of strong partnerships in driving growth, resilience, and trust in today’s digital world,” said SonicWall Vice President of Sales, APJ Debasish Mukherjee.
Partners were nominated across various categories in each region, showcasing their outstanding performance throughout the previous year. From a large pool of nominees, SonicWall selected one partner per region in each category, highlighting their consistent excellence and exceptional service. Based on a matrix of criteria including but not limited highest revenue, partner count, highest growth, etc.
SonicWall is excited to announce the following winners for the Asia, Pacific & Japan:
Distributor of the Year – ANZ
DICKER DATA AUSTRALIA
Partner of the Year – ANZ
VIRTUAL GRAFFITI AUSTRALIA
Enterprise Partner of the Year – ANZ
DYNATEK SOLUTIONS PTY LTD
Newcomer of the Year – ANZ
COM-X PTY LTD
Partner Sales Hero of the Year – ANZ
MARK WHITTINGTON – OZDOC SOLUTIONS PARTNERSHIP
Distributor of the Year – ASEAN
MEC NETWORKS CORPORATION
Partner of the Year – ASEAN
PENTECH SOLUTION SDN BHD
Enterprise Partner of the Year – ASEAN
ACCENT MICRO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Managed Security Partner of the Year – ASEAN
PT MAXINDO MITRA SOLUSI
Newcomer of the Year – ASEAN
ST ENGINEERING UNMANNED AND INTEGRATED SYSTEMS PTE LTD
Partner Sales Hero of the Year – ASEAN
SIVA ANNADURAI – XCESS NETWORKS MALAYSIA SDN BHD
Distributor of the Year – GCR
DATA WORLD COMPUTER & COMMUNICATIONS LTD
Partner of the Year – GCR
NANJING YINQIANG INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
Enterprise Partner of the Year – GCR
IT CHECK SOLUTIONS, INC
Newcomer of the Year – GCR
SHIH CHIANG LTD
Partner Sales Hero of the Year – GCR
CARY WU – SHENZHEN SECUUNION INFO-TECH
Distributor of the Year – INDIA & SAARC
INFLOW TECHNOLOGIES PVT. LTD
Partner of the Year – INDIA & SAARC
eCAPS
Partner of the Year – INDIA & SAARC
UNITED CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED
Enterprise Partner of the Year – INDIA & SAARC
SAFEZONE SECURE SOLUTIONS PRIVATE LIMITED
Newcomer of the Year – INDIA & SAARC
VS SQUARE INFO SOLUTIONS
Partner Sales Hero of the Year – – INDIA & SAARC
PARAMALINGAM S – SAFEZONE SECURE SOLUTIONS
Distributor of the Year – JAPAN
MARUBENI INFORMATION SYSTEMS CO.,LTD.
Partner of the Year – JAPAN
NIHON ICS CO.,LTD.
Newcomer of the Year – JAPAN
KOKUSAI JOHO NET
Partner Sales Hero of the Year – JAPAN
KYOYA SAKAKIBARA – NEC FIELDING, LTD.
Partner Technical Hero of the Year – JAPAN
TOMOYUKI TOKIAN – TANAKA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.
Distributor of the Year – KOREA
SECUWIDE CORP.
Partner of the Year – KOREA
KICHANG INFOTECH INC.
Newcomer of the Year – KOREA
GODUNBIZ
Partner Sales Hero of the Year – KOREA
YEON DONGHO – CORE IT.CO.,LTD
To see all the winners, please visit: https://www.sonicwall.com/partnerawards.
SonicWall takes great pride in recognizing the contributions of its partners and distributors each year, acknowledging their vital role in protecting customers from evolving cyber threats. For more information about the Partner Awards, please visit: https://www.sonicwall.com/partnerawards.
Hashtag: #SonicWall
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Law Council of Australia is extremely disappointed in the Government’s proposal to impose mandatory sentencing in response to certain hate crimes and a broad range of terrorism offences.
“The Law Council has been gravely concerned by the recent incidents and acts of antisemitism that have occurred across the country. At the same time, it is vitally important in challenging times to uphold rule of law principles and not adopt measures that risk serious injustice,” Law Council of Australia President, Juliana Warner said.
“The Government’s amendments to the Criminal Code Amendment (Hate Crimes) Bill 2024 have introduced mandatory minimum sentences for certain hate crimes and terrorism offences. This would mean, for example, a person guilty of public display of prohibited symbols at a political protest would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 months imprisonment.
“Under mandatory sentencing, the personal circumstances of the offender are not taken into consideration. This has the potential to disproportionately impact vulnerable groups.”
Other elements of the amendments would see minimum sentences of six years imposed in relation to a broad range of terrorism offences. This would include the offence of getting funds to, from or for a terrorist organisation. Financing terrorism offences would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of three years.
“Mandatory sentencing laws are arbitrary and limit the individual’s right to a fair trial by preventing judges from imposing a just penalty based on the unique circumstances of each offence and offender,” Ms Warner said. “Judges are best placed to determine the appropriate and just penalty under these laws on an individual, case-by-case basis.
“The decision to add mandatory sentencing as part of the Government’s response to hate crimes has come late in the day without proper consideration. Further, the Australian Labor Party has gone against its 2023 National Platform that states Labor opposes mandatory sentencing. To our knowledge, no security or law enforcement agency has asked for these extraordinary measures.
“There has been no opportunity to scrutinise the rationale, necessity and proportionality of these changes, which comes as part of the Federal Government’s response to a rise in antisemitic incidents and deterioration in social cohesion.
“Australia is a multicultural society and we must preserve our social cohesion and protect against the specific harms of hateful speech on vulnerable groups. In doing so, we acknowledge the importance of carefully framed criminal laws proscribing speech to prevent radicalisation, violence and activities that incite hatred.
“However, expanding offences and strengthening penalties should not be seen as the default tool through which to prevent radicalism and extremism from propagating or to facilitate behavioural change of disaffected individuals. There should be greater resourcing for countering violent extremism through early intervention and diversionary programs with a specific focus on children and young people.
“We are also concerned the new offences contained in the Hate Crimes Bill have the potential to worsen existing uncertainty and inconsistency by piecemeal expansion of Commonwealth criminal offences.
“Complex and overlapping Commonwealth and state offences are more difficult to enforce and may lead to arbitrary differences in outcome. There is a risk that inconsistent penalties at Commonwealth level will have limited impact on the intended objectives and worsen complexity in this area. Further, overly broad offences may rely on discretion to enforce in circumstances which become politicised.
“Before we pursue changes to our laws, we must ensure gaps do indeed exist that require a legislative response and consult on proposals to ensure they are the best solution.
“As debate on the Bill moves through Parliament, the Law Council urges the Senate to ensure proper consideration by, and consultation with, our community before mandatory sentencing legislation is passed.”
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today announced the appointment of Terence Williams as head of Commercial Risk Solutions for Asia Pacific, effective April 2025.
Terence Williams
Williams will be based in Singapore and report to Joe Peiser, global CEO of Commercial Risk Solutions and Anne Corona, CEO of Asia Pacific. He will also join Aon’s Asia Pacific Executive Committee and Global Commercial Risk Leadership Team.
In this role, Williams will lead Aon’s commercial risk strategies and capability across the region to deliver differentiated risk solutions to help address evolving client risks.
Peiser said, “The risk landscape continues to become increasingly more connected and complex. Terence has the experience and strategic vision to further enhance our risk capabilities and drive innovative solutions to help shape better business decisions for clients in the region.”
Williams brings significant leadership and insurance expertise from his career spanning over two decades with Aon, most recently serving as chief broking officer for the EMEA region based in London. He previously held several senior roles at Aon including CEO, South Africa, chief broking officer, Sub Sahara Africa, and head of casualty, UK.
Corona added, “We are thrilled to welcome Terence to the Asia Pacific region. Terence is a proven people leader with the ability to develop talent and build high-performing teams. His leadership and industry acumen will be invaluable as we continue to drive growth and deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.”
Read more about Aon’s capabilities in Asia Pacific here.
Hashtag: #Aon
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HOHHOT, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 – At 57, Wang Fei is hailed as the “King of Sunflower Seeds” in his hometown of Bayannur, in northern China.
A farmer drives a harvester to harvest sunflower seeds in a field in Linhe District of Bayannur, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
The title reflects not only his passion for the crunchy snack but also his remarkable achievement in transforming locally grown sunflower kernels into a global commodity, with markets spanning the Republic of Korea, Egypt and Germany.
If you enjoy eating sunflower seeds, there’s a good chance they originated from the saline-alkali fields of Bayannur – China’s largest base for edible sunflower production. In 2024 alone, the region produced more than 940,000 tonnes of sunflowers, with exports spanning over 40 countries and regions.
Wang is one of the local farmers who have leveraged the booming sunflower industry to become a successful entrepreneur.
BOOMING INDUSTRY, CHALLENGING LAND
Located in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Bayannur was once burdened by nearly 4.8 million mu (320,000 hectares) of saline-alkali land, where traditional crops like wheat and corn struggled to grow.
The introduction of sunflowers in the 1970s marked a turning point for the city with a permanent population of 1.5 million.
With its distinct seasons, abundant sunshine, vast plains and ample water resources, Bayannur offered an environment strikingly similar to the sunflower’s native habitat in North America, making it an ideal setting for this resilient crop, according to Zhang Ruhong, vice mayor of Bayannur.
In the 1980s, Wang began cultivating sunflowers on his family’s saline-alkali land. “They are resistant to salt and alkali, drought-tolerant and easy to grow,” he said.
By 2024, Bayannur had expanded its sunflower planting area to 4.4 million mu, nearly half of the country’s total. The city’s sunflower industry has flourished into a comprehensive value chain, encompassing seed sales, cultivation, processing, exports, e-commerce logistics and even tourism.
Sunflowers are the world’s fourth-largest oilseed crop, following soybeans, rapeseed and peanuts, said Zhang Haiyang, an oilseed industry expert.
He noted that sunflowers have gained prominence as a key specialty oilseed crop in China, particularly in northern regions, thanks to their high nutritional and aesthetic value.
The sunflower seed market was valued at 32.3 billion U.S. dollars in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of around 9.4 percent between 2024 and 2032, according to Global Market Insights, a market research and management consulting firm.
To take Bayannur’s sunflower industry to new heights, local agricultural scientists have successfully introduced high-quality seed varieties, including SH361 and SH363, as well as a resistant strain specially designed to combat broomrape, a parasitic plant that has long plagued sunflower production globally.
TINY SEEDS, BIG JOURNEY
In the run-up to the Spring Festival, the factories of Bayannur buzzed with activity as machines roared and workers hustled to sort sunflower seeds for export.
“We were extremely busy before the holiday, as we wanted to complete and ship all orders abroad,” said Zhao Lei, general manager of Bayannur Rong Da Co., Ltd. “Our sunflower seeds have seen strong overseas demand last year, with exports reaching 35,000 tonnes.”
Across China, many regions have cultivated industries tailored to their unique local conditions. For instance, oranges from Ganzhou in Jiangxi Province and strawberries from Dandong in Liaoning Province have become key drivers of social and economic development.
Bayannur has also leveraged its local strengths, establishing 120 leading sunflower processing enterprises to seize market opportunities.
Wang Fei, who began trading sunflower seeds domestically in 1987, ventured into the international market in 2012. Last year, his company, Mintai Agricultural Trading Co., Ltd., recorded operating revenues exceeding 700 million yuan (about 97.63 million U.S. dollars), with exports making up the bulk.
“In China, people love eating sunflower seeds during festivals. Foreigners share this habit as well. Holidays like Christmas mark our peak export seasons,” Wang said, adding that the holiday economy strongly stimulates consumption.
Bayannur’s sunflower seeds and kernel products now reach over 40 countries and regions in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Europe, generating an annual export value of 4.2 billion yuan — 64 percent of the city’s total agricultural exports.
These achievements are underpinned by strong policy support. Over the past two years, Bayannur has implemented innovative strategies to promote exports, such as fostering leading companies to establish overseas warehouses, advancing cross-border e-commerce, and streamlining customs clearance processes.
Challenges like rising shipping costs, exacerbated by the Red Sea crisis, have also driven adaptability. Last year, Wang began shifting some shipments from sea to land transport, exporting sunflower seeds to Europe via China-Europe freight trains, significantly reducing costs.
“My goal this year is to expand my sunflower seed exports into the Spanish market,” he said with a smile.
Hashtag: #Bayannur
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 – 24/7 FITNESS, one of Hong Kong’s most renowned fitness brands, has officially debuted in Singapore with the opening of its flagship club on Orchard Road. This expansion follows the acquisition of local fitness chain GymmBoxx, marking 24/7 FITNESS’s commitment to providing accessible, world-class fitness solutions to Singaporeans. With plans to open 40 locations over the next three years, the brand is set to become a go-to destination for fitness enthusiasts.
24/7 FITNESS has officially debuted in Singapore with the opening of its flagship club on Orchard Road.
The 10,000-square-foot Orchard flagship club is Singapore’s largest 24/7 FITNESS facility and boasts state-of-the-art equipment from world-renowned brands. Offering advanced cardio machines and weight-training equipment, the gym is designed to meet the needs of all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. As a 24-hour gym, members can work out conveniently, enjoying unparalleled flexibility in their fitness schedules.
“Our goal is to redefine fitness accessibility in Singapore by providing world-class facilities and services at an affordable price,” said Ingrid Wong, CEO of 24/7 FITNESS. “By expanding to 40 locations over the next three years, 24/7 FITNESS is committed to becoming the fitness brand of choice for Singaporeans who prioritize their health and well-being.”
24/7 FITNESS has already opened 13 branches in strategic locations across Singapore, including popular spots like Ci Yuan Community Club, Keat Hong Community Club, The Seletar Mall, Margaret Market and Yew Tee MRT. Upcoming sites include prominent destinations such as The Cathay, Jalan Besar, Beauty World and Tampines North Community Club, ensuring that members across the island have easy access to 24/7 FITNESS’s world-class facilities.
24/7 FITNESS offers a transparent pricing model starting at just $98 per month, with no joining fees or prepayment required. This straightforward pricing ensures that members receive exceptional value without the hidden costs often associated with other gyms. With access to all 24/7 FITNESS locations across the Asia-Pacific region, members can enjoy flexibility and convenience wherever they go. For those seeking personalized guidance on their fitness journey, the gym has a team of dedicated personal trainers available to help customers achieve their goals.
24/7 FITNESS is also introducing cutting-edge technology with its Smart Face Recognition Terminal, allowing for seamless and secure access to all locations worldwide without the need for a physical key fob or card. This contactless entry system is ideal for those with busy schedules or traveling abroad, ensuring quick and easy access whenever needed. Additionally, the gym’s welcoming atmosphere, designed with a neutral color scheme and soothing Tiffany Blue accents, fosters a comfortable environment where members of all fitness levels can feel at ease and motivated to reach their goals.
Founded in Hong Kong, 24/7 FITNESS has rapidly grown to over 200 locations across the Asia-Pacific region, including Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, and Macau. Its entry into Singapore marks a significant milestone in the brand’s mission to make fitness accessible and affordable for all. As part of its commitment to the local community, 24/7 FITNESS aims to redefine the fitness experience in Singapore by combining convenience, technology, and value, ensuring that all Singaporeans can achieve their health and wellness goals.
For further details about 24/7 FITNESS clubs, please visit: https://bit.ly/3BzsHj9.
https://sg.247.fitness/
Hashtag: #247fitness
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
18-29 year olds significantly more optimistic and feel more financially prepared to confront the year compared to 40-49 year olds.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 – AIA Singapore today announced findings from the seventh edition of the AIA Live Better Study, which reflects the evolution of a society where more than 4 in 5 (83%) of Singapore residents plan to actively manage their finances amid concerns of a sluggish economy in 2025. The survey aims to uncover the aspirations and concerns of Singapore residents as they navigate these challenging times in the new year.
The study also found a stark contrast in the temperament and financial preparedness between two age groups. While more than half (54%) of those aged 18 – 29 feel financially prepared to tackle the challenging economic situation in 2025, only 34% of those aged 40 – 49, many of whom are taking care of their parents or kids, share similar sentiments.
Conducted in November 2024, the AIA Live Better Study[1] investigated the evolving financial, health, and wellness needs of Singapore consumers. Against expected muted economic growth in 2025[2], this year’s study explores the mindset and actions of Singapore citizens and PRs as they navigate these challenging times.
Unsurprisingly, only 47% of Singapore residents are optimistic about the economy. Inflation and cost of living (50%) remain the top economic concern amongst the population, followed by worries over job security (35%) and income levels (34%).
“Despite the expectation of challenging times, the people of Singapore are showing remarkable resilience and proactiveness. This reflects a maturing society which has a better understanding and appreciation of the value of planning early and planning well for their future and that of their loved ones, which is especially noteworthy as we celebrate Singapore’s 60th birthday this year,” said Irma Hadikusuma, Chief Marketing and Healthcare Officer at AIA Singapore.
“AIA Singapore is committed to supporting the community with compelling solutions, tools and resources needed to overcome today’s challenges and secure a prosperous future. Our mission is to help people live healthier, longer, better lives, ensuring financial and overall well-being,” she added.
Securing financial resilience: Insurance and investments take centerstage in long-term financial plans
Rather than wringing their hands in despair, Singapore residents are taking on a positive mindset with more than 1 in 2 (54%) indicating that financial readiness in the long-run is more important to them in 2025 compared to the previous year.
The top three priorities Singapore residents believe will help them achieve financial security are savings (62%), a stable income (57%), and to have emergency funds (52%). Notably, 1 in 2 (48%) Singapore residents also cited insurance as an important way to ensure financial stability, a positive indication of an increased understanding about the importance of insurance as part of long-term financial planning.
Looking ahead, Singapore residents have plans to uptake a myriad of long-term financial solutions to prepare against the volatile economy in 2025:
Approximately 3 in 5 (59%) Singapore residents are tightening their purse strings and planning to spend less on daily expenses or big-ticket purchases.
Singapore residents are making plans to build emergency funds (29%), plan for retirement (28%), and diversify investments (27%) to strengthen their long-term financial readiness.
Singapore residents are likely to see an increased uptake in endowment and investment plans as over a fifth of respondents intend to boost their expenditure towards insurance (22%) and investments (27%) in the coming year.
AIA Singapore offers a comprehensive range of compelling solutions designed to align with the unique aspirations of individuals and families, encouraging them to start their savings journey early. By leveraging the power of compounding interest, we help individuals and their families grow their investments for the long-term and secure a prosperous future. AIA insurance representatives are here to provide personalised guidance to help you make informed decisions about your financial well-being.
Balancing the budget in preparation for rising healthcare expenses
A substantial subset when it comes to Singapore’s cost of living is healthcare costs. Aligned with Health Minister Ong Ye Kung[3], the study noted that the increasing cost of healthcare is a key economic concern that must be addressed. Key insights include:
More than half (53%) of Singapore residents perceive healthcare costs to be expensive.
Yet, less than half (47%) feel financially prepared to manage these costs, calling for more support, financial and non-financial, by both the government and private sectors.
Singapore residents are taking matters into their own hands, planning to combat the potential high healthcare costs via insurance plans (57%), personal savings (56%) and government healthcare financing and support (49%).
A Generational Gap: 18 – 29 year olds are stressing and skimping less compared to their 40 – 49 year old counterparts
Many in their 40s are feeling the pressures of being in the sandwiched generation, and they are the most pessimistic about their outlook for 2025 across all demographics. This is in comparison to the more optimistic demographic of 18 – 29 year olds in Singapore.
Financial Priorities Shift with Age: From Experiences to Stability
Despite the nation’s overall sentiment, the younger generation (aged 18 – 29) are less stressed about the economy and are less likely to take steps towards financial preparedness. This is in contrast to Singapore residents in their 40s.
The younger generation is more optimistic (56%) about the economy than those in their 40s (38%),
They are less concerned about inflation and cost of living (34% compared to 63%).
Fewer 18-29 year olds strive to be debt and loan free (16%) compared to their older counterparts (28%).
Less than 2 in 5 (34%) younger adults foresee themselves cutting back on daily expenses and only 35% planning to reduce their budgets for big-ticket items.
In contrast, approximately 1 in 2 (47%) of those in their 40s will be cutting their daily spending and 45% will be reducing purchases of big-ticket items.
This could be attributed to their current phase in life – between completing their education and starting their working life – those between the ages of 18 and 29 are focused on experiencing the fun and joys of life[4].
Stresses on the Job Market
Having stable employment is important to all Singapore residents regardless of age. Approximately 1 in 2 (47%) of those aged between 18 and 29 years old, and approximately 3 in 5 (61%) of those in their 40s cited it as an increasingly important aspect of their overall wellness in 2025.
However, their likely approach to pre-empting a potential loss of job differs:
While the younger ones prioritise upskilling (40%) more than the older generation (28%),
The latter will focus on building their savings (55%) and setting aside emergency funds (46%).
Even the support that the two age groups require differs:
While 18 – 29 year olds find mental health and well-being support (40%) to be more important,
40 – 49 year olds would prefer more practical support in the form of job placements, career transition services (52%) and access to online training and upskilling programmes (47%).
The differing reactions and behaviours towards the economy underscore the stage of life that both groups are in. While the younger generation is still learning to live life and experience the joys that come with it, those in their 40s recognise the many responsibilities they have. While their approaches differ, both generations share the goal of securing a stable future in challenging times.
[1]The seventh wave of the AIA Live Better Study is anindependent study that was conducted from 29 November to 9 December 2024 with a sample size of 1,000 representing Singapore’s general population. [2]‘Economic trends to watch for Singapore in 2025’ (Jan 1, 2025) The Straits Times. Available at:https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economic-trends-to-watch-for-singapore-in-2025 [3]‘Healthcare costs are rising in Singapore. Is there really nothing we can do about it?’ (Nov 23, 2024) CNA. Available at:https://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna-insider/healthcare-costs-rising-singapore-hospitals-government-subsidies-moh-4764391 [4]‘The Big Read: Understanding why millennials and Gen Zers feel the way they do about work’ (Jul 30, 2022) CNA. Available at:https://www.todayonline.com/big-read/big-read-understanding-why-millennials-and-gen-zers-feel-way-they-do-about-work-1956641
Hashtag: #AIASingapore
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 – The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), through the National Innovation Agency (Public Organisation) or NIA, has revealed an overview of Thailand’s startup growth for 2024. The data shows a consistent upward trajectory, with a cumulative growth rate of 3.3% since 2021, reinforcing Thailand’s position as one of the world’s most startup-friendly hubs.
Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA)
As we step into 2025, startups face a dynamic landscape marked by economic fluctuations, evolving consumer behaviours, and the rapid emergence of new technologies. Amid these challenges, three key technology sectors are poised for significant growth and investment opportunities: Artificial Intelligence (AI); Sustainability Technologies, including Green Tech, CleanTech, and Climate Tech; and Financial Technologies (FinTech).
Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA), stated that over the past year, Thailand has been home to approximately 2,100 startups, comprising 700 in the pre-seed stage and 1,400 in the go-to-market or growth stage. When compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, Thai startups have demonstrated consistent growth, with seed-stage funding increasing by 4% year-on-year and a cumulative growth rate of 3.3% since 2021.
According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index published last year by StartupBlink—a leading global hub for startup ecosystem data—Thailand ranked 54th globally and 4th in Southeast Asia, following Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This reflects the significant progress of Thailand’s startup ecosystem, which is increasingly recognised on the global stage as one of the region’s emerging hubs for entrepreneurial ventures.
One of the key challenges for Thailand’s startup ecosystem lies in the rapid expansion of Data Centres, with the country emerging as a prime destination for both domestic and global investors. Positioned as the region’s new “Digital Economy Hub,” Thailand’s data centre capacity has surged by over 54% in the past three years, ranking third in ASEAN, following Singapore and Malaysia. Projections for 2024–2027 estimate that Thailand could attract around 260 billion baht in data centre investments.
However, to fully capitalise on this growth, Thailand must accelerate talent development to meet market demands and establish robust, long-term policies that inspire investor confidence. These efforts are critical in fostering a sustainable ecosystem that aligns with the broader challenges of the AI-driven society, the need for upskilling and reskilling the workforce, and the global shift towards ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Embracing ESG not only ensures sustainable business practices but also positions Thailand competitively within the evolving global economic landscape.
Looking ahead to 2025, both in Thailand and globally, the startup landscape is set to be driven by transformative technologies that promise significant growth potential. These key trends include:
Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is rapidly revolutionising industries, with Generative AI at the forefront due to its versatility across sectors. This technology fuels continuous, efficient innovation by creating new content, solutions, and processes. Additionally, the rise of AI Agentic Systems—capable of autonomous thinking, analysis, and decision-making—marks a major leap forward. These systems excel at managing complex tasks and solving multidimensional problems, with over 70% of business leaders and investors confident in their potential to transform operations, from strategic planning and production to customer service. AI Agents not only enhance responsiveness to market demands but also significantly reduce resource consumption, making them an essential asset for future-focused organisations.
Sustainability Technologies (Green Tech, CleanTech, and Climate Tech): As environmental challenges intensify, businesses are increasingly prioritising ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, while consumers demand eco-friendly, socially responsible products and services. This shift is propelling the global environmental tech market towards exponential growth, with forecasts predicting an average annual increase of nearly 25% over the next decade. Innovative solutions addressing clean energy, waste management, and sustainable products are driving this momentum. For startups to succeed in this space, it’s critical to develop business models that balance profitability with positive environmental and social impact.
Financial Technology (FinTech): In Southeast Asia, FinTech continues to dominate the investment landscape, securing an impressive 26% of seed funding in 2024—the highest across all sectors—followed closely by blockchain technologies at 20%. This underscores the sector’s resilience and attractiveness, fuelled by innovations in digital payments, decentralised finance, and blockchain applications.
In an era defined by rapid technological change, agility is key. Startups must cultivate adaptability, building flexible systems that can pivot in response to evolving market conditions. This dynamic approach not only strengthens business foundations but also ensures sustained growth and scalability in an increasingly competitive global environment.
Dr. Krithpaka emphasised that in 2025, under its role as Thailand’s “Focal Conductor of Innovation,” the National Innovation Agency (NIA) remains committed to fostering and accelerating the growth of startups through its extensive mechanisms and networks. The agency will focus particularly on the development of “Impact Tech”—technologies designed to create positive economic and social impacts, reinforcing Thailand’s global image and recognition as an “Innovation Nation.”
NIA’s support framework spans the entire startup journey, from inception to international market expansion guided by the strategic pillars of Groom -> Grant -> Growth -> Global.
GROOM (Knowledge Incubation & Network Building): This phase nurtures entrepreneurial capabilities through the NIA Academy, offering comprehensive courses in collaboration with strategic partners and self-paced learning via online platforms like MOOCs. Additionally, the Startup Thailand League plays a pivotal role in enhancing innovation skills among university students, equipping them with entrepreneurial mindsets and preparing them to transition from academic environments to the real-world startup ecosystem.
GRANT (Funding Support): NIA provides diverse forms of non-repayable grants tailored to stimulate innovative business development. These grants support both economic drivers—such as national innovation business promotion platforms and regional innovation ecosystems—and social impact projects, including the ‘Innovation Village’ initiative and urban and community-focused programmes.
For startups aiming to scale rapidly and penetrate new markets, the National Innovation Agency (NIA) offers robust opportunities to drive business growth under the GROWTH pillar. This is achieved through a suite of tailored incubation and acceleration programmes across four key sectors: Food Technology – via the flagship SPACE-F programme, designed to nurture food-tech startups towards global competitiveness; Agricultural Technology – through the AGROWTH initiative, focusing on innovations that revolutionise modern agriculture; Health Technology – supporting startups that develop cutting-edge health and medical solutions. Climate Technology – fostering sustainable innovations that address climate change and environmental challenges.
To inspire and showcase outstanding innovation success stories, NIA runs the “Nin Mangkorn” project, a platform highlighting transformative ventures. This initiative has evolved into “Nin Mangkorn 10X,” with a bold mission to propel high-potential entrepreneurs into capital markets, targeting revenues of no less than 100 million baht within three years.
Under the GLOBAL pillar, NIA is committed to expanding Thailand’s startup footprint on the international stage through the establishment of a Global Startup Hub. This initiative facilitates cross-border market access, strategic partnerships, and international networking. NIA has forged strong alliances with key global ecosystems, including Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and the Nordic countries, creating a dynamic bridge for Thai startups to thrive in diverse markets.
In addition to its growth and global expansion strategies, the National Innovation Agency (NIA) is actively fostering investment opportunities through mechanisms such as Corporate Co-Funding, in partnership with the Thai Venture Capital Association (TVCA). This initiative provides co-investment funding of up to 10 million baht to support high-potential startups.
Complementing this effort are key government and industry bodies offering robust financial support: The Board of Investment (BOI) promotes promising startups with incentives ranging from 20 to 50 million baht, particularly for those in the Pre-Series A+ stage and beyond; The One Innovation Fund, managed by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), offers substantial backing with a total fund allocation of 1 billion baht to accelerate industrial innovation; and Beacon Venture Capital has launched the Beacon Impact Fund, focusing on investments aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, with an initial fund of 1.2 billion baht.
Moreover, the upcoming “Startup Promotion and Development Act” or the long-waited “Startup Act”, a landmark legislative framework is set to play a pivotal role in solidifying Thailand’s startup landscape. The Act will introduce comprehensive measures to support entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create a more conducive environment for startups to thrive, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Thailand as a leading innovation-driven economy.
https://www.nia.or.th/
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