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Dusit International expands across the lodging spectrum, launches ninth hotel brand – Dusit Hotels

Refined upper-upscale brand is tailored for 120–300 key properties in prime urban and resort locations, delivering market-relevant experiences enriched by Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its global hospitality portfolio with the official launch of Dusit Hotels – its ninth hotel brand – designed to deliver tailored upper-upscale experiences that balance brand consistency with the unique needs of each market in strategic city and leisure destinations worldwide. Dusit’s ninth hotel brand – Dusit Hotels – is designed to deliver refined, upper-upscale experiences that are market-relevant, locally rooted, and enriched by Thai-inspired gracious hospitality. Now open in Doha, Qatar; Hanoi, Vietnam; and Chengdu, China – with Manila, Philippines set to join in 2026. Already introduced at three operating hotels – Dusit Hotel Doha, Qatar; Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi, Vietnam; and Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, China – with another distinctive property, Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila, Philippines, signed and set to open in 2026, the new brand has already marked its presence in key markets across Asia and the Middle East, laying a strong foundation for future growth. Created in response to the growing demand from hotel owners and developers for distinctive properties that combine international standards with a strong sense of local identity, Dusit Hotels is positioned to deliver memorable guest experiences rooted in the unique cultural and physical context of each destination – all underpinned by Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality. Defined by a timeless, warm, and welcoming aesthetic, and guided by the tagline “Distinctly Elevated, Perfected by Place,” Dusit Hotels are crafted with the soul of each location in mind and designed to offer superior levels of comfort for business and leisure travellers of all generations. Public spaces feature curated art and locally inspired details that enhance the sense of place, while integrated smart technologies enrich the stay experience. With a target range of 120 to 300 keys per property, Dusit Hotels is ideally suited for conversions and purpose-built developments that seek to balance refined comfort and contemporary design with market-relevant facilities, such as destination dining, multi-functional event spaces, and wellness offerings tailored to today’s travellers. At each location, Dusit Hotels has demonstrated its ability to deliver refined, upper-upscale experiences rooted in local character and contemporary elegance. Located by Hanoi’s West Lake, the 207-key Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi blends Thai-inspired gracious service with Vietnamese heritage, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, who famously left the royal court to teach silk weaving to the local people, to offer a unique cultural connection through its design, storytelling, and curated dining experiences. In Chengdu, the 248-key Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu embraces its natural setting amidst the scenic surrounds of Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park with guided nature-based activities, farm-to-table dining, and sustainability-led programming aligned with Dusit’s group-wide sustainability initiative, Tree of Life, all contributing to a guest experience that’s both mindful and memorable. Dusit Hotel Doha, meanwhile, with 261 well-appointed guestrooms and suites, plus 96 elegant apartments in the heart of Doha’s vibrant West Bay area, has carved a niche in the Qatari capital’s competitive hospitality landscape by offering warm, personalised service, a variety of international dining options, and wellness experiences delivered through Dusit’s signature Devarana Wellness concept. From in-room rituals to a full-floor spa, the hotel demonstrates how Dusit Hotels can thoughtfully integrate well-being into the guest journey in a way that is meaningful, accessible, and market-relevant. The latest signing under the Dusit Hotels brand – Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila – is set to open in Q4 2026. Occupying the top 10 floors of Primex Tower, a landmark 50-storey mixed-use development in Metro Manila’s San Juan City, the 200-key hotel will feature premium facilities, including Benjarong Thai restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, a rooftop bar, a rooftop swimming pool, and a ballroom with spectacular city views. Together, these properties illustrate the brand’s versatility and appeal – bringing Dusit’s gracious hospitality and service excellence to life in distinctive ways, guided by a consistent upper-upscale positioning. “Our latest brand has been carefully developed to meet the evolving needs of both hotel owners and modern travellers alike,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “As we continue to reposition the Dusit Thani brand firmly within the luxury segment, Dusit Hotels marks a strategic expansion of our presence in the upper-upscale space, reinforcing our evolution across the lodging spectrum. This new brand allows us to bring our unique Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to a broader range of properties, while giving owners the scope to tailor experiences to their specific markets – all backed by our proven systems, global distribution, and operational excellence. With a strong focus on comfort, character, and locality, each hotel will resonate deeply with domestic and international guests seeking purposeful, memorable stays.” Dusit’s global portfolio currently comprises 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 hotels and resorts and 239 luxury villa rentals. The company’s nine brands span the lodging spectrum from affordable lifestyle to bespoke luxury. Alongside Dusit Hotels, the group’s other brands include Devarana – Dusit Retreats (Wellness Luxury), Dusit Thani (Bespoke Luxury), Dusit Collection (Character Luxury), dusitD2 (Lifestyle Upscale), Dusit Princess (Upper Midscale), ASAI Hotels (Lifestyle Midscale), Dusit Suites (Lifestyle Long Stay), and Elite Havens (Luxury Villa Rentals). Across its portfolio, Dusit has already signed 14 new properties this year and has over 60 in the pipeline, reflecting strong demand for its distinctive hospitality offerings worldwide. Dusit Hotels is expected to continue this momentum, with strong developer interest in key markets. “With three Dusit Hotels already in operation and another distinctive property in the pipeline, our newest brand has already resonated strongly with our target market as well as development partners,” said Mr Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Development (Global). “Reflecting strong demand for this offering, we anticipate signing eight additional Dusit Hotels within the next two years, in key gateway destinations, both cities and resorts. For developers

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Tanoto Foundation Presents Community-Led Early Childhood Parenting Models from Indonesia and China at ARNEC Regional Conference 2025

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – At the recent Asia-Pacific Regional Network for Early Childhood (ARNEC) Regional Conference 2025, Tanoto Foundation, an independent philanthropic organization that catalyzes systems change in education and healthcare, presented its successful community-driven early childhood parenting models from Indonesia and China. The two initiatives, Rumah Anak SIGAP from Indonesia and the HOPE (Harnessing Opportunity through Parenting and Education) program from China, showcased proven methods for boosting child development in rural and underserved communities. These initiatives address the critical 0–3 age window, a golden period in a child’s life marked by rapid brain development that reaches up to 80 percent of an adult’s brain size. A study by the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University highlights that brain cell development during early childhood can reach up to 90 percent, laying the foundation for cognitive, language, motor, sensory, and emotional responses. This period is especially challenging in many parts of Asia. A 2023 study by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) revealed that 57 percent of children aged 0–3 in parts of Indonesia are at risk of not reaching their full developmental potential. The study also found that 26 percent of children live in low-quality caregiving environments. In China, a similar concern is the high rate of developmental delays among children aged 0–3 in rural areas, where more than 80 percent fail to meet at least one developmental indicator, according to a 2019 article in the Journal of Comparative Economics. Impact in Indonesia: The Rumah Anak SIGAP Initiative Tanoto Foundation’s Rumah Anak SIGAP program in Indonesia has demonstrated significant positive results. An impact evaluation showed that children in rural areas with initial developmental delays who received stimulation through the program recorded an average developmental score increase of 1.06 points, compared to a 0.53-point increase for urban children. By 2024, the program had reached over 3,000 children and parents through 29 service centers across five provinces: Banten, Central Java, East Kalimantan, Jakarta, and Riau. The program’s success lies in empowering community cadres as agents of change, fostering the local ownership essential for sustainability. Ancilla Irwan, Education Development Lead, explained that this deep community and government collaboration transforms the program into “a vital part of an integrated caregiving ecosystem.” The strength of this model was underscored when the Mayor of Semarang, Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, presented her city’s initiative—which integrates a Rumah Anak SIGAP center with a stunting prevention center—at the same ARNEC conference. “Out of 64 parents interviewed, 59 reported positive changes, such as improved breastfeeding practices, more nutritious feeding, and deeper engagement with their children. The most significant change happens at home, when parents begin to interact with their children consistently and attentively,” said Radi Negara, Impact Evaluation Lead at Tanoto Foundation. Scaling Success in China: The HOPE Program Mirroring this success, the HOPE program in China has effectively scaled its community-driven model to address developmental gaps. The program has successfully trained 330 facilitators and established 138 centers across five provinces: Beijing, Guizhou, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, and Shandong serving over 16,000 children aged 0–3 and their families in rural areas. Wu Wei, Country Head of Tanoto Foundation China, explains that “Investing in Early Childhood Development (ECD) promotes social equity, breaks intergenerational poverty, and strengthens the human capital essential for China’s long-term sustainable development.” As a Core Team member of ARNEC, Tanoto Foundation is committed to the network’s goal of advancing ECD by fostering strong partnerships, sharing knowledge, and advocating for children’s rights. This collaborative spirit was captured in the conference’s closing session by Eddy Henry, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Tanoto Foundation: “This conference exemplifies how collaboration can drive knowledge mobilization, amplify voices, and advance the ECD agenda across the Asia-Pacific region. I hope every organization participating will now bring home and implement these best practices locally, helping influence policy changes to ensure every child has access to inclusive, equitable, and high-quality early childhood development.” Hashtag: #TanotoFoundation The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Tanoto Foundation At Tanoto Foundation, we unlock human potential, help communities thrive, and create lasting impact. Founded in 1981 by Sukanto Tanoto and Tinah Bingei Tanoto, we are an independent family foundation that believes in providing every person with the opportunity to realize his or her full potential. To do so, we catalyze systems change in education and healthcare. Our approach is impact-first, collaborative, and evidence-based. We invest for the long term and strive to develop leaders who can drive sustained, positive outcomes. More information is available at www.tanotofoundation.org/en/.

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DHL Global Forwarding announces strategic leadership appointments in Asia Pacific

Christopher Lim, previously Managing Director, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei, will be appointed Vice President and Head of Road Freight and Multimodal, Asia Pacific, effective 1 August 2025. Praveen Gregory, currently Senior Vice President, Ocean Freight, Asia Pacific, will succeed Christopher as Managing Director, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei, effective 1 August 2025 Bjoern Schoon, currently Vice President, Global Business Development, OMS and OCM, will succeed Praveen as Senior Vice President, Ocean Freight, Asia Pacific, effective 1 August 2025 SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – DHL Global Forwarding, the freight specialist arm of DHL Group, has announced three strategic leadership appointments in Asia Pacific with the upcoming retirement of Bruno Selmoni, Vice President and Head of Road Freight and Multimodal, DHL Global Forwarding. All three appointments will be effective 1 August 2025. From L to R: Christopher Lim, Praveen Gregory, and Bjoern Schoon will assume their new appointments effective 1 August 2025 “Bruno’s retirement after almost 50 years of exceptional service marks both the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our region. There are new openings with his retirement, and I’m proud that we have filled them with outstanding internal leaders, which clearly indicates our colleagues’ drive and desire to grow within our network. Christopher, Praveen, and Bjoern each bring a powerful combination of expertise, experience, market insight, and fresh energy to their roles. These new appointments are a strategic step aligned with Strategy 2030 to accelerate sustainable growth, innovate our services, and empower our teams. I’m confident this team will drive our ambitions forward, delivering value for our customers and inspiring our colleagues to reach new heights,” said Niki Frank, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. Christopher Lim appointed as Vice President and Head of Road Freight and Multimodal, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. Christopher Lim, currently Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei, will succeed Bruno Selmoni as Vice President and Head of Road Freight and Multimodal, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. He will continue to be based in Singapore and report to Niki Frank, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. Christopher joined the DHL Group in 2004 as a Regional Account Development Manager, and has since assumed several management roles across DHL Global Forwarding. Serving clients in the telecommunications and network sector, he gained experience across various teams until he was announced as Head of Sales and Marketing of DHL Global Forwarding Hong Kong and South China in early 2013. He was promoted to Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding Malaysia in the same year before his portfolio expanded to his current role in 2020. Praveen Gregory takes over from Christopher Lim as Managing Director of DHL Global Forwarding Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei. With Christopher’s move, Praveen Gregory, currently Senior Vice President, Ocean Freight, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific, will succeed Christopher as Managing Director of DHL Global Forwarding Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei. Praveen will continue to report directly to Niki Frank and will be based in Singapore. Praveen has extensive experience in the logistics sector. Before joining the DHL Group in Dubai Ocean Freight Operations in 2008, Praveen worked for Maersk. In 2010, he relocated to Germany and held several roles in Market Intelligence & Strategy and Product Development. He moved to Hong Kong in 2018 to take on regional management roles in Ocean Commercial Center and Account Management for Industrial Supply Chain (ISC). In 2022, he assumed the position of Vice President, Order Management Solutions Asia Pacific, before he took on his current role in 2023. Bjoern Schoon takes over from Praveen Gregory as Senior Vice President, Ocean Freight, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. Bjoern Schoon, currently Vice President, Global Business Development, Order Management Solutions (OMS) and Ocean Contract Management (OCM), DHL Global Forwarding, will succeed Praveen as Senior Vice President, Ocean Freight, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. Bjoern will relocate to Singapore and report directly to Niki Frank, with a dotted reporting line to Casper Ellerbaek, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Ocean Freight, DHL Global Forwarding. Bjoern is a seasoned logistics expert with nearly 30 years of experience in ocean freight and supply chain across key global markets. Before joining DHL, Bjoern has accumulated invaluable leadership experience in his previous roles at Kuehne+Nagel, having assumed key positions including Managing Director for Belgium and Luxembourg in 2023. for Thailand, Cambodia & Myanmar between 2016 and 2022. Before these, he held senior roles in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and South China, with experience in sea logistics, account management and customer service. Hashtag: #DHLGroup #LogisticsLeadership #SupplyChain #OceanFreight The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. DHL – The logistics company for the world DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 400,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”. DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 84.2 billion euros in 2024. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

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Julius Baer Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2025 APAC Key Highlights

Overview – Asia Pacific’s Wealth Boom Accelerates HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – The sixth edition of the Julius Baer Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report confirms the ongoing shift from material consumption towards experiences. Jen-Ai Chua, Research Analyst, Asia, Julius Baer, commented: “Asia Pacific remains one of the fastest-growing regions globally. Real GDP grew 4.5 per cent year on year in 2024 – moderating slightly from 5.1 per cent in 2023 but still outpacing the global average of 3.3 per cent. Firm fundamentals have set the stage for the rapid ascent of wealth in the region. The number of high-net-worth individuals in Asia is projected to have grown 5 per cent year on year to 855,000 in 2024. Growth in China and India is expected to help bring Asia’s share of new HNWIs globally to an estimated 47.5 per cent between 2025 and 2028.” Global city rankings: Three APAC cities in the top six globally Asia Pacific (APAC) continues to be an expensive place to live well in general, as its developing cities continue their upward economic trajectory. The region saw only slight price decreases of 1 per cent on average across the region, making it the most stable of all the surveyed regions this year. Once again, two of the world’s three most expensive cities can be found in the Asia Pacific region, where Singapore ranks 1st (unchanged) and Hong Kong ranks 3rd (from 2nd). Bangkok and Tokyo made the largest leaps, each climbing six places to 11th and 17th respectively. Conversely, Shanghai dropped from fourth to sixth, and Manila fell to 23rd despite a 7.5 per cent rise in average local currency prices. Singapore (ranked #1 globally): Singapore continues to top the index as the costliest city for living well for the third consecutive year. Despite this, the city remains highly liveable, appealing to high-net-worth individuals and businesses due to its stable political climate, safety, and quality services, including education and healthcare. Overall, Singapore’s stability and connectivity continue to make it a leading choice for relocation and residency. Lifestyle index[1]: Singapore is ranked the most expensive for categories of car and women’s handbag, second for women’s shoes and third for residential property and healthcare. It is amongst the least expensive for a treadmill (ranked 21st). Hong Kong (ranked #3 globally): Hong Kong remains one of the most expensive cities to live well. Its low taxes and cosmopolitan appeal continue to attract wealthy individuals, bolstered by a residency-by-investment programme that has drawn significant interest from both mainland Chinese and global HNWIs. Lifestyle index: Hong Kong is ranked the most expensive for a lawyer, and second most expensive for car and residential property, and third for degustation dinner. While Singapore saw hotel suites rise 10 per cent this year, Hong Kong saw a 26 per cent fall in prices. Shanghai (ranked #6 globally): Lifestyle index: Shanghai remains the second most expensive city for watches, the third most expensive city for women’s shoes, and while it is the most expensive city to have a degustation dinner, it is interestingly the second cheapest for Champagne, after Hong Kong. Bangkok (ranked #11 globally): Bangkok made one of the biggest jumps this year, going up 6 places. While relatively affordable for many services in the index, Bangkok is one of the priciest global cities for luxury goods such as ladies’ and men’s fashions, as well as cars and watches. Lifestyle index: Bangkok is ranked most expensive for women’s shoes, and third for cars. Mumbai (ranked #20 globally): Despite India’s position as a rising economic powerhouse, Mumbai is relatively affordable for most services, particularly hospitality and travel. Lifestyle index: Interestingly, it is jointly ranked most expensive for treadmill, but cheapest across the board for LASIK. Shifting spending patterns among APAC’s wealthy In APAC, spending on goods remains high, though consumer preferences continue to evolve. The growing wealth of APAC’s HNW population, combined with increased interest in health, wellness, and experiences, continues to shape spending patterns across the region. APAC HNWIs boost investment and risk appetite HNWIs in APAC have tended to increase both spending and investing (39 per cent), with the highest overall total increase in those investing at 68 per cent. Most HNWIs from APAC have increased the diversity of assets in their portfolio and a consistent proportion has increased the level of risk. Investors in these regions also tend to be more interested in investing in future trends or in line with their values. Equities remain the preferred asset class in APAC, followed by real estate and cash. Despite notable ‘ESG fatigue’ in other regions, there has been a growing commitment to sustainable investing in APAC. Products and services APAC HNWIs spent more money on in the past 12 months HNWIs in APAC have seen some of the biggest jumps in cost for lifestyle spending habits, outpacing all regions in high-end women’s clothes, hotels, fine dining, as 80 per cent of them have reported increased assets over the past year. There was one category this year where prices increased more sharply than any other – across almost all cities and in APAC, business class flights rose 12.6 per cent and the region also saw a marked increase in leisure travel compared to business travel. In line with global trends, longevity is now top of mind for many HNWIs in APAC. In the region, 100 per cent said they are taking measures to increase their lifespans, ranging from lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a good diet to more extreme measures such as gene therapy and cryogenic chambers being used by 21 per cent of respondents in APAC. Unlike other regions, those in APAC said that their attitudes are overwhelmingly concerned with health, even as other regions reported more interest in dining experiences and human interaction. The Next Generation When it comes to financial longevity, the majority of HNWIs say the will adjust their wealth strategy to cover an increase in lifespan, with measures ranging from

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HKSTP Joins Hands with Mainland and Overseas Institutions to Launch Global University Innovation Network

Hong Kong Techathon+ Marks its 10th Anniversary Reinforcing Hong Kong’s Position as an International Talent and I&T Hub HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with 15 local tertiary institutions and supported by leading global tertiary institutions and organisations, today celebrated the 10th anniversary of its flagship international intercollegiate innovation and technology (I&T) event, Hong Kong Techathon+ (HK Techathon+) at Hong Kong Science Park. The occasion also marked the launch of the “Global University Innovation Network” (GUIN), a new initiative designed to deepen international collaboration among tertiary institutions, and further bolster Hong Kong’s position as an international talent and I&T hub. HKSTP, joined by representatives from 15 local tertiary institutions, officially announced the establishment of GUIN. The ceremony is officiated by Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry (front row, centre), Mr Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP (front row, left), Mr Derek Chim, Head of Startup Ecosystem and Development (front row, right) as well as senior management from participating institutions. Establishment of GUIN to Foster Global Innovation and Talent Exchange The newly established GUIN is a collaborative effort between HKSTP and 15 local institutions: The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University, The Education University of Hong Kong, Lingnan University, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology, Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, and Tung Wah College. GUIN is further supported by renowned universities, in the overseas including Nanyang Technological University (Singapore), Singapore Management University, Singapore University of Social Sciences, The University of Queensland (Australia), The University of Newcastle (Australia), Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (mainland China), Chulalongkorn University (Thailand), Universiti Malaya (Malaysia), and Astana Business Campus of Nazarbayev University (Kazakhstan). The initiative aims to enhance innovation collaboration between Hong Kong and esteemed global institutions, facilitating cross-regional resource sharing, talent exchanges, and the commercialisation of R&D outcomes. GUIN will attract top-tier international I&T teams and startups to Hong Kong, further elevating the city’s position as the international talent and I&T hub. Profess Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, remarked, “Hong Kong enjoys a unique advantage of having strong support from the motherland and close connection with the world, converging global innovation resources, including high-calibre talents. The Government is committed to developing Hong Kong into an international I&T centre. Over the past two years, we have attracted over 200 I&T enterprises with high potential and representativeness to set up or expand their businesses here. I encourage all the young talents to seize this opportunity to collaborate, innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible.” Mr Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said: “From a bold vision a decade ago, HK Techathon+ has evolved into a flagship Hong Kong and international intercollegiate I&T event, symbolising the collective commitment of HKSTP, our partnering institutions, and supporters in nurturing innovative talent. HKSTP has been committed to cultivate a vibrant I&T ecosystem, offering comprehensive support to young innovators – from ideation and R&D to business expansion. We look forward to seeing these young talents unleash their creativity and potential, becoming key drivers of Hong Kong’s I&T development and co-creating an exciting new chapter in our city’s innovation journey.” Key initiatives Under GUIN: 1. Theme-based Global Incubation Programme Leveraging the research strengths of Hong Kong’s tertiary institutions, this Programme attracts global innovation teams to conduct R&D and commercialisation activities locally. The Programme will develop in various academic sectors. The initial phase includes partnerships with the University of Hong Kong’s Faculty of Dentistry to establish the “Global Hub for Future Dentistry” programme, and with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Optometry and InnoHK Centre for Eye and Vision Research to launch the “Global Vision Tech Incubation” programme. 2. Talent Exchange Initiatives Through HKSTP’s Global Internship Programme and industry academia research frameworks, overseas talents gain valuable practical experience and industry engagement opportunities. This summer alone, HKSTP welcomed over 200 interns from world-leading institutions – including 32 students from The University of Newcastle, Australia, partner of GUIN – to work with five startups in the Science Park on credit-bearing projects. HK Techathon+ Celebrates a Decade of Promoting Intercollegiate I&T Collaboration Since its inception in July 2015, HK Techathon+ has grown significantly, attracting over 7,000 young innovators, generating more than 2,400 innovative projects, and nurturing hundreds of entrepreneurs and startups. Many alumni have gained global recognition, with several featured on the “Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia” list. Since expanding into a global event in 2024, HK Techathon+ has welcomed participation from over 30 leading international institutions from mainland China, Taiwan, Macao, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, and the United States, including world renowned institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and The University of Queensland. This international platform enables local and overseas academic innovators and startups to exchange ideas, deepen their understanding of Hong Kong’s vibrant I&T ecosystem, and integrate seamlessly into the city’s innovation landscape. Hashtag: #HKSTP The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 15,000 research professionals and over 2,300 technology companies from 25 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc. Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong,

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SleekFlow Unveils AgentFlow: Building Teams of AI Agents To Increase Revenue For Businesses

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – SleekFlow, an Agentic AI platform for conversions, announces the launch of AgentFlow, a transformative AI solution designed to build teams of AI agents and redefine how businesses do sales. By leveraging cutting-edge conversational AI, AgentFlow empowers enterprises of different sizes to turn every interaction into a conversion opportunity, accelerating lead generation, sales, and customer retention across multiple channels. SleekFlow, launched in 2019, operates in 6 regions and helps more than 2000 businesses globally handle 600k conversations every day With its engineering team led by former Silicon Valley based LinkedIn China CTO Gao Lei, SleekFlow presents one of Hong Kong’s first AI agent platforms specifically designed to increase sales and human collaborations Last week, the AgentFlow launch event, “Connecting at Scale with AgentFlow,” in Hong Kong brought together tech innovators from Microsoft, McKinsey, and HSBC to inspire AI transformation to a crowd of 100. AgentFlow: A New Era of Secured Intelligent Customer Interactions curated by AI AgentFlow is built on SleekFlow’s advanced AI engine, utilizing a multi-agent architecture and graph database technology to deliver scalable, context-aware conversations. Unlike traditional AI systems that struggle with complex queries, AgentFlow deploys specialized AI agents to handle distinct tasks—such as data retrieval, inquiry resolution, and lead scoring—with unparalleled precision. Key capabilities include: Multilingual Mastery: Supports seamless conversations in English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Cantonese, enabling businesses to engage diverse audiences effortlessly. Advanced Data Processing: Extracts structured information from complex file formats like spreadsheets, PDFs, and visual-heavy documents, ensuring accurate and context-rich responses. Model-Optimized Performance: Integrates models like GPT-4o, 4o-mini, and Gemini, dynamically selecting the best model for each task to enhance natural language understanding and data retrieval. Vector Database Efficiency: Leverages vector databases for rapid, scalable retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), minimizing response times and reducing AI hallucinations. Seamless and No-code Integration: Trains AI agents using existing knowledge bases and integrates with Flow Builder to embed intelligent automation into workflows. Enterprise-level Security: AgentFlow is developed with security and compliance at its core ISO/IEC 27001 & SOC 2 Type II Certified and GDPR Compliant. AgentFlow is built on Azure OpenAI, the customer data is never used to train public models. “With SleekFlow’s AgentFlow, we’re making it radically easy for businesses to deploy AI at scale in a flexible and effective solution.” said Henson Tsai, CEO of SleekFlow. “We want to empower companies to deliver human-like interactions that drive revenue and build lasting relationships, and this is just the beginning.” Launch Event Highlights: A Vision for the Future of AI conversions On July 10, 2025, SleekFlow celebrated the launch of AgentFlow with an exclusive event at The Executive Center, Central, together with their AI launch partners Beame, EGL and HKBN. Over 100 industry leaders, technology innovators, and business executives from sectors such as Financial Services, Healthcare, Wellness, and Retail gathered to explore the transformative impact of AI-native customer engagement. Featuring insights from enterprises like Microsoft, McKinsey, and HSBC, the discussions underscored one key takeaway: mastering AI is no longer optional—it’s essential for businesses and employees to thrive in the future. Alfred Kam, Chief Information Officer of EGL Tours, Hong Kong’s leading travel agency, shared, “Adopting AI isn’t just about staying competitive today—it’s a skill that will help employees remain relevant for the next 20 to 30 years.” Kenneth She, Chief Transformation Officer of HKBN—one of Hong Kong’s top broadband providers now expanding into insurance and other products—added, “Let the team stay what they do, do what they are good at, and transform them to do better [with AI].” Samson Fong, Regional Head of Marketing at Beame, a provider of advanced orthodontic solutions: “To keep the brand voice and protect the brand at scale across regions, human involvement remains essential. AI-human collaboration is key to achieving this balance.” Henson Tsai, Founder & CEO of SleekFlow: “The best time to start AI was yesterday. The second best time to start AI is today.” AgentFlow simplifies AI adoption, empowering businesses to integrate this critical skill with ease. As the AI era accelerates, understanding and leveraging its potential is a skill every professional must embrace to stay ahead. The Unstoppable Rise of AI in Commerce, revealed by SleekFlow’s exclusive survey SleekFlow’s 2025 Whitepaper on AI in Commerce underscores the critical role of AI in today’s business landscape. Based on a survey of 200 Hong Kong consumers and businesses, the findings reveal: 65% of consumers are familiar with conversational AI, using it for product discovery, order tracking, and reservations. 66% of businesses have adopted AI to enhance efficiency and streamline workflows. 45% of businesses plan to increase AI investment by 2027, signaling strong momentum for AI-driven solutions. These insights highlight the growing demand for intelligent, scalable platforms like AgentFlow, which empower businesses to meet evolving consumer expectations while optimizing operations. “AgentFlow represents a leap forward in conversational AI, blending cutting-edge multi-agent systems with no-code integration. At SleekFlow, we’ve engineered an agentic solution that not only understands complex customer needs but is also capable of taking actions on behalf of you—truly empowering businesses to thrive in the AI-native era.” Lei Gao, CTO of SleekFlow. Hashtag: #SleekFlow The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About SleekFlow Trusted by over 2000 enterprises across 70 countries, SleekFlow unifies WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, SMS, Website Live Chat, and more into a single, clutter-free workspace—so your team can focus on building relationships that convert. Seamlessly integrated with your e-commerce, payments, calendar, and CRM systems, our AI Revenue Agent understands customer history, recommends products, collects payments, and schedules appointments—handling the entire journey from inquiry to sale. Designed for AI-human collaboration, SleekFlow’s Inbox Copilot centralizes communication, automates repetitive tasks, and highlights next steps and upsell opportunities. This empowers your team to close more deals with less effort. SleekFlow is located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brazil, and the UAE. In Jun 2025, the Series A+ startup secured an additional funding round, bringing its total capital raised to USD $23.5 million. Investors include Atinum Investment,

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Gother transforms travel experience for next-gen travelers, aiming for Top 3 in Thailand’s tourism market by 2027

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – Gother, a tourism service platform, operated by Search Engine Optimization, a joint venture between Beacon Venture Capital (venture arm of Kasikornbank) and Krungthai Ventures (venture arm of Krungthai Bank) is showing strong upward momentum following a 300% business growth in just seven months since launch in the past year. Aimed at upgrading its platform, Gother is targeting the new generation of travelers by offering a comprehensive travel booking experience. This includes accommodations, flights, car rentals, tour packages, and exciting activities that align with modern travel lifestyles. The platform offers seamless digital integration with mobile banking apps such as K PLUS, Krungthai NEXT, and Paotang, for easy payments and other services. This is expected to help solidify its ambition to become one of Thailand’s top 3 travel platforms by 2027. Mr. Anupong Kriangkrailipikorn, CEO of Search Engine Optimization and founder of Gother, stated that Gother is not just a platform for booking travel, but part of the travel lifestyle, designed to complement every journey, turning it into a special experience. The platform’s mission is emphasized to be a truly Thai-centric service, tailored to the cultural nuances and preferences of local travelers. Since its official launch in 2024, Gother has attracted strong interest from next-gen tourists, achieving 4-time growth within a single year, and expecting to continue rising. To sustain this momentum, Gother will implement three core strategies in 2025: 1. Diversifying access channels: Gother services are available through www.gother.com, the Gother application on iOS and Android, and integrated on leading mobile banking platforms including K PLUS, Krungthai NEXT, and Paotang. These platforms feature secure and convenient payment systems that allow users to complete bookings and payments in one place. 2. Using AI and technology: Gother is leveraging data analytics capabilities to better understand user behavior and provide more targeted services. A new version of the application with intelligent AI features that recommend travel experiences based on individual preferences will launch later this year. 3. Expanding partnerships: Gother is growing its network of partners to include top-tier hotels, airlines, and tour operators domestically and globally. The goal is to offer a wider range of travel services, from flights and accommodations to tour programs, car rentals, and customized experiences for all travelers at competitive prices with attractive promotions and exclusive discounts. With this strategy, Gother is targeting 10 billion baht in booking value by 2027 and eyeing a top-three position as Thailand’s premier homegrown travel platform that truly understands the needs of modern Thai travelers. Backed by the support and capital of Beacon Venture Capital and Krungthai Ventures, Gother is confident in its ability to scale and achieve its ambition as a travel platform for Thais. Hashtag: #Gother The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Gother Gother is a comprehensive travel and lifestyle service platform developed in 2024 by Search Engine Optimization Co., Ltd., as a rebrand of the former TraveliGo platform (founded in 2015). Gother offers a full suite of travel services, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals, activities, and tour packages, available through www.gother.com and the Gother application. The platform is committed to redefining the travel experience by collaborating with various partners and adopting innovations to meet the evolving preferences of Thai travelers across all lifestyles.

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HMG Partners with MediConCen to spearhead Medical Claims Digitalization in Hong Kong

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – HealthMutual Group (HMG), a pioneer in medical concierge and insurance management, and MediConCen Limited, an InsurTech innovator, today announced a strategic partnership to develop an advanced AI-driven claims solution tailored for the Hong Kong market. Mr. KC Chan, Founder of HMG (right) and Mr. William Yeung, CEO and Co-Founder of MediConCe (left) are delighted with the strategic partnership which serves to foster the sustainability of Hong Kong’s medical insurance sector. By combining MediConCen’s expertise in AI, blockchain, and automation with HMG’s solid experience in medical claims management, the collaboration aims to streamline claims processing, enhance efficiency, and establish a localized Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) detection framework. Mr. KC Chan, Founder of HMG, said, “with over 11 years of experience in medical concierge services, HMG has developed an in-depth understanding of claims management. Our proprietary OCR-based medical invoice platform aligns perfectly with the digital transformation of claims processing, while facilitating the set-up of a FWA framework to ensure robust risk management. Partnering with MediConCen, a leader in cutting-edge InsurTech, allows us to further our mission of supporting the sustainability of Hong Kong’s medical insurance sector.” Mr. William Yeung, CEO and Co-Founder of MediConCen, said “this collaboration merges MediConCen’s AI-powered technological expertise with HMG’s unparalleled domain knowledge in insurance and healthcare. Together, we are creating a solution that empowers claims assessors to make faster, and consistent decisions—setting a new gold standard for the industry.” The partnership underscores the importance of combining insurance practicality with technology to deliver digitalisation for insurance process. Hashtag: #HMG #MedConCen #Mr.KCChan #Mr.WilliamYeung #MedicalClaims #Digitalization #AI #MedicalInsuranceSector #OCR The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About HMG Established in 2014, HealthMutual Group has swiftly emerged as a premier leader in healthcare management across Hong Kong and the Greater China Region. Passionately dedicated to transforming healthcare management and its funding mechanism through provision of medical concierge and other essential value-added service, it benefits all stakeholders: the insured, insurance companies, and the medical sector, fostering their sustainable growth and development. About MedConCen MediConCen is a leading insurTech founded in 2018. Awarded in numerous local and international competitions, MediConCen is the first Hong Kong company utilizing blockchain and cutting-edge technology to automate insurance claim and evolve the insurance claim experience.

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Shopee Launches First-Ever MSME Co-Lab in Malaysia to Strengthen Support for Local Entrepreneurs

Inaugural programme launched first in Malaysia in conjunction with Shopee’s annual Seller Summit; Signs MOU with Advokasi Perusahaan dan Industri (API) KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 July 2025 – On 10 July, Shopee Malaysia announced the launch of the Shopee MSME Co-Lab, a new programme designed to strengthen collaboration with local stakeholders and better support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in navigating and succeeding in the digital economy. The Shopee MSME Co-Lab brings together MSME associations, ecosystem partners and other industry stakeholders to share insights, explore emerging opportunities, and co-develop practical solutions that empower small businesses to start and scale online. [Left] Dato’ Fazli Nordin, Managing Director, Advokasi Perusahaan dan Industri at the MoU signing ceremony with [right] Saovanee Chan-Somchit, Country Director, Shopee Malaysia. Launched in conjunction with this year’s Shopee Seller Summit, the programme marks a milestone in Shopee’s ongoing efforts to support MSME digitalisation in alignment with national priorities such as the MADANI Economy Framework and Budget 2025. As part of the programme’s launch, Shopee formalised a collaboration with Advokasi Perusahaan dan Industri (API) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) — marking the beginning of ongoing engagement with industry partners to support local entrepreneurs more effectively. Malaysia is the first Shopee market to activate the Co-Lab, recognising the strength and diversity of its MSME community, while also serving as a foundation for future learning and potential expansion across the region. “The Shopee MSME Co-Lab is part of our ongoing commitment to listen, learn, and work more closely with MSMEs to build a more inclusive and supportive digital ecosystem,” said Saovanee Chan-Somchit, Country Director, Shopee Malaysia. “Through this platform, we hope to strengthen partnerships and develop solutions that help more Malaysian businesses grow and succeed online.” Key components of the Shopee MSME Co-Lab programme include: Strategic Dialogues and Insights Convening MSME leaders and other industry stakeholders to discuss experiences, insights, and changing priorities as well as exchange views on digital commerce trends and challenges faced by MSMEs. These engagements aim to surface actionable insights that may inform future initiatives or be shared in broader industry discussions. Innovation Previews and Feedback Loops Selected MSME partners will receive early access to new features, tools, or strategic initiatives and provide feedback. Collaborative Partnerships The Co-Lab may serve as a platform for engaging with partners on potential joint initiatives that benefit the broader Malaysian MSME community. “This collaboration with Shopee allows us to bring the voices and needs of MSMEs directly into the room with decision-makers and platform innovators. It’s not just about selling more, it’s about building a more inclusive digital future together,” said Dato’ Fazli Nordin, Managing Director, Advokasi Perusahaan dan Industri. Commitment to Malaysia and Beyond The Shopee MSME Co-Lab builds on Shopee’s ongoing efforts to support small business communities through capacity building, platform enhancements, and deeper engagement with ecosystem partners. Launching the initiative in Malaysia marks an exciting opportunity to deepen local collaboration and explore new ways to support MSMEs with learnings that may help shape future efforts across the region. “Our vision is to be more than a platform–we want to be an active partner in shaping what’s next for MSMEs,” added Saovanee. “The Co-Lab gives MSMEs a voice in shaping the tools and experiences they need, while fostering stronger ecosystems built on mutual trust and shared progress.” Shopee will onboard more partners under the MSME Co-Lab in the coming months, with ongoing engagements guiding future developments. Hashtag: #Shopee The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Shopee Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities. Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce. Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a leading global consumer internet company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena and Monee.

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Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) by Novo Nordisk is now Available in Singapore for Weight Management

Wegovy® is indicated for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents (12+) with obesity or overweight and at least one related health condition. The once-weekly injectable supports weight loss when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The launch marks a step toward evidence-based, compassionate treatment of obesity as a chronic disease—not a personal failing. SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 July 2025 – A significant advancement in weight management has arrived for Singaporeans. Novo Nordisk, a global healthcare company focused on defeating serious chronic diseases, has announced the availability of Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) in Singapore. Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) is a once-weekly injectable treatment indicated for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents (aged 12 and above) living with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²), or who are overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m² to <30 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia1. It is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, supporting Singapore’s efforts to improve population health. The treatment works by addressing one of the underlying biological drivers of obesity. Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with 94% similarity to the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. It activates receptors involved in appetite regulation, helping individuals feel full sooner and reduce food intake1. This mechanism supports weight loss when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes. The availability of Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) comes as obesity continues to pose a significant health burden in Singapore. An estimated 600,000 adults are currently living with obesity2–4, a condition associated with more than 200 health complications5. Despite its prevalence and medical complexity, obesity remains heavily stigmatised—often misunderstood as merely the result of poor personal choices. Individuals living with obesity frequently face discrimination and mental health challenges which further isolate them. This misplaced blame, rather than targeting the disease itself, creates barriers to and slows the advancement of effective obesity treatment. Recognised by World Health Organization as a chronic disease6, obesity requires compassionate evidence-based care. The launch of Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) in Singapore provides a new treatment option for weight management available through private prescription. Dr Abel Soh, Abel Soh Diabetes, Thyroid and Endocrine Clinic and Chairperson for Endocrine and Metabolic Society of Singapore (EMSS) stated, “Obesity is not simply the result of lifestyle choices — it is a medically recognised chronic disease influenced by a complex interplay of genetics, hormones, and environment. In my clinical practice, I see firsthand how many individuals blame themselves when in fact, their biology is often working against them. It’s time we shift the conversation from blame to support in the management of individuals with obesity” Lifestyle factors in Singapore further contribute to the challenge. In Singapore’s demanding work culture—where full-time employees work an average of 44.6 hours per week7, with time constraints and fatigue frequently cited as barriers to maintaining regular physical activity. These circumstances underscore the importance of comprehensive treatment strategies that facilitate the adoption of healthier lifestyles, including increased physical activity and a reduced-calorie diet, as integral components of long-term weight management. Mr Vincent Siow, General Manager, Novo Nordisk Singapore, said “With treatments like Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4mg) now available in Singapore, we have an opportunity to provide healthcare professionals with more evidence-based options to support their patients in regaining control of their health and improving long-term outcomes.” References: Wegovy Singapore Prescribing Information, February 2025 Cuciureanu M, Caratașu CC, Gabrielian L, Frăsinariu OE, Checheriță LE, Trandafir LM, Stanciu GD, Szilagyi A, Pogonea I, Bordeianu G, Soroceanu RP, Andrițoiu CV, Anghel MM, Munteanu D, Cernescu IT, Tamba BI. 360-Degree Perspectives on Obesity. Medicina (Kaunas). 2023 Jun 9;59(6):1119. doi: 10.3390/medicina59061119. PMID: 37374323; PMCID: PMC10304508.​ World Obesity. Retrieved from https://www.worldobesity.org/about/about-obesity/prevalence-of-obesity​ World Obesity. Retrieved from https://data.worldobesity.org/country/singapore-192/ Scott I. Kahan, MD, MPH. Practical Strategies for Engaging Individuals With Obesity in Primary Care. Mayo Clin Proc. 2018;93(3):351-359 2. CDC, Cancers Associated with Overweight and Obesity Makeup 40 percent of Cancers Diagnosed in the United States. Available at https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p1003-vs-cancer-obesity.html.​ World Health Organization. (2024). Obesity and overweight.WHO.https://www.who.int/news-room/factsheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight As accessed on 22nd May 2025. Leu J, Rebello SA, Sargent GM, Kelly M, Banwell C. Hard work, long hours, and Singaporean young adults’ health. A qualitative study. Frontiers in Public Health. 2023; 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1082581 Hashtag: #NovoNordisk #Wegovy The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Novo Nordisk Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs around 77,400 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. In Singapore, Novo Nordisk has been present since 1997 and has approximately 100 employees. For more information, visit novonordisk.sg.

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