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DBS Foundation’s Inaugural “GBA Impact Beyond Dialogue 2025” to Explore the Future of an Ageing Society

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Reimagining collaborative approaches to silver economy with government, businesses and social enterprises

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2025 – As Hong Kong and other cities in the Greater Bay Area face challenges brought by an ageing population, DBS Foundation (“DBSF”) believes that a senior-friendly community can be a powerful driver for innovation and economic growth. DBSF today hosts its first-ever “GBA Impact Beyond Dialogue 2025: The Future of Ageing in Hong Kong & GBA”, which brings together leaders from the government, businesses and social enterprises, redefining the silver economy and exploring cross-sector and cross-border collaborations that transform ageing into a valuable asset for the economy and society.

Leaders from business and social sectors convene at the DBS Foundation’s “GBA Impact Beyond Dialogue 2025” to explore collaborative solutions for ageing population and potential market of silver economy.

Ho Kai Ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, HKSAR Government, emphasised during his opening remarks that collaborative efforts are needed to address the opportunities and challenges posed by an ageing population. “As we navigate the complexities of an ageing population, it is essential for the community to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation. This Dialogue offers an invaluable platform for stakeholders to collaborate, co-creating a supportive environment where seniors can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society,” he remarked.

The forum features a range of discussions from leveraging innovation to cultivate holistic wellbeing in an ageing society to promoting social inclusion in Hong Kong and other cities in the Greater Bay Area.19 local social enterprises were invited to showcase their innovative solutions including those focusing on addressing ageing issues in the silver economy.

The DBSF has committed to supporting social enterprises and promoting sustainable development since its establishment in 2014. DBS Bank pledged to invest up to SGD 1 billion (approximately HKD 5.7 billion) from 2024 over the next decade to support vulnerable communities.

Alphae Chen, Head of DBS Foundation and Head of Group Strategic Marketing and Communications, DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, said, “At DBS Foundation, we believe that addressing the needs of our ageing population is not just a responsibility but an opportunity for transformation. At this inaugural ‘GBA Impact Beyond Dialogue 2025’, we aim to connect like-minded businesses to collaborate, share different perspectives and generate innovative ideas that will drive actionable solutions to empower and enable our seniors to age and live in dignity, and to foster a society where seniors are supported and engaged, where their life knowledge and experience can be shared across generations.”

In addition, the event introduces the three grantees of the DBS Foundation Grant 2024, recognising impactful social enterprises. Since the launch of the grant programme in 2015, DBSF has disbursed grants totalling SGD 21.5 million[1] (equivalent to HKD 123.8 million) to some 160 grantees. Last year, over 1,500 applications across key markets[2] were received, with 22 social enterprises awarded a total of SGD 4.5 million (equivalent to HKD 25.9 million) to scale up their business and benefit vulnerable communities. All in, their work is projected to collectively benefit more than 800,000 beneficiaries over two years.

Among the 22 grantees, three notable Hong Kong enterprises include The Project Futurus, which promotes positive ageing, dignity dining and social inclusion through education, advocacy, and community service; Motive Force, which advances elderly and disabled well-being through innovative gerontechnology, rehabilitation, and primary healthcare solution; and Rhys Workshop, which empowers marginalised communities with sewing training and remote work opportunities for sustainable careers.

For more information on DBSF’s work and the DBSF Grant, please visit: https://www.dbs.com/foundation/grants.html


[1] This figure includes this latest instalment of the DBS Foundation grant programme.

[2] Singapore, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Indonesia.

Hashtag: #DBSFoundation

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

DBS Foundation

DBS Foundation is committed to uplifting lives and livelihoods of those in need.

Since 2014, it has been championing innovative businesses for impact – businesses that are focused on addressing key societal issues, and achieve profit through purpose. Through philanthropic funding, capacity-building, mentorship and other support measures, DBS Foundation catalyses the growth and impact of these purpose-driven businesses.

It also seeks to ignite positive change by helping the underserved and underprivileged to build towards better circumstances. This includes providing essential needs to those without, and fostering inclusion by equipping them with financial and digital literacy skills.

DBS Foundation also works with other like-minded partners to ignite enduring change. Its vision is to spark collective action to help build a better world; to make every day better and every tomorrow brighter. For more information, please visit: .

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Credo Assurance Earns ESG Certification to Support Sustainability Reporting

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – Credo Assurance, an ACRA-registered audit firm in Singapore, has obtained the ISCA Professional Certification in Sustainability Assurance. The recognition has reflected its readiness to conduct independent reviews of environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting in accordance with established standards.

Credo Assurance Earns ESG Certification to Support Sustainability Reporting

A Response to a Changing Regulatory Environment
Singapore’s corporate sustainability environment has undergone a major transformation in recent years. What began as voluntary corporate social responsibility is now transitioning into a regulated requirement driven by new disclosure mandates. The Singapore Exchange (SGX) requires all listed companies to publish sustainability reports, with climate-related disclosures to be aligned with the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework.

These developments mirror global trends, including the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the proposed climate disclosure rules by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Notably, these frameworks are influencing supply chains and investment decisions worldwide.

A Commitment to Rigorous Standards and Responsible Practice
The certification was issued by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) under the Professional Certification in Sustainability Assurance programme, which focuses on the International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (ISSA 5000). The curriculum also covers key frameworks, such as ISAE 3000, ISO 14064-3, and the reporting principles set out by the Sustainability Reporting Advisory Committee (SRAC).

Participants undergo six months of structured e-learning and a three-day capstone assessment module, which includes a comprehensive 65-question examination. The programme integrates the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and other global reporting standards.

“The certification demonstrates our firm’s dedication to professional rigour and to supporting Singapore’s transition toward a sustainable, transparent economy,” as revealed by Ethan Ong, Director of Credo Assurance. “We aim to strengthen stakeholder confidence and enhance the quality of ESG reporting.”

New Sustainability Assurance Services to Support Businesses Across Sectors
Building on this certification, Credo Assurance has launched its sustainability assurance service. The firm will provide assurance on ESG disclosures, assess internal data controls, and advise on alignment with recognised frameworks such as GRI, ISSB, TCFD, and SASB. In addition, the service covers climate audit and reporting, ESG data verification, and training programmes to help companies integrate sustainability practices into daily operations.

Credo Assurance’s new offering aims to support a wide spectrum of organisations, from listed companies preparing for upcoming SGX requirements to SMEs participating in global supply chains. Industries with significant environmental or social footprints, such as energy, construction, manufacturing, transport, and real estate, are expected to benefit most from independent verification. These services also extend to firms seeking ESG-linked financing or those aiming to enhance their brand credibility and investor trust through transparent reporting.

Shaping the Future of ESG Assurance in Singapore
As Singapore moves toward mandatory climate-related disclosures in 2025, ESG assurance is set to become essential in the audit and accounting sector. Independent verification of non-financial information, such as carbon emissions, labour practices, or governance metrics, helps ensure sustainability reports present accountable and measurable performance.

“ESG assurance is the next evolution of trust in business reporting,” said Mr Ong. “It applies the principles of audit integrity to sustainability, enabling companies to demonstrate both their financial performance and their broader responsibility to society and the environment.”
Hashtag: #CredoAssurance #AccountingFirmSingapore #ESGAssurance


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

About Credo Assurance

Credo Assurance LLP is an ACRA-registered public in Singapore. They provide audit, accounting, and advisory services to both businesses and individuals, helping clients navigate complex regulatory requirements and economic challenges.

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Understanding Credit Exemptions at SIM: A Guide for Polytechnic and SIM GE Diploma Graduates

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – For Polytechnic and SIM GE diploma graduates aspiring to pursue a degree, one common consideration is the time required to complete their studies. SIM Global Education (SIM GE) offers credit exemptions and advanced standing options that may shorten the duration of selected programmes, subject to prior qualifications and programme-specific requirements.

Understanding Credit Exemptions

Credit exemptions enable students to receive recognition for modules previously completed during prior studies. This eliminates the need to repeat similar content, allowing eligible students to focus on new areas of learning. This practice, widely adopted in higher education, ensures students build upon existing knowledge while meeting the academic standards of their chosen degree programme.

Eligibility and Assessment

Credit exemptions at SIM GE are not granted automatically. Each application undergoes a rigorous evaluation to maintain academic integrity. The assessment considers several factors, including the relevance of previous qualifications to the chosen degree, the level and content of prior modules compared to the programme requirements, and the accreditation and recognition of the awarding institution. Through these measures, SIM GE ensures flexibility for students with diverse educational backgrounds while upholding academic excellence.

Types of Exemptions Available

SIM offers several pathways for credit exemptions, depending on prior qualifications and programme requirements. Holders of relevant Polytechnic or equivalent diplomas may receive exemptions that can reduce the overall study duration by up to one year, subject to programme-specific criteria and GPA requirements. Students who have completed SIM GE diplomas or other recognized qualifications may be eligible for advanced standing when enrolling in selected partner university programmes offered through SIM Global Education. For applicants with qualifications outside standard frameworks, exemptions are assessed individually on a case-by-case basis to ensure alignment with academic standards and programme requirements.

Key Information for Applicants

Credit exemptions are designed to acknowledge prior learning while ensuring that all students meet the academic standards of their chosen programme. They are not guaranteed and vary based on factors such as the relevance of previous qualifications, programme requirements, and institutional recognition. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific exemption policies for their intended programme and seek guidance from SIM Counsellors to understand their options.

References:

  1. SIM GE University Partners – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

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30 Million Strong: China Changan Automobile Group Hits Historic Production Milestone, Ushering in New Era of User-Centric, Tech-Driven Global Growth

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CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – China Changan Automobile Group today celebrated a historic achievement as its 30 millionth vehicle—an AVATR 12 Quad-Laser Edition—rolled off the line at the AVATR Digital Intelligence Factory. The milestone signals Changan’s evolution into a global intelligent mobility technology company.

“Changan remains committed to delivering smarter, greener, and more fulfilling mobility, meeting the aspirations of global users for a better future.” said Zhu Huarong, Chairman of China Changan Automobile Group.

Uncompromising Safety: The “Safe Journey Home”

Safety is Changan’s top priority, a commitment dating back to 1999 with China’s first minivan crash test. Since then, the company has advanced its protective capabilities from passive safety structures to today’s active safety interventions. Backed by the industry’s only State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Vehicle Safety Technology, Changan uses its proprietary CA-ITVS verification system to subject vehicles to over 5 million kilometers of testing—guaranteeing a lifespan of 10 years or 260,000 kilometers.

In the smart era, Changan is redefining protection with its newly launched “SDA Intelligence”. Moving beyond physical defense, SDA Intelligence introduces a holistic safety ecosystem that secures both passengers and their data, ensuring a “Safe Journey Home” in every dimension.

Tech-Driven: Innovations That Matter

Driven by its Green and Intelligent strategies, Changan is bringing tangible innovations to market. The Green Plan targets electrification, battery safety, and new energy vehicle ecosystems, while the Intelligent Plan advances vehicle intelligence, autonomous systems, and connectivity. Key breakthroughs include the Golden Shield Battery system for superior safety, and the high-frequency pulse heating for cold-weather efficiency. The BlueCore 3.0 powertrain delivers hybrid and ICE solutions, balancing high performance with exceptional fuel economy. These technologies ensure that every journey is efficient and reliable.

A Bold Future: Smart Mobility and Global Reach

Looking ahead to 2030, Changan has unveiled a visionary roadmap to rank among the world’s top 10 automotive brands with annual sales of 5 million units. By 2030, Changan expects over 60% of sales to be new energy vehicles and 30% to come from overseas markets, solidifying its place on the world stage.

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

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