Media OutReach
Accessing healthcare is a hassle, Asia’s patients reveal: Prudential commissioned study
Complicated access to healthcare and a lack of guidance are keeping patients from receiving the care they need, when they need it
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2025 – Patients in Asia want minimal disruption to their daily life when seeking medical care. This is according to research from Economist Impact commissioned by Prudential plc (“Prudential”). “Patient voices: experiences of healthcare access in Asia”, examines how people in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore access and experience healthcare services.
The study conducted between April-May 2025 draws on a survey of more than 4,200 patients and interviews with leading experts. The report reveals that thousands of people in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore believe getting medical care is a hassle, with more than eight in 10 people admitting they delay seeking care.
Asian patients highlight three main “pain points”:
- Getting medical help is confusing: 55 per cent of respondents say they don’t know where to access care when they have health concerns. They report difficulties with booking appointments, long wait times, and complex payment processes.
- Costs are high and unclear: One-third say the cost of healthcare is often higher than they expected. Nearly five in 10 turn to social safety nets such as family, charities, loans, or crowdfunding. For the 80% of respondents who report they have delayed getting care, the fear of becoming a financial or care burden on loved ones was the most frequently cited reason for the delay, mentioned by 22 per cent.
- Patients aren’t getting the information they need: 55 per cent of patients say they don’t have the right information to make decisions about their medical treatment, with almost 40 per cent saying they use digital tools including artificial intelligence (AI) for treatment guidance after initial diagnosis.
Arjan Toor, CEO, Health at Prudential plc, says, “Asia’s patients want healthcare systems that work for them – that feel simple and easy to access, and capable of providing timely care. At Prudential, we believe this is where we can make the biggest difference to our customers’ peace of mind; by being there for them the moment they become a patient, and by guiding them at every step of their diagnosis, treatment and recovery. This means working closely with our healthcare partners to ensure patients feel understood and supported, while also doing our part to make the costs of healthcare clear and predictable. By making healthcare worry-free and hassle-free for people across Asia, we can help patients focus on what matters – getting better.”
Patients need clearer help to find the right care
Patients say the number one factor that brings them peace of mind when seeking care is minimal disruption to daily life. Yet nearly 60 per cent find visiting a general practitioner (GP) inconvenient. They report that it is hard to get an appointment, and they find billing and insurance confusing.
Patients delay care because of unexpected costs and financial risk taken on by families
Asia’s patients say the second most important factor for peace of mind is knowing they will be able to pay for their care. Yet many are caught off guard by hidden or unexpected charges, for example for specialist consultations, administrative fees or medication. According to the survey, such unexpected costs are among the top five barriers to accessing care.
Formal payment mechanisms, such as government-subsidised care or public health insurance, are commonly used in Hong Kong and Singapore, while in Malaysia and Indonesia, many patients resort to alternative sources, such as loans and crowdfunding, to cover their bills. Others may delay care because they are worried about losing earnings or becoming a financial burden on their families. In Indonesia, for example, 93 per cent of patients reported delaying care.
Patients increasingly trust digital sources to guide treatment decisions after diagnosis
Following a diagnosis, almost 40 per cent of patients turn to digital sources, such as AI, when making decisions about their care. This reflects patients’ desire to fill gaps in their knowledge and highlights a crucial need for trustworthy online resources.
Shaping healthcare around what patients need
Improving access to healthcare will require providers, insurers, governments, technology innovators and public sectors to work together. The report outlines that creating more transparent pricing, clearer processes, and increased digital access to information will make accessing care easier and more personal so that patients feel supported every step of the way.Hashtag: #Prudential
https://www.prudentialplc.com/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the report
Patient voices: experiences of healthcare access Asia is an Economist Impact report, commissioned by Prudential. It examines individuals’ experience in accessing healthcare services in four Asian markets: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The analysis is based on a survey of 4,302 people conducted in April to May in 2025.
The full report can be accessed here.
About Prudential plc
Prudential provides life and health insurance and asset management in Greater China, ASEAN, India and Africa. Prudential’s mission is to be the most trusted partner and protector for this generation and generations to come, by providing simple and accessible financial and health solutions. The business has dual primary listings on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (HKEX: 2378) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: PRU). It also has a secondary listing on the Singapore Stock Exchange (SGX: K6S) and a listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: PUK) in the form of American Depositary Receipts. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and is also included for trading in the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme and the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme.
Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.
About Economist Impact
Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. We believe that evidence-based insights can open debate, broaden perspectives and catalyse progress. The services offered by Economist Impact previously existed within The Economist Group as separate entities, including EIU Thought Leadership, EIU Public Policy, Economist Events, EI Studios and SignalNoise.
Our track record spans 75 years across 205 countries. Along with creative storytelling, events expertise, design-thinking solutions and market-leading media products, we produce framework design, benchmarking, economic and social impact analysis, forecasting and scenario modelling. This makes Economist Impact’s offering unique in the marketplace. Visit www.impact.economist.com for more information.
Media OutReach
Sun Group debuts at SITF 2026 with exclusive Phu Quoc flight deals and a fresh vision for Vietnam tourism
A special highlight is Sun Group’s unveiling of its new development vision for Phu Quoc in the lead‑up to APEC 2027, presented directly to Korean partners and visitors.
From the first day of the fair, Sun Group’s booth has welcomed a steady stream of visitors. Throughout the four-day event, the booth has organized B2B and B2C networking activities, customer consultations, and introductions to tourism, resort, and aviation products. Interactive programs, including mini-games, souvenir giveaways, and tailored offers for the Korean market, have kept the atmosphere lively for hours, with a continuous flow of engaged visitors.
During SITF (June 4–7), travelers have the opportunity to receive a 20% discount on the base fare when booking Sun PhuQuoc Airways tickets via the airline’s website or app. The offer applies to the Korean market for one‑way or round‑trip journeys from Korea to Phu Quoc. Limited to 200 Economy Class discount codes, it is valid for flights from June 15 to October 24, 2026 (excluding peak periods as defined by the airline).
Visitors also have the chance to win attractive prizes through booth activities, including free round‑trip air tickets on the Seoul–Phu Quoc route (ICN–PQC) and resort vouchers at hotels within Sun Group’s ecosystem.
By combining destination promotion with airline incentives, Sun Group aims to further encourage South Korean tourists to choose Vietnam for their upcoming holidays, especially Phu Quoc, which is entering a new era of large‑scale investments in projects, products, and experiences all aimed at APEC 2027.
Hashtag: #SunGroup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Sun Group
Vietnam’s leading private economic group, Sun Group operates an integrated ecosystem spanning tourism, entertainment, hospitality, real estate, infrastructure, and aviation. Guided by the mission “Enhancing the beauty of the lands,” the Group shapes iconic destinations nationwide through its Sun World entertainment brand. In the aviation sector, Sun Group develops a hub-and-spoke model anchored by Phu Quoc, driven by strategic airport investments and Sun PhuQuoc Airways.
Media OutReach
Technology + Scenario + Supply Chain = A New Benchmark for Regional Zero-Carbon Smart Transportation
Wing Kai New Energy X QIJI Energy X C&D Hi-Tech
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 June 2026 – The 19th (2026) International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Exhibition & Conference (SNEC 2026) was grandly held from June 3 to 5, 2026, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Attracting over 3,000 exhibitors from 95 countries worldwide, the event stands as the largest and most influential professional grand gathering for the photovoltaic and energy storage sectors across Asia and globally.
During the exhibition, Mr. Yiu Wang Lee, Chairman of the Board of Wing Lee Development Construction Holdings Limited (“Wing Lee” or the “Group”, stock code: 9639.HK); Mr. Cai Huihui, General Manager of Wing Kai New Energy Technology Co., Limited (“Wing Kai New Energy”); Mr. Wang Yi, Key Account Manager of QIJI Energy; Mr. Xu Jun, Overseas Energy Storage Commercial Director of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL); and Mr. You Yuxian, ASEAN Regional Energy Storage Sales Director of CATL, jointly visited the exhibition booth of C&D Hi-Tech. The delegation engaged in in-depth discussions with the team led by General Manager Mr. Zhan Shengli, focusing on battery swapping station projects in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. By integrating multi-party resources, the teams successfully finalized and signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement.
Through this signing, the three parties will join forces to address and resolve the industry pain points of overseas markets regarding regulatory compliance, engineering infrastructure, and supply chain coordination. The collaboration represents a deep integration of QIJI Energy’s cutting-edge battery swapping solutions, Wing Kai New Energy’s localized infrastructure and operational capabilities across Hong Kong and Shenzhen, and C&D Hi-Tech’s robust global resource allocation strengths. Moving from single-project development to an ecosystem of mutual win-win, this partnership will significantly enhance the delivery efficiency of green energy across Hong Kong, Macau, and the Southeast Asian region, setting a brand-new benchmark for regional zero-carbon smart transportation.
As a subsidiary of Wing Lee, Wing Kai New Energy has been rooted in Hong Kong since its inception while radiating its presence globally, deeply cultivating sustainable clean energy solutions. Addressing the acute pain points in the Greater Bay Area and Southeast Asian markets, where rapid fluctuations in energy prices have led to surging cost pressures for logistics distribution enterprises, Wing Kai New Energy will focus on urban distribution logistics battery swapping businesses in the future. The company plans to integrate site resources, infrastructure, and operations to fill the gap in regional infrastructure. We firmly believe that this cooperation will effectively bridge the cross-border green energy eco-link, accelerate the construction of a green energy service network, and contribute solidly to the realization of the “dual carbon” goals. Meanwhile, we sincerely invite more partners to join the Zero-Carbon Smart Alliance to jointly advance sustainable development.
Hashtag: #WingLee
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Wing Lee Development Construction Holdings Limited
Deeply rooted in Hong Kong, Wing Lee is an established contractor engaged in civil engineering, electrical and mechanical engineering, and new energy businesses, and has participated in various large-scale landmark projects in Hong Kong. The Group’s civil engineering business specialized in site formation waterworks as well as road and drainage works, while its electrical and mechanical engineering business specializes in power system-related projects and emergency maintenance works. In recent years, the Group has actively expanded into the new energy sector, undertaking solar photovoltaic projects, distributing various electric commercial vehicles and electric construction machinery, and engaging in the construction and subsequent maintenance of charging piles, battery swapping, recycling, and energy storage businesses. In 2025, Wing Lee Construction, together with SANY Group Co., Ltd. and CATL, among other industry giants, founded the “Zero-Carbon Smart Alliance” to develop full-industry-chain solutions for photovoltaics, energy storage, charging and battery swapping, and smart applications in green transportation.
The delegation of over 70 business and institutional leaders from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland is the largest and most diverse overseas mission led by the current term of the HKSAR Government so far.
Speaking to the media in Uzbekistan yesterday (June 4), Mr Lee set out the three main objectives of the visit: further explore emerging markets and lay the foundation for long-term economic and trade development; strengthen government-to-government (G2G) relationships and promote closer bilateral co-operation; and build a “hub-to-hub” model of co-operation.
He said the visit had been successful, yielding achievements in eight areas, including:
- Establishing high-level contacts and ties between the HKSAR Government and the Governments of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, and reaching consensus on co-operation in multiple areas;
- A total of 96 co-operation agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were reached during the visit (61 with Kazakhstan, 35 with Uzbekistan), involving specific amounts exceeding US$1.65 billion in total;
- The governments agreed to commence bilateral discussions on agreements in various areas;
- Deepening project matching and research collaboration between Hong Kong and Central Asian region in areas including finance, innovation and technology (I&T), and aviation;
- Demonstrating Hong Kong’s effective role as a platform for going global and achieving substantial results, with Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises joining forces in tapping new markets and bringing synergistic advantages into full play;
- Facilitating more convenient people-to-people exchanges by promoting direct flights, aviation and transport co-operation, and extensions to the mutual visa-free period;
- Promoting exchanges in education, talent and culture to further deepen people-to-people bonds; and
- Advancing a hub-to-hub co-operation model to open up broader room for co-operation between Hong Kong and the Central Asian region.
While in Tashkent (June 3-5), Mr Lee met with local leaders, government officials and business representatives to deepen co-operation between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan in areas including trade, investment, finance, I&T, and people-to-people exchanges.
Mr Lee held meetings with the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev, his Advisor on Strategic Development, Sardor Umurzakov, the Prime Minister, Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov, as well as the Deputy Prime Minister, Jamshid Khodjayev, to exchange views on furthering mutual co-operation.
Mr Lee highlighted that under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. He said that Hong Kong would continue to play its roles as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” to further deepen co-operation and exchanges with Uzbekistan on various fronts in line with Uzbekistan’s goal of achieving high-quality development.
Earlier (June 3), Mr Lee met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, after which they jointly witnessed an exchange of notes between the two places on a mutual visa-free arrangement, which would allow a visa-free period of 30 days for visitors from both sides.
“Moreover, we are glad to have initialed the Air Services Agreement with Uzbekistan, and look forward to launching direct passenger flights between the two places soon,” Mr Lee said, during a high-level business dinner (June 4). The Chief Executive pointed out that Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are important trade and investment gateways to their respective regions – the Asia-Pacific and Central Asia.
“It helps that we are all believers in the Belt and Road (B&R) Initiative, a modern expression of the ancient Silk Road spirit,” Mr Lee said. “Today, China is Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner, and the two countries work closely on major infrastructure and connectivity projects that are revitalising the Silk Road. Hong Kong is a pivotal player in the B&R Initiative, thanks to our world-class professional and financial services expertise.”
The delegation also toured the IT Park Uzbekistan and the Center for Islamic Civilization before concluding its visit in Tashkent.
Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #CentralAsia #Kazakhstan #Uzbekistan
https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-hong-kong/
https://x.com/Brand_HK/
https://www.facebook.com/brandhk.isd
https://www.instagram.com/brandhongkong
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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