Media OutReach
‘AI godfather’ sounds the alarm on growing risks in the AI race
Double-edged sword
Since the beginning of 2025, the rise of DeepSeek has been described as a “black swan” moment creating a game-changing shift in an AI landscape almost overnight. It is a wake-up call showing that powerful AI can be achieved without exorbitant costs, challenging the prevailing “money equals progress” model.
Regarding this, Yoshua Bengio, often regarded as “one of the godfathers of modern AI,” warned that its breakthrough in AI affordability could pose serious risks.
“If open-weight AI models, like DeepSeek, are distributed completely, terrorists may exploit them for disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, or even bioweapon development,” he stated in an interview with VinFuture Foundation. “This is a double-edged sword because while these systems become more available, cheaper, and more powerful, they also lower the barrier to misuse.”
Yoshua Bengio, a pioneer in neural networks and deep learning algorithms, has been recognized with numerous prestigious international awards, including the 2018 A.M. Turing Award, the 2024 VinFuture Grand Prize, and most recently, the 2025 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering. He emphasized that AI is evolving toward greater autonomy, with systems capable of planning and acting in pursuit of a goal. “Today, AI already surpasses humans in certain domains. It can master hundreds of languages and pass PhD-level exams across multiple disciplines“, he explained.
Despite these current limitations in long-term planning abilities, major technology corporations have thrown billions of dollars into developing AI agents capable of autonomous decision-making over extended periods. While this promises efficiency gains, it raises concerns about large-scale job displacement.
Beyond economic shifts, a far more critical issue looms – the loss of human control over AI. In controlled experiments, some AI systems have even engaged in deceptive behavior to prevent being shut down – a troubling sign of self-preservation tendencies.
“This is alarming because we don’t want machines that will compete with us,” he emphasized.
According to Bengio, while they are not yet intelligent enough to pose a major threat, this trajectory is concerning.
“In a few years, they might be sufficiently smarter and we need to start paying attention before it is too late,” Bengio warned.
Coupled with technical risks, AI presents a profound threat to privacy and civil liberties. Recently, a comprehensive International AI Safety report, chaired by Yoshua Bengio and compiled by 96 experts from 30 countries and organizations (including the UN, EU, and OECD) to guide policymakers on AI safety, revealed the growing potential for AI misuse in malicious activities.
Bengio noted that AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data can empower individuals, corporations, or governments with unprecedented control. Given AI’s uncertain future, he shared that the way humans manage AIs in the future will be central to preventing this scenario. “We need to make sure that no single person, no single corporation, and no single government can have total power over super intelligent AI,” he emphasized.
Advances by the Chinese startup DeepSeek could further intensify the AI race among superpowers, raising a worrying development in a field dominated by the Silicon Valley and large Western tech companies in recent years.
“The danger here is that in their race to outpace each other, safety issues might be overlooked. We can be all the victims of this race if we are not careful enough,” Bengio cautioned.
Moreover, the intensifying race is expected to drive profound environmental consequences, particularly in energy consumption. Major AI companies, pushed by the prospect of massive profits, are willing to absorb high energy costs. This surge in demand will inevitably drive-up energy prices across the board, including electricity, oil, and other resources, affecting not just tech firms but households and industries worldwide.
This is where unchecked market forces and national competition could lead to global losses. “That is why government intervention is crucial. Policymakers must negotiate agreements that cap energy consumption at sustainable levels. Otherwise, the forces of competition between companies will only accelerate AI expansion in ways that are not just unsustainable but potentially dangerous,” Bengio urged.
Bridging the AI divide
The godfather of AI has raised urgent calls to establish robust ethical frameworks and regulatory measures to ensure responsible development and deployment.
“Currently, there is essentially no regulatory framework almost anywhere in the countries where these systems are being developed. I think the governments have a responsibility to at least require a kind of reporting to them,” he said.
Responsibility is another key aspect. In many countries, legal principles hold companies accountable for products that cause harm. However, when it comes to software, liability remains a grey area, according to Bengio. “Clarifying liability laws would be a simple but effective step. If companies knew they could face lawsuits for negligence, they would have stronger incentives to manage risks properly,” he asserted.
He also emphasized that it would require a concerted effort from individuals and institutions who recognize the existential risks, like catastrophic malicious use. Elsewhere, concerns over job security and future employment opportunities loom. “The timeline for this shift is uncertain, but we could see radical transformations within five to ten years,” Bengio predicted.
While some jobs will inevitably be replaced by automation, Bengio emphasized that not all professions are equally at risk. “Expanding digital and AI education is essential, but it will not be a universal solution. Not everyone can become an AI engineer,” he noted. Instead, roles that require emotional intelligence and human interaction, including healthcare professionals, therapists, and managers, are more likely to endure. Rather than individual adaptation, Bengio poses a larger question: Can AI deployment be deliberately shaped to minimize disruption?
“Again, this is something that has to be done globally, which is very challenging. We should do it in a way that does not create radical disruptions in the social fabric,” he concluded.
Beyond national regulations, Bengio stressed the need for global coordination. He highlighted eventually, humans should aim for global agreements and treaties, similar to how we handle other scientific and technological risks. As AI rapidly reshapes industries, new divides in wealth, job displacement, or political power could deepen unless proactive measures are taken. Bengio warned that AI is currently concentrated in the hands of a few corporations and nations.
He took Vietnam, a country with a strong industrial sector, as an example. If widespread automation shifts production to AI-powered facilities in wealthier nations like the US, it could lead to significant job losses and economic hardship in countries dependent on manufacturing exports.
Therefore, Bengio suggested establishing global negotiations – a form of exchange in which countries developing advanced AI might ask other countries to refrain from creating potentially dangerous AI. In return, the wealth generated by these AI systems, like new technologies and medical advancements, should be shared globally.
“Of course, we are very far from this, but we need to start those discussions at a global level,” he emphasized.
The first step toward bridging the AI divide is fostering collaboration between emerging economies and technologically advanced nations. Bengio highlighted the importance of initiatives like the VinFuture Prize, which draws global attention to scientific advancements in regions outside the traditional tech powerhouses.
“A big prize like the VinFuture Prize can make leading scientists far more aware of what is happening in Vietnam and other developing countries,” he explained.
Countries such as Vietnam, India, and Brazil already possess strong talent pools and growing expertise in AI. By forming strategic partnerships with resource-rich nations like Canada and European countries, they can develop competitive AI projects on a global scale. Such collaborations, if carefully structured, could ensure a more equitable distribution of technological power, according to Bengio.
Moreover, Bengio stressed the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry. “By recognizing and supporting breakthrough innovations, VinFuture Prize encourages deeper collaboration between scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers, as well as fosters global dialogue on responsible AI,” he said.
The VinFuture Foundation, established on International Human Solidarity Day on December 20th, 2020, is a non-profit organization co-founded by billionaire Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong and his wife, Mrs. Pham Thu Huong. The Foundation’s core activity is awarding the annual VinFuture Prize, which recognizes transformative scientific and technological innovations capable of making significant positive changes in the lives of millions of people worldwide.
The nomination period for the 2025 VinFuture Prize will close at 2:00 PM on April 17, 2025 (Vietnam time, GMT+7).
The VinFuture Prize consists of four prestigious awards presented each year. The most esteemed is the VinFuture Grand Prize, valued at US$3 million, making it one of the largest annual prizes globally. Additionally, there are three Special Prizes, each valued at US$500,000, specifically dedicated to honoring women innovators, innovators from developing countries, and innovators with outstanding achievements in emerging fields.
https://vinfutureprize.org/vinfuture-prize-nomination/
Hashtag: #VinFuture
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Park Lane Hong Kong on 16–17 MayCaption
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Hong Kong this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Park Lane Hong Kong (Canvas, 26F) on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Hong Kong buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.
The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Hong Kong remaining one of the Group’s most consistent source markets.
The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.
“Hong Kong has consistently been one of our strongest buyer markets, and we look forward to welcoming buyers in person to discover what we believe is an exceptional line-up of new homes,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Hong Kong or other major cities.”
Bellaguna Lake Residences
Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.
Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.
Bellaguna Golf Residences
Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.
Angsana Golf Residences Topaz
Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.
All three projects now have show units available to view at Laguna Property Sales Gallery
Banyan Living
Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.
Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.
Why Phuket, Why Now
Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.
Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.
Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Park Lane Hong Kong, Canvas (26F), on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket #PhuketProperty
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Banyan Group
Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.
About Laguna Phuket
Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.
About Banyan Group Residences
Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.
The event marked the first international debut of two insurance companies within Techcombank’s ecosystem — Techcom Life (life insurance) and Techcom Insurance (non-life insurance). Both entities are positioned to build a new generation of insurance, anchored in data, technology, and customer-centricity.
The roadshow featured senior leadership from across the ecosystem, including Mr. Pranav Seth, Chairman of Techcom Insurance; Mr. Mukesh Pilania, Chief Executive Officer of Techcom Life; and Ms. Veo Nguyen, Chief People Officer of Techcombank, alongside other executives leading key functions in technology, distribution, and product development.
Discussions at the event focused on Vietnam’s economic outlook and the evolving role of insurance in its next phase of development. Speakers highlighted the industry’s transition from traditional, product-led models toward data-driven, technology-enabled, and personalized approaches, with increasing emphasis on customer experience and long-term engagement.
Participants engaged in in-depth exchanges with the leadership team, gaining insights into Vietnam’s insurance landscape as well as a clearer understanding of the vision and long-term aspirations behind Techcombank’s newly established insurance businesses. The sessions reflected growing international interest in Vietnam as a high-potential market undergoing structural transformation.
Techcom Life, the group’s life insurance arm, has demonstrated strong early momentum, achieving a trajectory within six months and ranking No.1 in the bancassurance market in Q1 2026. Meanwhile, Techcom Insurance served over 650,000 customers in 2025 through a nationwide network of 280 branches and more than 3,500 sales professionals, reflecting its growing scale in the non-life insurance segment.
Hong Kong, one of Asia’s leading insurance hubs, is part of Techcombank’s broader international roadmap, following previous engagements in Singapore, the United States, Europe, and Australia.
Techcombank plans to continue the Overseas Insurance Talent Roadshow across additional global markets in 2026, as part of its strategy to attract international talent and support the development of a next-generation insurance ecosystem in Vietnam.
Hashtag: #Techcombank
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Apple Storage Unveils Hong Kong’s First 17,000 sq. ft. IP-Themed Flagship Concept Store in Tsuen Wan, Featuring Exclusive VIP Lounge
In addition to specialized storage solutions—including dedicated units for clothing, collectibles, books, and bicycle parking—the facility features a groundbreaking VIP Lounge. Customers can enjoy complimentary access to massage chairs and co-working spaces, extending the storage experience into a lifestyle enjoyment. Apple Storage is committed to transforming storage from a utility into an exclusive clubhouse, allowing customers to free up home space while fully immersing themselves in hobbies such as outdoor activities or art collection.
Business-Grade Work Facilities
The branch features a dedicated co-working space equipped with computers, printing facilities, workstations, and charging points. Customers can conveniently handle business or personal administrative tasks, such as printing documents or conducting online research, directly on-site.
Party Room-Style Entertainment
To make the storage process relaxing and enjoyable, Apple Storage has equipped the VIP Lounge with professional massage chairs for immediate post-task stress relief. The Group has upgraded the facilities to rival a “Party Room” environment, featuring billiards, television, and Nintendo Switch consoles. This allows family members to stay entertained while customers manage their storage units at their own pace.
The lounge also includes a spacious communal table, perfect for assembling intricate models or playing board games. Guests can enjoy complimentary coffee and various beverages from the self-service refreshment counter, turning a cold warehouse into a private sanctuary for family time.
Comprehensive Storage Amenities
The facility is equipped with 24-hour support, climate and humidity control, CCTV, smart access control, and regular staff patrols to ensure maximum safety and comfort. Additional amenities such as packing zones, trolleys, and bicycle repair tools are provided for customer convenience. Customers can retreat to the leisure area or VIP lounge whenever they need a break.
Over 120 Branches: Hong Kong’s Leader in Regulatory Compliance
With deep roots in Hong Kong since 2005, Apple Storage has expanded to over 120 branches, serving more than 100,000 customers. Recognizing that safety is always the clients’ top priority, Apple Storage adheres to the highest standards of compliant operations. As an industry leader, Apple Storage maintains close communication with the Buildings Department and the Fire Services Department. Apple Storage takes pride in having the largest network of branches in Hong Kong that have successfully passed inspections by both departments. The Group pledges to continue upgrading fire safety facilities in line with government guidelines to ensure total peace of mind for every customer.
A New Era of Smart Storage: Integrating AI Technology
Apple Storage Group continues to invest heavily in integrating smart technology into its services. Hardware upgrades, including facial recognition systems and smart sensor lighting, have been rolled out across all branches to enhance security and energy efficiency.
On the innovation front, Apple Storage has developed a proprietary Customer Matching System. Utilizing AI data analysis, the system creates tailor-made storage solutions for clients, driving the business toward full digitalization. Currently, the Group is developing an “AI Smart Warehouse” project, which will apply cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence to unit management and customer interaction, signaling a new future for the industry.
Professional & Transparent: One-Stop Moving Team
Apple Storage offers a comprehensive “one-stop” moving and storage service, managed by the Group’s professional brand, APPLE MOVING. The team handles everything from general moving to third-party delivery and pickup. To ensure maximum protection, the team provides packing materials—such as boxes and bubble wrap—in advance of the moving date.
Unlike many local independent movers, Apple Moving operates under a transparent corporate management model. With strict service guidelines and a standardized quoting system, the Group guarantees transparent pricing and strictly prohibits “on-site price hikes” or the solicitation of tips, providing customers with a reliable brand guarantee.
Two Decades of Excellence: Recipient of the “10th Year Award for Hong Kong Service Brand”
Since opening its first branch in 2005, Apple Storage has accompanied Hong Kong families and businesses for over 20 years. Today, with branches in every corner of the city, Apple Storage’s commitment to a “premium environment” and “reliable service” remains unchanged.
The company’s professionalism has earned widespread market recognition, including five consecutive years of Quality Service Certification from the Hong Kong Retail Management Association (HKRMA). In 2026, the Group was honored with the “10th Year Award for Hong Kong Service Brand” by the Hong Kong Brand Development Council. These accolades reflect the trust of over 100,000 customers.
Multi-Brand Synergy: A Comprehensive Storage Ecosystem
The Group’s portfolio includes Apple Storage Premium, U SPACE, Apple Moving, and Apple Wine Cellar, providing a diverse range of integrated storage solutions. From flexible self-storage and professionally managed central storage to door-to-door storage and point-to-point logistics, current services cover every user need.
Apple Storage offers various sizes and specialized units, such as climate-controlled storage for clothing and sneakers, display units for toys, specialized bicycle racks, and flexible shelving units, creating bespoke space solutions for every client.
Driving ESG Strategy for a Green Future
Apple Storage Group has actively implemented ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies in recent years. Regarding Environmental Protection, Apple Storage is transitioning to sensor-based energy-saving systems and prioritizing appliances with “Grade 1 Energy Labels.” Apple Storage’s own headquarters has also gone paperless through comprehensive digitalization.
In terms of Social Responsibility, the “Apple Volunteer Team” has collaborated with charities for years to support the underprivileged. Looking ahead, Apple Storage has set clear sustainability goals: a commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 10% within three years and increased investment in philanthropy, including pro-bono moving services and storage space donations. Recently, Apple Storage collaborated with a charity to provide free storage and moving services for residents of Wang Fuk Court, Tai Po, assisting them during their relocation and home clearing process.
Hashtag: #AppleStorage
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Apple Storage
With over 120 branches across Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories, Apple Storage offers professional, compliant, and reliable services. Most branches are conveniently located near MTR stations.
Act Now – Reclaim Your Living Space.
Learn more about our latest offers: https://www.applestorage.com.hk/en/
Inquiry Hotline: 8208 9822
WhatsApp: 
https://wa.me/46383118
-
Feature/OPED6 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism10 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking8 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy3 years agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking3 years agoSort Codes of UBA Branches in Nigeria
-
Banking3 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports3 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn