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“AI with HKPC” Smart AI Solutions Showcase Series Grandly Opens Focusing on SMEs, Education, and Smart Property Nearly 100 AI Solutions Lead Industrial Transformation
To expand AI application scenarios and enhance enterprises’ competitiveness, the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is hosting the inaugural “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, which officially opens today. Professor SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, and the Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman, Hong Kong Productivity Council, officiated at the opening ceremony, underscoring the Government’s and the industry’s shared determination to drive the broader adoption of AI applications. Registration for the event has been enthusiastic, with over 3,000 representatives from the Government, industry, academia and research communities expected to attend, reflecting the “AI for all” trend and strong market demand for digital solutions.
The three-day event focuses on three major themes, including empowering SMEs, digitalised education, and smart property, showcasing nearly 100 ready-to-deploy AI solutions covering diverse scenarios such as operations management, customer interaction, school administration and teaching, and building maintenance. It marks AI’s shift from concept demonstrations to real-world deployment, injecting practical momentum into Hong Kong’s new industrialisation and smart city development.
Professor SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, said: “AI is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace. Hong Kong, with its unique strengths in research foundation, international talent pool and open market environment, provides the ideal soil for advancing the industrialisation of AI. The HKSAR Government has been promoting the development of AI in a comprehensive manner across research, computing power, data, talent and funding. HKPC also actively assists enterprises in mastering AI technologies and enhancing AI governance, not only laying a solid foundation for application by businesses, but also nurturing digitally skilled talent with a vision for the future and driving the continuous upgrading of industries. HKPC has long supported and worked closely with the HKSAR Government in advancing innovation and technology development. Let us continue to work hand in hand and seize opportunities, and jointly propel Hong Kong to become a leading pioneer of smart transformation in Asia”.
The Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman of Hong Kong Productivity Council, said: “HKPC actively responds to the national ’15th Five-Year Plan’ recommendation and fully supports the HKSAR Government’s direction of promoting the deep integration and application innovation of AI across various industries. This showcase aims to build a transformation bridge from ‘seeing’ to ‘doing’, not only demonstrating the broad potential of AI technologies, but also providing actionable and scalable pathways to help enterprises extend pilot projects into full-scale deployment, thereby realising AI-driven industry transformation.” He further noted, “As AI adoption accelerates, robust cyber security protection is the foundation for responsible AI use. According to the latest report from the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre, local cyber security incidents in 2025 rose by 27% year-on-year, reaching a record high. HKPC will continue supporting enterprises in building a secure and trustworthy AI application environment, so the industry can innovate with confidence and transform with assurance.”
The “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series focuses on four common pain points enterprises face during AI transformation, which is “integration challenges, insufficient funding, security concerns, and talent shortage”. Guided by the philosophy of “technology as a bridge, industry as the foundation,” HKPC promotes the popularisation and industrialisation of AI applications. Through the showcase, local SMEs can gain deeper understanding of practical AI use cases across business operations, while also accessing a series of technical solutions and services. HKPC’s self-developed multipurpose AI platform “HKPC Picasso,” aims to respond to the “integration challenges” commonly faced by most enterprises in AI transformation, with “ease of use” as the core concept, providing an end-to-end and executable AI transformation support system for the common needs of different industries. It currently offers six large language model (LLM) modules, over 30 commonly used functional modules, and around 40 applications, supporting rapid development and deployment of smart solutions. This significantly lowers development costs and technical barriers, enabling enterprises to deploy and launch customised AI systems within several weeks. The platform makes AI more accessible, empowering SMEs to kick-start smartification transformation with ease.
HKPC also provides AI Governance and Testing Services to help enterprises address “security concerns”. The services cover AI governance framework design, ethics and compliance review, data privacy assessment, AI content and model security testing, as well as enhancements to model transparency, supporting enterprises in optimising AI systems to meet international standards and establishing a sustainable and responsible AI application framework. In addition, to tackle the “talent shortage” pain point, HKPC offers supporting AI-related training courses to strengthen enterprises’ understanding and practical capabilities in AI application. This helps build a solid foundation for AI transformation while ensuring safety, compliance and public trust throughout technological development.
“AI with HKPC” Nearly 100 Hands-on, Ready-to-Deploy AI Use Cases Across Three Themes
1) Empowering SMEs for the AI Era Solution Day (5–6 February)
Aligned with the 2025 Policy Address direction of supporting SMEs in digitalisation and smartification transformation, the showcase features five exhibition zones, presenting “ready-to-use, fast-impact, low-barrier” AI solutions such as AI-powered accounting, process automation, intelligent customer service, and collaboration tools. These solutions cover operations, infrastructure, security, marketing and talent management. The showcase also introduces AI applications incubated through the “HKPC Picasso” platform and HKPC’s AI governance services, helping SMEs explore transformation pathways based on their needs.
All solutions are sourced from HKPC’s free platform Digital DIY, which integrates trusted AI solutions from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. Addressing SMEs’ pain points of “limited channels and difficulty in choosing,” the platform provides efficient matching and clear adoption guidance—accelerating transformation and enhancing competitiveness.
2) AI in Education Forum Series & Showcase (5–6 February)
To support the HKSAR Government’s push for digital education and the Education Bureau’s AI for Empowering Learning and Teaching Funding Programme, HKPC co-organises the AI in Education Forum Series & Showcasewith the Education Bureau and Hong Kong Education City, helping schools grasp policy directions, technology solutions and AI teaching planning.
The event features over 60 AI education solutions, including language learning, SEN support and smart assessment, and for the first time centrally showcases 22 projects under the Quality Education Fund (QEF) e-Learning Ancillary Facilities Programme (eLAFP) developed by universities and institutions. The seminar series includes a principals’ forum themed “Achieve More with Less: AI Integration Strategies for Hong Kong Schools,” where primary and secondary school principals share hands-on experience. HKPC Academy will also introduce how schools can leverage Government funding to effectively integrate AI into school-based teaching, learning and administration to improve efficiency.
3) AI Driven Solutions for Smarter Property Sharing Session (9 February)
The AI-Powered Smarter Property Management Sharing Sessionon 9 February will align with the smart building development blueprint under Smart City Blueprint 2.0, as well as the HKSAR Government’s advocacy for deeper AI integration across industries. It aims to help the industry understand emerging AI applications in property management.
The session will feature multiple AI technologies developed by HKPC, including Water Tank Cleaning Robot successfully piloted with Jones Lang LaSalle, Pureland Drone Facade Cleaningwith advantages for high-altitude work safety, Recycling Bin Transporter utilising automation, AI, and sensor technologies, and anAutonomous Wheelchair suitable for elderly and persons with disabilities, demonstrating how innovation can enhance building management efficiency, improve resident experience, and advance sustainable urban development.
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Photo caption:
1. The Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony, encouraging SMEs to adopt AI to enhance competitiveness and operational efficiency.
2. Professor SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, attends the opening ceremony of the “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, supporting the popularisation and practical deployment of AI.
3. Mr Edmond LAI, Chief Digital Officer of HKPC, delivers a keynote speech explaining the core value of HKPC’s self-developed multipurpose AI platform “HKPC Picasso” and how it addresses enterprises’ transformation pain points.
4. The officiating move guests and industry representatives take a group photo to witness the grand opening of the three-day “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, marking AI’s toward broader adoption and industrialisation.
5. The showcase features multiple AI application solutions tailored for SMEs, covering smart operations, data analytics and customer experience, attracting many industry visitors for exchanges.
Hashtag: #HKPC
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About the Hong Kong Productivity Council
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.
HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.
To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.
HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.
For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.
Today’s biggest stars express individuality and confidence with natural diamonds
LOS ANGELES, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – At this year’s GRAMMY Awards, the Red Carpet sparkled with natural diamonds punctuating the looks of today’s most celebrated music artists.
Leading artists, performers and presenters showed up for music’s biggest night in diamond jewelry looks that spoke to creativity, individuality, glamour and power. From nominees Olivia Dean and Sabrina Carpenter to presenter Keltie Knight’s choices, natural diamonds expressed not only the timeless glamour and brilliance they’re known for, but their ability to amplify personal style. Natural diamonds were spotted in a range of tones from icy whites to deep whiskeys, and in settings from platinum to rose gold. Just as Hollywood stars are hitting the Red Carpet this year in Desert diamonds, the biggest new trend in natural diamonds, musical artists are experimenting with a bolder diamond palette, creating a more personality-driven red carpet.
Desert diamonds
Desert diamonds, ranging from warm whites to deep whiskeys, were spotted everywhere, including on presenter Keltie Knight, who opted for unique diamond and yellow gold hoops by RENNA, as well as a smattering of yellow gold, fancy-shaped diamond solitaire rings from the brand. Highlights also included power player J Balvin who chose a clean and classic tuxedo paired with a large cushion cut yellow diamond ring that added a nice balance to the traditionally masculine look.
Simple Drops
Simple drop earrings emerged as a quiet standout at the GRAMMYs, proving that restraint can be just as impactful as large statement pieces. Addison Rae and Madison Beer leaned into effortless glamour, choosing sleek diamond drops that framed the face with subtle movement and modern elegance. Billie Eilish brought her signature edge, using pared-back diamond drops to balance her bold black and white suiting. Kelsea Ballerini elevated the look in Sabyasachi, where refined diamond drops added softness and romance, while Reba McEntire turned to Martin Katz for timeless brilliance, opting for classic diamond drops that were sure to catch the eye.
Diamond Hoops for Men
Men are increasingly embracing minimalist yet impactful diamond hoop earrings as a refined accessory choice. Bad Bunny paired his sharp Schiaparelli tuxedo with a single diamond hoop earring, bringing a subtle but polished sparkle to his look that perfectly balanced his experimental sartorial vibe. Kaytranada’s red carpet presence and inclination for understated yet stylish accessories suggest that simple diamond hoops align naturally with his fashion-forward aesthetic. This trend points to a broader moment in men’s red carpet jewelry: pared-back diamond hoops that provide polished shine without overpowering the rest of the ensemble, signaling a move toward jewelry that feels personal, versatile, and modern.
Rings
Rings at the GRAMMYs reflected a dual trend of bold expression and refined delicacy, underscoring natural diamonds’ versatility. Sabrina Carpenter complimented her look in Chopard, opting for diamond rings that delivered impact without overpowering her look, while Sombr also made a striking impression with a diamond ring that was perfect high-jewelry shine to go with his existing sequined ensemble. In contrast, Olivia Dean showcased a more delicate approach in Cartier High Jewelry, layering elegant diamond rings that emphasized timeless sophistication perfectly echoing her Chanel gown. Miley Cyrus made perhaps the boldest ring statement of the night with several diamond rings stacked and worn over leather gloves.
Necklaces
Necklaces at the GRAMMYs showcased how natural diamonds can define both quiet refinement and bold presence on the red carpet. On the delicate end of the spectrum, Charlotte Lawrence in Messika exemplified understated luxury with a finely crafted diamond necklace that traced the neckline proving that less is more. In contrast, Hailey and Justin Bieber turned heads with matching Lorraine Schwartz statement diamond neck pieces that anchored their looks. Tate McRae also grabbed attention with a 50 carat Lorraine Schwartz necklace, while Pharrell Williams elevated his ensemble with a striking diamond necklace that blended artistry and scale. Together, these moments underscored a versatile necklace trend: from minimalist diamonds that whispered elegance to oversized, expressive pieces that commanded attention. Natural diamonds continue to serve as dynamic anchors in personal style storytelling.
Hashtag: #ADiamondisForever #NaturalDiamonds #diamonds #GRAMMYS
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About De Beers Group
Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services.
De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are
discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.
Media OutReach
ICONSIAM Drives Its Destination Marketing Strategy to Elevate Bangkok as a Global Chinese New Year Destination
Featuring Renowned Actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS to Boost Thai–Chinese Tourism Economy
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2026 – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, announces a major collaboration with leading public and private partners—including the Ministry of Culture (Thailand), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), KASIKORNBANK, CP AXTRA “Makro – Lotus”, Alipay +, and Tiger Balm—to host a world-class Chinese New Year celebration. Reinforcing its Destination Marketing strategy, ICONSIAM aims to position itself as one of the world’s premier Chinese New Year destinations through festivities that blend Thailand’s cultural heritage with revered Chinese traditions. A key highlight is ICONSIAM’s spiritually significant location, known as the “Dragon’s Belly,” a powerful symbol of prosperity along the most beautiful curve of the Chao Phraya River. To honor the Year of the Horse, a sacred statue of Guan Yu—the deity of honesty, loyalty, and righteousness, will be enshrined. The celebration will feature world-class entertainment led by renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS, alongside dragon and lion dances, festive street food, shopping, and cultural experiences. ICONSIAM is confident that foot traffic and spending within the destination will grow by more than 10%, helping to stimulate overall economic activity and tourism in the first quarter. The event will take place from 12–17 February 2026 at River Park, ICONSIAM.
Mrs. Suma Wongphan, Executive Vice President of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd. said “This event reaffirms ICONSIAM’s role as a Global Experiential Destination that captivates visitors worldwide. Our ambition is not only to elevate Thailand’s tourism experience, but also to celebrate the deep-rooted ties between Thailand and China. We have curated a landmark festival that seamlessly blends traditional beliefs with contemporary artistry, creating a special experience to attract global audiences to witness the most magnificent Chinese New Year celebration along the Chao Phraya River. Alongside the cultural aspects, ICONSIAM enhances the festive experience through its ‘Lucky Angpao Mega Campaign’, offering over 8,300 prizes, with expectations of driving more than 10% growth in visitor traffic and 10% increase in consumer spending during the campaign period.”
The 2026 Chinese New Year season is expected to generate significant economic impact across Thailand’s tourism sector, aligning closely with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s strategy in setting the target of attracting 6.7 million Chinese visitors under ongoing visa-free measures. ICONSIAM is confident that the scale and creativity of this celebration will serve as a powerful catalyst in advancing Thailand’s tourism and retail sectors to global prominence.
The ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026 key highlights include:
- Landmark of Blessing: Visitors are invited to experience profound spiritual power at The Auspicious Guan Yu Shrine, featuring the enshrinement of five sacred manifestations of Guan Yu, brought directly from the People’s Republic of China for the first time in Thailand. Enhancing the experience is the Interactive Blessing Pavilion, showcasing the “Eight Auspicious Horses” through cutting-edge interactive technology that breathes new life into ancient mythology.
- Prosperous Celebration: The riverside comes alive with a world-class cultural spectacle led by the appearance of globally renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng, who joins the grand procession of the legendary ‘Long Ma’ (Dragon Horse), a mythical creature stretching over 32 metres in length, symbolising success and progress. The celebration is further energised by a breathtaking performance of the dragon-horse dance by Thailand’s leading T-POP sensation BUS (Because of You I Shine), creating a powerful fusion of tradition and contemporary pop culture.
- The Miracle of Fountain: At ICONSIAM’s iconic river curve — regarded as the most beautiful bend of the Chao Phraya, visitors will witness the mesmerising “Chao Phraya River Dragon Multimedia Water Feature,” the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia, featuring a choreographed spectacle of dancing fountains, light, and sound.
More than a celebration, ICONSIAM A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR 2026 is a cultural phenomenon that positions Bangkok as one of the world’s most compelling festive destinations. Be part of this extraordinary celebration from February 12–17, 2026, at River Park, ICONSIAM. Discover upcoming events and the latest updates via ICONSIAM’s Facebook at www.facebook.com/ICONSIAM or call 1338 for more information.
Hashtag: #ICONSIAMCNY2026 #ICONSIAMaProsperousChineseNewYear2026 #ICONSIAM
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
DFI Retail Group to Announce 2025 Full Year Financial Results and Host Analyst Presentation Live Webcast
Time: 09:30-10:30 am (Hong Kong Time)
Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #Mannings #Guardian #7-Eleven #Wellcome #MarketPlace #IKEA #yuu
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About DFI Retail Group
DFI Retail Group (the ‘Group’) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to “Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments”.
At 1 December 2025, the Group and its associates operated over 7,400 outlets, and employed over 81,000 people across 12 markets.
The Group is dedicated to delivering quality, value and service to Asian consumers through a compelling retail experience, supported by an extensive store network and highly efficient supply chains.
The Group and its associates, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and restaurants.
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