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AIA survey: 72% of respondents lack sufficient retirement reserves 60% have yet to make advance preparations

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Nearly 70% believe smart technology can help build better MPF portfolios AIA launches new MPF Smart Advisor to support members in achieving their desired retirement life

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2025 – AIA Hong Kong (AIA) has released its latest “AIA Desired Retirement Tracker” (the survey), revealing that 72% of respondents do not have sufficient retirement reserves, with an average delay of 12.8 years expected before they can retire. Furthermore, nearly 60% have yet to establish a clear retirement savings plan, indicating that while most are aware of the financial pressures post-retirement, many have not made advance preparations to plan for their desired retirement.

AIA Hong Kong announces the findings of the 16th AIA Desired Retirement Tracker and launches the new MPF Smart Advisor. Pictured: Ms. Amelie Shen, Chief Corporate Solutions Officer of AIA Hong Kong and Macau.

Although the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) plays a critical role in retirement savings, its importance is often underestimated. The survey found that respondents expect only around 30% of their retirement reserves to come from MPF. At the same time, many face challenges and confusion when making MPF investment decisions: 65% find it difficult to select MPF funds; 57% are unclear about the differences between fund types; 56% do not understand how to interpret fund performance; 45% are unaware of their actual annualised investment returns. Importantly, nearly 70% of respondents agree that smart technology can help build stronger MPF portfolios. These findings suggest that tech-enabled tools can boost confidence in retirement planning and encourage more proactive MPF management.

In response, AIA’s MPF trustee – AIA Trustee – has partnered with Magnum Research Limited (AQUMON #, a leading fintech company in Hong Kong, to launch the new MPF Smart Advisor. This innovative solution empowers users to make informed MPF investment decisions with ease, supporting their journey towards a desired retirement.

Key features of MPF Smart Advisor:

  • Simple and user-friendly: Users simply answer five investment risk assessment questions to receive a recommended AIA MPF investment portfolio from the MPF Smart Advisor, with instant access to historical performance data. The platform offers up to 50 portfolio options, a rare breadth in the market, enabling flexible planning tailored to individual needs. Personalised recommendations are available to suit a range of investment preferences, including:
    • Regional investment preferences: e.g. Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland, North America
    • ESG investment preferences: for those prioritising environmental, social, and governance factors
  • Market-first^ feature: AIA MPF members can compare their current AIA MPF portfolios with the reference portfolio recommended by the MPF Smart Advisor, gaining clear insights into asset allocation. Users can also customise their own AIA MPF portfolio, simulate various configurations, and instantly view historical returns – all without executing actual fund switches — enabling more confident and informed decision-making.
  • Retirement gap calculator: By inputting their age, assets, and desired retirement lifestyle, users receive a data-driven analysis from MPF Smart Advisor highlighting the gap between their expected savings and retirement expenses, along with actionable suggestions to close the gap and move closer to their desired retirement.
  • Free access: MPF Smart Advisor is now available for free on the AIA+ mobile app, accessible to all AIA+ users.

Ms. Amelie Shen, Chief Corporate Solutions Officer of AIA Hong Kong and Macau, said, “As Hong Kong people live longer, early retirement planning becomes increasingly important. Yet many have not taken concrete action, and the retirement savings gap remains a pressing issue. At the same time, the market recognises the positive role of smart technology in retirement planning. To address this gap and meet the growing demand for intelligent, personalised retirement planning tools, AIA has launched MPF Smart Advisor – a smart solution offering professional investment advice to help users plan for retirement with greater autonomy and confidence.”

Ms. Shen added, “The earlier one begins retirement planning, the better positioned they are to leverage the benefits of dollar-cost averaging and the compounding effect — both of which enable individuals to navigate uncertainty with greater confidence and composure. Since AIA MPF joined the eMPF platform on 3 September, we have continued to offer diverse fund choices and market insights, along with forward-looking tools like MPF Smart Advisor to support advance preparations for retirement. Looking ahead, AIA remains committed to enhancing retirement services and helping individuals achieve ‘Healthier, Longer, Better Lives’.”

Additional Highlights from the “AIA Desired Retirement Tracker”:

  • Desired retirement still out of reach: Respondents aim to retire at an average age of 62.2, with a target retirement reserves of HK$ 3.294 million (median). However, 72% fall short, with an average shortfall of HK$ 2.564 million, potentially delaying retirement by 12.8 years, highlighting a gap between aspiration and reality.
  • MPF’s role underestimated: Respondents expect only 30% of their retirement reserves to come from MPF. In fact, as of end-2024, 125,000 MPF accounts in Hong Kong had accumulated HK$ 1 million or more1, representing a twofold increase over the past five years. This highlights the long-term potential of MPF for capital accumulation and growth, and underscores the importance of more active portfolio management.
  • Investment preferences: Respondents born in the 1960s prefer mixed assets funds, while Gen Z2 leans towards equity funds. These two fund types have delivered the highest average annualised net returns3 since the MPF system’s inception. Overall, 69% of respondents favour MPF equity funds, with 41% optimistic about the performance of Hong Kong equity MPF funds in the coming year, followed by 36% for North America and 35% for Chinese markets.

The 16th edition of the “AIA Desired Retirement Tracker” was conducted from 13 to 31 August 2025 through online questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with 1,003 working individuals in Hong Kong aged 18–65, each holding at least one MPF account. The survey data was weighted according to the distribution of Hong Kong’s working population — including factors such as age, gender, and monthly personal income — to ensure the sample fully reflected the characteristics of Hong Kong’s working population. The survey was conducted by Cimigo, an independent market research and consultancy agency.

Notes:
# MPF Smart Advisor and the Services are independently operated and provided by Magnum Research Limited (AQUMON). Magnum Research Limited holds licenses issued by Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority and is authorised by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC) for regulated activities of Type 1 (dealing in securities), Type 4 (advising on securities), and Type 9 (asset management). The investment recommendations are solely provided by Magnum Research Limited. AIA Company (Trustee) Limited, AIA International Limited (“AIA”) and its affiliated intermediaries do not provide any investment advice.
^ As of August 2025, based on AIA’s internal research and available market information.
1.Source: MPFA Blog 強積金儲備穩步上升 – 積金局(Chinese version only) (as of 27 July 2025)
2. Respondents aged between 18 and 28
3. Source: The MPFA releases provisional data on MPF investment returns (as of 4 July 2025). Since the inception of the MPF System in 2000, the average annualised net returns for equity funds and mixed asset funds have reached 4.7% and 4.3% respectively, making them the highest-performing fund types.

Hashtag: #友邦香港 #AIA理想退休生活調查 #AIA積金智邦手 #AIA #HongKongFinance #AIATrust

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

About AIA Hong Kong & Macau

AIA Group Limited established its operations in Hong Kong in 1931. To date, AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau have about 18,000 financial planners1, as well as an extensive network of independent financial advisors, brokerage and bancassurance partners. We serve over 3.6 million customers2, offering them a wide selection of professional services and products ranging from individual life, group life, accident, medical and health, pension, personal lines insurance to investment-linked assurance schemes with numerous investment options. We are also dedicated to providing superb product solutions to meet the financial needs of high-net-worth customers.

1 As at 30 June 2025
2 Including AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau’s individual life, group insurance, and pension customers (as at 30 June 2025)

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Escape to China’s Mysterious Guizhou and enjoy a cool 23°C summer retreat.

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GUIZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2026 – Direct flights now connect Malaysia and Guizhou, complemented by visa-free policies between China and Malaysia. Travelers can easily reach Guiyang from Kuala Lumpur in four hours and stay for up to 30 days per visit. With its cool climate, convenient transport, and favorable policies, Guizhou is becoming a preferred summer holiday destination for more Malaysian tourists. Guizhou is also building an international tourism product system centered on “summer retreat + ecology + culture.”

Escape to China’s Mysterious Guizhou and enjoy a cool 23°C summer retreat.

Link: Guizhou in July

In midsummer July, Malaysian travel operators and cultural tourism influencers visited Guizhou, China, a renowned summer retreat, as if stepping into another season. Known as the “Green Karst Kingdom” and a “Natural Air Conditioner,” Guizhou has a mountainous area coverage of 92.5% and an average summer temperature of just 23°C. Beyond its cool climate, Guizhou offers a hidden-gem experience where spectacular landscapes meet diverse cultures, leaving every visitor amazed.

Link: https://youtu.be/nL7ayiYqB-k?si=nfasDLnhaBIFgkqB

Spectacular Landscapes at Every Turn

From the lush peak forests of Wanfenglin to the magnificent Huangguoshu Waterfall; from the emerald waters of Xiaoqikong to the cloud-covered summit of Mount Fanjing; and to the world-record Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge spanning a deep gorge, every landscape in Guizhou is worth a stop. A Malaysian travel influencer remarked, “Before departure, I had only heard that Guizhou was a summer retreat. After visiting, I realized the surprises go far beyond 23°C.”

Cultural Experiences Full of Surprises

Visitors can enter distinctive villages and try intangible cultural heritage crafts such as Miao embroidery and batik; gather around a long-table banquet to taste local specialties such as sour soup fish and spicy chicken; explore cool hidden landscapes within a World Natural Heritage site with children through waterfall play and paddleboarding; or venture deep into ancient caves for an underground adventure. From heritage crafts to nature exploration, Guizhou offers family-friendly experiences for everyone to enjoy.

A Spontaneous Trip Made Easy

This summer, reserve a ticket for Mysterious Guizhou, and begin your “summer escape plan.”

Explore more of Mysterious Guizhou: www.guizhoutravel.com

Hashtag: #Guizhou

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

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“Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours” Thematic Exhibition Makes First Stop at Hong Kong Science Park

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HKSTP Advances AI Industry with Tech Delegation at WAIC 2026

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 July 2026 – To celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) today held the “Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours” Thematic Exhibition Kick-off Ceremony cum Aerospace Experts Sharing Forum at Hong Kong Science Park, marking the opening of a seven-day roving exhibition.

Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry (middle); Mr Clement Woo, Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs (1st from right); Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP (2nd from left); Ms Connie Wong Wai-ching, Standing Committee Member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Vice President of the Friends of Hong Kong Association (2nd from right), and Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP (1st from left), together with other distinguished guests, officiate at the kick-off ceremony for the “Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours” Thematic Exhibition.

At the first stop of the roving exhibition, Hong Kong Science Park will host the exhibition at the Atrium Link from today until 22 July 2026, showcasing the nation’s major achievements in aerospace development, as well as the participation and contributions of Hong Kong’s research community in aerospace technology, space robotics and deep space exploration. It aims to enhance public understanding of the nation’s development and foster a stronger sense of pride, while inspiring young people to develop an interest in innovation and technology (I&T) and aerospace.

The ceremony was officiated by Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, together with Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP, and Ms Connie Wong Wai-ching, Standing Committee Member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Vice President of the Friends of Hong Kong Association, alongside other distinguished guests, witnessing a new milestone in the nation’s aerospace achievements.

Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, said in his remarks: “The inspiring story of Dr Lai Ka-ying becoming Hong Kong’s first astronaut is a vivid example of Hong Kong’s participation in the nation’s major scientific and technological missions, and a fruitful achievement of the great practice of ‘one country, two systems.’ Hong Kong’s R&D teams have long participated in and made active contributions to the nation’s deep-space exploration missions. For example, a team from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology independently developed the Multi-Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory (MUSICO), Hong Kong’s first scientific payload on the national space station to monitor greenhouse gas. Recently, Dr Lai and two other astronauts completed the in-cabin assembly and testing and extravehicular installation of MUSICO, which can accurately monitor greenhouse gases across the mid- and low-latitude regions on the Earth, providing critical data for the nation’s carbon peaking and carbon neutrality strategies. As we embark on a new journey, we must leverage I&T to empower Hong Kong’s social development, enhance governance efficiency, and better integrate into and serve the nation’s development. We will also uphold the spirit of space exploration of perseverance in the face of challenges to accelerate the development of Hong Kong into an international I&T centre.”

Connecting Hong Kong’s Research Strength with National Aerospace Development

In recent years, the nation’s aerospace endeavours have continued to make breakthroughs in areas ranging from deep-space exploration and satellite technology to space science research, opening up new possibilities across multiple scientific disciplines.

Leveraging its world-class universities, outstanding research talent, internationalised innovation ecosystem, and the unique advantage of close ties with the Mainland, Hong Kong is actively contributing to the development of the nation’s aerospace technology.

The exhibition presents the development and landmark achievements of the nation’s aerospace endeavours. It also demonstrates how Hong Kong research teams apply artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, space science and engineering research to support space exploration and related technology applications. Through this exhibition, industry stakeholders and members of the public can gain a deeper understanding of the city’s research capabilities and I&T talent.

Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP, said, “This year marks the beginning of the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan, with aerospace technology identified as a key area in building the nation into a leading science and technology power. Dr Lai Ka-ying, Hong Kong’s first payload specialist, travelled into space aboard the Shenzhou-23 spacecraft, realising Hong Kong’s aerospace dream and demonstrating strong recognition of the city’s research capabilities and I&T talent. HKSTP is honoured to serve as the first stop of the ‘Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours’ roving exhibition. Looking ahead, we will continue to bring together talent and foster interdisciplinary, cross-regional and cross-sector collaboration. By supporting frontier R&D in areas such as aerospace technology, we aim to provide a broader platform for Hong Kong’s research talent and contribute Hong Kong’s strengths to the nation’s aerospace endeavours and pursuit of greater technological self-reliance.”

Ms Connie Wong, Standing Committee Member of the National Committee for the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Vice-President of Friends of Hong Kong Association, shared in her speech: “We believe that the cultivation of young talent is indispensable to technological innovation. Based on this philosophy, Friends of Hong Kong Association co-organised the Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours Thematic Exhibition, encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in science and innovation and to be contributors to the nation’s I&T endeavours.”

Three Experts Share Insights on Frontier Trends in Space Technology

An Aerospace Experts Sharing Forum was held alongside the kick-off ceremony. Moderated by The Honourable Mr Duncan Chiu, Legislative Council Member for the Technology & Innovation Functional Constituency, the forum brought together three aerospace and space technology experts from local universities and the InnoHK research and development platform:

  • Professor SU Hui: Chair Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Global STEM Professor, and Co-Director of the Institute for Space Science and Technology at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Founder of Stellerus Technology
  • Professor GAO Yang: Director of the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Space Sustainability, Co-Director of the Institute for Space Science and Technology at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Director of the Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Centre under InnoHK
  • Professor WU Bo: Chang Xin Yu Professor of Space Science, Associate Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Associate Director of the InnoHK Hong Kong Centre for Space Robotics and Energy

Drawing on their respective areas of expertise, the three experts shared insights into the application of AI and robotics in space missions, key technologies involved in deep-space exploration, and the experience of Hong Kong research teams participating in national aerospace projects. They also explored space sustainability, the commercialisation of research outcomes and cross-regional collaboration, while encouraging young talent to pursue opportunities in aerospace technology.

HKSTP Leads Hong Kong Tech Firms to the World’s Largest AI Exhibition – WAIC 2026, Strengthening the AI Commercialisation Ecosystem

HKSTP has long supported the accelerated adoption of AI across industries to foster cross-sector collaboration and enhance productivity.

HKSTP, together with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Cyberport, and Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited (HSITP), will lead a delegation of 18 Hong Kong tech companies to the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference & High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance (WAIC 2026). Taking place from 17 to 20 July at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center, the delegation will showcase Hong Kong’s growing role as a global AI innovation hub and support the nation’s AI strategy. Six HKSTP park companies among the delegation will present solutions spanning humanoid robots, smart mobility, climate technology, AI agents, and generative AI.

Stellerus Technology Limited, founded by Professor SU Hui, leading the “MUSICO” (Multi-Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory) project — Hong Kong’s first payload project deployed on the Tiangong Space Station — will present its latest AI-powered climate and meteorological solutions at WAIC 2026.

SUTPC Digital Technology (Hong Kong) Limited, a leading enterprise in the nation’s smart city and intelligent transport sectors, and NineRay Technology Limited, which specialises in the research, development and production of high-performance, productivity-oriented humanoid robotics, will also showcase their advanced solutions in the exhibition. By demonstrating how AI can empower business operations, urban governance and sustainable development, the Hong Kong delegation aims to promote human-AI collaboration and innovation.

“Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours” Thematic Exhibition
Date: 16–22 July 2026
Venue: Atrium Link, Hong Kong Science Park

2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference & High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance (WAIC)
Date: 17–20 July 2026
Venue: Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai, China
Hong Kong Pavilion: Booth E101, Hall 2

Appendix: WAIC 2026 – List of 6 HKSTP tech entities (in alphabetical order)

  1. JiHu GitLab Technology Limited
  2. KNQ Technology Limited
  3. NineRay Technology Limited
  4. Robocore Technology Limited
  5. Stellerus Technology Limited
  6. SUTPC Digital Technology (Hong Kong) Limited

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), established in 2001, has built a thriving innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem in Hong Kong, supporting 13 unicorns, nurturing over 17,000 research talents, and hosting more than 2,400 technology companies from 26 countries and regions specializing in biomedicine, AI and robotics, fintech, and smart city development. HKSTP is dedicated to positioning Hong Kong as an international I&T hub.

To align with Hong Kong’s future development, HKSTP is committed to attracting and cultivating I&T talent, accelerating the commercialization of innovative outcomes, and providing comprehensive support for technology companies and professionals on their innovation journey. Its vibrant I&T ecosystem continues to grow, encompassing Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong, and three InnoParks in Tai Po, Yuen Long, and Tseung Kwan O. These facilities drive advancements in applied technology, focusing on industries such as advanced manufacturing, micro- electronics, and biotechnology, steering Hong Kong toward new industrialization.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch, located in Futian, Shenzhen, leverages the strategic advantage of “support of the Motherland, connecting to the world.” It serves as a bridge for “bringing in and going global,” actively fostering cross-border I&T collaboration. The Shenzhen Branch supports global technology companies and professionals by providing research and collaboration spaces, with a focus on enterprises in seven key sectors: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech, and sustainable development.

HKSTP is dedicated to advancing Hong Kong’s I&T development by providing research infrastructure, startup and enterprise support services, professional investment and business expertise, fostering partnership networks, and attracting top talent. These efforts drive innovation as a new engine for economic growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at .

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2026 Hainan Island Carnival Sends a Global Summer Invitation

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HAIKOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 July 2026 – As midsummer arrives in the Northern Hemisphere, Hainan, China, welcomes its annual island-wide carnival. The 2026 (27th) Hainan Island Carnival will be held from July 18 to August 18, extending a vibrant summer invitation to guests from around the world.

The 2026 (27th) Hainan Island Carnival will be held from July 18 to August 18.

With the theme “Vibrant Free Trade Port, Charming Hainan Island,” this year’s carnival will present more than 50 distinctive events across the island, blending ocean thrills, rainforest wonders, millennia-old cultural heritage, signature cuisine, and dazzling nighttime light shows.

Unlike traditional island holiday models, this year’s carnival breaks free from the spatial limits of conventional scenic spots, introducing a brand-new concept of “the whole island as a carnival.” Four featured thematic segments debut with innovative offerings: water sports, joyful performances, gourmet flavors, and trendy shopping. Catering to outdoor adventurers, cultural enthusiasts, family travelers, and food lovers alike, the carnival offers a fully tailored vacation experience—ensuring every guest discovers their own unique island delight.

During the carnival, Hainan’s entire island will come alive in synergy, with highlights unfolding everywhere. In Sanya and Lingshui, romance by the sea sets the tone, with beach music festivals and island art exhibitions bringing to life a laid-back yet passionate summer atmosphere. In Wanning and Qionghai, the spotlight is on trendy outdoor pursuits, with surfing adventures and island cycling events taking center stage one after another. In the central rainforest region, the focus is on wellness and slow living. Activities such as rainforest trekking and immersive Li and Miao cultural experiences invite visitors to escape the bustle of the city and encounter the pristine beauty of nature. In Danzhou’s Haihua Island on the western coast, the grand carnival will conclude with a spectacular mass chorus carnival, bringing the entire celebration to a resounding finale.

Meanwhile, a grand culinary carnival unfolds across Hainan, with coastal specialty markets, Southeast Asian–style food streets, and rainforest-themed dining experiences spread throughout the island’s cities and counties. Fresh seafood, authentic local snacks, and a dazzling array of Southeast Asian flavors set the stage, while a starry beachside gala dinner—rich in atmosphere—brings together ocean views, gourmet cuisine, and live music for an immersive holiday experience.

For international visitors, Hainan continues to expand its openness: citizens of 86 countries enjoy visa-free entry with a 30-day stay, while international routes at Haikou and Sanya airports are steadily increasing, making the island directly accessible from many global destinations with efficient and convenient travel. To further enhance the inbound holiday experience, this year’s carnival upgrades exclusive benefits for international visitors, offering multilingual guided tours, exclusive discounted flight & hotel packages, and special duty-free promotions—delivering a wealth of benefits across the island.

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