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Asia’s digital future: Economist Impact’s 5th annual Technology for Change Asia to showcase innovation for business and society with keynote address by the Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2025 – Economist Impact will host the 5th annual Technology for Change Asia on March 12th-13th at the Hopewell Hotel in Hong Kong. This premier event will bring together 500 leaders to understand the transformative power of emerging technologies for business and societal advancement.

Economist Impact will host the 5th annual Technology for Change Asia on March 12th-13th at the Hopewell Hotel in Hong Kong.

Key themes include:

  • Future of work in the AI era: analyse AI’s impact on job markets, skills development, and the evolving relationship between humans and machines
  • The quantum revolution: investigate how quantum computing can reshape sectors such as cybersecurity, healthcare, and finance
  • Sustainable tech solutions: discuss innovative green technologies to combat climate change and promote sustainable development
  • Human-centered innovation: ensure technology adoption prioritise human needs and societal well-being
  • Greater Bay Area transformation: explore the GBA’s pivotal role in driving innovation and economic growth in Asia
  • China’s digital roadmap: gain insight from Chinese tech leaders on innovations shaping the global tech landscape.
  • Smart and green mobility: examine electric vehicles, smart city initiatives, and government policies driving sustainable transport.
  • Ethical AI: address critical issues in data privacy, cybersecurity, and public trust in generative AI.

70 speakers confirmed including distinguished figures such as:

  • The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
  • Professor Brian Cox, renowned physicist, author, and television presenter
  • Yan Xie, chief technology officer, Li Auto
  • Daryl Pereira, director and head of ‘Office of the CISO’ Asia-Pacific, Google
  • Milind Gaharwar, principal AI scientist, Mercedes-Benz Group
  • Allan Zeman, Chairman, Lan Kwai Fong Group
  • Chris Bezuidenhout, chief information officer, global emerging markets, Deutsche Bank
  • Paulo de Guzman, chief technology officer, Sephora
  • Puneet Gambir, head of risk and GrabDefence business, Grab
  • Clair Deevy, global director of social impact, WhatsApp
  • Irwan Yulianto, general manager and head of Asia-Pacific enterprise infrastructure, cybersecurity and smart innovation, Panasonic
  • Nancy Wang, country manager and senior director of talent solutions, LinkedIn China
  • Prerit Mishra, head of analytics, Asia-Pacific, DHL
  • Ayumi Nakajima, senior director and head of Asia-Pacific, content, Pinterest
  • David Liu, chief customer experience officer, Klook
  • Laura Houldsworth, vice-president and managing director, Asia-Pacific, Booking.com

“We are at a pivotal moment. New technologies such as quantum computing, nuclear fusion and AI promise to revolutionise our societies, and Asia stands centre stage,” says Professor Brian Cox. “But the development and deployment of these technologies requires focused funding, R&D and regulation. We must not forget they emerged from curiosity-driven science. I believe it is vital that we maintain the science base – the wellspring of new knowledge – alongside the development of new technologies based on discoveries of the past. I look forward to engaging with leaders and experts and contributing to this debate.”

“From quantum computing to ethical AI, Technology for Change Asia 2025 tackles the innovations defining our future,” says Charles Ross, principal, technology and society, Asia-Pacific at Economist Impact. “The conversations we’ll have are not just about technology but about shaping a more resilient and equitable world. I’m looking forward to engaging with the leaders making it happen.”

The 5th annual Technology for Change Asia is sponsored by the Kellogg-HKUST Executive MBA Program, Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation, Tata Communications, IBM, AIA and McKinsey Global Institute. The event is supported by Brand Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Tourism Board, AI Club Asia, Asia MarTech Society, and the British Consulate-General Hong Kong. The official travel partner is Cathay Pacific.

Register here: https://bit.ly/EconTechforChange

Hashtag: #EconomistImpact #technology

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About Economist Impact

Economist Impact empowers businesses, governments and foundations to catalyse change and enable progress. Uniting the expertise The Economist Group is known for under a single brand, Economist Impact brings together policy research and insights, data visualisation, custom storytelling, events and media. Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think tank with the creativity of a media brand, engaging an influential audience in the areas of sustainability, healthcare and new globalisation. Visit for more information.

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Monash IVF Singapore Spotlights Male Factor Infertility for National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW)

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 April 2026 – In conjunction with National Infertility Awareness Week (19–25 April 2026), Monash IVF Singapore, alongside partners like Fertility Support Singapore, is shifting the spotlight to a long-overlooked narrative: male factor infertility.

Monash IVF Singapore National Infertility Awareness Week

While fertility discussions often centre on women, statistics show that male factors contribute to approximately 50% of all infertility cases. Male factor infertility can arise from a range of factors, including low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, or underlying medical issues. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and environmental exposures may also affect sperm quality over time.

Despite its prevalence, male factor infertility is often less discussed in Singapore, which can lead to delays in assessment and treatment. Early evaluation, including semen analysis and medical consultation, can help identify potential concerns and guide appropriate next steps for couples.

To support greater awareness, Monash IVF is launching a series of digital educational content aimed at de-stigmatising male reproductive health and providing actionable insights for men to take charge of their fertility. These resources will cover common causes of male infertility, when to seek medical advice, and the types of assessments and treatment options available. By making this information more accessible, the clinic aims to encourage earlier evaluation and more open conversations about male factor infertility, both within relationships and in the wider community.

As Singapore’s demographic landscape evolves, Monash IVF Singapore is contributing to broader discussions on reproductive health. With the national Total Fertility Rate (TFR) reaching a record low of 0.87 in 2025, the need for comprehensive and patient-centred fertility care continues to grow.

Understanding Modern Fertility Challenges: Beyond Biological Factors

The decline in fertility is not merely a biological hurdle but a reflection of the intense pressures that Singaporeans face today. The “workplace rat race”, high-stress environments, and environmental factors have contributed to a trend of delayed parenthood. Many individuals are choosing to start families later due to career progression, financial considerations, and evolving life priorities. At the same time, age remains a key factor, as both egg and sperm quality may decline over time.

As such, these same pressures do not just delay parenthood; they also make it more difficult for individuals to pursue fertility treatments in Singapore. Managing appointments, coping with the physical and emotional demands of treatment, and balancing work responsibilities can become an added strain for many.

“Fertility is often treated as a private struggle, but it is a societal challenge,” says June Jonet, Marketing and Business Development Head of Monash IVF Singapore. “We are calling for greater understanding and support within the workplace. Employees undergoing fertility treatments or preservation need an environment that recognises the physical and emotional toll of this journey, rather than one that penalises them for it.”

Monash IVF’s Approach to Assisted Reproductive Care

Monash IVF Singapore’s clinical and laboratory team is led by Chief Embryologist Ng Pei Hui, supported by a team of senior embryologists and Fertility Specialists, including Dr Kelly Loi, Dr Suresh Nair, and Dr Yap Lip Kee.

The clinic applies a range of established assisted reproductive techniques to enhance success rates, tailored to individual clinical needs. These include:

  • Piezo-ICSI: A fertilisation method that uses a blunt needle with high-speed vibration to gently penetrate eggs and assist sperm injection. It may be considered in cases involving fragile oocytes or advanced maternal age.
  • IMSI: A technique that uses high-magnification imaging to support sperm selection, enabling embryologists to identify and avoid sperm with morphological abnormalities, such as vacuoles.
  • PICSI: A method of biological sperm selection using hyaluronic acid to help identify mature sperm with a lower likelihood of DNA damage.
  • Embryoscope+: A time-lapse imaging system that continuously monitors embryo development without disrupting stable culture conditions, supporting the selection of embryos with strong developmental potential for transfer.

The Power of Planning: Fertility Preservation

Alongside treatment, Monash IVF Singapore highlights the importance of proactive planning. As more women and couples choose to delay parenthood, elective egg freezing (a form of fertility preservation) has become a vital tool. At the same time, early assessment of male factor infertility, including semen analysis, can identify potential concerns and help couples prepare more confidently.

“Even with the range of treatments available today, timing still matters,” says Chief Embryologist Ng Pei Hui. “Early consultation allows patients to better understand their options and make informed decisions.”

With infertility affecting approximately 1 in 6 individuals, it is now recognised as a relatively common medical condition rather than a rare exception. This is why at Monash IVF Singapore, fertility care is not only about addressing challenges as they arise but also about supporting early planning for both men and women. With options such as elective egg freezing, male fertility assessment, and fertility health checks, the clinic aims to help Singaporeans better understand their reproductive health and make informed decisions at different stages of their journey.

For more information about Monash IVF Singapore and what they do, visit their website.
Hashtag: #MonashIVF #malefertility #mensfertility #reproductivehealth #fertilityawareness #menswellness

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About Monash IVF Singapore

Monash IVF Singapore is part of the global Monash IVF Group, a pioneer in reproductive medicine since achieving the world’s first IVF pregnancy in 1973. We provide a full suite of fertility services, combining compassionate patient care with the latest scientific breakthroughs.

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VinFast signs partnerships with 14 e-scooter dealers in the Philippines, accelerating nationwide network expansion

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MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 April 2026 – VinFast today announced the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on strategic cooperation with 14 e-scooter distributors in the Philippines. The agreements demonstrate VinFast’s ability to rapidly scale its retail network, while further affirming its long-term commitment to advancing green mobility and building a comprehensive electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines.

VinFast continues to collaborate with leading motorcycle distributors in the Philippines in support of the upcoming June 2026 product launch.

To support its planned product launch in June 2026, VinFast has continued to partner with leading motorcycle distributors in the Philippines, including Wheeltek Motor Sales Corporation; Gentrade International Phils., Inc. (Transcycle); Superbikes Corporation; Motoxpress Sales Corporation; FMN Industrial Corp.; Eduhome Enterprise, Inc.; Keymotors Incorporated; Motorpro by Abenson Ventures Inc. and Aserco; Moto Atelier Inc.; Ciclo Suerte; HG Motorzone; HGC Main Marketing (Motorboy); BLC Cycle Parts Supply; and Auto Ten Trade & Services Corp. Similar to the partners signed in January 2026, these partners have extensive networks, demonstrate strong operational capabilities, and possess longstanding experience in the motorcycle business, alongside a clear orientation toward the green transition.

VinFast and its partners will collaborate to rapidly roll out a showroom network across the market, with many outlets expected to be launched in parallel at the time of product introduction, laying the foundation for accelerated expansion of nationwide sales and after-sales services. The showrooms will be developed in high-demand areas with strong potential for green transition such as Metro Manila, Metro Davao, Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Metro Cebu, Bulacan, and other major urban provinces, and will adhere to VinFast’s global standards for operations and brand identity.

In the initial phase, the network will distribute a portfolio of swappable-battery e-scooters, including Evo, Feliz II, Viper, and other models expected to be launched in the near future, alongside upcoming models that will be further adapted to local infrastructure conditions and consumer usage patterns in the Philippines.

The Philippines is one of Southeast Asia’s largest motorcycle markets, characterized by strong demand for personal mobility and rapid urbanization. Amid fuel price volatility and a growing shift toward sustainable solutions, e-scooters are emerging as a promising pathway, particularly when supported by an integrated ecosystem.

VinFast is pioneering the development of a comprehensive e-scooter ecosystem in the Philippines, encompassing dealer networks, after-sales services, financing solutions, and energy infrastructure. Notably, the company aims to deploy approximately 30,000 battery-swapping stations nationwide in the near term, in collaboration with infrastructure partners, to deliver a convenient and flexible user experience.

Earlier in 2026, VinFast announced plans to expand its e-scooter business across five key international markets, including the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Thailand, and Malaysia, as part of its global strategy to scale a green mobility ecosystem.

Ms. Vo Thi Cam Tu, Managing Director of VinFast E-Scooters Overseas Market, said: “Our partnerships with 14 major dealers in the Philippines mark an important step in rapidly establishing a strong distribution and service foundation from the outset. We are not only introducing products tailored to local needs, but also developing an integrated ecosystem, from battery-swapping infrastructure to after-sales services, enabling consumers to access and adopt e-scooters in a convenient, efficient, and sustainable manner.”

In recent years, VinFast has steadily built its presence across key Southeast Asian markets, including the Philippines, through a diverse electric vehicle portfolio and strategic partnerships in infrastructure and services. The expansion into e-scooters further completes its green mobility ecosystem in the market and the region, while providing consumers with more flexible options in the transition to sustainable transportation.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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4,680 young Chinese volunteers called “Little Deer” ready for Asian Beach Games

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SANYA, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 April 2026 – As the 6th Asian Beach Games draws near, 4,680 youth volunteers, affectionately known as the “Little Deer” (Xiao Lu Lu), have completed their general training and are now intensively honing their foreign language skills and job-specific practical abilities in final preparation for the event.

4,680 young Chinese volunteers ready for Asian Beach Games.

Recruited from 12 universities, including Hainan University and Hainan Normal University, as well as other local organizations, the volunteers share the common nickname “Little Deer.” The name is derived from Sanya’s nickname, “Deer City,” and is meant to reflect the volunteers’ lively, warm, and friendly spirit.

“See ya in Sanya” is both the slogan of the Asian Beach Games and the guiding principle for its volunteers. Liang Zihan, a student from Hainan Tropical Ocean University, said: “Since the launch of the volunteer recruitment drive, whether it is learning about the Games, mastering multilingual communication, or taking part in scenario-based drills and emergency exercises, I have given it my all. I hope to convey Sanya’s warmth, openness, and inclusiveness to every friend who comes from afar.”

Alongside local students, the volunteer team also includes many young people from across China brought together by the Games. Wu Yujia, a sophomore at the Hospitality Institute of Sanya, is one of them. “I want to show a warm, caring, and energetic Sanya,” she said. When asked about her future plans, she did not hesitate: “I want to stay in Sanya.” In her eyes, the city’s pleasant climate and beautiful scenery have deepened her affection for it and strengthened her commitment to volunteering.

The 6th Asian Beach Games will be held in Sanya, Hainan, from April 22 to 30, 2026. Delegations from all 45 member countries and regions of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) will take part in what is the largest and most influential beach sports event in Asia. As the first major international sporting event to be held in Hainan after the independent customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port, the Games are not only a celebration of Asian sport but also an important opportunity for Hainan to present an open and welcoming face to the world.

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

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