Connect with us

Media OutReach

Hong Kong Genome Institute and Global Leaders Co-organise Landmark Healthcare Event “International Genomic Medicine Symposium”

Published

on

Convening Experts to Promote Hong Kong and Advance Medical Innovation

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 June 2025 – Genomic medicine is one of the most promising fields in today’s healthcare landscape, enabling precise diagnoses, personalised treatment plans, and breakthroughs in drug development that bring new hope to patients around the world. The Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI) will join forces with world-renowned authorities to host the International Genomic Medicine Symposium (Symposium) on 17 November 2025 (Monday). This landmark event will highlight Hong Kong’s unique strengths in fostering exchange and cooperation with experts worldwide in medical research and innovation, and accelerate the application of genomic medicine to pave the way for a healthier future for all.

The Symposium marks HKGI’s first collaboration with Rare Diseases International (RDI) and The Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases (LCRD), which is jointly led by RDI and The Lancet, the world’s most influential medical journal. The event will welcome local and international genomics leaders from over 20 countries and regions, including clinicians, scientists, and researchers from Mainland China, Europe, North and South America, and Australia.

Distinguished speakers at the Symposium will focus on key global topics such as clinical genetics, rare diseases, genomic medicine, AI, data sharing, as well as ethical and legal matters involved, facilitating in-depth discussions on the latest groundbreaking research and clinical insights. Specifically, thematic sessions will be dedicated to experience sharing by experts from Mainland China and Hong Kong. By showcasing case studies from the Hong Kong Genome Project, these exchanges will help demonstrate practical applications of personalised medicine in managing common disorders such as cardiomyopathy and kidney disease. Developments in rare diseases in Mainland China and drug development opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will also be covered, opening doors of opportunity for regional collaboration and innovation.

Dr Lo Su-vui, Chief Executive Officer of HKGI said, “With the strong support from the Health Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, HKGI has been working closely with the Department of Health, Hospital Authority, medical schools of local universities and various stakeholders to accelerate the development of genomic medicine in Hong Kong. In just a few years, the Institute has achieved significant milestones in medical research, clinical applications, and international collaborations. We have successfully recruited over 47,000 participants for the Hong Kong Genome Project, continuously expanding our genome database featuring the Southern Chinese population. We have also accumulated clinical application cases and established synergistic collaborative research platforms. These achievements highlight Hong Kong’s strong capabilities and advantages in genomic medicine, laying a solid foundation for further collaboration with internationally recognised authorities.”

Dr Lo continued, “We are greatly honoured to partner with RDI and LCRD to organise this prestigious global event. Genomic medicine is the future of medicine with wide-ranging applications, spanning from common to rare diseases, from clinical diagnosis and personalised treatment to disease prevention and health management. This Symposium will undoubtedly serve as a critical platform for healthcare experts, academics, and researchers from around the world to exchange knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving medical innovation, ultimately bringing immense benefits to patients in Hong Kong, Asia and beyond.”

The one-day Symposium is expected to attract nearly 300 industry professionals. Following the Symposium, the LCRD will hold its annual meeting in Hong Kong on 18-19 November to further discuss insights and deepen cross-regional collaboration. This will be the first time for the LCRD to host its annual meeting in Asia, highlighting Hong Kong’s distinctive position in leading international medical innovation.

For information about the Symposium programme and speakers, please refer to the appendix. For enquiries about the Symposium, please contact HKGI ([email protected]) or RDI-LCRD ([email protected]).

Rundown
International Genomic Medicine Symposium

17 November 2025, Hong Kong

Charles K. Kao Auditorium, Hong Kong Science Park

Time Programme Speaker
09:00 Keynote Prof Lo Chung-mau, BBS, JP
Secretary for Health
Hong Kong SAR Government,
Hong Kong, China
09:15 Opening Ceremony
Panel 1 Session Chairperson: Dr Ronald Lam, JP
Director of Health
Hong Kong SAR Government,
Hong Kong, China
09:30 Developing Rare Disease Models in China: Service, Teaching and Research Prof Zhang Shuyang
President
Peking Union Medical College Hospital, China
10:00 Unraveling Molecular Pathogeneses to Enhance Patient Care and Family Well-being Prof Kym Boycott
Co-Chair
Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases
Professor of Pediatrics
University of Ottawa, Canada
10:30 Panel Discussion
Panel 2 Session Chairperson: Dr Libby Lee, JP
Under Secretary for Health
Hong Kong SAR Government,
Hong Kong, China
11:15 Insights into Rare Diseases:
Focus on Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Prof Roberto Giugliani
Co-Chair
Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases
Professor of Genetics
Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
11:45 Hong Kong Genome Project Case Sharing (1) – Unlocking the Genomics of Cardiomyopathy: A New Era in Heart Health Dr Derek Lee
Hong Kong College of Physicians –
Hong Kong Genome Institute Scholar
Hong Kong, China
12:00 Hong Kong Genome Project Case Sharing (2) – Precision Medicine in Nephrology Dr Becky Ma
Hong Kong Academy of Medicine –
Hong Kong Genome Institute Scholar
Hong Kong, China
12:15 Panel Discussion
12:30 Lunch
Panel 3 Session Chairperson: Prof Philip Chiu
Dean of Medicine
The Chinese University of Hong Kong,
Hong Kong, China
14:00 Revolutionising Plasma DNA Analysis in Transforming Non-invasive Testing and Cancer Detection Prof Dennis Lo, SBS, JP
Vice-Chancellor and President
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Board Member
Hong Kong Genome Institute
Hong Kong, China
14:30 Publishing at The Lancet Dr Chloe Wilson
Senior Medical Editor
The Lancet
15:00 Panel Discussion
Panel 4 Session Chairperson: Prof Lau Chak-sing, BBS, JP
Vice-President & Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health)
Dean of Medicine
The University of Hong Kong
Board Member
Hong Kong Genome Institute
Hong Kong, China
15:35 AI in Action:
The Journey from Clinical Record to Personalised Treatment
Prof Gareth Baynam
Medical Director
Rare Care Centre
Perth Children’s Hospital, Australia
16:05 Harnessing the Power of Electronic Healthcare Records in Scientific Research and Innovation in Genomic Medicine Prof Yong Chen
Professor of Biostatistics
University of Pennsylvania, USA
16:35 Panel Discussion
Panel 5 Session Chairperson: To be confirmed
16:50 The Health Rights of Children and Genomic Newborn Screening Prof Bartha Knoppers
Director
Centre of Genomics and Policy
McGill University, Canada
17:20 Hong Kong Genome Project:
Advancing the Genomics Frontier
Dr Brian Chung
Chief Medical and Scientific Officer
Hong Kong Genome Institute,
Hong Kong, China
17:40 Genomics as a Catalyst for
Drug Development in the Greater Bay Area
Prof Aya El Helali
Clinical Assistant Professor
Department of Clinical Oncology,
School of Clinical Medicine,
The Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong,
Hong Kong, China
18:00 Panel Discussion
18:15 End of Symposium

(Last updated on 25 June 2025)


Enquiry
Hong Kong Genome Institute
Website: www.hkgp.org
Email: [email protected]

Rare Disease International
Website: www.rarediseasesinternational.org
Email: [email protected]

Hashtag: #HongKongGenomeInstitute

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

About Hong Kong Genome Institute

The Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI), established and wholly owned by the Hong Kong SAR Government, commenced full operations in 2021. With the vision “to avail genomic medicine to all for better health and well-being” and supported by the Health Bureau, HKGI works in close collaboration with the Department of Health, Hospital Authority, medical schools of local universities and other stakeholders to accelerate the development of genomic medicine in Hong Kong along four strategic foci: integrate genomics into medicine, advance research, nurture talents and enhance public genomic literacy.

As the first step towards achieving its vision, HKGI launched the Hong Kong Genome Project (HKGP) in 2021 focusing on diseases and research cohorts that would benefit from whole genome sequencing. They include undiagnosed diseases, hereditary cancers and cases related to genomics and precision health. Being the city’s first large-scale genome sequencing project, HKGP serves as a catalyst to benefit patients and their families with more precise diagnosis and personalised treatment. It also aims to establish genome database of the local population, testing infrastructure and talent pool to address the healthcare needs of Hong Kong in the long run.

For more information, please visit .

About Rare Diseases International
Rare Diseases International (RDI) is the global alliance of people living with a rare disease of all nationalities across all rare diseases. RDI’s mission is to be a strong common voice on behalf of rare disease patients around the world, to advocate for rare diseases as an international public health priority and to represent its members and enhance their capacities. RDI has more than 120 member organizations from 50 countries, which in turn represent rare disease patient groups in more than 150 countries worldwide.

For more information, please visit .

About Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases
The RDI-Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases (RDI-LCRD) is a new initiative dedicated to improving the lives of Persons Living with a Rare Disease (PLWRD) globally by generating evidence-informed recommendations that can be implemented in all countries. The RDI-LCRD, chaired by Dr Roberto Giugliani (Brazil) and Dr Kym Boycott (Canada) brings together 27 Commissioners from 6 continents with a broad range of expertise, perspectives and experience. The overarching goal of the RDI-LCRD is to use robust data to ignite global action that will amplify the voices of PLWRD and ensure that they are seen, heard, and cared for, no matter where they live.

For more information, please visit .

Advertisement

Media OutReach

Credo Assurance Earns ESG Certification to Support Sustainability Reporting

Published

on

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – Credo Assurance, an ACRA-registered audit firm in Singapore, has obtained the ISCA Professional Certification in Sustainability Assurance. The recognition has reflected its readiness to conduct independent reviews of environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting in accordance with established standards.

Credo Assurance Earns ESG Certification to Support Sustainability Reporting

A Response to a Changing Regulatory Environment
Singapore’s corporate sustainability environment has undergone a major transformation in recent years. What began as voluntary corporate social responsibility is now transitioning into a regulated requirement driven by new disclosure mandates. The Singapore Exchange (SGX) requires all listed companies to publish sustainability reports, with climate-related disclosures to be aligned with the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework.

These developments mirror global trends, including the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the proposed climate disclosure rules by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Notably, these frameworks are influencing supply chains and investment decisions worldwide.

A Commitment to Rigorous Standards and Responsible Practice
The certification was issued by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) under the Professional Certification in Sustainability Assurance programme, which focuses on the International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (ISSA 5000). The curriculum also covers key frameworks, such as ISAE 3000, ISO 14064-3, and the reporting principles set out by the Sustainability Reporting Advisory Committee (SRAC).

Participants undergo six months of structured e-learning and a three-day capstone assessment module, which includes a comprehensive 65-question examination. The programme integrates the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and other global reporting standards.

“The certification demonstrates our firm’s dedication to professional rigour and to supporting Singapore’s transition toward a sustainable, transparent economy,” as revealed by Ethan Ong, Director of Credo Assurance. “We aim to strengthen stakeholder confidence and enhance the quality of ESG reporting.”

New Sustainability Assurance Services to Support Businesses Across Sectors
Building on this certification, Credo Assurance has launched its sustainability assurance service. The firm will provide assurance on ESG disclosures, assess internal data controls, and advise on alignment with recognised frameworks such as GRI, ISSB, TCFD, and SASB. In addition, the service covers climate audit and reporting, ESG data verification, and training programmes to help companies integrate sustainability practices into daily operations.

Credo Assurance’s new offering aims to support a wide spectrum of organisations, from listed companies preparing for upcoming SGX requirements to SMEs participating in global supply chains. Industries with significant environmental or social footprints, such as energy, construction, manufacturing, transport, and real estate, are expected to benefit most from independent verification. These services also extend to firms seeking ESG-linked financing or those aiming to enhance their brand credibility and investor trust through transparent reporting.

Shaping the Future of ESG Assurance in Singapore
As Singapore moves toward mandatory climate-related disclosures in 2025, ESG assurance is set to become essential in the audit and accounting sector. Independent verification of non-financial information, such as carbon emissions, labour practices, or governance metrics, helps ensure sustainability reports present accountable and measurable performance.

“ESG assurance is the next evolution of trust in business reporting,” said Mr Ong. “It applies the principles of audit integrity to sustainability, enabling companies to demonstrate both their financial performance and their broader responsibility to society and the environment.”
Hashtag: #CredoAssurance #AccountingFirmSingapore #ESGAssurance


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

About Credo Assurance

Credo Assurance LLP is an ACRA-registered public in Singapore. They provide audit, accounting, and advisory services to both businesses and individuals, helping clients navigate complex regulatory requirements and economic challenges.

Continue Reading

Media OutReach

Understanding Credit Exemptions at SIM: A Guide for Polytechnic and SIM GE Diploma Graduates

Published

on

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – For Polytechnic and SIM GE diploma graduates aspiring to pursue a degree, one common consideration is the time required to complete their studies. SIM Global Education (SIM GE) offers credit exemptions and advanced standing options that may shorten the duration of selected programmes, subject to prior qualifications and programme-specific requirements.

Understanding Credit Exemptions

Credit exemptions enable students to receive recognition for modules previously completed during prior studies. This eliminates the need to repeat similar content, allowing eligible students to focus on new areas of learning. This practice, widely adopted in higher education, ensures students build upon existing knowledge while meeting the academic standards of their chosen degree programme.

Eligibility and Assessment

Credit exemptions at SIM GE are not granted automatically. Each application undergoes a rigorous evaluation to maintain academic integrity. The assessment considers several factors, including the relevance of previous qualifications to the chosen degree, the level and content of prior modules compared to the programme requirements, and the accreditation and recognition of the awarding institution. Through these measures, SIM GE ensures flexibility for students with diverse educational backgrounds while upholding academic excellence.

Types of Exemptions Available

SIM offers several pathways for credit exemptions, depending on prior qualifications and programme requirements. Holders of relevant Polytechnic or equivalent diplomas may receive exemptions that can reduce the overall study duration by up to one year, subject to programme-specific criteria and GPA requirements. Students who have completed SIM GE diplomas or other recognized qualifications may be eligible for advanced standing when enrolling in selected partner university programmes offered through SIM Global Education. For applicants with qualifications outside standard frameworks, exemptions are assessed individually on a case-by-case basis to ensure alignment with academic standards and programme requirements.

Key Information for Applicants

Credit exemptions are designed to acknowledge prior learning while ensuring that all students meet the academic standards of their chosen programme. They are not guaranteed and vary based on factors such as the relevance of previous qualifications, programme requirements, and institutional recognition. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific exemption policies for their intended programme and seek guidance from SIM Counsellors to understand their options.

References:

  1. SIM GE University Partners – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

Continue Reading

Media OutReach

30 Million Strong: China Changan Automobile Group Hits Historic Production Milestone, Ushering in New Era of User-Centric, Tech-Driven Global Growth

Published

on

CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – China Changan Automobile Group today celebrated a historic achievement as its 30 millionth vehicle—an AVATR 12 Quad-Laser Edition—rolled off the line at the AVATR Digital Intelligence Factory. The milestone signals Changan’s evolution into a global intelligent mobility technology company.

“Changan remains committed to delivering smarter, greener, and more fulfilling mobility, meeting the aspirations of global users for a better future.” said Zhu Huarong, Chairman of China Changan Automobile Group.

Uncompromising Safety: The “Safe Journey Home”

Safety is Changan’s top priority, a commitment dating back to 1999 with China’s first minivan crash test. Since then, the company has advanced its protective capabilities from passive safety structures to today’s active safety interventions. Backed by the industry’s only State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Vehicle Safety Technology, Changan uses its proprietary CA-ITVS verification system to subject vehicles to over 5 million kilometers of testing—guaranteeing a lifespan of 10 years or 260,000 kilometers.

In the smart era, Changan is redefining protection with its newly launched “SDA Intelligence”. Moving beyond physical defense, SDA Intelligence introduces a holistic safety ecosystem that secures both passengers and their data, ensuring a “Safe Journey Home” in every dimension.

Tech-Driven: Innovations That Matter

Driven by its Green and Intelligent strategies, Changan is bringing tangible innovations to market. The Green Plan targets electrification, battery safety, and new energy vehicle ecosystems, while the Intelligent Plan advances vehicle intelligence, autonomous systems, and connectivity. Key breakthroughs include the Golden Shield Battery system for superior safety, and the high-frequency pulse heating for cold-weather efficiency. The BlueCore 3.0 powertrain delivers hybrid and ICE solutions, balancing high performance with exceptional fuel economy. These technologies ensure that every journey is efficient and reliable.

A Bold Future: Smart Mobility and Global Reach

Looking ahead to 2030, Changan has unveiled a visionary roadmap to rank among the world’s top 10 automotive brands with annual sales of 5 million units. By 2030, Changan expects over 60% of sales to be new energy vehicles and 30% to come from overseas markets, solidifying its place on the world stage.

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

Continue Reading

Trending