Media OutReach
Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway Reveals Latest Talent Survey Results in Information and Communications Technology and Creative Media Industries
Employers in the ICT and Creative Media Industries Place Greater Emphasis on Soft Skills; Growing Recognition for Higher Diploma Graduates’ Competencies
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – Led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) has conducted its second annual survey, exploring the talent demands of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Creative Media industries. The survey delved into aspects including starting salaries, hiring process duration, in-demand positions and overall talent supply. It aims to provide insights into employer expectations regarding the skills of fresh graduates with higher diplomas or university degrees, while providing valuable reference for students and industries.
This year’s survey results indicate a growing recognition among employers in both industries of the capabilities of higher diploma graduates. In the age of artificial intelligence, employers are placing greater emphasis on soft skills and acknowledging the role of Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) in cultivating talent with market-relevant expertise.
Starting salaries for higher diploma and university degree fresh graduates remain between HKD 17,000 and HKD 23,000
Employers’ recognition of higher diploma graduates improves compared to last year
According to the survey, approximately 60% of employers believed that higher diploma graduates possess soft and hard skills comparable to, or even stronger than, those of university degree graduates. Employers’ recognition of the soft and hard skills of higher diploma graduates has increased by 8.8 and 17.1 percentage points respectively, compared to last year.
This growing acknowledgment is evident in graduates’ starting salaries. In the Creative Media industry, most higher diploma graduates (77.2%) and university degree fresh graduates (66.8%) receive a starting salary of HKD 17,000 to HKD 23,000. Notably, the proportion of higher diploma graduates with starting salaries between HKD 20,000 and HKD 23,000 has risen by 9.7 percentage points compared to last year. In the ICT industry, the majority of higher diploma graduates (68%) fit within the HKD 17,000 to HKD 23,000 starting salary range, mirroring last year’s findings (64.7%), while over half (56.4%) of university degree fresh graduates are in the same salary bracket this year.
Regarding hiring process duration and salary increments, employers in the ICT and Creative Media sectors reported an average time of nearly three months to fill suitable vacancies, with 8.8% of ICT employers indicating that some positions may take more than six months to fill. Some 70% of responding employers expect salary increments for higher diploma and university degree fresh graduates in 2025 to be between 2% and 5.9%, aligning with market expectations.
Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “We are pleased to see a significant annual increase in employers’ recognition of higher diploma graduates’ soft and hard skills. Starting salaries for higher diploma graduates have also increased this year, particularly in the Creative Media sector. This reflects a growing market demand for quality graduate talent and demonstrates that higher diploma graduates with the right skills and qualifications are becoming increasingly competitive in the job market.”
Academic achievements are a lesser priority, with soft skills gaining greater competitiveness in the age of AI
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education and the workplace, the survey revealed that over half (54.6%) of the surveyed employers have fully or partially integrated advanced technologies like AI and generative AI into their daily operations, while over one-third (37.4%) are considering such integration. However, as businesses increasingly adopt these technologies, employers prioritise soft skills such as “curiosity and lifelong learning”, “analytical thinking”, and “resilience, flexibility, and agility”. These skills are deemed more important than the knowledge and skills of AI and big data, which ranks fifth in importance in the next five to ten years.
During job interviews, employers have shifted their focus from candidates’ internships or practical experience to demonstrating soft skills such as communication (81.7%), problem-solving abilities (81.5%) and leadership potential (57.1%). Remarkably, the proportion of employers in the ICT and creative media sectors who value leadership potential surged, nearly doubling and increasing by over 1.7 times respectively compared to the previous year. More than 24.2% of employers in the ICT industry and 17.2% in the Creative Media industry believe that current candidates lack these skills, while academic performance and credentials are considered a lesser priority.
Employers in the Creative Media industry indicate that in the next five to ten years, talent will need to acquire “creative thinking” and “technological literacy” along with skills related to “artificial intelligence and big data”. Patrick Tam, Principal Advisor at 3 Screens Strategic Advisors Limited, an industry partner of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway, stated: “In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, employers are increasingly in need of team members who possess a balanced blend of soft and hard skills. While proficiency in industry-specific skills is crucial, we also value employees who exhibit a strong sense of curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in our daily workflow, it is imperative that our workforce applies their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and judgement to ensure the responsible implementation of AI technologies. The qualities of resilience, flexibility and agility will render employees indispensable in today’s dynamic work environment.”
Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “To ensure that the CLAP-TECH curriculum aligns with industry needs, we engaged with industry partners early on to gain insights into emerging career trends and the essential role of both soft and hard skills. Through a tripartite partnership among HKBU, industry partners and secondary schools, we are dedicated to nurturing talents equipped with the skills necessary for the future workforce. The findings of this survey validate our vision: industry participation is key for talent development, and the significance of soft skills must not be overlooked in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.”
Over 90% of employers agree that vocational education produces more graduates with in-demand skills
The HKSAR Government rebranded vocational education and training in Hong Kong as Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) in 2016, establishing a diverse range of teaching models and pathways for further education. The survey shows that over 90% of respondents believe VPET helps enhance the soft and hard skills, work attitudes and daily competencies of higher diploma graduates, thereby enriching the talent pool. Some 30% of the respondents stated that VPET can “significantly improve” practical skills.
Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “Our survey results indicate a greater awareness among respondents regarding initiatives such as Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS), Industrial Attachment, and Career and Life Planning Grant. However, there remains a general lack of understanding regarding VPET. This highlights the need for the government to enhance VPET and its promotion to both employers and the public, emphasising its critical role in talent development and skills enhancement. This commitment will empower every talented young individual to chart their career paths, fully leverage their strengths and meet the future demands for various professional skills.”
Funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) commissioned a market research company to conduct its second annual online survey in October this year, interviewing a total of 500 local employers who had been involved in the recruitment process in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and/ or Creative Media industries in the past 12 months. Over 60% of the respondents frequently hire employees (every few months or multiple times per month) and have final decision-making authority or influence in the recruitment process.
Hashtag: #claptechpathway
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Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway
Launched in 2020 and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) is Hong Kong’s first through-train Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) pathway in mainstream senior secondary and post-secondary education. CLAP-TECH is a tripartite partnership among Hong Kong Baptist University, industry partners, and secondary schools. It currently consists of two Applied Learning Courses (i.e. Tech Basics and Multimedia Storytelling) and Higher Diplomas in Data Science and Art Tech Design. The programme equips students with technical and soft skills for the future workforce by incorporating career and life development in the curriculum. Since its establishment, over 40 industry partners have been involved in the programme, guiding and inspiring over 1,000 students from 100 secondary schools. For more details, please visit: https://www.claptech.hk/en/
Hungarian-based technology leader underscores its commitment to education, sustainability, and innovation
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 December 2024 – Graphisoft, a global leader in Building Information Modeling (BIM) software for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, is poised to deepen its impact in Southeast Asia, driven by surging demand for advanced digital tools amid the region’s rapid development and growing focus on sustainable construction practices.
Graphisoft’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Daniel Csillag emphasized the importance of the Southeast Asia market to the company’s global growth during his recent visit to Kuala Lumpur with key executives, including Chief Product Officer, Márton Kiss, and Chief Customer Success Officer, Gergely Kmethy.
“Southeast Asia is a growth powerhouse for the construction industry and is poised to be one of the most dynamic regions in the next 20 years. While Japan is experiencing rapid growth, Southeast Asia remains a key focus for us, with its significant potential and opportunities,” said Csillag. “We are excited about the opportunities here and remain committed to strengthen our presence.”
Established in 1982 by Hungarian architects and mathematicians, Graphisoft has grown into a global powerhouse, often called the ancestor of BIM, with over 200,000 users worldwide and 25 offices across 14 countries. At the heart of Graphisoft’s success is its flagship product, Archicad, the world’s leading 3D architectural design software. Archicad was recently honored as BIM Product of the Year 2024 at the prestigious Construction Computing Awards (The Hammers), marking its 14th consecutive win in the category.
Archicad offers an intuitive interface and powerful tools that streamline design documentation, one-click publishing, photo-realistic rendering, and advanced analysis, allowing architects to focus on creativity. Key features include an automated Keynotes system for consistent documentation, enhanced Rhino-Grasshopper integration for faster parametric design, and a cloud-based AI Visualizer for instant, high-quality rendering. It also supports sustainable design with lifecycle assessment tools integrated with One Click LCA and improves renovation workflows with advanced Point Cloud capabilities.
Graphisoft’s confidence in Southeast Asia is bolstered by its strong positioning and recent success stories, including its role in the iconic Merdeka 118 skyscraper – the world’s second-tallest building –– standing as a testament to Archicad’s capabilities. The project exemplifies how Graphisoft’s innovative solutions empower architects and engineers to deliver groundbreaking designs while preserving cultural significance and meeting stringent sustainability goals.
The global AEC industry’s rapid adoption of BIM technologies further underscores Graphisoft’s optimism. The global BIM market, valued at US$8.6 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 16.3%, reaching US$24.8 billion by 2030. In the Asia-Pacific region, the construction market is experiencing a remarkable upward trend, driven by substantial government investments in infrastructure development. Southeast Asia, in particular, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% between 2024 and 2028, underscoring the region’s pivotal role in the industry’s transformation. Initiatives like Malaysia’s Public Works Department (JKR) Strategic Plan 2021-2025, which targets 90% BIM adoption for projects exceeding RM10 million, exemplify the region’s commitment to digital transformation in construction.
Graphisoft’s growth plan in Southeast Asia is supported by a robust network of partnerships designed to meet the unique needs of the local market:
- Industry Collaborations: Partnerships with IME Technology and ACAD Singapore enable Graphisoft to provide localized solutions and training while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
- Academic Integration: Collaborations with institutions like Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and HELP University embed Archicad into architecture and engineering curricula, preparing the next generation of professionals with critical BIM skills.
- Professional Development: Graphisoft works with organizations such as Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) to drive BIM adoption through workshops, conferences, and CPD programs.
“Education is key to growing our reach in Southeast Asia. Planting the seed early by shaping the mindset of students and future users is critical. Advocacy plays a huge role, as professional software adoption often hinges on success stories from architects using our tools. Their achievement is our proof point, and it helps magnify a strong local community and user base,” Kiss shared.
To meet the industry’s evolving needs, Graphisoft is driving innovation through its robust product development roadmap. Central to this effort is the Technology Preview Program which engages over 3,000 beta testers to identify issues and suggest improvements. This collaboration resolved over 100 undetected bugs, ensuring a polished user experience before public release. Building on this foundation, the 2024 BIM solutions update focuses on improving collaboration, streamlining workflows, and strengthening environmental design. Features include real-time and AI-powered visualization tools that enable teams and clients to make faster, more informed decisions.
Looking ahead, Graphisoft is set to introduce AI-powered tools that go beyond design inspiration. “While AI-assisted visualization is great for engaging clients early, the true productivity lies in eliminating repetitive tasks and accelerating documentation,” added Kiss.
Csillag also emphasizes that sustainability is no longer optional in the construction industry. He said, “With 57% of global carbon emissions linked to construction, and 20% of materials wasted due to poor planning, adopting lifecycle analysis and other advanced tools is critical. These solutions not only help minimize waste but also empower architects to propose more sustainable and resilient designs to their clients.”
Csillag remains optimistic about its growth trajectory in the region. “We are closely following the market and working with different geographies. In the next one to two years, we aim to aggregate more staff to support our partners and drive more powerful use of Graphisoft’s solutions in Southeast Asia,” he explained.
As one of the fastest-growing software companies, consistently outperforming the average global design market growth rate of 8% per year, Graphisoft is well-positioned to lead the charge in advancing Malaysia’s architectural and engineering capabilities, shaping a future of smarter, greener, and more ambitious feats.
Hashtag: #Graphisoft #Archicad #BIM
https://graphisoft.com
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About Graphisoft
Graphisoft® empowers teams to design great buildings through award-winning software solutions, learning programs, and professional services for the AEC industry. Our award-winning products and solutions support OPEN BIM for workflow transparency, longevity, and data accessibility for built assets. Archicad®, the architects’ BIM software of choice, offers a complete end-to-end design and documentation workflow for architectural and integrated architectural and engineering practices of any size. BIMx®, the most popular mobile and web BIM app, extends the BIM experience to include all stakeholders in the building design, delivery, and operations lifecycle. BIMcloud®, the AEC industry’s first and most advanced cloud-based team collaboration solution, makes real-time collaboration possible across the globe regardless of the size of the project and the speed or quality of the team members’ network connection. DDScad solutions support users with intelligent Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) design tools, integrated calculations, and comprehensive documentation of all building system disciplines. Graphisoft is part of the Nemetschek Group. To learn more, visit graphisoft.com.
Central to these accolades are organizations that have seamlessly woven environmental responsibility and forward-thinking strategies into their core values. CGS International Securities Pte. Ltd. (CGS International) exemplifies this fusion of innovation and sustainability. With a presence across 15 countries, this financial services firm’s comprehensive offerings—from equities trading to Shariah-compliant financing—have led to a remarkable 169% increase in net profits between 2018 and 2022. More than just numbers, CGS International’s growth is propelled by its careful market expansion, tailored client solutions, and robust CSR initiatives that push the boundaries of Asia’s financial sector toward a greener future.
Another standout is dsm-firmenich, formed through the 2023 merger of Dutch DSM and Swiss Firmenich. Recognized with both “Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives” and “Top Sustainability Advocates in Asia” awards, the global leader in health, nutrition, and beauty has placed sustainability at the heart of its mission. Committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, dsm-firmenich channels innovation into impactful solutions like Bovaer®, reducing methane emissions in cattle, and supports global nutrition initiatives with partners such as the UN World Food Programme. This holistic approach to sustainability—encompassing environmental stewardship and social well-being—sets a new benchmark for responsible industry leadership.
Individual leadership prowess also shone brightly at the awards. Robert Le Busque, Regional Vice President, Asia Pacific at Verizon Business Group, earned recognition as one of Asia’s Outstanding Leaders for guiding his 1,000-strong team across 11 countries. Under his stewardship, Verizon’s business in the region has rapidly grown, especially in cybersecurity solutions, demonstrating that strategic vision and resilience can drive technological advancement, even amid challenging times.
Aviation fuel provider China Aviation Oil (Singapore) Corporation Ltd (CAO) stood out with the Green Innovative Award. By embedding sustainability into its core operations—advancing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), optimizing supply chains, and reducing emissions—CAO illustrates how an industry often associated with environmental challenges can pivot toward responsible, climate-focused solutions.
Similarly, Gain City Best-Electric Pte Ltd, celebrated as one of Asia’s Most Influential Companies, has carved out a niche that intertwines operational efficiency, digital innovation, and eco-conscious practices. Having integrated retail, wholesale, logistics, and fabrication, Gain City ensures a seamless customer experience while simultaneously championing e-waste recycling, renewable energy collaborations, and sustainable regional expansion.
Technology-driven transformation took center stage with Certis, named one of the Innovative Tech Companies of the Year. Once a traditional security provider, Certis has reinvented itself through its Mozart platform, which orchestrates AI, machine learning, and IoT technologies. This modernization has yielded a 66% improvement in incident response times and a 20% reduction in manpower, setting new standards for operational excellence, safety, and service delivery.
Visionary leadership in sustainability was further exemplified by Dr. Victor Tay, Group CEO of Global Catalyst Advisory. Honored as one of Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives, Dr. Tay’s “people-planet-profit” philosophy ensures that reducing carbon footprints becomes a catalyst for business growth. Under his direction, projects have cut emissions by up to 35% and influenced sustainability dialogues in forums as prestigious as COP28.
Rounding out this constellation of achievers is China Life Insurance (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., winner of Asia’s Leading SMEs Award. By integrating cutting-edge digital tools such as the OneLife core system and Robotic Process Automation into its operations, and by cultivating meaningful partnerships and community initiatives, China Life Singapore exemplifies how innovation and social responsibility can coexist and strengthen one another.
The 2024 ACES Awards shine a spotlight on a region—and a nation—evolving rapidly toward a sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced future. From robust financial services and cutting-edge corporate transformations to nutrition solutions that feed both people and the planet, Singapore’s prominent showing among the 250 finalists reaffirms its role as a beacon of progress in Asia. As these honorees chart the path forward, they collectively underscore a simple truth: leadership in the 21st century demands not only profitability and growth, but also a steadfast commitment to bettering the world we all share.
Hashtag: #ACESAwards2024 #RegionalRecognition #leadershipexcellence #Sustainability #SustainableCompanies #responsibleleaders #outstandingentrepreneurs
https://www.acesawards.com/The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ACES Awards
The ACES Awards, organized by MORS Group, recognize and celebrate the region’s most exemplary leaders, companies, and initiatives. By spotlighting transformative approaches to leadership and corporate excellence, the awards inspire continued innovation, promote sustainable practices, and encourage inclusive growth throughout Asia’s diverse and dynamic business ecosystem.
Media OutReach
Fushi Technology to Launch AI Agent Industry Vertical Applications, Accelerating Southeast Asia Market Expansion
Fushi Technology is an investment of Hong Kong-listed company Yeahka Limited (9923.HK). In 2024, Fushi already expanded its client base in Southeast Asia, including over 200 global and regional brands such as Starbucks, MUJI, Pizza Hut, New Balance, Levi’s, KOI, and Mr. Coconut, covering markets in Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia, with over 20,000 stores in total.
Fushi’s achievements can be attributed to two key drivers: The first driver is the synergies created by its partnership with Yeahka. Leveraging the payment technology, service expertise, and applied artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that are already validated in China, Fushi provides more attractive business empowerment solutions for merchants across the Asia-Pacific region.
The second key driver is that Fushi itself places great importance on the localization of its SaaS product development and operations functionalities. By continually harnessing the market attributes and customer preferences in different vertical industries overseas, Fushi has enriched its in-house product portfolio and greatly improved service efficiency, enhancing the breadth and depth of its business empowerment capabilities for clients, while also increasing customer retention. The launch of Fushi’s AI Agent industry vertical application is also driven by the needs of those overseas clients outside of China.
Currently, Fushi’s AI Agent primarily targets the food and beverage industry. Customers can use conversational natural language, either through voice or text, on the brand’s official app or website to inquire about various information related to restaurants and food, as well as place orders and make payments. This will significantly enhance the customer experience and improve order conversion rates. In the future, Fushi will also collaborate with Ascentis, a leading CRM company in Singapore that Fushi recently acquired, to develop a marketing AI agent, allowing businesses to automatically plan and execute marketing campaigns and manage customer relationships through natural language.
AI Agents are intelligent entities based on large language models (LLMs) that can autonomously understand, plan, make decisions, and perform complex tasks. Unlike traditional large models, AI Agents not only tell you “how to do” something, but also help you “do it.” According to Deloitte, AI Agents are reshaping industries in unprecedented ways. They not only expand the application scope of generative AI but also enhance AI capabilities through multi-agent AI systems.
For example, after launching the AI-driven AXON2.0 advertising marketing engine, Applovin saw an increase in advertising monetization rates, with third-quarter revenue rising by 39% year-on-year and net profit growing by 300% year-on-year. As of December 20th, Applovin’s stock price has increased by over 700% this year.
With AI Agents reshaping traditional industries and technologies, more industry disruptors are expected to emerge. Jared, a partner at Y Combinator and a senior investor, recently analyzed the market, predicting that vertical AI Agents could become a new market that is 10 times larger than SaaS, potentially creating technology giants with market values exceeding $300 billion each. With China’s expansion into overseas markets, Fushi is poised to seize new market opportunities, thanks to its long-standing experience in serving merchants in combination with the addition of proprietary AI Agents.
Hashtag: #AI
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