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New Report Calls for Collective Action to Combat Asia’s Growing Antimicrobial Resistance Threat

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  • The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices and the World Economic Forum’s GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, supported by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance, have released a study urging cross-sector investment to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Asia.
  • AMR could cost Asia up to US$700 billion by 2050 and surpass cancer as the world’s leading cause of death.
  • Report outlines four high-impact intervention areas – from education and prevention to surveillance and treatment – to guide funders and partners.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 May 2025 – The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) and the World Economic Forum’s GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, supported by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA), today launched the report — Targeted Action and Financing the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in Asia.

The report underscores the urgent threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Asia and outlines four key areas where cross-sector funders can drive meaningful impact. It draws on insights from 15 case studies and examples of funding mechanisms, and contributions from 26 organisations, including international organisations, corporations, philanthropic funders, public institutions, and solution providers.

Often called the silent pandemic, AMR was linked to 4.7 million deaths annually in 2021.[1] It is estimated to become the leading cause of death by 2050, claiming more than 8 million lives[2] and surpassing cancer[3]. Beyond human health, AMR threatens global food systems by reducing global livestock production and polluting waterways. Tackling this growing crisis requires a unified, whole-of-ecosystem approach.

“Antimicrobial resistance is a mounting crisis that threatens to reverse decades of medical progress, with Asia at the epicenter of this challenge. We have identified clear needs, but no single organisation can tackle this alone and substantial philanthropic and catalytic funding is required. It demands all actors — across sectors and borders — to step up, pool resources, and collaborate. Together, we hope that through active partnerships, we can build a future where effective treatments remain within everyone’s reach,” said Ms. Dawn Chan, Chief Executive Officer, CIIP.

“The Davos Compact on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), launched earlier in January this year, seeks to mobilise public-private-philanthropic, cross sectoral collaboration to reduce the global and increasing threat of AMR. This report builds on the Davos Compact, highlighting practical, high impact interventions where catalytic investments can help safeguard health and well-being, reducing risks and deaths associated with AMR,” said Ms. Gim Huay Neo, Managing Director, Member of the Managing Board, World Economic Forum.

Asia: A Crucible for the Multifaceted AMR Challenge

Globally, nearly one in five AMR-related deaths occur in children under five[4], and two in three in adults over 65[5]. However, Asia bears the brunt of the disease incidence, accounting for more than half of the 4.71 million deaths worldwide associated with AMR in 2021[6]. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are accelerating bacterial growth and disease transmission, while disrupting healthcare and immunisation services – particularly in regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure and sanitation. These climate-related pressures are also driving the increased use of antimicrobials in livestock and crops, contaminating freshwater sources and fuelling drug resistance.

In Asia Pacific alone, AMR-related costs are projected to reach up to US$700 billion by 2050, accounting for up to 1% of the region’s GDP[7]. However, timely investment in AMR solutions could generate US$10–15 billion in annual healthcare savings, and cut annual socio-economic costs by up to US$40 billion for Asia Pacific within the next decade.[8] Tackling AMR is essential for health security, as well as ensuring long-term economic resilience and sustainable development.

A Unified Approach to Antimicrobial Development and Use

Despite research advancements, market and policy gaps make it challenging to bring new drugs to patients as the costs involved in development and regulatory approval tend to outweigh the immediate returns upon product launch. A One Health approach — one that recognises the interconnectedness and interdependence across humans, animals, plants, and the wider environment — is essential to tackle AMR sustainably.

While new therapeutics such as drugs and vaccines can take 10 to 15 years to develop and launch to market[9] (a marathon), immediate and practical interventions (sprints) are needed to curb resistance today and pave the way for long-term solutions.

The report thus proposes interventions in four areas:

  • Sprint 1: Educate – Improving knowledge and behaviour by strengthening awareness of AMR among clinicians, patients, and farmers; emphasising the importance of avoiding the overuse or abuse of antimicrobials; as well as introducing strategies to prevent infections in the first place.
  • Sprint 2: Prevent – Strengthening health systems and services by boosting preventive measures such as improving diagnostic capabilities and investing in better water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) measures.
  • Sprint 3: Monitor – Enhancing regional surveillance, and data collection and sharing between actors, especially in lower-income countries.
  • Marathon: Treat – Investing in research and development for new antimicrobials, and increasing access to novel and essential medicines.

Financing AMR Solutions At Every Stage

Private funders, impact investors, and philanthropists have a vital role to play in closing critical gaps – particularly in late-stage drug development, where funding is scarce. By pooling resources, funders can help bring life-saving treatments to market, strengthen the antibiotic pipeline, and build more sustainable and widespread access to essential medicines.

“This report is a catalyst for deeper involvement from all sectors — philanthropic, public, and private. It highlights the scale of the AMR threat and the opportunity for collective action. We are encouraged by the ongoing work of organisations – including PAA members like the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, and Novo Nordisk Foundation – in driving AMR research and greater access to affordable solutions. Now is the time for more partners to come together, pool resources, and support high-impact solutions that safeguard health and resilience across Asia and beyond,” said Mr. Shaun Seow, Chief Executive Officer, PAA.

The AMR threat demands urgent, coordinated, and sustained action across healthcare, agriculture, and food systems to protect communities in Asia.

Read the full report here: https://ciip.com.sg/knowledge-hub/research-insights/Details/targeted-action-and-financing-the-fight-against-antimicrobial-resistance-in-asia


[1] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01867-1/fulltext

[2] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01867-1/fulltext

[3] Gavi (2022). Antimicrobial resistance now causes more deaths than HIV/AIDS and malaria worldwide – new study. 20 January 2022. Available at: https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/antimicrobial-resistance-now-causes-more-deaths-hivaids-and-malaria-worldwide-new.

[4] Antimicrobial Resistance Collaborators. (2022). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance in 2019: a systematic analysis. The Lancet, Volume 399, Issue 10325, p629-655. https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)02724-0/fulltext%23supplementary-material&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1744866648294504&usg=AOvVaw0fopMXnonRugpe_OJ7JhIx

[5] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01867-1/fulltext

[6] Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). (2024). The Lancet: More than 39 million deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections estimated between now and 2050, suggests first global analysis. https://www.healthdata.org/news-events/newsroom/news-releases/lancet-more-39-million-deaths-antibiotic-resistant-infections.

[7] L.E.K. Consulting (2021) Asia-Pacific in the Eye of AMR Storm: Nurturing Innovation To Fight Antimicrobial Resistance. https://www.lek.com/sites/default/files/PDFs/Nurturing-Innovation-AMR-management.pdf?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_little-text-block

[8] L.E.K. (2021). Asia-Pacific in the Eye of AMR Storm: Nurturing Innovation To Fight Antimicrobial Resistance. https://www.lek.com/sites/default/files/PDFs/Nurturing-Innovation-AMR-management.pdf

[9] Derep, M. (2022). What’s the average time to bring a drug to market in 2022? N-Side. https://lifesciences.n-side.com/blog/what-is-the-average-time-to-bring-a-drug-to-market-in-2022.

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

About the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices

The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) was established in 2022 as a non-profit entity by Temasek Trust to foster impact investing and practices in Asia and beyond by building and sharing knowledge, bringing together stakeholders in the community, and bringing about positive action that accelerates the adoption of impact investing principles and practices. CIIP is the anchor partner for the United Nation Development Programme’s Private Finance for the SDGs, providing Asia investors and businesses with clarity, insights and tools that support their contributions towards achieving the SDGs. Temasek and ABC Impact are CIIP’s strategic partners. For more information, please visit .

About GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action)

To reach net zero, reverse nature loss and restore biodiversity by 2050, funding for equitable climate and nature transitions must be stepped up by more than $3 trillion annually. No actor can solve these issues alone; only together – through partnerships, elevated ambition and accelerated learning – can the most pressing problems facing the planet be solved. The World Economic Forum launched the GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative to convene 4P – Public, Private and Philanthropic Partnerships – for climate and nature, activating systemic bold partnerships to improve the state of the world.

About Philanthropy Asia Alliance

Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) is a Temasek Trust initiative dedicated to catalysing collaborative philanthropy in Asia through dynamic multi-sector partnerships. By harnessing collective strengths, PAA multiplies impact, accelerates positive change, and takes urgent action to address the pressing environmental and social challenges of our time. PAA’s flagship programme is the annual Philanthropy Asia Summit. For more information, visit .

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Credo Assurance Earns ESG Certification to Support Sustainability Reporting

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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


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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.

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

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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

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

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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.

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