Media OutReach
New Report Calls for Collective Action to Combat Asia’s Growing Antimicrobial Resistance Threat
- 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
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 www.ciip.com.sg.
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 http://philanthropyasiaalliance.org.
Media OutReach
Andrea Bocelli Celebrates 30 Years Anniversary Tour of Romanza with Two Spectacular Concerts in Indonesia
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 August 2026 – Shoemaker Live and Jakarta International Expo are pleased to announce an extraordinary celebration of music and legacy as the incomparable Andrea Bocelli returns to Indonesia with Bank SMBC Indonesia and BNI present: Andrea Bocelli Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour Indonesia. Two Wonders, One Voice, the concerts commemorate three decades of the world’s most celebrated classical crossover albums. The highly anticipated Indonesia leg will present two distinctive performances, beginning at the majestic Borobudur Temple in Magelang on October 31, followed by a second performance at Jakarta International Expo (JIExpo) Kemayoran, Jakarta, on November 3. These two concerts will be Andrea Bocelli’s only public performances in the Asia Pacific region in 2026, making Indonesia the exclusive destination in the region to experience this milestone celebration. Together, the two performances will offer audiences an extraordinary journey through music, artistry, and Indonesia’s diverse cultural landscape.
These two concerts will be Andrea Bocelli’s only public performances in Southeast Asia in 2026, making Indonesia the exclusive destination in the region to experience this milestone celebration. Presented across two remarkable settings, the concerts offer audiences from Indonesia and across Southeast Asia a rare opportunity to witness one of the world’s most celebrated voices live.
“It is truly an honor to bring a world-class maestro like Andrea Bocelli to Indonesia. Music and craftsmanship share a deep connection, both shaped by dedication, patience, and attention to detail. Romanza concert is especially meaningful as it brings this timeless artistry to two remarkable settings, Borobudur and Jakarta, creating moments audiences can cherish long after the music ends,” said Prajna Murdaya, Founder of Shoemaker.
Released 30 years ago, The Romanza album became a defining milestone in Andrea Bocelli’s illustrious career, introducing audiences worldwide to his signature voice and timeless repertoire, including the iconic “Con Te Partirò.” The anniversary tour celebrates the enduring legacy of an album that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
More than a celebration of an iconic album, Bank SMBC Indonesia and BNI present: Andrea Bocelli Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour Indonesia brings together two remarkable destinations and one legendary voice to create an immersive cultural experience. From the historic grandeur of Borobudur to the dynamic atmosphere of Jakarta, the performances reflect the meeting point between global artistry and Indonesia’s rich cultural identity, also to celebrating 30 years of Andrea Bocelli’s musical legacy and creating an unforgettable night that will be remembered and talked about for years to come.
The Indonesia tour also marks an important moment for the country’s growing cultural and entertainment landscape, demonstrating its ability to welcome internationally acclaimed artists while offering audiences The Borobudur performance is envisioned as a once in a lifetime cultural experience, continuing the tradition of Andrea Bocelli’s landmark performance staged at globally renowned heritage sites around the world, from the Pyramids of Giza, the Acropolis, to the Vatican, where extraordinary music, iconic locations and historic settings come together to create truly memorable experiences.
As part of the Borobudur experience, audiences will also discover a cultural village showcasing the best of culturally rich Magelang and Central Java, bringing together the region’s cultural heritage, traditions, and local character. Ticket holders will receive exclusive access to the cultural village on the day of the concert, allowing the experience to extend beyond the performance and into the cultural landscape surrounding Borobudur.
“InJourney plays a strategic role in connecting Indonesia’s aviation and tourism ecosystem from airport and aviation services to hospitality, destinations, and retail to create a seamless, world-class journey for every traveler. International events such as Andrea Bocelli at Borobudur demonstrate the power of this integrated ecosystem to bring Indonesia’s heritage, hospitality, and global connectivity together on the world stage, while strengthening Indonesia’s nation branding through culture and tourism. For us, Borobudur is more than a destination. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful national asset to elevate Indonesia’s position in global tourism. Our ambition is to develop Borobudur as a world-class spiritual, cultural, and pilgrimage destination, also creating meaningful, high-value experiences while preserving its legacy for generations to come,” explained Maya Watono, President Director of InJourney, PT Aviasi Pariwisata Indonesia (Persero).
The Borobudur performance comes amid a growing calendar of cultural experiences around the destination, following Orchestra Month by InJourney and Borobudur Moon, organized by the Magelang Regency Government. Together, these initiatives contribute to a broader effort to position Borobudur and Central Java as destinations where cultural heritage and world-class artistic experiences can come together.
Bank SMBC Indonesia supports Andrea Bocelli’s Landmark Indonesia performance as presenting partner. Commenting on the partnership, Deputy President Director of Bank SMBC Indonesia, Michellina Laksmi Triwardhany, explained that the collaboration reflects Bank SMBC Indonesia’s commitment to bringing together meaningful experiences for its customers and the Indonesian community.
“As Presenting Partner, Bank SMBC Indonesia is proud to support Andrea Bocelli’s performance in Indonesia, particularly at Borobudur, one of Indonesia’s most significant cultural heritage sites. We believe in bringing together masterpieces, moments, and experiences that are meaningful to the Indonesian people. This collaboration is a celebration of extraordinary music, Indonesian’s rich cultural heritage, and the experiences that connect us, “said Dhany
She added that the partnership is aligned with Bank SMBC Indonesia’s commitment to continuously delivering meaningful services, experiences, and innovations that create a positive impact for customers, businesses, society, and the broader Indonesian economy.
Alexandra Askandar, Deputy President Director of Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. (BNI), said, “The arrival of Andrea Bocelli’s Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour in Indonesia is a special moment that further strengthens Indonesia’s position as a destination for world-class cultural experiences. We are proud to be part of bringing this exceptional international performance to audiences in Indonesia.”
Beyond the concert itself, BNI believes an international event of this caliber can create a meaningful multiplier effect for Indonesia’s tourism and creative economy, benefiting sectors ranging from hospitality, transportation, and culinary businesses to MSMEs, while further strengthening Indonesia’s position as a destination for world-class events.
“For BNI, supporting this event is also about creating greater value for our customers. Through various exclusive offers and seamless payment solutions, we aim to make this world-class performance more accessible and enjoyable for BNI customers. We are also pleased to offer our Priority customers special privileges that reflect our commitment to providing a more personalized experience when enjoying this exceptional performance,” said Alexandra
Tickets range for Bank SMBC Indonesia and BNI present: Andrea Bocelli Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour Indonesia starts from IDR 1,000,000 to over IDR 15,000,000 for premium categories. The highest priced ticket categories will also include access to an exclusive pre-event VIP lounge, offering guests a more elevated concert experience. An exclusive 72-hour presale for Jenius and BNI debit and credit cardholders will be held from Friday, August 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM WIB to Monday, August 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM WIB, offering up to 20% off. Tickets are available exclusively via Tiket.com during this period.
To complement the concert experience, ticket purchasers can also access travel bundles combining concert tickets with transportation and hotel stays through Tiket.com. Visitors can further explore curated experiences around Borobudur through InJourney’s MyCandiGuide app and website, making it easier to extend their visit into a broader cultural and destination experience.
Bank SMBC Indonesia and BNI present: Andrea Bocelli Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour Indonesia invites audiences to celebrate three decades of timeless music across two extraordinary destinations in Indonesia. More than an evening of iconic songs, it is an experience to be deeply felt, as Bocelli’s voice brings people together through moments of emotion, connection and wonder. Long after the final note, audiences will not only remember the performance, but carry the feeling of that extraordinary night with them for years to come.
For more information, please visit the official websites andreabocelli.id, and Instagram @shoemakerstudios.
Hashtag: #ShoemakerStudios
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About – Andrea Bocelli
Proclaimed around the world as the icon of the highest Italian vocal tradition, Bocelli has sold in-excess of 90 million albums to date. He improved his singing skills under the guidance of his mentor, Franco Corelli, and initially became widely famous for winning the Sanremo Music Festival in 1994 as the Newcomers section. At the same time, he started his dazzling classical career, performing masterpieces from the opera repertoire on stage – conducted by Lorin Maazel, Seiji Ozawa and Zubin Mehta. The more recent recordings of the Tuscan tenor include Manon Lescaut conducted by Plácido Domingo, Turandot and – released in 2016 – Aida conducted by Zubin Mehta. In 2017, Bocelli recorded La forza del destino and in 2018 he recorded – and performed in theatre – Lucia di Lammermoor.
About – Shoemaker Studios
Shoemaker Studios was founded by Prajna Murdaya, Harmoko Aguswan, and Nikita Dompas and Melon Lemon as a recording studio for world-class artists. It has since grown into a creative platform spanning live event production and live session content, bringing high-caliber music and cultural programming to Indonesian audiences.
In 2019, Shoemaker produced Yo-Yo Ma: The Bach Project Jakarta, the cellist’s first-ever Jakarta concert, setting a new benchmark for international performances in Indonesia. Its live session series, Hearafter, captures artists in unedited, one-take performances: no cuts, no retakes, just a song as it’s actually played.
Shoemaker is now expanding beyond recording and content production into live music, creative lifestyle experiences, and original IP — a shift anchored by its role in Andrea Bocelli’s Romanza 30th Anniversary Tour. The goal: spaces where artists, audiences, and communities meet, exchange inspiration, and experience creativity’s transformative power.
About – Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. (BNI)
PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI), one of Indonesia’s leading banks, is committed to offering a wide range of financial solutions for individuals and supporting the growth and success of businesses—both domestically and globally. Dedicated to building long-term partnerships, BNI provides a comprehensive suite of financial services, including capital loans, trade finance, cash management, project financing, and treasury services. BNI supports Indonesian companies in expanding their global reach while also assisting multinational corporations in entering the Indonesian market.
To learn more about BNI’s products and services, please visit: 
https://www.bni.co.id/
Mr Munafò joined Allianz Trade in 2015 as part of the Multinationals team and has spent over a decade shaping the company’s commercial strategy across four regions. Rising through key account management roles spanning MMEA, APAC, and Northern Europe – including his appointment as Regional Account Director for Northern Europe in 2021 – he was named Group Head of Broker Management and Partnerships in 2025, where he was responsible for defining and executing Allianz Trade’s global commercial and distribution strategy and strengthening broker partnerships across multiple regions. Mr Munafò holds an MBA from POLIMI Graduate School of Management (Politecnico di Milano) and a degree in Law from Università Bocconi with a major in Public Sector and Law.
On this appointment, Rodrigo Jimenez, Regional CEO at Allianz Trade in Asia Pacific, says: “Over the past decade, Scott has built extensive experience across various regions, demonstrating a strong track record in growing commercial portfolios, building strategic partnerships, and maintaining exceptional customer retention. His international experience, commercial leadership, and deep understanding of our business make him exceptionally well positioned to lead our China operations. I am confident that, together with the local management team, Scott will successfully drive our growth ambitions and deliver continued success in this important and fast-growing market.”
Mr Munafò remarks: “Allianz Trade has been part of China’s trade story for nearly two decades – built on the strength of our team, our partners, and our customers who have trusted us through every cycle. I am honoured to be entrusted with what so many have built together. My commitment is simple: to keep listening, to keep creating lasting value and to ensure the next chapter sets a new standard.”
Hashtag: #allianztrade #tradecreditinsurance
https://www.allianz-trade.com/en_HK.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianz-trade-apac/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Allianz Trade
Allianz Trade is the global leader in trade credit insurance and a recognized specialist in the areas of surety, collections, structured trade credit and political risk. Our proprietary intelligence network is based on instant access to data of 289 million corporates. We give companies the confidence to trade by securing their payments. We compensate your company in the event of a bad debt, but more importantly, we help you avoid bad debt in the first place. Whenever we provide trade credit insurance or other finance solutions, our priority is predictive protection. But, when the unexpected arrives, our AA credit rating means we have the resources, backed by Allianz to provide compensation to maintain your business. Headquartered in Paris, Allianz Trade is present in over 40 countries with 5,900 employees. In 2025, our consolidated turnover was EUR4 billion and insured global business transactions represented EUR1,400 billion in exposure. For more information, please visit allianz-trade.com.
A Broader Range of Functional Jelly Concepts
This year, Wel-Bloom will show how varied jelly can be, with examples including visible fruit pieces, whole chia seeds, and high-calcium and collagen-rich formulations. As gummies remain popular, jelly offers greater flexibility in serving size, sweetness and active-ingredient loading, while also allowing for lower-sugar concepts using natural flavoring ingredients.
Taking Jelly Beyond Conventional Formulations
Wel-Bloom’s patented Tri-Safe Jelly Technology forms the foundation of its functional jelly development, demonstrating 97.8% active-ingredient retention and a shelf life of up to two years without added preservatives.
Building on this foundation, Wel-Bloom expanded into oil-based nutrients through NutriOne® Micronized Oil-Fusion Technology. Oil-based nutrients are commonly delivered in capsules or softgels, but swallowable formats may not suit every consumer. NutriOne® provides another option by incorporating oil-based ingredients into a stable, easy-to-consume jelly. The technology received a Gold Award at the World Genius Convention 2026.
Supporting Development with Trusted Manufacturing
As a Taiwan-based CDMO, Wel-Bloom supports projects from formulation and sensory development through stability assessment, pilot testing, scale-up and commercial manufacturing. For brands, choosing a CDMO affects product reliability and the responsibility of their supply chain. Wel-Bloom’s ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory provides technical assurance, while its LEED Silver-certified facility, ISO 14064-1 greenhouse gas management and 2026 B Corp certification reflect its commitment to responsible manufacturing.
At Vitafoods Asia, visitors will be able to sample selected products and discuss product concepts, formulation possibilities and CDMO opportunities with Wel-Bloom’s sales team.
Vitafoods Asia 2026 will take place September 2–4 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. Wel-Bloom will exhibit at Hall 2 Booth #F01.
Hashtag: #WelbloomBioTech
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About Wel-Bloom Bio-Tech
Wel-Bloom is a globally recognized CDMO expert in the health food industry, dedicated to delivering innovative, one-stop solutions. Guided by forward-looking market insights and supported by robust R&D capabilities, Wel-Bloom empowers clients to develop highly competitive, differentiated health food products.
For partnership opportunities and functional ingredient solutions, visit 
https://welbloom.com/ or search for Wel-Bloom online.
See Wel-Bloom in action — watch the latest highlights from our Malaysia forum on market insights and industry conversations: https://youtu.be/Y0VVoyV-NXU?si=lo9JbaI_Cjw5Cb4B
