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New Research from ACES Institute Examines the True Cost of “Doing the Right Thing” in Business

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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 April 2026 – The ACES Institute has officially released its latest comprehensive research publication titled “Doing Things Right, Doing the Right Things: The Scramble for the Soul of an Organisation.” The study provides a rigorous analysis of the modern corporate dilemma between operational efficiency and ethical conviction, introducing a leadership framework designed to help global organizations navigate increasingly fragmented stakeholder expectations.

Ren Li, Founder and CEO of Letright Industrial Corp., Ltd., whose commitment to ‘doing the right things’ led the company’s pivotal shift toward sustainable materials long before it became an industry standard.

The research, authored by Research Strategist Ager Freddy, Senior Researcher Timothy Benson, and ACES Institute President Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, argues that the phrase “doing the right thing” is frequently invoked in business discourse as a universal moral ideal, yet it is rarely examined through the lens of operational cost and strategic trade-offs. The study identifies that what is considered “right” varies significantly depending on the stakeholder ranging from regulatory compliance for governments and governance standards for investors to fair wages for employees and responsible resource use for environmental advocates.

The 4Cs Framework and Institutional Resilience

Central to the publication is the introduction of the 4Cs leadership framework: Creativity, Conscientiousness, Constancy, and Collaboration. According to the ACES Institute, these four pillars are essential for embedding ethical considerations directly into an organization’s product design, engineering processes, and corporate culture. The researchers suggest that by moving beyond surface-level corporate social responsibility and toward an institutionalized philosophy, companies can build a foundation for long-term differentiation and resilience.

The study acknowledges that this values-driven approach often necessitates difficult decisions that may carry significant short-term costs. Organizations pursuing deep sustainability or ethical strategies may face higher production expenses, skepticism from traditional market analysts, and resistance from consumers who express support for sustainability in theory but remain sensitive to price in practice. Furthermore, the research explores how global economic and political dynamics, such as shifting regulations and differing sustainability standards across international markets, complicate the efforts of leaders to maintain a consistent ethical stance.

Case Study Analysis: Letright Industrial Corp., Ltd.

To provide empirical evidence for these findings, the report examines the multi-decade journey of Letright Industrial Corp., Ltd., a manufacturer of premium outdoor living products. Under the leadership of founder and CEO Ren Li, the company made a pivotal decision in the early 2000s to abandon wood then the dominant material in the industry in favor of recyclable materials such as aluminum. This decision was driven by personal conviction regarding environmental impact rather than immediate market demand or regulatory requirements.

The case study illustrates the “Constancy” pillar of the ACES framework, noting that the move initially triggered significant resistance. During this period, customers continued to prefer traditional materials, employees questioned the strategic shift, and management warned of the financial consequences of declining orders. However, the research highlights that by persisting through this uncertainty, Letright successfully transitioned from an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to an original design manufacturer (ODM). This shift allowed the company to build its own intellectual property, eventually leading to the development of the Ombra solar smart pergola, which integrates photovoltaic technology for renewable energy generation.

Executive Perspective on Global Leadership

“Organisations today operate in a landscape where expectations rarely align,” stated the authors of the study. “What appears responsible to one group may be viewed as inadequate or even harmful by another. Ultimately, ethical leadership does not mean achieving universal approval or avoiding difficult decisions. Instead, it requires organisations to define their own principles and align strategy, operations, and innovation around those values.”

The publication concludes that while “doing the right things” does not guarantee universal agreement, organizations that clearly define their values and consistently act on them are statistically more likely to build lasting relevance and resilience in an increasingly complex business environment. This research forms a key part of the ACES Institute’s ongoing mission to examine the intersection of leadership, sustainability, and responsible corporate transformation across global industries.
Hashtag: #ACESInstitute #LetrightIndustrial

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About ACES Institute

ACES Institute is a Kuala Lumpur-based research and thought leadership organisation focused on responsible leadership, sustainability, and organisational transformation. Through industry research, case studies, and strategic insights, the institute works with global companies and experts to explore how organisations can create long-term value while addressing complex economic, social, and environmental challenges.

About Letright Industrial Corp., Ltd. | Ombra Brand

Letright Industrial Corp., Ltd. is a global manufacturer of premium outdoor living solutions, specialising in innovative pergolas, outdoor furniture, and lifestyle products. Headquartered in Hangzhou, China, the company combines design innovation, advanced engineering, and environmentally responsible materials to deliver sustainable outdoor experiences for residential and commercial markets worldwide.

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Motorist study: Singapore used car buyers are doing more research than ever before, but trust still falls short

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24 hours ago

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28/04/2026

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  • Singapore car buyers still lack confidence due to unclear pricing and inconsistent information, even after weeks of research.
  • Consumers spend up to four weeks researching before visiting a dealership, yet gaps in consumer trust persist.
  • Buyers are up to 3 times more likely to return to the same dealership when pricing is clearly itemised.
  • Trust is becoming a stronger decision driver than price when comparing similar vehicles.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – More than half of Singapore used car buyers compare multiple options before making a purchase, yet many still experience uncertainty due to unclear pricing and inconsistent information across the market.
Navigating the Market: The Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026 provides Singaporean car buyers with data-driven insights and a clear path toward transparent vehicle purchases.

This tension between effort and confidence is a key finding from the Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026, based on insights from over 5,000 respondents, pointing to a growing gap between how informed buyers are and how much they trust the process.

More effort, same uncertainty
Consumers today are spending significantly more time researching before committing. On average, buyers take between two to four weeks to evaluate listings, compare options, and review information online before visiting a dealership.
Yet, despite this increased effort, confidence remains uneven. Many respondents cited persistent concerns around hidden fees, unclear valuation methods, and inconsistent inspection standards and issues that continue to undermine trust at the point of decision.
Transparency emerging as the deciding factor
The study found that transparency – particularly in pricing, vehicle condition, and trade-in valuations – is now a key driver of consumer confidence.
Buyers who received clear, itemised pricing breakdowns were up to three times more likely to return to the same dealer, underscoring how trust directly influences long-term customer relationships.
While price remains important, factors such as warranty clarity, after-sales support, and dealer credibility are increasingly shaping final decisions, particularly when comparing similar vehicles.
Persistent risks continue to shape buyer behaviour
The findings reflect ongoing challenges in Singapore’s used car market, where buyers continue to encounter issues such as:
– Hidden or unexpected charges
– Disputes over warranty coverage
– Lack of clarity in transaction processes
These risks reinforce the importance of due diligence and consistent standards across the industry.
Industry context: strengthening consumer protection
The findings come amid broader efforts to improve transparency and accountability within the sector.
The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has consistently encouraged buyers to transact with accredited dealers that adopt clear contractual practices and provide additional consumer safeguards.

“Consumers are encouraged to look out for CaseTrust-accredited motoring businesses when making a purchase,” said Mr Melvin Yong, president of CASE. “These accredited dealers are required to adopt clear agreements and maintain safeguards that provide an added layer of protection for consumers.”

A market at an inflection point

The findings suggest that Singapore’s used car market is entering a more mature phase – where informed, cautious buyers expect greater transparency, consistency, and accountability.

As expectations continue to rise, the ability to provide clear information and build trust will increasingly define both consumer confidence and long-term competitiveness in the market.

For a deeper look into the factors and data which shapes today’s car-buying decisions, please access the full Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026 for more information on the used car landscape.

Download the Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026: link
Hashtag: #Motorist #Automotive







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Motorist

Motorist is a Singapore-based automotive platform dedicated to help drivers manage vehicle ownership through services such as buying and selling cars, insurance comparison, and financing tools. The Motorist Super App provides a comprehensive range of services, catering to all aspects of vehicle ownership and management.

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2026 Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing Kicks Off in May

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1 day ago

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28/04/2026

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World’s Only Sulfuric Fire Fishing Method: Come Witness a Maritime Marvel

NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – As the “bong sound bursts out, the firelight pierces the night and illuminates the sea surface off Jinshan. The spectacular sight of blue-scale fish leaping from the water unfolds every summer and autumn in Northern Taiwan. The 2026 Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing land-and-sea tours will take place from May 9 to September 27. Be sure to seize the opportunity during this limited five-month annual window to experience the unique charm of the world’s only sulfuric fire fishing method.

Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing is the world’s only sulfuric fire fishing method. (Photo by FuJi Fish Studio)

“Bong-hué-á” (Sulfuric Fire Fishing) is a traditional fishing method passed down in Taiwan for a century. It uses sulfuric fire to attract fish and is named after the “bong” sound produced during ignition. With promotion by the North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area Administration and local teams, it has gradually transformed into a featured experience with both cultural and tourism value, making its way onto the international stage.

The land-based tours include the popular “Fire Captain’s Lighting Experience,” allowing the participants to feel the immersive shock of holding a torch in a safe environment. Additionally, it combines guided tours of the Huanggang Fishing Village, readings of the Fish Road Historic Trail, and drying fish experiences to showcase the history and living culture of the village.

After boarding the boat in the evening, visitors can taste fresh squid rice noodles. At night, a maritime ecological experience begins, offering views of the Twin Candlestick Islets from afar and engaging in sea fishing. When the sulfuric fire is ignited and the light reflects on the sea, lucky visitors can witness the precious sight of fish leaping out of the water and taste freshly caught fish.

Every sulfuric fire journey is a precious gift presented by nature and cultural history. The North Coast possesses world-class landscapes such as the world’s only sulfuric fire fishing method, the Jinshan and Wanli hot springs, and Yehliu Geopark. Domestic and international travelers are welcome to the North Coast to enjoy sustainable travel.

Hashtag: #JinshanSulfuricFireFishing #SulfuricFireFishing #Jinshan

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Chinatown Singapore’s Five Footway Festival Returns with Street Performances and Cultural Experiences

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1 day ago

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28/04/2026

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – Australian travellers looking for a short-haul cultural escape to Singapore this May can experience the Five-Footway Festival, which is taking place from 2–10 May 2026 in Chinatown Singapore Smith Street.

Organised by the Chinatown Business Association, the Festival celebrates the theme “Our Living Heritage,” transforming Chinatown Singapore’s iconic five-footways into vibrant spaces of culture, storytelling and community.

Festival Highlights:

Visitors can look forward to a lively line-up of cultural programming, including:

  • Live stage performances by established groups such as Chin Woo, presenting traditional lion dances; Tian Eng, known for their captivating face-changing acts; and Choy’s Brothers, delivering an action-packed musical performance.
  • Visitors can also participate in ticketed cultural including paper folding, tea appreciation, opera appreciation and a hands-on traditional wife-cake baking experience.
  • Cultural experiences such as Beijing Opera makeup experience, where participants can learn about the intricate artistry behind this traditional art form
  • Community storytelling, where artisans and elders share personal histories across generations
  • Game booths featuring traditional childhood games such as pick-up sticks, five stones and glass marbles

More than a festival, the event brings to life the historical significance of five-footways as communal spaces—offering visitors a deeper understanding of Singapore’s multicultural roots while engaging directly with its living traditions.

For Australians planning a May escape, the Five-Footway Festival presents a timely opportunity to experience Singapore beyond its skyline—through culture that is not just preserved, but actively lived.

Set against the backdrop of conserved shophouses, Chinatown Singapore offers a compelling mix of old and new—just minutes from the city centre and key lifestyle attractions. The Festival site is walking distance from Chinatown MRT and Maxwell MRT.

With frequent direct flights from major Australian cities, Singapore remains an easy and appealing destination for a cultural getaway or long weekend escape.

More details of the Five Footway Festival can be found on fivefootway.chinatown.sg.

Hashtag: #Chinatown #FiveFootwayFestival




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