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Social Enterprise Summit 2025 Officially Opens in Hong Kong “Unleashing Passion & Purpose for Social Innovation – HK & GBA” Uniting Across Borders, Generations, and Sectors to Forge Sustainable Solutions for Global Challenges

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2025 – The Social Enterprise Summit (SES 2025) officially opened at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Under the theme “Unleashing Passion & Purpose for Social Innovation – HK & GBA”, the Summit showcases successful cases from Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and around the world to promote the positive impact and practical applications of social innovation and social enterprises. Guided by the core belief of “Uniting Across Borders, Generations, and Sectors”, SES 2025 aims to reshape systems, connect changemakers from Hong Kong and across the globe, foster the exchange of ideas, and build partnerships to co-create more inclusive and resilient communities.

The four-day International Symposium will feature over 60 distinguished speakers, including experts, scholars, and business leaders from around the world. They will share successful case studies and valuable insights on how to connect civil society, the business sector, government, academia, and local communities, highlighting the transformative power of social innovation in driving systemic change.

Dr CA TSE, Co-chairs of the Organising Committee of SES 2025, remarked “Social entrepreneurship has been developing in Hong Kong for over 20 years. In recent years, alongside many young social innovators actively engaging in the sector, there has also been growing interest among retirees who see social innovation as a meaningful second act. With the theme ‘Unleashing Passion & Purpose for Social Innovation – HK & GBA’, this year’s Summit explores diverse perspectives—from empowering marginalised groups to advancing sustainable development—aiming to inspire changemakers to co‑create lasting solutions for complex challenges. New this year is the ‘SES x Good Lab: Social Innovation Tour @ The Greater Bay Area’, which will bring together experts from mainland China to exchange insights and share experiences. Through dialogue and collaboration, the Summit demonstrates how social innovation can drive systemic change and make transformation possible.”

Mr Clarence LEUNG, Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs of the HKSAR Government, added “The Social Enterprise Summit is a highly regarded annual event within Hong Kong’s social enterprise sector. Each year, we are delighted to see many new young faces, demonstrating that more creative and ambitious young people are joining the social enterprise community, bringing positive energy and generating greater social impact. In recent years, many social enterprises have also harnessed artificial intelligence technologies and innovative cross‑sector collaborations to meet diverse social needs and contribute to society. The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau will continue to adopt a multi‑pronged approach, introducing flexible and versatile measures to connect different sectors of society and support the flourishing development of social enterprises in Hong Kong”

Following the Opening Ceremony, the Keynote Speech and Open Forum featured leading voices from across the globe: Mr Jaff SHEN, Co-founder and CEO of the Leping Social Entrepreneur Foundation, shared insights on the evolution and future of social innovation across China and Asia. Professor Stephen CHEUNG Yan-leung, SBS, JP, President of Saint Francis University, examined how future generations should understand social entrepreneurship through education, particularly in an AI-driven world where integrating Social Entrepreneurship (SE) and Social Innovation (SI) is increasingly essential. Dr KK TSE, Founder of ReWirement Action HK and “Social Innovtation Thought Leader 2020” recognised by the Schwab Foundation, reflected on his decades of experience in the field. Mr Gerry HIGGINS, Founder and Managing Director of the Social Enterprise World Forum, offered a global perspective on building vibrant ecosystems and fostering international collaboration. Ms Jinhui YANG, Secretary of the Party Committee and Director of the Yulin East Road Community Neighbourhood Committee in Chengdu City, shared her experience in community development and inclusive urban growth.

The Impact Story session was delivered by Prof Martin ZHU, CEO and Co-founder of i2Cool, who presented his journey from developing electricity-free cooling solutions to mitigate urban heat island effects and reduce carbon emissions, to establishing a green-tech enterprise applying innovative cooling materials.

From Day Two onwards, the International Symposium will explore pressing social issues under three core themes: “Sectors for Social Innovation”, “Changemakers and Innovators with Impact”, and “Sustaining the SI Ecosystem”. Topics include healthcare system reform, creating shared value, social innovation in the Greater Bay Area, and nurturing entrepreneurs equipped to tackle complex challenges with transformative solutions. As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the world, discussions will spotlight how cross-sector collaboration can spark AI-driven innovations to address societal needs. Running concurrently during the first two days, the “Changemakers Gallery” will feature more than 20 organisations showcasing their latest projects and engaging with participants to foster connections and inspiration. In response to economic uncertainty and shifting market demands, SES 2025 will also host a workshop titled “Is Your Social Enterprise Ready for Anything?”, equipping participants with practical tools, strategies, and inspiration to build resilient enterprises.

On Day Three, signature events include “Change for Impact 2025: How Might We Innovate for the Longevity Age?”, the “SES x Chinachem Group Impact Booster 2025 – Selection Showcase” for secondary school students, and the “Social Innovation Lai Chi Kok” guided tour, which will explore the district’s unique ecosystem and foster community collaboration.

Additionally, SES 2025 will launch the inaugural “SES x Good Lab: Social Innovation Tour @ The Greater Bay Area”, inviting social innovators, policymakers, and youth representatives to visit key hubs across the region, gaining insights into local innovation models and policy support mechanisms while collectively exploring long-term development.

Hashtag: #SocialEnterpriseSummit #SES2025

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Apical Strengthens Women’s Health to Support Stunting Prevention in Cilincing, North Jakarta

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 December 2025 – Apical continues to reinforce its commitment to preventing and reducing stunting by prioritising women’s health in Cilincing subdistrict, North Jakarta. Through its business unit, PT Asianagro Agungjaya (PT AAJ), Apical collaborated with the Cilincing Community Health Centre (Puskesmas Cilincing) to implement community-based programmes focused on women’s health and early stunting prevention.

The initiative was launched on 15 December 2025 at the RW 03, RW 09 and RW 10 community offices within the Cilincing public housing complex. Targeting women of reproductive age, the programme was designed as a preventive effort to raise awareness and improve access to essential health services, particularly reproductive health, as a foundation for healthy families and future generations.

Apical’s CSR Manager, Sugiantoro, said the collaboration reflects the company’s long-term, preventive approach to public health. “We believe that healthy women are the pillars of strong families and a key force in shaping healthy communities. Through PT AAJ’s involvement, we aim to create tangible impact by prioritising early prevention, rather than focusing solely on treatment,” he said.

A key focus of the initiative was the early detection of cervical cancer, a serious but largely preventable disease when identified through routine screening and timely intervention. Services provided included IVA screening (visual inspection with acetic acid) and HPV (human papillomavirus) testing.

Dr Kezia Ivana from the Cilincing Community Health Centre explained that IVA and HPV screenings are effective methods for detecting cervical cancer at an early stage.

“Early detection allows us to identify the virus that causes cervical cancer sooner, significantly reducing the risk of disease progression. When detected early, the chances of recovery are very high. However, if left undetected, cervical cancer can lead to severe pain, abnormal bleeding, kidney and urinary tract disorders, swelling of the legs, and fertility problems that may prevent women from having children,” she said.

Apical’s participation in this initiative aligns with the company’s 5Cs philosophy that whatever it does must be good for the Community, Country, Climate and Customer, and only then will it be good for the Company, which underpins its commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth. Through partnerships with local stakeholders, Apical, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, continues to support government efforts to address stunting while contributing to improved social and women’s health outcomes, particularly in communities surrounding its operational areas.
Hashtag: #RGE #Apical #CSR #Stunting #Indonesia #Women #Health #Communities

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About Apical

Apical is a leading vegetable oil processor with an expanding global footprint. Our vertically integrated mid-stream refining and value-added downstream processing makes us an integral supplier that supports the needs of various industries namely food, feed, oleochemicals and renewable fuel, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) which enables a great reduction of CO2 emissions.

With integrated assets in strategic locations spanning Indonesia, China and Spain, Apical operates numerous refineries, oleochemical plants, renewable fuel plants and kernel crushing plants. Through joint ventures and strategic partnerships, Apical also has processing and distribution operations in Brazil, India, Pakistan, Philippines, Middle East, Africa, USA and Vietnam.

Apical’s growth is built on the foundations of sustainability and transparency, and motivated by our strong belief that we can contribute to a circular economy for a more meaningful impact, even as we continue to grow our business and deliver innovative solutions to our customers.

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Vingroup Signs Strategic Cooperation with The Government of Uzbekistan, Opening Large-Scale Investment Opportunities in Central Asia

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HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 December 2025 – Vingroup announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan to promote cooperation and implement multi-sector projects in Uzbekistan. The agreement marks the beginning of a long-term cooperation plan between the two sides across multiple key sectors, while opening large-scale investment opportunities for the Vietnamese corporation in Central Asia, contributing to the strengthening of economic and investment ties between Vietnam and Uzbekistan.

Mr. Kasimov Ilzat Ablaxatovich, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan (left), and Mr. Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman and CEO of Vingroup (right), at the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Under the MOU, the two parties agreed to jointly study and develop strategic cooperation opportunities in areas such as urban development, sustainable transportation, tourism and leisure infrastructure, as well as other investment projects aligned with Uzbekistan’s development orientation, affirming the scale and capabilities of Vietnamese enterprises on the global economic map.

Specifically, in the area of urban development, Uzbekistan is ready to allocate approximately 1,000 hectares of land in a prime location of the capital Tashkent for Vingroup to study, propose, and invest in the development of a large-scale, integrated urban complex. The project would include residential areas, living infrastructure, commercial and cultural facilities, and public infrastructure facilities. The development is envisioned to form a “Vietnam Town”, creating a modern and sustainable urban landmark while enhancing cultural exchange and economic cooperation between the two countries.

In the field of sustainable transportation, Vingroup has proposed studying the deployment of electric taxi and urban mobility services using VinFast electric vehicles in Uzbekistan, together with a charging infrastructure system and support services. The project is expected to contribute to the green transition, reduce emissions, and improve the quality of urban transportation services in major Uzbek cities.

In tourism and leisure infrastructure, the two sides will explore the potential development of integrated tourism and recreational center, including entertainment facilities, hotels, golf courses and related tourism infrastructure, aiming to unlock tourism potential and enhance Uzbekistan’s attractiveness to international visitors.

In addition, this strategic cooperation also establishes a framework for the two parties to identify, assess, and select other potential investment projects that align with the development strategies and long-term priorities of each side.

On the Uzbek government’s side, the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade committed to supporting Vingroup by providing information on the investment environment, legal framework, and incentive policies, as well as coordinating with relevant authorities and local governments in project preparation, including land allocation, licensing, and access to investment support mechanisms in accordance with legislation.

On Vingroup’s side, the Group will propose conceptual proposals, technical expertise and investment plans, participate in feasibility studies and project structuring, and mobilize member companies within the Vingroup ecosystem to implement suitable projects in Uzbekistan.

Mr. Kasimov Ilzat Ablaxatovich, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan, stated: “We welcome Vingroup’s interest and commitment to cooperation in Uzbekistan. With its experience in urban development, sustainable transportation, and infrastructure projects, Vingroup is considered a strategic partner to jointly explore and implement investment initiatives aligned with Uzbekistan’s socio-economic development priorities in the coming period.”

Mr. Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman and CEO of Vingroup, shared: “Uzbekistan is a market with strong potential, supported by a clear development direction and an improving investment environment. Through this Memorandum of Understanding, Vingroup aims to gradually explore suitable cooperation opportunities and work alongside the Government of Uzbekistan in developing urban areas, sustainable transportation, and sectors that bring positive contributions to local communities.”

Uzbekistan holds a strategic position in Central Asia, with a growing economy and strong potential in urban development, infrastructure, tourism, and services. The Government of Uzbekistan is actively promoting reforms and attracting foreign investment to drive sustainable economic growth and international integration.

Vingroup is Vietnam’s leading private multi-sector corporation, operating across six core pillars: Industrials & Technology, Real Estate & Services, Infrastructure, Green Energy, Culture, and Social Enterprises, with the vision “To create a better life for people”. With its proven reputation, scale and capabilities, Vingroup is steadily expanding globally, contributing to elevate the global standing of Vietnamese enterprises.

Hashtag: #Vingroup

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Vietnam Is Shining, and Can Gio Is the Hidden Jewel Awaiting Its Moment

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CAN GIO, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 December 2025 – In 2024, when Hines released its seminal report Why Asia Now, the message was simple yet profound: The world’s most compelling growth story was shifting eastward. At that time, global markets were turbulent but still predictable.

Vinhomes Green Paradise: A Hidden Gem Poised to Shine in Vietnam’s Real Estate Market.

A year later, the landscape has morphed into something far more complex, rippling with tariff shocks, persistent inflation, rising bond yields, and growth downgrades across traditional economic powerhouses. The world feels as if it is moving through a narrow channel, buffeted by waves from every direction. And yet, amid all the noise, Asia has not only held its ground but stepped forward with a clarity and confidence that few regions can match.

Why Asia Now: A New Era of Resilience, Growth, and Opportunity

The forces shaping Asia’s rise have been gathering momentum for decades. What we are witnessing now is their convergence. Asia is not simply adapting to global volatility, it is redefining the foundations of resilience and growth. Its economies are becoming wealthier, stronger, and more self-reliant, and its real estate markets are revealing layers of opportunity that long-term investors have waited years to see.

The near-term picture, though challenged, underscores this resilience. Tariffs have uneven effects, and countries with strong domestic engines such as Australia are absorbing shocks with surprising ease.

But it is the longer horizon that illuminates Asia’s true arc. The region’s working-age population and middle class have expanded at a breathtaking pace, setting the stage for decades of consumption-led dynamism. Education levels are rising, service sectors are flourishing, and manufacturing capabilities are climbing the value chain.

Meanwhile, intra-Asia trade has quietly become the backbone of global commerce, with Asia-to-Asia routes now forming the largest share of world trade. As the region turns inward, not in isolation, but in self-reinforcing collaboration, Asia ex-China is projected to contribute more to global growth than the United States and Europe combined.

Real estate, often seen as a mirror for economic sentiment, is telling a similar story. Transaction volumes across Asia have been less volatile than those in Western markets, and pricing has remained more stable, offering a predictable return profile. Supply constraints, elevated construction costs, and a decade-low pricing position relative to long-term trends are creating what can only be described as an extraordinary entry window.

Why Capital is Flowing into Vietnam

If Asia’s trajectory could be captured in a single idea, it would be the beginning of a Value Uprising, a structural rise in long-term asset worth, powered by demographics, policy, and economic integration, rather than speculation.

From this continental narrative emerges Vietnam, a nation whose ascent is increasingly impossible to ignore. Over the past decade, Vietnam has transformed from a rising star into a gravitational force for global investors. Supply chain diversification has accelerated its role as a manufacturing and logistics nexus. Even with global tariffs shifting, Vietnam’s logistics sector continues to expand in sophistication, efficiency, and international relevance. Its demographic profile, marked by a median age years younger than China, offers a demographic dividend that many Asian economies have already spent. And as Southeast Asia’s digital backbone grows, Vietnam is stepping into the spotlight as one of the region’s next major data-center markets, a signifier of future industrial depth.

Ho Chi Minh City, in particular, has entered a new chapter. Its standing among Asia-Pacific cities for investment and development has climbed steadily, reflecting not only macroeconomic resilience but the confidence of global capital. It has become a symbolic frontier, an emerging metropolis where the contours of modern Asia are being redrawn.

At the heart of Vietnam’s momentum lies another extraordinary phenomenon: The consistent and rising flow of remittances. Vietnam ranks among the world’s top recipients, and Ho Chi Minh City alone welcomed over USD 9.46 billion in 2023, USD 9.6 billion in 2024, and more than USD 5.3 billion in the second quarter of 2025.

A remarkable portion of these funds, around one-fifth, finds its way into real estate. But this is not passive investment. It is a gesture of return, of building a future homeland, of preparing for business, family, and retirement. It is long-term capital with long-term intent.

Vinhomes Green Paradise: A Hidden Gem Poised to Shine in Vietnam’s Real Estate Market

Regulatory reform is reinforcing this trust. The revised Land Law and Real Estate Business Law offer stronger protections and broader rights for Vietnamese citizens, including those living abroad. In a period where global currencies fluctuate and deposit rates decline, investors are increasingly confronting a hard truth: Holding cash is, in many cases, a slow erosion of value. As economist Can Van Luc notes, the VND has lost 3.4 percent of its value in two years, even as the USD depreciated. Real estate, therefore, is not merely an alternative, it has become one of the few asset classes capable of preserving and multiplying value in real terms.

Against this backdrop, regions entering new cycles of infrastructure development are drawing accelerated capital inflows. And among them, one name rises above all others: Can Gio.

For decades, Can Gio stood quietly at the edge of Ho Chi Minh City, an ecological jewel, admired but distant. Today, it has become the most powerful symbol of Vietnam’s coastal urban future. Massive infrastructure investment is reshaping its accessibility, and yet its real estate prices remain a fraction of central districts. Compared to Phu My Hung, Can Gio’s price base is nearly half; compared to Districts 1 and 3, just one-fifth. The gap is not a discount, it is untapped potential waiting to be realized.

The emergence of Vinhomes Green Paradise has pushed this transformation into global consciousness. As the first official participant in the New7Wonders “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign, the project is channeling the same catalytic energy once witnessed in iconic developments. Internationally, such recognitions do not merely elevate prestige, they accelerate valuation cycles, attract global capital, and redefine a city’s future skyline.

With its one-of-a-kind geographic formation and proximity to Can Gio’s million-year-old biosphere reserve, Vinhomes Green Paradise stands as a once-in-a-century asset. It embodies scarcity in its purest form, an asset class that cannot be replicated, reshaped, or reborn elsewhere.

And that is where the narrative converges. Asia’s rise, Vietnam’s momentum, Ho Chi Minh City’s evolution, and Can Gio’s emergence are not isolated stories. Together, they form a new investment epoch characterized by structural uplift, demographic acceleration, and a rapidly expanding middle class. It is the era of the Value Uprising, a phase in which the forces of economics, policy, population, and global capital align to propel real estate into a new price horizon.

In moments like this, markets rarely wait. History shows that investors who move early define the benchmark for everyone who follows. The question is no longer whether Asia will rise, or whether Vietnam will lead, or whether Can Gio will transform. The question, now, is whether investors will seize a moment that may not return for another generation.

Sources:

https://www.hines.com/asia-real-estate-opportunity-in-the-midst-of-uncertainty

https://knowledge.uli.org/-/media/files/emerging-trends/2026/emerging-trends-in-real-estate-2026-asia-pacific-report.pdf?rev=2036660434a44fa982b1ba913ffc2a2a&hash=87D5584C38EA219C1F1A50DC8E04FC7B

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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