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Leading Philippine Telecom Provider Selects Synchronoss to Deliver Personal Cloud Solutions to 54 Million Customers

Wed, 27 May 2026 20:21:00 +0700

Globe Telecom, Inc. set to offer Branded Personal Cloud Service Enabling Users to Back Up, Manage, and Optimize All Types of Digital Content

BRIDGEWATER, N.J., May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. ("Synchronoss") today announced that Globe Telecom, Inc. is set to offer Synchronoss Personal Cloud? to its more than 54 million customers. Globe operates one of the largest mobile, fixed-line, and broadband networks in the Philippines.

Using Synchronoss' white-label cloud technology, Globe will offer its customers a secure, easy-to-use personal cloud service to back up, synchronize, and manage their photos, videos, files, and other digital content. The service will also include Synchronoss Genius, a suite of AI-powered tools that enhance and optimize photos with filters, upscaling, and effects.

As part of the launch, Globe will deliver an entry-tier 50GB cloud offer at an accessible price point for a 90-day introductory trial, followed by premium plans ranging from 50GB to 2TB. These paid tiers will be available both as standalone add-ons and bundled offers for select customer segments.

"This partnership with Globe strengthens our growing presence in Asia and underscores the increasing global demand for operator-led personal cloud solutions," said Pat Doran, CEO of Synchronoss. "The addition of Genius AI gives Globe customers a robust way to secure their digital lives while also creating and enhancing their memories."

In addition to Genius AI, Synchronoss Personal Cloud also includes Space Saver, enabling Globe customers to free up space on their devices, without losing content. This helps users access more digital services without storage constraints, especially as mobile devices are instrumental in capturing and managing all types of content.

"Our customers rely on their mobile devices to manage every part of their daily lives," said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe. "By partnering with Synchronoss, we are giving them a secure, seamless way to store, manage, and elevate their personal content."

For more information on Synchronoss Personal Cloud, visit: https://www.synchronoss.com/cloud.***

Moment Factory and Mitsui Fudosan Enter Long-term Strategic Partnership to Deliver Innovative Fan Experiences

Wed, 27 May 2026 20:09:00 +0700

Partnership to Deliver a New Immersive Pok?mon Experience, Created in Collaboration with The Pok?mon Company International and Slated to Debut in Europe in Spring 2027

MONTREAL, TOKYO and BELLEVUE, Wash., May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Moment Factory and Mitsui Fudosan today announced a long-term strategic partnership to create large-scale, transformative experiences that set a new global standard for fan engagement. Stepping into the role of Executive Producers, the two companies will harness their combined strengths to foster human connection through brand storytelling and cutting-edge innovation.

Following Moment Factory and Mitsui Fudosan's successful work on Light Cycles at Kyoto Botanical Gardens for their 100th Anniversary Project, this announcement kicks off a new multi-year roadmap for the two companies' partnership. They are currently exploring a pipeline of innovative projects that will continue to blend technology, art, and iconic intellectual properties.

A New Pok?mon Experience

As part of this collaboration, Moment Factory and Mitsui Fudosan also announced a partnership with The Pok?mon Company International to develop a new immersive Pok?mon experience designed to tour in select locations and slated to debut in Europe in the spring of 2027. Using interactive technology and innovative storytelling, the collaboration will faithfully bring Pok?mon to life by bringing fans together in the real world and allowing them to step into the role of a Trainer in unique ways.

This collaboration will unite an international multidisciplinary team--including Mitsui Fudosan's expertise in creating large-scale destinations and real-world experiences, Moment Factory's pioneering immersive storytelling, and the iconic Pok?mon brand--to deliver an innovative experience for a diverse, worldwide audience.

More details about the project will be shared in the future.

"This partnership is more than a collaboration; it is a synergy of vision," said Dominic Audet, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Moment Factory. "Together with Mitsui Fudosan, we are looking to set a new global standard for how people interact with brands and environments. We are excited to leverage our creative DNA alongside Mitsui Fudosan's incredible reach to bring transformative projects to life."

"We are very honored to partner with Moment Factory," said Kazunori Yamashita, Executive Managing Officer of Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd. "Through this project, we aim to create new value through immersive experiences that connect people and communities. We also look forward to delivering excitement and inspiration to people around the world through our collaboration with Pok?mon, a globally beloved brand."

"People around the world are always eager to experience the world of Pok?mon in new and meaningful ways," said Andy Gose, Head of Media Production at The Pok?mon Company International. "We are excited to see the joy it will bring to Trainers and the passion and adventure that unites the community." ***

AACSB and Scholarly Societies Release Framework to Advance Research Impact in Business Education

Wed, 27 May 2026 20:07:00 +0700

Collaborative report provides guidance, resources, and practical pathways for business schools seeking to broaden the impact of their research

TAMPA, Fla., May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Business schools are under growing pressure to demonstrate that their research matters beyond academia, yet most lack a clear framework for doing so. Today, a coalition of 10 global academic organizations is offering a path forward through the release of A Framework for Research Impact: Insights, Pathways, and Calls to Action.

The report coincides with AACSB's inaugural Research Impact Conference, offered in partnership with the Academy of Management, and provides business schools with an actionable approach and resources to help broaden how they define, assess, and communicate research impact.

Developed by AACSB's Global Research Impact Task Force, the framework presents an expanded understanding of the research impact ecosystem, one that connects scholarship to business practice, public policy, teaching, and society.

Global Research Impact Task Force

* AACSB International

* Academy of International Business

* Academy of Management

* American Accounting Association

* American Marketing Association

* Asia Academy of Management

* Association for Information Systems

* European Accounting Association

* Journal of Operations Management

* Production and Operations Management Society

The framework reflects months of work by the task force and includes extensive input from across the business education ecosystem through global surveys, roundtables, focus groups, advisory discussions, and feedback on an exposure draft released in October 2025. It encourages institutions to adopt more intentional and mission-aligned approaches to supporting, evaluating, and communicating research impact.

"For too long, research impact has been defined too narrowly," said Lily Bi, president and chief executive officer of AACSB. "I am excited to share the work of the task force from over the last year. This framework helps institutions move from measuring outputs to understanding and a outcomes and impact."

The report, which is just phase one of an ongoing effort to drive systemwide change, emphasizes that impactful research often emerges through ongoing engagement among researchers, practitioners, policymakers, learners, and communities. It also highlights the importance of aligning institutional strategy, incentives, culture, and infrastructure to support multiple forms of research impact.

Among its recommendations, the framework encourages business schools to:

* Develop mission-aligned research impact strategies

* Strengthen connections among research, teaching, and external engagement

* Adopt more balanced approaches to evaluating research impact

* Recognize both quantitative and qualitative evidence of impact

* Create institutional environments that support diverse forms of impactful scholarship

To support business schools in implementation, the framework includes practical resources such as a Research Impact Assessment Tool and a Research Impact Ecosystem Guide. Together, these resources help schools evaluate current practices, identify opportunities for improvement, and strengthen institutional alignment around research impact.

The framework also aligns with AACSB's 2026 Global Standards for Business Education? and associated Pathways to Impact model, which call for a broader understanding of impact by business schools.

The report concludes with a series of strategic imperatives for stakeholder groups across the research ecosystem?including scholarly associations, publishers, journals, media, ranking bodies, and others?calling for a more collective and coordinated approach to advancing research impact and building on the momentum generated by the task force.

For more information and to access the full report, visit aacsb.edu/research-impact-framework.***

Three routes to Rome: the Via Francigena, the Via Romea Germanica and the Romea Strata in Lazio

Wed, 27 May 2026 19:24:00 +0700

Three major European pilgrimage itineraries, certified by the Council of Europe, converge in Lazio on their way to Rome. At the heart of the "Antichi Cammini d'Italia" project.

Three historic routes, three different European directions, one final destination: the Via Francigena, the Via Romea Germanica and the Romea Strata converge in Lazio before reaching Rome. They are three of the five itineraries at the heart of "Antichi Cammini d'Italia", created to enhance the country's major historic and religious walking routes and to position Italy among the world's leading walking destinations.

All three are certified Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe: the Via Francigena since 1994, the Via Romea Germanica since 2020 and the Romea Strata since 17 June 2025. Together they form a historical map of pilgrimage flows that, for centuries, have led travellers from northern, eastern and western Europe towards Rome.

Via Francigena

The Via Francigena is Italy's most internationally recognized walking route. It is based on the travel diary of Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury, who in 990 CE recorded the 79 stages of his return journey from Rome in a manuscript now preserved at the British Library.

The Italian section measures around 1,000 kilometers in 45 stages and, in Lazio, crosses the Tuscia of Viterbo. From Acquapendente, on the shores of Lake Bolsena, the route continues to Bolsena - where the Eucharistic miracle that inspired the feast of Corpus Christi took place in 1263 - Montefiascone with the Rocca dei Papi, Viterbo, a former papal seat with the medieval quarter of San Pellegrino, Vetralla, Sutri with its Roman amphitheater carved into the tufa rock, Campagnano and La Storta, before reaching St. Peter's Basilica.

Via Romea Germanica

The Via Romea Germanica reconstructs the journey described by Abbot Albert of Stade in the Annales Stadenses of 1236. Its Italian section measures approximately 1,050 kilometers from the Brenner Pass to Rome. In Lazio, it joins the Via Francigena at Montefiascone and, from there, shares the crossing of the Tuscia of Viterbo: Bolsena, Viterbo - with the Macchina di Santa Rosa, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity - Vetralla, Sutri and the Veio Regional Park, as far as La Storta.

A northern variant also touches Civita di Bagnoregio, the celebrated "dying city," suspended on a tufa spur in the heart of Tuscia.

Romea Strata

The Romea Strata is the most recent route to be certified as a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe: the recognition was awarded on 17 June 2025. It reconstructs the network of ancient roads that brought pilgrims to Rome from central-eastern and Baltic Europe: more than 4,700 kilometers across seven countries, with 245 stages and over fifty UNESCO sites.

The main Italian section runs for around 1,000 kilometers in 47 stages, touching Lazio locations such as Bolsena, Montefiascone, Viterbo and San Martino al Cimino before reaching Rome as the crowning point of the journey. Since 2024, the final stretch no longer rejoins the Via Francigena, thanks to meticulous remapping carried out by a network of volunteers, which has redefined the route, giving it a distinct identity and a new way into Rome.

A European map, a Lazio destination

Three directions, three historical traditions, one geographical convergence: Lazio. It is in this region that the three routes meet, share the same landscape of the Tuscia of Viterbo and approach the Eternal City together.

The Lazio stages form the true experiential heart of the "Antichi Cammini d'Italia" project: tufa villages, Romanesque basilicas, natural parks, papal fortresses and ancient walking routes still accessible on foot today. This geography of pilgrimage is made more recognizable and accessible in national and international markets through the project.

Project funded by the European Union ? Next Generation EU "Antichi Cammini di Italia", PNRR - Mission M1C3, Investment 4.3, Measure 274 - the Italian Ministry of Tourism is the subject operator, ENIT S.p.A. is the subject agent.***

BitMEX and COLLYBUS Announce Strategic Platform Partnership to Deliver Institutional-Grade Trading Technology

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:51:00 +0700

BitMEX to deploy COLLYBUS's execution platform to serve professional and active traders across its global client base

SINGAPORE and SYDNEY, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BitMEX, one of the world's leading digital asset trading platforms, and COLLYBUS, the regulated execution gateway for institutional digital asset and FX markets, today announced a strategic platform partnership under which COLLYBUS's execution platform will be deployed across BitMEX, providing professional and active traders with access to institutional-grade trading technology.

The partnership brings together BitMEX's deep liquidity and established global community with COLLYBUS's execution infrastructure, delivering a more powerful and seamless trading environment for BitMEX's professional and active clients, built on direct access to BitMEX liquidity.

What the Partnership Delivers

Through the collaboration, COLLYBUS will deploy its trading platform across BitMEX, providing professional and active traders with access to institutional-grade trading technology designed to meet the evolving and increasingly demanding requirements of today's digital asset markets. The platform is built to deliver the performance, reliability, and depth of functionality that professional traders require, supported directly by BitMEX's liquidity and market infrastructure.

The platform will be made available to BitMEX's clients through a phased rollout, with both companies working closely to ensure seamless integration and a best-in-class client experience.

"COLLYBUS is the infrastructure that our most active clients have been asking for. The combination of BitMEX's liquidity and global reach with COLLYBUS's execution platform creates a genuinely differentiated offering in the market and we are excited to bring it to our trading community." ***

Giro d'Italia: Conad White Jersey Still Held by Eulalio After Gruelling Stage

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:35:00 +0700

MILAN, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Portuguese rider Afonso Eulalio of Bahrain Victorious retained the Conad white jersey following Stage 15 of the Giro d'Italia, a 157-kilometre route from Voghera to Milan.

"It's always nice to retain the jersey, but today didn't feel that good. I thought it was going to be a fairly easy day, but it actually turned out to be super tough," the Portuguese rider told LaPresse after the stage.

It was a celebratory day in Milan, which also hosted the fifth stage of "Il Grande Giro Conad", the initiative organised by one of the Giro's main sponsors. The event provided an opportunity for the cooperative to engage with local communities during a nationwide sporting event.

"The Giro is not just a race -- it's also a celebration that brings people together; it's about community. For us, being part of the community and helping foster positive values through messages like these is fundamental. We also believe this edition has been one in which the young riders we sponsored have really taken centre stage," said Giuseppe Zuliani, Conad's Communications Director, speaking on the sidelines of the Stage 15 finish in central Milan.

"For us, sponsoring the Giro d'Italia is an honour. It is one of the country's most important and widely followed sporting events. It is not only a moment of celebration, but also a way to strengthen the relationship we have with local communities. Above all, it delivers relational value," added Rosanna Cattini, Vice President of Conad Centro Nord, referring to the return the Giro generates for the cooperative, including from an economic perspective.

"Many important messages can come from taking part in such a major event. There is certainly also the pride of being part of such a historic experience while, at the same time, one that has managed to innovate, like the Giro d'Italia. It is a source of pride for our more than 350 members and their 7,000 employees," concluded Maurizio Comi, Vice President of Conad Centro Nord.***

Huawei Code4Mzansi Highlights Developers Building for South Africa's Real Economy

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:19:00 +0700

Code4Mzansi highlights the growing strength of South Africa's developer ecosystem and the role of youth-led innovation in shaping the country's digital future

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 May 2026 - South Africa's emerging developers are building close to the ground, with many of the strongest solutions at the inaugural Huawei Code4Mzansi finals focused on systems people use every day: township retail, healthcare, energy, agriculture, payments and the creative economy.

The competition was held in partnership with the Department of Small Business Development. "The Code4Mzansi competition is not just a celebration of achievement, it is a launchpad for the future," said Minister Stella Ndabeni, whose department co-hosted the event and delivered the closing address.

The finals revealed a clear shift from building abstract digital products to practical tools that help small businesses trade better, communities access services more easily, and local industries solve problems faster.

Four finalist teams focused directly on the township economy, with solutions covering food safety verification for spaza shops, offline point-of-sale systems built for load-shedding, WhatsApp-native marketplaces for informal retailers, and community credit systems for SASSA grant recipients.

Others addressed AI-driven healthcare access, electricity theft detection, smart agriculture, financial infrastructure for the creator economy, and AI-generated African music.

Held at Huawei Office Park in Woodmead, the finals brought together more than 100 attendees, including government representatives, academic partners, industry leaders and media.

"The quality of the finalist solutions demonstrated the potential of local innovation to respond to real market needs," said Steven Chen, Cloud CEO of Huawei Technologies South Africa.

Academic partners included the University of Pretoria, the University of Johannesburg, the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Cape Town.

"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and technology is their greatest accelerator. The participants here today are future entrepreneurs who will drive South Africa's digital economy forward," said Professor Thokozani Shongwe, Vice Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Research and Internationalisation at the University of Johannesburg's Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.

Industry partner rain also attended. Leon Nortje, Principal and Senior Architect at rain, said the competition offered a strong view of the country's emerging technology pipeline.

"It is always good to see new projects and new teams working on solutions that are valuable and industry-related. We will be looking out for potential new employees," said Nortje.

The winners

The finalists competed for a prize pool of R800,000. MAAT by SIMVAK was named the overall grand winner and received the Business Value Award, taking home R300,000. The platform addresses food safety and regulatory compliance in South Africa's informal retail sector through AI agents, real-The winners

"The spaza network is the supply chain for most South African households," said SIMVAK founder Shingirayi Mandebvu.

HealthHive by FTCK received second prize in the Business Value Award category, taking home R200,000, for its AI telemedicine platform that matches patients with the right medical practitioners based on their symptoms.

Auraa received the Grand Innovation Award for its AI music engine built to generate authentic African sound. The platform has been associated with an album that has crossed one million streams.

The Future Star Award went to e-Khadi, a community credit and stokvel platform giving SASSA grant recipients access to essentials at their local spaza shops, supported by AI-assisted credit scoring and fraud detection.

The People's Choice Award, voted by the public on Huawei's social media channels, went to DevRift, a semi-finalist in the competition, who took home R100,000.

Minister Ndabeni delivered the closing address, positioning Code4Mzansi within the government's agenda for youth entrepreneurship, small business development and digital inclusion.

"Our task is to ensure that innovation does not remain a moment of applause, but becomes a pathway to enterprise creation, digital inclusion, and sustainable growth," she said.

"Thank you to Huawei for being a perfect partner on the journey that we are travelling, and of course, those that matter most, the developers who dared to compete," she said.

Code4Mzansi forms part of the global Huawei Cloud Developer Competition. In its inaugural edition, South Africa attracted more participants than any other country: 1,041 across 353 teams, including 176 enterprise teams, resulting in the highest enterprise participation rate among all competing markets. Twenty semi-finalists were selected before the top nine advanced to the final.

For the finalists, the work is just beginning. As Minister Ndabeni said, "Go home today proud. But tomorrow, wake up, build again."

Aboutime product recall alerts, and counterfeit detection for the spaza shop ecosystem.

"The spaza network is the supply chain for most South African households," said SIMVAK founder Shingirayi Mandebvu.

Auraa received the Grand Innovation Award for its AI music engine built to generate authentic African sound. The platform has been associated with an album that has crossed one million streams.

The People's Choice Award, voted by the public on Huawei's social media channels, went to DevRift, a semi-finalist in the competition, who took home R100,000.

Minister Ndabeni delivered the closing address, positioning Code4Mzansi within the government's agenda for youth entrepreneurship, small business development and digital inclusion.

"Our task is to ensure that innovation does not remain a moment of applause, but becomes a pathway to enterprise creation, digital inclusion, and sustainable growth," she said.

"Thank you to Huawei for being a perfect partner on the journey that we are travelling, and of course, those that matter most, the developers who dared to compete," she said.

For the finalists, the work is just beginning. As Minister Ndabeni said, "Go home today proud. But tomorrow, wake up, build again." ***

Hong Kong's first astronaut participates in Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:05:00 +0700

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 May 2026 - At 11.08pm on May 24, Dr Lai Ka-ying made history by becoming the first Hong Kong astronaut to blast off into space aboard the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceship. This momentous occasion also launched a new era for Hong Kong's development of innovation and technology (I&T) as well as the city's participation in national development under China's 15th Five-Year Plan.

Congratulating Dr Lai on her achievement, John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said that the HKSAR can "transform from a 'supporter' of the country's great aerospace endeavours into an 'executor' ".

"This not only demonstrates the HKSAR's capability in contributing to the country's development into an aerospace power, but also showcases how Hong Kong could better integrate into and serve the overall national development," Mr Lee said.

"This mission is of great significance, as it is not only the first manned spaceflight mission during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, but also the first time for a payload expert from the HKSAR to participate in it."

The Shenzhou-23 crew will conduct on-orbit rotation with the Shenzhou-21 crew. The crew, including Dr Lai, will stay in the space station and conduct multiple experiments and applications in various fields such as scientific applications.

The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, Professor Sun Dong, led a delegation to the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center to witness this historic moment. Members of the delegation included other government representatives, I&T experts, youths and students.

"I truly believe this is a great demonstration of Hong Kong integrating into and serving the overall national development through concrete actions, while contributing our strength in I&T," Professor Sun said.

" 'Science and technology is primary productive force, talent is primary resource, and innovation is primary driver of growth.' The HKSAR Government will continue to drive the development of I&T, accelerate the establishment of an international I&T centre, and make greater contributions to building our nation into a strong power in science, technology, and aerospace."

Commissioner for Innovation and Technology of the HKSAR Government, Mr Ivan Lee, said that the Government had been providing funding support for universities and research institutions in conducting aerospace technology-related projects through the Innovation and Technology Fund.

"In 2024, we launched a special call for funding applications, inviting universities to submit project proposals related to aerospace technology. Following a selection process, we supported six projects. Among them was the Multi‑Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory (MUSICO) developed by a team from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology," he said.

On the Tiangong Space Station, Dr Lai will conduct experiments including operating the MUSICO - the world's first lightweight, high-resolution synergistic observatory for carbon dioxide and methane emission point sources.

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Dr Lai is a Superintendent of the Hong Kong Police Force. In the recruitment exercise of China's fourth batch of preparatory astronauts launched in 2022, she was successfully selected as a payload expert and was deployed to the China Astronaut Research and Training Center for training.

Before embarking on the historic spaceflight, Dr Lai expressed hope that it would inspire more Hong Kong youths to devote themselves to the field of I&T, thereby contributing to the country's scientific and technological self-reliance and strength.***

Mahsuri Food Sdn. Bhd. Launches State-of-the-Art Production Facility in Bandar Enstek, Malaysia to Drive Global Halal Market Expansi

Wed, 27 May 2026 16:52:00 +0700

SEREMBAN, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 May 2026 - Mahsuri Food Sdn. Bhd. ("Mahsuri"), a local halal sauces and condiments manufacturer, officially launched its new factory in Bandar Enstek, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, on 22 May 2026. The opening marks a pivotal milestone in Mahsuri's strategic efforts to scale its production capabilities, enhance production efficiency, and support the brand's growth across domestic and regional markets.

The opening ceremony was officiated by YAB Dato' Seri Utama Haji Aminuddin bin Harun, Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan. The event was also attended by key dignitaries, including YB Teo Kok Seong, Chairman of the Industry and Non-Islamic Affairs Action Committee; Dato' Haji Najimuddin Sharif bin Sarimon, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Negeri Sembilan; Puan Surayu binti Susah, Executive Director, Manufacturing Development (Source), Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA); Dato' Husam bin Musa, Chairman of Tabung Haji Properties; Dato' Mohd Roslan bin Mahyuddin, Non-Executive Director of Mahsuri Food Sdn. Bhd. and Mr. Vincent Wong, President - APAC, Lee Kum Kee Sauce.

Spanning approximately 45,000 square metres, the new Mahsuri production facility is designed as a modern manufacturing hub dedicated to producing Mahsuri sauces, including soy sauce and oyster sauce. Equipped with state-of-the-art production lines and advanced processing capabilities, the plant supports fully automated manufacturing processes and consistent product quality-from preparation to bottling and packing-under stringent quality controls. This milestone reinforces Mahsuri's long-term commitment to expanding production capacity, strengthening quality standards, and ensuring that every product it produces continues to earn and maintain consumer trust.

Delivering on Consumer Trust and Quality with an Uncompromising Halal Integrity

YAB Dato' Seri Utama Haji Aminuddin bin Harun, Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan, said in his opening speech, "Mahsuri's new factory will not only support the domestic market, but will also robustly strengthen export capabilities, positioning Negeri Sembilan as a key hub within the global halal supply chain."

Dato' Mohd Roslan Mahyuddin, Non-Executive Director of Mahsuri Food Sdn. Bhd., said, "Mahsuri has long been a symbol of trust to consumers. With this new facility, we want to ensure that the products consistently meet the highest expectations from consumers in terms of taste, quality, food safety and strict halal compliance."

Revolutionary Technology to Automate Soy Sauce Production

One of the key features of Mahsuri's new facility is the introduction of a Rotary Koji Making Machine in soy sauce production. This advanced technology enables precise control of temperature, humidity and ventilation during koji production - an important step in the natural fermentation for soy sauce. By improving process precision and stability, this technology will significantly enhance production consistency, operational efficiency, and overall soy sauce quality, anchoring Mahsuri's position at the forefront of modern and competitive halal food manufacturing.

Mahsuri is dedicated to providing high quality Halal products to consumers, from the selection of raw materials, process control, hygiene and storage to the final product that reaches consumers. The new factory has successfully secured halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), as well as BPJPH Halal Certification from Indonesia. Both are world's globally recognised Halal standards, providing consumers the utmost confidence that Mahsuri products are manufactured in a strictly controlled and pristine environment.

Beyond production, the factory creates employment opportunities for the locals by developing skilled workers in specialised fields, including quality assurance, research and development, factory operations and technical support.

Looking ahead, this new factory will serve as a bedrock for Mahsuri's future expansion, while strengthening Malaysia's capability to export premium quality Halal sauce products to key international markets, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East and India.

The successful development of this factory was facilitated by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), an agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), which provided invaluable guidance, licensing facilitation and coordination throughout the establishment process.

The Negeri Sembilan State Government, through Invest Negeri Sembilan, acted as a one-stop centre in connecting Mahsuri with relevant state agencies. This seamless cooperation and state bodies ensure an orderly development process, driving the growth of the local food manufacturing sector and fueling the economic advancement of Negeri Sembilan.***

CBAK Energy Powers Southeast Asia's Electric Mobility with Innovative LFP Cylindrical Batteries

Wed, 27 May 2026 16:50:00 +0700

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) ("CBAK Energy", or the "Company"), a leading lithium-ion battery manufacturer and electric energy solution provider in China, highlights its scenario-driven Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) product lineup for Southeast Asia's rapidly growing electric mobility sector at the 22nd International Exhibition on Automobile, Motorcycle, Electric Vehicle and Supporting Industries (Autotech & Accessories 2026).

Engineered for Southeast Asia's demanding E2W/E3W market, the comprehensive portfolio features the company's flagship Full-Tab Large Cylindrical cells (including the 32140 and 40135 series), pioneering Sodium-Ion batteries (32140), and the specialized 26 series (26650/26700) built for high-rate, high-safety, and extreme temperature applications.

As the Southeast Asia accelerates its E2W/E3W transition to phase out ICE vehicles, local commercial fleets and swapping networks face severe operational extremes. The combination of 40?C+ urban climates, high-frequency usage, and heavy-load logistics drives an urgent need for high-performance batteries that can deliver robust power and exceptional thermal stability under relentless conditions.

Technological Advantages Driving Local LEVs Adoption

CBAK Energy emphasizes three key product pillars addressing regional mobility needs:
Long-Life and High-Reliability Performance: Designed for extended cycle life, CBAK Energy's 40135 FS2 cells deliver superior capacity retention over 2,500 cycles (0.5C/1C). In Southeast Asia's high-intensity ride-hailing and delivery sectors, this extraordinary longevity translates to a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. It drastically lowers the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), eliminates the frequent capacity degradation that plagues legacy batteries, and is expected to support higher residual value for second-life energy storage applications. At the exhibition, this significant TCO reduction and second-life potential drew strong interest from local fleet operators, leading to active partnership inquiries at the CBAK Energy booth.

Alice Yao, Overseas Sales Manager at CBAK Energy, discusses CBAK Energy's advanced battery modules and Full-Tab cell solutions with partners.

Full-Tab Technology and Thermal Safety: The company's large cylindrical cells, including 40135 and 32140 series, utilize a pioneering full-tab architecture that drastically minimizes internal resistance - achieving an industry-leading ≈1.3 mΩ in the new 32140 FS. This breakthrough unlocks stable high-rate cycling, seamlessly supporting 2C fast charging and 3C continuous discharging for robust, heavy--oad power delivery. Furthermore, by slashing charge-discharge temperature rise by 50% against the industry average, it is designed to help mitigate thermal runaway risks in 40?C+ swapping cabinets and helps reduce power throttling during frequent urban start-stops, ensuring safe, uninterrupted performance for commercial LEV fleets. The ability to address thermal safety concerns immediately caught the attention of local swapping network integrators, sparking intense procurement discussions on-site.
Kane Li, Overseas Sales Manager at CBAK Energy, engages in in-depth procurement discussions with local industry professionals.

Kane Li, Overseas Sales Manager at CBAK Energy, engages in in-depth procurement discussions with local industry professionals.

Class-Leading Energy Density: Peaking at an impressive 172 Wh/kg in the 40135 FS2, CBAK Energy's cells pack significantly more power into the vehicle's limited battery compartment. For Southeast Asian market, this high energy density directly translates to an extended riding range per swap. By maximizing the total energy capacity onboard, it drastically reduces the frequency of swapping station visits, allowing commercial riders to minimize downtime and maximize their daily operational revenue.

Following the momentum in Vietnam, CBAK Energy heads to Autoexpo Kenya in Nairobi (June 3-5, 2026), building on its established presence to further support the African electric mobility market with its latest integrated cylindrical solutions.***

68th GBM in India Strategizes APO Vision 2030 Implementation for Productivity Transformation and Enhanced Regional Cooperation

Wed, 27 May 2026 14:07:00 +0700

NEW DELHI, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) convened the 68th Session of the APO Governing Body (GBM), 20 - 22 May 2026 in New Delhi, hosted by the Government of India. Held during the APO's 65th anniversary year, the session marked an important historical milestone in advancing APO Vision 2030 and the Strategic Partnership Program (SPP) as the organization's new member-driven, result-oriented implementation framework.

The 68th GBM was attended by 63 Delegates from 19 APO member economies. Eight observers from Bhutan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, the Global Green Growth Institute, International Labour Organization, and United Nations Industrial Development Organization also attended, reflecting the APO's growing engagement with nonmembers and international organizations.

The meeting marked the transition of the APO Chairmanship from India to Indonesia, with Acting APO Director for Indonesia Prof. Anwar Sanusi assuming the role of APO Chair for 2026?27. I.R. Iran and Japan assumed the First and Second Vice Chairships, respectively. Acting APO Director for I.R. Iran Dr. Mostafa Goharifar and Acting APO Director for Japan Fumio Yamazaki performed the respective Vice Chair functions on behalf of their APO Directors.

The Inaugural Session was graced by Guest of Honor H.E. Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry of India, who highlighted productivity as a strategic driver of resilience, innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth amid rapid global economic and technological changes. He shared India's experiences in productivity-led development, including reforms in manufacturing, logistics, digital public infrastructure, MSME support, and Green Productivity.

Outgoing APO Chair 2025 - 26 and APO Director for India Amardeep Singh Bhatia highlighted the operational transition of APO Vision 2030 toward the SPP framework and the importance of institutional modernization, governance, and outcome-based regional cooperation. Director General of the National Productivity Council of India Neerja Sekhar underscored the role of productivity institutions in supporting transformation, resilience, digital technologies, Green Productivity, and measurable impact. Incoming APO Chair for 2026 - 27 Prof. Anwar Sanusi reaffirmed the APO's shared commitment to strengthening productivity, innovation, sustainability, and regional cooperation across Asia and the Pacific.

The 68th GBM featured in-depth deliberations on key organizational governance aspects related to the annual and financial reports and appointment of auditors; recommendations from the APO Vision 2030 Steering Committee; APO preliminary budget for the 2027 - 28 biennium; Secretariat's performance, management, and compliance; possible transition from IFRS to IPSAS; APO Secretary-General election procedures; nonmember country participation; and APO Awards Program. The meeting also featured a presentation on the APO's new flagship Genuine AI Action (GAIA) initiative promoting AI and its applications for productivity improvement in member economies.

The 68th GBM concluded with a renewed commitment to implementing APO Vision 2030 and strengthening the APO's role as a trusted platform for productivity-led, inclusive, sustainable, resilient development. APO Alternate Director for Lao PDR Vilakone Philomlack, in delivering the Vote of Thanks on behalf of delegates, stated that Lao PDR looked forward to welcoming Delegates to the 69th GBM in 2027.***

Elevate Your Strategy: Global Trading Competition Launch with Major Cash Prizes

Wed, 27 May 2026 13:51:00 +0700

EBC Financial Group initiates dual-track events across Asia and Africa, offering both risk-free simulated environments and high-stakes market showdowns to empower traders of all experience levels

LONDON, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EBC Financial Group (EBC), the World's Best Broker according to World Finance, has launched two multimarket trading competitions designed to support trader engagement and broaden participation across emerging trading communities in Asia and Africa. The promotion is provided by EBC Financial Group (SVG) LLC under the EBC Financial Group brand and includes two distinct events: the EBC Trading Masters Competition and the EBC Elite Demo Trading Competition.

Structured to accommodate participants across varying levels of trading experience, the dual-track initiatives reflect EBC's continued commitment to fostering a trader-first ecosystem grounded in transparency, accessibility, and continuous learning.

Through both competitions, participants will have the opportunity to benchmark their trading strategies within structured environments where rankings are determined by return rate rather than account size, reinforcing a performance-based framework where discipline and strategy remain central to competitive outcomes.

EBC Trading Masters Competition: Recognising Performance in Live Market Conditions

Targeted at experienced participants, the EBC Trading Masters Competition introduces a live trading environment where traders compete using real funds across Mongolia, Taiwan, and Thailand from 11 May to 5 June 2026.

The competition is open to PRO and STD account holders, with minimum equity requirements beginning from USD100 in Mongolia and USD200 in Taiwan and Thailand.

The competition will be conducted through eligible PRO and STD trading accounts, providing participants with direct exposure to live market conditions within a professionally structured environment. To encourage transparency and shared learning across the trading community, all participants will be required to publish trading signals throughout the competition period.

Across Taiwan and Thailand, prize pools will reach up to USD7,000 per session, with top-performing participants eligible to receive prizes of up to USD3,000. Rankings will be determined by return rate performance, reinforcing a competition structure where trading discipline and strategy take precedence over account balance size.

Participants may register multiple eligible accounts, with awards determined by their best-performing account, while structured risk controls and monitoring mechanisms are implemented throughout the competition period to maintain fairness and accountability.

EBC Elite Demo Trading Competition: Accessible Participation in a Risk-Free Environment

Designed for new and developing traders, the EBC Elite Demo Trading Competition offers participants the opportunity to engage with live market conditions through simulated accounts without real capital exposure.

The competition will run from 11 May to 22 May 2026 across Vietnam, Indonesia, Africa, and South Korea, with participants competing using newly created demo accounts funded with a simulated fixed starting equity of USD10,000.

Competition participants will begin with equal simulated starting capital of USD10,000, creating a level playing field where rankings are determined by return rate performance rather than account size. Across the regional sessions, participants will compete for prize pools of up to USD1,700, including a top prize of USD1,000 in the South Korea session. The competition framework is further supported by structured participation guidelines designed to uphold transparency, fairness, and disciplined trading engagement throughout the campaign period.

By creating a controlled environment focused on strategy development and performance benchmarking, the initiative aims to encourage informed market participation while helping traders build confidence and trading discipline.

"At EBC, we believe trader development is built on transparency, discipline, and access to structured opportunities that encourage continuous growth," said Lewis Tang, Brand Director at EBC Financial Group. "These competitions are designed not only to recognise trading performance, but also to foster greater engagement, knowledge sharing, and responsible participation across diverse trading communities."

Both competitions incorporate standardised ranking methodologies and operational safeguards, including return-rate-based evaluations and volume-based tiebreaker mechanisms, ensuring outcomes are determined by measurable trading performance.

The launch of the initiatives further reflects EBC's ongoing efforts to strengthen trader engagement across key international markets while supporting broader participation within the evolving global trading landscape.***

ARKAY Beverages Announces Global Expansion of Its Alcohol-Free Spirits Brand and Partner Opportunities Worldwide

Wed, 27 May 2026 13:36:00 +0700

Founded in 2011, the pioneering alcohol-free spirits brand is expanding its mission by inviting distributors, retailers, restaurants, hotels, hospitality groups, and affiliate partners to join the growing alcohol-free movement

MIAMI, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ARKAY Beverages, a premium alcohol-free spirits and beverage brand founded in 2011, today announced the global expansion of its alcohol-free spirits brand and new partnership opportunities for distributors, retailers, restaurants, hotels, hospitality groups, event operators, and affiliate partners worldwide.

The announcement comes as consumer demand for alcohol-free alternatives continues to grow across restaurants, hotels, retail, e-commerce, nightlife, entertainment venues, private events, and at-home consumption. ARKAY is expanding its global outreach to meet this demand and to support businesses seeking premium alcohol-free options for a new generation of consumers.

ARKAY offers consumers the taste, ritual, and sophistication of spirits without alcohol. The brand was created to provide a modern alternative for people who want to enjoy social moments without intoxication, hangovers, drunk driving, or loss of control.

"ARKAY is more than a beverage. It is a movement for responsible celebration," said Reynald Vito Grattagliano, Founder of ARKAY Beverages. "As demand for alcohol-free options continues to grow, we are expanding our global partner network and inviting distributors, retailers, restaurants, hotels, hospitality operators, and affiliates to join us in redefining celebration."

ARKAY's expansion is focused on making alcohol-free spirits more accessible to consumers and businesses around the world. The company is seeking new relationships with distribution partners, retail buyers, foodservice operators, hospitality groups, event organizers, online sellers, and affiliate marketers who want to participate in the growth of the alcohol-free beverage category.

For decades, alcohol has been positioned at the center of social life, from dinners and weddings to hotels, restaurants, nightlife, sporting events, and private gatherings. Today, more consumers are looking for choices that better align with wellness, responsibility, family, safety, religion, recovery, personal preference, and lifestyle values.

ARKAY gives consumers another option.

The brand's mission is to encourage responsible celebration, support healthier lifestyle choices, promote inclusion, and help create safer social experiences. With its premium alcohol-free spirits, ARKAY allows consumers to enjoy the flavor, elegance, and ritual of spirits while staying present, responsible, and in control.

"People should not have to choose between being social and being responsible," added Grattagliano. "ARKAY gives consumers the experience, the flavor, and the moment - without alcohol."

ARKAY's global partner initiative is designed for businesses and individuals who want to align with the future of alcohol-free drinking. Restaurants can offer guests more inclusive cocktail options. Hotels and resorts can serve premium non-alcoholic alternatives. Retailers can expand their beverage selections. Distributors can enter a growing category. Affiliates and ambassadors can promote a mission-driven brand with worldwide appeal.

ARKAY invites distributors, retailers, restaurants, hotels, lounges, event companies, e-commerce sellers, hospitality partners, affiliates, and ambassadors to join its global expansion and support safer, healthier, and more inclusive social experiences.

No alcohol. No hangovers. No drunk driving. No loss of control. Just the experience, the flavor, and the moment.***

CGTN: Mengutamakan rakyat: Prinsip utama dalam tata kelola Tiongkok

Wed, 27 May 2026 13:23:00 +0700

CGTN menerbitkan artikel yang mengulas bagaimana pendekatan tata kelola yang berpusat pada rakyat telah secara signifikan meningkatkan kualitas hidup masyarakat di Tiongkok, serta bagaimana pendekatan tersebut diharapkan terus menghadirkan perbaikan nyata bagi kehidupan rakyat di masa mendatang

BEIJING, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Menjelang Festival Musim Semi tahun ini, Presiden Tiongkok Xi Jinping mengunjungi sebuah kantin komunitas di kompleks apartemen untuk lansia guna meninjau upaya pemerintah daerah dalam meningkatkan layanan publik yang memudahkan kehidupan masyarakat serta layanan perawatan lansia. Beliau juga berbincang hangat dengan beberapa kurir yang tengah beristirahat di kantin tersebut, sembari menanyakan pekerjaan dan kehidupan mereka sehari-hari.

Presiden Xi menegaskan bahwa komite Partai dan pemerintah di semua tingkatan harus memerhatikan kesejahteraan mereka serta menyediakan layanan yang lebih baik untuk mendukung kehidupan, pekerjaan, dan pendidikan mereka.

Tahun 2026 menandai ulang tahun ke-105 berdirinya Partai Komunis Tiongkok (PKT). Presiden Xi pernah menyatakan bahwa rakyat mewakili bangsa, dan bangsa terdiri atas rakyat. Beliau juga menyatakan bahwa keberlangsungan sebuah partai bergantung pada dukungan rakyat, seraya menambahkan bahwa dengan kepercayaan dan dukungan rakyat, PKT akan mampu menghadapi segala rintangan.

Sejak Kongres Nasional PKT ke-18 pada tahun 2012, hampir 100 juta penduduk berhasil keluar dari kemiskinan, Tiongkok telah menuntaskan pembangunan masyarakat yang cukup makmur dalam segala aspek. Selain itu, Tiongkok telah membangun sistem terbesar di dunia untuk pendidikan, jaminan sosial, perawatan kesehatan, dan dukungan perumahan perkotaan.

Akses ke pendidikan di semua jenjang kini telah mencapai atau melampaui rata-rata untuk negara-negara berpendapatan menengah dan tinggi. Cakupan asuransi kesehatan dasar tetap berada di atas 95 persen, angka harapan hidup naik menjadi lebih dari 79 tahun, dan kelompok berpendapatan menengah kini telah mencapai lebih dari 400 juta orang.

Penekanan pada prinsip yang mengutamakan rakyat semakin nyata ketika Tiongkok memasuki tahun pertama pelaksanaan Rencana Lima Tahun ke-15 (2026 - 2030). Lebih dari sepertiga rencana pembangunan ekonomi dan sosial nasional berkaitan dengan mata pencaharian rakyat, yang mencakup ketenagakerjaan, pendapatan, pendidikan, perawatan kesehatan, perawatan lansia, dan pengasuhan anak. Berbagai isu tersebut menjadi perhatian terbesar masyarakat sekaligus paling mendesak untuk ditangani.

Terkait kurir makanan, pengemudi layanan transportasi online, dan pekerja e-commerce, yang dikenal sebagai "bentuk-bentuk pekerjaan baru" dan menggambarkan bagian pasar tenaga kerja Tiongkok yang berkembang pesat seiring pertumbuhan internet dan ekonomi digital, rencana tersebut menekankan upaya untuk mendorong perkembangan yang sehat bagi pekerjaan fleksibel dan bentuk-bentuk pekerjaan baru. Rencana tersebut juga mendukung para pekerja di sektor tersebut agar dapat mengikuti program asuransi ketenagakerjaan, serta menyempurnakan kebijakan untuk memindahkan akun jaminan sosial.

Zhang Linshan, peneliti di Akademi Riset Makroekonomi di bawah Komisi Pembangunan dan Reformasi Nasional Tiongkok, mengatakan bahwa Rencana Lima Tahun ke-15 mengirimkan sinyal kuat bahwa Tiongkok tetap berkomitmen pada pendekatan yang berpusat pada rakyat. Beliau menambahkan, pembangunan berkualitas tinggi difokuskan pada peningkatan kualitas hidup masyarakat serta memastikan hasil pembangunan dapat dinikmati secara lebih luas dan lebih merata oleh seluruh rakyat.

Zhang mengatakan bahwa hal ini juga mencerminkan pergeseran arah pembangunan Tiongkok, dari mengejar pertumbuhan semata menuju pembangunan yang mengutamakan kualitas pertumbuhan.

Zhang menambahkan bahwa tujuannya adalah memastikan pertumbuhan ekonomi dan peningkatan kesejahteraan rakyat berjalan beriringan sehingga menciptakan siklus positif serta membuat masyarakat merasa lebih aman dan lebih yakin dengan masa depan.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-05-24/Putting-people-first-A-guiding-principle-in-China-s-governance-1NpJlbWbCUM/p.html

40 Years Strong: ASEAN Cableship Unveils New Logo

Wed, 27 May 2026 13:06:00 +0700

Pitch Notes:

ASEAN Cableship Pte Ltd (ACPL) celebrated its 40th anniversary with the unveiling of a refreshed corporate logo.

A new chapter in the company's evolution as a trusted leader in global submarine cable connectivity for 40 years.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 May 2026 - ASEAN Cableship Pte Ltd (ACPL) proudly marks its 40th anniversary this year under the theme "40 Years Leading Global Connectivity -- Heritage, People, Fleet and Future." For four decades, ACPL has been at the forefront of global connectivity, delivering submarine cable installation, repair and maintenance, as well as nearshore and onshore cable projects across Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean with reliability and resilience.

To commemorate this milestone, ACPL hosted a gala dinner on 25th of May, where it unveiled its new corporate logo, symbolising the company's evolution and forward-looking vision. The refreshed logo reflects ACPL's continued commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and its role in enabling the future of global digital connectivity.

ACPL's operational strength is anchored by its fleet of purpose-built cable vessels and supporting assets. Today, the company operates three cable ships and one barge -- ASEAN Restorer, ASEAN Explorer, ASEAN Protector, and its latest addition, ASEAN Challenger, which was inaugurated in 2024. With the addition of this vessel, ACPL is better positioned to deliver timely and reliable cable operations, supporting the rapidly growing demand for submarine cable infrastructure driven by the continued expansion of global data traffic, cloud services, and digital connectivity.

"Our 40th anniversary is not only a celebration of our past, but a commitment to our future," said Mr. Yue Meng Fai, Chief Executive Officer of ASEAN Cableship Pte Ltd. "The launch of our new corporate logo reflects our evolution as a company -- one that is rooted in a strong heritage while continuously advancing towards the future. We will continue to safeguard our heritage of trusted operations, empower our people as a united team with resolute commitment to quality, enhance our fleet to remain reliable and innovative, and shape our future by leading the transformation of global connectivity in a responsible and sustainable way."

The anniversary event brought together industry partners, stakeholders and clients to commemorate ACPL's achievements and to mark the next chapter of its journey. Throughout the year, ACPL will commemorate this milestone through various initiatives that honour its legacy while reinforcing its dedication to responsible operations and long-term value creation.

With 40 years of trusted legacy, ACPL remains committed to connecting the world -- resolutely, reliably and responsibly.

ASEAN Cableship Pte Ltd (ACPL)
Established in 1986, ASEAN Cableship Private Limited (ACPL) is a leading provider of submarine cable installation, repair, and maintenance services in the Asia Pacific region. Headquartered in Singapore, ACPL was formed by a consortium of six prominent telecommunications entities from the original ASEAN member countries, reflecting strong regional cooperation across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. ACPL has built a strong reputation as a pioneer in submarine cable repair and maintenance, supporting critical telecommunications infrastructure under the Southeast Asia and Indian Ocean Cable Maintenance Agreement (SEAIOCMA), spanning from Djibouti to Guam and from Taiwan to Australia.

In addition to its repair and maintenance capabilities, ACPL is also an established submarine cable installer and integrator. Its services include main lay submarine cable installation and maintenance, shore-end landing and beach works, project management, offshore and diving support services, Universal Joint consumable supplies and jointing equipment, as well as engineering consultancy, site surveys, and desktop studies. ACPL remains committed to advancing submarine cable system installation and repair, delivering professional and reliable services to meet evolving customer needs and support a sustainable, connected future.

For more information, please visit: https://www.aseancableship.com.

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

Alibaba Cloud Unveils Advanced Agentic AI Ecosystem for Global Customers

Wed, 27 May 2026 12:51:00 +0700

Model, AI infrastructure updates, AI-native platform and agent products released

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 May 2026 - Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, today unveiled a suite of advanced model, infrastructure upgrades, AI-native platform and AI agent products for its global customers. These advancements underscore Alibaba Cloud's unwavering commitment to driving AI innovation and empowering users worldwide for the agentic era.

The announcements were made at Alibaba Cloud's first international Qwen Conference, held in Singapore, where the company also launched a new initiative with local ecosystem partners to equip over 1,000 local SMEs and students with practical skills in Generative AI and agentic AI.

"The agentic era represents a paradigm shift in how we interact with technology," said Dr. Feifei Li, Chief Technology Officer and President of International Business of Alibaba Cloud. "Our commitment to developing a comprehensive, full-stack AI ecosystem means we are not just offering powerful models, but also the AI-native tools and agentic cloud infrastructure that enable our international customers to seamlessly integrate AI into every facet of their operations."

Qwen3.7-Max -- The robust foundation for AI agents

Alibaba's latest large language model, Qwen3.7-Max, is now available on Model Studio, Alibaba's AI development platform, in Singapore region. According to Artificial Analysis's latest global large language model Intelligence Index, Qwen3.7-Max ranked fifth globally and first among Chinese models.

With a score of 56.6 points, it outperformed other Chinese models such as Kimi-K2.6, DeepSeek-v4-Pro-Max, and GLM5.1, while demonstrating performance competitive with leading international models such as GPT, Claude, and Gemini.

Empowering agents with agentic cloud

To enable AI agents to interact more seamlessly with cloud resources, Alibaba Cloud has launched a new Skills portal that converts common cloud capabilities across more than 60 cloud products into Skill-based and MCP-compatible formats.

This allows AI agents to invoke cloud resources as naturally as calling functions. Alibaba Cloud's core products, including databases, big data, operations and maintenance (O&M), and security, have developed dedicated product-level agents to help manage complex cloud environments more efficiently.

Alibaba Cloud is also upgrading its AI infrastructure to better support agent runtime environments, with enhancements such as lightweight execution sandboxes, cross-task memory, seamless data circulation, and intelligent O&M across the full technology stack.

AI-native cloud with models and tools

To simplify access to and deployment of AI models, Alibaba Cloud unveiled Qwen Cloud, a new AI-native cloud platform designed to provide a seamless model service experience for both businesses and AI agents. The platform enables developers, enterprises, and prosumers to build AI-powered applications and agents with greater ease and efficiency.

Qwen Cloud features a three-entry design, with "Skills" for agents and a Command Line Interface (CLI) for workflow integration serving as core agent-friendly access points, alongside a user-friendly website for human users. The platform brings together a comprehensive ecosystem of leading models, including Alibaba's proprietary Qwen models, open-source models, and third-party offerings for text, vision, audio, image, video, and embedding tasks.

Singapore Initiative - equipping SMEs and students with practical skills in generative and agentic AI

Reinforcing its commitment to global AI adoption, Alibaba Cloud, in collaboration with the Tech Talent Assembly, an affiliated association under the National Trade Union Congress (NTUC), and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC), has launched a new initiative to equip over 1,000 local SMEs and students in Singapore with practical skills in Generative and Agentic AI.

Announced at the Qwen Conference, this initiative provides access to Alibaba Cloud's advanced GenAI and agentic AI solutions, including Qwen and Wan, alongside hands-on training to foster real-world AI application understanding.

"This reflects a growing effort by partners to work with the Labour Movement to better support workers, including youths and PMEs, with the skills, guidance and confidence to take on opportunities in the AI economy. Through NTUC's AI-Ready SG initiative, we will continue working closely with our partners to pool resources and strengthen impact on the ground, so that workers receive tailored guidance and support every step of the way," said Desmond Tan Kok Ming, Senior Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office of Singapore and the Deputy Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress.

Agent products updates for Enterprise Deployment

At the Qwen Conference, Alibaba Cloud debuted the JVS Agent Suite, a set of enterprise-grade agent toolkits for enterprises, developers and individuals to easily build and run exclusive AI agents. Built on the OpenClaw framework with robust cloud-native security, JVS Claw Teams supports 7x24 cloud operation, centralised distribution of an organisation's proprietary Skills, and integrated security management.

Another new product of JVS Agent Suite is JVS Mobile, an enterprise-grade mobile intelligent automation platform. Powered by the Qwen model and native OpenClaw, it enables the creation of AI agents capable of autonomous thinking, efficient multi-agent collaboration, and complex task execution across different applications.

In addition, Alibaba Cloud announced that it has joined the PyTorch Foundation, a community-driven hub for open-source AI under the Linux Foundation, as a Platinum member. Through this, Alibaba Cloud aims to contribute to the development of next-generation AI infrastructure and support the broader open-source AI ecosystem.

At the summit, Alibaba Cloud also launched a global hackathon for developers and startups to build production-grade AI agents with Alibaba's models on Qwen Cloud. Another short film competition, co-launched with leading design and video editing platform Picsart, will invite creators to produce original AI-generated films using Alibaba's advanced video generation model HappyHorse.***

AGC Biologics to Manufacture Teikoku Seiyaku's rhMMP-7 Drug Substance

Wed, 27 May 2026 12:50:00 +0700

AGC Biologics to provide process development and GMP manufacturing for a novel therapy, leveraging its global microbial network across Germany and Japan.

HEIDELBERG, Germany and CHIBA, Japan, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AGC Biologics, your friendly CDMO expert, was selected by Teikoku Seiyaku Co., Ltd., a leader in transdermal drug delivery, to provide microbial contract development and manufacturing services for KTP-001, a recombinant human matrix metalloproteinase-7 (rhMMP-7), to treat lumbar disc herniation.

"Partnering with AGC Biologics was a clear choice. Their team has a proven track record in microbial manufacturing, and their global presence gives us the flexibility and security we need," said Dr. Hiroyuki Kubo, Director and Executive Officer at Teikoku Seiyaku. "We value their collaborative spirit and working together will be instrumental in bringing this important new therapy to patients."

Development and GMP manufacturing for clinical trials

Under the agreement, AGC Biologics will leverage its global network, with initial cell bank creation activities taking place at its Microbial Center of Excellence in Heidelberg, Germany. The project will then transition to the AGC Biologics' facility in Chiba, Japan, for process development and GMP manufacturing to support clinical trials.

"Our role here in Heidelberg is to be a reliable and collaborative partner from the very beginning, applying our microbial development experience to build a robust foundation for this therapy," said Dieter Kramer, General Manager of the AGC Biologics Heidelberg site. "We have a 40-year-long tradition of helping projects advance and are well accustomed to partnering with other sites in our network to provide a steady journey towards GMP manufacturing."

"We are delighted to support the Teikoku Seiyaku team on such an innovative project. It's a privilege to support their vision for a therapy that could offer a new, less invasive option for patients," said Susumu Zen-In, General Manager of the AGC Biologics Chiba site.

A CDMO with a stable, global network

This partnership highlights AGC Biologics' unique position as the only CDMO offering microbial manufacturing on three continents-- Asia (Chiba, Japan), North America (Seattle, USA), and Europe (Heidelberg, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark). This global network provides supply chain security and flexibility, allowing drug developers to de-risk their journey from clinical to commercial stages in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

For a drug developer, why is a global manufacturing network important for supply chain security?

A global network provides crucial flexibility and de-risks the supply chain by offering geopolitical stability and redundancy of supply. It allows for efficient tech transfer between sites with harmonized quality systems, offers multi-continent production options to meet regional market demands, and ensures business continuity. With facilities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, AGC Biologics helps partners build a resilient manufacturing strategy that is not dependent on a single site or region.

How is AGC Biologics investing to meet future microbial demand?

AGC Biologics is committed to strategic growth that aligns with market needs. The company has brought a new microbial line online in the U.S. to support reshoring initiatives and is offering innovative capacity reservation models at its Heidelberg site in 10,000 L scale to provide long-term security for late-phase and commercial products. This is in addition to the extensive, established capabilities at its Copenhagen and Chiba sites, ensuring partners have access to robust, global capacity now and in the future.***

Google Cloud Security Menggunakan Platform Instruqt untuk Melatih Lebih dari 150 Praktisi tentang AI Agentik pada Google Next 2026

Tue, 26 May 2026 07:05:00 +0700

Platform praktis Instruqt menyediakan lingkungan Vertex AI tersendiri bagi setiap peserta, memperagakan model operasional baru untuk mengatasi kesenjangan adopsi AI pada skala konferensi

AMSTERDAM, May 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Instruqt, platform pengalaman produk praktis yang digunakan MongoDB, Elastic, Google, dan SUSE, hari ini mengumumkan bahwa Google Cloud Security menggunakan Instruqt untuk melatih lebih dari 150 praktisi tentang AI Agentik pada Google Next 2026. Sesi yang diberi label Agentic SOC Experience ini menjadi salah satu sesi pelatihan praktis AI Agentik terbesar yang dihadirkan dalam konferensi industri utama tahun ini.

Menggunakan Instruqt, peserta membuat lingkungan Google Cloud Vertex AI khusus, merancang agen mereka sendiri dari awal, serta menjelajahi kapabilitas agentik Google dalam lingkungan sandbox yang terisolasi, alih-alih hanya menonton demo berbasis slide.

Menurut Keith Manville, Pre-Sales Engineer di tim Google Cloud Security yang berhadapan langsung dengan pelanggan dan memimpin sesi tersebut, "Instruqt sangat unggul dari sisi AI karena memungkinkan pihaknya menyiapkan lingkungan Vertex yang khusus untuk setiap peserta. Para peserta memperoleh pemahaman tentang apa itu agen, apa saja fitur-fitur dasar yang dibangun ke dalam sebuah agen, serta bagaimana cara menggunakannya. Setiap orang belajar dengan caranya masing-masing. Karena teknologinya kompleks, dan jika Anda belum pernah melihatnya sebelumnya, Anda benar-benar tidak tahu di bagian mana Anda harus mengklik atau apa yang perlu dilakukan. Instruqt membantu kami dalam memandu pengguna secara mulus melalui proses belajar cara mengoperasikan produk tersebut."

Menutup kesenjangan adopsi AI

Lokakarya tersebut mencerminkan perubahan operasional yang lebih luas di seluruh industri perangkat lunak. AI menghadirkan berbagai fitur baru lebih cepat daripada kemampuan pelanggan untuk mengadopsinya, dan kesenjangan antara produk yang dirilis dan produk yang diadopsi menjadi titik di mana peluang penjualan, retensi pelanggan, dan pendapatan menjadi hilang. Menurut laporan State of Developer Adoption 2026 dari SlashData, 92% praktisi menghadapi setidaknya satu tantangan adopsi yang signifikan, dengan kompleksitas teknologi (26%), ketidaksinkronan tim (27%), dan konten yang sudah usang (25%) sebagai penyebab utama.

"Perusahaan yang akan memenangkan era AI bukan hanya yang meluncurkan produk-produk terbaik. Akan tetapi, merekalah yang membantu pelanggan benar-benar menggunakan produk tersebut," ujar Tyler Crumpler, VP Marketing di Instruqt. "Langkah yang dilakukan Google Cloud Security pada Google Next menjadi model bagi setiap perusahaan berbasis AI untuk melakukan hal yang sama. Tempatkan pelanggan dalam lingkungan yang sebenarnya, dengan alat yang sebenarnya, dan biarkan mereka membangun sesuatu yang dapat mereka hadirkan kembali ke tempat kerja. Dengan cara itulah adopsi, keterampilan, dan peluang penjualan bertumbuh secara kumulatif." ***

Rainforest Tea Culture from Wuzhishan, China, Debuts in Rome

Tue, 26 May 2026 06:43:00 +0700

ROME, ITALY - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 May 2026 - The Rainforest Children's Choir and Rainforest Large-Leaf Tea from Wuzhishan, Hainan, China, took centre stage at the International Tea Day event held at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome on May 21, becoming the occasion's most sought-after presence.

The children performed an original song "Lishan Tea Song" and a rendition of the beloved Italian classic "O Sole Mio," drawing a captivated crowd. Among the audience were Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the FAO, and Zhang Lubiao, China's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Agencies in Rome.

"It is the first time a Chinese delegation has performed in this banquet hall. I feel very proud," Zhang said at the event. "The Wuzhishan delegation will leave an important mark in the history of the FAO."

The day marked the seventh International Tea Day, and the FAO hosted a tea tasting gathering at its Rome headquarters. Countries including China, Indonesia, Canada, Kenya, Azerbaijan, Russia, Sri Lanka, and T?rkiye showcased their signature teas and cultural traditions, sharing tea as a bridge of friendship.

The Wuzhishan delegation set up a display area featuring Rainforest Large-Leaf Tea and ethnic cultural products. Tea masters brewed tea for international guests, and the large-leaf black tea, known for its "amber liquor and honey aroma," was widely appreciated.

Hainan Large-Leaf Tea is a distinct species of the Camellia genus that evolved independently on Hainan Island and possesses rich genetic diversity. The research findings, published on the journal Agrobiodiversity on May 17, 2024, further enhance the tea's unique appeal.

The delegation also held business talks with Italian companies, exploring tea product exports and cross-border e-commerce cooperation, and mapping out pathways for Hainan's tea industry to enter the international market.

The International Tea Day is a UN observance initiated by China, aimed at promoting global tea culture exchange and the sustainable development of the tea industry. Through song and tea, the Wuzhishan delegation showcased the unique cultural charm of the Hainan Free Trade Port, injecting fresh energy into China-Italy cultural exchanges.

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

Antichi Cammini d'Italia: an integrated initiative to enhance five major pilgrimage routes through Lazio

Tue, 26 May 2026 06:40:00 +0700

Antichi Cammini d'Italia - Via Francigena

Five historic and religious walking routes become a unified tourism and cultural system. The pillars of the project: easing pressure on traditional tourist circuits, extending the season, slow tourism, sustainability and technological innovation.

"Antichi Cammini d'Italia" is taking shape: an integrated initiative to enhance five major historic and religious pilgrimage routes that cross Italy and converge in Lazio and Rome -- the Via Francigena, the Way of Saint Francis, the Way of Saint Benedict, the Romea Strata and the Via Romea Germanica. The project aims to position Italy among the world's leading walking destinations and to strengthen the appeal of a widespread heritage that is still not fully integrated into mainstream tourism flows.

Five routes, one destination: Lazio and Rome

Three of the five routes are certified Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe: the Via Francigena since 1994, the Via Romea Germanica since 2020 and the Romea Strata since 17 June 2025. The Way of Saint Francis and the Way of Saint Benedict lead to places that are central to Franciscan and Benedictine spirituality, from the Holy Valley of Rieti to Subiaco and Montecassino. All five routes share a common point of convergence in Lazio, which forms the experiential heart of the project: from the Tuscia of Viterbo to the Holy Valley of Rieti, from the Aniene Valley to the Eternal City.

Slow tourism, sustainability and more balanced flows

"Antichi Cammini d'Italia" responds to a profound change in travel habits: the growing demand for slow, authentic and sustainable experiences. The itineraries promoted by the project offer alternatives to traditional destinations, helping to ease pressure on the most crowded tourist circuits and to extend visitor flows across a broader calendar and into lesser-known areas.

This tourism offer appeals to an increasingly diverse audience: pilgrims, walkers, cultural travellers, outdoor and wellness enthusiasts, families and people seeking a more direct relationship with local territories and their communities.

Technological innovation: smart signage

One of the project's most distinctive features is an integrated smart signage system deployed along the five itineraries. Sixty devices provide travellers with free Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy beacon technology connected to the Italia.it app.

When visitors enter the range of a beacon, they receive a push notification inviting them to discover the stage they are on and the surrounding tourism offer: technical information on the route, geolocated maps, Point of Interest sheets and multimedia content dedicated to places of historical, artistic, religious and scenic value.

It is a model that brings together the physical experience of walking and the digital dimension, offering travellers accessible tools for orientation and deeper interpretation in real time.

Alongside this, an extensive mapping process of Points of Interest has led to the creation of more than 1,000 information sheets dedicated to churches, monuments, natural areas, squares, fountains and other identity-defining places in the territories crossed by the routes. More than 40% of the sites highlighted are outstanding assets that are still little represented in international tourism circuits: a heritage the project helps bring to light, promoting a more authentic and sustainable way of experiencing the territory. Italia.it is the system's central digital hub, where all content comes together and becomes accessible to travellers.

Bus tours: seven itineraries across Lazio

The project also includes a program of seven bus itineraries dedicated to the Lazio sections of the five routes. Designed to offer the public an authentic experience even within a single day, they make it possible to engage with the spirit of the routes without undertaking the full walk.

Five itineraries retrace the Lazio stages of the Via Francigena, the Way of Saint Francis, the Way of Saint Benedict, the Romea Strata and the Via Romea Germanica. Two additional itineraries are dedicated to Rome: "Roma Futura," a journey through twentieth-century and contemporary architecture, from Zaha Hadid to Renzo Piano, from the Foro Italico to EUR and Fuksas's Nuvola; and "Churches of the Third Millennium," exploring the capital's new sacred architecture and enriching the Roman dimension of the project.

The tours, free of charge upon registration on Italia.it, include multisensory experiences on board, storytelling moments with performers, tastings of typical products from the territories crossed and a gift for each participant. The initiative is open to everyone -- not only tourism professionals -- further broadening the audience reached by the project.

International promotion, press tours and creators

The project's promotion is being developed in Italy and abroad, with the aim of strengthening Italy's positioning as a leading destination for slow, cultural and sustainable tourism. Target markets include Italy, Argentina and Latin America, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Spain, the United States and Switzerland: a map that reflects both the geography of Europe's historic routes and the spiritual and cultural appeal of Italy's walking itineraries beyond Europe.

Integrated communication activities include press tours for Italian and international journalists, enabling media professionals to experience first-hand the Lazio stages of the routes and the slow journey through the Tuscia of Viterbo, the Holy Valley of Rieti and the places of Franciscan and Benedictine spirituality.

In parallel, the project includes an influencer and content creator campaign in the target countries, supported by extensive multichannel and multi-format digital and print production. Through videos, social content, branded content and native formats designed for digital audiences, the campaign tells the story of the five ancient walking routes of Italy and invites people to discover them.

Project funded by the European Union - Next Generation EU ?Antichi Cammini d'Italia?, PNRR - Mission M1C3 Investment 4.3 Measure 274 - the ITALIAN MINISTRY OF TOURISM is the subject operator, ENIT S.p.A. is the subject agent.***