Asia Insider

Why Taiwan became the defining issue in the Trump-Xi talks

Asia Insider — Sat, 16 May 2026 08:26:02 +0000

Aly Song | Reuters

BEIJING — U.S. President Donald Trump has kept up an uneasy silence about Taiwan following his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping this week, despite the U.S.’ announcement in December of a record $11 billion in arms sales to the island against Beijing’s wishes.

Trump had said the Taiwan arms sales would be on the agenda for his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping which ended on Friday.

But after the two leaders’ first day of meetings on Thursday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio told NBC News the topic “did not feature primarily in today’s discussion.”

The initial White House readout also did not mention Taiwan – home to manufacturers of some of the world’s most advanced semiconductors – although Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC he expected Trump would say more on Taiwan in coming days.

The silence persisted — more than 24 hours after China published its official readout with a stark warning from Xi that mishandling Taiwan would put the U.S.-China relationship in “great jeopardy.”

“This is a pretty direct and strong comment by President Xi,” Wendy Cutler, former acting deputy U.S. trade representative, said Friday on CNBC’s “The China Connection.”

“The way I interpret it too is that he really tied economic stability to developments with respect to Taiwan,” she said.

Beijing’s readout of the closing Trump-Xi meeting Friday morning emphasized the benefits of cooperation and did not mention Taiwan.

‘Cool it’

Trump said that China and Taiwan “ought to both cool it“.

In an interview with Fox News that aired Friday afternoon, Trump insisted that long-standing U.S. policy on Taiwan remains unchanged after his two days of meetings with Xi.

The people of Taiwan should feel “neutral” about his visit, Trump said.

But he also appeared to express some opposition to the prospect of the U.S. leaping to Taiwan’s defense if it is attacked, while framing Taipei’s decision to pursue independence from China as the deciding factor.

“I will say this: I’m not looking to have somebody go independent, and you know, we’re supposed to travel 9,500 miles to fight a war,” Trump said. “I’m not looking for that. I want them to cool down, I want China to cool down.”

He added that he has yet to approve another potential large sale of weapons to Taiwan: “I may do it, I may not do it.”

“We’re not looking to have somebody say ‘Let’s go independent because the United States is backing us,'” Trump said.

“Taiwan would be very smart to cool it a little bit. China would be very smart to cool it a little bit. They ought to both cool it,” he said.

Earlier, Trump said he refused to directly answer Xi when asked if the U.S. would defend Taiwan against a Chinese attack.

Trump also said Taiwan was not part of the discussion when he met with Xi in South Korea last fall.

Trump’s decision not to answer is in line with the U.S.′ long-standing “One China” policy, which leaves the status of Taiwan, an island that Beijing claims as its own, undefined.

The approach of “strategic ambiguity” leaves open whether Washington would come to Taipei’s aid in the event of a Chinese attack.

A statue of a soldier with its gun pointed towards Xiamen on the Chinese mainland across the Taiwan Strait on Lieyu Island in Kinmen, Taiwan.

Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

As for arms sales, the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act adds that the U.S. “will make available to Taiwan such defense articles and defense services” as may be necessary to “enable Taiwan to maintain sufficient self-defense capabilities.”

Maintaining the status quo

Taiwan, meanwhile, said comments by Trump and Rubio signal that U.S. policy toward the island remains unchanged.

“It is a clear fact that [Taiwanese] President Lai Ching-te has consistently advocated for continuing to contribute to regional peace and stability and remaining committed to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait,” Taiwan’s presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said in a statement on Saturday.

“China’s escalating military threat is the sole destabilizing factor within the Indo-Pacific region, including the Taiwan Strait,” Kuo added.

“If you look at the readouts of all Trump-Xi meetings before this [week], just the last several that have occurred since maybe April of last year, you see the U.S. readouts have a much smaller portion focused on Taiwan,” Rush Doshi, director of the China strategy initiative, Council on Foreign Relations, said Friday on CNBC’s “Squawk Box Asia.”

“There’s really no sign that there’s been a significant change in [the U.S.] Taiwan policy, at least not yet from the summit,” Doshi said.

Taiwan is a democratically self-ruled island that Beijing claims is part of its territory. Since 1979, the U.S. has recognized Beijing and not Taipei, and acknowledges the Chinese position that there is one China and Taiwan is part of China. The U.S. maintains an unofficial relationship with the island.

– CNBC’s Eunice Yoon, Dan Mangan, Kevin Breuninger and Azhar Sukri contributed to this story.

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Source: CNBC

Young Scholars Interpret Eastern Classics in Varied Forms, Revitalizing Confucian Thought in Singapore

Asia Insider — Sat, 16 May 2026 07:54:00 +0000

SINGAPORE, May 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On May 15, the Singapore Special Session under the Overseas Division of the 6th "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge concluded successfully. With the theme "Chinese Culture, World Heritage," the event centered on the global dissemination of the classic Confucian text The Analects. It brought together Chinese international students from Singapore’s universities, local youth, and educators from China and Singapore. Through diverse artistic expressions including English speeches, rap, dance, and cross-talk, the participants interpreted the contemporary value of Eastern wisdom, presenting a cultural feast that bridged the past and present, as well as China and Singapore.

The Singapore Session of the 6th "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge Concludes Successfully.

Six Years of Dedication: Connecting China and the Globe Through Classics

Co-hosted by China Education Television and New Channel International Education Group, the "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge is China’s first large-scale cultural exchange event for young people both in China and abroad, focusing on the international dissemination of Chinese culture. Launched in 2020, the challenge has attracted 1.53 million young participants from 149 countries and regions worldwide. Starting from its third edition, it has introduced an overseas division for Chinese students studying at foreign universities, offering them a platform to express their national sentiments and share China’s voice with the world. Following successful overseas sessions at the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford in 2024 and 2025 respectively, this year’s edition made its debut in Singapore.

As a cultural hub of Southeast Asia, Singapore serves as a vital gateway for Chinese culture to reach Southeast Asia and the world. By choosing The Analects as its core theme, this Singapore session delved deeply into the scholarly spirit of "Learning and then constantly putting what you’ve learned into practice," the value pursuit of "A gentleman can be guided by righteousness," and the principle of "Do not impose on others what you would not wish for yourself." It allowed Confucian wisdom spanning over 2,500 years to thrive anew in multicultural Singapore, infusing profound cultural meaning into people-to-people exchanges between China and Singapore.

Grand Opening: Distinguished Guests Gather to Explore Cultural Missions

The event garnered extensive attention and strong support from educational and cultural circles in both China and Singapore, with representatives from institutions including the Chinese Embassy in Singapore, the Singapore Institute of Management, PSB Academy, Curtin Singapore, and the Singapore Culture and Education Association attending in person.

Mr. Wang Yong, First Secretary of the Education Office of the Chinese Embassy in Singapore, delivered the opening address. He stated that the "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge is of far-reaching significance. It provides a high-quality platform for young people and culture enthusiasts to showcase themselves and engage in exchanges and learning. It also helps hone their cross-linguistic and cross-cultural communication skills, fosters their cultural confidence, and consolidates their sense of responsibility and commitment to inherit and carry forward fine traditional Chinese culture. With stories as a medium and culture as a bridge, the event features sincere voices from young people, which, in addition to conveying China’s strength, draws the hearts of the Chinese and Singaporean peoples closer and facilitates exchanges between diverse civilizations. He also hoped that Chinese students studying in Singapore would take this event as an opportunity to strive to be storytellers of China and ambassadors of Chinese culture.

Zhang Fanlin, Executive Commander of the "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge and VP of New Channel International Education Group, noted in his speech that as a leading Chinese international education institution, New Channel adheres to the educational philosophy of "cultivating young learners with deep Chinese cultural roots and authentic global competence," and is committed to deeply integrating international education with international communication. This Singapore overseas session, themed on The Analects, carries profound cultural significance: It inspires Chinese international students to unleash their creativity and vitality, interpret Chinese classics from a contemporary perspective through an international language, and tell China’s stories well and share China’s voice across the globe.

Classics Revitalized: Diverse Renditions of The Analects‘ Contemporary Meaning

The performances at this edition highlighted a hallmark of "integrating ancient and modern elements, blending Chinese and Western styles." Young participants delivered creative interpretations, rendering the ancient Confucian classics vivid and approachable while showcasing the younger Chinese generation’s admiration for and inheritance of the classics.

Wang Minda from Nanyang Technological University presented an original Chinese-English rap titled PhD Rap Diary (Confucius in a Group Meeting), which stood out as one of the event’s highlights. He cleverly wove Confucius’s educational principles of "teaching students in accordance with their aptitude" and "diligently pursuing knowledge without ever feeling satisfied" into the daily research and group meeting experiences of modern PhD students and supervisors. Through trendy rap, he portrayed Confucius as "China’s earliest doctoral supervisor," delighting the audience in a lighthearted atmosphere. Ji Sihan, an environmental engineering student at the National University of Singapore, delivered a speech titled "Standing Firm in Hardship," resonating deeply with the audience. Drawing on her own experience of loneliness and academic pressure while studying abroad, as well as the social mission of environmental engineering in global climate governance, she offered a profound interpretation of the quote: "Noble men, indeed, also face hardships, but unlike petty men, they do not lose their composure or act recklessly when confronted with adversity," illustrating how Confucian ethos informs contemporary personal growth and global problem-solving.

The fusion of traditional art and international expression was equally splendid. Highlights included the bilingual bel canto performance Ode to the Orchid, bilingual recitations of The Analects: Youthful Journey and A Millennium of Questions and Answers, the original cross-talk Confucius Goes South to the Ocean, and the martial arts performance Youthful Grace of Benevolence. These programs showcased the diverse expressive charm of The Analects from multiple dimensions.

Passing the Torch: Writing a New Chapter Through Cultural Bridges

The event also arranged a Chinese cultural experience zone outside the venue, featuring three signature activities: solving lantern riddles, hanging sachets, and creating handwritten brush-calligraphy slips. This allowed Chinese and international guests to experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture up close through sight, sound, touch, and perception after the performances.

Under colorful lanterns, traditional Chinese riddles drew many visitors to stop and participate. In the calligraphy and painting area, foreign friends picked up brushes for the first time to experience the charm of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting. People of different nationalities and languages exchanged ideas and strengthened friendship through interaction, making this the most touching part of the event.

The successful Singapore session not only provided a platform for Chinese and Singaporean youth to showcase themselves and engage in cultural exchanges, but also enabled Confucian wisdom to transcend boundaries and radiate its unique charm in Singapore, contributing Chinese insights to the exchange and mutual learning of world civilizations. Moving forward, the "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge will continue to serve as a bridge for cross-cultural communication, joining hands with global youth to help more authentic, profound and heartfelt Chinese stories take root, bloom and bear fruit worldwide.

Novarè Injury Care and Rehab Expands Chiropractic Services in Fort Myers, FL

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 18:29:00 +0000

Fort Myers patients now have access to advanced accident injury technology, spinal decompression therapy, chiropractic treatment, and rehabilitation services through Novarè Injury Care and Rehab.

Novarè Injury Care and Rehab Expands Chiropractic Services in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers patients now have access to advanced accident injury technology, spinal decompression therapy, chiropractic treatment, and rehabilitation services through Novarè Injury Care and Rehab.

Fort Myers, FL , May 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Novarè Injury Care and Rehab has expanded its accident injury services at its Fort Myers location, bringing more than $2 million in specialized recovery equipment and advanced rehabilitation technology to Southwest Florida patients seeking treatment after auto accidents and personal injuries.

The expansion strengthens the clinic’s ability to provide advanced accident injury care for residents throughout Fort Myers and surrounding communities. Patients visiting the facility can access treatment options that include spinal decompression therapy, rehabilitation programs, soft tissue therapy, mobility restoration, neurological rehabilitation, and chiropractic care.

Novarè Injury Care and Rehab

The clinic also offers diagnostic-focused evaluations aimed at identifying the underlying effects of trauma commonly associated with car accidents, slip-and-fall injuries, workplace incidents, and other personal injury cases.

According to the clinic, many accident injuries involve more than temporary discomfort and often affect the nervous system, soft tissue structures, posture, biomechanics, and long-term mobility. The expanded Fort Myers location was developed to address those complex conditions through a combination of advanced technology and individualized rehabilitation plans.

Novarè Injury Care and Rehab

“A five-minute adjustment never healed an accident injury. We treat the nervous system, the biomechanics, the soft tissue, and the legal case — because all four have to recover for a patient to actually get their life back,” said Dr. Ivan Bracic, DC, Novarè Injury Care and Rehab.

The Fort Myers clinic features advanced rehabilitation equipment designed to support recovery after whiplash, herniated discs, spinal compression injuries, neck pain, back pain, headaches, and joint injuries commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents. Patients can also access Novarè Injury Care and Rehab spinal decompression therapy services, which are used to reduce spinal pressure and improve mobility for individuals dealing with disc-related pain and nerve compression.

Novarè Injury Care and Rehab

As a leading chiropractor and injury rehabilitation provider in Fort Myers, the clinic offers treatment plans that combine chiropractic adjustments with corrective rehabilitation therapies. Its approach focuses on restoring motion, reducing inflammation, improving posture, and addressing muscular and neurological dysfunction associated with traumatic injuries. The clinic also works with attorneys and insurance providers to help document injuries and treatment progress when patients are pursuing accident-related claims.

The expanded services reflect growing demand for specialized injury rehabilitation in Southwest Florida, where traffic congestion and population growth continue to contribute to rising numbers of motor vehicle accidents. By increasing access to advanced equipment and therapy options, the clinic aims to help patients recover more efficiently while reducing the risk of chronic pain and long-term complications.

The clinic also offers Novarè Injury Care and Rehab chiropractic services that integrate manual therapy techniques with rehabilitation exercises and advanced recovery equipment. Its treatment philosophy emphasizes identifying the root cause of pain and dysfunction rather than only addressing surface-level symptoms.

Patients seeking advanced Accident injury care in Fort Myers can learn more about available treatment options, rehabilitation services, and spinal decompression therapy by visiting https://novareinjurycare.com/.

About Novarè Injury Care and Rehab

Novarè Injury Care and Rehab provides chiropractic treatment, spinal decompression therapy, rehabilitation services, and accident injury recovery programs for patients throughout Southwest Florida. The clinic focuses on treating the neurological, structural, and soft tissue effects of personal injuries and auto accidents using advanced rehabilitation technology and individualized treatment plans.

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Media Contact
Novarè Injury Care and Rehab
15880 Summerlin Rd #114, Fort Myers, FL 33908
(239) 893-2225
https://novareinjurycare.com/

Disclaimer:

Any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely a substitute for sound medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider. Make sure to consult with a professional physician before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the information and details shared above. Individual results may vary as the statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to cure or treat any disease.

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Novarè Injury Care and Rehab Expands Chiropractic Services in Fort Myers, FL

Best Gold IRA Companies in the USA Revealed by AFRL Horizons for 2026

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 18:27:00 +0000

AFRL Horizons ranks Goldco as the best overall gold IRA company in its 2026 USA review, highlighting key shifts toward asset-backed retirement investing strategies.

Best Gold IRA Companies in the USA Revealed by AFRL Horizons for 2026

AFRL Horizons ranks Goldco as the best overall gold IRA company in its 2026 USA review, highlighting key shifts toward asset-backed retirement investing strategies.

New York City, NY , May 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AFRL Horizons delivers new clarity for retirement investors through its latest 2026 report on the best gold IRA companies in the USA, recognizing Goldco as the best overall gold IRA company. The findings respond to growing demand for clearer evaluation standards as more investors turn to gold-backed retirement strategies amid shifting market conditions. Through this report, AFRL Horizons provides a structured framework for comparing leading gold IRA companies with greater confidence and clarity.

AFRL Horizons

The report highlights a clear shift in retirement planning as more individuals move toward asset-backed strategies. A spokesperson for AFRL Horizons stated, “We developed this report to bring structure to a crowded space where gold IRA companies compete for investor attention and vary widely in transparency, service quality, and long-term reliability. Goldco secured the top position by consistently delivering clear pricing, responsive support, and dependable outcomes across both new and experienced investors.”

The rapid growth of gold IRA companies has made it harder for investors to distinguish between providers that deliver consistent results and those that rely on surface-level claims. That challenge led AFRL Horizons to apply a focused evaluation framework that compares service reliability, pricing transparency, and long-term performance across leading firms.

That framework takes a practical view of what investors actually experience when opening and managing a gold IRA. The methodology centers on how effectively each company supports investors throughout the entire process, including account setup, fund transfers, secure storage, and ongoing communication. For example, an investor rolling over funds from an existing retirement account needs clear guidance, timely processing, and transparency at each step to avoid delays or penalties. Goldco stood out by combining a straightforward onboarding process with consistent guidance, allowing investors to move forward without unnecessary delays or confusion.

Independent sources support these findings and reinforce Goldco’s position in the market. A Business Insider report recognizes Goldco as the best overall gold IRA company for 2026, highlighting its consistent service standards and strong reputation among investors. A separate Yahoo Finance analysis also places Goldco among the leading gold IRA companies, pointing to its reliability and performance across key evaluation factors. Together, these assessments align with AFRL Horizons’ conclusions and reflect a broader industry consensus around Goldco’s standing.

For investors, the report replaces uncertainty with a clear, structured way to compare gold IRA companies based on consistent criteria. This clarity becomes critical when protecting retirement savings and evaluating long-term stability. Industry observers also point to the importance of ongoing support, noting that Goldco continues to guide investors through account setup and maintains clear communication as conditions evolve.

This report reinforces the importance of selecting among the best gold IRA companies with a clear understanding of value and reliability. By naming Goldco as the best overall gold IRA company, AFRL Horizons establishes a strong benchmark for investors evaluating their options. The findings highlight the growing role of gold-backed retirement solutions in long-term financial planning.

To learn more, readers can explore the full report and insights at https://www.afrlhorizons.com/.

About AFRL Horizons

AFRL Horizons operates at the intersection of financial research and investor decision-making, delivering structured analysis on retirement strategies and alternative investments. The firm evaluates market trends, benchmarks leading firms, and translates complex data into clear, actionable insights. Its reports help investors cut through uncertainty and identify opportunities grounded in real performance.

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Media Contact

AFRL Horizons
Address: 667 Madison Avenue, New York City NY 10065
Phone: 1-646-580-7730
Website: https://www.afrlhorizons.com/

Disclaimer:

This is not an endorsement or recommendation. All investments carry significant risk and all investment decisions of an individual remain the specific responsibility of that individual. There is no guarantee that it will result in profits or that it will not result in a full loss or losses All investors are advised to fully understand all risks associated with any kind of investing they choose to do.

There is no offer to sell, no solicitation of an offer to buy, and no recommendation of any security or any other product or service in this article. Moreover, nothing contained in this PR should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security, or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. It is your responsibility to determine whether any investment, investment strategy, security, or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. Consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax advisor regarding your specific business, legal, or tax situation.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

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Best Gold IRA Companies in the USA Revealed by AFRL Horizons for 2026

Chinese EVs are coming to Canada, and some dealers can’t wait to sell them

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 18:25:38 +0000

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — Michael MacGillivray sees the arrival of Chinese electric vehicles in Canada as a potential game changer.

“I think it is going to a be a huge eye-opener,” said MacGillivray, who oversees 10 dealerships in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Canada.

As the CEO of Century Auto Group and Sigma Auto Group, MacGillivray is working to become one of the dealers in the country who will sell imported Chinese EVs. In April, he went to the Beijing Auto Show with other dealers from Canada to establish relationships with Chinese automakers and get a feel for the cars and SUVs they could eventually export to his country.

“When I was in China, I was very impressed by the Chinese vehicles,” he said. “They have materials that are second to none. Their styling is impressive. The ride is very impressive.”

Not everyone likes the idea of Canada allowing the sale of EVs imported from China.

The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association said the decision to allow the sale of Chinese-made EVs was deeply concerning.

President Donald Trump is even more harsh, calling the move “a disaster.” U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy posted on X, “Canada will live to regret the day they let the Chinese Communist Party flood North America with their EVs.”

Officially, Canada is allowing just 49,000 Chinese-made EVs to be imported for retail sales annually at a tariff rate of 6.1%, a fraction of the 100% tariff that is in place for all other vehicles China would export to Canada.

That lower tariff for EVs has convinced Chinese automakers it’s time to set up dealerships.

“We received nearly 400 inquiries from different dealers across Canada who are very interested and excited to represent any of these Chinese brands,” said Farid Ahmad, CEO of DSMA, an auto dealership broker in suburban Toronto.

Ahmad is connecting dealers with Chinese automakers like BYD, Geely and Chery.

“I think from their perspective it gives them a foothold in the North American market,” he said.

General Motors, Ford, Toyota and Hyundai sell the most vehicles in Canada, according to S&P Global. Last year, industry sales topped 1.9 million vehicles, slightly more than all of the vehicles sold in California in 2025.

Limiting the number of China EV sales with a low tariff to just 49,000 vehicles is one way for Canadian leaders to put guardrails on allowing the Chinese to enter Canada’s auto market.

“They’re being careful in terms of how much volume is being allowed in,” said Michael Robinet, vice president of forecast strategy for S&P Global Mobility, an automotive industry consulting firm. “Anywhere between 3% to 5% of the market is sizable but, nonetheless, not something that will change the competitive dynamic significantly.”

On the street here, Canadians told CNBC they are curious and eager to have the chance to buy electric models from China.

“I think they will destroy the market in a good way,” said Canadian Patrick Hunt.

“So, definitely more chances, more options for people to choose different vehicles,” Canadian Daniel Haim said, “With what’s going on with gas prices, I think that it’s going to work out well for any Chinese manufacturer coming here, especially with electric vehicles.”

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Source: CNBC

Knowledge Exchange 2026 – Artistic Intelligence: Shaping Human Achievement

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:25:00 +0000

When AI Meets Artistic Intelligence — Cross-City, Cross-Disciplinary Creative Education in Action

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2026 – As artificial intelligence (AI) sweeps across the globe, how should humanity redefine the core competencies needed to shape the future? Funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust and organised by AFTEC, Knowledge Exchange 2026—Artistic Intelligence: Shaping Human Achievement opens today for two days at Hong Kong’s newest cultural landmark—the East Kowloon Cultural Centre—marking the venue’s first major international arts education event. As a flagship annual initiative of the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project, the forum has attracted nearly 260 educators, artists and stakeholders to explore how creative teaching and learning can inspire learning, spark creativity and nurture talent, laying the foundation for a better future.

Bringing Together Education and Cultural Leaders to Build a Cross-Disciplinary Creative Network

The opening ceremony was officiated by Ms Winnie Yip, Head of Charities (Culture & Sports Cluster; Community Engagement), The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

In her opening speech, Ms Winnie Yip, Head of Charities (Culture & Sports Cluster; Community Engagement), The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “The Club has been supporting the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project since 2021. The results have been truly encouraging. The programme has strengthened participating students’ understanding of and care for others, while deepening their interest in arts and interdisciplinary learning. With the second phase now underway, we look forward to further supporting the growth and transformation of students and teachers.”

The opening ceremony also featured Prelude in Light, Sound & Video, a multimedia work created by students of the School of Theatre and Entertainment Arts at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA), setting the stage for the forum and showcasing the creative potential of the younger generation.

Ms Lynn Yau, Chief Executive Officer of AFTEC and Project Director of the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project, said: “In an era dominated by artificial intelligence, we need to redefine the unique value of humanity more than ever. AFTEC has always been committed to training teachers and creative practitioners, nurturing the ‘5Cs’ core competencies—Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Contribution—through systematic teaching strategies. By integrating creative learning into school curricula, we nurture a new generation equipped with resilience and problem-solving skills, while actively building a cross-disciplinary learning network. We are deeply grateful for the vision and support of The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust and the participation of our partners from various sectors, allowing us to collaboratively shape human achievement through Artistic Intelligence and mould the future with creativity.”

Redefining AI — Nurturing Irreplaceable “first-class humans”

The highlight of the forum’s first day was the first cross-city dialogue, a keynote entitled Creative Cities, Creative Mindsets: Bath, Hong Kong, New Delhi. Ms Kate Cross MBE, Director of The Egg at Theatre Royal Bath, United Kingdom; Ms Jigyasa Labroo, CEO and Co-founder of Slam Out Loud, New Delhi, India; Professor Anna CY Chan, Director of The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts; and Ms Lynn Yau, Chief Executive Officer of AFTEC, delivered the keynote together. The four creative visionaries highlighted that Artistic Intelligence is an indispensable competency for humanity in the age of AI, and shared how global frameworks can be adapted to local practice across the three cities’ distinctive educational and cultural ecosystems to cultivate young people’s imagination, empathy and meaning-making — core competencies for navigating an ever-changing future.

Ms Kate Cross introduced the School Without Walls programme, a groundbreaking initiative that immerses students in cultural venues for seven weeks, significantly enhancing their writing, emotional expression, and self-directed learning abilities. Ms Jigyasa Labroo shared Slam Out Loud’s work, which, through over 100 hours of arts-based social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum, has successfully boosted the confidence, curiosity, and emotional regulation of 700,000 children across two Indian states. Professor Anna CY Chan, from the macro perspective of higher education and talent cultivation, emphasised the bridging role of Artistic Intelligence between professional arts training and primary/secondary creative education. Ms Lynn Yau showcased how the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project transforms artists into “Teaching Artists,” shifting schools’ vision from “Arts Provisioned” towards being “Arts Empowered,” enabling Hong Kong students to demonstrate stronger vitality in cross-disciplinary learning.

The session also featured internationally acclaimed arts educator Professor Anne Bamford OBE, FCGI, Director of the International Research Agency; Professor Anne Mette Hjort, Director of The Research Centre for Creative Arts and Public Value, The Education University of Hong Kong; Mr Victor Kwok, Deputy Research Director of Our Hong Kong Foundation and Committee Member of the All-China Youth Federation; and Ms Heidi Lee, Executive Director of Hong Kong Ballet, as respondents. They offered diverse perspectives from policy research, cultural promotion and professional development, exploring how the arts and creativity can nurture outstanding talent of the future through structured and sustainable educational approaches in Hong Kong.

Collaborative Workshops—From Theory to Practice

The forum also featured collaborative workshops, where participants experienced first-hand how educational visions can be translated into practical teaching plans in an interactive setting.

In today’s (15 May) sessions, Creative Classroom LIVE!, led by teaching teams from Tin Shui Wai Methodist Primary School and Tuen Mun Government Primary School, brought authentic teaching plans to life in the theatre, allowing participants to experience the transformative power of creativity in local schools’ setting. Professor Anne Bamford OBE, FCGI, Director of the International Research Agency, facilitated the session The How Factor Lab: Designing Arts-rich Learning that Lasts?, discussing how the arts can be incorporated into education through sustainable policy and teaching strategies to establish a long-term and stable creative ecosystem in schools and communities.

Day Two Highlights — The Many Dimensions of Artistic Intelligence

On the second day of the forum (16 May), discussions will build upon the first day’s highlights and continue to delve deeper into the theme of Artistic Intelligence. In the keynote The Real AI: Artistic Intelligence and the Future of Human Potential, Professor Anne Bamford OBE, FCGI, Director of the International Research Agency, will discuss how the integrated development of personal cognitive, creative, social and digital capabilities can unlock human potential and shape a new generation equipped with innovation and adaptability, calling on education systems, cultural institutions and communities to collaborate in ensuring that young people maintain their unique edge in the age of AI.

Two collaborative workshops will also take place. School Without Walls: Changing Sites of Learning, led by Ms Kate Cross MBE, Director of The Egg at Theatre Royal Bath, United Kingdom, will demonstrate how learning spaces can be extended beyond school campuses to curate meaningful and personalised arts education experiences through the School Without Walls programme. What if We All Had a Voice? The Possibilities of the Arts in Social-Emotional Learning, led by Ms Jigyasa Labroo, CEO and Co-founder of Slam Out Loud, New Delhi, India, will share how locally rooted curriculum resources that address social issues can be developed to empower children to use creativity to tackle life and societal challenges and to weave their dreams.

Mutual Growth—Frontline Teachers and Artists Share Their Journeys and Learning

The forum also invited schools and creative practitioners from the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project to share their practical experiences. In the panel discussion From Traditional to Creative Teaching, Vice Principal Kiley Tse of Ho Lap Primary School (Sponsored by Sik Sik Yuen), Ms Katherine Ip of Hong Kong and Macau Lutheran Church Primary School, and Ms Jourdan Wong of Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Primary School will share insights and explore the far-reaching impact of creative teaching and learning on teachers’ personal growth, students, the learning environment, and the overall creative learning culture of schools.

Another panel discussion, From Introspective Artists to Communicative Teaching Artists, features creative practitioners Ms Grace Cheng; Mr Reds Cheung of Laichankee; Ms Cally Yip of Passoverdance; and Ms Priscilla Lai, Lead Creative Practitioner of the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project. Their sharing proves that the Project’s collaborative model not only benefits schools—teachers’ and creative practitioners’ artistic practices are also nourished through the teaching process, fostering mutual growth and grooming the community of practice of teaching artists in Hong Kong.

Creative Learning Arts Awards — Celebrating Local Education Transformation

To showcase the Project’s impact over the years, the forum will host the Creative Learning Arts Awards ceremony, recognising outstanding schools, teachers and creative practitioners, and celebrating the remarkable progress of the local education community in advancing creative thinking and whole-person development.

For more information, please visit:

AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project: https://creativefutures.aftec.hk/home-en/

Knowledge Exchange 2026—Artistic Intelligence: Shaping Human Achievement: https://creativefutures.aftec.hk/knowledge-exchange/ke2026/

Hashtag: #AFTEC

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

About AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project

Funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the AFTEC Jockey Club Creative Futures Project is a multi-level creative learning scheme designed to provide a much-needed system-led approach to creative thinking in educational institutions from tertiary to primary.

Based on a successful pilot (2021 – 2024), the key focus in this expanded version is in training teachers and creative practitioners.

With practical strategies for professionals to teach across the curriculum based on the 5C’s—Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Contribution— creative practitioners join teachers for in-school classes to co-design and co-create lesson plans for use in classroom throughout the year.

About AFTEC

Advancing creative learning and arts education in Hong Kong

Creativity allows us to recognise potential within ourselves and the world around us. It promotes problem-solving, nurtures relationships, cultivates resilience, and can transform lives in countless ways. At AFTEC, we work with students, educators, and creative practitioners to plant the seeds of creativity in our community.

As a proudly homegrown Hong Kong organisation, we nurture the city’s greatest natural resource — its people. Through co-designed, collaborative, and inclusive bilingual education programmes, we create supportive environments where young minds are free to explore, express, and flourish. We spark imagination, build confidence, and foster a sense of growth and belonging together.

Website: www.aftec.hk

Come to Beijing Chaoyang for an Adventurous Encounter with Trendy Toys and Intangible Cultural Heritage

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:02:00 +0000

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2026 – From May 15 to 24, 2026, Beijing Chaoyang Park will host a unique cultural event — the first China New Cultural and Creative Market & Trendy Toy Carnival.

The first China New Cultural and Creative Market

This is not a traditional exhibition, but an urban carnival that seamlessly blends popular IPs, intangible cultural heritage (ICH) crafts, immersive performances, and top-tier cultural and creative products from across China. The fair brings together high-quality creative cultural products, time-honored ICH brands, and trendy toy labels. Covering a total area of approximately 66,000 square meters, it features both indoor and outdoor zones. Centered around two main themes — “New Oriental Aesthetics” and “The Rise of Guochao (Chinese trendy culture)” — the event showcases over 10,000 creative products.

In the “Rise of Guochao” zone, leading Chinese trendy toy brands present immersive installations. 52TOYS brings the “Panda Roll Playful Panda Forest,” where dozens of lifelike, giant panda sculptures are scattered among the trees, creating perfect photo opportunities. Pop Mart hosts a special exhibition celebrating the 20th anniversary of its hit IP “MOLLY,” featuring a giant castle inflatable and vending machines for blind boxes. Also making its offline debut as a themed zone, “The Emoji Clinic,” the globally recognized emoji brand launches several exclusive items not yet available in stores.

The ICH section is equally impressive. Ten nationally recognized master artisans showcase their representative works at the “Oriental Showcase,” presenting ten traditional crafts, including filigree inlay, Hepu horn carving, polished lacquerware, Longquan celadon, and Shui ethnic group’s horsetail embroidery. Traditional ICH techniques are creatively combined with trendy toy designs — Peking silk figurines, cloisonné, and Beijing embroidery are integrated into modern doll clothing and accessories, giving birth to a unique Oriental trend aesthetic. Additionally, over 40 other ICH items — such as jade carving, cloisonné, Beijing embroidery, Miao embroidery, and carved lacquer — allow visitors to observe master artisans at work up close and participate in hands-on activities like seal carving, tie-dyeing, and clay sculpting.

Throughout the event, five major venues in Chaoyang Park will host over 100 performances, spanning street dance, traditional Chinese music, symphony, opera, and parades. The Shell Theater will present an ACG symphony concert and a symphony of Hong Kong film golden melodies. At the East Square of Chaoyang Planning Art Museum, the “New Oriental Aesthetics” pop-up stage will feature continuous performances of Jingxi Taiping Drum dance and classical umbrella dance. The East Square of Weibo IN will focus on trendy crossover acts, with breakdance battles and jazz quartets taking turns on stage.

And when night falls, even more intriguing adventures begin. A mecha parade weaves through the crowds — you might brush past Black Myth: Wukong and a troupe of mascots. On the Fangzhou Lake, lantern-lit flower boats set sail, their slow journey accompanied by ancient music and shimmering water, creating a moving Oriental painting. From daytime blind-box surprises to nighttime lantern-lit garden strolls, the park offers unexpected delights at every turn.

No tickets are required — just a sense of curiosity. Bring your camera, gather your friends, come to Beijing Chaoyang Park, become a “power player,” and join this immersive carnival of trendy toys and intangible cultural heritage.
Hashtag: #Chaoyang

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

Customer Service Excellence Award 2025 Concluded Successfully MTR Crowned Grand Champion Among Over 100 Winners

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 10:52:00 +0000

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2026 – The Hong Kong Association for Customer Service Excellence (HKACE) hosted the HKACE Customer Service Excellence Award Presentation Ceremony cum 26th Anniversary Celebration Luncheon last week at The Regent Hotel Hong Kong. Over 100 awards were presented to recognize outstanding customer service practitioners, with MTR Corporation named the Grand Award Champion as the highlight of the occasion.

A group photo features Hon Algernon Yau, JP, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (9th from right, front row); Derek Choi, Chairman of HKACE (10th from right, front row); Hon Shiu Ka Fai, BBS, JP, CPPCC National Committee Member and Member of the Legislative Council (8th from right, front row); Hon Perry Yiu, MH, JP, Member of the Legislative Council (7th from left, back row); together with HKACE Founding Members, Executive Committee members and guests.

Held under the theme “High Tech, High Touch – AI Empowers a New Era in Customer Service”, the event attracted more than 450 guests. The Honourable Algernon Yau, JP, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. The award presentation ceremony was also privileged to have The Hon Shiu Ka Fai, BBS, JP, Member of the National Committee of the CPPCC and Member of the Legislative Council; The Hon Perry Yiu, MH, JP, Member of the Legislative Council; together with representatives of professional associations who served as award presenters. Members of the award judging panels and customer service industry leaders also joined the celebration to recognize the outstanding achievements of the award winners.

Hon Algernon Yau: Government Injected HK$200 Million into BUD Fund to Support AI-driven Digital Transformation

In his opening address, The Honourable Algernon Yau, JP, noted that artificial intelligence was driving customer service into a new era, shifting from human-led operations to a model that integrates data analytics and intelligent systems. Mr Yau stressed that as technology advances, human warmth becomes increasingly precious. He emphasized that true excellence in customer service is built on a customer-centric foundation, requiring service professionals to integrate technology with empathy, sincere communication and personalized attention to achieve a balance of efficiency and human warmth.

“2026 marks the start of the planning and layout for the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan, which prioritizes high-quality development, innovation-driven growth and the deep integration of the digital economy. Hong Kong is proactively aligning itself with the country’s development strategy, contributing its unique strengths to meet national needs. The services sector, in particular, must upgrade and transform. To help, the Hong Kong SAR Government has put HK$200 million into the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales (BUD Fund), offering targeted support for AI adoption and helping businesses transform digitally.” Mr Yau stated.

Derek Choi: 40% Surge in Applications Reflected High Competitiveness and Recognition of the Awards

Mr Derek Choi, Chairman of HKACE, said “the Customer Service Excellence Award 2025 received 220 applications – a significant 40% increase from the previous year – reflecting the industry’s growing emphasis on service quality. A total of 102 awards were presented, making the competition exceptionally fierce.”

“Participants had to be nominated by the member companies and submit a written proposal in the first round to be shortlisted among the five finalists for a panel interview,” Mr Choi explained. “An independent judging panel, composed of industry elites and academics, then determined the gold, silver, bronze, and merit award winners. This rigorous assessment process upheld the award programme’s standing.” Mr Choi also extended his heartfelt gratitude to all judging panel members, noting that their selfless dedication and strong support had contributed significantly to the credibility of the awards programme.

A total of 102 awards were presented at the event amidst fierce competition. Derek Choi, Chairman of HKACE, together with honourable guests, HKACE executive committee members, and all awardees, posed for a group photo to commemorate this significant moment.

Customer Service Excellence Award 2025 Winners Unveiled: MTR Crowned Grand Champion

The Customer Service Excellence Award 2025 featured three main categories – Individual Awards, Team Awards and Programme Awards – alongside the Grand Award. MTR Corporation scooped a total of 15 awards, standing out among a strong field of competitors to be named Grand Champion. HKT Limited and The Hong Kong Jockey Club also secured the 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up of the Grand Award respectively.

Other gold award winners included AIA International Limited, BMW (Hong Kong) Limited, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, Cathay Pacific Airways, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited, Hong Kong Fire Services Department, Hongkong Post, and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited.

Appendix 1: List of Winners of the HKACE Customer Service Excellent Award 2025

Grand Award
Champion	MTR Corporation
1st Runner-up	HKT Limited
2nd Runner-up	The Hong Kong Jockey Club
Individual Award – Contact Centre Service Award
Gold	Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited	Tse Mei Yee, Shirley
Silver	HKT Limited	Li Miu Hei, Annie
Bronze	AIA International Limited	Luk Kwong Lam
Merit	HKT Limited	Yeung Shuk Yi, Joe
Merit	The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd.	Wan Ka Hing, Tingo
Individual Award – Counter Service Award
Gold	BMW Concessionaires (HK)Ltd	Lai Ka Yui, Brian
Silver	CLP Power Hong Kong Limited	Lau Tik Fung, Oscar
Bronze	Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited	Ng Ka Ling, Aimee
Merit	China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited	Yeung Fong Chun, Frank
Merit	Sino Group – Citywalk 2 Management Company Limited
Individual Award – Field & Special Service Award
Gold	Hongkong Post	Hung Tsz Yin
Silver	Ngong Ping 360 Limited	Yip Ka Man, Carmen
Bronze	Shell Hong Kong Limited	Xia Min
Merit	Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited	Luk Ka Chun, Paul
Merit	Cathay	Ardis Yeung
Individual Award – Frontline Service Award
Gold	Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited	Kwan Shing Yan, Kelvin
Silver	Goodwell Property Management Limited	Wong Pui Ching, Rebecca
Bronze	MTR Corporation	Law Pak Hin, Hinson
Merit	The Hong Kong Jockey Club	Cheung Tsz Ching
Merit	Aviation Security Company Limited	Cheng Bing Lam
Individual Award – Internal Support Service Award
Gold	HKT Limited	Zheng Minsui
Silver	BOC Group Life Assurance Co. Ltd.	Ma Wing Sze, Sissy
Bronze	Cathay	Bianca Tang
Merit	AIA International Limited	Lyu Chen Yu
Merit	Airport Authority Hong Kong	Agnes Wong

Individual Award – Customer Service Training Award
Gold	HKT Limited	Law Kar Yan, Kannis
Silver	The Hong Kong Jockey Club	Brian Leung
Bronze	Cathay	Jennifer Lui
Merit	MTR Corporation	Chiu Tsz Ho, Ivan
Merit	H Properties Management (HK) Co. Ltd.	Yip Ching Ching, Janee
Individual Award – Customer Service Supervisor / Team Manager
Gold	Cathay	Michelle To
Silver	The Hong Kong Jockey Club	Miriam Hang
Bronze	MTR Corporation	Matthew Cheung
Merit	Ocean Park Corporation	Li Chi Kit, Henry
Merit	HKT Limited	Wong Lai Man, Ulysses
Individual Award – Top 5 Young Stars of the Year
	Cathay	Tedd Wong
	The Hong Kong and China Gas Co. Ltd.	Sham Fung Wa
	Hong Kong Tourism Board	Michelle Tam
	CLP Power Hong Kong Limited	Ng Oi Mei, Amy
	Ngong Ping 360 Limited	Yau Cheuk Ting, Anna
Team Award – Contact Centre Service Award
Gold	Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited	Digital Hub
Silver	China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited	Customer Contact Centre
Bronze	MTR Corporation	High Speed Rail Service Hotline
Merit	Cathay	Virtual Relationship Manager
Merit	HKT Limited	1O1O Outbound Contact Centre
Team Award – Counter Service Award
Gold	CLP Power Hong Kong Limited	Smart Energy@Tai Po
Silver	Bank of Communications (Hong Kong) Limited	Tai Po Branch
Bronze	The Hong Kong Jockey Club	Kowloon Bay, Telford Off-Course Betting Branch
Merit	MTR Corporation	ELEMENTS Concierge Service
Merit	Airport Authority Hong Kong	Customer Service Team & Terminal Duty Team

Team Award – Field & Special Service Award
Gold		Cathay			HKIA Rescue Team
Silver		The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd.			KMB Field Operations Support Team
Bronze		CLP Power Hong Kong Limited			CLP Green Studio Multi-Purpose Vehicle
Merit		Ngong Ping 360 Limited			Attractions & Entertainment Team
Merit		Airport Authority Hong Kong			Service Team of Airport Home Baggage Check-in
Team Award – Frontline Service Award
Gold		Cathay			Cabin Crew Team
Silver		The Hong Kong Jockey Club			Tuen Mun Town Plaza Off-Course Betting Branch
Bronze		HKT Limited			“Here to Serve” Team
Merit		MTR Corporation			East Rail Line Interfacing Team
Merit		Airport Authority Hong Kong			HKIA VIP Lounge and Government VIP Lounge Team
Team Award – Internal Support Service Award
Gold		AIA International Limited			Premier Agency Enquiry Team
Silver		MTR Corporation			Operations Data Studio
Bronze		HKT Limited			Operations Transformation Team
Merit		AXA China Region Insurance Company Limited			Customer Strategy and Insights Team
Merit		The Hong Kong Jockey Club			Retail – Racecourse Work Group
Team Award – Customer Service Training Award
Gold		HKT Limited			Consumer Business Group Training Team
Silver		AIA International Limited			Service Training and Knowledge Team
Bronze		MTR Corporation			MTR Learning & Training
Merit		Hong Kong Tourism Board			Visitor Services and Human Resources
Merit		ABC Pathways School			Training & Development
Programme Award – Customer Retention Award
Gold	MTR Corporation			Elderly Care Programme
Silver	CLP Power Hong Kong Limited			Power Connect
Bronze	HKT Limited			HKT Commercial SME Customer Retention Programme
Merit	The Hong Kong Jockey Club			Experience Diversity, Connect with CARE
Merit	Cathay			Cathay Million Miles Programme
Programme Award – Digital Transformation Award
Gold			MTR Corporation	MTR Smart Mobility: Digital Transformation for Travel Concession Schemes
Silver			CLP Power Hong Kong Limited	Digital Transformation for Hong Kong ‘s Largest Residential Peak Demand Management
Bronze			Airport Authority Hong Kong	Smart Passenger Security Screening System at Hong Kong International Airport
Merit			China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited	AI+Service
Merit			Ngong Ping 360 Limited	“Delight Guests Always” – NP360 AI Assistant
Programme Award – Outstanding Customer Service Award
Gold			MTR Corporation	Kai Tak and Sung Wong Toi Stations Customer Experience Enhancement
Silver			Hong Kong Fire Services Department	“Old Friends” Home Visit Scheme
Bronze			Ngong Ping 360 Limited	Shining You Customer Service Program- Creating Muslim Friendly Attractions in Hong Kong
Merit			CLP Power Hong Kong Limited	CLP Community Watch & Care Service Pilot Programme
Merit			H Properties Management (HK) Co. Ltd.	Happy DNA: Happier Places, Happier People

Programme Award – People Development Award
Gold	Hong Kong Fire Services Department	Greater Bay Area Joint Emergency Response and Rescue Exercise “Liancheng – 2025”
Silver	Airport Authority Hong Kong	The Operation Officer Skill-based Salary Progression Scheme

This press release is issued by Passion PR Limited on behalf of the Hong Kong Bronze The Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Towards Excellence: Retail Succession Programme Merit MTR Corporation Buddy Scheme for Newly Recruit Station Officer Merit Aviation Security Company Limited Structured Customer Service Development Programme Programme Award – Service Innovation Award Gold MTR Corporation MTR Smart Mobility: Intelligent Crowd Diversion System for Kai Tak Sports Park Silver H Properties Management (HK) Co. Ltd. Happy Moment Bronze BOC Group Life Assurance Co. Ltd. 5+1 Senses @ Service Centre Merit The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd. Pet Bus Tour Merit HKT Limited Transforming Service Experience – Wise Programme Award – Employee Engagement Award Gold AIA International Limited “Inside Out” Silver The Hong Kong Jockey Club “HAPPI-D” Programme Bronze Ocean Park Corporation Village Adventure Merit MTR Corporation Know Our Customer Programme Association for Customer Service Excellence.
Hashtag: #HongKongAssociationForServiceExcellence #HKACE

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

About Hong Kong Association for Customer Service Excellence (HKACE)

Hong Kong Association of Customer Service Excellence (HKACE), a non-profit organisation, was established in February 2000 to represent more than 300,000 customer service practitioners in Hong Kong, the number of member companies has almost 50. The 9 founding member organisations are AIA International Limited, Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, Centaline Property Agency Limited, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited, HKT Limited, Hongkong Post, Shell Hong Kong Limited, Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and The Hong Kong Jockey Club. They are committed to continuously improve themselves, to promote customer service culture with passion, leveraging on members’ synergy and professional expertise.

The Association initiated a multitude of industry awards and programmes over the years, including the “Customer Service Excellence Award”, “Young Service Stars Programme”, and the “Quality Customer Service Programme”. “Service Appreciation Programme” was first launched in 2013 to foster service appreciation culture. The Association aims to facilitate the sharing of managerial experiences among member organizations, encourage innovation, and elevate the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s service sector by rewarding high levels of customer service.

About Customer Service Excellence Award

In line with the mission to promote customer service excellence among members, the HKACE introduced the Customer Service Excellence Award program in 2001 with an aim of motivating customer service staff, recognizing outstanding performers and promoting a customer service culture with member companies.

Voicecomm Technology (02495.HK) Forms Strategic Partnership with IT Park from Tajikistan

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 10:05:00 +0000

Jointly Building an AI Ecosystem Embedded with “Computing Power + Talent + Scenario” in Central Asia

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2026 – Voicecomm Technology Co., Ltd. (“Voicecomm Technology” or the “Company”, Stock Code: 2495.HK), a core technology provider and ecosystem operator of trustworthy conversational AI in China, is pleased to announce that the Group has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dushanbe Software Products and Information Technology Park (“Dushanbe IT Park“), at the recent “Tajikistan-China Digital Business Connect” IT Forum held in Beijing. The two parties will jointly establish a “Digital Talent Innovation Center” and collaborate in areas including artificial intelligence, big data, industrial internet, and embodied AI.

The “Tajikistan-China Digital Business Connect” IT Forum was grandly held in Beijing on May 11, 2026, during the state visit to China by Emomali Rahmon, President and National Leader of the Republic of Tajikistan. Organized by the Innovation and Digital Technologies Agency under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, the forum brought together core players from the digital industries of both countries, marking a new chapter in Tajikistan-China digital cooperation.

The forum was attended by representatives from 70 ICT companies from Tajikistan and over 120 leading technology companies from China, including Chinese tech giants such as Alibaba, ByteDance, BYD, Huawei, DeepSeek, Kuaishou, Lenovo, and Voicecomm Technology.

Five Pillars: Building a Trustworthy Conversational AI System in Central Asia

Dushanbe IT Park is a national digital technology innovation and industry cluster platform prioritized by the Government of Tajikistan, recognized as an emerging digital economy engine in Central Asia. Voicecomm Technology’s cooperation with the IT Park revolves around five pillars:

Joint Computing Power Center Construction: Co-build a public computing platform tailored for trustworthy conversational AI R&D, providing foundational support including computing resource scheduling, model training, and data processing.
Enabling Real-World Scenario: Integrate practical application scenarios from government affairs, urban services, industry, and manufacturing in both China and Tajikistan to provide industrial support for technology R&D and talent training.
Joint Training of Engineers: Establish training bases for universities in Tajikistan and across Central Asia, offering customized training programs, instructor development, and joint curriculum design.
International Authority Certification Implementation: Introduce international technical certification systems, offer accredited courses for AI engineers, big data analysts, robotics applications, and issue globally recognized certificates.
Technology Innovation Transfer & Talent Exchange: Build a collaborative “government-industry-university-research” mechanism to facilitate the implementation of joint R&D results in Tajikistan and establish a platform for two-way digital talent exchange between China and Tajikistan.

Expand Global Ecosystem Footprints and Focus on Long-Term Value Creation

With its core technical framework of “multi-modal perception + multi-model thinking,” Voicecomm Technology has achieved commercial deployment across various verticals, including smart city management, automotive and transportation, telecommunications, finance, healthcare, and energy. By establishing localized computing infrastructure, talent cultivation systems, and technical certification standards in Tajikistan – a key hub in Central Asia – Voicecomm Technology’s globalization strategy is evolving from product export to a comprehensive competitive advantage encompassing talent, standards, and ecosystems.

Christopher Chen, General Manager of Voicecomm Technology for the Middle East and Central Asia region, attended the conference and stated: “I am honored to represent Voicecomm Technology in reaching this strategic cooperation with Dushanbe IT Park at the Tajikistan-China Digital Business Connect Forum. This is not only a crucial milestone in Voicecomm Technology’s globalization but also an export of our ecosystem model. We are committed to deeply integrating trustworthy conversational AI and embodied AI technologies into the local market – empowering local talent, co-creating industry scenarios, and participating in standard setting. This deep-seated localized ecosystem co-creation model will unlock vast long-term growth opportunities for us in markets along the Belt and Road.”

Hashtag: #VoicecommTechnology #聲通科技

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

Voicecomm Technology Co., Ltd.

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Wuhan, Voicecomm Technology is one of the leading core technology providers and ecosystem operators of trustworthy conversational AI listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and obtained the qualification as National-level SRDI, Technology Little Giant and High-Tech Enterprise. Leveraging its proprietary trustworthy Agent，the Company overcomes pain points in the commercialization of large language models, such as hallucinations and compliance issues, ensuring AI is usable, manageable, and controllable in enterprise environments. For enterprise-level customers, the Company provides AI services covering the entire process of “communication –decision – execution”. Its trustworthy Agent solutions have been widely deployed across multiple scenarios, including City management and administration, Automotive and transportation, Telecommunications, Finance, Healthcare, and Energy management, and it is dedicated to empowering the intelligent transformation of diverse industries.

Green GSM partners with 75 Philippine transport companies to deploy up to 18,497 VinFast electric vehicles

Asia Insider — Fri, 15 May 2026 09:35:00 +0000

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2026 – Green GSM has signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and deposit agreements with transport companies and cooperatives in the Philippines, supporting the planned deployment of up to 18,497 VinFast electric vehicles for passenger transport operations across the Philippines. The agreements represent the next phase of Green GSM’s expansion strategy in the Philippines through a partnership model that combines Green GSM’s technology platform and operational standards with local market expertise and deployment capabilities.

Representatives of Green SM and Philippine transport enterprises and cooperatives at the signing ceremony for cooperation on developing the electric taxi ecosystem in the Philippines.

The agreements involve 75 transport companies and cooperatives operating across multiple provinces and cities in the Philippines, including Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Cavite, Pampanga, Bacolod, Batangas, Baguio, and Ozamiz. These markets continue to experience strong mobility demand alongside accelerating adoption of cleaner and more efficient urban transport solutions.

Under the partnership plan, the parties expect to deploy a fleet of 18,497 vehicles through a combination of direct investment and long-term leasing arrangements, including VinFast VF 5/Herio Green and Limo Green models optimized for ride-hailing and passenger transport operations.

The signing further expands Green GSM’s standardized all-electric mobility platform across major urban markets in Southeast Asia.

Within this regional expansion strategy, the Philippines plays a key role. Green GSM is expanding through a partnership-led model that combines centralized operating standards with local execution capabilities. Following the initial deployment of 2,500 vehicles in collaboration with Xentro Group, the next phase is expected to significantly expand both fleet scale and geographic coverage.

The model combines Green GSM’s standardized operating platform with locally-managed fleet operations and driver networks. This structure enables consistent service standards and scalable deployment while remaining adaptable to local market conditions. By leveraging existing transport networks, the model also creates a more practical pathway toward large-scale electric mobility adoption.

Mr. Gio Colmenares, CEO of Asia Prime Force Corporation, said: “This partnership reflects a broader shift underway across the transport industry, where scale, efficiency, and sustainability are becoming increasingly interconnected. Green GSM’s platform provides a structured approach to deploying electric mobility, combining operational clarity with long-term growth potential. We see this not only as an opportunity in the Philippines, but as part of a wider transformation of urban mobility across Southeast Asia.”

Ms. Dave Baldoza, Managing Director of Green EV Transport Corp and Green Fast Corporation, said: “For transport cooperatives, the transition to electric mobility is not only about technology, but also about long-term sustainability for our members. Green GSM’s model enables us to modernize our fleets while maintaining operational stability and access to consistent demand. This creates a clear pathway for cooperatives to participate in the next phase of urban transport development.”

Ms. Rachel Ann Villanueva, Chairwoman of Green Will Corporation, said: “Scaling electric mobility requires coordinated investment across vehicles, infrastructure, and operations. Partnership models like this demonstrate how different parts of the ecosystem can work together to enable deployment at scale. We see strong potential for this approach to accelerate adoption not only in the Philippines, but across emerging urban markets in the region.”

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, Global CEO of GSM, said: “Electrifying transportation is no longer a future trend, but an ongoing transition already taking place across major urban centers worldwide. Southeast Asia stands out as one of the most dynamic regions for this shift. Scaling electric mobility requires more than technology. It requires operating models that can maintain consistency across markets while adapting to local conditions. Through its platform and partnership approach, Green GSM aims to advance electric mobility in a practical and sustainable way while maintaining unified service standards across the ecosystem.”

Following the signing, partners are expected to complete vehicle orders and begin phased operations throughout 2026. The expansion further reinforces the transition toward large-scale electrification of urban transport networks in the Philippines, while enabling broader participation from transport companies and cooperatives in the country’s evolving mobility sector. With deployment planned across multiple provinces and cities, Green GSM continues to expand a mobility model built on scalable operations, standardized service quality, and long-term sustainability objectives.

Hashtag: #GreenSM

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