Category: What’s News Asia

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – The Singapore Institute of Management is encouraging prospective students to assess computing degrees by the capabilities they develop, rather than whether their titles feature artificial intelligence. Programming and mathematics requirements, opportunities to build and test systems, and the work students hope to pursue provide a more useful basis for comparison than the search for an “AI-proof” qualification.

This distinction matters as AI changes how work is performed. The Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) Labour Market Report First Quarter 2026 found that 18.9% of firms reported redesigning job functions in response to AI, compared with 6.2% reporting AI-related reductions in headcount or hiring. MOM’s findings suggest that AI’s impact was more evident in changes to existing work than in widespread job displacement.

For students considering whether to study computer science or another technology degree, the decision therefore extends beyond learning to use the latest tools. It involves understanding which programme will help them develop, evaluate and apply technology in the areas that interest them.

Computing knowledge extends beyond generating code

AI-assisted coding does not remove the need to understand how software works. GitHub’s guidance on reviewing AI-generated code emphasises testing, checking whether code meets its intended requirements, and identifying security vulnerabilities or incorrect logic. These responsibilities require more than accepting a tool’s output at face value.

Singapore’s technology skills landscape also points to a range of capabilities. The Infocomm Media Development Authority’s Singapore Digital Economy Report 2025, which examines developments in 2024, reported technology workforce growth led by AI and data roles and cybersecurity. It also identified rising demand for skills involving AI, Python, SQL and cloud technologies.

Against this backdrop, students can assess a computing degree by how it develops their ability to solve problems, understand systems and check the reliability of their work, alongside the particular technologies it covers.

Different computing pathways emphasise different kinds of work

Programmes offered at SIM through its university partners illustrate the distinctions between broad computing foundations and more specialised areas of study.

The University of London’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science, developed by Goldsmiths, University of London, covers programming, algorithms, data structures and software development. Its published career directions include application programming, software engineering and systems analysis. For students interested in building software while exploring different computing areas, the breadth of compulsory and optional modules is an important point of comparison.

The University of London’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence) combines computing foundations with specialist subjects including machine learning and neural networks, natural language processing and intelligent signal processing. Its listed career directions include machine learning engineering and software engineering involving machine learning. This pathway focuses on understanding and constructing intelligent systems, rather than simply using consumer AI applications.

The University of Wollongong’s Bachelor of Computer Science (Cyber Security) focuses on protecting digital systems. Its curriculum combines programming, networks and databases with subjects such as system security and ethical hacking. Potential career directions include security analysis and penetration testing. Students comparing this pathway should therefore examine both the security specialisation and the computing knowledge that supports it.

The University of Wollongong’s Bachelor of Business Information Systems connects technology with organisational needs. Subjects include systems analysis, business process management and management information systems, alongside programming and mathematics. Its published career directions include systems analysis and IT consultancy. The programme illustrates why a business-oriented technology degree should not automatically be regarded as a non-technical alternative.

These career directions are possibilities rather than guaranteed outcomes. A useful comparison considers both the curriculum and the requirements of the roles a student hopes to pursue.

Programming and mathematics deserve early attention

Programme titles alone do not reveal the extent of technical study involved. The University of London’s computer science degree includes introductory programming, computational mathematics and discrete mathematics in its first year. The University of Wollongong’s cybersecurity and business information systems programmes both include Fundamental Programming with Python and Mathematics for Computing among their core subjects.

Students should distinguish between meeting admission requirements and being prepared for the learning ahead. Reviewing module descriptions, assessment methods and the progression from introductory to advanced subjects can help them understand the demands of a programme. For those new to coding, useful areas to investigate include the amount of independent practice expected, the role of laboratory assignments and the academic support available. For those considering an AI specialisation, the comparison should also examine how mathematical concepts are applied to developing and evaluating systems.

Practical projects should reveal how students think

Practical work provides another way to assess a degree. The University of London’s computer science programme includes a final project in which students combine their knowledge and skills to create a software system. Its machine learning and AI pathway identifies a substantial practical project involving the construction of an AI system and its application to a problem.

Rather than looking only for the phrase “hands-on learning”, prospective students can examine what a project requires them to demonstrate. Useful questions concern how problems are defined, how solutions are tested and how individual contributions are assessed in group work. For example, a recommendation-system project could be assessed not only on whether it produces suggestions, but also on whether the student can explain the data used, the evaluation method and the system’s limitations. This distinction helps separate a working demonstration from a well-understood solution.

The decision should begin with the problems students want to solve

Building software, developing machine learning systems, investigating security weaknesses and improving business processes suggest different priorities when comparing degrees. Students can begin with the work that interests them, then examine the compulsory modules, specialist options and practical assessments that support that direction. The aim is not to identify a qualification that promises protection from every technological change. It is to choose a programme whose foundations and learning demands match the student’s interests, while providing opportunities to develop and demonstrate their understanding.

References

1. Ministry of Manpower, Manpower Research and Statistics Department. Labour Market Report First Quarter 2026. – https://stats.mom.gov.sg/iMAS_PdfLibrary/mrsd-Labour-Market-Report-1Q-2026.pdf
2. Infocomm Media Development Authority. Annual Report and Singapore Digital Economy Report 2025 – https://www.imda.gov.sg/resources/press-releases-factsheets-and-speeches/ar-sgde-2025
3. GitHub. Review AI-generated code – https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/tutorials/review-ai-generated-code
4. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science, University of London – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-science-honours-computer-science.
5. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence), University of London – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-science-honours-computer-science-machine-learning-and-artificial-intelligence
6. Bachelor of Computer Science (Cyber Security), University of Wollongong – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-computer-science-cyber-security
7. Bachelor of Business Information Systems, University of Wollongong – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-business-information-systems
8. SIM IT and Computer Science Discipline – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/disciplines/it-computer-science

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

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About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 170 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg

QashierGM works from each merchant’s own sales, payouts and menu, and gets routine work done with the owner’s approval. With Crew, Qashier’s new team chat, anyone on the team can tag @GM to get things done, and QashierGM acts only within each person’s role.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – Qashier, the unified merchant operating system serving more than 25,000 businesses across Southeast Asia, today launched QashierGM, an AI general manager that works with a merchant’s whole team. Available at no additional cost to all Qashier merchants in Singapore, QashierGM lives in QashierHQ, the web and mobile app (Android and iOS) merchants use to manage their sales, payouts, products and staff. Owners can ask it about sales, payouts and products in plain language. Merchants on the Qashier plan also get Crew, a new team chat where staff can bring QashierGM into any conversation by tagging @GM. Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines follow in November.

Because QashierGM works directly from each merchant’s own transactions and settlements, it can do what a general-purpose chatbot cannot: explain, line by line, why a payout is lower than the day’s sales, or show which outlet is underperforming this week. Owners get answers grounded in their actual operations, without piecing together reports.

“Most small business owners can’t afford a general manager, so they become one after closing, going through reports at midnight,” said Christopher Choo, Co-Founder and CEO of Qashier. “QashierGM is the manager they never had. It already knows the business, takes on the routine work and never makes a change without asking. With Crew, it now works alongside the whole team, not just the owner.”

The launch follows an open beta that began in September with merchants ranging from single-outlet cafés and shops to multi-outlet chains, with F&B operators the most active. Their most common questions were about sales trends, best sellers and payouts, and with the year-end festive season approaching, many are asking QashierGM to suggest festive promotions built around their most popular items.

Jun Rong, Operations Manager of Coexist Coffee Co., likens using QashierGM to talking to his store managers, only faster. “Running a café means wearing every hat, and the numbers usually wait until after closing. QashierGM already knows our sales, payouts and menu, so I just ask. When we plan a promotion, it suggests ideas based on what our customers actually buy, and nothing changes until I confirm. It feels like having a general manager who’s been with us from day one.”

QashierGM also takes routine admin off the owner’s plate. An owner can ask it to update a price, mark an item as sold out or add a new product, and QashierGM shows a card with exactly what will change and where. Nothing goes live until the owner taps confirm. Multi-outlet operators can compare stores, spot the one underperforming and push a change to every store in one request. Store managers see and change only their own store. Owners can also set alerts in their own words, such as “alert me on any unusual refunds” or “tell me when the first staff clocks in”, and QashierGM tells them when it matters.

Crew: the whole team, with QashierGM in the conversation

Crew, included in the Qashier plan and Enterprise plans, gives a merchant’s team a work chat of its own, separate from personal messaging groups where messages get lost and former staff keep the history. Owners, managers, kitchen and floor staff get private direct messages, group chats by team or department, and announcements with read receipts. Anyone can tag @GM to check a number, update an item or send a customer an invoice with a payment link. QashierGM acts only with the permissions of the person who tagged it, sends bigger changes to whoever can approve them right in the chat, and posts an update when an invoice is paid. It only sees the conversations it is tagged into.

On a typical day, a floor staff member can mark a dish sold out, a manager can approve a price change from her phone, and an owner can send an event deposit invoice and see it paid, all in the same app. Crew and QashierGM work in all major languages used across the region, including English, Mandarin Chinese, Malay and Thai.

Connectors to third party apps such as Gmail and Google Business Profile arrive in November, extending QashierGM beyond Qashier to supplier emails, customer enquiries and Google reviews. “A good general manager handles the work wherever it lands, not just inside one system,” added Choo. “This is the first step.”

Qashier processes more than US$1 billion in annualised payment volume for over 25,000 merchants across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. The company has been profitable since December 2025 and raised US$6.125 million in Series A+ financing in June 2026. QashierGM is available now to all Qashier merchants in Singapore through QashierHQ on web, Android and iOS, at no additional cost. Crew is included in the Qashier plan and Enterprise plans. Both launch in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines in November. To learn more, visit https://qashier.com/sg/.

Hashtag: #Qashier #QashierGM

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Qashier Pte. Ltd.

Qashier is a unified merchant operating system that brings together payments, business software, embedded financial services and customer engagement tools on one platform. Operating across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines, Qashier supports more than 25,000 SMEs with an integrated ecosystem built for Southeast Asia’s digital economy. Qashier is licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore as a Major Payment Institution. Founded in Singapore in 2019, Qashier gives merchants an AI general manager, QashierGM, and a team chat, Crew, through QashierHQ.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – As Black Friday approaches, iGarden is offering a special promotion on the K70 AI Pool Cleaner, designed to make pool maintenance smarter, easier and more convenient. Priced at US$699, down from its regular price of US$1,299, the iGarden K70 offers US$600 in savings, with both complimentary gift packages included with every K70 purchase. The promotion runs through November 27, 2026, giving customers a limited-time opportunity to take advantage of the offer.

Up to 7 Hours of Floor Cleaning on a Single Charge

With up to 7 hours of floor-only cleaning on a single charge, the K70 is designed for extended cleaning sessions without frequent interruptions. It is suitable for pools up to 6 × 12 metres and offers cumulative cleaning coverage of up to 7,233 sq. ft. per charge.

For more comprehensive cleaning, the K70 can tackle floors, walls, waterlines and slopes. Its runtime varies depending on the selected cleaning mode, with up to 3.75 hours of full-coverage cleaning.

Intelligent Navigation and Multi-Surface Cleaning

The K70 combines 3D S-Path navigation with intelligent cleaning modes to help it move systematically through the pool. Designed to clean multiple surfaces, it offers flexible cleaning options for homeowners who want to spend less time managing pool maintenance and more time enjoying their pool.

A 4-litre filter basket, featuring 180-micron mesh and a 50-micron fine filter, helps capture debris during cleaning. With app control via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, users can also manage cleaning options conveniently.

Black Friday Savings and Two Complimentary Gift Packages

As part of the Black Friday promotion, every iGarden K70 purchase includes both complimentary gift packages:

Package A: Two LED floating pool lights, 1,000 iGarden VIP reward points and a three-month extended warranty.

Package B: A pool cleaner storage bag (to be shipped separately in late November), a towel, a fridge magnet set, and a pair of swimming goggles.

Shop the Black Friday Offer

Pool owners looking to upgrade their pool maintenance routine can take advantage of the iGarden K70’s Black Friday offer while stocks last. Visit iGarden’s official store for product details and the latest promotional information.

Hashtag: #TheiGardenK70AIPoolCleaner

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Integration gives global subscription businesses, from streaming to SaaS, a direct way to reach 40 million monthly active OPay users

CURITIBA, BRAZIL and LAGOS, NIGERIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 — EBANX today becomes the first global payments company to go live with OPay Direct Debit, a new solution for recurring transactions within the digital wallet of OPay, the leading digital bank in Nigeria. By offering this payment option at checkout through EBANX, global subscription businesses can now reach OPay’s 40 million monthly active users, representing one in three adults in the country.

“With one of the continent’s highest mobile penetration rates and a young, fast-growing population, Nigeria is expected to remain Africa’s largest and most strategic digital market over the next decade,” said Eduardo de Abreu, Chief Product Officer (CPO) of EBANX. “Being the first global payments company to go live with recurring payments through OPay is a testament to the access EBANX has built in emerging markets.”

Nigeria is Africa’s largest e-commerce market, valued at USD 30 billion, according to World Data Lab (WDL) data analyzed by EBANX, and is expected to grow further, with the country projected to add 32 million new consumers to the consumer class by 2036.

In Nigeria, credit card ownership stands at just 5% among adults, while mobile phone penetration reaches 84%, according to the World Bank. “This difference creates a significant opportunity for global merchants to expand recurring payment coverage beyond traditional card-on-file models,” stated Abreu.

According to WDL, 95% of all online spend in Nigeria already comes from consumers without a credit card, a share expected to remain nearly unchanged for the next 10 years.

Digital wallets and bank transfers are Nigerians’ preferred way to pay, together accounting for 65% of the country’s e-commerce volume, according to Payment and Commerce Market Intelligence (PCMI) data analyzed by EBANX.

OPay lets Nigerian consumers make purchases through its digital wallet and bank transfers, as well as set up recurring payments. For these transactions, users make a one-time authorization directly in the app, enabling global merchants to collect future subscription charges without requiring customers to be present or re-enter payment details for every transaction.

“Our partnership with EBANX isn’t just processing transactions; it’s shaping the future of digital payments across the region,” said Elizabeth Wang, Chief Commercial Officer, OPay. “This will give Nigerians an easy, fast and convenient way to pay for the global digital services they love, from streaming platforms to online tools. With OPay Direct Debit, customers can enjoy a simple payment experience while staying in control of their subscriptions,” added Wang.

Scaling subscriptions in Africa and beyond

The announcement follows a similar EBANX initiative in South Africa, where Canva became the first international company to offer recurring payments through Capitec Pay’s account-to-account solution. With the integration, the SaaS merchant expanded subscription access for South African consumers via their bank accounts. EBANX’s integration of OPay Direct Debit extends this same alternative recurring strategy to Nigeria.

“Nigeria is the latest proof point on how EBANX scales operationally across emerging markets, not by replicating a single playbook, but by building the right integration for each local market,” said Marin Mignot, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of EBANX.

“The gap between how people actually pay and the payment methods merchants have historically supported is exactly where we see the most room to grow, and OPay Direct Debit is one more example of building that bridge for global merchants,” noted Mignot.

The launches in Nigeria and South Africa are also part of a broader global push. Including these two countries, EBANX offers recurring alternative payment solutions in 13 emerging markets across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, enabling global merchants to potentially reach more than 1 billion consumers* who rely on local payment methods such as digital wallets and account-to-account transfers.

*1.116 billion people use alternative payment methods (APMs) across the following 13 emerging markets, based on data from the operators of the most used APMs in each country and Statista: Nigeria (OPay), South Africa (Capitec Pay),Brazil (Pix), India (UPI), Colombia (Nequi), Peru (Yape), the Philippines (GCash), Indonesia (DANA), Malaysia (TrueMoney), Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay (Mercado Pago).

Hashtag: #EBANX #OPay #Fintech #Payments #Africa #Nigeria

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ABOUT EBANX

EBANX is the leading technology company connecting global businesses to the world’s fastest-growing digital markets. Founded in 2012 in Brazil, EBANX was built with a mission to expand access to international digital commerce. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep market expertise, and robust infrastructure, the platform enables global businesses to offer hundreds of local payment methods and streamline cross-border payments across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. With a global footprint, it established a technology and regulatory headquarters in Singapore in 2026. More than just payments, EBANX drives growth, enhances sales, and delivers seamless purchase experiences for businesses and end users alike.

For further information, please visit:

Website: https://www.ebanx.com/en/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx

ABOUT OPAY

Launched in Nigeria in 2018, OPay is a leading digital bank serving tens of millions of consumers and millions of businesses. OPay connects people outside the traditional banking system to payments, transfers, savings, and smart business solutions that make everyday financial transactions simpler, safer, and more accessible. OPay aspires to serve billions of users and millions of merchants worldwide in the coming decades, while generating both jobs and economic opportunity.

For further information, please visit:

Website: https://www.opay.ltd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opay/

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – The New Asia Forum (NAF) 2026 aims to mobilize US$30 billion in investment across the New Asia region by strengthening strategic partnerships and accelerating investment execution. Held under the patronage of President Prabowo Subianto, with Danantara Indonesia as a founding partner, the forum will take place on 3–4 December 2026 in Bali, Indonesia.

NAF 2026 is designed as an action-oriented platform connecting global investors, industry leaders, and policymakers to advance investment opportunities across strategic sectors. Moving beyond conventional economic dialogue, the forum seeks to translate investment interest into concrete commitments, financing structures, and measurable outcomes.

Pahala Nugraha Mansury, Managing Director of Global Relations & Communications at Danantara Indonesia, emphasized Asia’s growing potential to attract long-term global capital amid shifting economic and geopolitical dynamics.

“Our focus is on encouraging long-term capital to recognize the many investment opportunities across Asian countries, because this is precisely where the center of gravity for growth lies. This will enable growth at scale, anchored by ASEAN and driven by Indonesia as the largest country in ASEAN,” said Pahala.

The Asia-Pacific region currently accounts for nearly 60% of global economic growth. However, long-term international capital allocation to the region remains below its potential, presenting significant opportunities for greater investment collaboration.

NAF 2026 expects to convene more than 1,000 global leaders, feature over 100 speakers, and host more than 40 sessions involving sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, development finance institutions, multinational corporations, and government representatives. Notable speakers include President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia; Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group; Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan; Kathleen Quirk, Chief Executive Officer of Freeport-McMoRan; Matteo Renzi, former Prime Minister of Italy; and Israfil Mammadov, Chief Executive Officer of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The forum will follow a two-day structure: Discovery & Diligence on 3 December, focusing on investment opportunities, feasibility, and transaction structures; and Action & Execution on 4 December, advancing capital commitments, strategic partnerships, and implementation milestones.

Eight priority sectors will anchor the discussions: strategic resources and downstreaming; energy and power; advanced mobility and manufacturing; digital infrastructure and AI; food and agribusiness; trade and connectivity; tourism and creative economy; and education and human capital.

As a founding partner, Danantara Indonesia will participate as a co-investor alongside global partners, supporting investment in strategic sectors and reinforcing Indonesia’s role in regional economic transformation.

Through its transaction-focused approach, NAF 2026 aims to deliver preliminary investment agreements, bankable financing structures, and clearly defined implementation milestones. Investment commitments and progress will be tracked across subsequent editions to promote accountability, continuity, and tangible economic impact for Indonesia and the wider region.

Hashtag: #NewAsiaForum2026

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – Finance leaders and representatives of international organisations attended the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Finance Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) 2026, successfully held in Hong Kong for the first time (October 20-21). Participants engaged in in-depth exchanges on issues concerning regional financial and economic development.

Yesterday (October 21), the FMM issued the 2026 APEC Finance Ministers’ Joint Statement, reaffirming the commitment to building an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040 for the prosperity of all our people and future generations.

Minister of Finance and chair of the 2026 FMM, Lan Fo’an, said that all parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, uphold multilateralism, and deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial affairs, with a view to contributing to regional economic and financial stability and long-term sustainable growth.

Earlier, John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, welcomed participants to the FMM.

“This is a historic occasion for Hong Kong. The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting – part of APEC China 2026 – is taking place in our city for the very first time. We are honoured to support this significant international event, which brings together the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, representing some three billion people and accounting for over 60 per cent of global GDP,” Mr Lee said.

“Under the unique ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country, and have a legal and regulatory regime similar to most of the world’s top financial hubs.”

Speaking during the discussion sessions, Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, said that amid geopolitical tensions and uncertainties over trade policies, Asia-Pacific economies should strengthen co-operation to maintain the smooth flow of trade and investment, while guarding against financial risks and nurturing long-term growth drivers.

He said that Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, and make full use of its diverse financing channels and professional services as an international financial centre to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”.

“Regionally, we need open channels for trade and investment, not new barriers. Connected markets allow capital to reach productive uses and technologies be adopted across borders,” Mr Chan said during a plenary session on Global and Regional Economic and Financial Outlook (October 20).

“Our collective task is to safeguard stability while strengthening the foundations for lasting prosperity. Hong Kong, China stands ready to work with fellow economies to seize opportunities, manage risks and support more resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth across the Asia Pacific.”

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) held two thematic seminars (October 20) on “Fostering a digitalised, inclusive and sustainable supply chain ecosystem through finance” and “Mobilising capital for nature: scaling finance and regional cooperation across APEC” respectively.

In his welcoming remarks at the seminars, Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, said: “In an era of profound economic transformation and evolving global challenges, prosperity will not be secured by any economy acting alone. It will be built through partnership, innovation and resilience. I am therefore delighted that this seminar brings together regulators, business leaders and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region for meaningful exchanges on how we can unlock new opportunities, strengthen financial resilience, and drive sustainable growth for all.”

Following the conclusion of the FMM, Mr Lee and other officials met Mr Lan at Government House to exchange views on economic and financial development of the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong. Mr Lee expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the country for its trust in and support for Hong Kong, as well as its strong affirmation of Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.

During the FMM, a diverse range of tours and visits were arranged for members of delegations from participating economies and international organisations to enjoy the city’s cultural heritage and unique charm as an international metropolis.

The itineraries included visits to the Peak, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Palace Museum, Xiqu Centre, Chinese Culinary Institute and Ocean Park as well as a boat tour to enjoy the renowned views of Victoria Harbour.

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #APEC #FMM

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• Drill hole 26F-01, the first hole of the 2026 drill program, returned 400 m at 0.53 g/t Au from a depth of 15 m, including 50 m at 1.07 g/t Au from 236 m.
• The two highest-grade individual samples returned 11.5 g/t Au over 1 m from 248 m and 10.4 g/t Au over 1 m from 284 m.
• Drill hole 26F-01 also intersected three additional gold intervals: 32 m at 0.23 g/t Au from 425 m; 50 m at 0.27 g/t Au from 476 m; and 39 m at 0.22 g/t Au from 548 m.
• These three deeper intervals indicate gold mineralization at depths not previously tested by historical drilling.

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 22, 2026) – Gold Strike Resources Corp. (TSXV: GSR) (OTC Pink: GDSRF) (“Gold Strike” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce assay results from the first hole of its 11-hole 2026 drill program at its 100%-owned, road-accessible Florin Gold Project (“Florin”) in Canada’s Yukon Territory (Figure 1).

Drill hole 26F-01, drilled along the long axis of the resource footprint, returned 400 m at 0.53 g/t Au from 15 m to 415 m, including 50 m at 1.07 g/t Au from 236m to 286m (Table 1). Figure 2 shows the drill hole in plan view, and Figure 3 presents a longitudinal section.

“We are pleased to report the first assay results from our 2026 drill program at Florin,” said Peter Miles, CEO of Gold Strike. “These results are encouraging and support the continuity of gold mineralization within the existing resource footprint and indicate additional mineralization at depth. With assays pending from ten additional drill holes, we look forward to updating shareholders as we assess the project’s broader potential.”

The 2026 drill program comprised 11 holes and was designed with guidance from Ron Simpson, the co-author of the Company’s technical report.¹ Seven holes were designed to further define or expand the resource footprint, subject to assay results and an updated mineral resource estimate. The remaining four holes tested exploration targets: three west and one east of the resource footprint.

Table 1: Assay results for drill hole 26F-01

Drill Hole	Azimuth	Dip	From	To	Length*	Au g/t
26F-01	1200	-45o	15m	415m	400m	0.53
Including			236m	286m	50m	1.07
			425m	457m	32m	0.23
			476m	526m	50m	0.27
Total Depth	588.6m		548m	587m	39m	0.22

*Notes for Table 1: Length describes the down hole length; there has been insufficient drilling to determine the true width. The NAD83 Zone 8 UTM co-ordinates for this drill hole are N 7094033.5 and E 413659.7, surveyed using RTK GPS (Stonex) with a DNSS correction. The Azimuth and dip were orientated using an iMDEX rig aligner, only the starting angles are given here, a gyro-based Reflex reading was also taken approximately every 50m, down hole.

Figure 1: Regional map of the Tombstone Gold Belt showing the location of Gold Strike’s Yukon properties including the Florin project.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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Figure 2: Plan view of historical and current drill holes at the Florin Gold Project, showing gold assay results. The 2026 drill hole traces are shown in black, and historical drill hole traces are shown in white. Drill hole 26F-01 is highlighted, with assay results colour-coded according to the legend.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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Figure 3: Long section along the 120 degree azimuth of drill hole 26F-01. Note the 400m interval extends the gold zone identified by historical drilling near surface, both deeper and to the east.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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Quality Assurance/Quality Control

Core from the drill rig was helicoptered to a laydown area on Big Creek. It was received each morning by company geologists, quick logged, checked for the meterage and then packed, securely strapped on to pallets for truck transport to the core logging facility in Whitehorse. Here the HQ/NQ diameter drill core was systematically logged for geological attributes, photographed and sampled using a diamond saw to halve the core, the samples cut-lengthwise, along a predetermined line, with the same half consistently being collected for analysis. The other half is stored for record at Whitehorse. A 1m sample length was used. Standard reference materials, blanks and duplicate samples were inserted by Gold Strike personnel at regular intervals into the sample stream, nominally at least one of each for each lab batch, every 35 samples. Bagged samples were placed in ore bags sealed with numbered tags and transported to Activation Laboratories Ltd.’s (“Actlabs”) Kamloops laboratory where the samples were processed. Actlabs notified Gold Strike of receipt and all samples arrived with the security tag intact.

Actlabs is accredited to ISO 17025:2017 SCC for its mineral laboratory analysis and is independent of the Company.

Samples were crushed to over 70 per cent passing below two millimetres and split using a riffle splitter. One-thousand-gram splits were pulverized to over 85 per cent passing below 75 microns. Gold determinations are by fire assay with an atomic (AA) finish on 50 g sub-samples of the prepared pulp (Actlab code: 1A2B-50). Any sample returning over 10 g/t gold was re-analyzed by fire assay with a gravimetric finish on a 50 g sub-sample. In addition, a 49-element analysis was performed on a 0.5 g subsample of the prepared pulps by a four acid digestion followed by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-OES or ICP-MS) finish (Actlab code: UT-6M (2026)).

Technical Information

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by David Kelsch, P.Geo., a consultant to the Company, who has verified the data underlying such information. Mr. Kelsch is a Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About the Company

Gold Strike Resources Corp. is a mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing high-potential gold opportunities within its prospective land package in the proven, but underexplored Tombstone Gold Belt, Yukon. The Company holds a 100% interest in its five core Yukon properties: the Florin Project, the FLR Gold Project, the RJ Gold Project, Gold Strike One Project, and Gold Strike Two Project, which together represent a district-scale land package totalling approximately 400 sq km. With an award-winning technical team and experienced management and board of directors, Gold Strike is well positioned to leverage past exploration successes to create shareholder value.

(signed) “Peter Miles”
Peter Miles
Chief Executive Officer

For additional information on the Company, please contact Mr. Peter Miles, Chief Executive Officer at (604) 408-6680 or email investor@goldstrikeresourcescorp.com.

To be added to the email distribution list, please visit our website at www.goldstrikeresourcescorp.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Adjacent, Nearby or Geologically Similar Properties

Mineralization hosted on adjacent, nearby or geologically similar properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company’s properties.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is identified by words such as “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “expect”, “estimate”, “objective”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “should”, “predict”, “potential”, “intend”, “goal”, “designed to”, and similar expressions.

Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company cannot give any assurance that it will prove correct. Since forward-looking information addresses future events and conditions, it involves inherent assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of assumptions, factors and risks. These assumptions and risks include, but are not limited to, assumptions and risks associated with mineral exploration generally and results from anticipated and proposed exploration programs, conditions in the equity financing markets, and assumptions and risks regarding receipt of further regulatory and First Nation approvals. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation: the receipt, analysis and reporting of assay data; the release of drill assays, geophysical interpretations and field results; expectations regarding the potential for gold mineralization; the Company’s plans to prepare an updated mineral resource estimate; and the Company’s plans to report assay results from the remaining holes of the 2026 drill program as they become available. Exploration activities in Yukon are subject to seasonal access constraints, engagement with local communities and Indigenous rights holders, availability of financing, and the inherent uncertainties of mineral exploration, including the risk that drill results do not confirm grade continuity or resource expansion potential. Risks specific to the foregoing include laboratory capacity constraints affecting assay turnaround, delays in processing and interpreting airborne geophysical data, adverse weather or access conditions, the failure of exploration programs to identify economic mineralization.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof. Other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, results, or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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¹ The technical report was prepared by GeoSim Services Inc. (Ronald G. Simpson, P.Geo.) and David Kelsch, P.Geo., with an effective date of December 5, 2025. Florin hosts a pit-constrained inferred mineral resource of 2.507 million ounces of gold (162.7 million tonnes grading 0.48 grams per tonne (“g/t”) gold (“Au”) at a 0.30 g/t Au cut-off) that remains open in all directions and at depth. For further details, see the “Florin Gold Project NI 43-101 Technical Report, Mayo and Dawson Mining Districts, Yukon Territory”, filed on April 13, 2026 on SEDAR+ under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca, and the Company’s news release dated March 3, 2026.

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

Production-grade in-app messaging with no credit card required to start, plus an optional Cloud Bonus offering your choice of either 15% off AWS or 30% off Alibaba Cloud

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – Nexconn, a global cloud communications platform, announced the launch of its production-ready Free Chat Plan. Under the new initiative, developers and startups can deploy enterprise-grade chat infrastructure for up to 10,000 monthly active users (MAU) completely free—with full Chat Pro features enabled and no credit card required.

The launch tackles a persistent industry pain point: typical free tiers across the category cap at 100 to 1,000 MAU and restrict apps to sandbox environments—thresholds far too low to validate user retention or viral growth.

“A free tier should empower teams to validate their business model, not just verify that an SDK compiles,” said Will Song, Head of Global Business at Nexconn.

To further extend startup runway, Nexconn also introduced an additional Cloud Bonus: teams that link a payment method can choose between 15% off AWS or 30% off Alibaba Cloud to offset their backend cloud costs.

The offer is open to teams that simply send their first in-app message by December 31, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Singapore Time (SGT, UTC+8), locking in up to 10,000 MAU of Pro chat (valued at $860/month). Developers can claim the plan and view full details at https://www.nexconn.ai/free-chat-api?utm_source=pr.

What the Free Chat Plan Includes

The plan provides comprehensive capabilities across the entire application lifecycle:

Rich Messaging Architecture: Unlimited messages across direct (1-on-1), group, community, and open channels.

Modern Social Interactions: Read receipts, typing indicators, user mentions, unread badges, and cross-platform multi-device synchronization.

Native Push: Built-in multi-channel mobile push gateway included with no add-on fees.

High-Capacity Resource Quotas: Supports up to 500 peak concurrent connections, 10 GB of cloud storage, and 180 days of searchable message history.

No-charge Migration Support: End-to-end data migration support for teams transitioning from Sendbird, Stream, CometChat, PubNub, Agora, or Twilio.

Developer Acceleration: An open-source AI Integration Skill allows developers to generate client SDK code and backend token endpoints via simple text prompts.

The Cloud Bonus: The 10,000 MAU Chat plan remains free and does not require a credit card. Teams may optionally link a payment method to activate the Cloud Bonus—15% off AWS services or 30% off Alibaba Cloud services.

How to Get Started

Sign Up: Create an account in the Nexconn Console.

Build: Integrate the SDK manually or with the open-source AI Skill.

Activate Your Free Plan: Complete enrollment by simply sending at least one message before December 31, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Singapore Time (SGT, UTC+8).

(Optional) Cloud Discounts: Link a payment method to activate your choice of 15% off AWS services or 30% off Alibaba Cloud services.

Hashtag: #Nexconn #FreeChatPlan #InAppMessaging

https://www.nexconn.ai

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

About Nexconn

Nexconn is a global cloud communications platform engineered for developers, high-growth startups, and enterprises building real-time, mission-critical digital experiences.

The company delivers a unified real-time portfolio tailored to global scale:

AICP (AI Communication Platform): High-performance Chat and Call (voice/video) APIs, combined with production-ready, scenario-specific AI Agents (such as Smart Office and Social Marketing). This unified platform allows businesses to seamlessly embed intelligent, context-aware communications into any web or mobile application.

Enterprise & Public Sector Deployments: Carrier-grade private cloud and on-premises solutions engineered for organizations and government bodies requiring strict data residency, privacy, and compliance.

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – Vietnam Airlines will launch daily nonstop flights between Da Nang and Singapore on November 17, 2026, increasing its total service between Vietnam and Singapore to 42 round-trip flights per week.

The new route will be operated by Airbus A321 aircraft. Flights from Da Nang will depart at 3:00 p.m., with return flights from Singapore departing at 7:45 p.m. local time.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates 14 round-trip flights per week between Hanoi and Singapore and 21 between Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore.

Singapore is an important source market for international visitors to Vietnam. In the first nine months of 2026, arrivals from Singapore increased by 29.8% year on year, highlighting the growing potential for travel between the two countries.

With its dramatic natural landscapes, pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, Da Nang is a compelling destination for Singaporean travellers. Highlights include Son Tra Peninsula, the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills, while the city also provides convenient access to renowned cultural sites across Central Vietnam, including Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary and the former imperial capital of Hue.

Beyond leisure travel, Da Nang is emerging as a destination for business and investment, supported by its established resort infrastructure, capacity to host major events and the development of the Vietnam International Financial Center. The new nonstop service will provide a more convenient travel option for both leisure and business travellers, strengthening links between Central Vietnam and Singapore, a major regional hub for tourism and commerce.

Nguyen Quang Trung, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, said: “Da Nang offers a distinctive combination of natural beauty, coastal experiences and cultural heritage, making it an attractive gateway to Central Vietnam. With the launch of this nonstop service, we aim to make travel between Singapore and the region more convenient, creating greater opportunities for visitors to discover Central Vietnam.”

The new route forms part of Vietnam Airlines’ broader international network expansion in 2026. The airline has introduced new services to Amsterdam, Colombo and Phuket, and is preparing to launch nonstop flights between Hanoi and Ahmedabad on November 3, followed by Hanoi and Hangzhou on November 22.

By expanding services in markets with strong potential for tourism, trade and investment, Vietnam Airlines is strengthening Vietnam’s international connectivity and creating more opportunities for travel and business.

As Vietnam’s national flag carrier, Vietnam Airlines continues to work with government agencies, local authorities and business partners to improve international access, stimulate tourism and facilitate trade and investment. Through the strategic development of its international network, the airline aims to contribute to Vietnam’s broader economic ambitions, including the national target of achieving double-digit economic growth in 2026.

Hashtag: #VietnamAirlines

https://www.vietnamairlines.com

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

HA NOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – Vietnam Airlines has become the first Asian airline to receive the World’s Best Culinary Airline 2026 award at the World Culinary Awards, earning recognition ahead of leading international carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air France, Cathay Pacific and Turkish Airlines.

An annual global awards programme affiliated with the World Travel Awards, the World Culinary Awards celebrates excellence and innovation across the culinary industry.

The accolade recognises Vietnam Airlines’ continued investment in its inflight dining experience as part of its ambition to achieve five star service standards by 2030. Drawing on Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage and locally sourced ingredients, the airline’s menus bring together regional specialities, contemporary cooking techniques and thoughtful presentation. Dishes are tailored to individual routes and cabin classes, taking into account passenger preferences and the unique demands of dining at altitude.

From Pho and Hue style beef noodle soup to Quang style noodles and Banh Mi Hoi An, iconic Vietnamese dishes feature prominently on Vietnam Airlines’ menus. Each dish is carefully crafted to retain its authentic flavours, taking into account how changes in taste perception at altitude can affect the inflight dining experience. Vietnam Airlines also works closely with its catering partners and cabin crew to ensure consistent food quality, serving temperatures and presentation across its flights.

Beyond its signature dishes, Vietnam Airlines showcases the country’s agricultural diversity through locally grown produce. Seasonal ingredients include strawberries and plums from Son La, lychees from Luc Ngan, egg lychees and longan from Hung Yen, macadamia nuts from Dien Bien, cashews from Dong Nai, and dragon fruit and melons from Lam Dong. The selection varies according to seasonal availability and inflight catering requirements.

In the first nine months of 2026, Vietnam Airlines and its affiliated catering companies used a total of 2,260 tonnes of domestically grown fruits and vegetables, supporting local producers and bringing the flavours of Vietnam to passengers on board.

The airline also works with local authorities to share the stories behind these ingredients and the communities that produce them. Through Heritage magazine, inflight entertainment and other communication channels, passengers can discover the origins of the food served on board and the regional traditions behind each speciality.

Dang Anh Tuan, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, said: “This award is a proud milestone for Vietnam Airlines and a testament to our commitment to delivering an exceptional inflight dining experience. It also underscores the international appeal of Vietnamese cuisine and its potential to connect travellers with our country’s cultural identity. As Vietnam’s national flag carrier, we see every journey as an opportunity to share the richness of our culinary heritage, the diversity of our regional produce and the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality. As we work towards achieving five-star service standards by 2030, we remain focused on meeting the highest international standards while preserving the distinctive Vietnamese character that sets our service apart. Ultimately, we want every meal on board to be a memorable part of the journey and a reason for passengers to fly with us again.”

Beyond inflight dining, Vietnam Airlines incorporates Vietnamese cultural elements throughout the passenger journey, from airport services and Lotus lounges to its onboard products and services. The golden lotus in its brand identity, flight attendants’ traditional ao dai uniforms and the Lac bird motif on its aircraft all reflect the country’s heritage. Vietnamese cuisine adds another dimension to this cultural experience, introducing international passengers to the country’s regional flavours and culinary traditions.

Through these efforts, Vietnam Airlines continues to promote Vietnam’s cultural heritage and share its distinctive identity with the world as the country’s national flag carrier.

Hashtag: #VietnamAirlines

http://www.vietnamairlines.com/

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