Category: What’s News Asia

YIWU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2026 – As red lanterns light up the streets and alleys, Yiwu is welcoming spring in a unique way. For the international community living here, the city has transformed from a foreign commercial hub into a warm “hometown.”

This year, three expatriates shared their unique Chinese New Year experiences in Yiwu.

For Lina from Ukraine, the festival is a visual feast of “Chinese Red.” Having lived in Yiwu for five years, she immerses herself in local traditions, shopping for “Get-Rich Horse” dolls for the upcoming Year of the Horse and buying traditional red outfits to take back to her home country.

For He Lvsheng, the holiday offers a chance to find a comfortable rhythm. While he notes that the New Year isn’t celebrated with the same intensity in his home country, in Yiwu, he enjoys the festive atmosphere by buying food and toys for friends while maintaining his daily fitness routine.

For foreign businessman Weihua, the Spring Festival is about unity. He celebrates by pasting spring couplets with his Chinese employees and handing out “Hongbao” (red envelopes), turning business partners into family.

From the scent of ink on couplets to the shared joy of the holidays, Yiwu’s inclusive environment allows entrepreneurs and residents from around the world to strive, live, and turn a foreign land into home.

Hashtag: #Yiwu

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Gathering Global Experts Delivering Insights from the forefront of Space Science and Sustainability

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 February 2026 – In a landmark development for the region’s scientific community, Hong Kong has been selected to host the Asia-Pacific Regional IAU Meeting (APRIM) for the first time. Dubbed the “The Olympics of Astrophysics and Space Science,” this prestigious event will take place from May 4 to 8, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).

Organised by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and hosted by The University of Hong Kong’s Laboratory for Space Research (LSR), the conference will feature Nobel and Shaw laureates, together with other distinguished scientists from around the world. As a leading astronomical gathering in the Asia-Pacific, the event represents a significant milestone for Hong Kong, underscoring its pivotal role in fundamental research, STEM education, and international collaboration.

A Convergence of Minds in a Burgeoning Space Hub

Professor Quentin Parker, Chair of the APRIM2026 and Director of the HKU Laboratory for Space Research, noted that bringing the “The Olympics of Astrophysics and Space Science” to Hong Kong demonstrates the city’s capacity to serve as a global nexus for astrophysics and space science.

“As Chair of this historic meeting, I am honoured to welcome the global Astrophysics and Space Science community to Hong Kong. We aim to use this platform not only to showcase our city’s capabilities in the ‘New Space’ era but to inspire the next generation of scientists to pursue the unknown,” said Prof. Parker.

Professor Xue Suijian, former Deputy Director of the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, attributed the IAU’s decision to Hong Kong’s highly international environment and academic excellence. He highlighted the city’s growing contributions to deep-space exploration, planetary science, and big data analysis, cementing its role as a bridge for international scientific exchange.

Bridging Fundamental Research and Future Possibilities

While rooted in academic rigour, APRIM 2026 also addresses the paradigm shift from government-led initiatives to the democratised era of “New Space.” The conference offers a platform that links theoretical astrophysics with real-world applications.

Aligning with the global scientific agenda, the conference is expected to bring together nearly 1,000 experts. Discussions will span from the origins of the universe to emerging directions in space exploration, covering key areas such as Planetary Science, Stellar Evolution, and Cosmology. The event will also seek to bridge academia and industry, exploring how frontier technologies can contribute to addressing global challenges.

Championing Space Sustainability

A defining feature of APRIM2026 is its focus on “Space Sustainability.” With the growing density of satellite constellations in low Earth orbit, the scientific community faces urgent challenges, particularly in relation to space debris and light pollution.

Through dedicated sessions and public engagement, the conference will tackle these critical issues, advocating for responsible stewardship of the cosmic environment. By integrating these discussions with outreach sessions including youth-focused workshops, the event aims to cultivate a scientifically literate generation ready to steward the future of space exploration.

Professor Luis C. Ho, Director of the Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Peking University, described the meeting as a vital platform for strengthening Asia-Pacific research collaboration. He noted that the event marks a shift from pure fundamental research to industrial application, allowing high-tech solutions to serve the public and open the “blue ocean” of the space economy.

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

About the Organisations

International Astronomical Union (IAU) The IAU brings together over 13,000 professional astronomers from more than 85 countries. Its mission is to promote and safeguard the science of astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation. For more information, please see the following link.: https://iau.org

HKU Laboratory for Space Research (LSR) is an interdisciplinary center at The University of Hong Kong dedicated to advancing space science, planetary research, and high-energy astrophysics through satellite research and academic collaboration. For more information, please see the following link.: https://www.lsr.hku.hk

Diamond Sponsor

• The Shaw Prize

Gold Sponsor

• Center for Space Utilization, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CSU)

Bronze Sponsor

• Hong Kong (International) Aerospace Charitable Foundation

Organisers

• Laboratory for Space Research of the University of Hong Kong (LSR)
• International Astronomical Union (IAU)

Official PR

• MEMO PLUS PR & CONSULTANTS

Supporting Organisations

• Feilong Aerospace Technology Ltd
• Orion Astropreneur Space Academy (OASA)
• Hong Kong Tourism Board
• Purple Mountain Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences
• The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
• Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Peking University (KIAA-PKU)
• Satcom Industry Association (SIA-India)
• National Astronomical Observatories, Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC)
• International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR)
• International Space Centre at the University of Western Australia (ISC)
• Hong Kong Laureate Forum
• Our Hong Kong Foundation
• National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS)
• National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ)
• Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences
• Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics (ASIAA)
• Three Country Trusted Broker (TCTB)
• United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

匯聚全球學術領袖 領航打造亞太太空樞紐

香港 – Media OutReach Newswire – 2026年2月16日 – 被譽為「天文界奧林匹克」的亞太區天文學大會（APRIM）將於2026年5月4日至8日首次在香港舉行，會議地點為香港會議展覽中心。本屆大會由國際天文學聯合會（IAU）主辦、香港大學太空研究實驗室（LSR）承辦，屆時世界各地的天文學者與科研人員雲集香江，交流最新研究成果。作為亞太區最具影響力的天文學術權威會議，APRIM今次選址香港，不僅印證了國際學術界對本港科研實力的認同，更標誌著香港正式領航亞太天文科研發展，有利本港深化STEM教育、推動跨界科研合作，是構建香港作為亞太區太空樞紐的關鍵里程碑。

香港打造亞太太空樞紐 科研實力獲國際權威認可

亞太區天文學大會主席及香港大學太空研究實驗室（HKU Laboratory for Space Research）總監柏坤霆教授（Prof. Quentin Parker）表示，能夠將這場「天文界奧林匹克」首次帶到香港，證明本港不僅是國際金融中心，在太空科學領域同樣具備成為全球樞紐的條件。他表示：「我們希望透過這次大會激發本地年輕人投身STEM領域，同時向國際社會展現香港在太空經濟新時代的發展機遇。」

前中國科學院國家天文台副台長薛隨建教授分析，香港獲國際天文學聯合會選定為主辦城市，關鍵在於本港高度國際化的環境及穩健的經濟基礎。他指出，香港在深空探測、行星科學及大數據分析等範疇表現突出，加上長期擔當國際科研交流的橋樑，正是聯合會決定在港舉辦會議的原因。

從「舊太空」邁向「新太空」連結基礎研究與未來可能

APRIM2026不僅是一個學術交流平台，更是連接基礎科學與實際應用的橋樑。隨著全球航天產業由政府主導轉向商業化與普及化的「新太空」時代，大會將探討如何將前沿的天體物理學理論，轉化為造福人類的實際應用。

大會預計將匯聚近千名專家，議題橫跨行星科學、恆星演化及宇宙學等核心領域。除了探討宇宙起源等議題，亦將聚焦行星科學、恆星演化與宇宙學等，探討這些前沿技術如何為應對全球挑戰。

倡導「太空可持續發展」

APRIM2026將以香港為主場，匯聚亞太及全球天文學界代表，議題涵蓋行星科學、恆星演化、星系動力學、宇宙學及觀測天文學等多元議題；面對日益擁擠的近地軌道（LEO），「太空可持續發展」（Space Sustainability）成為本屆大會的焦點議題。與會科學家將深入探討太空碎片（Space Debris）治理、光害污染及衛星頻譜干擾等迫切挑戰。

透過一系列專題研討及公眾工作坊，大會致力於在學術界及公眾之間建立對話，倡導負責任的太空探索精神，確保人類能永續地利用外太空資源，更期望能啟迪年輕一代對宇宙探索的志趣，為香港未來的創科發展培育更多生力軍。

北京大學科維理天文與天體物理研究所所長何子山教授（Prof. Luis C. Ho）形容大會為凝聚亞太科研力量的重要平台，向世界展示亞洲太空科研實力，從基礎研究邁向產業應用，開拓太空新潛力。

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關於各機構

國際天文學聯合會
國際天文學聯合會（IAU）匯聚來自 85 個國家的超過 13,000 名專業天文學家。其使命是透過國際合作，促進及保障天文學科學的各方面發展。欲了解更多資訊，請參看以下連結：https://iau.org

香港大學太空研究實驗室
香港大學太空研究實驗室（LSR）是香港大學的一個跨學科中心，致力於透過衛星研究及學術合作，推進太空科學、行星研究及高能天體物理學。欲了解更多資訊，請參看以下網址：https://www.lsr.hku.hk

鑽石贊助
邵逸夫獎

金贊助
中國科學院空間應用工程與技術中心

銅贊助
香港（國際）航天慈善基金會

主辦機構
香港大學 太空研究實驗室
國際天文學聯合會

大會公關
MEMO PLUS PR & CONSULTANTS

支持機構
飛龍太空科技有限公司
創星匯
香港旅遊發展局
中國科學院紫金山天文台
香港大學
北京大學科維理天文與天體物理研究所
印度衛星通信業協會
中國科學院國家天文台
國際射電天文學研究中心
西澳大學 國際太空中心
* 香港桂冠論壇
團結香港基金
自然科學研究機構
日本國立天文台
中國科學院香港創新研究院
中央研究院天文及天文物理研究所
Three Country Trusted Broker
聯合國外層空間事務廳

Showcasing Spectacular Entertainment and Chinese Cultural Performances, Featuring Renowned Chinese Artist “Zhu Zhengting” to Bless the People of Thailand in the Heart of the City

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 February 2026 – Siam Paragon, Thailand’s premier global landmark and the top destination in the hearts of Thai people and international tourists, has partnered with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Kasikornbank, ushers in a grand celebration for the Year of the Horse. The event “Siam Paragon A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026,” bringing an array of rare cultural performances from China to offer a magnificent experience in the heart of Bangkok, The celebration also features special performances by leading Thai artists and an exclusive appearance from Chinese superstar “Zhu Zhengting,” who flew in to deliver New Year blessings to Thai fans at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon.

The Grand Opening Ceremony, held on 14 February 2026, was honored by the presence of Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside Mr. Han Zhiqiang, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand, who both joined in delivering Chinese New Year blessings. Also in attendance were Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT); Chadatip Chutrakul, Chief Executive Officer of Siam Piwat Group; and Mayuree Chaipromprasith, President of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., all gathered amidst a grand and festive atmosphere. The event captivated the audience with special performances, including “Chinese New Year Welcome Dance” from China and the “Siam Noble Steed Dance” from Thailand, symbolizing the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. The celebration also featured rare and exquisite Chinese cultural showcases from four renowned troupes originating from Beijing, Chongqing, Henan, and Fujian.

The highly anticipated highlight was the appearance of renowned Chinese artist “Zhu Zhengting,” who joined the festivities to wish fans wealth, happiness, and prosperity for the year ahead, while delivering a special performance as a New Year gift. Additionally, the celebration featured mini-concerts by leading Thai T-Pop artists, including Better Weather and Daou Pittaya, who brought joy and left a lasting impression amidst the spectacular sight of giant auspicious lanterns illuminating the entire of Parc Paragon.

The grand celebration of “Siam Paragon A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026″ presents a magnificent parade of entertainment to deliver joy and prosperity for the Year
of the Horse, running from today until 18 February 2026. In addition to the spectacular colors of giant auspicious lanterns and exquisite cultural performances from the People’s Republic of China, there are concerts from leading Thai artists performing on a rotating schedule to provide non-stop fun at Parc Paragon and Fashion Hall.

The lineup includes:

1. 15 February 2026: Enjoy performances by HERS and MEAN Band;
2. 16 February 2026: Meet 2Ectasy, Jeffy, Kakagoesbackhome, and Slapkiss;
3. 17 February 2026: Have fun with SERIOUS BACON and Klear;
4. 18 February 2026: Concluding with Wanyai and OABNITHI.

Simultaneously, Siam Paragon is packed with activities to enhance luck and wealth across various areas, featuring many more highlights such as:

• Be mesmerized by the art installation “The Fortune Guardians,” depicting a pair of lions in a rhythmic and lively spirit of celebration, created by Suthipa Kamyam, a renowned artist and illustrator who has collaborated with numerous international brands. She has transformed the Jewel zone and Cascade on the M Floor into an artistic landmark for the Chinese New Year, symbolizing the opening of gates to welcome positive energy, inviting luck and joy to flow in and reach all visitors.
• The Sculpture Exhibition by Ren Zhe: This exhibition features the work of the renowned Chinese sculptor, celebrated for his masterful fusion of Eastern cultural roots with a contemporary global perspective. His powerful sculptures are imbued with dynamic movement, harmoniously communicating Eastern philosophical values through modern materials. The exhibition will be on display from 5 March 2026 at the Glass Wall on the M Floor.
• NEXTOPIA, the prototype for the world of tomorrow, welcomes the Chinese New Year festival with the heartwarming concept “Let Good Things Grow: Lucky in Love, Lucky in Green.” This initiative invites everyone to share positive energy through self-care, meaningful connection with others, and sustainable growth alongside the planet. Visitors can immerse themselves in contemporary interactive activities and workshops that are engaging and accessible to all ages. We invite you to fulfill your special moments at NEXTOPIA with eco-friendly, heart-healthy menus amidst a romantic atmosphere and melodies —perfect for hanging out until midnight.
• For those seeking spiritual guidance and an opportunity to give back, the Siriwattana Cheshire Foundation under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen presents the “Siriwattana Fortune Telling for the Disabled” charity event. To welcome the Year of the Horse, the event features 40 renowned experts specializing in various disciplines. The event takes place from February 13–20, 2026, at Crystal Court, 2nd Floor (North Zone), Siam Paragon, from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Fortune-telling tickets are available at the venue for 400 THB.

Beyond the exceptional experiences offered across all zones, Siam Paragon delights shoppers with the exclusive “A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026,” promotion, running from today until 22 February 2026, featuring discounts of up to 50% at participating stores. Shoppers meeting the spending requirements can receive Siam Gift Cards and Paragon Department Store Cash Coupons with a total value of up to THB 1,700. Special privileges are also available for Kasikornbank credit cardholders, while ONESIAM members can earn 4x ONESIAM Coins upon qualifying spend, along with up to 15% credit cashback from participating credit cards, or 0% interest installments for up to 6 months on Siam Gift Card purchases.

Additionally, the special “Lucky with Love” promotion will run from today until 17 February 2026. Shoppers meeting the spending requirements can redeem Siam Gift Cards and Paragon Department Store Cash Coupons with a total value of up to THB 31,800, plus an additional bonus of up to 1,550 ONESIAM Coins when spending via ONESIAM KBank Credit Cards. Furthermore, purchases of THB 2,000 or more will be rewarded with an extra Ang Pao (containing gift vouchers or discount coupons from participating stores). For top spenders at participating luxury brands, an exceptional prize of 2 Baht weight of gold, valued at THB 149,500 (price as of 26 January 2026), will be awarded to those with a cumulative spend of THB 4 million or more.

Experience the grandeur of the Chinese New Year celebration, a spectacular and radiant start to a prosperous Year of the Horse at “Siam Paragon A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026.” Join the festivities at Siam Paragon from today until 20 February 2026. For more information, please visit Facebook: SiamParagon

Hashtag: #SiamParagon #SiamParagonCNY2026

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

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 February 2026 – Asia Coach Group Limited today announced a collaboration with local e-commerce educator Francisco Ho to launch the “10x E-Commerce System,” a new training programme. Built around a systematic e-commerce operations methodology, the course is designed for Hong Kong working professionals, full-time parents, and small-scale entrepreneurs looking to expand their career horizons beyond their primary occupation, equipping participants with end-to-end e-commerce competencies spanning product selection, store setup, traffic acquisition, and conversion.

Nearly 40% of Hongkongers Run a Side Business — E-Commerce Emerges as the New Frontier

According to a Glassdoor-Harris poll, nearly 40 per cent of Hongkongers maintain a side business to meet rising living costs. A separate Statista survey found that 64 per cent of Hong Kong e-commerce operators expect revenue growth of 10 to 20 per cent in 2026. As digital tools become more accessible and barriers to entry continue to fall, a growing number of professionals and young entrepreneurs are turning to independent branded online stores to broaden their business reach, driving a surge in demand for systematic e-commerce knowledge and hands-on operational skills.

A New Entrepreneurial Pathway for Professionals

Francisco Ho said: “More and more professionals in Hong Kong are exploring how to turn their expertise or personal interests into a sustainable brand. The appeal of e-commerce lies in its relatively low barrier to entry and its potential for scalability. You don’t need to leave your day job to build a business from the ground up. The 10x E-Commerce System is built for exactly these individuals — offering a practical, actionable framework that turns ‘I want to give it a try’ into a concrete first step.”

The programme moves beyond the conventional reliance on third-party marketplace platforms, teaching participants to establish independently branded online stores. Through data-driven product selection strategies, seasonal consumer psychology analysis, and AI-powered tools, learners are equipped to capitalise on peak holiday shopping periods.

Four Core Modules — Building a Complete E-Commerce Skill Chain

The curriculum is structured around four core modules that together form a comprehensive e-commerce skill chain. The “P.V.S. Value Bundling Method” leverages data-driven insights for precision product selection and high-margin product development. The “S-Tier Supply Chain Alliance System” establishes asset-light partnership models that reduce capital pressure and inventory risk. The “KOL Traffic Monetisation Engine” provides a replicable framework for influencer collaboration and short-form video traffic generation. Finally, the “AI Growth Flywheel” integrates automated customer service, AI-powered predictive product selection, and dynamic pricing mechanisms, working in tandem with the Shopify platform to enable highly efficient, automated store operations — allowing participants to sustain and grow their business even while maintaining full-time employment.

A Homegrown Mentor with a Global Footprint

Course instructor Francisco Ho is the founder of two online stores each generating over HKD 100 million in annual revenue, with combined annual sales exceeding USD 17 million. His business portfolio spans Korean cosmetics brand BLESSEDMOON, investment firm COLLECTED GROWTH, and the business programme Pitching Dojo. Having launched a large-scale online store and established his own manufacturing facility at the age of 20, Ho is a member of the World Elite Leaders Alliance and has to date mentored over 100 students in successfully scaling their e-commerce businesses.

As Hong Kong’s e-commerce market enters a phase of accelerated growth, the data-driven and AI-empowered approach championed by the 10x E-Commerce System represents a vital resource for local entrepreneurs seeking to ride the digital economy wave and break through in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Hashtag: #Ecommerce #Business #Entrepreneurship #Coaching #FranciscoHo #10xEcommerceSystem

https://asiacoachgroup.com/

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

About Asia Coach Group

Founded in 2019, Asia Coach Group is a premier business education institution serving professionals and organisations across Asia. Our mission is to develop high-calibre business leaders and equip them with the skills, strategies, and mindset to drive measurable results.

To date, we have trained over 10,000 participants — from C-suite executives and seasoned professionals to first-time founders — generating more than HKD 300 million in cumulative revenue. Our faculty comprises six domain-expert instructors specialising in e-commerce, sales, investment, and corporate performance training.

香港 – Media OutReach Newswire – 2026年2月16日 – Asia Coach Group Limited（亞洲導師協會有限公司）今日宣布，與本地電商教育導師 Francisco Ho (何冠睿) 合作，推出全新《10x電商系統》培訓課程。課程以系統化電商營運方法論為核心，專為希望在正職以外拓展事業版圖的香港在職人士、全職家長及小型創業者而設，協助學員掌握由選品、建店、引流到轉化的完整電商技能。

近四成港人經營副業 電商成拓展事業新賽道

根據 Glassdoor-Harris 民調顯示，近四成香港人擁有副業以應對開支需求。Statista 調查顯示 64% 受訪香港電商預期2026年收入可錄得10%至20%增長。隨著數碼工具普及與創業門檻降低，愈來愈多專業人士及年輕創業者選擇以自主品牌網店拓展事業版圖，系統化的電商營運知識與實戰技能需求日益殷切。

專業人士的創業新路徑

Francisco Ho 表示：「香港有愈來愈多專業人士，開始思考如何將自身經驗或興趣轉化為可持續的個人品牌。電商的優勢在於入門門檻相對較低，同時具備規模化的潛力。你不需要辭掉本職，也能從零建立屬於自己的生意。《10x電商系統》正是為這群人而設，提供一套可實踐的框架，把『想試下』變成真正落地的第一步。」

課程跳脫傳統依賴第三方平台的經營模式，教授學員建立自主品牌網店，透過數據驅動的選品策略、節日消費心理分析及AI工具應用，把握節日購物旺季的商機。

四大核心模組 構建完整電商技能鏈

課程圍繞四大核心模組構建完整電商技能鏈：「P.V.S.價值打包術」以數據驅動精準選品，打造高溢價產品；「S級供應鏈盟友系統」建立輕資產合作模式，降低資金壓力與庫存風險；「KOL流量變現引擎」提供可複製的達人合作與短影音引流框架；「AI增長飛輪」則整合自動化客服、AI預測選品及動態定價機制，配合 Shopify 系統實現網店的高效自動化營運，讓學員即使兼顧正職亦能持續經營。

港產導師 面向國際

課程導師 Francisco Ho 為兩間年營收過億網店的創辦人，網店年銷售額逾1,700萬美元，事業版圖涵蓋韓國化妝品品牌 BLESSEDMOON、COLLECTED GROWTH 投資公司及商業節目《錢進道場Pitching Dojo》。他於20歲便開設大型網店及自設廠房，現為世界菁英領袖聯盟成員，至今已指導逾100名學員成功擴展網店業務。

在香港電商市場邁向高速增長之際，《10X電商系統》所倡導的數據驅動與AI賦能思維，正是助力本地創業者把握數碼經濟浪潮、成功突圍的重要力量。

Hashtag: #E-Com #電商 #副業 #創業 #培訓 #FranciscoHo #10x電商系統

https://asiacoachgroup.com/

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

Asia Coach Group

Asia Coach Group 成立於2019年，是亞洲領先的專業商業培訓機構。 我們致力於培育優秀的商業人才，協助個人及企業發揮潛能，實現卓越成就。

多年來，我們已培訓超過10000名學員，當中不乏企業高管、專業人士及創業者。 累積營收超過3億港元，旗下擁有6位專業導師，涵蓋電商、銷售、投資及企業培訓等範疇。

Aggregated multi-year assessments in Singapore and Malaysia highlight skills gaps as AI adoption accelerates

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 February 2026 – As artificial intelligence adoption accelerates across organisations, new data from workforce intelligence company Epitome Global signals that skills gaps may constrain the next phase of AI-driven productivity.

Based on aggregated skills assessments conducted across Singapore and Malaysia between 2023 and 2025, only around one in five professionals consistently demonstrate characteristics associated with AI-ready skills, including persistence, curiosity and reflective learning.

The findings are drawn from assessment data involving more than 200 participants across workforce development, employability and organisational programmes. While more than 70% of participants report advanced digital literacy, deeper skills gaps remain: approximately 56% rate themselves at a basic level in decision-making, and around 42% report only basic confidence in computational thinking, skills increasingly required to supervise AI tools, interpret outputs and integrate technology into workflows.

The data signals that as AI tools become more accessible, workforce readiness, rather than technology availability, may emerge as the primary constraint on performance in 2026.

“AI tools are scaling faster than workforce readiness,” said Kevin Chan, CEO of Epitome Global. “In the next phase of adoption, the differentiator will not be access to technology, but clarity around what people can actually do, how they make decisions, adapt and collaborate with AI-enabled systems.”

Five Workplace Trends to Watch in 2026

Based on these findings, Epitome identifies five workplace trends expected to shape organisations in 2026:

1. Disengagement and skills decay as rising risks to productivity and performance: Only around 1 in 5 workers consistently display behaviours associated with AI ready talent, such as persistence, curiosity and reflective learning.
2. Rapid AI adoption in the workplace in 2025 revealed gaps in AI integration: Despite strong uptake, 65% of organisations in Singapore remain focused on basic AI use cases, highlighting limits in scaling and embedding AI into workflows.
3. Workers across Southeast Asia and India shifting from cost based outsourcing toward higher value technical roles: Professionals in markets such as the Philippines, Vietnam and India are expanding into engineering, product, IT and data science functions, competing more directly in global talent markets.
4. Intensifying fire and hire cycles as organisations rebalance skills: In 2026, companies will continue to cut roles that no longer match future needs while hiring selectively for advanced technical and cross functional capabilities.
5. Senior employability becoming more strategic in AI driven organisations: As Asia ages, employers are looking at how senior professionals can contribute as knowledge carriers, reviewers of AI assisted outputs and cross functional mentors.

As organisations move further into 2026, differences in outcomes are likely to be shaped less by the number of AI tools deployed and more by how clearly organisations understand, measure and develop workforce skills.

For the full market commentary, visit: https://epitome.global/
Hashtag: #epitomeglobal #technology #singapore #business #AI

https://epitome.global/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/epitome-global-pte-ltd/?originalSubdomain=sg

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

Epitome Global

Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Singapore, Epitome Global is a workforce intelligence and skills analytics company that helps organisations understand, develop and deploy talent in an AI-enabled economy. Combining data analytics, artificial intelligence and sector-specific expertise, Epitome Global supports public and private sector organisations in workforce planning, skills assessment and targeted upskilling.

With approximately 1.3 million user profiles captured to date, Epitome Global leverages human capital analytics to power dashboards and workforce decision-making for enterprises and government agencies globally. Its platforms inform decisions around talent mobility, skills development and workforce transformation at scale.

Bringing Festive Flavours and Delicious Moments to the Community

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 February 2026 – Lee Kum Kee Sauce (“Lee Kum Kee”), the global leader of Asian sauces and condiments, marked a successful debut as the Platinum Sponsor of the 2026 Chinese New Year Festival & Market Day in Auckland. Co-hosted by the Auckland Chinese Community Centre (ACCC) and Channel 33, this festival was held on 14 February 2026, in celebration of the upcoming Year of the Horse, bringing together families, community groups, and cultural performers.

Set against the backdrop of the Auckland Showgrounds, the festival featured over 200 specialist stalls offering traditional Chinese hot delicacies, festive foodstuffs and traditional arts and crafts, attracting over 20,000 visitors. The extensive entertainment programme included lion dances, traditional Chinese songs and performances that brought the spirit of the celebrations to life.

Lee Kum Kee set up a captivating booth experience for festivalgoers of all ages, allowing them to explore an extensive range of sauces through delectable tastings, exclusive promotional sales, and the exciting “Chopstick Lucky Dip” prize-giving game, which drew enthusiastic participation throughout the event.

In serving the local community, Lee Kum Kee aims to bring traditional festive moments to life. Gary Hui, Business Development Director – Oceania of Lee Kum Kee Sauce, remarked, “Spring Festival represents family, togetherness, and the joy of sharing meals. We are proud to support an event that reflects these values. Whether you are discovering new tastes or enjoying familiar favourites, we hope this festival brings joy and connection to all.”

A trusted household name for generations, Lee Kum Kee is renowned for its authentic Asian sauces that inspire home cooking and festive dining. Through on-going community partnerships and cultural celebrations, Lee Kum Kee remains committed to supporting local communities while promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide through the joy of food.Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #LKK

https://www.LKK.com

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About Lee Kum Kee

Lee Kum Kee is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions, and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create, and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices, and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide. For more information, please visit www.LKK.com.