Category: What’s News Asia

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Southeast Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (SeABank, stock code: SSB) has announced its Sustainable Finance Framework (SFF), which received a Second-Party Opinion (SPO) from S&P Global Ratings on September 24, 2026. This milestone establishes a foundation for funding growth and capital allocation toward SeABank’s sustainability commitments.

SeABank’s SFF aligns with six international principles and guidelines issued by the International Capital Market Association (ICMA), Loan Market Association (LMA), Asia-Pacific Loan Market Association (APLMA), Loan Syndications and Trading Association (LSTA), and International Finance Corporation (IFC). It governs the full fund lifecycle through four pillars: use of proceeds, process for evaluation and selection, management of proceeds, and reporting.

Funding under this Framework will support eligible projects across 14 green categories (40-45%), 7 blue categories (10-15%), and 5 social objectives (40-45%).

This initiative aims to address Vietnam’s environmental and social challenges, such as emissions, water security, waste management and pollution, while improving underserved communities’ access to vital services, housing and finance. SeABank also supports marine biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, pioneering the field of blue financing.

The Framework sets quantitative criteria, such as a minimum 20% performance improvement in energy savings, emission reduction or water efficiency. All credit exposures are screened and assessed through SeABank’s Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS). These criteria and reporting mechanisms aim to enhance accountability and integrate sustainable finance into operations.

Building on its 2025 Green and Blue Bond Framework, ICMA-aligned and rated “Medium Green” by S&P Global Ratings, the updated Framework adds lending and social objectives, unifying green, blue, and social financing under one structure.

Through these moves, SeABank has mobilized nearly US$1.1 billion from international institutions, including IFC, AIIB, Norfund, Proparco, FMO, and DFC. As of September 2026, outstanding green credit exceeded VND4.1 trillion, up over 150% from end-2025. By 2030, SeABank targets green credit at 5% of total outstanding loans alongside a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions against its baseline year, while expanding financial access for vulnerable groups, women-owned businesses, and MSMEs.

Guided by its sustainability vision, SeABank is integrating ESG criteria into its long-term strategy and operations. The SFF serves as an indispensable instrument for capital mobilization and deployment, empowering clients’ green transition as Vietnam advances toward Net-Zero by 2050.

Learn more: SeABank’s SFF | S&P Global SPO

Hashtag: #SeABank

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

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Vinhomes Green Paradise, a 2,870-hectare coastal development in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, enters the global voting phase of New7Wonders’ “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign on Oct. 31. As the campaign’s first Official Participant, the project carries Vietnam’s aspiration to be counted among the cities that will define urban living in the 21st century.

Around 200 B.C., the Greek writer Philon of Byzantium compiled a list of seven extraordinary monuments, essentially a travel guide for fellow Greeks exploring the known world. More than 2,000 years later, only the Pyramids of Giza still stand. The Hanging Gardens, the Colossus of Rhodes and the rest have passed into legend. What has endured is not the stone, but the human desire to name, celebrate and protect the extraordinary.

Bernard Weber, founder of New7Wonders, revived that tradition with one key difference: the wonders would be chosen not by one person, but by millions of people around the world. The organization’s 2007 global vote drew more than 100 million votes, a reminder that a wonder becomes a wonder when it speaks to a shared sense of pride.

Vietnam knows this well. Ha Long Bay, with nearly 2,000 limestone islands rising from emerald waters, earned its place among the New7Wonders of Nature, showing that a single place can rally support from around the world.

Today, however, the world is shaped as much by cities as by landscapes. The United Nations projects that around 68% of the global population will live in urban areas by 2050. The idea of a wonder is shifting accordingly, from beauty inherited from nature to cities that balance nature, technology, sustainability and quality of life. The question is what it will contribute next, not as a wonder of nature, but as a wonder of the future.

A global stage for Vietnam’s urban vision

One answer is taking shape in Can Gio. The “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign seeks to identify the next generation of urban wonders by recognizing pioneering cities and developments that champion sustainable development, technological advancement, innovation and human-centric design. Launched on Oct. 31, 2025, the campaign is accepting applications through Oct. 31, 2026, and has drawn 265 participants from around the world. Vinhomes Green Paradise was the first to be named an Official Participant.

The global voting phase opens on Oct. 31, 2026, and will unfold in three stages:

November 2026 to April 2027: Public voting will determine a longlist of 77 participants, from which New7Wonders will select and reveal 28 finalists based on its defined criteria.

May to October 2027: The 28 finalists will compete through three qualifier stages, with millions of votes expected to decide the outcome.

Oct. 31, 2027: New7Wonders will confirm, validate and declare the “7 Wonders of Future Cities.”

Three pillars, one vision

Measured against the campaign’s criteria, Vinhomes Green Paradise is built on three core pillars.

Environment & Nature. The development occupies a rare coastal site in Can Gio, adjacent to the sea and the UNESCO-recognized Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve. Construction density across the 2,870-hectare site is planned at just 16%, leaving most of the land for green spaces, water bodies and ecological landscapes.

Smart City. The project is designed to integrate the Internet of Things (IoT), big data and artificial intelligence (AI) into urban governance, operations and environmental monitoring. By embedding technology in its infrastructure, it aims to optimize resource use, improve operational efficiency and foster a modern, safe and civilized living environment.

Human-Centric Development. Amenities and services are planned around a people-first philosophy, with an ecosystem of internationally benchmarked services spanning healthcare, education, senior living, culture, sports, entertainment and dining, designed to support a high quality of life for residents.

Vote for the future

Following an on-site visit, Jean-Paul de la Fuente, director of New7Wonders and chairman of the “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign, noted that the Can Gio setting places the relationship between development and nature at the center of the discussion. Vinhomes’ stated ambition to build that relationship into its vision is an important starting point, he said, while the project’s lasting value will depend on how planning decisions, environmental safeguards and long-term management support the ecosystem as the development progresses.

“For me, this is where the idea of a future city becomes particularly meaningful: understanding the natural systems on which a place depends and explaining how they will be cared for,” he said. In his view, Green Paradise has an opportunity to demonstrate its approach through evidence of progress and outcomes over time, contributing to a valuable international exchange on responsible development in sensitive natural settings.

Reflecting on the visit, he added: “A visit brings the physical context into focus: the relationship between the site and its surroundings, the scale of the urban vision, and the practical questions involved in connecting infrastructure, services and public spaces. Those relationships are easier to appreciate in person than through individual drawings or presentations.”

From Ha Long Bay to Can Gio, Vietnam’s story of wonders is being written in a new language: cities that listen to nature, use technology in service of people and measure success by quality of life. The project’s participation is expected to inspire national pride and rally support from communities in Vietnam and abroad, strengthening Vietnam’s voice in the global conversation on the future of cities.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

https://vinhomes.vn/en

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

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – From October 19 to 20, an economic and trade delegation from Hainan Province paid a visit to Hong Kong. The delegation signed memoranda of cooperation respectively withThe Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong (CMA)and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) to advance pragmatic cross-border collaboration between Hainan and Hong Kong in trade and investment, manufacturing industrial chains and professional services.

During its stay in Hong Kong, the delegation visited the CCPIT Representative Office in Hong Kong. It held discussions with CMA and co-hosted the Hainan Free Trade Port (Hong Kong) Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange Meeting with FHKI. The event showcased the policies, key industrial layout and investment opportunities of the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP), and arranged one-on-one business matchmaking between Hainan and Hong Kong enterprises.

Wang Yuyuan, Vice President of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Hainan Sub-council (CCPIT Hainan) and China Chamber of International Commerce Hainan Chamber of Commerce, noted that since the official launch of island-wide special customs operations at the Hainan FTP on December 18, 2025, 174,000 new enterprises have been registered, representing a year-on-year surge of 95.9 percent. Newly established foreign-invested enterprises rose by 35.8 percent year on year. In the first half of this year, inbound and outbound tourist arrivals exceeded 70 million, up 28 percent year on year, with the number of visa-free entry countries expanding to 88. From January to August, the province’s total goods import and export volume hit 250 billion yuan, growing by 61.5 percent year on year. Hainan is rapidly emerging as a critical gateway connecting China with the rest of the world and a prime channel for two-way investment.

According to CCPIT Hainan, Hong Kong ranks as a major source of foreign investment for Hainan. In the first half of this year, Hainan registered 1,303 new foreign-invested enterprises, an increase of 38.62 percent year on year, with Hong Kong-funded enterprises accounting for the lion’s share. Hainan has issued offshore RMB local government bonds in Hong Kong for four consecutive years, with a cumulative issuance volume reaching 18 billion yuan.

CMA is one of Hong Kong’s most representative non-profit industrial and commercial bodies, with around 3,000 member enterprises. It has long provided members with business services including exhibitions, brand promotion, testing and certification. FHKI, one of Hong Kong’s four major chambers of commerce, has approximately 2,000 corporate members. It focuses on boosting the sustained development of Hong Kong industry and manufacturing through policy advocacy, business matchmaking, certification services and youth talent cultivation.

The two memoranda explicitly stipulate that the two sides will establish a regular liaison mechanism, build a long-term cooperation platform covering information sharing, business matchmaking, exhibition collaboration and professional services, and provide solid support for pragmatic business cooperation between Hainan and Hong Kong enterprises.

Source: China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Hainan Provincial Committee (CCPIT Hainan)

Hashtag: #CPITHainan

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

From design and camera to AI, OPPO has taken R&D, testing, and manufacturing to the next level in the making of its latest flagship series.

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Following the global debut of Find X10 Series—featuring industry-leading camera hardware, including the industry-first Triple 200MP Camera System on Find X10 Pro Max, the next-generation LUMO True Image Engine, an all-new flagship design, and the latest AI-powered ColorOS 17—OPPO today invited members of the media for a closer look at the next-level making behind its new True Camera Phone. From what users see and feel on the outside, to the technologies and intelligence inside, and the manufacturing behind them, the Next Level of Making tour revealed OPPO’s integrated approach to product design, mobile imaging, and AI, where each technology and feature is developed, tested, and verified through rigorous processes designed to deliver exceptional levels of quality and consistency on a global scale.

“Quality is the foundation of OPPO’s entire product portfolio, and our control over the product creation process is what allows us to realize this commitment at scale,” said Ling Liu, Overseas CMO of OPPO. “Last year, we introduced Apex Guard to show how our commitment to quality goes beyond everyday use, product lifespans, and industry standards. This year, we are opening up our development, testing, and manufacturing processes to unveil how that vision translates into the Next Level of Making, and ultimately elevates the products and experiences we deliver.”

The Making of Clean and Sophisticated Design

For OPPO, achieving the Next Level of Making starts with product design, where purposeful functionality, signature aesthetics, and meticulous craftsmanship merge the latest technology and timeless style intuitively into one.

At the heart of this vision is OPPO’s Clean and Sophisticated design language, exemplified on Find X10 Series by the phone’s One-Piece Sculpted Glass design. The glass back cover gradually rises toward the camera area, introducing a finely sculpted transition before reaching the camera module. This subtle, three-level design softens the visual impact of the camera, creating a clear visual hierarchy that allows the camera to blend more naturally into the overall body of the phone.

On the Luna White edition of Find X10 Pro Max, this philosophy is taken further through a unique design drawing inspiration from classic cameras. Lining the vertical edge of the camera module, a fluted texture crafted through high-precision CNC engraving makes a nod to the focus ring seen on classic lenses. Complementing this, Luna White introduces a distinctive two-tone treatment with a delicate woven texture recreated within the matte glass surface. At first glance, the rear cover appears clean and pure white, but as the phone turns with the light, the fine woven pattern gradually comes into view, adding subtle depth and warmth beneath the minimalist surface.

The final design is the result of continuous testing, refinement, and close collaboration between OPPO’s Industrial Design and CMF teams. The Luna White colorway alone has undergone over 40 rounds of fine-tuning to achieve the desired tone, and a single rear-panel pattern requires more than 10 rounds of refinement across multi-stage precision treatments to achieve the intended appearance and durability needed to bring the design of the True Camera Phone to life.

The Making of a “Hasselblad True-to-Life Camera”

The same commitment to next-level making that shapes the product’s exterior extends to the camera system within.

Building on the co-development with Hasselblad that began in 2022, OPPO continues to reimagine its optical expertise for mobile. On Find X10 Series, three Hasselblad modes—Master Mode, Hi-Res Mode, and Portrait Mode—enable professional control, crystal-clear quality, and optical-quality bokeh, while industry-leading camera hardware combined with a next-generation LUMO True Image Engine bring natural color, fine detail, and lifelike tone to visual content.

The LUMO True Image Engine operates across three primary imaging architectures: the LUMO Natural Tone Engine delivers linear tonal rendering in default photo mode, the LUMO True Color Engine gains more accurate source information from the 24-channel multispectral sensor to reproduce color naturally, and the LUMO Hyper Pixel Engine enables continuous 26MP output by default across the main, telephoto, and ultra-wide cameras from ultra-wide to 9.9x zoom in Auto Mode, and uses multi-frame fusion to produce full-resolution 200MP photos with fine details at native focal length supported by 200MP sensors in Hasselblad Hi-Res Mode.

Reaching this level of realism requires extensive testing and validation at both the technical and perceptual levels. OPPO evaluates image quality against established industry benchmarks while applying its own True-to-Life criteria to ensure light and shadow appear vivid, colors remain faithful, and details appear lifelike in every image. HDR performance, facial brightness, and skin-tone gradation are assessed across 40 different lighting conditions to ensure tone remains balanced. For color testing, OPPO goes beyond the industry-standard 24-color chart, testing instead against 140 different colors to achieve more precise color reproduction across different hues and saturation levels. Lifelike human head models with real hair and wrinkles provide even more insights into how well the camera preserves intricate details and authentic textures without introducing overprocessed artifacts.

Laboratory testing is complemented by real-world shooting scenarios, combining objective metrics with human-led visual tuning to create the True Camera Phone. To simulate the challenges of filming a live concert, OPPO uses a dedicated stage setup that recreates demanding lighting and shooting conditions, while multi-axis robotic arms simulate natural hand movements and vibrations to assess image stabilization, with additional telephoto testing to help ensure consistent performance at different zoom levels.

The Making of a Truly Personal AI Experience

The Next Level of Making is ultimately about creating technology that better serves the people who use it. Through the latest ColorOS 17, OPPO has brought system-level AI to Find X10 Series, supported by a dedicated security framework that makes every interaction smarter, smoother, and more secure.

The updated AI Mind Pilot supplements the existing Ask Mode with a new Agent Mode powered by the third-party AI agent Manus to achieve a major breakthrough in system-level AI. Operating directly on the device across the photos and files, the new AI agent understands complex context and executes multi-step workflows in real time. For creative tasks, ColorOS 17 also introduces a new AI Photo Agent backed by OPPO’s proprietary Visual-Language Model and six expert image models. By interpreting visual references and natural-language instructions provided by the user, or proactively suggesting suitable edits, AI Photo Agent makes the edits that users actually want, allowing the creative process to become more intuitive for everyone.

Behind these capabilities is a global computing infrastructure designed to ensure consistent, reliable AI performance for OPPO users around the world. OPPO operates nine Internet Data Centers across six regions, each deployed based on the specific regulatory requirements, network and cloud infrastructure in the local market. With 99.99% availability, these data centers support round-the-clock operations and coordinated services worldwide.

Alongside this growth in AI capabilities, OPPO’s AI Security Framework prioritizes privacy and security by safeguarding user data at every stage of the AI lifecycle, from model training to everyday use. All OPPO data management practices align with local regulations and established operational controls, and OPPO’s Private Computing Cloud, developed in partnership with Google, isolates and protects user data when processed in the cloud.

A Smart Manufacturing Ecosystem Built for Scale

Since becoming one of the first smartphone companies to introduce automated manufacturing in 2017, OPPO has continued to expand its intelligent production capacity, today operating nine smart manufacturing centers globally. Spanning China, India, Indonesia, Egypt, Turkey, Brazil, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, these facilities operate at a high level of automation, with over 95% of Surface Mount Technology (SMT) production lines and an average of 85% of final assembly lines fully automated.

At the Chang’an Intelligent Manufacturing Center in China, early-stage R&D concepts are tested using over 300 automated testing stations on final assembly lines, accelerating the time needed from initial innovation to high-quality production at scale. The center is also responsible for final assembly, shipping up to 7,200 finished OPPO Find X10 Pro Max devices every day.

Through continuous innovation in key manufacturing processes—including display assembly, automated camera module installation, airtightness testing, and battery compartment inspection—OPPO continues to improve assembly precision and manufacturing consistency, allowing it to bring more advanced and reliable products to users worldwide.

Hashtag: #OPPO #FindX10Series #NextLevelOfMaking

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

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone – “Smiley Face” – in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 90 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

Technology-enabled collaboration connects healthcare, InsurTech and payment capabilities to deliver a more seamless customer journey while supporting Hong Kong’s InsurTech ecosystem

Key highlights

• Prudential partners with local InsurTech firm MediConCen and global payment solutions provider Mastercard to enhance Medical Expenses Direct Billing.
• Integrated digital journey on MediConCen’s platform, from doctor booking and pre-authorisation to expense settlement, with no upfront payment required from customers for approved medical expenses.
• Chiron Medical Group as the first provider partner, with broader rollout planned.
• Driving innovation across healthcare, InsurTech, and payments.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Prudential Hong Kong Limited (“Prudential”) today announced a collaboration with Hong Kong-based InsurTech start-up MediConCen (“MCC”) and global payment solutions provider Mastercard to further enhance the medical experience for Prudential customers. Powered by MediConCen technology, which digitally connects medical appointment booking, expense pre-authorisation and B2B payment by Mastercard virtual card, the collaboration provides customers with a faster, more secure and seamless journey from accessing medical services to settling eligible medical expenses.

Chiron Medical Group joins as inaugural provider partner

In the initial phase, Chiron Medical Group (“Chiron”) will serve as an inaugural provider partner, deploying the capability across their networks. This platform will expand to gradually include more providers including clinics, hospitals and medical networks across Hong Kong in the coming months, bringing the same effortless experience to even more customers.

The collaboration marks another step in Prudential’s efforts to enhance its Medical Expenses Direct Billing Service through technology and strategic partnerships. Eligible customers can benefit from:

• Instant appointment booking, making it easier to access medical services when needed.
• Instant pre-authorisation, providing earlier confirmation of eligible coverage before treatment.
• Cashless settlement of approved medical expenses, reducing the need to pay upfront and submit claims for reimbursement afterwards.

Together, these enhancements simplify the healthcare journey from booking and pre-authorisation to payment. Once an eligible medical expense is approved by Prudential, MCC facilitates settlement with the provider partner through the Mastercard virtual card. Provider partners will also have access to a dedicated portal for case handling and settlement, enabling prompt payment of approved claims with minimal paperwork.

Bringing together healthcare, InsurTech and payment expertise

Candy Au Yeung, Chief Customer Operations and Health Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, said: “This collaboration goes beyond direct billing by extending the journey upstream to appointment booking and pre-authorisation. It is an example of guided care in action, connecting the different parts of the customer journey across healthcare, technology and payments to further enhance our services and deliver a simpler, more convenient experience. We are also pleased to support home-grown InsurTech innovation as we continue to explore new solutions that provide customers with better experiences and greater peace of mind.”

“Nobody should have to worry about the bill when they are seeking treatment,” said William Yeung, Co-founder and CEO, MediConCen. “We built the technology that makes the payment journey invisible. Booking, approval and settlement flow as one. The patient never pays upfront, the provider is paid securely, and Prudential Hong Kong keeps full control of every coverage decision. That is what cashless should feel like.”

Enhancing efficiency and transparency in healthcare payments

“At Mastercard, we are committed to helping businesses move money more efficiently, securely and seamlessly. Through our virtual card capabilities, this collaboration enables a secure and streamlined digital settlement flow between insurers and healthcare providers, delivering greater efficiency, visibility and control to the claims process,” said Helena Chen, Senior Vice President, General Manager, Hong Kong & Macau, Mastercard. “Together with Prudential and MediConCen, we are demonstrating how commercial payments innovation can simplify complex B2B payment flows and support a more connected healthcare ecosystem.”

Wallace Wong, Chief Executive Officer, Chiron Medical Group, said: “We are extending the starting point of care even further — quality healthcare begins before patients even step into the clinic. From online appointment booking and consultation to claims settlement, the entire journey is seamlessly connected, allowing our teams to focus on clinical care.”

Supporting Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem

Beyond this collaboration, Prudential continues to support Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem by working with local technology and InsurTech companies to bring home-grown solutions into real-world insurance applications, helping drive industry innovation while delivering enhanced experiences for customers.

Technology connects appointment booking, pre-approval and payment to enable a more streamlined medical expenses direct billing journey. With minimal change required on their part, customers benefit from enhanced backend connectivity that helps make the overall experience more seamless and efficient.

Hashtag: #Prudential

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

About Prudential Hong Kong Limited

Prudential has been serving the people of Hong Kong since 1964. Through Prudential Hong Kong Limited and Prudential General Insurance Hong Kong Limited, the Company provides a range of financial planning services and products, including individual life insurance, investment-linked insurance, retirement solutions, health and medical protection, general insurance, and employee benefits to protect over 1.41 million customers in Hong Kong. Beyond Hong Kong, Prudential serves the Macau community through its branch, offering health insurance and financial solutions to complete its footprint in the Greater Bay Area. Visit www.prudential.com.hk for more information.

Vision Engineering Launches EVO Cam AURA, Bringing 4K Digital Inspection to Malaysia’s High-Growth Manufacturing Sectors

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Vision Engineering, a British microscope manufacturer with direct operations in Malaysia, has launched EVO Cam AURA, a 4K digital microscope platform built for the quality demands of the country’s booming semiconductor, electronics and precision engineering sectors. The system succeeds EVO Cam II, which became an industry standard across electronics, automotive, aerospace, medical device and research applications worldwide.

The Pressure on Malaysian Production Lines

Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 is driving the E&E sector toward the national RM1 trillion export target. IC packaging, PCB assembly and sensor production across Penang and Kulim demand finer defect detection at higher throughput. Inspection microscope manufacturers serving these sectors face mounting pressure, as ergonomic research indicates that inspection fatigue can reduce detection accuracy after just two hours of continuous work, affecting yields, scrap rates and operator retention.

Precision and Comfort in One System

EVO Cam AURA addresses both challenges. True 4K imaging resolves hairline cracks, contamination and pad geometry at the level that semiconductor packaging and medical implant tolerances demand. Operators work from a screen rather than through traditional eyepieces, so prolonged inspection places far less strain on eyes, neck and back, helping teams sustain accuracy across full shifts. When operators stay comfortable, defect detection remains consistent and production quality holds.

“Malaysia has firmly established itself as a sophisticated global manufacturing hub, particularly within the semiconductor and medical device sectors,” said Ganesh Ramakrishnan, South East Asia Regional Director at Vision Engineering. “Components are shrinking and tolerances are tightening. EVO Cam AURA gives quality teams the imaging clarity and integrated digital workflow they need to protect yields while meeting standards such as ISO 13485 and IATF 16949.”

Smart Manufacturing Integration

AURA software consolidates zoom, focus, lighting, capture, calibrated measurement and analysis into a single on-screen interface. Supervisor Mode locks critical parameters across systems and sites, while go/no-go overlays and golden-sample comparison reduce the steps between inspection and documentation.

EVO Cam AURA comes in three models, 4K Touch, 4K and HD, and operates standalone with no PC required. Secure variants are available for facilities where wireless connectivity, Bluetooth or removable storage cannot be permitted. Wi-Fi and LAN connectivity support live streaming and remote oversight, aligning with Malaysia’s push toward smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 readiness.

The Shift Already Under Way

The move from traditional eyepiece inspection to integrated digital precision is gaining ground across Malaysian manufacturing, and choosing the right digital microscope supplier matters more than ever.

To book an on-site demonstration using your production samples, visit my.visioneng.com, email info@visioneng.asia, or call +6012710266.

Hashtag: #VisionEngineering

https://www.visioneng.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/vision-engineering-ltd
https://www.facebook.com/visionengGlobal/
https://www.instagram.com/visioneng

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

About Vision Engineering Ltd

Vision Engineering Ltd provides inspection and metrology solutions across industry, science and research, from ergonomic optical magnification to advanced digital microscopy and non-contact measurement systems. Its product range includes the Mantis and Lynx EVO ergonomic stereo microscopes, the ProteQ VISO and EVO Cam series of digital microscopes, and a range of vision measurement systems for non-contact dimensional inspection and verification. Vision Engineering is certified to ISO 9001:2015 for its quality management system.

Vision Engineering’s contract manufacturing division offers comprehensive contract manufacturing, design, and commercialisation packages, giving customers access to the latest technology, as well as a team of experienced designers and engineers.

Founded in 1958 and wholly British-owned, Vision Engineering’s Global HQ, design, and manufacturing facilities are based in state-of-the-art modern premises in Woking, Surrey, UK, with extensive manufacturing facilities in the UK and the US. Regional sales and tech support offices are located throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, supported by a fully trained network of distributors.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Hong Kong’s strengths in finance and innovation, the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), and the changing role of professionals took centre stage at CPA Australia Congress 2026 in Hong Kong today, as government, business and global thought leaders explored how organisations can turn disruption into opportunity.

Held under the theme “Lead the Outcome: Shape What’s Next”, the Congress brought together policymakers, business leaders and industry experts to examine some of the forces reshaping the global business landscape, from AI and innovation to governance, leadership, organisational resilience and the skills needed to build future-ready organisations.

The Congress featured opening remarks from The Honourable Paul Chan, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Gareth Williams, Australian Consul-General in Hong Kong and Macau; and Dr Asheley Jones, Chief Learning and Innovation Officer at CPA Australia.

Preparing professionals to lead in a changing world

Dr Asheley Jones said the profession must prepare the next generation of accounting and finance professionals not simply to adapt to change, but to help shape what comes next. “We are not simply preparing the next generation of accounting professionals for the world as it is today. We are preparing them to lead in a world that is still being imagined.”

“Our ambition extends beyond knowledge. It is about preparing future accounting and finance professionals to apply judgement, question assumptions and respond confidently to a changing world. As information becomes increasingly accessible, professional value will not be measured by what you know alone, but by how you interpret it, act on it and create trust through the decisions you make.”

Hong Kong turns capital and innovation into new growth

Opening the Congress, Financial Secretary Paul Chan reflected on the theme “Lead the Outcome” and the increasingly strategic role played by accountants in business decision-making.

“As an accountant myself, it is good to see accountants being invited into the conversation before decisions are made, and not just afterwards to explain what happened.”

Chan highlighted finance and innovation and technology as two interconnected priorities under Hong Kong’s first Five-Year Plan, pointing to the city’s ability to turn its strengths in capital, innovation, enterprise and professional expertise into new engines of growth.

Highlighting Hong Kong’s role in connecting the Chinese Mainland with international capital and global markets, Chan pointed to the strong momentum in the city’s capital market.

“The momentum is encouraging. In the first nine months of this year, IPOs in Hong Kong raised some HK$388 billion, more than double the amount a year earlier. International investors from the US, Europe, Southeast Asia and the Middle East are major players here, while capital from the Mainland continues to flow in.”

Turning to innovation and technology, Chan highlighted the Northern Metropolis as a key part of Hong Kong’s future growth, with ambitions extending beyond physical infrastructure to establish an ecosystem connecting education, research, talent, enterprises and industry.

“We are bringing education, research, talent, enterprises and industry together to create a new engine of growth. By shortening the time to take discoveries to market and supporting them with patient capital, we give start-ups and young companies room to grow and scale.”

AI will redesign jobs, not simply replace them

Internationally recognised futurist Dr Ben Hamer urged businesses and professionals to focus less on predicting precisely what will happen and more on building the capabilities needed to respond to change.

“Nobody can predict the future with certainty. But while we can’t predict it, we can prepare for it. The future is not about being right, but about being ready.”

Internationally recognised futurist Dr Ben Hamer urged businesses and professionals to focus less on predicting precisely what will happen and more on building the capabilities needed to respond to change.

“AI is less a story about job loss and more a story about job redesign. As routine tasks become increasingly automated, professional roles will evolve towards the judgement, insight and trusted advice that clients value most.”

“The firms that succeed won’t be those with access to the latest technology, but those that invest in their people. Building AI fluency alongside human skills such as curiosity, adaptability and sound judgement will be critical to helping professionals thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

AI could be obsolete within 18 months

Dr Catherine Ball, scientific futurist and globally recognised innovator of influence, offered a provocative vision of what she described as the sixth Industrial Revolution, predicting that the way society thinks and talks about artificial intelligence could change rapidly.

“Welcome to the sixth Industrial Revolution, where passive, ambient intelligence predicts and protects, and the very term ‘AI’ will be dead within 18 months. Governing this shift means recognising that all AI strategies are actually data strategies, and that global oversight must mirror our financial regulatory system.”

Ball also highlighted a new challenge as AI is increasingly used to manage other AI systems.

“Using AI to manage AI is both the next frontier of financial security and a new attack layer, reminding us that humans are the loop, not just in it. Leaders should weigh what is possible, probable, and preferable while asking whose local cultural ethics and frameworks apply.”

Looking beyond technology, Ball said genuine human relationships and the ability to navigate uncertainty would become increasingly valuable.

“Ultimately, in a world where systems make everything expected, human value will shift from what you know to who you know, defined by real connections, effort signalling, and the courage to be unpredictable in the face of the unknown.”

CPA Australia will continue to support members and business professionals through thought leadership, professional development and its global network, helping them build the professional, technological and human capabilities needed to navigate change and contribute to sustainable business growth.

Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at cpaaustralia.com.au

• Two new data centres aim to bring robust infrastructure, lower latency and in-region data residency to local and European customers
• New AI and cloud products unveiled to meet the growing demand of enterprise AI in Europe

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Alibaba Cloud, a leading global provider of AI infrastructure and the intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, today announced the launch of its first public cloud region in the Netherlands, located in Amsterdam, with two new data centres now available to meet growing European demand for cloud and AI services. The announcement was made at the first International Apsara Conference, Alibaba Cloud’s flagship technology event in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

“The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most vibrant digital economies, and our first region here is a direct response to the strong demand we see from local businesses building and scaling with AI. By bringing our advanced AI and cloud capabilities to Amsterdam, we are giving customers the in-region infrastructure, performance and data residency they need to innovate faster, scale securely and operate with greater efficiency in the AI era,” said Dr. Feifei Li, Chief Technology Officer and President of International Business, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence.

The launch reflects surging customer demand as European businesses scale cloud-native operations and integrate AI at scale. By establishing infrastructure locally, Alibaba Cloud can deliver more resilient, low-latency services, strengthen disaster recovery, and support customers who require their data to be processed and stored locally in Netherlands and within Europe.

The new region offers a comprehensive suite of cloud computing products—spanning elastic computing, storage, container, networking, big data, security, database and cloud-native services. To meet the growing demand for enterprise agents across Europe, Alibaba Cloud also plans to bring a suite of agentic AI services to the region.

These products include ACS Agent Sandbox, which provides hardware-level security isolation while reducing the operational cost of AI agents; Agent Security Center, an integrated defense platform for AI agents; AI Security Guardrails 2.0, an upgraded security solution with end-to-end risk detection capabilities; Agentic SOC, an enterprise-grade, AI agent-driven security operations platform; and STAROps, a comprehensive intelligent operations platform. Together, these products are designed to streamline the building and running of enterprise-scale agents in a secure environment, giving enterprises full-cycle management of agent engineering.

During the conference, Alibaba Cloud also unveiled the latest generation of Apsara Stack, a flexible hybrid cloud solution built on public cloud architecture for public sector and enterprise AI workloads. The new solution delivers more than 80 cloud and AI products and provides round-the-clock service to customers worldwide. Powered by AI-driven operations and maintenance, it has improved operational accuracy to 92.5% and increased automation rates to 70%.

Apsara Stack offers a seamless hybrid cloud experience by bringing full-stack capabilities on premises. The platform combines flexible deployment and licensing with robust disaster recovery and enhanced security. This enables finance, telecom and public sector organizations to maintain controlled asset ownership and compliance while benefiting from agile cloud scalability.

Building a Robust Ecosystem with Customers and Partners to Thrive in the AI-powered Digital Era

As AI and cloud adoption accelerate, the new Netherlands region enhances Alibaba Cloud’s ability to deliver AI-ready infrastructure to European businesses—improving resilience, reducing latency, strengthening data localisation and supporting broader digital transformation goals. A growing ecosystem of Netherlands-based innovators is already building on Alibaba Cloud’s advanced and secure cloud and AI technologies.

• JetBrains, a software development company is working with Alibaba Cloud to explore the integration of Qwen models to power Junie, JetBrains AI coding assistant, across both cloud and local scenarios. The collaboration gives JetBrains and its developers strong cost-to-performance, early access to frontier Qwen models, and the flexibility to choose where models run — from in-region cloud to fully local, on-device setups.

“AI development is moving quickly, and developers need the freedom to choose the tools and models that work best for them. Working with Alibaba Cloud gives us an opportunity to combine JetBrains’ expertise in software development and AI with Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure and AI capabilities, giving developers more choice while keeping them in control of how they build with AI,” said Kirill Skrygan, CEO of JetBrains.

• Netherlands-based LLM platform orq.ai has partnered with Alibaba Cloud to integrate Qwen models into its hosted model garden, served natively from Alibaba Cloud’s AI development platform Model Studio. This integration allows orq.ai’s customers to access diversified cutting-edge generative AI while maintaining strict EU data localisation.

“For us at orq.ai, the value of local infrastructure is what businesses can build on it. We welcome Alibaba’s investment in the Netherlands and look forward to working together to help more organisations put AI into everyday use in a reliable and scalable way,” said Anthony Diaz, Co-Founder and CPTO, orq.ai.

• Monks, a global digital-first marketing and technology services company headquartered in Amsterdam is integrating Alibaba’s latest generative AI models into Monks.Flow, its proprietary end-to-end AI marketing platform through Alibaba Cloud Model Studio platform. By leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s advanced AI capabilities, Monks can deliver highly ambitious creative assets faster, providing global brands with greater speed-to-market and flexible token optionality. The companies plan to expand the use of these models beyond content creation into wider marketing workflows, with Monks adopting Alibaba latest AI models in the future.

“AI moves fast. Our job is to turn that progress into a creative and commercial advantage for our clients, and to provide flexibility and optionality in their token usage. Our partnership with Alibaba Cloud will give our teams access to its latest image, video and language models for use in Monks.Flow, helping us bring more ambitious ideas to life and get great work into market faster,” said Wesley ter Haar, Co-Founder of Monks and Chief AI Officer.

• Magnific, the world’s leading AI platform for creatives serving more than one million subscribers and thousands of enterprise clients worldwide, has integrated Alibaba’s advanced AI models into its platform to help content creators generate, enhance, and refine content more efficiently, while unlocking new levels of creativity and productivity.

“We are pleased to partner with Alibaba and integrate its advanced AI models into Magnific. This collaboration strengthens our platform and gives creators more powerful tools to accelerate their work and expand their creative possibilities,” said Jose Florido, CGO from Magnific.

• Idea.ai, an Amsterdam-based digital design marketplace, has leveraged Alibaba’s advanced AI models to power its next generation of generative media inside idea.ai, delivering high-quality, cost-competitive creative tools to its tens of millions of registered users. The two companies plan to deepen their collaboration across the full creative spectrum.

“We are committed to making great creative tools accessible to everyone, and Alibaba Cloud’s advanced AI models help us deliver that at scale cost-effectively. This is just the start; we’re excited to deepen the collaboration across the whole creative industry,” said Roemie Hillenaar, CEO and Co-founder, Idea.ai.

Alibaba Cloud’s Growing Presence Across Europe

As part of Alibaba’s previously announced US$53 billion investment in AI and cloud infrastructure, the new Netherlands region expands Alibaba Cloud’s global infrastructure to 109 availability zones across 32 regions worldwide, providing secure, scalable and robust cloud and AI infrastructure to support customers everywhere on their digital innovation journeys.

Joining Alibaba Cloud’s existing European regions in Germany (Frankfurt), the UK (London) and France (Paris), the Netherlands becomes the company’s fourth region in Europe, giving businesses more in-region options for data residency and keeping their data and AI workloads within Europe.

In addition, Alibaba Cloud is also planning to establish its first cloud regions in Finland, while expanding its data center footprints in Germany and France over the next 12 months. The expansion will further increase Alibaba Cloud’s global computing capacity and strengthen its ability to provide localized cloud and AI services to customers across key European markets.

Hashtag: #AlibabaCloud

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

About Alibaba Cloud

Alibaba Cloud (www.alibabacloud.com) is a global leader in full-stack AI+Cloud solutions. It offers a comprehensive suite of flexible, scalable and secure cloud services built on a three-tiered architecture of Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Model-as-a-Service (MaaS). Alibaba Cloud empowers enterprises worldwide with its full-stack AI capabilities, powered by Qwen (Chinese: Qianwen), a family of large language and multimodal AI models developed by Alibaba. Debuted in 2023, Qwen models are available to global developers via HuggingFace (open-weight) or through API on Model Studio, Alibaba’s one-stop, enterprise-grade AI development platform offering access to the full suite of Qwen foundation models.

Singapore’s iconic contractor returns in Shopee’s latest 11.11 commercial as the platform rolls out over 600 deals at up to 90% off, star-studded livestreams and more ways for shoppers to save and win.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 October 2026 – Don’t play play! Singapore’s favourite contractor, Phua Chu Kang, is back, and Shopee is pulling out all the stops for its 11.11 Big Sale! Running from 30 October to 17 November, the campaign brings shoppers Shopee’s Lowest Prices of the Year and Biggest Vouchers of the Year, with S$111 off S$350 Flash Vouchers, over 600 specially discounted deals and prices starting from just S$0.99.

For shoppers who have been holding off on their wishlists, now is the time to start planning. From everyday essentials to premium electronics, beauty and fashion favourites, the sale brings substantial savings across a wide range of products. Shoppers can also look forward to celebrity-led livestreams, exclusive shopping promotions and a chance to win an Aion V Luxury electric SUV worth approximately S$68,000.

Bringing the celebrations to life is Phua Chu Kang, played by Gurmit Singh, who makes his return in Shopee’s latest 11.11 commercial. After spending the year frozen inside a high-security vault, the iconic contractor bursts back into action with his signature humour and a catchy new 11.11 jingle, taking shoppers on an action-packed journey through Shopee’s biggest sale of the year.

Biggest Vouchers of the Year and Deals from S$0.99!

Whether it is upgrading a household appliance, stocking up on everyday essentials or finally checking out a big-ticket purchase, shoppers can make their budgets go further with:

• S$111 off S$350 Flash Vouchers: Enjoy more than 30% savings with Shopee’s Biggest Vouchers of the Year, particularly for shoppers planning larger purchases. The biggest voucher drops will take place on 10 and 11 November.
• Up to 90% off Biggest Deals: Discover over 600 specially discounted deals, with selected products starting from just S$0.99. New deals will be released through Flash Deals from 30 October to 13 November, giving shoppers more opportunities to snap up their favourites.
• Extra 3% Cashback with ShopeeVIP: Subscribers can enjoy additional cashback on eligible purchases, alongside exclusive access to selected 11.11 promotions.

Among the deals worth marking your calendars for:

• Electronics and Home Appliances: Marshall Emberton III Portable Bluetooth Speaker at S$20 (U.P. S$299) on 30 October, and Shark TurboBlade Bladeless Fan at S$20 (U.P. S$499) on 11 November.
• Beauty: SK-II PITERA Facial Treatment Essence (230ml) at S$10 (U.P. S$292.12) on 11 November.
• Fashion: Adidas Lifestyle Cotton Baseball Cap at S$0.99 (U.P. S$30) on 1 November, and Longchamp ÉPURE XS Tote Bag at S$50 (U.P. S$655) on 11 November.
• Everyday Essentials: Coca-Cola Zero Sugar (24 x 320ml) at S$0.99 (U.P. S$21.15) on 4 November.

With limited-time deals released throughout the campaign, shoppers can plan ahead for the biggest wave of promotions beginning at 8pm on 10 November. Full product details, release timings and shopping links are available in the accompanying [Shopee 11.11 Big Sale Shopping Guide 2026].

Catch Your Favourite Creators and Exclusive Deals on Shopee Live!

Shoppers can look forward to S$11 livestream-exclusive price drops, up to 25% off Livestream Flash Vouchers and creator-exclusive bundles, with special shopping sessions taking place on 10 and 11 November.

For shoppers who enjoy discovering products through live demonstrations and creator recommendations, the celebrations extend even further. Homegrown women’s wellness brand Moom and social commerce agency Confetti are collaborating with Shopee for 111 hours of livestream shopping, combining 63 hours of affiliate-hosted broadcasts from 3 to 9 November with Moom’s longest-ever 48-hour continuous livestream from 10 to 12 November.

Produced by Confetti and hosted on Shopee Live, the 48-hour broadcast will feature rotating hosts, interactive games and community Q&A. Shoppers can tune in throughout the two-day marathon for Buy 1 Get 1 Free deals on all full-sized Moom products and Shopee-exclusive bundles at 40% off, while selected affiliate livestreams will feature additional creator-exclusive bundles and giveaways.

For one lucky Shopee shopper, this year’s 11.11 could come with an even bigger reward: an Aion V Luxury electric SUV worth approximately S$68,000.

ShopeeVIP subscribers can register for the giveaway from 30 October to 17 November, with every S$30 spent on eligible purchases during the campaign earning one chance in the draw. The winner will be announced on 26 November. The prize excludes the Certificate of Entitlement (COE), which will be borne by the winner.

Beyond savings and rewards, Shopee is also making it more convenient to receive purchases quickly. With Buy Today, Get Today, shoppers who place eligible Fulfilled by Shopee orders before 12pm can receive their purchases on the same day, subject to delivery slot availability.

The Shopee 11.11 Big Sale runs from 30 October to 17 November, with the biggest promotions beginning at 8pm on 10 November. Visit Shopee’s 11.11 Big Sale campaign page to discover the latest deals, claim vouchers and explore upcoming livestreams.

Disclaimer: Gurmit Singh as Phua Chu Kang (Phua Chu Kang Pte Ltd). Permission to use the name and likeness of the character “Phua Chu Kang” was granted by Mediacorp TV Singapore Pte Ltd. Phua Chu Kang, the character and all related name, likeness and logo are the copyright of and owned by Mediacorp TV Singapore Pte Ltd.

Download the Shopee 11.11 Big Sale Shopping Guide 2026 here
Hashtag: #Shopee

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

Shopee

Shopee is the largest e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, and is a leading e-commerce platform in Brazil. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities.
Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the digital economy, with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a global technology company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena, and Monee.

Hashtag: #BioVersys

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

About BioVersys

BioVersys AG is a multi-asset, clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on identifying, developing and commercializing novel antibacterial products for serious life-threatening infections caused by multi-drug resistant (“MDR”) bacteria. Derived from the company’s two internal technology platforms (TRIC and Ansamycin Chemistry), candidates are designed and developed to overcome resistance mechanisms, block virulence production and directly affect the pathogenesis of harmful bacteria towards the identification of new treatment options in the antimicrobial and microbiome fields. This enables BioVersys to address the high unmet medical need for new treatments against life-threatening resistant bacterial infections and bacteria-exacerbated chronic inflammatory microbiome disorders. The company’s most advanced research and development programs address nosocomial infections of Acinetobacter baumannii (BV100, Phase 3), and tuberculosis (alpibectir, Phase 2, in collaboration with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and a consortium of the University of Lille, France). BioVersys is located in the biotech hub of Basel, Switzerland.

About ADVANCE-ID

ADVANcing Clinical Evidence in Infectious Diseases (ADVANCE-ID) is a clinical research network involving more than 200 hospitals across Asia, with a base at the National University of Singapore (NUS). The mission of ADVANCE-ID is to conduct high-quality clinical trials that have a global impact on management of infections. ADVANCE-ID was set up in March 2022 with a grant from Wellcome and funds from other institutions including, NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, NTU Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, and the National Centre for Infectious Diseases. Email: hello@advance-id.network Tel : +65 6516 4988 https://www.advance-id.network/

About Wellcome

Wellcome supports science to solve the urgent health challenges facing everyone. We support discovery research into life, health and wellbeing, and we’re taking on three worldwide health challenges: mental health, infectious disease and climate and health.

About BV100

BV100 is a novel formulation of rifabutin suitable for intravenous administration, with a recently discovered novel mode of action showing an active uptake of rifabutin into the Gram-negative bacterial species, Acinetobacter baumannii. For the first time, BV100 allows for the targeting of the RNA-polymerase enzyme in Gram-negative bacteria with a human-suitable dose. BV100 is being developed for the treatment of infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii calcoaceticus complex (ABC), including carbapenem-resistant ABC (CRABC) in critically important indications of ventilator associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP), hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP) and bloodstream infections (BSI). BV100 was granted US FDA Fast Track Designation in 2026 and QIDP Designation in May 2019, making BV100 eligible for priority FDA review and a five-year extension of market exclusivity upon approval of the first QIDP indication.

About Acinetobacter baumannii

Acinetobacter baumannii calcoaceticus complex (ABC) are Gram-negative bacteria found in the environment (e.g., in soil and water) and an opportunistic pathogen in humans, typically infecting critically ill and immunocompromised patients, that can result in severe pneumonia and bloodstream infections in addition to affecting other parts of the body. ABC is considered a significant worldwide threat in the healthcare setting given its ability to survive for prolonged periods on surfaces, combined with its ability to develop or acquire resistance to standard of care antibiotics, e.g. carbapenems. Carbapenem-resistance as well as multi-drug resistance (MDR) rates for ABC are among the highest recorded for any bacteria in current times (The Lancet 2022; 399: 629–55). Incidence and resistance rates for ABC are trending upwards and COVID-19 has exacerbated this significantly. BioVersys forecasts the annual number of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii infections in hospitals to have surpassed one million globally and due to the limited treatment options, such infections come with high (up to 50%) mortality rates.