Category: What’s News Asia

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 September 2026 – September offers an opportunity to refresh everyday routines ahead of the busy year-end period. From nutrition and supplements to personal care and household essentials, wellness can take many forms in daily life. Global health and wellness retailer iHerb is highlighting six “Health Reset” essentials across adult nutrition, children’s supplements, personal care and household cleaning to support a range of everyday needs.

Marking its 30th anniversary this year, iHerb offers a broad selection of health, beauty and everyday essentials to customers around the world.

For consumers ready to turn their Health Reset intentions into action, now is an ideal time to explore iHerb’s selection of more than 50,000 products and discover the items that best suit their individual routines. As part of its 30th Anniversary Spotlight promotion, more than 600 participating brands are offering savings of up to 30% with promo code “IH30YRS” until 17 September at 1:00 a.m Singapore time. New customers worldwide can also enjoy 25% off with code “NEW25”. In addition, up to 200 limited-time product deals will be added daily through 16 September, with selected items available at 40% off or more—giving shoppers even more opportunities to find new favourites for their personal reset.

Reset everyday habits and build a more consistent wellness routine

A refreshed routine can begin with simple, consistent nutritional habits. Alongside a balanced diet, supplements can help individuals meet their nutritional needs. Doctor’s Best Vitamin C, 500 mg provides 500 mg of vitamin C per serving in a vegetarian capsule, making it easy to incorporate into a daily supplement routine for consumers who want to support their everyday nutrition.

Another popular option is California Gold Nutrition Antarctic Krill Oil, which combines omega-3 phospholipids with naturally occurring astaxanthin. It comes in fish-gelatine softgels with natural strawberry and lemon flavour. From vitamin C to omega-3 supplementation, small and consistent daily habits can provide a practical foundation for a September wellness reset.

Refresh the family routine, from children’s nutrition to personal care

A Health Reset does not need to involve dramatic lifestyle changes. For families, it can start with small habits that are easy to maintain. Nature’s Way Alive! Kids Premium Gummy Multivitamin offers a convenient everyday supplement option for children aged two and above.* Available in cherry, grape and orange flavours, these gummies provide a range of vitamins and minerals and are easy to incorporate into a family’s daily routine. Children aged 2–3 years should chew two gummies daily, while children aged 4 years and above should chew three, preferably with food. (*Not suitable for children under 2 years of age due to the risk of choking.)

For those looking to refresh their hair-care routine, Force Factor Hair Growth Accelerator comes in mixed berry-flavoured soft chews designed for convenient daily use. It is formulated to support fuller-looking hair and can be incorporated into a consistent hair-care routine. Together, these options give families simple ways to identify the everyday habits that work best for them.

Reset the home, from laundry care to the bathroom

A reset can extend beyond personal routines to the home. Nellie’s Wow Stick Stain Remover offers a solid stain-treatment option for everyday marks on clothing and fabrics, while Seventh Generation Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner is formulated for hard, non-porous surfaces and features a lemongrass citrus scent. Together, the two products offer practical options for refreshing everyday household routines.

iHerb expands its 30th anniversary offers with daily limited-time deals

To celebrate iHerb’s 30th anniversary, the Spotlight promotion will run from 3 September at 1:00 a.m. to 17 September at 1:00 a.m. Singapore time. More than 600 participating brands will be featured, and shoppers can enjoy savings of up to 30% with promo code ‘IH30YRS’. New customers worldwide can also receive 25% off with promo code ‘NEW25’, making it easier to discover health and everyday essentials on iHerb for the first time.

Alongside the Spotlight promotion, iHerb will have up to 200 limited-time product deals each day through 16 September, with selected items available at 40% off or more across supplements, beauty, personal care and household categories. Products, discounts and promotion terms may change; the latest information on the official iHerb website will apply. Consumers in Singapore can also follow the official iHerb WhatsApp account for the latest updates and get access to an exclusive 25% off promo code.

iHerb: A One-Stop Global Health and Wellness Platform

Headquartered in California, USA, iHerb is a global online retailer of health and wellness products. The platform provides Singapore consumers with access to authentic products through a safe and reliable cross-border shopping experience. Products are shipped directly from logistics centres in the United States and Asia, alongside the following delivery and shipping options:

• Fast delivery: Orders can arrive in as fast as three days.
• Free shipping: Available on orders over SGD 60. Final availability is subject to the options shown at checkout.
• Authentic products: Choose from more than 50,000 authentic products across health, wellness, beauty and daily essentials.

The featured products and anniversary preview offers are available through iHerb Singapore at https://sg.iherb.com/.

Hashtag: #iHerb

https://sg.iherb.com/

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

About iHerb

iHerb is a globally recognised US-based cross-border e-commerce platform specialising in health supplements, nutritional products, beauty and personal care, and daily essentials. Offering a curated selection of more than 50,000 items and serving over 180 countries and regions, iHerb is dedicated to helping consumers worldwide access health and beauty options at reasonable prices. All products are shipped directly from multiple logistics centres in the United States and Asia, with cold-chain and temperature-controlled warehousing used where appropriate. iHerb also continues to enhance its multilingual customer service and localised payment methods to provide a safe, transparent and convenient shopping experience.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 September 2026 – Fresh graduates entering Singapore’s workforce continue to find opportunities across financial and insurance services, professional services, information and communications, healthcare and social services, even as employers become more selective and artificial intelligence reshapes entry-level work.

According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), entry-level professional, managerial, executive and technician (PMET) openings increased from 32,500 in December 2025 to 32,800 in March 2026, despite an overall decline in job vacancies. MOM also reported that around nine in 10 university graduates from the 2025 cohort found employment within 12 months of graduation, suggesting that fresh graduate employment has remained relatively resilient.

Financial services, professional services and technology remain active hiring sectors

Financial and Insurance Services, Professional Services, and Information and Communications were among sectors identified by MOM as experiencing active PMET hiring and wage growth. Together, these sectors recorded approximately 14,200 PMET vacancies as of September 2025, compared with 12,600 a year earlier, including roles suitable for fresh graduates.

Opportunities span finance, risk, compliance, accounting, consulting, software, systems and data functions. Increasing digitalisation also means these boundaries are becoming less distinct, with banks and professional services firms increasingly recruiting technology and data talent.

Information and communications continue to require digital capabilities

Singapore’s technology workforce reached 214,000 in 2024, according to the Infocomm Media Development Authority’s Singapore Digital Economy Report 2025, with AI and Data and Cybersecurity among the fastest-growing technology occupations. The latest MOM data also shows concrete entry-level demand. As at March 2026, Information and Communications recorded 200 vacancies for software developers, 130 for IT support technicians and 80 for computer engineers among its entry-level jobs with higher vacancy counts.

Technology graduates are therefore finding opportunities not only within technology companies but also across finance, manufacturing, professional services and other industries.

Financial and professional services are evolving with technology

Singapore’s financial sector continues to provide opportunities across banking, insurance, investment, risk and compliance. As at March 2026, MOM identified financial compliance officer or risk analyst, insurance sales agent or broker, and financial or investment adviser among the entry-level Financial and Insurance Services roles with higher vacancy counts, with 30 vacancies recorded for each occupation. Technology is also changing the nature of financial services, with institutions applying analytics, automation and AI across areas such as fraud detection, customer service and risk management.

Professional Services provides opportunities across both corporate and technical functions. MOM’s March 2026 data identified 100 vacancies for resident technical officers, 60 for auditors and 50 for IT support technicians among the sector’s entry-level jobs with higher vacancy counts. As AI increasingly assists with research, analysis and routine processes, graduates who combine professional knowledge with digital capabilities, communication and judgement may be better positioned for changing roles.

Healthcare and social services continue to offer graduate pathways

Health and Social Services continues to provide entry-level opportunities for graduates. As at March 2026, MOM identified 210 vacancies for social workers, 190 for registered nurses and other nursing professionals, and 80 for social work associates among the sector’s entry-level jobs with higher vacancy counts. These roles demonstrate that graduate demand extends beyond digital careers. Specialised professional knowledge and interpersonal skills remain important in sectors where human interaction and service delivery are central.

AI is changing entry-level roles rather than simply removing them

Generative AI has raised concerns among students and parents about its impact on graduate employment. MOM data presents a more nuanced picture. Among firms that had adopted AI, 6 per cent reported reducing headcount and 8 per cent lowering hiring activity, while 19 per cent redesigned roles and 14 per cent created AI-related jobs. The impact of AI has therefore been more visible in job redesign than broad-based hiring reductions. Fresh graduates may increasingly be expected to use AI tools, interpret data, assess AI-generated information and focus on areas requiring judgement, communication and problem-solving.

Skills-based hiring is changing how graduates compete

Employers are also looking increasingly beyond qualifications alone. MOM’s Job Vacancies 2025 report found that academic qualifications were not the main consideration for 79.6 per cent of vacancies.

This places greater emphasis on what graduates can demonstrate alongside their qualification, including internships, technical capabilities, communication, teamwork and analytical thinking. For students choosing a degree, employability is therefore not only about entering a growing industry but also about developing skills and experience that employers value.

SIM graduate outcomes reflect employment across diverse industries

Graduate employment data provides another way for students and parents to assess career outcomes. According to the Private Education Institution Graduate Employment Survey 2024/2025, 81.0 per cent of SIM fresh graduates surveyed secured employment, while 47.0 per cent were in full-time permanent employment. The median gross monthly salary was S$3,565. Across all private education institutions surveyed, 78.9 per cent of fresh graduates secured employment, with a median gross monthly salary of S$3,500.

SIM’s Graduate Employment Survey also shows graduates entering sectors including banking and financial services, ICT and cybersecurity, consulting and professional services, aviation and engineering, healthcare and social services, logistics and transportation, retail and manufacturing. Employment outcomes remain dependent on factors including programme choice, individual skills, work experience and labour-market conditions.

Parents can consider employability alongside programme fit

For parents supporting higher education decisions, current hiring trends provide useful context, but today’s strongest industry may not necessarily offer the greatest opportunities several years from now. A broader assessment can include a student’s interests and strengths, programme curriculum, awarding university, recognition, fees, career support and graduate employment outcomes.

The SIM Parent Resource Hub brings these considerations together, covering degree pathways, programme recognition, fees and financial support, student care and graduate employability. Its Graduate Outcomes & Employability resource provides information on SIM’s PEI Graduate Employment Survey results, industries and organisations where SIM graduates have worked, and career and internship support available to students.

These resources can help parents consider not only where jobs are available today, but how a higher education pathway can help their child develop relevant knowledge, experience and transferable capabilities.

Career resilience increasingly depends on transferable skills

Singapore’s labour-market data shows that opportunities for fresh graduates remain spread across multiple industries. Financial Services, Professional Services and Information and Communications continue to offer professional opportunities, while Healthcare and Social Services, also show meaningful entry-level demand.

For students entering higher education, career preparation may therefore be less about identifying one “future-proof” industry and more about developing disciplinary knowledge, practical experience and transferable skills that can remain valuable as employment needs change. Parents and students can refer to the SIM Parent Resource Hub, including its Graduate Outcomes & Employability resource, when evaluating degree pathways, employability, recognition, fees and student support.

References

1. Ministry of Manpower, Singapore. Fresh Graduate Employment – https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/parliament-questions-and-replies/2026/0804-written-answer-to-pq-on-fresh-graduate-employment
2. Ministry of Manpower, Singapore. Trends in Job Vacancies – https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/parliament-questions-and-replies/2026/0805-written-answer-to-pq-on-trends-in-job-vacancies
3. Ministry of Manpower, Singapore. Sectors with Active Hiring and Wage Growth – https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/parliament-questions-and-replies/2026/0113-written-answer-to-pq-on-sectors-with-active-hiring-and-wage-growth
4. Ministry of Manpower, Singapore. Job Vacancies 2025 – https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2026/0320-job-vacancies-report-2025
5. Manpower Research and Statistics Department, Ministry of Manpower. List of Entry-Level PMET Job Opportunities for Fresh Graduates – https://stats.mom.gov.sg/iMAS_PdfLibrary/List-of-top-entry-level-PMET-job-opportunities-for-fresh-graduates-Q1-2026.pdf
6. Infocomm Media Development Authority. Singapore Digital Economy Report 2025 – https://www.imda.gov.sg/resources/press-releases-factsheets-and-speeches/factsheets/2025/ar-sgde-2025
7. Singapore Institute of Management. Parent Resource Hub: Helping Your Child Choose the Right Degree Pathway – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/parent-resource-hub
8. Singapore Institute of Management. Graduate Outcomes & Employability – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/parent-resource-hub/graduate-outcome-employability

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

https://www.sim.edu.sg/

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 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

CALGARY, CANADA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – Colossal Energy Fields Corp. (“Colossal Energy”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Warren Irwin as Special Advisor. With 40 years of financial markets, investment management, corporate finance and capital allocation experience, Mr. Irwin will provide strategic counsel to the Company’s management team and Board of Directors as it evaluates growth opportunities, financing alternatives and disciplined investment in projects related to oil and gas resources.

Mr. Irwin founded Rosseau Asset Management Ltd. in 1998, following several successful years in proprietary investing at Deutsche Bank Canada. Rosseau’s flagship fund, Rosseau LP, was established on December 31, 1998 and has earned a strong reputation for investment performance and disciplined, research-driven decision-making. In his time at Rosseau, Mr. Irwin has had extensive experience investing in offshore oil projects off the coasts of South America and Africa, and onshore projects throughout the world.

Prior to founding Rosseau, Mr. Irwin’s experience also includes corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions at CIBC Wood Gundy, credit analysis and fixed-income management at Scotia Capital Markets, and proprietary trading at Deutsche Bank Canada. Mr. Irwin holds a Bachelor of Mathematics from the University of Waterloo, is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Western Ontario.

“Warren’s extensive financial, investment and capital-markets background along with his passion for offshore oil exploration will be a significant asset to Colossal Energy Fields,” said Curtis Cohen, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Colossal Energy.

“His analytical mindset, discipline, governance and professionalism will greatly strengthen funding resource opportunities, as well as capital allocation and long-term shareholder value.”

Colossal Energy’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth shines brightest in nations where its investments in energy access, community empowerment, and equitable development directly advance energy equity for all.

Hashtag: #ColossalEnergyFieldsCorp.

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

About Colossal Energy Fields Corp.

Colossal Energy Fields Corp is a Canadian oil and gas exploration company focused on exploration and production opportunities in Africa. Proven Upstream Pedigree. Colossal Energy has deep expertise in exploring offshore opportunities and developing near-to-producing field opportunities.

SALALAH, OMAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – On September 7, local time in Oman, witnessed by Bater, Executive Vice Governor of Hainan Province, and Khamis bin Mohammed Al-Shamakhi, Undersecretary for Transport at Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), Maple Leaf and MTCIT signed a comprehensive agreement on the next phase of cooperation in autonomous driving. Officials from relevant Hainan provincial authorities and the Chinese Embassy in Oman attended the ceremony. Earlier that day, Maple Leaf founder and Chairman Liang Yi joined His Excellency Eng. Said bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, and executives from Oman Airports for a test ride in a Maple Leaf autonomous shuttle at Salalah International Airport, completing all on-site validation procedures. Led by Maple Leaf and jointly organized by MTCIT and Oman Airports, the test represents an important official step in Oman’s deployment of smart and sustainable mobility technologies and a milestone for the operation of Chinese autonomous driving technology in the country. Future Fund Oman under the Oman Investment Authority (OIA) and Temple Water Capital are also accelerating Maple Leaf’s Series B financing round, worth tens of millions of US dollars.

The cooperation demonstrates how Hainan Free Trade Port technology companies can leverage local advantages to expand internationally. Maple Leaf previously received strategic investment from Chengmai, Hainan, and key policy support from Haikou, using Hainan as a base to expand its new energy vehicle and technology businesses overseas. At the Salalah Airport test site, officials from various Omani authorities experienced the vehicle firsthand. The test covered key functions including sensing and real-time monitoring, route recognition, environmental perception, and obstacle handling, comprehensively assessing the vehicle’s ability to operate safely and intelligently under real-world conditions using autonomous driving technology. After confirming the vehicle’s stable operation and efficient dispatching, His Excellency Al Maawali praised Maple Leaf’s technical capabilities and rapid deployment, describing it as “China speed.” From domestic trials and vehicle commissioning to airfreighting the vehicle to Muscat and quickly launching on-site tests, Maple Leaf’s execution efficiency earned strong recognition from the Omani side and led to a clear path for deeper cooperation.

His Excellency Al Maawali stated on site that Oman would fully support Maple Leaf’s participation in smart city, airport electrification, and energy transition projects. He set a specific target for the company to establish last-mile passenger and logistics networks across Muscat and Salalah within one year. MTCIT has also set an official timetable requiring Maple Leaf to begin commercial operations of autonomous vehicles in the third quarter of 2027. Under the plan, Maple Leaf will deploy 30,000 to 50,000 autonomous shuttles and driverless logistics vehicles across Oman over the next five years. The broader cooperation is expected to help Oman become the first of the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries to achieve transport electrification, commercial deployment of autonomous driving, and energy transition. The plan aims to position Oman as a regional benchmark for transport transformation in the Middle East, support the implementation of Oman Vision 2040, and align with the country’s 2050 net-zero target and the goals of the Sustainable Dhofar initiative.

Following the tests, Maple Leaf Chairman Liang Yi said that with investment from OIA, Oman’s sovereign investment fund, and Temple Water Capital accelerating, together with progress toward commercial operating licenses, Maple Leaf will use Oman as a regional hub to bring China’s successful autonomous driving experience to the wider Middle East and establish a proven model for smart mobility.

Hashtag: #MapleLeaf

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

HONG KONG – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – Sohar International has officially opened its Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong, marking an important milestone in the Bank’s international growth journey and establishing an on-the-ground presence to deepen relationships with financial institutions, investors, businesses and strategic partners across Hong Kong and wider Asian markets.

The opening was marked by an official gala ceremony at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, held in the presence of The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, as Guest of Honour; His Excellency Sheikh Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Hinai, Ambassador-at-Large, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; His Excellency Pankaj Khimji, Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation, Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP); His Excellency Muneer Ali Nasser Al-Muneeri, Deputy President of the Oman Investment Authority for Operations; Mr. Said Mohamed Al-Aufi, Chairman of Sohar International; and Mr. Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, alongside the Board of Directors and other senior representatives from Oman and Hong Kong, regulators, financial institutions, corporate and institutional clients, investors, trade organisations and members of the business community.

The launch follows Sohar International’s receipt of approval from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority in April 2026, followed by final approval from the Central Bank of Oman in May 2026 to establish the Asia Pacific Office. The new presence provides Sohar International with a platform to strengthen institutional relationships, deepen its understanding of Asian markets and develop greater connectivity between opportunities across the region and its clients and relationships in Oman.

On the sidelines of Sohar International’s participation in the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, the Bank signed two strategic Memoranda of Understanding, further demonstrating its commitment to strengthening business and investment connectivity between China, Asia, Oman and the wider GCC. The Bank signed an MoU with Templewater, an Asia- and GCC-focused alternative asset manager with a presence across Hong Kong, Singapore and Muscat. The partnership provides a framework to explore investment opportunities for eligible Sohar International clients, potential co-investments, project-financing opportunities, and banking services for Templewater’s portfolio companies operating in Oman.

Sohar International also entered into a strategic and reciprocal partnership with E-Fund, one of China’s leading asset management institutions, with a broad investment platform and a significant presence across China and international markets. The partnership positions Sohar International as E-Fund’s exclusive partner in Oman and the wider region, facilitating the marketing of E-Fund’s investment products through the Bank’s Asset Management and Origination & Placement businesses, while E-Fund will promote Sohar International’s investment and capital markets offerings to its client network in China.

Together, these partnerships represent early tangible outcomes of the Bank’s growing presence in Hong Kong and demonstrate its role in building institutional relationships, facilitating investment and capital flows, and creating new opportunities connecting China and Asia with Oman and the wider GCC.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, highlighted that Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government warmly welcomes the opening of Sohar International’s representative office – the first presence of an Omani bank in Hong Kong, and Sohar International’s first office in Asia. Its arrival affirms confidence in Hong Kong as an international financial centre and a gateway connecting the Middle East, the Chinese Mainland and Asia. Oman’s strategic position along the maritime Belt and Road, combined with Hong Kong’s strengths in capital markets, asset and wealth management, banking, professional services and offshore Renminbi business, can facilitate trade, investment and project financing. Hong Kong-Oman collaboration is already taking good shape, including the Oman Investment Authority’s plan to participate in Hong Kong’s vibrant startup ecosystem by investing up to HK$250 million as a partner to the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund. Under the “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong serves as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”. HKSAR Government looks forward to deepening financial links with Sohar International, helping businesses find the right opportunities in the Gulf and across Asia, and turning new connections into lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, said: “Oman has looked east for centuries, building strong commercial and cultural connections across Asia, with Sohar playing an important role in this history. Today, we are building on that legacy in a modern economic context. Our presence in Hong Kong is a strategic step in Sohar International’s international growth, giving us closer access to one of the world’s most important financial and commercial centres and a stronger platform from which to engage with investors, financial institutions, businesses and strategic partners across China and Asia. Our objective is to turn this connectivity into tangible opportunities for Oman and our clients — attracting investment and capital into the Sultanate, supporting Omani businesses seeking to access Asian markets, and creating stronger channels for investment, trade, knowledge and business between Asia, Oman and the wider GCC. Hong Kong therefore represents more than a geographic presence for us; it is an important gateway through which Sohar International can build meaningful relationships and create value across these interconnected markets.”

The Director-General of Investment Promotion, Ms Alpha Lau, said that InvestHK is proud to have facilitated Sohar International’s setup in Hong Kong, from its business delegation to Oman in May 2025 to high-level government exchanges and local regulatory alignment. Beyond enriching Hong Kong’s banking sector, Sohar International’s arrival enables businesses to reimagine what the stronger investment ties between the Middle East and Asia can achieve, capitalising on the city’s strengths in fundraising, risk management, and professional services. Sohar International will also serve as a key partner for Chinese enterprises seeking to expand into Oman and the wider GCC.

Sohar International’s presence in Hong Kong also reflects a much broader history of engagement between Oman and Asia stretching back more than a thousand years. Oman’s geographical position and maritime tradition placed its sailors, merchants and ports within extensive trading networks connecting the Arabian Peninsula with India, Southeast Asia and China. These routes formed part of the wider maritime networks now referred to as the Maritime Silk Roads, facilitating not only the movement of goods but also the exchange of knowledge, ideas, culture and commercial relationships between East and West.

Sohar played an important role within these historic networks. Historical research documented by UNESCO identifies Sohar as an important Omani trading port and entrepôt for vessels travelling between East and West. By the tenth century, it had developed into one of the region’s most significant trading centres, with archaeological evidence demonstrating commercial links with markets including China.

This historical context provides a meaningful backdrop to Sohar International’s presence in Hong Kong today. While the nature of connectivity has evolved from maritime trade to modern flows of capital, investment, technology, knowledge and enterprise, the importance of building enduring relationships between markets remains central to the Bank’s international strategy.

Hong Kong’s position as one of the world’s leading international financial centres, together with its connectivity with the Mainland and global markets, makes it a strategically important platform for Sohar International’s engagement with Asia.

Through its Asia Pacific Office, Sohar International aims to strengthen relationships with financial institutions, corporates, investors and strategic partners, while promoting greater awareness of the investment and business opportunities emerging within the Sultanate of Oman. The presence will also support the Bank in developing deeper market understanding and relationships that can benefit Omani clients and businesses seeking greater engagement with Asian markets.

The initiative reflects Oman’s broader economic direction under Oman Vision 2040, which places emphasis on private-sector development, international cooperation, investment and greater integration with the global economy. Sohar International’s international growth supports this direction by creating stronger financial and institutional links between Oman and strategically important international markets.

The Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong also builds on the Bank’s expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and represents a further step in Sohar International’s ambition to strengthen its regional and international presence and support its clients across increasingly interconnected markets.

The official opening ceremony brought together senior representatives from Oman and Hong Kong, reflecting the growing economic and institutional ties between the two markets. The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, addressed the occasion, followed by Mr. Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International.

The ceremony also celebrated the longstanding cultural ties between Oman and Asia, combining elements from both regions while showcasing Sohar International’s growth journey, expanding international presence and ambitions for the future.

Through its presence in Hong Kong, Sohar International aims to support greater two-way connectivity between Oman and Asia, helping bring international investors, institutions and opportunities closer to Oman while developing stronger relationships for Omani businesses across international markets.

The milestone further reinforces Sohar International’s broader ambition to contribute to bringing the best of Oman to the world and the best of the world to Oman.

Download high-res images HERE

Hashtag: #SoharInternational

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

About Sohar International:

Sohar International is guided by a clear vision to become a world-leading Omani service company that helps customers, communities, and people prosper and grow. With a purpose to help people ‘win’ by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, the bank offers innovative solutions across Commercial and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, Islamic Banking, and more. Operating with a strong digital-first approach and an expanding regional footprint—including presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Sohar International is committed to driving value through strategic partnerships and a dynamic customer experience. Learn more at www.SIB.om.

BERLIN, GERMANY – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – Following the debut of its SpaceMaster Built-in Oven Series at IFA 2026, Midea concluded its Berlin showcase with live cooking demonstrations and a clearer roadmap for the future of its built-in cooking business in Europe.

At IFA, the SpaceMaster Series put two technologies at the center of Midea’s cooking showcase: temperatures of up to 350°C and Graphene Turbo Hot Air technology. On Midea’s Culinary Stage in Hall 5.1, Michelin-starred chefs used the built-in ovens to prepare dishes live, demonstrating how high-temperature cooking and fast thermal response could translate from technical specifications into real culinary applications.

During an onsite Q&A at Messe Berlin, Midea executives also explained why pizza was selected as a key proof point for the SpaceMaster Series. Pizza places several demands on an oven at once, requiring intense heat, fast thermal response and precise temperature control to achieve a crisp exterior without burning. Midea positioned the 350°C pizza application as a way to address consumer expectations for shorter preheating times and restaurant-quality results at home.

At the core of the SpaceMaster Series is Midea’s Graphene Turbo Hot Air technology. The graphene heating element has a thermal response time of as little as 0.2 seconds, while the oven supports cooking temperatures of up to 350°C. Midea also re-engineered the thermal system, airflow and control algorithms as part of its broader approach to high-performance built-in cooking.

Beyond the technologies demonstrated at IFA, Midea outlined how SpaceMaster fits into its longer-term European product roadmap. Graphene is expected to serve as a common technology thread across its future premium built-in cooking portfolio. Plans include extending the technology to steam-combi models tailored for European artisanal bread baking, followed by space-saving compact formats for urban apartments.

This roadmap reflects Midea’s “design for Europe from Europe” approach. Its European R&D team leads local user research, engineering and compliance while collaborating with global R&D teams to translate regional cooking habits and kitchen requirements into product development.

Midea has set an ambition to become one of Europe’s top-three cooking brands within five years, spanning built-in ovens and freestanding cookers. Following its IFA 2026 showcase, the SpaceMaster Series is planned for market launch in 2027.

Hashtag: #Midea

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

About Midea & Midea MOA

Midea is a global technology group ranked No. 246 on the 2025 Fortune Global 500 and No. 39 among the world’s most valuable technology brands in the Brand Finance Top 100 2026. Midea has ranked No. 1 globally in microwave appliances for 10 consecutive years (Euromonitor, 2016–2025). Its Microwave & Oven Appliance (MOA) division generated USD 3.05 billion in revenue in 2025.

Midea operates seven global R&D centers, holds more than 5,500 granted patents and serves markets in more than 160 countries and regions.

Key Messages:

• The NPO Standards Industry Summit brought together global standards and industry giants, who reached a consensus on international NPO standards, laying a solid foundation for the industry upgrade and large-scale commercial use of NPO.
• Multiple vendors from countries like China, the US, and Japan held a joint exhibition of connectors, NPO modules, and switches, strengthening industry confidence in building an open and prosperous NPO ecosystem.

PARIS, FRANCE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – On September 10, the NPO Standards Industry Summit, co-hosted by IPEC and OIF, was held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center. The event was attended by top players from across the global industry chain, including experts from OIF, CAICT, Tencent, Alibaba Cloud, Baidu, Huawei, Broadcom, SENKO, Amphenol, and Yamaichi. The summit focused on NPO evolution and international standards development, with in-depth discussions being held on topics like ecosystem upgrade and industry chain collaboration. Ultimately, a consensus on international NPO standards was reached at the summit, laying a solid foundation for the industry upgrade and large-scale commercial use of NPO.

Dr. Zhao Wenyu, Vice Chairman of IPEC and Deputy Director of the Technology and Standards Research Institute of China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), emphasized: “As SuperPoDs continue to expand in scale, traditional optical modules are consuming huge amounts of energy, and co-packaged optics (CPO) faces constraints like a closed industry chain and complex operations and maintenance. In contrast, near-packaged optics (NPO) – with its excellent energy efficiency, a favorable trade-off in port density, and strong compatibility with existing pluggable ecosystems – is expected to become the preferred solution for SuperPoD interconnect in the near term, and coexist and evolve alongside CPO and other solutions in the long term. We call upon stakeholders across industry, academia, research institutions, and user groups, to join hands in developing NPO standards and driving the NPO ecosystem to evolve from ‘usable’ to ‘easy-to-use at scale’”.

Jiang Zhibin, the Optical Network Architect at Tencent, highlighted: “As SuperPoDs expand in scale and GPUs and switch chips increase their SerDes data rates, optical interconnect solutions will advance more rapidly towards 6.4T NPO.” Looking ahead, there is an urgent need to use opto-electronic collaborative design to overcome the challenges introduced by advanced packaging processes.

Dr. Man Jiangwei, Director of the Advanced Opto-Electronics Laboratory at Huawei, stated: “In exploring the optimal interconnect solution – NPO – for SuperPoDs, Huawei has launched the industry’s first high-bandwidth 7.2T NPO product and successfully conducted a demonstration of dynamic transmission at the IPEC exhibition booth. Furthermore, with the introduction of key technologies like built-in light sources and highly-integrated SiPh chips, this NPO product features ‘high bandwidth, high reliability, and high availability’ while achieving ‘low latency, low power consumption, and low cost’.”

Meanwhile, at the China International Optoelectronic Exposition (CIOE), the IPEC booth showcased the latest achievements of the global NPO industry chain, particularly those from the US, Japan, and China. The display showcased high-density connector solutions from leading vendors in the US and Japan, as well as the NPO modules of various capacities developed by multiple Chinese vendors, alongside several NPO switches, demonstrating a high level of commercial maturity.

The success of this summit and exposition marks a milestone for the development of the global NPO industry. At the summit, a consensus was reached on international NPO standards and the paths for collaboration between standards organizations and the industry chain were streamlined, laying a solid foundation for the large-scale commercial use of NPO. Furthermore, the joint exhibition of industry ecosystem products has strengthened industry confidence in building an open and prosperous NPO ecosystem.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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Advancing low-altitude economy development across the Belt and Road regions

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – HKT (SEHK: 6823) – PCCW Global, the international telecommunications service provider under HKT, and Harmony Tech Innovation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 11th Belt and Road Summit to jointly promote the low‑altitude economy across the Belt and Road regions, facilitating Chinese enterprises and innovative technologies as they expand overseas.

PCCW Global plans to leverage its global communications networks and international market resources, together with Harmony Tech Innovation’s low-altitude airspace traffic management technology, to explore and promote low‑altitude airspace traffic management solutions and related smart city solutions in Belt and Road markets. The collaboration will also explore applications in areas such as transportation, logistics, and emergency rescue, to support the development of smart cities and the low-altitude economy in local markets.

Frederick Chui, CEO of PCCW Global, said: “The low-altitude economy is a strategically important emerging industry for the nation, and also a key direction for developing new quality productive forces. As countries along the Belt and Road accelerate urban development, demand for low-altitude airspace management and communications technologies continues to grow. PCCW Global is ready to further extend our network capabilities into the low‑altitude economy, providing efficient and reliable communications support for low‑altitude airspace traffic management. In collaboration with Harmony Tech Innovation, we will help bring Chinese innovative technologies to the global market, and support the advancement of smart cities and the digital economy along the Belt and Road.”

Jacqueline Kang, Chairman, Harmony Tech Innovation said: “Communications networks and management systems are critical foundations for the low-altitude economy. We are delighted to collaborate with PCCW Global, combining our digital management capabilities with PCCW Global’s extensive communications networks to provide robust support for low-altitude operations. Looking ahead, we look forward to continuing our collaboration, driving the practical application of low-altitude technologies, and seizing opportunities in overseas markets.”

Harmony Tech Innovation is a global leading provider of low-altitude airspace traffic management and unmanned aerial vehicle ecosystem, focusing on low‑altitude economy and 3D low‑altitude traffic management platform. Its “Low Altitude Airspace Coordination and Service System”, launched in Zhuhai in 2024, is interconnected with China’s Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Management Platform and offers capabilities including regional remote low‑altitude surveillance, centimetre‑level satellite positioning, providing data support for smart city management and laying the foundation for the development of the low-altitude economy in the Greater Bay Area.

PCCW Global’s network infrastructure spans five continents and is backed by extensive international operational experience, enabling it to actively help drive the overseas expansion of China’s advanced technologies. PCCW Global delivers customised network solutions for low‑altitude economy scenarios, supporting real‑time data transmission and the management of low‑altitude aircraft.

Hashtag: #HKT #PCCWGlobal

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About PCCW Global

PCCW Global is a leading digital infrastructure provider, empowering businesses with agile, scalable and secure connectivity solutions. By combining a best-in-class network with our award-winning on-demand platform Console Connect, we help businesses navigate the network complexities of the digital world with ease. With extensive reach across international markets, we make it simple to connect and move data between clouds, apps, data centres and devices. At the core of our business is a belief that automated, high-performance network infrastructure has the power to elevate business and society. For more information, visit www.pccwglobal.com.

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2026 – Vietnam Industry and Technology Week 2026 (VITW 2026) officially opened today, bringing together more than 2,000 booths from leading Vietnamese and international companies. Under the theme “Technology Leads – Industry Transforms – Breakthrough Beyond”, VITW 2026 combines exhibitions and technology demonstrations with specialised conferences and business matching, offering an up-to-date view of the trends shaping global industry.

The exhibition runs until 11 September at the Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) in Dong Anh, Hanoi, and is expected to draw more than 70,000 visits.

Exhibitors include hundreds of leading companies in vehicle electrification, automation, green manufacturing and supply-chain restructuring, from Vietnam and around the world. Over the three days, they will look for buyers and investment partners, extend their networks and gain an early read on the latest trends in the industry.

In 2026, VITW brings together more than 2,000 booths across more than 70,000 m² at VEC, organised into seven exhibition, fair and conference zones: the Vietnam International Industrial Fair 2026 (VIIF 2026); the International Manufacturing Congress 2026 (IMC 2026); the Hanoi Major Industrial Products Fair 2026 (Hanoi MIP Fair 2026); Automation World Vietnam 2026; the Vietnam International Technology Exhibition Series 2026; the 3rd International Clean Energy, Power and Energy Storage Industry Exhibition Series; and the 3rd Vietnam International Hardware, Hand Tools, Fasteners and Electromechanical Equipment Exhibition 2026.

Among these, the Vietnam International Industrial Fair 2026 (VIIF 2026) is one of the flagship events, spanning three exhibition halls. It showcases complete motor vehicles alongside their ecosystem of components, batteries, charging infrastructure, robots, machinery and manufacturing software.

In vehicles and supporting industries, the highlights include VinFast with its electric vehicle range and Hai Au with its Chenglong trucks; Tinh Nhue Hung Yen together with Hatico, Bristar, Navicom and FECO Vietnam, presenting mechanical products, components, seats, displays, dashcams and emission-reduction equipment; and battery and charging-infrastructure players such as Mikano and Wanxianghui.

Next comes the mechanical engineering and automation group, with industrial robotics solutions from CNCTech and Roboworld; high-precision machinery and mechanical equipment from AKC Engineering, T&T Vina, XYD Vietnam and AIT Innovation; industrial software from VINIS; and smart home appliances from VPlus Vietnam.

The gathering of major industry names at VIIF 2026 – from electric vehicles, components and energy to robotics, mechanical engineering and software – reflects the shift in Vietnamese industry towards electrification, automation and stronger domestic supply capacity. VIIF also opens the door for companies to find suppliers, partners and markets in a new phase of growth.

Adjoining VIIF 2026 is the Hanoi Major Industrial Products Fair 2026 (Hanoi MIP Fair 2026), organised by the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade. Across more than 9,000 m², the fair presents five strategic sectors: microchips and semiconductors; information technology; electrical, electronics and refrigeration; mechanical engineering and automation; and healthcare, textiles and garments, leather and footwear, and food and beverage. Visitors can see technology applications first-hand and speak with companies at their booths, connecting Hanoi’s businesses with manufacturers, buyers and technology partners from around the world.

Speaking at Hanoi MIP Fair 2026, Mr. Tran Duc Hai, Member of the Hanoi Party Committee and Director of the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade, said: “Organising the Hanoi Major Industrial Products Fair 2026 demonstrates the effort and commitment of the city of Hanoi to actively and effectively implementing the Central Committee’s resolutions on industrial development, science and technology, innovation and private-sector development.”

Alongside the exhibitions, dmg events – one of the world’s leading exhibition organisers – and VEC are co-hosting the International Manufacturing Congress 2026 (IMC 2026), bringing together 60 speakers: policymakers, business leaders, investors and experts from Vietnam and abroad. Through 17 in-depth sessions, IMC focuses on the issues now shaping companies’ competitiveness, including advanced manufacturing, AI and automation, attracting high-value investment, supply-chain restructuring, energy security, green manufacturing and workforce development.

Alongside IMC, the Business Matching programme gives companies a direct channel to buyers, distributors, investors and technology partners – to find outlets for their products, evaluate solutions and build future partnerships.

IMC 2026 also marks the start of a long-term partnership between VEC and dmg events. dmg events’ international organising experience, combined with VEC’s operating capability and domestic partner network, will continue with the Vietnam International Industrial Fair 2027 (VIIF 2027). Building on VIIF’s 35-year history and 32 editions, the two sides aim to expand the exhibition footprint, raise the quality of stands and the visitor experience, and deepen the professional content through the accompanying conferences, forums and investment-matching activities.

Representing the organiser, Ms Lý Hoa Liên, Deputy General Director of Business Development and External Relations at the Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC), said: “Through Vietnam Industry and Technology Week 2026, VEC hopes to help realise the vision of making Hanoi a major innovation hub of the Asia-Pacific region by 2045 – a place where ideas grow into projects and connections create value for the capital and the country. From VITW 2026, VEC will continue to bring international industrial and technology event series to Vietnam, widening the opportunities for Vietnamese companies to partner and reach global markets. We believe that, drawing on our own strength and the support of our international friends, Vietnam will achieve new breakthroughs in the nation’s era of rising.”

As a partner to VEC and to the Vietnamese market more broadly, Mr Christopher Hudson, President of dmg events, said: “Vietnam is well positioned to benefit from the trends reshaping global industry. Manufacturing contributes about 24.5% of GDP, while manufactured exports reached more than US$421 billion in 2025, close to 89% of total exports – evidence of Vietnam’s growing role in global production and supply chains. As manufacturing enters a period of deep transformation in AI, automation, digitalisation, energy and talent, dmg events wants to work with VEC to build a strategic platform that strengthens the competitiveness of Vietnamese manufacturing.”

VITW 2026 builds on the success of VITW 2025. In 2025, more than 70,000 visits and VND 600 billion in signed contracts showed that VITW’s model of “multiple specialised exhibitions in one space” works, helping to lift the competitiveness and appeal of Vietnamese industry.

Programme details: https://vec.global/events/vitw2026

Hashtag: #VEC

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About the Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC)

The Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) in Co Loa, Dong Anh, Hanoi opened on 19 August 2025 with a total area of 900,000 m² and is a large-scale exhibition and convention complex in Vietnam. With the mission “Bringing Vietnam to the world and the world to Vietnam”, VEC works with international organisers to develop a system of annual specialised exhibitions in industry, energy, healthcare and education.

About dmg events:

Founded in 1989, dmg events has spent 37 years creating connections that drive growth, innovation and commercial opportunity across markets worldwide. With 13 offices globally, dmg events organises more than 30 events a year in energy and policy. Spanning four continents, the company’s flagship events – including ADIPEC and Gastech – bring together policymakers, industry leaders, investors and innovators to address the issues shaping the future of energy systems and global markets.

According to the GII 2025 report themed “Innovation at a Crossroads,” the global innovation system is reaching a critical turning point. This comes amidst rapid advancements in emerging technologies—such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), clean energy, biotechnology, and digital systems—while nations simultaneously navigate economic challenges, technological competition, and geopolitical shifts.

Thus, the GII serves as more than just a national ranking; it is a crucial tool that reflects the strengths, weaknesses, and potential of each country’s innovation ecosystem. Thailand is ranked 41st globally and continues to perform above expectations relative to its economic development level (Innovation Overperformer) within the upper-middle-income group. The nation shows strong innovation potential, particularly in digital infrastructure, innovative business development, and the linkage of knowledge between academia and industry.

This ranking highlights Thailand’s progress toward an innovation-driven economy through the promotion of research and development, support for innovative entrepreneurs and startups, and the strengthening of the national innovation ecosystem. Key organizations like the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA play a pivotal role in bridging collaboration among universities, the private sector, and government agencies to ensure research and technology are commercially deployed.

One of the key innovation indicators in the GII is “University–Industry R&D Collaboration,” which reflects the depth of joint research and development between academic institutions and industrial sectors—a fundamental driver for creating innovation and sustaining long-term national competitiveness.

Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA), explained that the NIA acts as a crucial “Innovation Intermediary” among academia, private enterprises, government sectors, and financial institutions. Its mission is to facilitate the translation of knowledge, research, and technology into tangible commercial and social benefits. Currently, Thailand’s main challenge is not a shortage of research, but rather the “gap” between academic research and its industrial application. Many university research projects possess high potential but lack the supporting mechanisms for business prototyping, market testing, or connecting with entrepreneurs and investors. Therefore, the NIA’s role is essential in building platforms and support programs that enable efficient collaboration between universities and the business sector.

The NIA supports University–Industry R&D Collaboration across multiple dimensions, including providing innovation grants, incubating and accelerating deep-tech startups, creating collaborative networks between universities and private entities, and promoting Innovation Ecosystems in strategic sectors such as FoodTech, AgTech, HealthTech, ClimateTech, and Deep Tech. These areas heavily rely on combining academic expertise with market capabilities and industrial investment.

Furthermore, the NIA actively promotes “Open Innovation” and “Co-Creation”—core concepts aligned with the direction of GII 2025, which indicates that the global innovation system is entering an era of multi-stakeholder collaboration and co-creation. The NIA creates platforms to match industry demands with university research capabilities, while also supporting activities such as Hackathons, Accelerator Programs, Innovation Bootcamps, and Regulatory Sandboxes to test innovations in real-world environments.

Another key responsibility is developing “Innovation-Based Enterprises” and “Startups” originated from university research (University Spin-offs). Spin-offs serve as a major driver in leading innovative nations like the United States, South Korea, and China to turn university knowledge into global tech enterprises. The NIA offers early-stage support ranging from business model development and capital access to investor networking and market connection locally and internationally.

Trends in GII 2025 demonstrate that countries with strong university-industry collaboration consistently generate continuous innovation and maintain high competitiveness. Hence, the NIA operates not merely as an innovation support agency, but as a “systemic mechanism” that bridges the gap between research and business, connects knowledge with market demand, and drives Thailand toward a long-term, knowledge-based economy.

Ultimately, elevating Thailand’s performance in the University–Industry R&D Collaboration indicator requires concerted efforts among universities, the private sector, government entities, and innovation-enabling organizations like the NIA. Together, they build a comprehensive ecosystem covering knowledge creation, research, testing, investment, and market expansion—forming a solid foundation to boost the country’s future competitiveness.

Lessons Learned: Startup Success Through University–Industry R&D Collaboration

Mr. Krerkchai Panyabaramee, Managing Director of Tleum Co., Ltd., shared that the commercial application of advanced material technology—derived from R&D by Dr. Supan Yodyingyong from the Institute for Innovative Learning, Mahidol University, who holds a patent for “Synthesis of Silica Aerogel from Sodium Silicate Solution at Atmospheric Pressure”—stands as a clear case study of University–Industry R&D Collaboration. The business originated from translating pilot-scale research on Silica Aerogel within the university into industrial-scale manufacturing in partnership with the private sector.

Currently, Tleum Co., Ltd. has successfully commercialized Silica Aerogel into a diverse range of products, including heat-reflective paints for buildings and industrial applications, heat-resistant cement and materials, oil absorbents for spill remediation, and cosmetic ingredients. This demonstrates the immense potential of Thai Deep Tech in value creation through advanced materials and collaborative research.

This success was not achieved by any single entity, but through the synergy of academia, business, and supporting bodies like the NIA. The NIA stepped in to bridge knowledge gaps, provide resources, and mitigate technology development risks, allowing entrepreneurs to overcome cost, testing, and scaling limitations rapidly. This highlights the NIA’s role as an “Innovation Bridge” turning academic research into commercial reality.

Dr. Krithpaka concluded: “The ‘University–Industry R&D Collaboration’ indicator under Pillar 5: Business Sophistication measures the level of R&D collaboration between universities and industry in each country. It relies on data from the Executive Opinion Survey conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF), which assesses business leaders’ perceptions regarding the quality and effectiveness of joint R&D efforts—specifically how well they meet industry needs, achieve practical application, and generate economic value.”

Therefore, this indicator does not merely evaluate the volume of research papers or joint projects; it reflects a country’s capacity to transform knowledge into economic impact through cross-sector collaboration—a core hallmark of a mature innovation ecosystem.

The case of Tleum Co., Ltd. serves as a clear illustration of this concept. By licensing pilot-scale research and patents for Silica Aerogel, the private sector scaled the technology into full industrial production, yielding various commercial products globally—ranging from heat-reflective coatings and heat-resistant materials to oil absorbents and cosmetics.

This outcome underscores the importance of the NIA as an Innovation Intermediary that reduces technical and financial risks for businesses. Beyond this case, the NIA continues to drive numerous initiatives—funding, networking, tech startup incubation, and University Spin-offs—ensuring academic innovations translate into market-ready products, services, and new ventures that deliver true economic impact and strengthen Thailand’s long-term competitive position.

Hashtag: #NIA #NationalInnovationAgency

https://www.nia.or.th/

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