Regional News

Aventis Graduate School has announced the launch of a new suite of postgraduate qualifications aimed at addressing the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. These programmes, designed for professionals and aspiring leaders, focus on integrating artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and healthcare innovation. The offerings include the Graduate Diploma in Gerontology & Active Ageing, the Graduate Diploma in Health Sciences & Services Management, the Master of Science (MSc) in Health Psychology, and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management.

The programmes are delivered in a flexible, part-time format, ranging from six to 10 months, allowing healthcare practitioners to acquire cutting-edge skills whilst continuing their careers. Dr Christopher Fong, Programme Director at Aventis, highlighted the importance of these new offerings, stating, “Healthcare today demands leaders who are not only clinically competent but also technologically savvy and strategically agile.”

The Graduate Diploma in Gerontology & Active Ageing provides a comprehensive understanding of the ageing process, focusing on health psychology and person-centred care. It challenges stereotypes of ageing and promotes a positive, inclusive perspective. Meanwhile, the Graduate Diploma in Health Sciences & Services Management combines management principles with healthcare innovation, preparing graduates to lead organisational change.

The MBA in Healthcare Management and the MSc in Health Psychology are tailored for those seeking global leadership roles, emphasising business strategy and responsible leadership. Samantha Ong, President of the Singapore Nurses Association, noted the strategic partnership with Aventis, which enhances educational opportunities for Singapore’s nursing community.

These programmes aim to cultivate healthcare professionals capable of navigating complexity and driving sustainable, inclusive healthcare systems.
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Visa has unveiled its Gen Z Decoded study, shedding light on the values and behaviours of Singapore’s Gen Zs, a group poised to become the nation’s next economic drivers. The study reveals that 47% of Singaporean Gen Zs, aged 14 to 27, prioritise financial independence and security, significantly higher than the Asia Pacific average of 33%. Despite their digital fluency, only 36% feel confident managing their finances, with 68% familiar with saving but just 30% understanding investing.

The study highlights the importance of financial management knowledge for this generation, with 65% owning a debit card and 32% having a digital bank account. In the coming year, 22% aim to own time deposits, and 20% plan to acquire credit cards for rewards. Adeline Kim, Visa’s Country Manager for Singapore & Brunei, noted, 41% of Gen Z consumers prefer quick and convenient payment methods, and over half choose based on rewards.

Social media plays a pivotal role in Gen Zs’ shopping habits, with 40% making purchases after seeing ads and 33% trusting only genuine influencers. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are key engagement channels, with 62%, 57%, and 48% of Gen Zs spending most of their time on these platforms, respectively.

The study underscores the need for businesses to adapt to Gen Zs’ expectations by offering seamless, experience-driven interactions. As this generation continues to integrate social media into their shopping journeys, brands that prioritise authenticity and community-driven engagement will forge stronger connections.
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Tiong Seng Engineering Solutions, through its subsidiary Robin Village Development, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Rock Africa Limited to develop advanced precast capabilities in Ghana. This partnership, witnessed by Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, aims to supply Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) and other precast components for large-scale housing and infrastructure projects in the country.

The collaboration will kick off with a pilot project in Accra, constructing a hostel with four blocks and approximately 2,280 rooms to accommodate up to 10,000 beds. Robin Village Development will provide design engineering, shop drawings, and training to build a skilled local workforce for factory production and on-site installation. This initiative aligns with Ghana’s national agenda for affordable housing, job creation, and industrialisation, whilst also enhancing Singapore-Ghana collaboration in advanced construction methods.

By introducing Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) methods, including PPVC and Prefabricated Bathroom Units, the partnership aims to improve build quality, shorten delivery times, and enhance site safety. Francis Bullen Gavor, Director of Rock Africa Limited, stated, “Ghana’s housing and infrastructure ambitions require new approaches. Our partnership with RVD will help us industrialise construction, improve quality, and create skilled jobs for Ghanaians.”

Pek Zhi Kai, Director of Tiong Seng Engineering Solutions, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the potential for technology transfer and best practices. Darius Lim, Managing Director of Robin Village Development, emphasised the importance of combining advanced precast solutions with Ghana’s ambitions to deliver faster, safer, and higher-quality housing.

This partnership marks a significant step in Tiong Seng’s international growth, positioning the company to capitalise on emerging opportunities beyond Singapore.
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Space Summit 2026 has revealed its conference agenda as the global space economy experiences unprecedented growth, with projections reaching $1.8t by 2035. Scheduled for 2–3 February at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands Singapore, the summit will coincide with the Singapore Airshow 2026. The event aims to address capability, regulatory, and investment gaps in the space sector, fostering an inclusive and sustainable future.

Themed “New Frontiers: Shaping a Responsible and Inclusive Space Future”, the summit will gather national space agencies, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders from around the globe. Organised by Experia Events and endorsed by the Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn), the summit will feature discussions on critical infrastructure, dual-use technologies, and the future in-space economy.

Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director of Experia Events, emphasised the summit’s role in fostering global dialogue and partnerships. “Space Summit 2026 will bring together partners whose collaboration will extend across the global space ecosystem. It is about open dialogue, developing partnerships and meaningful connections between public and private sectors,” he stated.

The summit will also spotlight regional initiatives, such as the Earth Observation Initiative, which leverages satellite technology for sustainability and humanitarian challenges. Jonathan Hung, Executive Director of OSTIn, highlighted the summit’s potential to drive economic growth and innovation in Singapore’s space sector.

As Singapore advances its space ambitions, with initiatives like the Space Technology Development Programme, Space Summit 2026 is poised to be a pivotal event for shaping the future of the space industry in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
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The Institute of Technical Education and TP-Link Corporation have joined forces to enhance the technical skills of students in Singapore, aligning with the nation’s Smart Nation initiative. The partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, will provide hands-on ICT training, global certifications, and industry exposure to approximately 600 students annually, totalling 1,800 over the partnership’s duration.

The collaboration focuses on developing skills in networking and surveillance technologies, crucial for Singapore’s digital infrastructure plans. Students will have access to three new Continuing Education and Training  courses: Omada Certified Network Administrator (OCNA) for wireless networks, OCNA for routing and switching, and VIGI Certified Security Administrator for surveillance systems. These courses are designed to equip students with industry-recognised qualifications and practical experience.

TP-Link will also offer internships, placements, and structured industry learning journeys, providing pathways to permanent roles. The initiative aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in Singapore’s ICT and security sectors, particularly in roles requiring hands-on technical expertise.

Hugo Cai, Regional Director of TP-Link, stated, “By bringing industry expertise into the classroom and aligning training with real-world demands, we’re not only supporting local education but also investing in the future of Southeast Asia’s digital workforce.”

This partnership is expected to nurture a new generation of ICT and security professionals who are both technically skilled and workforce-ready, bridging the gap between education and industry needs.
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As Singapore marks its 60th year of independence, a new survey by Prudential Singapore reveals that 51% of Gen Zs, aged 16 to 28, are confident about retiring comfortably. However, 72% admit they have no concrete retirement plan. The SG60 Financial Future Poll, conducted in July 2025, surveyed 1,000 Singapore residents aged 17 to 76, exploring retirement readiness across generations.

Gen Zs, primarily students and new workforce entrants, focus on increasing their earning potential before saving for retirement. They prioritise multiple income streams, with 41% expressing this preference. Additionally, 60% of Gen Zs value career advancement over work-life balance, unlike older generations. Many aim for remote work opportunities and micro-retirements, with 54% planning to retire by 60 and 20% by 50.

Prudential Financial Advisers Singapore CEO, Jeff Ang, noted, “Gen Zs are confident about the next 60 years because they have grown up in a nation that has flourished and provided them with the opportunities to thrive.”

Baby Boomers, aged 55 and above, wish they had started financial planning 12 years earlier. Nearly all Baby Boomers (94%) expressed regret over their financial planning approach, with 61% wishing they had developed stronger financial habits sooner.

The poll highlights the importance of early financial planning, with Ang advising, “Starting small and staying consistent can go a long way, especially with the power of compounding.”

The survey also found that CPF savings and bank savings are the primary retirement funding sources for most respondents, with younger generations more inclined to invest in index mutual funds and ETFs. Ang emphasised the need for a diversified wealth portfolio, including health insurance, to ensure financial security in later years.
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CGS International, in collaboration with Ogier Global Singapore, hosted the inaugural Capital Conversations by the Bay on 28 August. The event brought together investors, fund managers, and advisers to explore how private capital can be unlocked as a strategic funding source in Asia. The discussions focused on asset allocation, governance, tax efficiency, and long-term investment opportunities.

The programme featured two panels. The first, led by Zhenghao Phua of CGS International, included Bryan Goh of Tsao Family Office and Ashish Goyal of OMERS. They discussed global market trends, highlighting the importance of diversification across asset classes and regions. Phua noted the divergence in market performance, with US dollar investments holding up and non-US markets showing strong gains.

The second panel, moderated by Hoan Nguyen of Ogier Global Singapore, examined the challenges of the current fundraising environment. Panellists, including Tervinder Chal of Ogier Global Singapore and Ryan Lin of Bayfront Law, discussed the evolving regulatory landscape in Singapore and the role of private wealth in capital formation. Chal emphasised the importance of investor alignment and robust governance in navigating the difficult fundraising climate.

CGS International expressed gratitude to all participants for their contributions to the event, which aims to foster meaningful dialogue and peer exchange among investment leaders in the region. Capital Conversations by the Bay will continue to serve as a platform for market intelligence and strategic discussions.
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DNV has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to further maritime innovation and talent development. This collaboration, announced on 28 August 2025, aims to enhance Singapore’s maritime capabilities through a focus on decarbonisation, digitalisation, and education.

The renewed MoU builds on a 2022 framework, expanding efforts to support Singapore’s maritime ambitions. DNV will provide expertise in maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation, contributing to SIT’s Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering Joint Degree Programme. The partnership will also see the co-development of postgraduate programmes tailored to industry needs.

SIT will utilise DNV’s Simulation Trust Centre to advance research and education in ship and system design, focusing on energy management and autonomous operations. The collaboration includes integrated work-study attachments, capstone projects, and the promotion of industrial doctorate and master pathways to enhance maritime professionals’ skills. DNV experts may also serve as adjunct or joint professors at SIT.

Bernard Nee, Deputy President of Industry and Community at SIT, highlighted the partnership’s role in driving maritime innovation and sustainability. “By harnessing DNV’s extensive expertise and global insights, we aim to develop impactful solutions in maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, and autonomous systems,” he stated.

Antony M Dsouza, Regional President and Director for Southeast Asia Pacific and India Maritime at DNV, emphasised the importance of building competence in the industry. “This renewed collaboration with SIT brings together DNV’s technical leadership and SIT’s academic strengths to support the development of professionals equipped to contribute to a more efficient and resilient maritime sector,” he said.

The partnership will also engage with industry partners on research initiatives under the Sustainable Maritime Engineering Strategic Translational Research Programme, focusing on zero-emission ships, remote control systems, and future fuels. Additionally, DNV and SIT will work with the Singapore Maritime Foundation to advance Competency-Based Education, ensuring graduates possess the practical skills required by the evolving maritime sector.
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ZUZU Hospitality, a leading revenue management and distribution platform for independent hotels in Southeast Asia and India, has successfully raised US$5.9 million in a Series B-Extension funding round. The investment, led by Wavemaker Growth, with participation from existing investors Velocity Ventures and Vulpes Ventures, as well as new investor Latin Leap, is set to bolster ZUZU’s mission to empower independent hotels with advanced technology and expertise.

The funding comes at a crucial time as Southeast Asia’s hotel market experiences rapid growth and fragmentation, with many independent hotels struggling to compete with global chains. ZUZU’s comprehensive tech stack is designed to bridge this gap, enabling these hotels to maximise revenue and capture a fair share of demand from online channels. The company reports that its platform has already contributed to a 30-40% increase in occupancy rates for its clients.

Vikram Malhi, Founder and CEO of ZUZU Hospitality, emphasised the importance of levelling the playing field for independent hotels, stating that the new funding will accelerate their efforts in providing cutting-edge solutions. The investment will be used to further develop ZUZU’s AI-driven technology, ensuring that independent hotels can compete more effectively in the digital age.

As ZUZU continues to expand its reach and capabilities, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the hospitality industry, offering independent hotels the tools they need to thrive in a competitive market.
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Global law firm HFW has announced the appointment of Simon Bellas as a senior construction disputes partner in its Singapore office, marking a significant expansion of its international construction practice. Bellas, who previously led Jones Day’s Engineering, Procurement, Infrastructure and Construction practice in Australia, brings nearly 25 years of experience in complex construction and engineering disputes to HFW.

Bellas’s expertise spans offshore construction, oil and gas, renewable energy projects, mining, and transport infrastructure. His return to Singapore is a homecoming of sorts, having previously spent four years in the city-state before relocating to Melbourne in 2021. “I’m excited to be joining HFW and returning to Singapore, where I’ve worked closely with clients for many years,” Bellas said.

This appointment is part of HFW’s broader strategy to bolster its presence in the Asia Pacific region. The firm has added eight construction partners globally since the start of FY24, with recent hires in Perth, Hong Kong, and London. Michael Sergeant, Head of Construction at HFW, noted, “Simon is a standout addition to our expanding practice.”

Adam Richardson, Head of HFW’s Singapore office, emphasised the strategic alignment of Bellas’s expertise with the firm’s client base, particularly in offshore construction disputes. Bellas’s arrival follows the recent recruitment of other senior figures in Singapore, further solidifying HFW’s commitment to growth in the region.

HFW’s Singapore office, celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, now boasts nearly 40 lawyers as part of an Asia Pacific team of over 250 lawyers. The firm’s global construction practice includes 18 partners and more than 90 lawyers, advising on high-value developments worldwide.
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