Regional News

UOB Kay Hian (UOBKH) has released its latest regional market updates, focusing on key sectors in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. The report, dated 4 April 2025, provides insights into the plantation, construction, real estate investment trusts (REITs), banking, and property sectors across these countries.

Singapore’s REITs sector is reportedly starting to regain lost ground, whilst ComfortDelGro Corporation is facing increased competition with the entry of new players. UOBKH maintains a “Buy” rating for ComfortDelGro, with a target price of S$1.76.

In Malaysia, the plantation sector is expected to experience limited direct impact from the US’ reciprocal trade tariffs, as US imports constitute a minor portion of Malaysia’s palm oil exports. UOBKH maintains a “Market Weight” rating for the sector. Meanwhile, Sunway Construction continues to demonstrate robust earnings growth and strong orderbook replenishments, with UOBKH reiterating a “Buy” recommendation and a target price of RM5.05.

In Thailand, the banking sector’s earnings sensitivity is being closely monitored based on financial target guidance. The property sector, however, has been downgraded to “Underweight” following an earthquake that has shaken investor confidence.

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CGS International’s latest ESG update reveals that its portfolio has returned 22.3% since May 2024, underperforming the MSCI SG Index’s 24.9% return. Despite this, the portfolio outperformed the MSCI Singapore ESG Price Return Index, which saw a 16.96% increase. The performance disparity is attributed to the price outperformance and heavier index weightings of companies like SE, GRAB, and financial institutions such as DBS, OCBC, and UOB, compared to CGS International’s equal-weight portfolio.

The Singapore government remains committed to its Green Plan 2030, with no significant policy changes in the recent budget. New initiatives include incentives for electric heavy vehicles, a voucher scheme for energy-efficient consumer durables, and an expansion of the public transport network.

Globally, sustainable fund assets reached a new peak of $3.2t by the end of 2024, marking an 8% year-on-year increase. Europe continues to dominate the sustainable fund landscape, holding over 80% of global assets, whilst the US has seen a decline to 13%. The US administration’s rollback of ESG initiatives has contributed to this decrease.

CGS International has decided to maintain its current ESG portfolio, citing the fundamental growth drivers and ESG credentials of its selected stocks. The portfolio includes companies such as CD, CLI, KEP, PAN, SCI, ST, STE, STM, UOB, and YZJSGD.
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Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has announced significant updates to the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment, set to take effect from 1 November 2025. The revised code aims to create a more inclusive environment by mandating accessibility features in all new buildings and those undergoing renovations.

The Code Review Committee, formed in September 2023, included representatives from social services, industry stakeholders, academic institutions, and government agencies. The committee’s review addressed gaps in the previous code and anticipated future needs for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and families with young children.

Minister Indranee Rajah emphasised that the update is about more than infrastructure. “It is about creating a society that enables every individual to participate fully and move around safely and independently,” she said.

Key improvements include enhanced wheelchair accessibility, safer ramp designs for the elderly, and increased lactation rooms for families. The code also introduces standardised tactile indicators for the visually impaired and improved signage for those hard of hearing.

Judy Wee, Executive Director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association Singapore, expressed optimism about the changes, noting tangible improvements in daily life for persons with disabilities. Jeffrey Wong from the Real Estate Developers Association of Singapore highlighted the collaborative effort in shaping the new code.

The updated code will be available on the BCA’s website, and building owners are encouraged to utilise the Accessibility Fund for voluntary upgrades. The initiative reflects Singapore’s commitment to a more inclusive society.
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InstaChef Pro has launched Singapore’s first full-stack AI food solution, the K Series automated kitchen, at the FHA-Food & Beverage 2025 event. Running from 8 to 11 April 2025, this showcase highlights a significant advancement in kitchen technology, offering businesses a streamlined approach to food preparation with reduced manpower and space requirements.

Since its debut in August 2023, InstaChef has installed over 70 units in various locations, including schools and hospitals. Developed by AiKit, a local tech company, the K Series features a menu of over 300 fresh, halal-certified dishes, such as Chicken and Salted Fish Claypot Rice and Thai Basil Chicken with Rice. The system is designed to address modern kitchen challenges by combining AI-powered technology with a comprehensive ready-to-cook menu.

The K Series provides a full end-to-end solution, eliminating the need for exhaust or drainage systems, thus lowering setup and operational costs. This innovation allows businesses to launch quickly and scale efficiently, with reduced ingredient waste and overheads. The system can prepare up to 12 dishes in three minutes, supported by a cloud kitchen management system for rapid expansion.

Visitors to FHA-Food & Beverage 2025 can witness live demonstrations of the K Series, sampling dishes like Sambal Fried Rice and Black Truffle Pasta. Exclusive discounts and franchising opportunities are available for those interested in adopting the InstaChef model.
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Researchers from Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR) and the National Healthcare Group (NHG) have unveiled a groundbreaking imaging technique that could revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most prevalent form of skin cancer globally. By integrating Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography (MSOT) with artificial intelligence (AI), this innovative method promises faster, more accurate, and less painful treatment planning for patients.

The advanced technique utilises photoacoustic imaging (PAI) enhanced by an automated segmentation algorithm to deliver real-time, high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) images of skin tumours. This allows for precise mapping of tumour boundaries, aiding doctors in surgical planning and reducing the likelihood of repeat procedures. The findings have been published in the European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging.

BCC is increasingly common in Singapore, particularly among the ageing population. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as biopsies and Mohs micrographic surgery, can be uncomfortable and time-consuming. The new approach, developed by ASTAR Skin Research Labs and NHG’s National Skin Centre (NSC), combines an advanced segmentation algorithm with PAI to automatically identify the shape and size of skin tumours, expediting the diagnostic process.

The technology, currently being tested at NSC, has shown promising early results. Eight patients participated in a pilot study where MSOT scans closely matched existing diagnostic methods. Prof Malini Olivo, a co-author of the study, stated, “Early results have been very promising, showing strong alignment with existing diagnostic methods.”

Whilst the current focus is on BCC, researchers believe the technology could be adapted for other skin cancer types. Prof Steven Thng, Deputy Director at NSC, expressed excitement about the potential to individualise surgery, reducing mortality and morbidity for patients.
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Regional Container Lines (RCL) has announced a strategic partnership with Lloyd’s Register OneOcean to optimise its fleet operations and reduce emissions. By subscribing to LR OneOcean’s voyage optimisation platform, RCL seeks to improve fuel efficiency, cut carbon emissions, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

The collaboration involves integrating advanced route optimisation technology, which offers real-time voyage planning, dynamic weather routing, and intelligent speed management. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce fuel consumption and enhance cargo delivery reliability across RCL’s 38-vessel operation.

Jeff Mattick, Customer Success Director at LR OneOcean, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are proud to support RCL in their digital transformation journey. Our voyage optimisation platform provides the insights and intelligence needed to make strategic, real-time decisions that improve fuel efficiency, enhance voyage planning, and optimise overall fleet performance.”

Captain Phakphum Meejaroen of RCL highlighted the importance of the partnership, saying, “At RCL, we are dedicated to delivering reliable, efficient, and sustainable shipping solutions. Partnering with LR OneOcean allows us to leverage advanced technology to optimise our fleet’s performance, reduce fuel costs, and enhance our service offering to customers.”

LR OneOcean’s solution, backed by over 15 years of expertise in route optimisation and vessel performance, promises measurable environmental and commercial benefits. This partnership marks a significant step in RCL’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainability, potentially setting a precedent for future collaborations in the maritime industry.
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Singapore’s burgeoning beauty and personal care sector is drawing attention from potential new businesses. As demand for cosmetic products continues to rise, Dentons Rodyk & Davidson LLP has released a guide detailing the essential legal requirements for importers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers looking to enter this lucrative market. The guide aims to equip businesses with the necessary knowledge to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

The guide highlights several key legal considerations that must be addressed before launching cosmetic products in Singapore. These include compliance with the Health Sciences Authority’s regulations, which oversee the safety and efficacy of cosmetic products. Additionally, businesses must ensure proper labelling and advertising practices to avoid misleading consumers.

Marian Ho, a senior partner at Dentons, emphasised the importance of understanding these legal frameworks. “Navigating the regulatory environment is crucial for any business looking to succeed in Singapore’s competitive cosmetic market,” she stated.

The guide also addresses the need for businesses to be aware of intellectual property rights to protect their brands and products. This is particularly relevant in a market where innovation and brand differentiation are key to capturing consumer interest.

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Singapore’s technology sector experienced a notable increase in funding during March, with a 30% rise compared to the previous month, according to the latest data from Tracxn. This surge is attributed to heightened investor interest in the region’s burgeoning tech industry.

The data, compiled by Tracxn, highlights a significant uptick in investment activity, with several high-profile deals contributing to the overall growth. Notably, the fintech and healthtech sectors attracted the most attention, securing substantial funding rounds that underscored their potential for innovation and growth.

Ruchira Kondepudi from Tracxn commented on the findings, stating, “The increase in funding reflects the growing confidence investors have in Singapore’s tech ecosystem. The region’s strategic location and supportive regulatory environment make it an attractive destination for tech investments.”

Looking ahead, the sustained interest from investors is expected to fuel further growth in Singapore’s tech landscape, potentially positioning the city-state as a leading hub for technological advancements in Asia.
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Antica Foundation officially launched on 5 April 2025 during the SiGlap 60 Carnival, an event attended by Dr Maliki Osman, Second Minister for Education and Foreign Affairs. The foundation is committed to empowering seniors and ex-offenders in Singapore through innovative programmes and strategic partnerships.

The foundation’s initiatives include Project GUARDIAN, which installs fall detection sensors in the homes of low-income seniors at high risk of falls, ensuring their safety and well-being. Another key programme, Project SECOND WINGS, supports ex-offenders with vocational training, career development, and mentoring to aid their reintegration into society. Additionally, Antica Foundation promotes intergenerational dialogue through workshops and community activities, fostering empathy and strengthening community bonds.

Executive Director Dixon Lim emphasised the foundation’s mission to create a supportive environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can learn, grow, and rebuild their lives. “Our goal is to drive positive social change by integrating technology, community partnerships, and holistic resources,” Lim stated.

The foundation collaborates with partners such as Yellow Ribbon Singapore, Temasek Polytechnic, and the Silver Generation Office to enhance the quality of life for vulnerable communities. Chaired by Andre Tanoto, Antica Foundation aims to raise awareness of how different communities can be supported through its impactful initiatives.

As the foundation embarks on its mission, it seeks to bring more awareness to its causes and efforts, hoping to inspire further social responsibility and community empowerment across Singapore.
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Jobstreet by SEEK has unveiled a new approach to recruitment in Singapore, launching holistic hiring solutions that aim to address the evolving challenges faced by employers. Moving away from the traditional “pay to post” model, Jobstreet now offers unlimited free ads, allowing customers to pay based on performance. This shift is complemented by the introduction of SmartHire, an AI-driven recruiting service, and SEEK Pass, a platform developed in partnership with the Ministry of Manpower and SkillsFuture Singapore to verify work credentials.

Singapore’s recruitment landscape in 2025 is marked by budget constraints and a competitive labour market, with nearly half of job vacancies being new roles. Jobstreet’s innovations are designed to help employers navigate these challenges, particularly as the company has seen a 146% year-over-year increase in job applications per ad, far exceeding the Asian average of 57%.

The new solutions include:

– **Pay for Performance**: Employers can post unlimited job listings and pay for premium features to enhance visibility, with access to over 3 million registered jobseekers.
– **SmartHire**: This service uses AI to match employers with suitable candidates, reducing time-to-hire and improving match quality. Fees are charged only upon successful hiring, offering a 50% cost-saving compared to traditional methods.
– **SEEK Pass**: This platform allows jobseekers to verify their credentials, making them 16% more likely to be shortlisted by employers.

Vic Sithasanan, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK in Singapore, stated, “The recruitment landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation, driven by the increasing use of AI in hiring and a growing emphasis on skills-based hiring.” These innovations are set to empower employers and jobseekers alike, fostering transparency, trust, and efficiency in the hiring process.
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