Industry News

Singaporean scientists from the ASTAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology have made a breakthrough in understanding gastric cancer recurrence by identifying cancer stem cells marked by the protein Aquaporin5 (AQP5). Published in the journal Science, the study reveals that targeting these AQP5-expressing cells can prevent tumours from regrowing, even in advanced stages where cancer has spread to other organs.

Gastric cancer is a major health issue in Singapore and Asia, with high recurrence rates contributing to poor survival outcomes. The disease often returns after initial treatment, spreading to organs like the liver or lungs. Researchers have long suspected that a small population of cancer stem cells survives conventional therapies, leading to tumour regrowth.

The ASTAR team discovered that AQP5 not only marks these cancer stem cells but also contributes to their aggressive behaviour. By eliminating AQP5-expressing cells in laboratory models, researchers observed that tumours stopped growing or shrank and did not recur. This finding offers a promising target for developing new therapies aimed at achieving lasting remission for patients.

Prof Nick Barker, Senior Principal Scientist at ASTAR IMCB, stated, “These findings give us a defined target to pursue. We are now working to develop therapies against AQP5-expressing cells that could offer patients a better chance of lasting remission.”

The research team is currently developing AQP5-specific antibodies and evaluating drug candidates, with plans for preclinical studies. Any potential therapy will require clinical trials before becoming available to patients, a process that typically spans several years.

Delta Electronics Singapore has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the College of Design and Engineering at the National University of Singapore (NUS) to develop advanced technologies for sustainable data centres. This three-year partnership aims to leverage the Sustainable Tropical Data Centre Testbed (STDCT) to focus on smart energy systems, advanced thermal management, and modular infrastructure suitable for tropical environments.

The collaboration is set to explore integrating Delta’s autonomous inspection robots to enhance safety, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance in data centres. PS Tang, General Manager of Delta Electronics Singapore, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “Data centres have become the backbone of our digital future, evolving into AI factories that drive innovation and connectivity. Yet they also represent one of the most energy-intensive infrastructures.”

Professor Silvija Gradecak, Vice Dean of Research and Technology at NUS, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting it provides an opportunity for researchers and students to translate academic discoveries into impactful industrial applications. Professor Lee Poh Seng, Head of Mechanical Engineering at NUS, added that the collaboration aims to create scalable solutions contributing to Singapore’s sustainability goals.

This initiative aligns with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and Smart Nation goals, aiming to develop resilient and sustainable digital infrastructure. As the partnership progresses, it is expected to set new standards for eco-friendly data centre technologies, potentially influencing global practices in sustainable digital infrastructure development.

The recent Government Land Sales (GLS) tender for a mixed-residential and commercial site at Hougang Avenue 10/Hougang Central has closed with a top bid of S$1.5b. This bid, submitted by an undisclosed developer, is 2.1% higher than the second-highest bid of S$1.47b. The site, strategically located above Hougang MRT station on the North-East Line, is poised to become a significant draw for homebuyers, particularly HDB upgraders from nearby estates.

The development’s appeal is bolstered by its integration with a future bus interchange and the upcoming Cross Island Line, enhancing connectivity to Singapore’s city centre and other regions. Leonard Tay, Head of Research at Knight Frank Singapore, noted that such integrated developments typically attract interest due to their convenience and accessibility. “The mixed-use nature of the site allows for the creation of a suburban neighbourhood, that would become even more of a human activity magnet for Hougang,” he stated.

The project will feature a substantial retail component, potentially exceeding 400,000 square feet in gross floor area, surpassing the nearby Hougang Mall. This retail space is expected to enhance the area’s liveability by offering curated food and beverage options, daily necessities, and community-oriented services.

With the top bid reflecting a land rate of S$1,179 per square foot per plot ratio, the potential selling price for residential units could start from S$2,500 per square foot, with average prices possibly exceeding S$2,600 per square foot. The development’s comprehensive amenities and strategic location are anticipated to attract buyers from across Singapore, further cementing Hougang’s status as a vibrant suburban hub.

The National Museum of Singapore (NMS) is marking the nation’s 60th anniversary of independence with two new exhibits that explore Singapore’s journey from a settlement to a global city. These experiences, titled “Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City” and “Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time,” aim to highlight the country’s transformation and significant milestones over the past 700 years.

“Once Upon a Tide” offers visitors an immersive experience, tracing Singapore’s evolution from its early days as a settlement to its current status as a bustling metropolis. Meanwhile, “Singapore Odyssea” provides a chronological journey through the nation’s history, showcasing key events and developments that have shaped its identity.

These exhibits are part of the museum’s efforts to engage the public with Singapore’s rich history and cultural heritage. By presenting these stories in an engaging and interactive manner, the NMS hopes to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the nation’s past and present.

The museum’s initiative underscores the importance of preserving and sharing Singapore’s history, especially as the country continues to evolve. As the NMS celebrates this significant milestone, it invites both locals and tourists to explore these new experiences and reflect on the nation’s remarkable journey.

Singapore Airshow 2026, marking its 10th edition, will take place from 3 to 8 February 2026 at Changi Exhibition Centre. This biennial event, a key platform for the aerospace and defence sectors, will feature over 1,000 companies from more than 50 countries. A new addition, Space Summit 2026, will be held from 2 to 3 February at Marina Bay Sands, expanding the event’s scope to include space industry discussions.

The Airshow, since its inception in 2008, has become a significant gateway to Asia Pacific’s aviation markets. This year’s event will see participation from major players like Airbus, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin, alongside next-generation defence technology companies such as Helsing and Shield AI. Country pavilions will include expanded presences from Italy and China.

Managing Director of Experia Events, Leck Chet Lam, highlighted the Airshow’s evolution, stating, “This edition underscores our continued commitment to supporting the region’s growth and fostering meaningful collaboration.”

Sustainability will be a focal point, with initiatives like sustainable aviation fuel and net-zero strategies being showcased. Neste, a leader in renewable fuels, will participate as the Sustainable Aviation Partner, discussing sustainable aviation pathways.

The Airshow will also host the AeroForum, addressing industry priorities like cybersecurity and advanced air mobility. The AeroConnect platform will facilitate networking, whilst AeroCampus will inspire future aerospace talent.

The public can enjoy the Weekend Airshow on 7 and 8 February, featuring aerial performances and aircraft displays. Tickets are available from 10 December 2025. The event promises to be a comprehensive showcase of aviation and space innovation, setting the stage for future advancements.

Campbell Johnston Clark (CJC) has successfully assisted Yangzijiang Maritime Development (YMD) in securing its primary listing on the Main Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (SGX-ST). This achievement has resulted in a market capitalisation of approximately S$2.15b for YMD.

The London-based team at CJC, led by James Clayton, Partner and head of the Commercial and Finance practice, and Consultant Alastair Macaulay, played a pivotal role in this process. Clayton remarked, “This project was a real highlight for our commercial team in 2025, and offered an excellent demonstration of CJC’s capabilities across a broad range of requirements as English, Marshall Islands and Liberian legal counsel in bringing YMD to market.”

The listing process involved collaboration with several legal entities, including Rajah & Tann Singapore as lead counsel, Carey Olsen Singapore for British Virgin Islands law, DeHeng Law Offices for PRC law, and Arias Fabrega & Fabrega for Panama law.

YMD, incorporated in Singapore, focuses on investing in vessels for charter and sale, alongside offering financing solutions such as sale-and-leasebacks and pre-delivery loans. This listing follows the earlier public offerings of Yangzijiang Shipbuilding in 2007 and Yangzijiang Financial Holdings in 2022.

Ren Yuanlin, Executive Chairman and CEO of YMD, expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We see tremendous growth opportunities for Yangzijiang Maritime. This milestone reflects our vision in the potential of our maritime platform, as we continue to create long-term value and work towards sustainable and transformative growth.”

Singapore and Brazil have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a partnership focused on climate action. This agreement, announced today, seeks to bolster collaboration between the two nations in addressing climate change through sustainable development and environmental protection initiatives. The MoU outlines joint efforts to share knowledge, technology, and best practices in areas such as renewable energy, carbon markets, and biodiversity conservation.

The partnership is significant as it represents a commitment from both countries to tackle global environmental challenges. By pooling resources and expertise, Singapore and Brazil aim to develop innovative solutions that can be implemented both locally and globally. This collaboration is expected to facilitate the exchange of ideas and technologies that can drive progress in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

The MoU also highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change, a pressing issue that requires collective action from nations worldwide. By working together, Singapore and Brazil hope to set an example for other countries to follow, demonstrating that partnerships can lead to meaningful progress in combating environmental issues.

As the world continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, this partnership between Singapore and Brazil underscores the need for collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable development goals. The MoU is a step forward in fostering international cooperation and innovation in the fight against climate change.

Musée Platinum Tokyo, a prominent beauty brand with over 15 years of presence in Singapore, has launched its DUO Hydrogen Treatment across all its salons in the city-state. This non-invasive treatment is designed for individuals with sensitive, acne-prone, eczema-prone, or reactive skin, and can be applied to the face, scalp, and body, including delicate areas.

The DUO Hydrogen Treatment offers a gentle approach to skincare, aiming to calm irritation, support hydration, and enhance skin resilience. It is particularly recommended for those experiencing redness, dryness, or sensitivity due to environmental stressors or Singapore’s humid climate. The launch comes in response to a growing demand for effective yet gentle treatments that support deeper skin recovery and long-term resilience.

The treatment is designed to complement existing aesthetic services, such as body hair removal, with a focus on improving overall skin health. With this new offering, Musée Platinum Tokyo aims to meet the needs of Singaporeans looking for advanced skincare solutions, potentially setting a new standard in the beauty industry.

Standard Chartered has launched a blockchain-based tokenised deposits solution for Ant International, enabling real-time treasury management in Singapore Dollars (SGD) and United States Dollars (USD). This initiative, built on the learnings from the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s Guardian initiative, allows Ant International to future-proof its treasury operations with 24/7 liquidity movement.

The solution marks a significant milestone in Standard Chartered’s tokenisation journey, setting a blueprint for commercial banks to transition funds from traditional ledgers to blockchain technology. This advancement highlights the benefits of distributed ledger technology, including immutability, speed, and efficiency.

Mahesh Kini, Global Head of Cash Management at Standard Chartered, emphasised the growing demand for real-time liquidity, stating, “As corporates and institutions increasingly rely on ‘just in time’ liquidity, demand for real-time and 24/7 treasury management is rapidly accelerating.” He added that the collaboration with Ant International is part of the bank’s ongoing efforts to innovate and provide seamless blockchain-based solutions.

Ankur Kanwar, Head of Transaction Banking Singapore and ASEAN at Standard Chartered, noted the broader implications for Singapore’s financial landscape, saying, “This is a significant step forward in our journey to support Singapore’s growth as a leading digital finance hub.”

The tokenised deposit solution not only enhances liquidity management for Ant International but also facilitates transactions in multiple currencies, including Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) and Chinese Yuan (CNH), across different markets. This development underscores the potential of tokenised deposits to improve settlement efficiency and enable new financial use cases.

Prism, a newly established managing general agent (MGA) headquartered in Singapore, has officially launched its operations in the Asia Pacific region, including Hong Kong, as of 18 December 2025. Backed by Convex and Efinity Insurance Solutions, Prism aims to provide innovative, technology-driven underwriting solutions in Marine Cargo, Onshore Energy, Power, and Renewables.

The launch of Prism marks a significant development in the insurance landscape, as it combines underwriting talent with advanced technology, data, and analytics to offer new capacity and expertise to clients and brokers. “Prism is entering the market at a pivotal time,” said Bobby Heerasing, CEO and CUO of Prism. “We are building a legacy-free, tech-enabled MGA that combines underwriting discipline with transparency and long-term value for capital partners.”

Prism’s founding team includes industry veterans such as Heerasing, Jason Smith, and Sergei Korol, who bring decades of experience in the insurance and reinsurance sectors. The company has secured strategic partnerships with Convex, which will provide underwriting capacity and expertise, and Efinity Insurance Solutions, which will offer operational and platform support.

The MGA plans to expand its offerings in Q1 2026 to include Facultative Property and Political Violence/Terrorism. John Potter, Head of Marine at Convex, expressed support for the launch, stating, “This investment is a perfect example of our strategic approach — backing exceptional teams with deep expertise and local insight.”

Prism’s approach is characterised by its legacy-free, technology-driven model, aiming to deliver efficiency, transparency, and scalability. As the company begins its journey, it seeks to blend Asia’s growth opportunities with mature portfolios in North America and Europe, positioning itself as a significant player in the region’s insurance market.