One Universal Production Group (OUP), a prominent intellectual property ecosystem and tourism company in Asia, has officially opened its new corporate building in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This development marks a significant milestone in OUP’s mission to deliver world-class entertainment and educational experiences across the region.

The new facility is expected to bolster OUP’s capabilities in creating innovative content and attractions, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in the industry. The company has been instrumental in developing a range of entertainment and edutainment offerings that cater to diverse audiences across Asia.

During the event, OUP formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kayou Cultural Creativity Co., Ltd., China’s largest collectible card company. Under the partnership, Kayou will enter the Malaysian market alongside OUP, introducing new IP-driven collectible products and entertainment concepts aimed at Southeast Asian fans.

OUP also unveiled its upcoming international development roadmap, including the Hadi Excellence Collection – Thematic Safari Villas in the UAE, and the Hadi Premium Collection in Malaysia, featuring Malaysia’s first sea-front crystal-clear lagoon villas.

As OUP continues to innovate and expand, the new corporate building is set to play a crucial role in driving the company’s future growth and success in the competitive entertainment and tourism sectors.

Wawasan Dengkil Holdings Berhad has received shareholder approval for a joint venture to develop a 70 megawatt solar photovoltaic plant in Kedah, marking its strategic entry into the renewable energy sector. The joint venture, involving Wawasan Dengkil Sdn Bhd, Nestcon Infra Sdn Bhd, and WD Solar Kedah Sdn Bhd, will see the construction of the plant under the LSS Petra 5+ programme.

Wawasan Dengkil Sdn Bhd will hold a 70% stake in the joint venture, with Nestcon Infra Sdn Bhd holding the remaining 30%. The project, known as Project LSS5+, is expected to cost $39.6m (RM187m), with 85% financed through bank loans and the rest through equity and shareholder advances.

The diversification into renewable energy aligns with Malaysia’s growing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Executive Director Lim Soon Yik stated, “The Proposed Diversification reflects the Group’s strategic progression beyond our core construction activities.”

The solar plant is set to begin construction in Q3 2026, with operations expected by 29 February 2028. It will operate under a 21-year Solar Power Purchase Agreement with Tenaga Nasional Berhad, providing long-term income through renewable electricity sales.

Wawasan Dengkil continues to maintain a robust construction pipeline, managing 13 ongoing projects with an unbilled order book of $73.8m (RM348.7m). The company also recently secured a $3.4m (RM16.1m) contract for flood mitigation works in Selangor.

Looking forward, the company is optimistic about its prospects, supported by a tender book of $339.4m (RM1.6b) and Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap, which aims for a 70% renewable energy share by 2050.

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.

Datuk Seri Ir. Dr. Wee Ka Siong, a distinguished alumnus of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), has officially launched the TAR UMT Arena, a 15 million square foot hub designed to revolutionise higher education and youth development in Malaysia. The unveiling, attended by leaders from education, industry, and government, marks a significant investment in nurturing the nation’s future talent.

The TAR UMT Arena is set to redefine Malaysia’s approach to education by fostering innovation and holistic student development. Dr. Wee, known for his leadership as Malaysia’s Minister of Transport during the COVID-19 pandemic, has consistently demonstrated his commitment to nation-building through education and innovation. His career spans various senior national roles, including Deputy Minister of Education, where he focused on equitable access and quality reform.

Dr. Wee’s recent appointment as an investment adviser for the Chinese community in Malaysia, with a focus on the halal industry, highlights his ability to bridge engineering expertise with economic foresight. The TAR UMT Arena stands as a testament to Dr. Wee’s vision, embodying Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable innovation and youth empowerment. His journey from a UTM engineering student to a national leader exemplifies the university’s mission to cultivate graduates who integrate scientific knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility.

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.”

Standard Chartered and Ant International have transitioned their blockchain-based tokenised deposit solution from pilot to commercial launch, enabling real-time fund transfers across Hong Kong and Singapore. This innovative solution allows global entities to bypass traditional banking hours and settlement delays, facilitating seamless transactions in HKD, CNH, SGD, and USD.

The solution, developed on Ant International’s Whale blockchain platform, was created under the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s Project Ensemble and the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s Project Guardian. It marks a significant step in enhancing liquidity and efficiency in financial markets through tokenisation.

Mahesh Kini, Global Head of Cash Management at Standard Chartered, highlighted the growing demand for real-time and 24/7 treasury management, stating, “Driven by a shared vision of shaping the future of cash management, we are pleased to partner with Ant International from the conceptualisation to the commercial launch of this solution.”

The integration of Ant International’s bank accounts with tokenised deposits ensures a near real-time flow of liquidity, significantly improving the management of treasury and working capital. Kelvin Li, General Manager of Platform Tech at Ant International, noted, “The new solution enhances our liquidity management by providing seamless and secure access to the working capital needs of our businesses globally.”

This development is expected to encourage more global businesses to explore the benefits of tokenised deposits, contributing to the growth of tokenised assets in Hong Kong and Singapore. As both companies continue to innovate, they aim to set a blueprint for commercial banks to facilitate the transition from traditional banking ledgers to blockchain technology.