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MAWANI Adding the Shipping Service “FRS1” by “CSTAR LINE” to Jeddah Islamic Port

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Saudi Ports Authority “Mawani” has announced the addition of the new shipping service “FRS1” operated by CSTAR LINE to Jeddah Islamic Port, contributing to enhancing the port’s competitiveness, expanding its maritime service network, supporting its operational efficiency, and reinforcing its standing as a strategic logistics hub on the Red Sea coast.

MAWANI Adding the Shipping Service “FRS1” by “CSTAR LINE” to Jeddah Islamic Port
MAWANI Adding the Shipping Service “FRS1” by “CSTAR LINE” to Jeddah Islamic Port

The new shipping service links Jeddah Islamic Port with five regional and global ports, including Ningbo, Shanghai, and Nansha in China, Aqaba in Jordan, and Ain Sokhna in Egypt, with a handling capacity of up to 2,000 TEUs.

This step aligns with Mawani’s ongoing efforts to improve the Kingdom’s standing in global performance indicators and support national export movement, in line with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, to solidify the Kingdom’s standing as a global logistics hub bridging the three continents.

It is worth noting that Jeddah Islamic Port features a high handling capacity of 130 million tons, and advanced logistics services through 62 multipurpose berths, in addition to several specialized terminals and modern facilities, including two container terminals with a handling capacity of 7.5 million TEUs, two general cargo terminals, two dry docks for ship repair and marine unit maintenance, and a group of marine service berths.

 

Ricoh InnoAI Center Grand Launch Ushering in a New Era for the AI Ecosystem in Asia

HONG KONG, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ricoh Hong Kong Limited today held the grand opening ceremony of the Ricoh InnoAI Center at Cyberport, marking a significant milestone in the development of the local AI innovation ecosystem. The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Ricky Chong, Managing Director of Ricoh Hong Kong; Mr Eric Yu, General Manager, Digital Operations of Ricoh Hong Kong; Dr. Rocky Cheng, CEO of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited; and Ms. Georgina Chu, Chief Corporate Development Officer of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, along with representatives from Ricoh InnoAI’s partner network. The event showcased Ricoh’s strong commitment to advancing AI technology, real-world applications, talent development, and supporting partners in expanding into overseas markets.

The Ricoh InnoAI Strategy is built on a four-pillar framework: Center + Platform + Co-Creation + Ecosystem, forming a comprehensive AI innovation and commercialization ecosystem. The four key components include:

  • InnoAI Center: A physical co-creation space located at Cyberport, providing developers, startups, and enterprise clients with a collaborative environment and sandbox for AI development and application.
  • InnoAI Hub: A RAG-based knowledge management platform developed by Ricoh, enabling enterprises to build AI agents (e.g., for marketing or financial analysis) using their own uploaded data and documents. It also supports low-code development to streamline AI process management.
  • InnoAI Co-Creation: Expert-led collaboration services from Ricoh to help enterprises transform AI technologies into tangible business outcomes—realizing”AI to Business.”
  • InnoAI Program: A comprehensive accelerator program offering funding, technology, sales, and marketing resources to help partners grow rapidly.

Mr. Ricky Chong, Managing Director of Ricoh Hong Kong, stated“The Ricoh InnoAI Strategy is a forward-looking and holistic AI innovation framework. By integrating a physical center, a knowledge platform, co-creation support, and an ecosystem approach, we aim to connect local innovation with APAC markets. Our goal is to drive AI from R&D to commercialization and build a powerful AI ecosystem that positions Hong Kong as a regional innovation hub.”

Ms. Georgina Chu, Chief Corporate Development Officer of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, added“The Ricoh InnoAI Center injects powerful momentum into Cyberport’s AI and blockchain ecosystem. We are delighted to witness Ricoh’s forward-looking InnoAI strategy being implemented in Hong Kong. By joining forces to promote AI innovation, R&D, and translation among local startups, we are fostering deep integration of innovation and technology achievements across various industries. This not only accelerates the intelligent upgrade of local industries but also empowers startups to expand into international markets, propelling Hong Kong toward its goal of becoming a global hub for AI and innovation.”

Our Pillars of the Ricoh InnoAI Program:

  1. Technical Support: Backed by Ricoh’s Beijing R&D team and proprietary large language models (LLMs), partners receive world-class AI support to develop breakthrough and practical solutions.
  2. Sales & Marketing Resources: Ricoh’s professional teams help partners craft precise go-to-market strategies and leverage a network of over 30,000 enterprise clients.
  3. Workspace & GPU Resources: The InnoAI Center at Cyberport offers advanced collaboration spaces and high-performance GPU resources to support compute-intensive projects.
  4. Business Development Support: Partners benefit from Ricoh’s exhibitions, product launches, media services, and promotional platforms.

Each partner in the InnoAI Program receives comprehensive support, including dedicated workspace, industry mentorship, strategic collaboration opportunities, expert advice, and marketing resources to accelerate innovation.

Ricoh also launched the InnoAI APAC Super Connector Program to help partners expand into overseas markets, including Australia, Thailand, and Taiwan region. Senior Ricoh executives from 11 cities and countries across the Asia-Pacific region visited Hong Kong this month to engage with local partners and explore cross-border opportunities.

Ricoh Announces AI MFP Upgrade – Driving Enterprise Digital Transformation

InnoAI Linker Launching in August – Seamless Integration with InnoAI Hub

The upgraded InnoAI Linker will officially launch in August, enabling users to transfer documents and data directly from Ricoh AI MFPs to the InnoAI Hub with a single click. The platform’s enhanced eKM (enterprise knowledge management) system now includes advanced data management features for improved knowledge integration and retrieval. These innovations were demonstrated live at the InnoAI Center launch and received strong industry interest.

Ricoh AI Marketplace Now Live – A Go-to-Market Platform for Local Innovation

The Ricoh AI Marketplace is now officially operational, allowing InnoAI partners to connect their AI applications directly to Ricoh AI MFPs. This enables Ricoh customers to experience cutting-edge AI features while providing local innovators with a streamlined go-to-market platform—fostering the AI2B (AI to Business) ecosystem.

Partner Spotlight: Picksos Docufinder AI Solution Debuts

Ricoh InnoAI partner Pickso has launched its “Docufinder” solution on the AI Marketplace. Designed for enterprises, especially SMEs, it uses AI to rapidly classify large volumes of documents, manage departmental access, and deliver smart insights—greatly enhancing document management and collaboration.

Nurturing AI Talent: InnoAI Youth Empowerment Program

Through the InnoAI Youth Empowerment Program, Ricoh is actively cultivating AI talent among Hong Kong students. Interns collaborate with schools, e-commerce support teams, sales, and pre-sales experts to develop AI agents and participate in real-world projects—gaining hands-on experience and preparing to become future AI leaders.

Ricoh will continue to deepen the four pillars of the InnoAI Strategy—Center, Hub, Co-Creation, and Program—driving AI from R&D to commercialization. Through the Ricoh AI Marketplace, AI MFP applications, and youth empowerment initiatives, Ricoh is building an AI ecosystem that integrates innovation, talent, and industry collaboration. By 2026, Ricoh aims to co-create over 50 AI solutions, starting from Hong Kong and expanding across Asia-Pacific, realizing the vision of “AI to Business” and leading the next wave of enterprise digital transformation.

The distinguished officiating guests presided over the ribbon cutting ceremony, including (from left): Mr Eric Yu, General Manager, Digital Operations of Ricoh Hong Kong; Mr. Ricky Chong, Managing Director, Ricoh Hong Kong, Dr. Rocky Cheng, CEO of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited; Ms. Georgina Chu, Chief Corporate Development Officer of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited
The distinguished officiating guests presided over the ribbon cutting ceremony, including (from left): Mr Eric Yu, General Manager, Digital Operations of Ricoh Hong Kong; Mr. Ricky Chong, Managing Director, Ricoh Hong Kong, Dr. Rocky Cheng, CEO of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited; Ms. Georgina Chu, Chief Corporate Development Officer of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited

About Ricoh Hong Kong Limited

Established in 1963, Ricoh Hong Kong Limited is a trusted leader in digital services and workplace solutions. As a pioneer in digital transformation, Ricoh Hong Kong empowers organizations to work smarter through its Five Areas of Expertise: Hybrid Workplace, Workflow & Automation, Cloud & IT Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, and AI Application.

Driven by innovation and a strong customer focus, Ricoh Hong Kong integrates people and technology to help businesses stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. By delivering tailored solutions that enhance productivity, agility, and collaboration, Ricoh supports organizations in navigating change with confidence. With a steadfast commitment to sustainable growth and digital excellence, Ricoh enables companies to focus on forward — empowering them to lead with purpose and thrive in the future of work.

For more information, please visit http://www.ricoh.com.hk

OneConnect Signs Over RMB 200 Million in Overseas Deals, Boosting Global Growth Through Ping An’s Integrated Finance Synergy

SHANGHAI, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Since June 2025, OneConnect has secured multiple fin-tech project contracts across international markets including Hong Kong SAR, Southeast Asia, and South Africa, with total contract value exceeding RMB 200 million (USD 28 million). The company continues to expand its roster of strategic global clients, diversify its project portfolio, and gain broader recognition for Ping An’s integrated financial ecosystem capabilities worldwide.

Hong Kong: Billion-RMB SaaS Deployment and First Overseas Application of AI Deepfake Detection

In Hong Kong, OneConnect has deepened cooperation with local banks, signing contracts totaling over RMB 100 million (USD 14 million). Among them, a leading retail bank adopted a SaaS-based eKYC anti-fraud solution that integrates identity authentication, HKID document recognition, deepfake detection, and other core modules. The solution is expected to serve over 70% of Hong Kong’s retail banking customers, marking a breakthrough for OneConnect’s SaaS subscription model in the premium market.

At the same time, the company reached another agreement with a local bank to implement both eKYC and AI deepfake detection. The service covers remote onboarding and identity verification for residents in Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China—marking the first deployment of AI-powered anti-GenAI technology in an overseas bank.

In addition, OneConnect secured a public sector contract to upgrade the information system of a Hong Kong government department. The project will consolidate various office systems onto a unified platform to improve administrative efficiency and lays the groundwork for future export of “Happy Ping An”-branded digital governance solutions.

Southeast Asia: Core Banking System Deal in Vietnam, Auto Ecosystem Model Expands

Following deployments in Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, and the Middle East, OneConnect has reached an agreement on 30th of June with a top-tier Vietnamese bank to implement a core banking project. The project features a significantly higher proportion of product value compared to earlier deals. It will be rolled out firstly in a subsidiary bank and later expanded across the parent institution. Besides of the core banking system, this client also shows its interests in the localization of modules including AI, risk control, lending, and auto finance.

On the same day, OneConnect also reached a strategic agreement with a leading Vietnamese infrastructure and transportation operator to build a localized, one-stop automotive ecosystem. The solution spans auto insurance tech, vehicle finance, post-sales services, big data, and AI applications. The project is positioned as a model for replication across Southeast Asia’s trillion-RMB auto ecosystem market and strengthens the foundation for Ping An’s expansion in overseas auto finance.

South Africa: Expanding Partnership with Old Mutual to Deliver Ping An’s Life Insurance Capabilities

In South Africa, OneConnect has deepened its strategic partnership with Old Mutual, expanding from a single “Life lnsurance Universal Agent” product to a comprehensive life insurance system including customer service platforms and intelligent underwriting and claims processes. Since 2022, the two companies have launched seven phases of the Life lnsurance Universal Agent solution, significantly improving agent productivity and customer conversion rates. As a flagship life insurance solution, Life lnsurance Universal Agent draws on Ping An’s deep operational experience and applies AI and big data to achieve both standardization and localization.

In 2025, senior executives from Old Mutual visited Ping An’s facilities in Zhangjiang and Suzhou to observe call center and customer service operations. These visits led to new agreements around platform-based solutions, highlighting Ping An’s appeal in global life insurance markets and showcasing its ability to transform operational models through technology.

Technology-Driven and Ecosystem-Oriented: Advancing Chinese Fintech on the Global Stage

From Hong Kong SAR to Southeast Asia and Africa, from banking to public services, and from standalone products to full ecosystem partnerships, OneConnect is accelerating the global implementation of its “Platform + Ecosystem” model by leveraging Ping An’s integrated financial resources and technological strengths.

Looking ahead, OneConnect will continue to deliver more intelligent, scenario-based, and SaaS-driven solutions to meet the evolving needs of global financial institutions—driving the global influence of Chinese fintech and contributing to the digital transformation of financial services worldwide.

 

Asian Nations Dominate Passport Power Ranking as US and UK Continue to Decline

LONDON, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore holds the crown as the world’s most powerful passport, with visa-free access to 193 destinations out of 227 globally, according to the latest  Henley Passport Index . The index is powered by exclusive Timatic data from the International Air Transport Association  (IATA) and ranks all the world’s passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a prior visa. Asian nations continue to lead the global mobility race, with Japan and South Korea sharing 2nd place, each granting their citizens access to 190 destinations visa-free.

A strong European contingent occupies the rest of the Top 5. Seven EU passports share 3rd place — Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain, all with access to 189 destinations. Another seven-nation European cohort, with visa-free entry to 188 destinations, are joint 4thAustria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and Sweden — while New Zealand, the only nation to challenge the regional dominance, ties in 5th place with Greece and Switzerland.

At the other end of the global mobility spectrum, Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the ranking, with its citizens able to access just 25 destinations without a prior visa — a staggering mobility gap of 168 destinations between the top- and bottom-ranked passports.

Biggest risers and fallers

The UK and US have each dropped a place in the global passport rankings since January, continuing a long-term downward trend. Once the most powerful passports in the world — the UK in 2015 and the US in 2014 — they now rank 6th and 10th, respectively. The UK currently has visa-free access to 186 destinations, while the US trails with 182. Notably, the US is now on the brink of exiting the Top 10 altogether for the first time in the index’s 20-year history.

Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, the inventor of the passport index concept, says “traditional mobility champions are losing ground in an increasingly multi-polar world. As emerging economies liberalize their visa regimes and invest in diplomatic capital, legacy powers like the UK and the US appear to be retreating behind more restrictive entry policies.”

The UAE continues to be a standout among the top risers, shooting up 34 places over the last 10 years from 42nd to 8th place. Another notable winner is China, also rising 34 places from 94th to 60th since 2015 — particularly impressive considering that, unlike other top risers, China has not yet gained visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area.

The Asia-Pacific region is also a leading driver of global travel. IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh, says overall demand for air travel showed strong 5.8% growth over the first five months of 2025, with some regional variations. “Asia-Pacific airlines led the way with 9.5% growth. In North America, international traffic grew by 1.8%, but this was offset by a 1% contraction in the domestic market, leaving demand effectively flat over the period.”

Read the full press release

12th Milken Institute Asia Summit To Be Held in Singapore, Spotlighting Progress with Purpose Amidst Global Uncertainty

Over 1,500 CEOs, policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, and government leaders are expected to join the Institute’s annual Asia Summit in October.

SINGAPORE, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Milken Institute announced today the return of its Asia Summit in Singapore, to take place October 1–3. The annual Summit will be held at the Four Seasons Hotel and is expected to welcome top leaders and senior executives across government, business, technology, and finance. Over three days of tailored programming, this year’s agenda focuses squarely on the fragmented new world order and the rapidly intensifying global geopolitical tension, seeking optimism through gainful partnership and fostering purposeful, progressive collaboration.

The theme of this year’s Summit—Progress with Purpose: Collaboration Amid Complexity—accentuates the region’s rapidly evolving landscape, marked by the backdrop of geopolitical fragmentation, the rise of unilateralism, and the sluggish global economic stagnation. Amid this tumult, with over 1,500 prominent leaders, experts, investors, and asset allocators in attendance, the Summit seeks to chart a course for purposeful progress and encourage collaboration through compelling panel discussions, fireside conversations, and private roundtables. Distinguished guests in attendance will be able to engage and interact with global leaders and luminaries through carefully curated networking sessions and private discussion dialogues. All public panel discussions will also be broadcast live on the Milken Institute’s website, making the content accessible to audiences around the world.

“In a world where geopolitical realignments and geoeconomic fragmentation are redefining the rules of engagement, Asia remains a dynamic force, both adapting to, and shaping the contours of global growth. The region’s strategic relevance is no longer just about scale, but about its agility in navigating complexity, from reconfiguring supply chains to leading in digital innovation and capital formation.” said Laura Deal Lacey, Executive Vice President of International at the Milken Institute. “As the world enters a new phase of globalization—less uniform, more regional, and increasingly multipolar—the 12th Milken Institute Asia Summit serves as a critical platform for connecting decision-makers who aren’t just reacting to change but want to collaborate. Our ambition is to spark conversations and connections that lead to long-term investment, innovation, solve regional challenges and drive shared prosperity.”

Since establishing its Asia headquarters in Singapore in 2014, the Milken Institute has made significant commitments to the region. The Institute’s engagements in Asia included the launch of its Global Dinner Dialogues in South Korea, two editions of the Global Investors’ Symposium in Hong Kong, and the publication of research reports, whitepapers, and its Financial Innovations Lab that focused on bridging financial, health, and technological gaps in Asia. Most recently, the Institute inked a Memorandum of Understanding with the Singapore Tourism Board to anchor the Asia Summit in Singapore from 2026 to 2028.

“The Asia Summit is the annual gathering in Singapore where delegates and panelists interact to discuss policy and politics that impact major investment decision,” said Robin Hu, Asia Chair at the Milken Institute. “ASEAN states are pursuing strategic ambiguity with remarkable discipline. While economic interdependence between China and ASEAN remains robust, the region is also central to U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy. The result is a dynamic contest for influence, where local actors have become highly adept at managing external pressures.”

For information about the 12th Milken Institute Asia Summit, please visit www.asia-summit.org. For sponsorships, partnership engagements, and program collaborations, please email asia@milkeninstitute.org. For media inquiries or to apply for press credentials at the event, please reach out to Yeen Chong at ychong@milkeninstitute.org.

About the Milken Institute

The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what’s pressing now and what’s coming next. For more information, visit www.milkeninstitute.org.

About Milken Institute International 

Milken Institute International extends the reach and impact of Milken Institute programs, events, and research by focusing on the role that health, finance, and philanthropy play in addressing social and economic issues around the world. We leverage the Institute’s global network to tackle regional challenges and integrate regional perspectives into developing solutions to persistent global challenges. For more information, visit www.milkeninstitute.org/international.

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ITE Hong Kong 2026 – Proven Sourcing Platform, Draw more Trade & Premium FIT from Asia Fast Growing Markets

HONG KONG, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Asia’s leading travel fair, ITE2026 incorporates the 40th ITE Leisure & 21st ITE MICE will be held from 11 to 14 June at Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre. It is held annually with first two days for trade and last two days open to the public.

The highly international ITE2025 successfully drew more Buyers & Trade Visitors “BTV” (+8.6%) and public visitors “PV” (+11.4%). 88% of 502 Exhibitors and 53% of 7626 BTV from abroad; 1/3 of 64 exhibiting countries and regions from outside Asia.

Geographically, over 70% of 7626 BTV from Greater Bay Area (GBA), which include Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen etc in 2024 had a combined population of 87.4 million and GDP of US$ 2077.4 billion which about world’s 12th largest economy.

By sector, 45.7% of BTV were travel agents and 15.3% were corporation & MICE; 48% of 70212 PV with 3 or more outbound holidays and 91% keep / increase travel spending!

In ITE, Business Matching, a free service, where buyers seated by interested market while exhibitors moving around, that participants overstayed reflect BM been effective!  Post-pandemic, ITE stops hosting buyers, instead subsidies buyers who anyway planned visit ITE.  Months before opening, ITE actively promoted in Asia an international sourcing platform, working with travel associations, hosted delegations from Guangdong various cities result in more regional buyers & trade visitors.
In ITE, Business Matching, a free service, where buyers seated by interested market while exhibitors moving around, that participants overstayed reflect BM been effective! Post-pandemic, ITE stops hosting buyers, instead subsidies buyers who anyway planned visit ITE. Months before opening, ITE actively promoted in Asia an international sourcing platform, working with travel associations, hosted delegations from Guangdong various cities result in more regional buyers & trade visitors.

Hong Kong outbound fully recovered in 2024: ranked world’s 14th largest by international tourism spending of US$28.9 billion and made 104.7 million departures, recovered to 107% and 111% of pre-epidemic levels respectively. In first 4 months of 2025, HK outbound grew 17%! Dec-2024, Trip.com reported HK residents prefer quality lodging and exploring niche destinations.

New in ITE2025 included Youth and Family Travel Pavilions for more Gen Z and Young Parent visitors; some 50 KOLs joined Networking and Grand Tour in trade days and held seminars in public days; and providing AI-simultaneous interpretation for Niche / New Destination seminars.

B2B program included free services like Business Matching though free-flow the main format, speaking opportunities, pre-show promotions etc. For B2C, exhibitors can apply for free seminar session of 25 minutes.

Business Matching participants overstayed! 135 trade and public seminars drew 9224 audiences! Plenty exhibitor visitor interactions in stand! Signs of good business.

Respectively, 50% and 23% of ITE’s PV had university and post-secondary education background, many can speak English, online booking and mobile payment are indeed widely used. Thus, directly selling to PV is feasible.

Organized by TKS Exhibition Services Ltd., ITE is strongly supported by Ministry of Culture and Tourism of P.R. China, other supporters include Hong Kong Tourism Board etc.  Full article https://www.itehk.com/travelexpo/doc/press/ITE26_KickOff_15Jul25_en.pdf Expo’s website: www.itehk.com or inquiry via WhatsApp: +85294008444 Email: travel@tkshk.com

Telin Launch CLS Manado-Minahasa: Bold Step to Strengthen Eastern Indonesia Digital Ecosystem Toward a More Diverse and Opulence Connectivity

MANADO, Indonesia, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin), a subsidiary of PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (Telkom), proudly announces the official launch of its new Cable Landing Station (CLS) in Kalasey, Minahasa. This milestone represents a major leap forward in Telin’s mission to enhance Indonesia’s international connectivity and digital infrastructure focusing on strengthening eastern regional zone.

With the launch of Cable Landing Station Manado-Minahasa, Indonesia accelerates eastern Indonesia connectivity and economic growth while stepping boldly into the digital future as a key Asia-Pacific connectivity hub, powering innovation and prosperity across the region.
With the launch of Cable Landing Station Manado-Minahasa, Indonesia accelerates eastern Indonesia connectivity and economic growth while stepping boldly into the digital future as a key Asia-Pacific connectivity hub, powering innovation and prosperity across the region.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Telkom Group’s executive leadership, including CEO of CFU WIB Telkom Group – Honesti Basyir; President Commissioner of Telin – Muhammad Rofik; Telin Commissioner – Bambang A. Margono; Telin’s Board of Directors; Budi Satria Dharma Purba, Kharisma, Abdul Rahman Ansyory, and Doni Andriansyah; Business Director of GSD – Amini Kusumawati; Acting CEO of Telkom Infrastruktur – Slamet Riyanto; Operation Director of Telkom Akses – Ambari; and EVP of Telkom Regional V – Amin Soebagyo.

CLS Manado-Minahasa is a critical component of Bifrost Cable System, an international subsea cable project developed in partnership with Keppel and Meta. This cutting-edge system connects Southeast Asia directly to North America, bypassing traditional routes by traversing strategic maritime corridors such as the Java Sea and the Celebes Sea. This new path signi ficantly enhances Indonesia’s position within the global digital traffic network.

Since the Bifrost cable system kick off announcement in 2021, Telin has been achieving remarkable milestones — from selecting site location, holding the ground breaking ceremony in October 2024, successfully lands the cable in early 2025 and come to completing the overall CLS construction. Following the cable landing at Jakarta CLS last year, CLS Manado-Minahasa are now ready to be fully activated and integrated into Telkom’s network. Today, the station stands ready to power Indonesia’s digital future and support a growing number of international cable systems.

Honesti Basyir, CEO CFU WIB Telkom Group, highlighted the strategic vision behind this development, stating, “The Manado-Minahasa Cable Landing Station marks a bold step in positioning Indonesia as a vital digital gateway for the Asia-Pacific. By connecting directly across the Pacific via Bifrost and preparing for future cables, we are building the foundation for a more connected, innovative, and prosperous digital future for our nation and region.”

Budi Satria Dharma Purba, CEO of Telin, further emphasized, “The Manado Cable Landing Station is more than just infrastructure; it is a gateway for Indonesia to lead in the digital era. Supporting Bifrost and future cables, we are enabling greater connectivity, innovation, and economic opportunity across the Asia- Pacific region.”

Designed with advanced, scalable infrastructure, the CLS Manado-Minahasa can accommodate multiple submarine cable systems. Equipped with Beach Man Hole (BMH) integration and robust front-haul connections, it serves as an ideal landing point for future subsea cables and digital platforms.

The launch of the Manado-Minahasa Cable Landing Station represents far more than a physical connection —it is a beacon of Indonesia’s digital transformation. By supporting Bifrost and other upcoming international cable projects, this strategic asset will enhance regional connectivity, foster economic growth, and bolster Indonesia’s role as a vital hub in the global digital network.

About Telin:

Established in 2007, Telin provides premium international carrier voice, data services, and tailored business solutions for wholesale, enterprise, digital, and retail customers. Telin operates in multiple countries and cities, including Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, Australia, Malaysia, Taiwan region, the United States, Timor Leste, the United Arab Emirates, and Myanmar, with representatives in the United Kingdom, the Philippines, India, Vietnam and Canada. Telin’s infrastructure spans 250,140 kilometers of cable system length, incorporating 27 Global Submarine Cable Systems, and operates 58 Points of Presence in 26 Countries, 10 global offices, 5 global countries Sales Representative, and over 19 Tier II to Tier IV Data Centers in key locations, including Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, Timor Leste, and Indonesia.

For more information about Telin, visit www.telin.net

SNACKS, PEP TALKS, AND SECRET CRIES: SURVEY REVEALS WHAT AUSTRALIANS REALLY DO IN THEIR CARS

BRISBANE, Australia, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — New research released today from insurance provider Youi has revealed that for many Australians, their car is more than just a mode for transport – it’s a trusted companion, a safe space, and even a secret-keeper.

The Youi Car Confessions* study, which surveyed more than 2,000 Aussies, found nearly half (45%) of respondents say they have an emotional connection to their car, with younger generations leading the charge – 58% of Gen Z drivers admit to feeling emotionally attached to their vehicle.

According to the data, the majority of Aussies (92%) use their car for something other than driving, and 43% of us spend time in the car without going anywhere. The most reported non-driving activities include snacking (59%), making phone calls (60%), and just stopping to enjoy the view (64%).

From naming our cars to using them as a place to cry, vent, or simply escape, Youi’s Head of Product – Vehicle and Leisure, Marni Jackson said the findings paint a picture of a nation that sees their car as a personal sanctuary.

“Our cars have become an extension of ourselves – a place where we feel in control, safe, and even free to be vulnerable,” Marni said.

“The data highlights generational and gender differences – 67% of Gen Zs enjoy hanging out listening to music or podcasts in the car compared to 43% of Boomers. Interestingly, 36% of men like to nap in the car, compared to only 29% of women.

“From first drives to quiet moments of reflection, our cars are part of our life stories – and we’re proud to help Australians insure those stories every day. At Youi, we’ve always believed that insurance is about more than just covering a vehicle – it’s about understanding the people behind the wheel.

“Based on the data we’ve collected, we’ve created four unique ‘Car Personalities’ and Aussies can now take a quiz to find out exactly who they are behind the wheel. Simply go to our website to take the test,” she said.  

Aussie cars contain more than just secrets and memories 

According to the data, the most common items found in Aussie cars include blankets (36%), a change of clothes (24%) and toilet paper (23%). Gen Zs and Millennials are more likely to keep clothing, hobby materials, and stuffed toys in their car compared to Pre-Boomers and Boomers.

Aussies also believe their car has a personality of its own. A quarter of Aussies have given their car a pet name and 1 in 5 talks to their car, 13% even saying their car “knows all their secrets.”

When it comes to generational differences, 22% of Gen Z drivers like to give their cars pep talks when going up a hill and are also more likely than any other generation to have special memories attached to their cars – for 50% of Gen Z drivers, these include owning their own car for the first time or having their first solo drive (44%).

Consumer Behaviour Scientist and academic, Nathan Moore from the University of Technology Sydney, said that our emotional bonds to our cars develop for multiple reasons. These include their value in fulfilling our fundamental psychological needs, like freedom and safety, and the fond memories that we create with them. 

“Our emotional attachment to cars stems from their role as extensions of the self. They carry our memories, represent our freedom, and often reflect our identity. This connection deepens when we start to relate to cars almost as if they have personalities of their own. Our shared experiences with them, the way they feel to drive, the sounds they make, and their appearance can all evoke emotions and shape how we see them, not just as machines but as companions in our lives,” said Mr Moore. 

“The findings echo this, with roughly half of Australians reporting an emotional connection with their car. When asked about special memories attached to the cars they have owned, 42% of Aussies referenced the feeling of having their own car for the very first time. Whether it’s the first time someone completed a solo drive (27%), or new parents bringing home their baby for the first time (32%), our cars hold key memories from our lives.

“83% of Australians say they’re proud of their car, with many pointing to its reliability, sentimental value, or the hard work it took to make it their own. It’s no surprise, then, that people take good care of their cars. They’re a constant presence in our lives, helping us get where we need to go and supporting our everyday routines. For many, cars can feel like trusted companions. That might explain why 1 in 4 Australians has given their car a pet name, and nearly half describe it as having a gender,” he said.

From secret snack stashes to late-night cries, our cars have seen it all. To learn more about Aussie Car Confessions, or to take the quiz to find out your Car Personality, visit Youi’s Car Confessions hub here.

Disclaimer:  *Data for the Youi Car Confessions study was sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025, involving 2,020 individuals aged 18 years old and above, from all states and territories within Australia who identified as car owners and drivers. Some percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number. Survey results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.

Car Insurance issued by Youi Pty Ltd. Consider our Car PDS to decide if this product is right for you. PDS and TMD available at youi.com.au. Any information contained in this Media Release is for general information only and is not comprehensive advice. Any recommendations should be considered against your personal circumstances. 

NOTE TO THE EDITORS
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ABOUT YOUI:  

Youi Pty Ltd is an Australian registered company and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Youi Holdings Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of OUTsurance International Holdings Pty Limited. The ultimate holding company is OUTsurance Group Limited.  

Youi Pty Ltd is a registered general insurance company which underwrites its own policies. Our products currently include Vehicle (Car, NSW CTP Green Slip, SA CTP, Motorcycle, Caravan and Trailer), Home (Buildings and Contents), Watercraft and Small Business Insurance.  

Youi is regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC), a member of the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and a signatory to the General Insurance Code of Practice.