HONG KONG, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From February 23 to 27, the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2026 Conference and Exhibition was led by The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) as the lead host with seven other University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities serving as co-hosts.  The conference was supported by the HKSAR Government, the UGC and the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Under the theme “Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good”, the event attracted over 3,500 participants and 600 exhibitors from 72 countries and regions, a record high for the conference.

CUHK previously hosted the APAIE Conference and Exhibition in 2013. As one of the world’s three most significant international education conferences, the 2026 event not only showcased Hong Kong’s dynamism as an international education hub, but also charted a future-oriented blueprint for Asia-Pacific higher education cooperation.

Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK, emphasized that Hong Kong has become a vital international education hub, capable of comprehensively showcasing its higher education strengths to the outside world, including its facilities, research, talent cultivation, and scientific and technological innovation achievements.

At the start of the conference, the Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government officially launched the “Study in Hong Kong” week, aiming to showcase the city’s unique value as a top-tier study destination to students worldwide.

Hong Kong, an international metropolis with a population of approximately 7.7 million, boasts five universities ranked among the world’s top 100 — a density of world-class higher education institutions rarely seen globally.

Dr. Choi Yuk-lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government, said that as a “super-connector” in the global education network, Hong Kong is dedicated to fostering a highly internationalized and diverse academic ecosystem. For global students, studying here means not just earning a degree from a top university, but also taking ownership of your future and building the skills that matter.

Backed by the vast Chinese Mainland market and connected to the world, Hong Kong enjoys unique advantages in both basic and higher education, Professor Lo said. He affirmed that, when combined with the HKSAR Government’s proactive talent attraction policies, comprehensive study and employment schemes, social stability and safety, Hong Kong is undoubtedly a top study destination for students globally.

Speaking on Hong Kong, Professor Venky Shankararaman, President of APAIE, said that as Asia’s World City, Hong Kong possesses international connectivity advantages, world-class infrastructure and rich cultural experiences, and is a “melting pot” of Eastern and Western cultures.

“Its open, internationalized environment makes it an ideal gateway connecting China with the world, providing unique fertile ground for cultivating international talent and fostering diverse innovation,” Professor Shankararaman said during the APAIE 2026 Conference and Exhibition.

Experts noted that educational opportunities are not isolated phenomena but are deeply intertwined and mutually reinforcing with macro trends, such as regional economic integration, technological revolutions, demographic shifts, and the evolution of global governance.

Professor Lo said the driving forces of Asian economic growth are undergoing a fundamental shift, with mutual dependence, synergy from intra-regional trade, and investment increasingly becoming key engines, altering the previous singular reliance on exports to Western markets.

Professor Lo emphasized that the new wave of technological revolution, led by artificial intelligence (AI), and the green energy transition, represented by the photovoltaic industry and electric vehicles, are becoming core factors reshaping Asia’s economic resilience and defining future competitiveness.

In this context, emerging markets like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam are performing remarkably, and their substantial demand for higher education and pursuit of continuous improvement are expected only to increase further, he said.

“By deepening regional education cooperation, expanding teacher and student exchange networks, and jointly building research collaboration platforms, we can effectively promote the cross-border flow and optimal allocation of educational resources, achieving complementary advantages and synergistic development,” said Professor Shankararaman in an interview.

He noted that while educational resources in the Asia-Pacific are unevenly distributed, the region possesses prominent complementary advantages.

“This complementarity of differences will not only enhance the overall quality of education and innovation efficiency in the region, but also provide solid talent and intellectual support for addressing shared global challenges and promoting inclusive growth,” Professor Shankararaman said.

SINGAPORE, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Körber Supply Chain is pleased to announce a new customer partnership with HH Stainless Pte Ltd, a leading importer, exporter, and stockist of stainless-steel materials in Singapore and Southeast Asia. This project strengthens Körber’s regional presence and reflects its continued commitment to delivering advanced warehouse automation solutions customized to industrial customers. Founded in 1964, HH Stainless supplies stainless-steel pipes, fittings, flanges, bars, and plates, with an inventory exceeding 12,000 tonnes and a range of value-added services.

Körber Supply Chain Announces Customer Partnership with HH Stainless Pte Ltd

Körber’s ASRS solution allows HH Stainless to significantly reduce and save on labour costs by minimizing handling and walking distances, while increasing picking efficiency. Furthermore, the vertical storage design maximises space utilisation through a compact honeycomb structure, reducing space needs and enabling higher storage density in HH Stainless facility.

The project involves the design and implementation of an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) for long-length stainless steel pipes at HH Stainless’s facility located in Singapore. Körber’s solution features a stacker crane with a single load handling device, specifically engineered to manage cassettes storing long products and pipe products.

In addition, the integrated warehouse management and Körber’s K.OneX warehouse control software will provide real-time visibility of inventory and system status, optimise storage and retrieval sequences, and enhance inventory accuracy and traceability. Dedicated local after-sales and technical support from Körber’s Singapore-based team will ensure ongoing maintenance and long-term reliability of the system.

“This partnership reflects our strong local presence and ability to deliver tailored automation solutions,” said Louis Kok, Head of Marketing and Sales for Körber’s Business Area Supply Chain in Singapore. “We appreciate the confidence HH Stainless has placed in us and look forward to supporting their operations with a scalable, future-ready solution.”

Mr. Terence Low, General Manager-Purchasing, from HH Stainless commented: “We believe Körber’s automation expertise and strong local support will provide a strong foundation for this partnership as we support our growth and operational goals.”

The Business Area Supply Chain is part of the global technology group Körber. Find out more on www.koerber-supplychain.com.

To learn more about HH Stainless, please visit: https://www.honghock.com.sg/hhstainless/.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Louis Kok
Head of Marketing & Sales 
Koerber Supply Chain SG Pte Ltd 
+65 6841 7073 
info.sc.sgp@koerber-supplychain.com 

BARCELONA, Spain, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Whale Cloud, a global leader in building intelligent productivity, today announced that it has received the Excellence in Partnership Award from DITO Telecommunity, a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines. The award recognizes Whale Cloud’s long-standing commitment and contributions to supporting DITO’s digital transformation and rapid growth in the Philippine market.

Since the early stages of DITO’s establishment, Whale Cloud has served as a strategic technology partner, providing key digital capabilities including Digital Business Support Systems (BSS), Operations Support Systems (OSS), big data platforms, and AI-enabled solutions. These technologies have helped DITO build a scalable digital foundation, enhance operational efficiency, and continuously improve digital services and customer experience for its growing subscriber base. Notably, the DITO App developed by Whale Cloud has become a major digital touchpoint for subscribers. Its strong digital experience has also received industry recognition, with DITO winning Mobile App of the Year – Philippines at the Asian Telecom Awards.

With more than two decades of experience in the telecommunications industry, Whale Cloud continues to advance innovation through AI-driven telecom solutions. Its AI-enabled BSS/OSS capabilities have been recognized by leading global industry organizations, including the Business Gamechanger Award from TM Forum, the Magic Quadrant for AI in CSP Customer and Business Operations by Gartner, the Asia-Pacific Technology Innovation Leadership Award by Frost & Sullivan, and the AI Gamechanger Performance Award from Fast Mode.

At MWC Barcelona 2026, Whale Cloud also highlighted its enterprise-centric, cloud-native architecture and AI-native digital platforms that help telecom operators enhance delivery efficiency, strengthen business agility, and boost productivity while accelerating their evolution from telcos to techcos.

“Receiving this award from DITO is a strong recognition of the partnership we have built over the years,” said Ben Zhou, CEO of Whale Cloud. “We will continue to work closely with DITO to drive AI-enabled innovation and deliver advanced digital capabilities that support sustainable growth.”

Eric Alberto, CEO of DITO Telecommunity added, “Whale Cloud has been a trusted partner since the early stages of DITO’s development. Their expertise in telecom digital platforms and innovation has played a key role in supporting our rapid growth, and we look forward to further strengthening this collaboration in the future.”

MELBOURNE, Australia, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ceretone, an innovative hearing technology brand, today announces its official entry into the Australian market. The company’s comprehensive product line will launch on Chemist Warehouse’s online platform in late February 2026, bringing affordable, high-performance hearing solutions to Australian consumers.

Flagship Products Lead the Way

Ceretone’s Australian launch features two flagship models: Core One Pro and Beacon. Core One Pro stands out as one of the smallest rechargeable hearing aids available on the market, offering feather-light comfort and a remarkably discreet design. This virtually invisible profile empowers users to address their hearing needs confidently, without the social stigma often associated with traditional hearing aids.

Beacon delivers advanced features and exceptional performance for consumers seeking premium hearing assistance, representing the pinnacle of Ceretone’s technological capabilities with sophisticated sound processing for complex listening environments.

The launch also includes additional models—Nexus, Fusion, Solid, and Torch—providing comprehensive solutions tailored to diverse hearing needs and lifestyle requirements.

Breaking the Price Barrier

Traditional prescription hearing aids in Australia routinely cost upwards of $6,000 AUD, creating a significant barrier for many who need them. Ceretone is changing this dramatically. As ready-to-use devices, Ceretone products require no doctor’s prescription, eliminating both the cost and complexity of medical appointments.

More importantly, Ceretone offers premium hearing solutions at a fraction of traditional costs without compromising on sound quality or performance. Each device features advanced noise reduction technology and intuitive controls that make adjustment simple for users of all ages.

Mission-Driven Accessibility

Ceretone’s mission is clear: make hearing aids accessible to everyone who needs them. The company believes clear hearing is a fundamental right, not a luxury. While maintaining uncompromising quality standards, Ceretone continuously enhances value through technological innovation and efficient operations, proving that exceptional quality and affordability can coexist.

Convenient Access and Expansion

Ceretone has partnered with Chemist Warehouse, Australia’s leading pharmacy retailer, to launch its products online. The company is actively expanding to additional e-commerce platforms and offline pharmacy channels, ensuring convenient access for all Australians regardless of location or shopping preference.

Quality and Support

All Ceretone products comply with Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) requirements, meeting strict medical device standards for quality and safety. The company has partnered with PICA, an established Australian distributor, to provide local support. For product inquiries or assistance, customers can contact PICA at ceretone@pica.com.au 

Ceretone’s Australian launch marks the beginning of a new era in hearing care, where quality solutions are within reach for everyone who needs them.

About Ceretone

Ceretone is a global hearing technology brand dedicated to making quality hearing care accessible through advanced digital solutions, user-centered design, and mission-driven affordability.

Media Inquiries
PR Manager
Ingrid.liu@ceretone.com

Consumer Inquiries
PICA Australia
ceretone@pica.com.au 

▶ Participates in economic delegation and explores ways to expand bilateral cooperation at the Korea–Philippines Business Forum
▶ Pays tribute at Korean War Memorial… Inspects HD Hyundai Philippines Shipyard and encourages local employees
▶ HD Hyundai Heavy Industries contributes to Philippine naval modernization with orders for 12 naval vessels and establishment of a logistics support center

SEOUL, South Korea, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Kisun has stepped forward to play a bridging role in strengthening ties between Korea and the Philippines.

HD Hyundai announced on March 5 that Chairman Chung, who is currently visiting the Philippines as part of the Korean government’s economic delegation, paid tribute at a Korean War memorial, attended the Korea–Philippines Business Forum, and inspected HD Hyundai Philippines Shipyard (HD Hyundai Philippines).

On March 4, Chairman Chung first visited the Korean War Memorial located at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (National Heroes’ Cemetery) in Manila and laid flowers in tribute. During the Korean War, the Philippines was the first Asian country to organize and deploy a combat unit, sending the largest contingent of troops among Asian nations—7,420 personnel.

Earlier that morning, he attended the Korea–Philippines Business Forum, jointly hosted by the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), where participants discussed concrete measures to expand economic cooperation between the two countries.

On March 5, Chairman Chung visited HD Hyundai Philippines in Subic Bay, where he toured the construction site of a new employee dormitory and the shipyard, while encouraging employees working at the site.

“We will take even greater care to ensure quality housing, health care, and safety for workers. Above all, I ask that you always place safety first and do your best in your respective roles,” said Chairman Chung during a luncheon with local employees.

Meanwhile, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering—the intermediate holding company for HD Hyundai’s shipbuilding businesses—signed a lease agreement in May 2024 with Cerberus Capital Management for part of a shipyard site in the Philippines, leading to the establishment of HD Hyundai Philippines.

In September last year, with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in attendance, HD Hyundai Philippines held a steel-cutting ceremony for the construction of its first vessel—an 115,000-ton petrochemical product carrier.

Since 2016, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has secured orders for a total of 12 naval vessels from the Philippines, playing a leading role in the modernization of the Philippine Navy. In addition, the company established a logistics support center in the country in 2022 and has been carrying out maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for naval vessels, including previously delivered frigates and corvettes.

“HD Hyundai has gone beyond a simple business partnership with the Philippines to serve as a key bridge promoting friendship between the Republic of Korea and the Philippines. We will continue to build deep trust with the Philippines with pride in representing Korea,” said Chairman Chung.