TCL CSOT reveals a holistic product vision under its APEX philosophy, delivering industry-defining advancements in image fidelity, eye care, sustainable design, AI-driven innovation, and next-generation form factors.
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TCL China Star Optoelectronics Technology (TCL CSOT), a global leader in advanced display technologies and a subsidiary of TCL Technology (000100.SZ), today debuted its latest range of innovative displays at CES 2026 under the theme, “A Limitless Future of Displays.”
Guided by its APEX innovation philosophy—Amazing Display Experience, Protective of Eye Health, Eco‑friendly to Build and Use, and X-Unlimited Imaginative Potential—TCL CSOT looks beyond pure specifications to showcase holistically how display technology is evolving to set new standards of excellence and inspire future possibilities across industries.
Jun Zhao, Senior Vice President of TCL Technology and CEO of TCL CSOT
“We are at an inflection point where display innovation must deliver smarter, healthier, more responsible experiences,” said Jun Zhao, Senior Vice President of TCL Technology and CEO of TCL CSOT. “Embracing AI to reinvigorate display manufacturing, we use AI for Display to empower eye health and sustainability, and Display for AI to create the future of display for the AI era.”
Innovative display products showcased across multiple categories under the APEX philosophy
World’s First Sliding and Multi-Curved IJP OLED Automotive Display (28″)
‘Amazing Display Experience’ That Transforms Entertainment Pushing the boundaries of visual immersion, TCL CSOT’s latest displays offer unprecedented fidelity.
The HVA Ultra Infinity View TV Display (98″) redefines home cinema with advanced RGB backlight control, featuring 18,000 backlight zones and wide BT.2020 color coverage for more vivid and layered imagery. Its low‑reflection, anti‑glare surface and ultra‑slim narrow bezel maximize immersion for a truly cinematic experience.
The World’s First Sliding and Multi-Curved IJP OLED Automotive Display (28″) features a true RGB pixel layout and a sliding mechanism that extends from 16″ to 28″. The Inkjet-printed (IJP) OLED delivers outstanding performance, with an average luminous area ratio of 50-60%, while its curved design blends futuristic aesthetics with reliability, supporting over 100,000 sliding-roll operations.
Innovations That Are ‘Protective of Eye Health’ Addressing the need for comfortable viewing, TCL CSOT integrates optical technologies that mimic natural light.
The World’s First Natural-Light-Certified OLED Mobile Display (6.89″) uses circular polarizer technology, validated by SGS, to suppress glare and enhance contrast. It remains clear in sunlight, offering a book‑like reading experience.
The World’s First Natural Light Switchable Monitor Display (27″), SGS‑certified for daylight similarity, uses a full‑spectrum backlight unit and circular polarization to replicate natural light and reduce eye fatigue.
‘Eco-friendly to Build and Use’ Through Intelligent Efficiency TCL CSOT reduces environmental impact through safer materials and smarter power management.
The World’s First PFAS-Free Notebook Display (14″) eliminates harmful “forever chemicals” from all components and replaces them with safe, new alternatives.
The World’s First Partitioned Frequency Division OLED Tablet Display (13.2″) combines sleek design with smart power savings. Its advanced LTPO backplane runs zones at adaptive refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz, cutting power use by 15% to 25%.
‘X-Unlimited Imaginative Potential‘ in Next-Gen Tech TCL CSOT is developing the core technologies that will power future immersive devices.
The World’s Highest PPI Real RGB G-OLED Display (2.56″) features a 1512 PPI true RGB resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 1,000,000:1 contrast, wide color gamut, and OLED’s inherent advantages of microsecond-level response time, delivering smooth, lifelike performance essential for XR devices.
The World’s Highest-Res Single-Chip Full-Color Si-Micro LED Display (0.28″) offers 1280 x 720 resolution at 5131 PPI on a silicon substrate. With self‑emissive Micro LED brightness, contrast, and wide color gamut, it enables retina‑grade visuals for lightweight AR glasses and ultra-slim VR devices.
World’s First Real Stripe RGB IJP OLED Mobile Display (5.65″)
TCL CSOT also introduced the World’s First Real Stripe RGB IJP OLED Mobile Display (5.65″), which leverages IJP technology to achieve 390 PPI resolution, with a diamond-like pixel arrangement equivalent to 490 PPI.
AI + Display: Building a Differentiated Innovation System TCL CSOT is advancing a strategy of “AI for Display” and “Displays for AI.” With X‑Intelligence 3.0, the industry’s first large AI model specifically for display technology, the company has improved product issue analysis by 20% and materials development by 30%. Displays are becoming the visual interface of AI devices, with TCL CSOT driving low‑power design across smartphones, tablets, and PCs through LTPO backplane optimizations and adaptive features.
Through this showcase, TCL CSOT cements its position as architect of the future display landscape. By integrating cutting-edge engineering with human-centric design, the company collaborates with partners worldwide to realize a smarter, healthier, limitless visual future.
About TCL CSOT Established in 2009, TCL China Star Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd. (TCL CSOT) is a leading global innovator in display technologies. Its LCD, OLED, and MLED solutions power applications across TVs, smartphones, tablets, laptops, monitors, automotive systems, VR/XR, and commercial displays. With a clear strategic direction set by its advanced display technology brand APEX, TCL CSOT invests continuously and strategically in R&D, driven by a mission to amaze, protect and inspire all people through endlessly innovative display technology. As part of TCL’s Worldwide Olympic Partnership, TCL CSOT is proud to deliver display solutions that elevate experiences on the global stage.
SINGAPORE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TILLIV, a modern travel lifestyle brand driven by thoughtful design, is reimagining how people pack and move through the world. With a growing lineup of innovative, space-saving essentials, TILLIV is on a mission to remove the stress, clutter, and friction from travel—so travellers can focus less on their luggage, and more on the joy of the journey.
With travel in full swing, TILLIV aims to deliver smarter, thoughtful solutions designed to make every journey easier—whether for frequent flyers, couples, or families on the move.
TILLIV Launches New Travel Essentials Designed for Smarter Packing
TILLIV has officially launched two new additions to its travel essentials lineup — Pakke + Kamper Duo and Compak with Divider — marking the brand’s latest step in delivering thoughtfully designed, space-saving solutions for modern travellers. The new product launches reflect TILLIV’s ongoing commitment to engineering smarter ways to pack, organise, and move with ease, whether for short getaways or extended trips.
Pakke + Kamper Duo
Newly launched this season, Pakke + Kamper Duo redefines flexible travel packing by combining a fold-flat duffel with a detachable compression pack. Designed for travellers who want the freedom to pack light at the start of a trip and expand when needed, the duo folds down into a palm-sized bundle before expanding to approximately 35L of storage space.
Durable enough to be used as a cabin bag or an additional check-in bag, Pakke + Kamper Duo is ideal for travellers who often return with extra shopping or souvenirs. The design allows users to pack, seal, and compress bulky items in minutes, keeping belongings compact, contained, and well organised from departure to arrival.
Compak with Divider
As part of TILLIV’s latest product launch, Compak with Divider introduces a world-first approach to compression travel by combining the brand’s signature vacuum compression technology with a built-in divider. Designed to solve the common challenge of organising luggage efficiently, it allows travellers to keep items neatly separated while maximising packing space.
Available in Medium and Large sizes to fit both cabin and checked luggage, Compak with Divider features a translucent viewing window for quick identification of contents. Built with durable, triple-layer reinforced materials and best-in-class airtight zippers, it is engineered to withstand frequent travel and overpacked suitcases, offering a reliable solution for travellers who value both organisation and efficiency.
What Sets TILLIV Apart
TILLIV’s innovations stand out in a market crowded with generic packing cubes and disposable vacuum bags. Each product is designed with precision, intent, and a commitment to long-term reliability.
Key differentiators include:
Patented designs developed exclusively by TILLIV.
A full range of sizes tailored to fit perfectly in all luggage types, offering true versatility over one-size-fits-all vacuum packs.
Weather-resistant fabric to keep clothes fresh and dry throughout the journey, something standard packing cubes can’t offer.
Brand-created signature colours that add a stylish edge to travel organisations.
Nano Pump, one of the lightest and smallest electric pumps in the world, is engineered for ultimate portability.
Triple-layered construction that ensures the products withstand frequent use, compress effectively, and last over time.
Best-in-class airtight zippers that preserve compression and prevent leakage.
Individual product testing, ensuring optimal quality before every item is packaged.
These features combine to deliver a premium travel experience built on efficiency, reliability, and peace of mind.
Designed with Responsible Travel in Mind
TILLIV considers sustainability in our product development and packaging choices. All product packaging is made from recycled and recyclable materials.
Our products are designed to be durable and reusable, supporting longer product lifespans and reducing the need for disposable travel storage solutions.
By helping travellers organise and reuse their travel essentials, TILLIV supports more mindful packing habits.
Making Stress-Free Travel a Reality
Driven by its mission to make every journey smoother, TILLIV focuses on solving one of the biggest frustrations in travel: packing efficiently without compromising convenience.
As space constraints and carry-on–only travel trends continue to rise, TILLIV’s compression technology, organisational features, and durable materials are redefining what smart packing means today.
Travellers can expect more innovations and category-expanding product launches in the near future, further strengthening the brand’s role as a trusted companion for seamless journeys.
About TILLIV
TILLIV is a Singapore-based travel lifestyle brand dedicated to helping people travel lighter, smarter, and more confidently. With thoughtfully designed products and patented compression technology, TILLIV aims to transform the packing experience and make travel truly stress-free. The brand’s focus on quality, durability, and functional design reflects its commitment to creating products that stand the test of time and every adventure.
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At its inaugural International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) appearance, MagicLab, a global leader in embodied AI, presented a powerful demonstration of its technological vision. The company’s debut centered on three flagship robots: the full-size general-purpose humanoid Gen1, the agile bipedal Z1, and the world’s first “head-tail coordinated” quadruped, MagicDog.
MagicLab made its debut at CES, drawing significant attention to its star product lineup
MagicBot Gen1: Defining a Practical Future
This robot represents a significant step toward practical utility. As China’s first general-purpose humanoid to achieve multi-unit collaboration, the Gen1 is equipped with 42 active degrees of freedom, proprietary dexterous hands, and the company’s “Atomic Myriad” scene model. This allows it to manage complex, long-sequence tasks in settings like factories. Its recent milestone—successfully performing collaborative material handling and assembly in a home appliance plant—proves the viability of its cluster-scheduling technology for large-scale industrial use.
MagicBot Z1: Pushing Performance Boundaries
Engineered for high-dynamic motion, the Z1, launched in the latter half of this year, breaks new ground in hardware capability. It utilizes proprietary high-performance joint modules that deliver exceptional torque (over 130 N•m) and a wide motion range (up to 320°). This enables it to execute advanced, high-burst maneuvers such as recovering from forceful impacts and standing up from a prone position, providing a robust foundation for demanding commercial applications and future development.
MagicDog: Intelligent, Lifelike Companionship
More than a toy, MagicDog is designed as a true home companion. This quadruped robot features 13 degrees of freedom and integrates multi-modal audio, visual, and tactile interaction to foster genuine emotional bonds. Its standout “head-tail coordination” technology and bio-inspired design create a uniquely lifelike presence, redefining the companion robot as an agile and responsive member of the household.
For MagicLab, CES was more than a product showcase; it was a strategic platform for global engagement. By presenting these innovations, the company reinforces its commitment to a “Commercialization, Globalization” strategy, aiming to accelerate the real-world deployment of embodied intelligence on a worldwide scale.
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At CES 2026, Dreame, a global leader in high-end consumer electronics and intelligent manufacturing, will host a major product launch event for a comprehensive showcase of its innovative advancements driven by global strategic expansion. Dreame will announce its foray into the competitive global television market, unveiling and exhibiting its new premium TV series for the first time. As of December 2025, global orders for Dreame TV have exceeded 100,000 units.
Dreame TV Booth at CES
Key highlights of the presentation will include the future-defining “Black Crystal True Color Screen” and the Aura Mini LED Premium Display technology, which not only underscore Dreame TV’s leadership in television display technology but also reflect its long-term vision and strategic roadmap for future development.
V3000 with Black Crystal True Color Screen: The Pinnacle of Visual Fidelity for Enthusiasts and Gamers
Engineered to be the centerpiece of a premium home theater, the Dreame Aura Mini LED 4K TV V3000 features the proprietary “Black Crystal True Color Screen” with an ultra-low 1.8% reflectivity. This innovation practically eliminates glare and reflections, ensuring a crystal-clear picture even in brightly lit rooms. It achieves a breakthrough 178° wide viewing angle without color fading.
At its heart is the Aura Mini LED Premium Display technology, synergizing QLED+ and Mini LED to deliver breathtaking picture quality with exceptional color volume (over 1.07 billion colors), 98% DCI-P3 wide color gamut, and remarkable 2800 nits peak brightness.
The V3000 is also a gaming powerhouse, featuring a blazing-fast 300Hz refresh rate, an ultra-low 5.3ms response time, and support for VRR, ALLM, and AMD FreeSync™ Premium.
S100: The All-in-One Entertainment Powerhouse with Built-In Theater Soundbar
Designed for consumers seeking a complete entertainment solution, the Dreame Aura Mini LED 4K TV S100 utilizes an advanced Aura Mini LED backlight system with full-array local dimming for precise light control and impressive contrast.
Its 1000 nits peak brightness and QLED+ technology ensure sharp, lifelike detail. The custom Dreamind™ Pro AI Processor intelligently upscales 2K content to near-4K quality.
The most groundbreaking aspect is its integrated Dreame 4.1.2ch Master Sound System—a high-performance soundbar built directly into the TV. It houses 11 dedicated sound units, delivers 70W peak output, and features 270° physical sound coverage for an immersive audio environment.
Expanding the Lifestyle and Audio-Visual Ecosystem
The Dreame TV continues to bridge technology and aesthetics through its lifestyle product series, including the T2 laser projector. For CES 2026, Dreame will introduce two high-performance home theater soundbars. The Dreame Pano S2 Soundbar boasts a 5.1.2ch Pro Dolby Surround System, while the Dreame Pano S1 fuses Bauhaus design with a 3.1.2ch Pro Dolby System.
Dreame also will unveil the Professional WUHD 5K Monitor X1 Ultra and the MegPad M2 Pro. The X1 Ultra enhances productivity with 5K resolution and Multi-Window Modes, and the M2 Pro redefines home entertainment with 4K delicate image quality and a Long-Lasting Power Hub.
Product Availability and Price
The Aura Mini LED 4K TV V3000 is anticipated to launch globally in 2026, with a projected retail price range of $2,299 to $7,999.
The Aura Mini LED 4K TV S100 is now available in select regions, priced between $1,299 and $3,999.
About Dreame Technology
Established in 2017, Dreame Technology is a global leader in high-end consumer electronics and intelligent manufacturing with the vision to empower lives through technology. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. For more information, visit https://global.dreametech.com/
-“Any Wear, Anywhere” Service Reduces Packing Burdens, Supports More Sustainable Travel-
TOKYO, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cosmos Hotel Management Co., Ltd., operator of the apartment-style accommodation brand MIMARU, has joined Sumitomo Corporation’s “Any Wear, Anywhere” clothing-sharing service to offer the service to inbound family travelers staying at MIMARU.
The service will launch on January 19, 2026, with reservations opening on January 7, 2026. Family travel to Japan often involves challenges such as preparing clothing suited to local climate conditions, transporting large amounts of luggage for family members, and handling unused clothing or suitcases during or after the trip. The service aims to ease these burdens by reducing the need to bring extensive wardrobes while encouraging more environmentally conscious travel.
“Any Wear, Anywhere” was launched by Sumitomo Corporation in July 2023. Travelers staying at MIMARU can reserve clothing sets online in advance, selecting options according to season and travel purpose, receive them at their place of stay, and return them within Japan after use. By reducing clothing transportation and disposal, the service supports more sustainable tourism. For its introduction at MIMARU, the lineup has been expanded to better accommodate families traveling with children.
Guest feedback has highlighted the service’s practicality:
“I don’t usually own winter clothing, and with children growing quickly, bulky winter wear is difficult to pack. Renting felt like better value than filling a suitcase,” shared a traveler from Singapore.
“The clothes were comfortable for exploring Tokyo, and having extra space in my suitcase meant more room for shopping,” commented a traveler from Australia.
“Arriving to find the clothes ready and simply returning them at the front desk made the experience very easy. Everything was clean and of good quality,” noted a traveler from the United States.
MIMARU is an apartment-style accommodation brand offering spacious guest rooms starting from approximately 40 square meters, designed for families and groups to stay together comfortably. Over 90 percent of its guests are international families. In addition to clothing sharing, MIMARU provides services such as same-day luggage delivery and other family-oriented initiatives to enhance convenience for inbound tourists.
Tackle rising business costs and trade barriers with a unified digital platform for Free Trade Agreements as well as build stronger economic partnerships.
Bridge AI adoption gaps by co-funding shared data pools and introducing a regional “Trusted AI” mark to drive innovation and governance.
Future-proof the workforce with targeted work visas for global experts, job transformation roadmaps, and advanced leadership programmes.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2026 – KPMG in Singapore and the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) are pleased to announce the release of a joint Budget 2026 Proposal, titled “Prospering in a New Global Landscape”.
From Left to Right: Yong Jiahao, Partner, Infrastructure, Government & Healthcare (IGH) & Industrial Manufacturing, Tax, KPMG; Ajay Kumar Sanganeria, Partner and Head of Tax, KPMG; Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG; Max Loh Khum Whai, Vice-Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors; Edwin Lee, Deputy CEO, Singapore Institute of Directors
By fostering resilient economic linkages, embedding digital trust, and cultivating world-class talent and leadership with cross-domain expertise, Singapore can ensure its businesses and economy remain secure, innovative, and competitive in an uncertain global landscape.
This Proposal outlines strategies to position Singapore as a critical hub for global flows, covering three crucial areas:
A new global order: Resilience as a pivotal growth strategy
The Intelligent Age: Smart solutions for an innovative era
The recommendations in the proposal are also supported by data-driven insights from a survey recently conducted by KPMG and SID. More than 1,000 professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) and business owners were surveyed on the challenges they face and the kinds of Budget 2026 support they hoped to see. [For more information, please refer to the deck with the full survey results: https://kpmg.com/sg/en/campaigns/kpmg-singapore-budget.html ]
Empowering businesses to leverage Singapore’s trusted role as a global connector
Global commerce is rapidly transforming amid rising protectionism, shifting trade rules, evolving tax regimes, and geopolitical tensions. Singapore’s long-term prosperity in the new global order depends on its ability to lead as a trusted connector and aggregator of the flows of goods, capital, data, and talent.
Singapore must strengthen its economic linkages, build secure and interoperable digital platforms, cultivate a workforce equipped with cross-domain expertise, and equip boards with essential skills to navigate emerging risks and opportunities. Trusted and resilient economic linkages will ensure the seamless movement of goods, services, and investments, while interoperable digital platforms will play a critical facilitation role in enabling cross-verification of information, streamlining compliance, and fostering trust across borders. These efforts are especially important in helping businesses cope with shifting regulations. KPMG and SID’s survey found that 51 percent of respondents identified increased business costs as the main challenge to cross-border expansion, followed by higher tariffs (26 percent) and supply chain difficulties (25 percent). To address these challenges, 43 percent of respondents want stronger economic and trade partnerships to overcome trade barriers.
KPMG and SID recommend:
a) Developing a unified digital platform for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) management (page 7) to help businesses navigate complex procedures and unlock the full benefits of FTAs. This would be seamlessly integrated with government systems, making it more seamless and cost-effective for businesses to comply with FTA requirements. This would enable firms to leverage Singapore’s extensive FTA network to gain footholds in new markets, further enhancing Singapore’s regional and global competitiveness.
b) Increasing access to working capital to accelerate local enterprises’ strategic transformation and implementing industry-specific governance frameworks (page 7). With geopolitical shifts driving a more complex regulatory landscape, increased and dedicated funding would enable businesses to transform for the future while responding effectively to evolving governance standards. Such funding should be complemented by industry-specific governance playbooks to equip boards with essential tools to strengthen agility and resilience.
c) Enhancing Singapore’s government-backed trade platform with blockchain and AI (page 6). The global economy has seen an increase in supply chain disruptions amid geopolitical and trade uncertainties. An enhanced Government-backed trade platform would enable Singapore to further facilitate the flow of trusted payments, making it even easier for businesses to validate transactions and act on smart recommendations to elevate supply chain efficiency. Amid a more fragmented world, the enhanced platform would also reinforce Singapore’s position as a reliable hub for global commerce, by promoting increased supply chain transparency for critical industries like semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing.
d) Introducing progressive carbon taxes to reward decarbonisation and establish performance-based pathways for large emitters (page 9). Singapore’s carbon taxes must evolve to consider unique business needs and companies’ decarbonisation plans. Progressive carbon tax rates post-2030 – based on facility emissions volume, emissions per unit of output, and sectoral abatement potential – could be accompanied by permanent conditional tax rebates for energy-intensive, trade-exposed sectors. These rebates could be based on set criteria such as verified year-on-year reductions in carbon intensity and investments in low-carbon technology. To strengthen these efforts, Singapore could also establish an ASEAN Environmental Data Exchange to facilitate the sharing of standardised and interoperable environmental data between Singapore and its regional trade partners (page 8). The exchange would improve the flows of green trade and green capital, enabling Singapore to be a regional hub for environmental data harmonisation. Organisations like the Singapore Institute of Directors could play a catalytic role by building board-level capability, aligning disclosure expectations and promoting best practices through director education, guidance frameworks and peer learning on a regional scale, helping boards to lead initiatives like progressive carbon taxation.
Fostering an ecosystem of Trusted AI in the Agentic Era
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping global competitiveness, with agentic AI—capable of autonomous decision-making—introducing both transformative opportunities and significant challenges. While agentic AI can drive innovation, optimise operations, and unlock new efficiencies, it also raises critical concerns around accountability, ethical deployment, and governance.
A critical enabler of AI’s potential is data sharing, yet this often proves difficult due to competition, concerns over intellectual property, and a lack of trust between organisations. Businesses—particularly smaller enterprises—also face cost constraints in accessing high-quality data, and many also lack the strategic clarity and workforce competencies to identify where AI can augment their operations.
KPMG and SID’s poll found that 54 percent of respondents cited talent and skills gaps as the top challenge for adopting AI, followed by high costs of technology adoption (52 percent) and a lack of clear AI adoption strategies (48 percent). By addressing these concerns, Singapore will be able to fully leverage the vast potential of AI and data to reinforce its status as a hub across various sectors.
KPMG and SID recommend:
a) Co-funding sector-specific shared data pools in partnership with trade associations and industry stakeholders (page 15). These shared, anonymised data pools would enable businesses to access high-quality datasets without incurring prohibitive costs. Tailored to specific sectors such as logistics and retail, these pools would facilitate benchmarking, model training, and experimentation under a trusted framework that safeguards data privacy and protects intellectual property. Shared data initiatives should be paired with guided AI adoption support to help businesses understand how AI can enhance specific parts of their value chain. For example, targeted support could help logistics firms optimise supply chains or assist retailers in leveraging AI to personalise customer experiences. This dual approach would enable broader AI adoption and accelerate innovation across industries.
b) Enhancing the public-private partnership (PPP) framework to accelerate AI adoption (page 15). As firms navigate high costs and limited guidance around AI adoption, there is an opportunity for the Government to provide greater access to infrastructure to lower barriers for AI experimentation and deployment. The enhanced framework would create positive spillover effects from existing AI initiatives, as government agencies, academia and industry stakeholders collaborate to strategically integrate AI solutions into business strategies. The framework could also promote cross-sector collaboration in key industries, fostering a culture of open innovation in AI. To bolster digital trust, Singapore could also establish a regional “Trusted AI” mark to drive harmonisation and innovation (page 12). Although Singapore’s Model AI Governance Framework provides a strong foundation for responsible AI deployment, there is still a largely untapped opportunity for Singapore to champion an assurance label that shows firms have AI controls aligned with recognised AI governance standards. By pushing regionalrecognition of this mark, Singapore could accelerate cross-border innovation and trade. The mark would build on initiatives like AI Verify and Project Moonshot, which have helped to promote Trusted AI in Singapore.
c) Supporting hands-on AI governance training for board members and executives (page 13) through a dedicated fund. This would complement existing SkillsFuture programmes which focus primarily on AI awareness, by expanding the emphasis to address strategic and operational gaps at the leadership level – covering ethical deployment, change management and cross-domain applications.
Building globally relevant leaders with cross-domain skills
To fulfil its role as a hub for global flows, Singapore must enable its businesses to navigate a complex web of governance requirements, trade rules, tax policies, and tariffs. While compliance with governance standards will bring higher upfront costs, it also provides a foundation for businesses to lead in innovation and competitiveness. For instance, businesses that embrace sustainability compliance can innovate in areas like green finance, carbon accounting, and environmental data exchange.
Yet, none of this is possible without specialised talent and leadership. Singapore needs professionals and board leaders with expertise in areas such as supply chain management, AI governance, and sustainability strategy. These individuals must be able to connect the dots across domains, such as linking data governance with trade compliance or integrating sustainability goals into business operations. The need for enhanced talent development also emerged from KPMG and SID’s survey findings. Forty-nine percent of respondents want more skills development and upskilling courses. Meanwhile, 42 percent hope for more support for workforce transformation and job redesign, such as higher grants. In addition, 37 percent of respondents want more leadership and management development initiatives, especially in the areas of mentorship and coaching for emerging leaders and advanced leadership programmes.
KPMG and SID recommend:
a) Creating a dedicated work-pass category for “master trainers” and mentors (page 18). The work-pass would encourage international professionals to join local companies, public agencies and training institutions to lead structured upskilling or leadership development programmes. This would accelerate skills transfer, expose workers to global best practices, and build a robust pipeline of talent capable of driving strategic transformation and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Structured leadership development programmes could also include peer-sharing platforms (page 21) aimed at promoting transformation training among C-suite leaders. Backed by the public sector and industry stakeholders, such platforms could foster the exchange of best practices, promote collective learning on key sustainability capabilities and empower leaders to proactively redesign roles and workflows ahead of market shifts.
b) Setting up job transformation roadmaps with co-funded training and certification initiatives (page 19) tied closely to sector-specific needs. As rapid technological developments shape industry demand for skills, job transformation roadmaps would be beneficial in outlining sector-specific disruptions, challenges and opportunities. These roadmaps could be accompanied by industry-recognised certification, and programmes backed by both the public and private sectors. Tailored to sectoral needs, certifications could help to assess whether workers have acquired the necessary skills to perform in transformed roles, especially in fast-evolving sectors where traditional qualifications may no longer suffice.
c) Establishing a $100 million fund to advance social impact reporting (page 9). As Singapore pursues long-term resilience, it must also ensure that economic growth is sustainable and inclusive. The fund could be used to train professionals and board directors in the reporting of social metrics, support academic modules in social sustainability and certify social auditors and advisers. It could also be complemented by broader efforts to enhance environmental, social and governance (ESG) competencies among businesses’ top leadership. Singapore could establish a national registry of certified sustainability committee members (page 20) who can be matched to boards and committees across sectors. This would help to expand access to qualified board resources, especially for local enterprises.
Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG in Singapore, said:
“Leadership today isn’t just about mastering AI or acquiring specialised skills—it’s about navigating the intersections of cross-border trade, technology, and sustainability. To remain competitive, leaders must move beyond the basics, using AI and data to drive real business outcomes while building governance frameworks that inspire trust. At the same time, they need the courage to take calculated risks and collaborate across ecosystems to unlock new opportunities. Initiatives like co-funding sector-specific shared data pools and guided AI adoption support are critical to overcoming barriers and equipping leaders with the tools to thrive. As disruptions grow increasingly cross-border and cross-domain, Singapore’s ability to cultivate leaders who can turn complexity into opportunity will define its success as a global flows hub.”
Ajay Kumar Sanganeria, Partner, Head of Tax, KPMG in Singapore, said:
“Singapore’s position as a global hub—connecting trade, data, and capital—offers businesses significant opportunities to grow and compete globally. Grants and platforms are vital enablers, but they must be part of a broader solution that simplifies complexities and empowers businesses to focus on innovation. Future-ready approaches, such as managing governance and compliance in a more consolidated or ‘as-a-service’ mode, can reduce burdens on enterprises. A unified digital platform for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) management, enhanced with blockchain and AI, could streamline compliance and unlock the full benefits of Singapore’s FTA network. Co-funded training programmes and shared governance frameworks can further help businesses pool resources and build capabilities. By combining grants, platforms, and smarter ways of working, Singapore strengthens its role as a trusted global connector and equips businesses to lead with confidence in an evolving world.”
Yeoh Oon Jin, Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors, said:
“Singapore’s future as a global hub for connectivity and commerce will be shaped by how boards of directors evolve to lead with resilience and trust. Budget 2026 is an opportunity to strengthen governance frameworks that embed sustainability, cyber trust and accountability into every organisation’s agenda. By empowering directors to champion innovation, sustainability and digital assurance, organisations can grow with confidence while reinforcing Singapore’s position as a secure and trusted connector for goods, capital, data and talent in an increasingly complex global landscape.” Hashtag: #KPMG #SID
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About KPMG in Singapore
KPMG in Singapore is part of a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 142 countries and territories with more than 275,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.
About SID
The Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) is Singapore’s national association for company directors. Established in 1998, our mission is to transform boards and empower board directors to be champions of good governance. SID works with regulators and partners to serve as the voice for directors and facilitates consultations and feedback sessions on regulatory matters. In advocating for good governance, SID advances thought leadership and benchmarking research and indices on corporate governance and directorship issues.
SID builds competencies and capabilities to enhance boardroom skills of directors for informed decision-making. An accreditation programme serves to set standards for and showcase best practices of good governance. The organisation supports members on their directorship journey with courses, workshops, advanced masterclasses, forum discussions and pit-stops. SID connects and strengthens the ecosystem with initiatives such as mentoring and networking. The Governance for Good Alliance is an initiative by SID to bring together key stakeholders who help advance our vision for every board director to be a champion of good governance.
Leaders from Airbus Defence & Space and ST Engineering to Deliver Keynotes at Space Summit 2026
SINGAPORE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Organised by Experia Events, Space Summit 2026 in Singapore (2–3 February) will serve as the primary staging ground for international industry leaders and space chiefs to define the next era of orbital commerce as the commercialisation of space technology gathers pace.
The Summit arrives at a critical inflection point. The rapid growth of satellite constellations driven by lower launch costs and more mature space technologies is pushing the sector towards a more market-driven phase — where execution, system integration, regulatory clarity and long-term commercial sustainability increasingly determine success.
Against this backdrop, Space Summit 2026 will focus on the business models, investment frameworks and partnership structures required to scale activity across the space value chain. Discussions will examine how organisations are managing cost pressures, infrastructure readiness, regulatory requirements and sustainability considerations as activity in orbit accelerates.
Featured Commercial Panels: From Launch to In-Space Infrastructure The Summit will feature deep-dives into the three structural shifts reshaping the market:
Innovations in the Launcher Business New, more affordable launch systems are making space more accessible. This panel examines how advances in launcher design, propulsion systems and manufacturing are reshaping the global launch market, particularly beyond the U.S. ecosystem. Featuring leaders from Agnikul, Equatorial Space, IHI Aerospace, Perigee Aerospace and PLD Space; the discussion will explore obtainable markets for emerging and regional launch providers, the role of reusability in improving economics and the strategic trade-offs between remaining a pure-play launcher business versus diversifying across the value chain. Panellists will also assess how supply-chain resilience, sustainability requirements and public–private partnerships are shaping competitiveness, alongside the market impact of next-generation, much larger launch vehicles.
The Next Frontier: Opportunities in the Future In-Space Economy This session focuses on how the in-space economy can translate innovation into near-term commercial value. With perspectives from Infinite Orbits, Transcelestial, Zero Error Systems, investment firm Speciale Invest, and NASA; the panel will examine which segments — from in-orbit servicing and autonomous systems to microgravity manufacturing — are most likely to scale first. Discussion will also address how early value is expected to be captured through high-value products, data and intellectual property as well as the infrastructure, regulatory frameworks and financing models required to de-risk capital-intensive, long-horizon space ventures.
Asia Pacific Rising: Market Opportunities and Regional Capabilities With Asia Pacific being one of the world’s fastest-growing space markets, this panel highlights the region’s expanding role across manufacturing, launch and downstream applications. Featuring companies including Addvalue, Eartheye, GomSpace and Satrec Initiative; the discussion will examine how diverse space economies, from established space powers to rapidly emerging players, are developing specialised capabilities and responding to strong regional demand for connectivity, disaster resilience and Earth observation services. The session will also explore investment priorities, cross-border partnerships and policy frameworks supporting private-sector growth, underscoring Asia Pacific’s deeper integration into the global space value chain.
Beyond these discussions, Space Summit 2026 will feature a comprehensive programme exploring commercial, regulatory and industry developments across the global space value chain.
Keynotes & Leadership Participation Space Summit 2026 will be attended by Dr Tan See Leng, Singapore’s Minister for Manpower and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, as Guest of Honour.
The Summit will also feature keynote insights from Michael Schoellhorn, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Defence & Space, outlining opportunities for next-generation system architectures, digital integration and cross-border collaboration.
ST Engineering, a Founding Partner of Space Summit 2026, will contribute perspectives on capability development, talent pipelines and ecosystem collaboration across the regional and global space landscape.
“As a Founding Partner of Space Summit 2026, ST Engineering believes that collaboration, talent development and cross-industry partnerships are essential to unlocking the full potential of the global space sector. The Summit provides a vital platform for connecting ideas, capabilities and people to drive the next phase of the industry’s growth,” said Goh Ing Nam, General Manager, Satellite Systems & Geo-Insights, ST Engineering.
“Space has always symbolised possibility and pioneering, but today it is becoming a foundation for economic growth, environmental stewardship, national resilience and security, and for human progress. We are excited to engage with colleagues across the international space community at Space Summit 2026 to exchange perspectives on current industry developments,” said Michael Schoellhorn, Chief Executive Officer, Airbus Defence & Space.
Airbus Defence & Space, Senior Vice President – Head of Space Digital, Eric Even, will also be speaking on one of the panels. He will highlight the company’s commitment to next-generation digital infrastructure and strategic collaboration across the space value chain.
Strengthening Leadership Diversity Across the Programme The programme also features senior female executives from across satellite operations and space services, including Dr Gay Jane Perez, Officer-in-Charge, Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA); Alexandra Vidyuk, Chief Executive Officer & General Partner, Beyond Earth Ventures; Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, Chief Executive Officer, Tototheo Global; Marion Andrieux, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Infinite Orbits; Isabel Liu, Co-founder & Vice President, GalaxySpace; Rebecca Levy, Asia Representative, NASA; and Tiana Desker, Deputy Executive Director, Office for Space Technology & Industry Singapore. Their participation reflects the growing role of women at the helm of decision-making across the global space ecosystem.
Space Agencies Participating in Space Summit 2026 Confirmed agencies for Space Summit 2026 include the: Brazilian Space Agency (AEB), European Space Agency (ESA), German Space Agency (DLR), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), NASA, Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), UAE Space Agency (UAE SA) and Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).
This reflects the Summit’s growing role as a neutral platform for international dialogue on capability development, regulatory alignment and commercial growth across the global space ecosystem.
Newly Confirmed Speakers for Space Summit 2026 include:
Airbus Defence and Space – Eric Even, Senior Vice President – Head of Space Digital
Amphitrite – Dr Alexandre Stegner, Chief Executive Officer
ArkEdge Space Inc. – Takayoshi Fukuyo, Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Astroscale Japan Inc. – Hideki Kato, President & Managing Director
Leonardo Space Division – Massimo Claudio Comparini, Managing Director, Space Division
CesiumAstro – Shey Sabripour, Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Viasat – Joel Klooster, Senior Vice President Aircraft Operations & Advanced Air Mobility
These new additions further strengthen the growing line-up of international space-agency leaders, industry CEOs and innovators confirmed for the event. They join the broader roster of speakers announced in our earlier update.
Limited Sponsorship and Participation Opportunities Remains With strong interest from across the global space value chain, sponsorship and participation opportunities at Space Summit 2026 are running out. The Summit’s exhibition will feature a curated mix of satellite operators, technology providers, launch and in-space infrastructure companies, and downstream solution providers, offering participants direct access to decision-makers from government, commercial and institutional sectors.
Companies interested in exhibiting are encouraged to confirm their participation early as space is limited and allocations may be finalised without further notice.
Event Information Event: Space Summit 2026 Dates: 2-3 February 2026 Venue: Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands Singapore Website: https://spacesummit.singaporeairshow.com/
Participation and Sponsorship For more information about participation or sponsorship opportunities at Space Summit, please contact Experia Events at +65 6595 6320 and thiamjieang@experiaevents.com.
About Experia Events Pte Ltd Specialist in conceptualising, creating and curating trade events of strategic interest that spur industry development, Experia brings together captains of industries from all over the world to inspire ideas and influence decisions that move the needle in strategic issues for global, national and societal needs and progress. With its genesis in the Singapore Airshow, one of the most influential airshows globally, Experia’s portfolio of events has expanded to span aerospace, defence, government, lifestyle and space sectors today. Experia is certified with a Data Protection Trustmark issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore, ISO27001 Information Security Management System and the MICE Sustainability Certification. For more information, visit http://www.experiaevents.com
About Space Summit Space Summit is a premier international conference and exhibition dedicated to advancing global dialogue and collaboration in the space industry. The Summit will bring together leaders, innovators and policymakers to explore the technologies, partnerships and business models driving the next phase of space exploration and commercialisation. For more information on Space Summit, visit https://spacesummit.singaporeairshow.com/
Champasack Province has officially established 46 new sub-districts across 10 districts, covering 642 villages. This photo is used for representational purpose only.
On 2 January, Champasack Province officially established 46 new sub-districts (Ta Saeng) across 10 districts, becoming the second province in the country after the capital, Vientiane, to make the move.
Approved in December 2025, the plan is to launch 46 sub-districts spanning 642 villages across the province, with each district divided into 4 to 5 sub-districts to strengthen local government and public service delivery.
The sub-district system was first introduced during French colonial rule in 1920 but was abolished in the 1990s.
The reintroduction began in early 2025 under the former Ministry of Home Affairs, with Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone signing final approval in November 2025 as part of nationwide efforts to strengthen local governance and public service delivery which will have 640 Ta Saengs nationwide. The plan will establish 640 Ta Saengs across the country.
According to authorities, the reform brings governance closer to communities by improving administrative efficiency.
Each sub-district will form committees responsible for governance, economic development, cultural and social affairs, and public security.
Mixed Opinions
Public reaction is mixed.
Some residents welcome the reform, hoping it will make local administration more accessible and improve public services.
Meanwhile, others expressed their concern that it could create additional positions, increase government spending, and complicate administrative procedures.
“I think it will improve efficiency in administration and public services for the people,” one comment read.
One resident commented, “If the reform makes administration more convenient, it’s positive; if it creates positions for their siblings, it wastes the budget.”
Previously, Vientiane Capital designated Xangmixay as its first sub-district in Xaythany district on 31 December 2025.