SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2025 – China’s leading new-style tea brand HEYTEA has officially received Halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), marking a major step forward in its localisation and compliance efforts in the Malaysian market.
HEYTEA Secures Halal Certification in Malaysia, Marks Milestone With Nationwide Free Drink Event
To mark the certification, HEYTEA held a nationwide “Halal Day” free-drink event on November 7. Stores saw long queues from opening hours, with consumers posting photos and videos online. The event quickly went viral across Malaysia, driving strong engagement and heavy footfall.
Powered by the surge in attention, the HEYTEA app quickly climbed to the top of the Malaysia App Store’s Food & Drink category that same day, underscoring the brand’s growing digital momentum.
HEYTEA also extended the celebration with app-based member rewards through November 20, including 1,000 free-drink vouchers released daily from November 8–13 and a points-for-discount redemption campaign from November 14–20.
HEYTEA entered Malaysia in December 2023 with its first store at The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur—its second Southeast Asian market after Singapore. The brand now operates 15 stores across Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Penang, Pahang, and Selangor, covering major commercial districts and high-traffic retail areas.
Globally, HEYTEA continues to accelerate its international expansion, with more than 100 stores across Singapore, the UK, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, the US, and South Korea. The brand is also strengthening its supply chain capabilities, localised product development, and global brand expression to serve diverse markets.
The Halal certification and nationwide giveaway significantly amplified HEYTEA’s visibility and strengthened its connection with Malaysian consumers, marking an important milestone in the brand’s ongoing localisation journey.
Hashtag: #HEYTEA
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About HEYTEA
Founded in 2012 in Jiangmen, Guangdong, China, HEYTEA is widely recognised as the originator of new-style tea beverages. The brand created the world’s first cheese tea using real tea and real milk, setting a new standard for the industry. Guided by a commitment to quality and innovation, HEYTEA insists on using real ingredients—real tea, real milk, real fruit, and real sugar—while continuously developing products that resonate with young consumers globally. Today, HEYTEA has expanded across major markets in Asia, North America, Europe, and Oceania, becoming one of the most influential new-style tea brands worldwide.
Step into Noëlia, a picturesque winter village featuring Hong Kong’s largest interactive Wishing Lake, alongside seasonal activities and the district-wide celebration in Central
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2025 – This festive season, LANDMARK welcomes a new chapter of holiday magic to Central, unveiling “Noëlia at LANDMARK: Joy Begins With Giving” — a one-of-a-kind experience and its largest festive installation to date. From 21 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, LANDMARK ATRIUM will transform into an enchanting French château‑inspired winter village, rising 11 metres high and spanning 30 metres across. This immersive spectacle offers captivating experiences at every turn, from Hong Kong’s largest interactive Wishing Lake to the thrilling slide and specially designed photo opportunities, all coming together to create a memorable holiday atmosphere.
Mr. Alexander Li, Director and Head of Retail, Hong Kong & Macau, Hongkong Land Limited, said: “For generations, LANDMARK has been synonymous with Central’s most festive moments. This year, with Noëlia at LANDMARK and our wider partnershipwith the Hong Kong Tourism Board, we not only honour that legacy but also reaffirm our commitment to keeping Central vibrant and inspiring. It reflects the spirit of our ongoing Tomorrow’s CENTRAL transformation — delivering unique new experiences and making Central more exciting than ever for everyone.”
A Village of Wishes and Wonder: Experience Noëlia at LANDMARK
Legend whispers that far beneath the winter skies lies a festive town – Noëlia. Cradled between snowfall and starlight, the fabled lakeside village awakens with the season of giving, revealing itself in all its splendour within LANDMARK ATRIUM.
Beneath the watchful glow of a towering lighthouse, in a world alive with festive energy and intricate details, visitors will discover Lake Lumière — Hong Kong’s largest interactive Wishing Lake. Revered in old tales and said to make all wishes come true, it invites guests to cast an enchanted coin into its shimmering surface. As a wish is dedicated to someone special, mystical guardians underwater carry this heartfelt sentiment into Noëlia’s magical realm, illuminating an impressive 12-by-12-metre LED canvas and creating an unforgettable moment right in the heart of LANDMARK.
For those seeking a thrill, the Starlit Slide offers a sweeping, 8-metre descent curving through Noëlia, a delight for the young and the young at heart. Guests can also capture cherished memories at the Festive Photo Studio by Don’t Lxxk Up, a trendy sensation from Korea, perfect for posing with Noëlia villagers and taking home a unique keepsake.
Upon entering the Noëlia Golden Gateway, every turn promises new discoveries and delight. The majestic 11‑metre lighthouse adds a dramatic silhouette, while above Noëlia’s wise owl circles its peak, joined by a gently drifting Airship Voyage that animates the winter skyline. Interactive features bring the village to life — from the Grand Chime where playful gingerbread folk appear and spin with every toll, the Livres & Lumières bookshop with its chimney puffing smoke into the crisp air, the Curious Courier’s fantastical hot-air balloons, to the Floured & Frosted cake shop tempting the eye with mouth-watering creations. Visitors can also capture a special moment in a whimsical sidecar photo spot — a nod to vintage holiday travel — perfect for sharing smiles and memories with friends and family.
In Theo’s Studio, artistry meets illumination with Baccarat’s grand crystal chandelier, casting a warm radiance. Baccarat gift boxes, ornaments, and candles in signature red packaging adorn the worktable to accentuate the atelier’s refinement. Nearby, the Silver Reverie window display evokes a winter legend frozen in silver, showcasing Christofle’s iconic collections. These timeless designs bring artisanal elegance and countless silver reflections to Noëlia’s streetscape.
Moreover, every half-hour, Noëlia reveals a breathtaking light show, enveloping the entire landscape in a glittering cascade. From intricate façades to kinetic, interactive details, every element is crafted to immerse visitors in a celebration where generosity and imagination meet.
A curated range of Noëlia‑themed merchandise is available at The Gift Shop located at G/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM, giving visitors a chance to bring the village’s holiday charm home.
Entry to the full Noëlia experience is ticketed, with all proceeds from stage pass and merchandise salesdonated toSideBySide — a local charity dedicated to empowering and supporting youth in rehabilitation.
Unlock Joyful Wishes Rewards and Enjoy Curated Gifts
This festive season, LANDMARK elevates the spirit of celebration with an array of unparalleled “Joyful Wishes Rewards”. From 20 November to 26 December 2025, every shopping excursion and culinary experience across LANDMARK unlocks a world of exclusive privileges.
Shoppers can enjoy up to 5x BESPOKE Rewards Points and shopping vouchers of up to HK$4,200. Further sweetening the experience are curated festive treats and gifts valued at up to HK$2,588 from Mandarin Oriental, Caviar House & Prunier, Christofle and more. For the very first time, shoppers also receive complimentary stage passes to the Noëlia experience — making this year’s celebrations the most magical yet.
Shoppers who spend with AMEX Centurion® / The Platinum Card® / American Express® Peninsula Platinum Cards can also enjoy the AMEX-exclusive Bonus Rewards to unlock the maximum rewards.
*Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to the website for more details.
Special Offers for “Winter Wonderland in Central” Visitors Beyond “Noëlia at LANDMARK”, Hongkong Land proudly partners with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to transform Central into a festive hub with “Winter Wonderland in Central”.
Visitors who make a purchase or participate in a workshop at “Winter Wonderland in Central” can extend their celebrations to LANDMARK with an exclusive offer: a special HK$50 discount will be available to those purchasing two or more stage passes at the Noëlia Gift Shop on the G/F of LANDMARK Atrium, upon presenting their receipt.
This holiday season, LANDMARK invites everyone to experience the magic of Noëlia and the joy of giving — creating festive memories to treasure long after the season ends.
Please note children aged 11 or below must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
Gift Shop & Merchandise
Hashtag: #LANDMARKHK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About LANDMARK
LANDMARK represents the epitome of top-tier luxury shopping and lifestyle experiences. Drawing from a rich heritage which began in 1904 – LANDMARK today is the luxury shopping destination of Hongkong Land’s Central portfolio including 4 iconic connected buildings, LANDMARK ATRIUM, LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, LANDMARK CHATER and LANDMARK PRINCE’S. LANDMARK offers approximately 208 of the finest stores and restaurants, all seamlessly linked by pedestrian bridges. From high fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery, from luxury living to beauty and grooming, from international cuisine to authentic gourmet dining, LANDMARK brings the ultimate shopping experience to the discerning customer.
About Hongkong Land
Hongkong Land is a major listed property investment, management and development group. The Group focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. Its mixed-use real estate footprint spans more than 850,000 sq. m., with flagship projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. The Group’s Hong Kong Central portfolio represents some 450,000 sq. m. of prime property. The Group has a further 165,000 sq. m. of prestigious office space in Singapore mainly held through joint ventures and five retail centres on the Chinese mainland, including a luxury retail centre at Wangfujing in Beijing. In Shanghai, the Group owns a 43% interest in a 1.1 million sq. m. mixed-use project in West Bund, which is due to be completed in 2028. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.
GUANGZHOU, China, Nov. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On November 21, the 23rd Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition opened at the Canton Fair Complex. At this year’s show, GAC presented the key achievements of the “Panyu Action” one year after its launch, marking significant progress in organizational reform and innovation.
With user-centric, GAC is sharpening its core competitiveness around “understanding users better, responding faster, and advancing stronger technologies.” GAC officially introduced its Four Growth Engines—new technology, new products, new services, and a new ecosystem—to accelerate the creation of a “New GAC.”
New Technology: GAC will drive breakthroughs across new-energy drivetrains, safety, intelligent chassis systems, and AI technologies, aiming to enhance user experience and enrich mobility.
New Products: By building a comprehensive R&D system for its own brands, GAC will respond precisely to user expectations, offering diversified solutions that meet needs ranging from daily commuting to premium travel experiences.
New Services: GAC is advancing channel transformation to make services more accessible, while continuously enhancing OTA capabilities. Over 300 features and experience upgrades have been added or optimized, ensuring vehicles stay “always updated and continuously improving in value.”
New Ecosystem: GAC will deepen open collaboration across energy ecosystems, charging networks, intelligent platforms, and business model innovation, forging a user-centric ecosystem with shared benefits.
At the 2025 Guangzhou Auto Show, GAC showcased a wide portfolio of intelligent vehicles and mobility solutions. Among its own brands, the flagship HYPTEC A800—jointly developed with HUAWEI—made its official debut. GAC presented multiple versions of the S7, M8 Qian Kun, and S9 Qian Kun. AION exhibited the AION UT Super and AION i60.
In the joint-venture segment, GAC Honda displayed popular models, including the Accord and Odyssey. GAC Toyota highlighted the latest achievements of its “Powerful in Both Petrol and Hybrid” strategy.
In commercial vehicles, the GAC Commercial Vehicles’ new-energy heavy-duty truck T9 was officially launched. Mobility service platform Ruqi Mobility (OnTime) and GAC Toyota Engine also joined the exhibition.
With the Four Growth Engines as its foundation, GAC remains committed to delivering a better mobility experience for users’ worldwide—creating higher-quality, intelligent, and greener travel for the future.
YOKOHAMA, Japan, Nov. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pivotal Trend Service Co., Ltd. (“PTS”) today announced the official launch of its flagship digital asset product, PMN (Pivotal Mining Note), on Republic, marking a significant milestone for the global digital securities industry. PMN becomes the first Japan-originated Security Token Offering (STO) to be compliantly offered in the United States, and the first STO launched following Republic’s recent acquisition of INX.
Designed as a compliant, Bitcoin-linked financial product, PMN aims to transform institutional-grade Bitcoin mining exposure into an accessible, transparent, and user-centric investment opportunity. Built on long-term mining infrastructure and a regulated token framework, PMN provides investors with structured, real-economy Bitcoin production over a fixed 36-month term.
Strong Market Validation and Early Pre-Sale Success
PTS has already completed over USD 2 million in early PMN pre-sales from global institutional investors. This early traction validates PMN’s yield model and underscores the growing demand for compliant, mining-based Bitcoin accumulation products — especially among long-term, stability-focused investors.
A Breakthrough for Cross-Border Digital Finance
For PTS, a company with more than a decade of operational experience in Japan’s telecommunications infrastructure sector, the launch of PMN represents a pivotal step in its strategic transition into global digital asset infrastructure. Through strategic cooperation with top-tier Bitcoin mining companies, PMN is backed by real-world, professionally managed mining operations that ensure stability, transparency, and verifiable BTC output.
Republic + INX: A Unified, Regulated Digital Asset Ecosystem
Republic, a global leader in compliant private markets and digital financial innovation; and
INX, the first SEC-registered platform specifically built for security tokens.
This collaboration provides issuers like PTS with a unified channel for compliant capital formation today — and a regulated pathway for future secondary market possibilities.
“PMN represents more than a product launch — it demonstrates what a new generation of regulated, cross-border digital assets can achieve,” said Doer Qu, CEO of PTS. “Our longstanding collaboration with INX and the strong support from the Republic team made it possible to bring PMN to market smoothly. We aim to make PMN a benchmark STO for the global industry.”
A Product Built for Smart, Long-Term Bitcoin Accumulation
PMN allows investors to participate directly in real-world Bitcoin production via contracted hashrate, without operational complexity. The product offers structured exposure to BTC over a 36-month term, designed for investors seeking sustainable, compliant, mining-backed Bitcoin accumulation.
“With PMN, our mission is to democratize access to institutional-grade Bitcoin mining,” said Merida Pan, CSO of PTS. “We believe regulated, transparent, mining-based financial products will play a major role in the next era of digital asset adoption.”
About Pivotal Trend Service (PTS)
Pivotal Trend Service Co., Ltd. is a Japan-based digital infrastructure and security token solutions provider backed by over a decade of telecom operational expertise. PTS focuses on transforming real-economy infrastructure into compliant, globally accessible digital asset products that bridge traditional industries and the emerging digital financial system.
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2025 – The Road to CNBC Indonesia Awards 2025 has honored VinFast with two recognitions: “Pioneering Brand in Green Transition and Sustainability” and “Compact SUV of the Year” for the VF 7. These achievements add to the growing list of accolades VinFast has earned in Indonesia and strengthen the company’s role, reputation, and long-term vision in advancing green mobility across the archipelago.
Mr. Kariyanto Hardjosoemarto, CEO of VinFast Indonesia (left), receives the awards at the event.
In the corporate category, VinFast was honored with the “Pioneering Brand in Green Transition and Sustainability” award for its comprehensive approach to green mobility, from production, distribution, charging, aftersales, to initiatives that make electric vehicles accessible for Indonesian consumers, such as the innovative battery subscription policy. This, in turn, is making tangible contributions to Indonesia’s green economy by creating jobs, enhancing industrial self-reliance, and accelerating the shift toward green transportation in Indonesia.
More specifically, VinFast is steadily expanding a comprehensive ecosystem that includes electric vehicles, a nationwide network of dealerships and authorized service centers, a planned assembly plant in Subang, and strategic collaborations with partners such as Green SM and V-Green to strengthen charging infrastructure and operational services.
At the award event, the C-segment VinFast VF 7 was also named “Compact SUV of the Year” for its harmonious balance of modern European design, smart technologies, and strong real-world usability. It is seen as a fitting choice for Indonesian consumers and reflects VinFast’s commitment to environmentally friendly products.
The Road to CNBC Indonesia Awards is a key part of CNBC Indonesia’s annual award program that recognizes sustainable enterprises with meaningful contributions to the national economy. The judging panel includes industry experts, academics, senior economic editors, and government representatives, and the final decisions are based on findings from CNBC’s independent research team to ensure a transparent and objective selection process.
Previously, VinFast made a strong impression at the CNN Indonesia Awards 2025, winning “Outstanding Innovation in Sustainable Electric Mobility” and “Remarkable Contribution to Energy Independence”. The company was recognized for introducing a new business model that makes electric vehicles more accessible to the public, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supporting Indonesia’s energy independence goals.
Kariyanto Hardjosoemarto, CEO of VinFast Indonesia, shared: “We are very proud to receive these two awards. They reflect the sustained effort VinFast has put into Indonesia. Innovation only truly matters when its benefits reach the community. This belief drives us to continue expanding a complete electric vehicle ecosystem that brings greater convenience to users and supports Indonesia in moving toward a greener and more progressive future.”
Alongside awards from CNN and CNBC, VinFast also made its mark in Indonesia with four recognitions at the Surabaya International Auto Show 2025. The company’s mini SUV VF 3 was named “Most Impressive EV Newcomer” at the Carvaganza Editors’ Choice Awards. Internationally, VinFast was listed by TIME magazine among the 500 “Best Companies in Asia Pacific 2025” and received multiple honors at the Effie Awards Asia Pacific.
With a diverse product lineup and a comprehensive ecosystem built on meaningful contributions to each market, VinFast is strengthening its position in Southeast Asia, including key markets such as Indonesia.
Hashtag: #VinFast
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.
VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Grant Proceeds Will Accelerate Research and Commercialization of Electrochemical Manufacturing of High-Performance Graphite
DALLAS, Nov. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Solidion Technology Inc. (“Solidion” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: STI), an advanced battery technology solutions provider, was notified by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that it has been awarded a grant to advance research and development of Electrochemical Manufacturing of High-Performance Graphite Based on Biomass-Derived Carbon. This award is one of the projects funded by ARPA-E, the Advanced Research Projects Agency, from their highly competitive OPEN program.
The Company previously announced that it had received the prestigious 2025 R&D 100 Award in partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), for innovation in Electrochemical Graphitization in Molten Salts (E-GRIMS).
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GRANT
Collaboration: Research to be conducted jointly with Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Independence: Assists in the Department of Energy’s mission to reduce imports of critical energy materials from foreign sources, improve American energy independence, and ensure that the U.S. maintains a technological lead in developing and deploying advanced energy technologies.
Jaymes Winters, Chief Executive Officer of Solidion Technology, stated:
“This award demonstrates the cutting edge superiority of Solidion’s extensive patent portfolio and innovation. As a U.S. manufacturer, Solidion is poised to take advantage of its vast technological abilities”
About Solidion Technology, Inc.
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas with pilot production facilities in Dayton, Ohio, Solidion’s (NASDAQ: STI) core business includes manufacturing of battery materials and components, as well as development and production of next-generation batteries for energy storage systems, including UPS systems serving the artificial intelligence (AI) data center market and electric vehicles for ground, aerospace, and sea transportation. Solidion holds a portfolio of over 525 patents, covering innovations such as high-capacity, silane gas free and graphene-enabled silicon anodes, biomass-based graphite, advanced lithium-sulfur and lithium-metal technologies.
For more information, please visit www.solidiontech.com or contact Investor Relations.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Solidion Technology Inc., (NASDAQ: STI) (the “Company,” “Solidion,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.
HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZEEKR Intelligent Technology Holding Limited (“Zeekr Group” or the “Company”) (NYSE: ZK), the world’s leading premium new energy vehicle group, today announced that:
the deadline for holders of the Company’s ordinary shares (each, a “Zeekr Share”) to elect their preferred form of merger consideration by completing the election materials previously sent to such holders is confirmed as 5:00 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Time) on December 5, 2025, unless extended; and
the deadline for registered holders of the Company’s American depositary shares (each, a “Zeekr ADS”, representing ten Zeekr Shares) to elect their preferred form of merger consideration by completing the election materials previously sent to such holders is confirmed as 5:00 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Time) on December 3, 2025 (the “ADS Election Return Deadline”), unless extended.
Holders of Zeekr Shares and registered holders of Zeekr ADSs should carefully read the election materials provided to them, as well as the relevant portions of the proxy statement and the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) among the Company, Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (“Geely”) and Keystone Mergersub Limited before making their elections. As further described in the election materials, to make a valid election, a properly completed election form, together with any other required documents described in the election materials, must be received prior to the applicable election deadline.
Holders of Zeekr ADSs who hold their Zeekr ADSs through a broker, bank, or other intermediary should carefully review and properly complete any election materials they received from such broker, bank, or other intermediary and follow their instructions as to the procedures for making elections, which will have a deadline for election that is prior to the ADS Election Return Deadline. Such holders of Zeekr ADSs should contact their brokers, banks or other intermediaries with any questions.
Any holders of Zeekr Shares or Zeekr ADSs who does not make a proper election by the deadline will have their Zeekr Shares or Zeekr ADSs, as applicable, exchanged into cash consideration as set forth in the Merger Agreement.
The previously announced merger is currently expected to close on or about December 29, 2025 and is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement. The Company will work with the other parties to the Merger Agreement towards satisfying all other conditions precedent to the merger set forth in the Merger Agreement and complete the merger as quickly as possible.
About Zeekr Group
Zeekr Group, headquartered in Zhejiang, China, is the world’s leading premium new energy vehicle group from Geely Holding Group. With two brands, Lynk & Co and Zeekr, Zeekr Group aims to create a fully integrated user ecosystem with innovation as a standard. Utilizing its state-of-the-art facilities and world-class expertise, Zeekr Group is developing its own software systems, e-powertrain, and electric vehicle supply chain. Zeekr Group’s values are equality, diversity, and sustainability. Its ambition is to become a true global new energy mobility solution provider.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to,” or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.
Sumsub offers clients the option to integrate with Singpass as part of its Non-Doc Verification product, enabling secure, compliant, and document-free onboarding for Singaporean users.
Sumsub and NTU Singapore sign a RCA to foster research on watermarking methods for personal images targeting deepfake fraud, marking the first Asia-Pacific initiative under Sumsub’s AI Academic Program.
SINGAPORE, Nov. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sumsub, a global verification and anti-fraud leader, announced two major initiatives at its inaugural What The Fraud Summit (WTF Summit). These include the launch of itsintegration services to Singpass, Singapore’s national digital identity platform, as part of its Non-Doc Identity Verification product, and the signing of a Research Collaboration Agreement (RCA) withNanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), a research-intensive public university, under Sumsub’s AI Academic Program, to jointly advance research on watermarking personal images as a new defense against deepfake fraud—the first initiative of its kind in Asia-Pacific (APAC).
Together, these initiatives reaffirm Sumsub’s commitment to building a safer, more inclusive, and accessible digital future for Singapore and beyond. This also aligns with the country’s Smart Nation 2.0 priorities of strengthening digital trust, driving innovation-led growth, and nurturing a connected, technology-enabled community.
“Singapore stands out as one of the world’s most advanced digital ecosystems, anchored by its focus on security, innovation, and collaboration. As our regional headquarters, Singapore plays a pivotal role in driving our growth and partnerships across APAC,” said Andrew Sever, Co-founder and CEO of Sumsub. “Facilitating integration with Singpass and our research partnership with NTU reflect our commitment to supporting the country’s digital trust ecosystem and to contributing to a safer, fraud-resilient digital environment. At Sumsub, we are dedicated to working alongside regulators, academia, and businesses throughout the region to build a more secure, accessible, and inclusive digital future.”
Seamless, Document-Free User Onboarding with Singpass Integration
By facilitating the integration with Singpass for its clients, Sumsub enables businesses in Singapore—and global companies expanding into the market—to authenticate Singaporean citizens and residents efficiently for seamless onboarding. Clients’ integration requests are submitted to, reviewed, and approved by Singpass on a case-by-case basis. Singpass is familiar to 5 million citizens and residents and trusted across more than 2,700 government and private-sector services.
Sumsub’s role as an aggregator for Singpass integration enables clients to deploy Sumsub’s advanced document-free verification technology on its platform and verify users via secure government databases such as Myinfo. This ensures regulator-approved access to verified identity and address data, fully compliant with Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) AML/CFT obligations and Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) standards.
Login with Singpass enables users to verify their identity by scanning a QR code and authenticating using their biometrics or a six-digit passcode on the Singpass app. Additionally, Singpass Myinfo allows users to consent to sharing verified personal data from government sources to businesses, eliminating the need for manual document submission.
Users can now complete verification in as little as 4.5 seconds, compared to the typical 30 seconds for document-based methods. The process is tamper-proof and secure, and delivers up to 53% reduction in processing time and 35% improvement in customer pass rates. Companies – whether local or global and operating in Singapore – must be registered in Singapore with a UEN number.
In future, Sumsub plans to expand its integration services to more Singpass features. This will allow businesses to complete end-to-end digital onboarding and agreement signing entirely using Singpass.
Research Collaboration with NTU Singapore: Pioneering Human-Imperceptible Watermarks for Digital Identity Defense
At the WTF Summit, Sumsub signed a RCA with NTU Singapore to launch a strategic research collaboration focused on developing advanced protections against deepfake (also known as face-swap) technologies. This initiative is part of Sumsub’s AI Academic Program, which funds and supports academic research tackling emerging identity and fraud risks through collaborative innovation with academic institutions worldwide.
The joint research project with NTU Singapore will explore the use of analogous, human-imperceptible watermarks embedded in personal images to prevent or degrade deepfake generation.
According to Sumsub’s latest internal data, deepfake fraud remains a persistent threat to Singapore, with a staggering record of 158% year-on-year surge in 2025. Together, Sumsub and NTU Singapore will investigate and prototype watermarking methods that deter misuse of personal images on social media platforms, filling a critical gap in digital safety.
Professor Lam Kwok Yan, Associate Vice President (Strategy & Partnerships) and Executive Director of Digital Trust Centre, NTU, said: “Deepfake technologies are advancing rapidly, and their misuse poses growing risks to individuals, businesses and society. Through this collaboration, we are advancing watermarking techniques that can help enhance trust by safeguarding personal identities before misuse occurs. By developing defences that work at scale and in real-world online environments, this research will contribute to Singapore’s broader efforts in building digital trust and ensuring a safer online ecosystem.”
“Our research collaboration with NTU comes at a critical moment for Singapore and the wider APAC, where deepfake fraud and identity threats are escalating at an unprecedented pace,” said Pavel Goldman-Kalaydin, Head of AI and Machine Learning at Sumsub. “This joint project marks the first initiative under our AI Academic Program in the region, and it’s just the beginning. By combining pioneering research with real-world anti-fraud expertise, we aim to equip individuals and organizations with effective defenses against synthetic fraud and contribute to digital safety worldwide.”
The WTF Summit, held from November 19-20, 2025 at Andaz Singapore, marked the first visionary summit dedicated to beating the global “fraudemic”. Bringing together over 500 leaders and practitioners from finance, compliance, technology, and regulation, the event featured close to 60 distinguished speakers across panel discussions, fireside chats, debates, and expert-led certified workshops. Designed as a practical platform for innovation and collaboration, the summit spotlighted emerging challenges in AI-driven fraud, digital identity, and compliance, while reaffirming Singapore’s role as a global hub for advancing digital trust across the Asia-Pacific.
Sumsub is a leading full-cycle verification platform that enables fraud-free, scalable compliance. Its adaptive, no-code solution covers everything from identity and business verification to ongoing monitoring – quickly adjusting to evolving risks, regulations, and market demands.
Over 4,000 clients—including Bitpanda, Wirex, Avis, Bybit, Vodafone, Duolingo, Kaizen Gaming, and TransferGo—trust Sumsub to streamline verification, prevent fraud, and drive growth. The platform’s methodology follows leading global AML standards and regulations, and Sumsub has extensively engaged with leading research and public institutions like the UN, Statista, and INTERPOL.
https://vinfastauto.id/en/
