HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 June 2026 – Hong Kong universities continue to excel on the international stage with five institutions ranked among the world’s top 100 and, for the first time, two in the top 20 of the 2027 World University Rankings published by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) on June 18.

A spokesman for Hong Kong’s Education Bureau (EDB) said that with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s full commitment to developing Hong Kong into an education hub, coupled with the support of a series of policy measures, the city’s higher education system has again excelled.

Announcing the results, QS said in a press release that Hong Kong “emerges as Asia’s most improved higher education system for the second consecutive year, and the second most improved globally among systems with three or more ranked universities”.

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) maintained its position at 11th in the world; The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) rose 14 places to 18th; The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology rose 11 places to 33rd; and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University climbed four places to 50th, entering the world’s top 50 for the first time. Also among the top 100 is City University of Hong Kong, which improved 11 places to 52nd.

In the latest Best Global Universities Rankings published by the U.S. News & World Report just days ago, multiple Hong Kong universities also demonstrated exceptional international competitiveness, with 20 subjects placing in the global top 10. Notably, CUHK, HKU, and The Education University of Hong Kong swept the global top three spots for the Best Global Universities for “Education and Educational Research”, underscoring the city’s prowess in cultivating talents and conducting academic research.

“These achievements fully affirm the effectiveness of the HKSAR Government’s steadfast investment in education and its full support through the University Grants Committee (UGC) for institutions to continuously innovate, optimise, expand capacity, and enhance quality. The significant year-on-year rise in the overall rankings of our institutions further validates Hong Kong’s strong appeal as a premier hub for international high-end talent,” the EDB spokesman said.

“The stellar performance of UGC-funded universities in the international rankings is by no means accidental. On one hand, it relies on the tireless efforts of all institutions to actively recruit world-class scholars and invest in infrastructure. On the other hand, the HKSAR Government’s stable resource investment, clear and supportive policy guidance, as well as the rigorous quality assurance implemented through the University Accountability Agreements, are also of paramount importance.”

The Government will continue to promote the internationalisation and diversification of post-secondary education, which aims to not only enhance Hong Kong’s development momentum but also make proactive contributions to the nation’s development, the spokesman said.

The strength demonstrated by Hong Kong’s higher education system aligns perfectly with the strategic goals set out in the National 15th Five-Year Plan to build a leading nation in education, technology, and talent.

To support the post-secondary education sector to grow bigger and stronger, the Government has raised the admission ceiling for non-local students in taught programmes at funded post-secondary institutions to 50 per cent, and increased the over-enrolment ceiling for self-financing places in funded research postgraduate programmes to 120 per cent, among other measures.

Meanwhile, the Government is promoting the “Study in Hong Kong” brand. The Task Force on Study in Hong Kong, in collaboration with major institutions, is stepping up promotion of Hong Kong’s excellent academic, research, and international collaboration resources on the Chinese Mainland and overseas. It also aims to attract outstanding talent from all over the world through initiatives such as expanding the Belt and Road Scholarship.

Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #EducationHub #University #QS

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DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 June 2026 – As Southeast Asia and the Middle East ramp up investments in autonomous driving and AI-powered transportation, VinFast is positioning itself at the intersection of today’s EV market and tomorrow’s mobility ecosystem.

The future of mobility is being shaped by a common set of trends: electrification, artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

Recent developments in Southeast Asia and the Middle East show how quickly that transition is unfolding. Across both regions, investment is increasingly extending beyond electrification to autonomous driving, AI, and software-centric vehicle platforms. While approaches vary, the goal is becoming increasingly similar: creating vehicles that are not only electric, but also intelligent, connected, and capable of higher levels of autonomy.

In Southeast Asia, VinFast recently announced a three-way collaboration to develop a Level 4 robotaxi platform tailored to the region’s dense traffic conditions and complex urban environments.

At the same time, similar autonomous mobility initiatives are emerging in the Middle East, highlighting a broader shift toward AI-powered transportation and software-defined vehicles.

As momentum builds, attention is moving beyond EV adoption alone toward the integration of intelligent mobility technologies. This shift is creating opportunities for automakers that can combine strong EV foundations with long-term technology development.

One company pursuing both is VinFast, Vietnam’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer and one of the country’s fastest-growing global technology companies. Founded in 2017, it has expanded beyond its home market and now operates across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Its robotaxi initiative reflects a broader ambition to participate in the transition toward software-defined vehicles, where software, connectivity, AI, and over-the-air updates play an increasingly central role in the ownership experience. Through these efforts, VinFast is evolving beyond a conventional automaker into a participant in the next generation of mobility.

Yet even as it invests in future technologies, VinFast continues to demonstrate strong performance as an EV manufacturer.

In May 2026, the company delivered 19,503 electric vehicles in Vietnam, bringing total sales for the first five months of the year to 97,961 units. The achievement marked VinFast’s twentieth consecutive month as Vietnam’s best-selling automotive brand.

That commercial success provides a solid foundation for its technology ambitions. Rather than treating autonomous mobility as a distant objective, VinFast is building on a rapidly growing base of vehicles already on the road.

Another cornerstone of its strategy is aftersales support. Vehicles such as the VF 8 come with a 10-year or 200,000-kilometer vehicle warranty, a 10-year unlimited-kilometer battery warranty, five years of free maintenance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and mobile service support.

In May, VinFast announced agreements with 29 new aftersales partners across international markets, including several in the Middle East. The partnerships will strengthen the company’s service network through standardized technician training, quality-control systems, and an efficient spare-parts supply chain.

This focus on aftersales reflects a reality often overlooked amid discussions about AI and autonomous driving. Long-term success depends not only on technology, but also on customer trust, ownership experience, and dependable support.

That balance between innovation and execution increasingly mirrors the direction of the mobility sector in both Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

As both regions continue investing in electrification, intelligent vehicles, and autonomous transportation, their mobility ambitions are becoming increasingly aligned. VinFast’s recent moves illustrate how a Southeast Asian automaker is helping bridge today’s EV market with the software-defined, autonomous mobility ecosystem of the future.

Hashtag: #VinFast #EV #AutonomousDriving

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Over 70 wellness sessions across six immersive festival zones from sunrise yoga and seafront runs, to strength training, breathwork, creative workshops and recovery experiences, offering something for everyone, across all ages and abilities.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 June 2026 – Glow Festival by Prudential returns to Sentosa this July, ushering in its most expansive and immersive edition to date. From 10-19 July 2026, the highly anticipated event is back and elevated to an entirely new level, bringing together world-class wellness instructors, global music icons Jason Derulo and Alessia Cara, and unforgettable community-driven experiences in a single, immersive celebration of movement, connection and joy.

This year marks a significant new chapter for the festival through a three-year partnership with Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC), Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Prudential Singapore (“Prudential”) and Exceed Sports & Entertainment, the founder of Glow Festival. Together, they share a long-term vision to grow Glow into a defining global wellness event for Singapore, one that invites people of all ages and abilities to engage with wellbeing in ways that feel accessible, social and culturally relevant.

“Glow Festival was created to reimagine how people experience wellness, making it more social, inclusive and culturally relevant,” said Martin Capstick, CEO of Exceed Sports & Entertainment and Founder of Glow Festival. “Our partnerships with Prudential, SDC and STB mark a significant step forward, allowing us to scale the festival. In 2026, this comes to life through an expanded programme, global talent and immersive formats that bring people together in new ways.”

EVERY BODY CLUB BY PRUDENTIAL: MIND, BODY AND FUEL

Returning as Presenting Sponsor for the third consecutive year, Prudential brings back Every Body Club at Glow Festival. Every Body Club is Prudential’s partner ecosystem for health, community and wellness. This year at Glow Festival, Prudential has an experiential space that invites visitors to pick up small steps to improve their wellbeing such as healthy bites and sports accessories. Prudential customers also enjoy exclusive access to physiotherapy and chiropractic consultations.

Toni Fung, Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, Prudential Singapore, said: “We are pleased to be back as the Presenting Sponsor of Glow Festival for the third consecutive year. While health and protection remain a key part of what we do, wellbeing is becoming increasingly important and deeply personal as people live longer lives. Our partner ecosystem presented through Every Body Club offers something for everyone, whether they are starting their wellness journey, staying active and connected as they age, or pursuing fitness goals.”

“Sentosa’s golden beaches and abundant greenery create the perfect environment for immersive wellness and restoration. This strategic partnership brings Glow Festival to life across our island, from the dedicated Festival Grounds at Palawan Green to extended programming with our island hospitality partners. The combination of beachfront locations, coastal breezes, and tranquil spaces helps guests disconnect from daily pressures and reconnect with their wellbeing in ways that feel authentic and restorative. This is the transformative wellness experience we want to offer our guests,” said Michael Ma, Assistant Chief Executive (Business & Digital Technology Group) of Sentosa Development Corporation.

A DAY-TO-NIGHT PROGRAMME ROOTED IN MOVEMENT AND COMMUNITY

Across the festival period, visitors can explore more than 70 wellness sessions spanning sunrise yoga, seafront runs, strength training, breathwork, creative workshops and recovery experiences. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the programme caters to all levels from those beginning their wellness journeys to seasoned practitioners.

At the heart of the daytime lineup is a roster of globally recognised fitness personalities. Joe Wicks, widely known as The Body Coach, brings his signature high energy approach to movement, while Chontel Duncan leads strength focused sessions grounded in performance and empowerment. Completing the lineup is Emi Wong, one of Asia’s most influential digital fitness creators, known for workouts that have resonated with millions around the world.

LIVE MUSIC TAKES OVER AFTER DARK

As the sun sets, Glow shifts into a different rhythm, with live music anchoring the evening programme.

Multi-platinum global superstar Jason Derulo, whose era-defining hits and electrifying stage presence have captivated audiences around the world, will bring his explosive performance style to the Glow stage on Friday 17 July. Headlining Saturday 18 July are acclaimed Korean indie band Hyukoh, whose globally respected musicianship, authenticity and devoted international following, have established them as one of Asia’s most compelling live acts and festival favourites across the world. Closing the festival on Sunday 19 July is Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Alessia Cara, celebrated for her soulful voice, powerful storytelling and chart-topping anthems that have inspired a generation.

Together the line up reflects Glow’s evolving identity, where wellness and culture intersect in a shared, collective experience.

FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE – SIX ZONES ACROSS PALAWAN GREEN

From 17 to 19 July, the Festival Grounds at Palawan Green will feature six immersive zones, anchored by the iconic Cupola Stage, which serves as both the festival’s main stage and its central gathering point. Featuring the signature overhead canopy first introduced in 2019, this expansive 2,000 sqm space will host large-scale group movement sessions led by global fitness personalities by day, and performances by global music acts by night.

Surrounding this are five additional zones, each offering a distinct experience:.

• Flow Studios
  Dedicated movement spaces that will host a diverse lineup of classes throughout the festival, including yoga, pilates, barre, mobility training and functional fitness sessions.

• Mind Oasis
  A calming sanctuary focused on mental wellbeing, featuring guided meditation, breathwork and mindfulness sessions, alongside intimate conversations on topics such as stress management, sleep optimisation and sustainable wellbeing.
• Makers Meadow
  A creative corner offering hands-on workshops and craft experiences that encourage self-expression and mindful engagement.
• Recharge Bay
  A recovery-focused zone with ice baths, guided stretching, muscle recovery treatments and relaxation spaces designed to support post-workout recovery.
• Glow Commons

A curated mix of F&B concepts designed to fuel, refresh and indulge across the day. Highlights include Blue Smoke in collaboration with Bobby Supatra, bringing together a unique one-off menu created exclusively for Glow, alongside local favourites such as Dearborn, KORIO and Acai Collective.

ISLAND-WIDE ACTIVATIONS

Running throughout the festival period from 10 to 19 July, Glow will extend beyond the main Festival Grounds with a curated programme of wellness offerings that will be available across Sentosa’s most iconic hospitality spaces including Raffles Sentosa Singapore, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa, W Singapore Sentosa Cove and Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa.

Lilian Chee, Director of Sports, Singapore Tourism Board, said: “We are excited to partner with Exceed Sports & Entertainment to bring Glow Festival back for its fifth and most ambitious edition. This year’s festival features expanded programmes, bringing together renowned wellness practitioners, innovative products and immersive experiences. This aligns with STB’s Tourism 2040 vision to develop Singapore as a compelling destination, with wellness and quality leisure events identified as key growth opportunities. As wellness tourism continues to grow globally, this homegrown festival showcases Singapore’s wide breadth of wellness activities while delivering meaningful experiences for locals and visitors, strengthening our position as a leading urban wellness destination.”

TICKETING INFORMATION

Tickets for Glow Festival will be available across a range of options designed for individuals, groups and families, including Day Passes ($59–$75) for daytime wellness programming, Evening Passes ($89–$110) for sunset sessions and headline performances, and Weekend Passes ($199–$229) for full access across all festival days at the Palawan Green Festival Grounds, with free entry for children under six and reduced pricing for ages six to twelve. More information and tickets are available at https://glowfestival.sg/.

For media enquiries please get in touch with glowfest@wcommunications.sg.

Hashtag: #GlowFestival

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SINGAPORE- Media OutReach Newswire – 19 June 2026 – For many students considering higher education, choosing an institution is not only about selecting a programme or qualification. Students are also looking for a learning environment where they belong, receive support, build confidence and connect with people who can help with understanding future career pathways.

At SIM Global Education (SIM GE), campus life is designed to complement academic learning by helping students develop networks, soft skills, career awareness and a stronger sense of community. SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse environment aim to equip students with an all-rounded global education, while student life, career development and networking activities help students build competencies needed to thrive in the real world.

This is increasingly important in higher education. UNESCO’s International Institute for Higher Education notes that student wellbeing is critical to academic success and personal development, and that inadequate support can affect learning outcomes, career readiness and students’ ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

Addressing student concerns beyond the classroom
Students exploring higher education often face several practical concerns. They may wonder whether they will make friends, whether they will be supported if they struggle, whether they will have opportunities to develop leadership skills, and whether they can access career guidance before entering the workforce.

SIM GE addresses these concerns through a campus ecosystem that combines student clubs, leadership development, peer support, wellbeing programmes and career services. Through Project 1095, SIM GE highlights that education extends beyond books, exams and qualifications, encompassing knowledge, skills and activities both inside and outside the classroom. This approach supports students who want a fuller higher education experience to grow personally, socially and professionally.

Building networks through clubs and co-curricular activities
Student clubs and co-curricular activities are among the first ways SIM GE students build connections on campus. SIM offers nearly 80 student clubs across areas such as arts and culture, international student clubs, student councils, special interest groups, sports and fitness. These activities allow students to broaden their interests, discover new talents and interact with peers beyond their academic programmes.

For students, these communities can make networking feel more natural. Instead of viewing networking only as a formal career activity, students can begin by working with peers on events, competitions, club projects and leadership initiatives. These experiences help students develop communication, teamwork, confidence and relationship-building skills that are valuable in both campus life and the workplace.

Developing leadership and workplace-ready skills
Leadership opportunities are another important part of the SIM GE student experience. Project 1095 states that SIM aims to prepare every student to be a leader, with opportunities ranging from leadership positions in clubs, to workshops that help students take charge of their learning journey.

These experiences are relevant to students who want to strengthen their employability before graduation. By organising activities, leading teams, managing projects and engaging with different student groups, students can develop confidence and practical skills that support their future careers. Such skills are increasingly valued by employers. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2025 report identifies skills such as analytical thinking, resilience, flexibility, agility, leadership and social influence as important for the future workforce.

Connecting students with career guidance and industry networks
For students seeking more direct career support, SIM Career Connect helps students develop a competitive edge, build industry networks and professional connections, and align their career aspirations with real-world opportunities. This is a key part of helping students transition from academic learning to career readiness. Through career guidance, networking opportunities and employer engagement, students can better understand industry expectations and explore potential career pathways.

SIM’s Employer Engagement team also works with industry partners to connect employers with SIM GE students, supporting employers in finding the right fit from its pool of talent, and provides. For students, this access to industry networks can help reduce uncertainty about life after graduation. It also gives them opportunities to gain exposure to professional environments, employer expectations and potential career directions while still studying.

The role of mentoring in student career development
Mentoring and professional guidance are important because students often need perspective as much as information. Research on employability-oriented higher education programmes has highlighted that higher education has increasingly focused on developing students’ employability competences through mentoring programmes.

Within SIM GE’s broader campus life and career ecosystem, students can connect with peers, student leaders, career advisors, employers and industry opportunities. These touchpoints help students build confidence, ask the right questions, learn from others’ experiences and make more informed decisions about their future.

Helping students make a more confident higher education choice
As students consider their higher education options, many are looking for more than a classroom experience. They want to know whether they will be supported, whether they can build friendships, whether they will have access to career resources, and whether they can connect with people who can help them understand the world of work. At SIM Global Education, student life plays an important role in addressing these concerns. Through clubs, co-curricular activities, student leadership, peer support, wellbeing services, career guidance and employer engagement, SIM GE provides students with opportunities to build meaningful connections and develop future-ready skills.

For students choosing their next step in higher education, these experiences can make a significant difference. They help you move from uncertainty to confidence, from participation to leadership, and from academic learning to stronger career readiness.

Reference

1. SIM Global Education – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/sim-ge
2. New insights on countries’ objectives to support student well-being in higher education – https://www.iesalc.unesco.org/en/articles/new-insights-countries-objectives-support-student-well-being-higher-education
3. Project1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
4. Future of Job Report – https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/
5. SIM Career Service – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
6. Measuring mentoring in employability-oriented higher education programs: scale development and validation – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10170025/
7. Wellness and Counselling – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/student-care

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg