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Hero Esports Co-founder Gavin Zheng Appointed As Dean of the Chengdu Esports Research Institute

CHENGDU, China, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dr. Gavin Zheng, Co-founder of Hero Esports, was invited to deliver an academic lecture titled “Esports Definition and the New Phase of Sports Development” at the Wangjiang Campus of Sichuan University on 10th, September.

Following the lecture, Professor Xiang Yong, Dean of the School of Physical Education at Sichuan University, presented Dr. Gavin Zheng with a letter of appointment as Dean of the Chengdu Esports Research Institute. 

The event was also attended by Ms. Xiong Qian, General Manager of Hero Esports’ Chengdu Branch, and Mr. Dai Xin, Director of the Training Management Center at Hero Esports. 

During the lecture, Dr. Zheng shared insights on the relationship between esports and sports development. From an industry perspective, he emphasized that esports is not only a new growth driver for the sports industry but also a microcosm of future emerging industries. He also elaborated on the relationship between “market existence and representation” in esports, analyzing the root causes behind the underestimation of its commercial value.

He also encouraged young scholars to study the essence of esports from a developmental perspective, thereby contributing to the advancement of China’s esports industry.

The lecture sparked strong interest among the attending faculty and students, leading to an engaging discussion during the Q&A session.

Dr. Zheng’s appointment marks a significant step in strengthening industry-academia collaboration between Hero Esports and higher education institutions in the field of esports. Moving forward, Hero Esports will continue to support the deep integration of academic research and industrial development in esports.


 

Hero Esports Co-founder Gavin Zheng Appointed As Dean of the Chengdu Esports Research Institute

CHENGDU, China, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dr. Gavin Zheng, Co-founder of Hero Esports, was invited to deliver an academic lecture titled “Esports Definition and the New Phase of Sports Development” at the Wangjiang Campus of Sichuan University on 10th, September.

Following the lecture, Professor Xiang Yong, Dean of the School of Physical Education at Sichuan University, presented Dr. Gavin Zheng with a letter of appointment as Dean of the Chengdu Esports Research Institute. 

The event was also attended by Ms. Xiong Qian, General Manager of Hero Esports’ Chengdu Branch, and Mr. Dai Xin, Director of the Training Management Center at Hero Esports. 

During the lecture, Dr. Zheng shared insights on the relationship between esports and sports development. From an industry perspective, he emphasized that esports is not only a new growth driver for the sports industry but also a microcosm of future emerging industries. He also elaborated on the relationship between “market existence and representation” in esports, analyzing the root causes behind the underestimation of its commercial value.

He also encouraged young scholars to study the essence of esports from a developmental perspective, thereby contributing to the advancement of China’s esports industry.

The lecture sparked strong interest among the attending faculty and students, leading to an engaging discussion during the Q&A session.

Dr. Zheng’s appointment marks a significant step in strengthening industry-academia collaboration between Hero Esports and higher education institutions in the field of esports. Moving forward, Hero Esports will continue to support the deep integration of academic research and industrial development in esports.


 

Twice in A Year – Giti tires enable YANGWANG U9X to Set of New Land Speed Record to Become the Fastest Car on the Planet

SINGAPORE, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — It was just slightly more than a month ago that BYD was able to set new EV land speed record equipped with the GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro tires, a tire pattern that was specially designed and developed in collaboration with the YANGWANG team. Back then, the top speed they reached was 472.41km/h at the German Automotive Testing Papenburg (ATP) proving grounds back on August 8, 2025.

GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro - Specially designed to perform at speeds up to 500km/h
GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro – Specially designed to perform at speeds up to 500km/h

But the YANGWANG team believed that there was more to be done and greater heights to be reached. On 14 September 2025, the team once again took to the ATP grounds, equipped with a fresh set of the GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro tires. Setting out to once again push the limits of their car, they hit the track with the intension of breaking records, and that they did!

This time, the YANGWANG U9 Xtreme (U9X) hypercar shattered the production-car top-speed world record, achieving a top speed of 496.22km/h, a 23.81hm/h increase from their test in August.

Driven by German track specialist, Marc Basseng, the full potential of the YANGWANG U9X was released upon the track, the driver and the YANGWANG team were supported by Giti engineers who were on grounds to ensure that the tires were in top shape to perform.

A testament to the consistent quality of Giti tires, the brand new set of GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro tires performed as designed and intended, overcoming the unique challenges posed by electric supercars, taking on its astronomical weight and high horsepower.

The GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro was purpose-built to meet these demands with cutting-edge technology, including:

  • Molecular Chain Optimisation: Reinforced rubber compounds improving tensile and tear strength for stability at extreme speeds.
  • Ultra-High-Strength Aramid Fibres: Novel structural reinforcement materials boosting load-bearing capacity.
  • Next-Gen Racing Profile: Optimized tire geometry for even pressure distribution, reducing heat build-up and energy loss.
  • RaceGrip Pro Formulation: Race-grade fillers that increase grip by 38% and expand the tire’s operating temperature range.
  • Anti-Standing Wave Structure: Prevents deformation at ultra-high speeds, validated in 500 km/h indoor tests.
  • Fast Warm-Up Additives: Reduce tire warm-up time by 60% for quicker priming.
  • Bionic Sidewall Design: Enhances support, improving response speed and cornering ability.

This tire is already certified to CCC/ECE regulations and stands alongside other leading competitors in the street-legal semi-slick arena.

“It is an honour to be here, in person, to witness this great milestone achievement for our valued partner, BYD” commented Andy Ng, General Manager for Original Equipment Manufacturing for Export Markets. “Giti is proud to have partnered with BYD for this project, to have front row seats to the advancement of mobility. We are committed to continuously pushing the boundaries of sustainable performance collaboratively with our partners and in building quality products that allow people to Enjoy Driving.”

YANGWANG U9 Xtreme powered by the GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro Set New World Speed Record to Become the Fastest Car in the World
YANGWANG U9 Xtreme powered by the GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro Set New World Speed Record to Become the Fastest Car in the World

CKGSB Survey Finds China’s Investor Confidence Rebounds as Tech Innovation and Policy Support Drive A-share Rally

BEIJING, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — China’s investor confidence strengthened in Q3 2025, according to the latest Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business (CKGSB) Investor Sentiment Survey (CKISS). The findings show that A-shares rebounded strongly on policy support and advances by Chinese technology firms, though corporate fundamentals and real estate remained weak.

From August 2024 to August 2025, the Shanghai Composite Index rose 35.7% year-on-year, while the Shenzhen Composite Index surged 58.2%. Investor sentiment followed: 63.1% of respondents in September expected A-shares to rise, up 15.6 percentage points from July 2024. The expected rate of return on A-shares reached 1.6%, one percentage point higher than April 2025.

Professor Liu Jing , Professor of Accounting and Finance at CKGSB and author of this survey, found the current round of A-share gains has been driven mainly by valuation expansion rather than by improvements in listed companies’ fundamentals. “The year-long rise in A-shares indicates that at least part of investor confidence has recovered,” said Professor Liu.

Three factors drove the valuation recovery. Policy support included two reserve requirement ratio cuts since late 2024, releasing about RMB 2 trillion, while open market operations injected RMB 1.6 trillion in the first eight months of 2025. Technology breakthroughs fueled A-share sector gains of above 60% year-on-year in semiconductors, automation, and industrial metals. Trade resilience also played a role, as China reduced its reliance on the US, with exports to the US falling to 11.8% by July 2025, down from 19.3% in 2018.

Yet fundamentals remain weak. Non-financial listed companies saw sluggish revenue and profit growth, while real estate prices continued to fall. In September 2025, only 46.3% of respondents expected housing prices to rise, down 6.2 percentage points from the prior edition of the survey. “A sustained bull market requires strong fundamentals. Structural rebalancing from investment to consumption, technological innovation, industrial upgrading, and vigorous private-sector activity are all critical to strengthening fundamentals,” stated Professor Liu.

The survey also reiterates CKGSB’s view on gold. “Seven years ago, we recommended gold as an important investment asset,” noted Professor Liu. “The trend toward a multipolar world has only accelerated, and gold remains ballast in the global financial system.”

The Q3 2025 CKISS signals both optimism and caution: investor confidence is rebounding, but sustainable growth will require deeper structural reforms.

LAPHROAIG® SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY AND WILLEM DAFOE UNITE TO CELEBRATE BOLD SPIRIT

Two of the world’s most iconic characters collaborate in an ‘unphorgettable’ partnership, debuting with a short film reveal

ISLAY, Scotland, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For over 200 years, Laphroaig has been unapologetically doing things differently. Today, continuing this uncompromising spirit, the distinctive Islay single malt has revealed a new partnership with cult actor, Willem Dafoe. The first of its kind in the distillery’s history, the collaboration debuts with a short film titled ‘The Taste’, a global advertising campaign, and tease of a limited-edition whisky, all celebrating those who think differently and embrace a boldness of character.

Willem Dafoe unveils the renamed 'The Barley Dafoe' pub in Mayfair, London, featuring life-sizedbarley men to celebrate his collaboration with Laphroaig single malt whisky.
Willem Dafoe unveils the renamed ‘The Barley Dafoe’ pub in Mayfair, London, featuring life-sizedbarley men to celebrate his collaboration with Laphroaig single malt whisky.

In a sea of sameness, Dafoe and Laphroaig are globally renowned for their distinctive style. Neither have been afraid to stand out or go against the grain. It was only a matter of time before the pair embarked on this newfound friendship – one that continues to bring Laphroaig from its home, on a tiny corner of a Scottish island in the Inner Hebrides, to the world stage.

The partnership marks the latest instalment in the brand’s ‘Unphorgettable’ campaign, which launched in 2024 and celebrates the unmistakable flavour of this iconic whisky, making it ‘unphorgettable’ to all who imbibe. ‘The Taste’ brings to life Dafoe’s search to define Laphroaig’s taste – something he can’t quite put his finger on – revealing a cinematic exploration by Dafoe and a celebration of his inimitable character.

The whimsical film draws inspiration from unusual components in Dafoe’s life and his thirst for immersing himself to get a taste of experiences. The opening scene tells the story of Dafoe remaining inside a wardrobe for two days as a child, to try and experience flying into space after watching astronauts going to the moon. With this individual and curious style, Dafoe seeks the words to describe the uniquely bold single malt, as well as reciting humorous descriptions submitted by some of the whisky’s biggest fans – Friends of Laphroaig.

Laphroaig is no stranger to film. In the 1950s, the world of whisky was male dominated. Laphroaig was one of the only distilleries in the world to be owned and managed by a woman, the fearless First Lady of Scotch, Bessie Williamson. In a remote location with no cinema, access to film was limited so Williamson reimagined the malting floor of the distillery to host after-dark movie screenings, offering local islanders a window into Hollywood.

Continuing the legacy of women in whisky, Senior Whisky Maker for Laphroaig, Sarah Dowling, partnered closely with Dafoe on ‘The Taste.’ She says:

“When we tried to imagine Laphroaig as a human being, we immediately thought of Willem Dafoe. He is the very embodiment of our bold and distinctive spirit. It has been beyond exciting for me and the team to be a part of ‘The Taste’, and to get inside the hidden corners of Willem’s brilliant mind. I wasn’t expecting there to be so many synergies between his approach to craft and character as an actor, to my own as a whisky maker. I can’t wait for the world to see what we have been creating together.”

This partnership will also extend to a limited-edition product collaboration, set for release in 2026. Together with Dowling, Dafoe has developed a new whisky, that is now quietly maturing, steeped in the peat, smoke, salt and the surprising sweetness that infuses all Laphroaig whiskies.

To celebrate the global launch of ‘The Taste’, Laphroaig and Dafoe have partnered with The Barley Mow pub in Mayfair, London, which has been renamed as ‘The Barley Dafoe’ between 22nd and 25th September. Attendees will be the first to sample a new one-of-a-kind cocktail, named Opposite Island and crafted to encapsulate the spirit of this partnership in a glass. This will be available at select bars worldwide over the coming months, allowing drinkers to experience a taste of the ‘unphorgettable’ for themselves.  

Watch the film and behind the scenes content on www.laphroaig.com and follow @laphroaig on Instagram for more information.

Please find the embedded link to ‘The Taste’ film here: https://youtu.be/0rcgoJ3l71M

Notes to Editors:

  • To bring help bring their vision for ‘The Taste’ to life, Willem and Laphroaig enlisted legendary director Tim Pope, famed for some of the most bold and expressive music videos of the last four decades, featuring iconic artists such as David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Neil Young and The Cure.
  • During his 45-year acting tenure, Willem Dafoe has featured in over 150 films.
  • The brand’s global ‘Unphorgettable’ campaign launched in October 2024. It is rooted in the single malt whisky’s bold, distinctive taste and personality, and its promise that every sip of Laphroaig is unforgettable. Once tasted, never forgotten, Laphroaig® has used real drinkers’ own descriptions and created animations of ‘Taste Characters’. From an angel to a donkey, a pack of wolves to swirling waves, the four ‘Taste Characters’ have become the new, bold characterisation of Laphroaig.

Laphroaig encourages responsible drinking. Always follow the DrinkSmart® rules and drink in moderation.

About Laphroaig® Whisky

Laphroaig is the number one selling Islay single malt globally* and is synonymous with this famous whisky island. Established in 1815 by the Johnston brothers, Laphroaig has stayed true to its bold and unforgettable character for over 200 years.

Today, Laphroaig is one of only a handful of distilleries that continues to make whisky using traditional techniques like floor malting barley. From hand turning the barley and burning the peat at low temperatures to flavour the malt with cool smoke to slow distillation to maintain quality, this is what truly makes Laphroaig.  Our single malt whisky embodies the character of Islay in every drop of Laphroaig. From the distinctive peat which gives us our unique smoky character to the steadfast confidence and passion of our people, making Laphroaig unmistakable. The gives us our distinctive taste of Islay, salt and smoke with a surprising sweetness.

Laphroaig’s commitment to bold character has earned us a dedicated following of brand fans, the Friends of Laphroaig.  Launched in 1994, the same year HM King Charles granted the brand a Royal Warrant, this global community has since grown to over 700,000 whisky lovers representing over 170 countries. 

*By volume and value in 2024. Source: IWSR Global Database 2025

For more information visit www.laphroaig.com

Willem Dafoe

Having made over one hundred fifty films in his legendary career, Willem Dafoe is internationally respected for bringing versatility, boldness, and dare to some of the most iconic films of our time. His artistic curiosity in exploring the human condition leads him to projects all over the world, large and small, Hollywood films as well as independent cinema.  

In 1979, he was given a role in Michael’s Cimino’s Heaven’s Gate, from which he was fired. Since then, he has collaborated with directors who represent a virtual encyclopedia of modern cinema: Wes Anderson, Patricia Arquette, Kathryn Bigelow, Kenneth Branagh, Tim Burton, Scott Cooper, Anton Corbijn, Saverio Costanzo, David Cronenberg, Abel Ferrara, Mary Harron, Werner Herzog, Walter Hill, , Miguel Angel Jimenéz, Spike Lee, David Lynch, Hayao Miyazaki, Phillip Noyce, Sam Raimi, Dee Rees, Jason Reitman, Robert Rodriguez, Isaiah Saxon, Julian Schnabel, Paul Schrader, Martin Scorsese, Zack Snyder, Guillermo del Toro, Lars von Trier, James Wan, Wim Wenders, Yorgos Lanthimos, Zhang Yimou, and many more.   

Dafoe has been recognized with four Academy Award nominations:  Best Leading Actor for his role as Vincent van Gogh in At Eternity’s Gate (also a Golden Globe nomination), as well as Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Oliver Stone’s Platoon, E. Elias Merhige’s Shadow Of The Vampire (for which he also received Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations), and Sean Baker’s The Florida Project (also Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations).  He has also been awarded by the New York Film Critics Circle and the National Board of Review, as well as twice by the Los Angeles Film Critics Association.  Dafoe is also the recipient of two Independent Spirit Awards, the Venice Film Festival Volpi Cup and a Berlinale Honorary Golden Bear for Lifetime Achievement.  He recently was awarded the Iris Award for Best Actor from Greece’s Hellenic Film Academy for his role in Vasilis Katsoupis’ Inside.   

He and his wife, director Giada Colagrande, have worked on four films together: Padre, A Woman, Before It Had a Name and the documentary, Bob Wilson’s Life And Death Of Marina Abramovic.    

His natural adventurousness is evident in roles as diverse as Thomas Wake in The Lighthouse;  Marcus, the elite assassin who is mentor to Keanu Reeves in the neo-noir John Wick;  in his voice work as Gil the Moorish Idol in Pixar’s Finding Nemo;  as the notorious filmmaker in Abel Ferrara’s Pasolini;  as Paul Smecker, the obsessed FBI agent in the cult classic The Boondock Saints;  as real life hero Leonhard Seppala, who led the 1925 Alaskan dog sled diphtheria serum run in Togo;  and the notorious duality of Norman Osborn / Green Goblin, a role he reprised in Jon Watts’ record-breaking Spider-Man: No Way Home. That adventurous spirit continues with Kent Jones’ Late Fame; Nadia Latif’s The Man in My Basement; Helmer Gastón Solnicki’s The Souffleur; and Jennifer Peedom’s Tenzing. He will soon film Bárbara Paz’s Cuddle; as well as Robert Eggers’ Werwulf, marking his fourth collaboration with the director, which will be followed with Eggers’ adaptation of A Christmas Carol for Warner Bros. 

Most recently, Dafoe was named the Artistic Director of the theatre department for the Venice Biennale’s 2025 and 2026 seasons.  Dafoe was one of the original members of The Wooster Group, the New York based experimental theatre collective.  He created and performed in all of the group’s work from 1977 thru 2005, both in the U.S. and internationally.  Since then, he has collaborated with Richard Foreman on Idiot Savant at NYC’s Public Theatre, with Robert Wilson on two international productions: The Life & Death of Marina Abramovic and The Old Woman (opposite Mikhail Baryshnikov); Marina Abramovic’s opera 7 Deaths of Maria Callas; and with Romeo Castellucci, on Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Minister’s Black Veil

About Suntory Global Spirits

As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.

For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com and www.drinksmart.com

Photo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/laphroaig_x_willem_dafoe_1.jpg
Photo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/laphroaig_x_willem_dafoe_2.jpg

Willem Dafoe unveils the renamed 'The Barley Dafoe' pub in Mayfair, London, featuring life-sized barley men to celebrate his collaboration with Laphroaig single malt whisky.
Willem Dafoe unveils the renamed ‘The Barley Dafoe’ pub in Mayfair, London, featuring life-sized barley men to celebrate his collaboration with Laphroaig single malt whisky.

Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International) Students Shine at ASEAN-Malaysia Chairmanship 2025


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 September 2025 – Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International) (WMSKLI) proudly celebrates the outstanding performance of its students at the Tribuana Bangsawan Theatre Production, held at the Auditorium Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka in conjunction with the ASEAN-Malaysia Chairmanship 2025 recently.

Students showcasing their talent with an energetic stage performance that captivated the audience
Students showcasing their talent with an energetic stage performance that captivated the audience

A total of 64 talented students from the Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International) Dikir Barat Group, together with the school’s kompang ensemble, captivated the audience with a lively, spirited, and patriotic presentation. Their performance served as a cultural interlude, showcasing Malaysia’s rich heritage to distinguished guests and international delegates.

64 students from Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International) Dikir Barat Group represented the school in a special performance at the ASEAN -Malaysia Chairmanship 2025
64 students from Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International) Dikir Barat Group represented the school in a special performance at the ASEAN -Malaysia Chairmanship 2025

The kompang team welcomed guests with an energetic display, a culmination of three months of dedicated training. The Dikir Barat troupe, performed nine songs including beloved traditional pieces such as Wau Bulan, Karut Perlahan, Karut Laju, Karut Awe, and creative renditions like Upin Ipin and Jong-jong Inai.

The production concluded on a high note with a rousing performance of Tanggal 31, where the students proudly waved the Jalur Gemilang, accompanied by a vibrant fusion of modern music and Dikir Barat rhythms, igniting patriotic pride throughout the hall.

Behind this success was the tireless dedication of students who committed to daily practice sessions during lunch breaks and early Wednesday mornings, with three intensive weeks of rehearsals leading up to the event. Their achievement was made possible with the guidance from the school that provided valuable opportunities and mentorship.

This international platform not only showcased the students’ talent and teamwork, but also enriched their educational journey. Through the Bangsawan production, students gained exposure to the arts, including technical stage management, acting techniques, make-up, and the art of gurindam recitation: skills that complement their academic development, particularly in literature studies.

This remarkable achievement has elevated WMSKLI’s reputation internationally while nurturing students’ appreciation for culture, teamwork, and patriotism.

Hashtag: #WMSKLI #ASEANMalaysiachairmanship #WesleyMethodistSchool



The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International)

Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur (International) (WMSKLI) is a Christian international school offering the globally recognised Cambridge curriculum from Year 7 to Year 11. Grounded in strong Methodist values, WMSKLI is committed to nurturing students in a holistic and disciplined environment that emphasises academic excellence, character development, extra – curricular achievements and community service. The school aims to develop global citizens who lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

Economist Impact’s 5th edition Future of Health Asia returns to Singapore amid rising technological disruption, chronic disease burdens and international trade tensions

Singapore to host 500 health, science and policy leaders on October 16th to address pressing issues in the Asia-Pacific healthcare sector.

Members of the media are invited to register here.

SINGAPORE, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Convening on October 16th at the Four Seasons Hotel, the 5th edition Future of Health Asia will bring together 500 senior leaders from healthcare, government and patient advocacy to examine the impact of rising technological disruptions, rising pressure of chronic diseases and global economic uncertainty. 

5th edition Future of Health Asia
5th edition Future of Health Asia

The Asia-Pacific’s healthcare sector faces mounting pressures. Rapidly ageing populations are driving higher demand for care, while the growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and cancer adds long-term strain. At the same time, technological innovations from AI-enabled diagnostics to connected hospitals are reshaping delivery models, yet adoption is uneven across countries and socioeconomic groups. International trade tensions further complicate access to medicines, supply chains and innovation pathways.

Eric Mansion, pharma general manager, Sanofi South-East Asia and India, who will speak on multidimensional access to healthcare shared, “Breaking healthcare barriers takes more than strategy and collaboration – it starts with patients. Their voices and lived experiences are key to building sustainable health outcomes for all. The insights shared at this event will be instrumental in driving that progress.”

“Climate change is inseparable from human health. Protecting both people and the planet requires innovation, equity, and strong partnerships. I look forward to exploring these solutions together with fellow leaders at the panel,” said Gamze Yuceland, president, growth and emerging markets business unit, Takeda.

Chaired by Charles Ross, head of policy and insights, Asia-Pacific, Economist Impact—the event features Asia-Pacific industry expert speakers including:

  • Colin Lim, chief information officer and chief data officer, Ministry of Health, Singapore
  • Setiaji, senior advisor of health technology to the Minister of Health of Indonesia
  • Chien-Chang Lee, chief information officer, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
  • Arjan Toor, chief executive, health, Prudential plc
  • Gamze Yuceland, president, growth and emerging markets business unit, Takeda
  • Eric Mansion, pharma general manager, Sanofi South-East Asia and India
  • Mahender Nayak, senior vice-president, Takeda, TAS and ISEA
  • Nick Watts, director, NUS Centre for Sustainable Medicine
  • Zhuang Guangyi, deputy director, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
  • And more

“Addressing the urgent and evolving healthcare needs across Asia’s diverse populations and complex disease burdens demands radical collaboration. It is through our shared commitment and partnership that we can accelerate progress in building resilient and equitable care systems throughout the region, leveraging Takeda’s innovative medicines and vaccines to make a meaningful impact,” said Dr Mahender Nayak, senior vice-president of Takeda, Asia Pacific countries.

The curated agenda includes sessions on:

  • Smarter diagnoses, better treatments: the AI-enabled care shift
  • The weight of chronic diseases: advancing integrated care
  • Medtech on the edge: linking innovation with capital
  • Promoting longer, healthy lives
  • Centering patient voices: understanding multidimensional access to healthcare.

View the agenda

The event sponsors are FWD Group, Johnson & Johnson, Lilly, Prudential plc, AstraZeneca, Sanofi and Takeda.

Tickets to the 5th edition Future of Health Asia are available for online purchase – register here. Should you have any questions, please contact: asiaevents@economist.com.

About Economist Impact

Economist Impact empowers businesses, governments and foundations to catalyse change and enable progress. Uniting the expertise The Economist Group is known for under a single brand, Economist Impact brings together policy research and insights, data visualisation, custom storytelling, events and media. Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think tank with the creativity of a media brand, engaging an influential audience in the areas of sustainability, healthcare and new globalisation. Visit www.economistimpact.com for more information.

 

BEYOND Expo Announces XIN Summit — A New China-Focused Tech Summit Launching in Shenzhen on November 15-16, 2025

A Strategic Platform Spotlighting China’s Next-Generation Innovators, Anchored by AI Hardware Ecosystem and Frontier Technologies

SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BEYOND Expo, Asia’s largest innovation and tech ecosystem event, is proud to announce the launch of XIN Summit powered by BEYOND Expo, a new China-focused edition set to debut in Nanshan, Shenzhen on November 15-16, 2025.

BEYOND Expo, Asia’s largest innovation and tech ecosystem event, announced the launch of XIN Summit powered by BEYOND Expo.
BEYOND Expo, Asia’s largest innovation and tech ecosystem event, announced the launch of XIN Summit powered by BEYOND Expo.

This year’s summit centers on the AI Hardware Ecosystem and Frontier Technologies, spotlighting breakthroughs in smart systems, intelligent devices, and advanced infrastructure — reflecting China’s growing leadership in deep-tech innovation and the Greater Bay Area’s unique strength in hardware manufacturing and innovation clusters. In line with global trends and China’s emerging leadership, the theme underscores BEYOND Expo’s commitment to supporting deep-tech innovation and real-world impact.

“With BEYOND Expo marking its fifth anniversary this year, it’s time to go deeper,” said Dr. Lu Gang, Co-founder of BEYOND Expo. “AI hardware represents one of the most critical frontiers where China can lead globally — especially in the Greater Bay Area, which has a complete hardware supply chain and dense innovation clusters. XIN Summit is our way of accelerating that vision by connecting the tech ecosystem.”

Why “XIN”?

The name XIN stands for Xplore, Innovate, Network — the three pillars that define the summit’s vision and impact. In Chinese, “XIN” (新) also means “new”, symbolizing fresh thinking, bold ideas, and the dawn of a new generation of innovation emerging from China — a reflection of the summit’s commitment to uncovering what’s next in Greater Bay Area’s dynamic tech landscape.

Built for China, Connected to the World

Held over two days, XIN Summit will feature a tightly curated conference agenda with keynotes and fireside chats from top global and Chinese leaders, including technologists, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. The event expects to welcome over 5,000 attendees and 150 exhibitors, with a core focus on showcasing emerging startups and breakthrough technologies rooted in the China and GBA’s markets.

In advance of the official opening of XIN Summit, two exclusive, invitation-only events will be held on the afternoon of November 14 — Media Day and Party. Media Day will convene international media, key opinion leaders, and exhibiting companies to generate early visibility and set the agenda for coverage ahead of the summit. The Party will gather industry leaders in an exclusive setting designed to foster high-level networking and substantive dialogue.

During the XIN Summit, attendees will experience targeted investor-startup matchmaking, including curated sessions connecting global funds, corporations, and accelerators with China’s most promising early-stage ventures. The summit will also bring BEYOND Expo’s signature Fund at First Pitch (FAFP) to Shenzhen, offering immersive demos and interactive experiences that have become hallmarks of BEYOND Expo.

True to BEYOND Expo’s DNA, the energy won’t stop at the main stage. From high-impact networking and private roundtables to community socials and interactive activations, XIN Summit will preserve the signature “the fun continues” vibe of BEYOND Expo, blending serious innovation with meaningful connection — and a touch of fun.

“We’re not just creating another tech conference,” said Jason Ho, Co-founder of BEYOND Expo. “We’re building a dynamic launchpad — a place where China, especially the Greater Bay Area’s most promising innovators, can gain visibility, connect with capital, and access opportunities beyond their home market. Few global events offer this level of focus and depth when it comes to China.”

Strengthening China’s Innovation Links

XIN Summit will serve as a premier platform for cross-border collaboration rooted in China, connecting the country’s most promising startups with international partners, investors, and innovation hubs. By leveraging BEYOND Expo’s global network and its deep relationships within China’s tech ecosystem, the summit will foster partnerships that accelerate growth, enable technology exchange, and expand the international footprint of Chinese innovation.

Empowering Local Innovation

XIN Summit will partner with Nanshan District’s local innovation ecosystem, including its renowned startup competition program. This collaboration will see the competition winner featured at the summit, providing a high-profile platform to showcase talent and amplify visibility to national and international stakeholders.

A Platform That’s Already Proven

Over the past five years, BEYOND Expo has established itself as one of Asia’s most influential tech events, with its Macao flagship attracting 25,000 attendees and 800 exhibitors in 2025.

Looking Ahead

XIN Summit will launch in Shenzhen on November 15-16, 2025, followed by the return of BEYOND Expo’s flagship event in Macao from May 27–30, 2026. Together, these two events will reinforce BEYOND Expo’s unique ability to connect markets, scale ideas, and drive innovation across Asia and beyond.

Further details on the venue, speakers, and agenda will be available on the official XIN Summit website: https://www.xinsummit.com/ 

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About BEYOND Expo

The BEYOND International Technology Innovation Expo (BEYOND Expo) is Asia’s leading annual technology event. Serving as a dynamic platform since 2021, BEYOND Expo not only showcases global technological innovations but also provides a unique opportunity to foster innovation upgrades across diverse industries and regions.

BEYOND Expo has attracted participation from Asia’s Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, unicorn companies, and emerging startups. Through a multifaceted approach involving expos, summits, and various activities, BEYOND Expo has successfully cultivated an innovative ecosystem, propelling collective development in the Asia-Pacific region and the global technology innovation industry. www.beyondexpo.com

About XIN Summit

The XIN Summit, powered by BEYOND Expo — Asia’s largest tech and innovation ecosystem event — will debut on November 15–16, 2025, in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District. Derived from “Xplore, Innovate, Network” and the Chinese word for “new” (新), XIN embodies discovery, creativity, and renewal within China’s fast-evolving tech landscape.

What sets XIN Summit apart is its global connectivity. Designed for China but connected to the world, the summit brings together leading entrepreneurs, investors, corporates, and policymakers through curated exhibitions, high-level forums, investor matchmaking, and cross-border collaboration programs. By combining China’s innovation power with international perspectives, XIN Summit aims to accelerate emerging ventures, amplify market opportunities, and foster meaningful partnerships driving the next wave of technological breakthroughs. This year’s summit centers on the AI hardware ecosystem and frontier technologies, showcasing breakthroughs in smart systems, intelligent devices, and advanced infrastructure etc. that signal China’s growing leadership in deep-tech innovation.
www.xinsummit.com