• Tech Week Singapore returns this October with Guest of Honour, Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information
• Registration is now open for Asia’s most transformative tech event, bringing together government officials and senior executives from Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Coca-Cola, AI Singapore and more
• DMEXCO Asia makes its Asia debut, bringing together leading decision makers in the region from the digital marketing and advertising world

SINGAPORE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CloserStill Media, a global producer of market-leading events, has announced the return of Tech Week Singapore 2025, taking place at Sands Expo & Convention Centre on 8–9 October 2025. This year’s edition, themed “Connected Futures, Boundless Impact”, will welcome Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, as the Guest of Honour (GOH).

Building on its reputation as Asia’s most transformative tech event, Tech Week Singapore’s 2024 edition recently clinched Best International Show – Asia-Pacific at the AEO Excellence Awards 2025 and Large Trade Show of the Year at the Singapore MICE Awards 2025. The 2025 event will continue to highlight groundbreaking innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation that are reshaping the future of Asia’s business and society, connecting the region’s government officials and industry decision makers to drive meaningful collaboration across industries.

With AI set to innovate and shape industries, Tech Week Singapore 2025 aims to spotlight the boundless potential of Asia’s digital economy. This year’s headliners include senior executives from AI Singapore, The World Bank Group, Google, OpenAI and more, as well as representatives from the governments of Japan and Canada.

In addition to the return of its flagship co-located shows, including Cloud & AI Infrastructure, DevOps Live, Cyber Security World, Data Centre World, Big Data & AI World and eCommerce Expo Asia, Tech Week Singapore 2025 marks the debut of DMEXCO Asia, bringing DMEXCO – Europe’s leading digital marketing and tech event to Asia. Launched in partnership with Koelnmesse and BVDW, the co-branded eCommerce Expo | DMEXCO Asia event cements Singapore’s position as a dynamic hub for digital business and marketing innovation.

This year’s edition will host over 600 regional and international speakers with special conference theatres to drive conversations between industry professionals. Senior IT leaders are expected to be present, providing attendees with high-impact networking opportunities.

Technology professionals and business leaders are encouraged to register and receive complimentary access to all six co-located shows, contributing to the insightful sessions and dialogues that will steer the future of Asia’s digital future.

The Main Stage line-up includes:

• Michael Conley, CIO & Executive VP, Cleveland Cavaliers, who will speak on Sports Technology
• Sam Cannicott, Director, AI Opportunities, DSIT, UK Government, who will speak on the UK’s government’s AI Action Plan
• Amy Jean Doherty, CIO and VP Information and Technology Solutions, The World Bank Group, who will speak on Navigating the AI-Driven Transformation and Its Challenges
• Laurence Liew, AI Innovation Director, AI Singapore, who will speak on Leveraging AI and Ecosystem Synergy for Sustainable Growth
• Alvaro Garrido, COO, Technology and Operations & CIO, Information Security and Data Standard Chartered, who will participate in a fireside chat on Mastering Cyber Complexity in the Age of Emerging Tech
• Jean-Paul Lalonde, Chief Information and Data Officer, Impact Assessment Agency, Government of Canada, who will speak on Human-centred AI Adoption
• Chikako Masuda, Head of Intelligence Research of Digital Agency, Government of Japan; Head of Principal Researcher of Institute for Administrative Information Systems, who will speak on the Japanese Government’s Organisational Transformation through Community Management and Collaboration
• Dr Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonia who will share how Estonia pioneered e-Government and built a trusted, citizen-centric digital society

In addition to the Tech Week Singapore main stage, each of the six co-located shows will also feature its own keynotes and theatres. 

The Headline Speaker line-up across the six shows includes:

• Vikram Bahl, Principal Architect, AI Infra & HPC, Google Cloud, who will present a session titled on AI Infrastructure: Must-Do’s You Can’t Afford to Miss
• Varun Srivastava, Head of Cyber Security Operations APAC, UBS, who will speak on Creating Trustworthy and Resilient Cybersecurity Strategies in the Age of AI
• Dr. Lorraine Salazar, Senior Knowledge Expert, McKinsey & Company, who will speak on Data, Diversity, and Power: Women Shaping Infrastructure in Asia-Pacific
• Edmas Neo, VP, Group Transformation Office, Mandai Wildlife Group, who will speak on Driving Operational Excellence and Guest Experience through AI and Open Innovation
• Adam Au, General Counsel, Toys”R”Us Asia, who will speak on Securing Data in a Borderless World: Legal Strategies to Protect Your Business and Customers
• Julien Dahmoun, Head of Digital Marketing, StarHub, who will speak on Cross-Channel Synergy: Creating a Seamless Customer Journey

Attendees can participate in activities across all Tech Week Singapore 2025 shows, including workshops by Google Cloud at Big Data & AI World, lectures by ISACA and collecting CPD points at Cyber Security World. Participants can also look forward to Asia’s leading data show– Data Centre World – the world’s largest data centre event that returns bigger and better this year with a 75% increase in space and an expanded line-up of exhibitors. Key highlights from all the co-located events include:

Cloud & AI Infrastructure Asia

• Network with key industry leaders in cloud and AI infrastructure to explore emerging trends and shape the future of enterprise technology.
• Hear from key speakers in leading industries such as Google Cloud and Oracle

DevOps Live

• Learn more about the dynamic DevOps landscape from DevOps & Cloud-native innovators, specialists and decision makers.
• Gain insights from DevOps leaders at Microsoft, Morgan Stanley and AIA Singapore at the DevOps & Platform Engineering Theatre.

Cyber Security World Asia

• Join industry leaders as they discuss emerging cybersecurity trends, strategic digital protection and the technologies shaping the future of Asia Pacific.
• Hear about cybersecurity and AI from organisations such as Visa Worldwide, Shopee and Changi Airport Group

Data Centre World Asia

• Engage with the full data centre ecosystem at Data Centre World Asia, where four dynamic theatres will spotlight the industry’s most critical developments, bringing together thought leaders, innovators and decision-makers from across Asia.
• The Live Data Centre will also feature guided tours and expert demonstrations, giving attendees a rare look into real-time operations and the latest infrastructure innovations.

Big Data & AI World Asia

• Real-world case studies from industry experts will shed light on practical applications, challenges and successes in leveraging AI technologies to drive business impact.
• Learn from key speakers representing diverse sectors, including UOB, Mandai Wildlife Group and GovTech Singapore.

eCommerce Expo Asia

• DMEXCO Asia will gather the most influential voices that are driving digital marketing and marketing innovation across APAC.
• Explore the latest strategies in e-commerce, with insights from leading online retailers and solution providers evolving digital trade in Asia.
• Hear from key speakers from organisations such as Toys”R”Us Asia and Starhub

CloserStill Media’s Managing Director for Asia Pacific, Andy Kiwanuka, said: “Tech Week Singapore continues to serve as a platform to catalyse collaboration across industries, bringing together technology, business, and public sector leaders to accelerate digital growth. With an expanded lineup of industry stakeholders coming on board, we have expanded the conversation to include AI and technology’s role in sectors such as digital marketing and eCommerce, creating even more opportunities for connection and impact.”

Registration is now open. For all technology professionals, secure your complimentary pass at:  https://bit.ly/Registration_MediaAlert

PR Newswire is the official news distribution partner of the Tech Week Singapore 2025.

About CloserStill Media

CloserStill Media specialises in producing high-value, content-driven events that foster professional communities across Business Technologies, Healthcare, and Future Transport and Infrastructure sectors. CloserStill Media’s portfolio includes the acclaimed Tech Week Singapore, featuring popular events such as Cloud & AI Infrastructure and Data Centre World Asia.

Headquartered in London with 10 global offices, CloserStill Media operates with a robust team of 800 professionals across Singapore, the U.K., USA, Germany, and Spain. The company is recognised for its industry leadership, having won more exhibition awards than any other including accolades such as Best Exhibition, Best Event Launch, and Best Brand Expansion. For more information, visit www.closerstillmedia.com.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda, in partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), has launched the ‘A Destination for Every Dream’ campaign to inspire and promote travel within the ASEAN region.

Timed to coincide with ASEAN Day celebrations, the campaign will run until the end of 2025, offering travelers exclusive deals and a curated look into travel experiences that encourage the region’s unique festivals and cultures.

The campaign features Agoda’s festival-focused travel guides, which spotlighting iconic cultural events across ASEAN Member States to encourage deeper exploration, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s rich cultural diversity. Travelers can enjoy discounts of up to 18% on accommodation, as well as savings on Agoda’s flights and activities offerings.

Damien Pfirsch, Chief Commercial Officer at Agoda, shared, “Agoda is proud to partner with ASEAN to celebrate the incredible diversity and culture of the region. ‘A Destination for Every Dream’ is about making it easier and more affordable for travelers to explore the festivals and traditions that make Southeast Asia so special.”

Mr. Oliver Chong, Assistant Chief Executive of International Group (Designate) at the Singapore Tourism Board, as the Chair of ASEAN Tourism Marketing and Partnership Working Group, shared, “This campaign reflects ASEAN’s commitment to showcasing Southeast Asia as a unique and interconnected destination, truly A Destination for Every Dream. By partnering with Agoda and AirAsia, we aim to make it easier for travelers to discover the vibrant festivals, diverse cultures, and authentic experiences that define our region. Together, we are opening doors to unforgettable journeys across our region.”

The campaign not only offers great deals but also provides travelers with comprehensive guides to the most exciting festivals across ASEAN, ensuring a memorable travel experience. Travel deals and curated guides related to the campaign are available online. For more information, visit the following websites:

• Agoda at agoda.com/destinationforeverydream and agoda.com/flytoeverydream
• ASEAN’s official tourism site at visitsoutheastasia.travel

— ENDS —

HONG KONG, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On 6 August 2025, Edgen rolled out Aura 2.0, a redesigned version of its reputation and credibility scoring system that underlies the platform’s collective intelligence. Aura is a non-tradable metric that tracks a user’s insight contributions on the market, predictive accuracy, and viral impact on Twitter. With Aura 2.0, this system now enhances clarity in how scores are earned and how they contribute to shaping Edgen’s AI and community experience.

Ever since the launch of the Edgen’s Beta version, Aura has always aimed to spotlight those delivering quality insights or amplification. Now, Aura 2.0 introduces streamlined mechanics that trace, reward, and record contributions with greater transparency. Every high-signal analysis or widely shared insight becomes a visible marker of credibility, free from unclear logic or guesswork, but rather a clearer picture of value, traced to its source. That score will be visible to all, either on Edgen’s Aura Leaderboard or on X directly, using Edgen’s Browser Extension.

Users gain Aura based on the value they add through thoughtful commentary, market trend observations, and insightful threads or posts that spread. Each action feeds two loops: Recognition to the contributor and training data into Edgen’s growing intelligence layer. Over time, high-Aura profiles surface as trusted, making their future contributions carry more weight and visibility.

“Every community has its own benchmark of trust,” said Sean Tao, the CEO and Co-Founder of Edgen. “Aura 2.0 quantifies that benchmark. It is proof of your credibility in the market and proof that your voice moves others and our AI.”

With Aura 2.0 going live, the rollout will affect everything from feeds and discovery to internal signal training. Contribution will become part of a loop that changes how we view credible sources on social media.

Aura also features a “VIP Bounty” function, incentivizing users to invite high-follower count people from their social circles, thus contributing to the growth of Edgen’s reach while also earning bonus Aura through referral from that influential user.

About Edgen
Edgen is an AI Co-Pilot for investors. It solves market data overload and fragmentation by intelligently routing queries across hundreds of tools and data sources. Edgen integrates AI assistants, real-time social sentiment, and blockchain analytics to automate analyses tailored to individual goals, optimizing portfolios and identifying market entry points with ease.

Backed by leading investors such as Framework Ventures and North Island Ventures, Edgen’s team brings together former Wall Street quantitative traders and core Web3 protocol developers, building the cognitive infrastructure for next-generation open finance.

Website: https://www.edgen.tech/

X/Twitter: https://x.com/EdgenTech

Australian Drummer, Singer, Songwriter and Producer G Flip – Meets Their Wax Double at Madame Tussauds Sydney
Download images and RAW video

SYDNEY, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Double the talent, one epic moment. Today, Australian music sensation G Flip came face-to-face with their wax figure at Madame Tussauds Sydney – and fans were left doing double takes, asking: which one is real? 

The unveiling marked a historic milestone, with G Flip becoming Australia’s first non-binary celebrity to be immortalised in wax – a moment as powerful as it was personal. Seated on a Yamaha bass drum, surrounded by their signature Absolute Hybrid Maple drum kit, the figure captures G Flip’s explosive stage presence, unmistakable swagger, and authentic spirit that continues to strike a chord worldwide. 

G Flip said: “Wow, this is extremely wild. Very stoked to be made of wax and be the first non-binary wax figure in Australia. It’s an honour to be included among so many legends. I hope everyone enjoys whacking some drums with the wax version of me, apologies for the noise in advance.”

Crafted over ten months by Madame Tussauds’ expert team, the wax figure involved over 100 measurements, 300 reference photos and 170 hours of intricate sculpting. From custom drumsticks to hand-inserted hair strands, no detail was overlooked in bringing the artist’s likeness to life.

“G Flip has revolutionised the Australian music scene with their raw talent and fearless authenticity,” said, Chris Harvey, Head of Operations at Madame Tussauds Sydney. “But beyond the music, they’ve become a beacon of inclusivity and self-expression. This figure celebrates both their artistry and their impact – and we’re proud to welcome them to our Sydney Live! zone.” 

As a breakout star with global reach, G Flip continues to defy convention and redefine what it means to be a modern music icon. From sold-out international tours to viral online moments, their influence spans far beyond Australia – resonating with fans of all ages, backgrounds and identities. 

Now on permanent display, G Flip’s wax twin takes centre stage in Sydney Live! joining an all-star lineup of musical legends including Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Dua Lipa, Kylie Minogue and Troye Sivan. G’s interactive experience invites guests to step into the spotlight – grab a pair of drumsticks, take a seat at a Yamaha drum kit for an immersive, hands-on drumming moment and capture the perfect snap!

The figure also stands as a proud symbol of representation and visibility, celebrating LGBTQ+ Australians and reinforcing Madame Tussauds’ commitment to showcasing diverse icons who inspire and lead with authenticity. 

The unveiling of wax G marks the beginning another landmark 12 months for G Flip, as they gear up to drop their highly anticipated new album, Dream Ride, this September and make a triumphant return to their homeland for a massive Australian tour in 2026.

G Flip’s wax figure is now on display at Madame Tussauds Sydney – for more information and to book tickets, visit: madametussauds.com/Sydney 

Notes to editors 

Video:

• RAW vision of G Flip seeing their wax figure for the first time, with time codes:
  • Reveal – 00:15
  • Interview – 01:35 – 03:15

MANILA, Philippines, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Philippine government has partnered with the country’s leading e-wallet in line with its agenda to modernize the local transportation sector with world-class payment solutions.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), the country’s central bank, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and leading local fintech giant GCash have launched world-class cashless solutions in Metro Manila’s main rail line, the Metro Rail Transit System Line 3 (MRT-3).

This initiative positions the Philippines in the same category as its Southeast Asian neighbors, such as Singapore, which have implemented open-loop ticketing systems, which reduces friction for commuters, allowing them to use various cashless modes of payment.

The newly launched Automated Fare Collection System enables faster, easier journeys for MRT-3 passengers via a tap-in and tap-out method through multiple modes of payment: QR, mobile NFC, and debit/credit cards.

“This is just the beginning. We’re working on this to make all turnstile carousels [equipped] with this option for various payment modes,” said Transport Secretary Vince Dizon, adding the digital payment solutions will soon be available in other rail lines — the Light Rail Transit Lines 1 and 2, and other mass transport systems.

“One of our core mandates is to make payments safer, secure, efficient, reliable, and more accessible to all. Today, those two goals come together,” said Walter Wassmer, member of the central bank’s Monetary Board.

To help ensure the success of this initiative, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said they have been working to enhance internet connectivity at MRT-3, allowing commuters to access the GCash app whenever.

“We’re so proud and excited to finally launch this service in partnership with the government,” said Martha Sazon, President & CEO of Mynt, the holding company of GCash. “Before, people would line up as early as 4:30 am just to buy a ticket. I hope that with this project, we can help them make their commute faster and more convenient.”

About GCash

GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. Its mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only $5 billion unicorn in the Philippines.

GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

BEIJING, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As international sustainability disclosure standards accelerate their global rollout, photovoltaic (PV) companies tend to face challenges such as mismatched metrics and fragmented internal governance when aligning with these frameworks. In response, JA Solar is deepening collaboration with the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). The aim is to develop JA Solar’s own industry-specific implementation based on the ISSB standards, providing an exemplary model for the PV industry to integrate international frameworks.

This commitment manifests through proactive governance reforms and international advocacy. In May, ISSB Vice-Chair Jingdong Hua and Special Advisor to ISSB Chair & Director of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation Beijing office Zhengwei Zhang visited JA Solar. The company’s board members and senior executives participated in intensive workshops, focusing on critical topics such as addressing global regulatory demands and quantifying climate-related financial impacts. This drives the deep integration of international standards into JA Solar’s corporate governance. In June, JA Solar, as the sole private enterprise representative to share its methodology for sustainability disclosures, joined global experts at the Beijing International Sustainability Conference, with over 13 million online views.

As early adopters of the standards, JA Solar deepens climate analysis based on the recommendations of the TaskForce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) frameworks and the IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures issued by the ISSB. The company also integrated its supply chain into decarbonization initiatives, empowering upstream suppliers, and released the industry’s first report of Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), pioneering biodiversity transparency. Through this “standards framework + industry characteristics” approach, JA Solar has demonstrated the feasibility of full ISSB compliance for PV enterprises. Looking ahead, JA Solar will further collaborate with ISSB to refine disclosure methodologies, helping more PV companies integrate deeply with global frameworks.

Established by IFRS Foundation during COP26 in 2021, ISSB aims to create a high-quality, comprehensive global baseline of sustainability disclosures to enhance ESG transparency. Its IFRS S1 (General Requirements) and IFRS S2 (Climate-related Disclosures) have been adopted by over 120 countries, serving as the “global language” for corporate sustainability reporting.

TOKYO, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Deputy Premier of Sarawak, The Honourable Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah bin Ali Hasan, today outlined Sarawak’s strategic vision to accelerate its Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 (SDE 2030), while inviting cooperation with NEC Corporation to drive digital transformation and sustainable growth, particularly in areas of digital government, aviation and cyber security.

Speaking at NEC Super Tower, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah highlighted Sarawak’s commitment to becoming an economy which is based on renewable resource-based, environmentally sustainable and technology-driven.

“Our vision is to build a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-led economy, supported by clean energy, advanced digital infrastructure, and high-skilled talent,” he said. “Partnerships with global technology leaders such as NEC can facilitate us in achieving these goals, bringing benefits to both investors and the local community through job creation, technology transfer, and economic spin-offs.”

Datuk Amar Awang Tengah emphasised that public-private partnerships and targeted investments in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, integrated circuit design, and digital services are key to delivering on Sarawak’s development strategies.

“Our journey towards a developed and sustainable Sarawak by 2030 is a shared opportunity,” he concluded. “With NEC’s expertise and our vision, we can create lasting value for investors, communities, and the environment.”

Deputy Premier invited NEC Corporation to explore strategic digital and sustainable investments in Sarawak, noting that the State offers competitive electricity and water tariffs, attractive tax incentives, a skilled workforce, and a business-friendly environment.

In attendance:

NEC