Home Blog Page 441

Matrix Robotics Debuts at Dalian Summer Davos as Sole Humanoid Robotics Service Provider, with MATRIX-3 Serving Global Attendees as an AI Barista

By
Advertorial Desk
-
DALIAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – The World Economic Forum’s 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as Summer Davos, opened on June 23 at the Dalian International Conference Center. Held under the theme “Innovating at Scale,” the forum brought together more than 1,700 leaders from government, business and technology across over 90 countries to discuss how innovation can be translated into real-world applications and industrial transformation. Matrix Robotics, a China-based company specializing in Physical AI and embodied intelligence, participated in the forum as its sole humanoid robotics service provider. The company’s integrated technology stack combines its independently developed WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model, a general-purpose full-body motion control system and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands. Its third-generation humanoid platform, MATRIX-3, was deployed in the venue’s first-floor dining area, where it served attendees as an AI barista throughout the forum. Leveraging the model’s general-purpose capabilities, cross-scenario adaptability and long-horizon task generalization, Matrix Robotics demonstrated the system’s readiness for real-world commercial service applications to attendees from around the world.

WAVE Powers a Live Service Demonstration at a Leading Global Forum

This year’s Summer Davos focused on “Innovating at Scale,” with artificial intelligence and the application of emerging technologies in the real economy among the forum’s key topics. A key question for the industry is how embodied intelligence can move beyond laboratory demonstrations and achieve commercial deployment at scale.

Moving beyond conventional static hardware displays, Matrix Robotics created a live demonstration area in the venue’s first-floor dining zone. The service solution is built around the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model and a general-purpose full-body motion control system. Combining cross-scenario generalization, stable execution of long-horizon tasks and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands, the system provided live coffee service to international attendees and demonstrated its ability to operate in a real-world service environment.

The WAVE model handles perception, reasoning and high-level motion planning, while the full-body motion control system coordinates the robot’s physical movements. Long-term testing across multiple scenarios has demonstrated stable performance, enabling the system to support frequent and continuous service at the venue. MATRIX-3 serves as the physical platform through which the intelligent system performs real-world tasks.

Generalization Enables Autonomous Coffee Service, While Dexterous Hands Demonstrate Precise Manipulation

In the dedicated demonstration area, the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model coordinates the workflow together with the full-body motion control system and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands, enabling MATRIX-3 to perform a standardized coffee-service process. Using the model’s multimodal visual perception, the robot independently identifies and picks up an empty coffee cup, calculates the force required to press the coffee machine’s controls, lifts the hot beverage after brewing, plans a route to the guest and delivers the finished drink steadily.

The WAVE model incorporates physical force-control reasoning, allowing the system to adjust the dexterous hands’ grip strength in real time and reduce the risk of cups slipping or hot beverages spilling. The continuous, multi-step workflow—from picking up a cup to delivering a hot beverage—demonstrated the WAVE model’s multitask processing and generalization across different movements, highlighting the role of the underlying AI system in complex physical interactions.

WAVE Supports Replicable Solutions for Commercial Service Applications

As the forum’s sole humanoid robotics service provider, Matrix Robotics used live coffee service to demonstrate its approach to a key industry challenge: many humanoid robots emphasize hardware demonstrations, while limitations in model generalization make rapid deployment across multiple scenarios difficult.

Matrix Robotics has focused on deploying robotic systems in standardized, repetitive service environments, with its core technology centered on the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model and general-purpose full-body motion control system. With multitask adaptability and cross-scenario transfer capabilities, the system demonstrates its potential for deployment at international forums, exhibition venues, retail stores, cultural and tourism spaces and other service environments, offering a replicable solution for the digital transformation of the global service industry.

International Attendees Experience China-Developed AI Technology Firsthand

Throughout the forum, entrepreneurs, technology professionals and Chinese and international media visited the dining-area demonstration to experience the autonomous coffee service powered by the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model and performed by MATRIX-3’s dexterous hands. Attendees received coffee prepared by the robot and observed the system’s stable and fluid operation firsthand.

A senior executive of Matrix Robotics said that Summer Davos provides a leading global platform for showcasing China’s AI innovation. The live coffee-service demonstration provides a direct example of the company’s commercialization strategy centered on the WAVE model. Matrix Robotics independently develops the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model, the general-purpose full-body motion control system and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands. The company continues to improve multitask generalization, safe human-robot interaction and extended continuous operation, with the goal of moving Physical AI from concept demonstrations toward commercial deployment at scale.

Expanding Applications and Accelerating Embodied AI Deployment at Scale

As the global embodied AI industry enters a period of rapid development, general-purpose AI model capabilities and commercialization across different scenarios are becoming key areas of competition. The forum’s theme, “Innovating at Scale,” closely aligns with Matrix Robotics’ long-term development strategy centered on the WAVE model.

Combining the WAVE model’s general-purpose and long-horizon task capabilities with high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands, the integrated system can support applications beyond coffee service, including exhibition reception, material handling and precision object manipulation, creating broad potential for deployment across industries.

By participating in Summer Davos in Dalian, Matrix Robotics demonstrated the real-world operating capabilities of its independently developed intelligent system and created a platform for international industry exchange and cooperation. Going forward, Matrix Robotics will continue to advance the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model, the general-purpose full-body motion control system and general Physical AI algorithms, while expanding applications across retail, cultural tourism, exhibitions and industrial support. With foundation-model technology at the core of its strategy, the company will work with global industry partners to accelerate the large-scale deployment of embodied AI and bring China-developed Physical AI technology to a broader global audience.

Hashtag: #MatrixRobotics

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

The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation Acquire Profisol Industrial Automation

By
Advertorial Desk
-

MELBOURNE, Australia, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation have acquired Profisol Industrial Automation, strengthening the group’s industrial automation and operational technology capabilities and expanding support for customers across Australia.

The acquisition brings together complementary expertise in automation, control systems, monitoring, and critical infrastructure. By combining Profisol’s specialist knowledge with the engineering resources of The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation, customers will benefit from broader technical expertise and increased project delivery capacity.

For more than 20 years, Profisol has delivered automation, monitoring, and alarming solutions for process, infrastructure, and utility systems. The company has established a strong reputation for practical engineering, reliable project delivery, and long-term customer partnerships across critical industries.

“Profisol has built an outstanding reputation for delivering high-quality automation solutions and exceptional customer service,” said Michael Dowling, Director of Technology at The Oberix Group.

“Their technical expertise, industry knowledge, and strong customer relationships make them a natural fit for our group. This acquisition strengthens our ability to deliver automation and operational technology solutions across Australia while giving customers access to a broader range of specialist skills.”

Bela Farbas Snr, Director at Profisol Industrial Automation, said the acquisition creates opportunities for customers and employees.

“We are proud of the business we have built over two decades and the relationships we have established with our customers. Joining The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation provides additional resources and opportunities while allowing us to deliver the service and technical excellence our customers expect.”

Profisol will continue operating with its existing team, maintaining the trusted relationships and service standards customers rely on.

Together, the businesses provide automation and control solutions across process control systems, SCADA and monitoring platforms, alarming systems, industrial communications, operational technology, and ongoing support services.

The acquisition reflects The Oberix Group’s ongoing investment in specialist engineering and technology businesses that support Australian industry and critical infrastructure.

About The Oberix Group

The Oberix Group is an Australian technology and engineering services organisation delivering solutions across industrial automation, operational technology, digital transformation, smart buildings, and critical infrastructure sectors.

About Leading Edge Automation

Leading Edge Automation delivers automation and control system solutions that help organisations improve operational efficiency, reliability, and performance.

About Profisol Industrial Automation

Profisol Industrial Automation specialises in automation, monitoring, and alarming solutions for process, infrastructure, and utility systems.

 

Cynosure Lutronic Spotlighted Structural Skin Tightening Innovation at IMCAS Asia 2026 in Bangkok

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SINGAPORE, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global medical aesthetics leader Cynosure Lutronic presented its latest non-invasive innovations at IMCAS Asia 2026 in Bangkok (19–21 June), featuring XERF™, a structural skin tightening treatment that focuses on comfort, safety, flexibility and no downtime. XERF reflects a shift in how skin ageing is addressed, moving beyond surface-level improvements to support firmness and skin quality from within.

Hauke Harms, President of International, Cynosure Lutronic at IMCAS Asia 2026
Hauke Harms, President of International, Cynosure Lutronic at IMCAS Asia 2026

The Shift Shaping Modern Aesthetics

Consumers are moving away from dramatic, overdone outcomes towards earlier, more preventive approaches focused on natural-looking results, long-term skin health and preservation.

Driving this is a broader cultural shift. Mintel’s 2026 Global Beauty and Personal Care Predictions identify a growing consumer exhaustion with AI-driven perfection, with consumers increasingly craving authenticity and human expression over polished, data-driven conformity. Similarly, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) reports that non-invasive treatments now account for 80% of all procedures among its members, with patients prioritising subtle, natural-looking results.

XERF is designed to align with these evolving expectations, delivering structural skin tightening from within while offering the comfort, convenience and results modern patients seek.

Close-up of Cynosure Lutronic XERF brochure at IMCAS Asia 2026
Close-up of Cynosure Lutronic XERF brochure at IMCAS Asia 2026

A Structural Approach to Skin Tightening

XERF is the world’s first monopolar radiofrequency (RF) device that combines two frequencies (6.78 MHz & 2MHz) to deliver targeted thermal energy to the skin at three depths. This multi-layer approach allows XERF to act across the skin’s shallow, middle and deeper layers, helping to remodel the structure of tissue and restore firmness, where meaningful change begins.

This multi-layer approach enables XERF to deliver visible lifting and tightening, improvement in facial and neck laxity, a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while supporting comprehensive improvement in skin firmness and quality.

Cynosure Lutronic's XERF technology on display at IMCAS Asia 2026
Cynosure Lutronic’s XERF technology on display at IMCAS Asia 2026

Working at a structural level, XERF delivers both immediate and progressive results. Patients typically experience a noticeable tightening sensation right after treatment and continued improvement as collagen remodelling occurs over time, enhancing skin appearance in the weeks that follow.

Designed for Comfort and Everyday Life

XERF has been engineered to make advanced aesthetic treatments more accessible and convenient. The treatment feels warm and comfortable due to Integrated Cryogen Delivery (ICD) that cools the skin’s surface during each pulse, and Wave Fit™ pulse technology, which balances energy delivery to maximise comfort.

Each session takes approximately 45 minutes, requires no needles or numbing, and allows patients to resume daily activities immediately, providing patients with a treatment rooted in comfort and convenience that fits modern lifestyles.

Tailored to Individual Skin Needs

Recognising that every patient’s skin is different, XERF features adjustable depth settings and intensity levels that can be tailored to each individual’s skin profile. This customisability allows doctors to address both early and more visible signs of ageing, to customise treatments based on skin thickness and treatment goals, and deliver personalised outcomes across different facial areas.

“IMCAS Asia is an important platform for us to connect with leading practitioners across the region and share the latest developments in aesthetic technology,” said Hauke Albert Harms, President of International at Cynosure Lutronic. “With XERF, we are seeing a clear shift toward treatments that go beyond surface-level improvements, supporting skin structure and quality from within. Patients today are looking for solutions that deliver visible results while fitting seamlessly into their daily lives, and this is where innovation is heading.”

About Cynosure Lutronic

Cynosure Lutronic is a global leader in medical aesthetic and energy-based device technology, delivering clinically proven solutions for aesthetic practitioners and patients across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

The XERF™ RF system is intended as a non-invasive dermatological aesthetic treatment device with indications for wrinkles and rhytids. Product availability, approved indications, and regulatory clearances may vary by country or region. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if XERF™ is right for them. Cynosure Lutronic does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, prescribe treatment protocols, or provide medical advice.

Website: bluetotem.co

High-res images and brand assets are available for download here.
(All photos should be credited to: Cynosure Lutronic)

Allianz: $125 billion in vessel and cargo value awaits passage from the Persian Gulf

By
Advertorial Desk
-

  • Safety and Shipping Review 2026: Vessel and cargo value in region shows importance of maritime chokepoints. Managing geopolitical disruptions is now a top priority for shipowners and cargo operators.
  • Geopolitical tensions challenge shipping’s ongoing long-term safety improvements. Incidents fell 16% to fewer than 3,000 globally in 2025, while fire remains a major loss driver with over 200 incidents, the second highest total in a decade.
  • More complex and volatile risk landscape enforces need for greater operational resilience versus cost efficiency.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Given that 90% of international trade is transported across oceans, maritime safety and stable shipping trading routes are critical. According to Allianz Commercial’s latest Safety and Shipping Review, incidents like the closure and reported mining of the Strait of Hormuz are the latest in a series of recent disruptions to have impacted shipping. They signal a transition toward a “new maritime order” defined by escalating security risks along strategic shipping corridors, the disruption of established trade routes, persistent uncertainty, higher risk premiums, and a greater strategic emphasis on resilience over pure cost efficiency.

In addition to geopolitical uncertainty, traditional risks for the shipping industry remain a major concern, although the numbers of total vessel losses and incidents have continued to decline in recent years. Machinery damage or failure and fires are among the main loss drivers in this regard, leading to significant economic and insured losses.

“Our analysis shows the shipping industry has made significant improvements in maritime safety in recent years. However, it has also undergone a fundamental transformation, from decades of relative stability, defined by steady trade flows and largely predictable operating conditions to becoming increasingly complex and volatile. The Middle East conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure is just the latest in a series of severe interruptions to hit shipowners and cargo operators. Resilience, geopolitics, and efficiency must be balanced in an increasingly unpredictable world, where the cost of uncertainty is reshaping the shipping industry,” explains Thomas Lillelund, CEO of Allianz Commercial.

Geopolitical uncertainty becomes top risk for shipping industry
The conflict in the Middle East paralyzed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil trade route. Allianz Research data shows that around 1,150 cargo-carrying vessels (over 100GT*) with an estimated vessel and cargo value of approximately $125 billion, a volume of 29 million GT, and as many as 20,000 seafarers are in the Persian Gulf waiting to resume operations following recent diplomatic breakthroughs. This underscores the structural importance of maritime chokepoints and how critical they are for shipping and international trade, while also highlighting the severe disruptions to vessel operations and mental strain that has been placed on those seafarers who have endured months on board facing the threat of attack.

Marine insurance cover has been available throughout the conflict, albeit at increased hull and cargo premiums. However, the real issue for shipowners has been more about the risk to the crew and the vessel when transiting a conflict zone, rather than pure insurance considerations. Even if the US and Iran agreement holds and the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, solid assurances of safe passage will be required, involving the international community, particularly if traffic is to return to its pre-war levels, up to as many as 140 vessels a day.

“We are seeing growing uncertainty around shipping routes. Any type of event – a conflict, pandemic or a grounded vessel blocking a key port or shipping canal – can potentially cause a major disruption to shipping and supply chains. The events in the Middle East have been more impactful than many would have expected. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz sets a dangerous precedent and raises questions around the long-term future of this and other critical chokepoints. What is becoming clear is that we have to pay a price for uncertainty, shifting from ‘just-in-time’ to ‘just-in-case’ supply chains, and prioritizing resilience over cost efficiency,” says Captain Rahul Khanna, Global Head of Marine Risk Consulting at Allianz Commercial.

Total loss and incident numbers decline despite industry headwinds
The review’s latest analysis shows that there have been more than 900 total losses reported over the past decade (vessels over 100GT). Between 2016 and the end of 2020, there were 555, an average of 111 per year. This number declined to 350 between 2021 and the end of 2025, an average of 70 (37% down on the previous five-year period), reflecting the positive effect of an increased focus on safety measures over time – 43 total losses have been reported in 2025, with more than 30 of these vessels over 500GT. The South China, Indochina, Indonesia, and the Philippines region is the main loss hotspot globally over the past year, and the past decade (255). A huge volume of imports and exports flow through the region, resulting in high levels of shipping traffic, which is reflected in the number of incidents.

Around the world, the number of shipping incidents declined over the past year by around 16% (2,818 in 2025 compared to 3,353 in 2024). The East Mediterranean and Black Sea region saw the highest number (622), followed by the British Isles (619), which is also the location of the most incidents over the past decade. Machinery damage or failure was the major cause of shipping incidents globally, accounting for over half (1,505), followed by vessel collision (260). Fires on large vessels, including container ships and car carriers, remain a worry. There were more than 200 incidents on large vessels reported during 2025, down from 2024, but still the second highest total over the past decade, with at least nine total losses reported.

The increasing size of vessels is also driving a trend for a rise in general average claims, where the shipowner and cargo interests share losses or expenditure to save the whole venture in an emergency. Such claims are typically complex and large. Contributions to cover losses can be as high as 50% of the cargo value, which if a vessel is carrying a few thousand electric cars, for example, could easily be over US$100mn.

“Insurance markets react quickly to crises, but the real challenge for companies is understanding how risks are interconnected. That’s why resilience and risk management are becoming just as important as insurance coverage. The shipping industry is facing turbulent times, not only from geopolitical instability, but also from traditional hull and machinery risks, where we see claims costs continue to rise, as well as from decarbonization and fleet renewal challenges. Our role as an insurer is to support our clients as both a risk carrier and a resilience partner to mitigate risks before they become a damaging loss event,” says Justus Heinrich, Global Product Leader Marine Hull at Allianz Commercial.

Geopolitics and high demand drive trend for older vessels
The average age of the global fleet increased to 23 years in 2025, up from around 20 years old just before the Covid-19 pandemic, as shipowners retain vessels for longer due to the volatile geopolitical climate. Conflict in the Middle East has seen tankers and container ships stranded and rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, for example, resulting in longer transit times and a squeeze on existing fleet capacity.

Older vessels pose significant safety risks at sea, with vessels over 20 years old accounting for over half of all safety incidents, analysis shows. As ships age, the likelihood of incidents increases due to structural, mechanical, and technological obsolescence, creating risks for crew, cargo, and the environment.

“Shipowners are under pressure to scrap older vessels and replace them with new, more efficient, safer and compliant ships. However, the recent pushback against net zero targets and full order books at the major Asian shipyards are other factors which could ensure the average age of vessels is likely to remain elevated in the near term,” says Captain Nitin Chopra, Senior Marine Risk Consultant, Allianz Commercial.

Hashtag: #Allianz

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

About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, , and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us in providing a wide range of traditional and risk transfer solutions, outstanding and services as well as seamless handling. Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2025, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated around €17.3 billion in gross premium globally.

Fujitsu Receives Frost & Sullivan’s 2026 Asia-Pacific Enabling Technology Leadership Recognition for Advancing Quantum-Inspired Computing Innovation

By
Advertorial Desk
-

The digital transformation leader is recognized for its innovation, hybrid computing strategy, and scalable quantum-inspired computing solutions to solve complex enterprise optimization challenges.

SAN ANTONIO, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan has awarded global digital transformation leader Fujitsu the 2026 Asia-Pacific Enabling Technology Leadership Recognition, acknowledging its outstanding achievements in the quantum-inspired computing industry. This recognition highlights Fujitsu’s consistent leadership in advancing quantum-inspired computing, strengthening its market position, and delivering customer-centric innovation in a rapidly evolving advanced computing landscape.

Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: strategy effectiveness and strategy execution. Fujitsu excelled in both, demonstrating its ability to align advanced computing strategies with enterprise demand while executing them with efficiency, consistency, and scale. “Fujitsu’s approach reflects a deep understanding of technology maturity, cost considerations, and adoption patterns in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling enterprises to evaluate and integrate advanced optimization methods within realistic operational conditions,” said Kenny Yeo, Director – ICT at Frost & Sullivan

Guided by a long-term growth strategy focused on hybrid computing, ecosystem development, and continuous innovation, Fujitsu has shown its ability to adapt and lead in a rapidly evolving landscape. The company’s strategic agility and sustained investment in quantum-inspired and quantum computing technologies have enabled it to scale effectively across diverse markets in the Asia-Pacific region.

Innovation remains central to Fujitsu’s approach. Its quantum-inspired computing solutions, led by the Digital Annealer, address the growing need for high-performance optimization across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, financial services, and energy. By enabling enterprises to process high-dimensional datasets and solve complex combinatorial problems without requiring specialized quantum hardware, Fujitsu delivers scalability, flexibility, and performance within existing infrastructure environments.

Peter Grassi, Chief Executive Officer at Fujitsu in Oceania said: “This recognition reflects Fujitsu’s focus on turning advanced computing into real business outcomes. In financial services, quantum‑inspired optimisation enables institutions to rebalance portfolios at unprecedented speed – running hundreds of scenarios in the time it once took to complete a single analysis – supporting faster, better-informed decisions in increasingly volatile markets. In life sciences, the same technology is accelerating drug discovery by exploring vast chemical spaces and identifying viable candidates in a fraction of the time, helping bring new therapies to patients sooner. As we continue to expand across the region, Fujitsu is focused on helping organisations apply these capabilities today, solving complex optimisation challenges now while building a foundation for a more data-driven future.” 

Fujitsu’s unwavering commitment to customer experience further strengthens its position in the market. Through a structured engagement model that includes workshops, trial access, and proof-of-concept initiatives, the company enables organizations to explore, validate, and deploy quantum-inspired computing solutions with reduced risk. Its ability to integrate advanced optimization into existing systems, combined with localized support and a strong partner ecosystem, allows Fujitsu to deliver long-term value across a wide range of industries and use cases.

Frost & Sullivan commends Fujitsu for setting a high standard in competitive strategy, execution, and market responsiveness. The company’s vision, innovation pipeline, and customer-first approach are shaping the future of quantum-inspired computing and driving measurable outcomes at scale.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the Enabling Technology Leadership Recognition to a company that demonstrates outstanding development and implementation, resulting in measurable improvements in technological advancement, customer adoption, and competitive positioning. The recognition highlights forward-thinking organizations that are transforming their industries through innovation and sustained growth excellence.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Recognition
Frost & Sullivan’s Best Practices Recognitions honor companies across regional and global markets that exhibit exceptional achievement and consistent excellence in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer experience, and strategic product development. Each recognition is the result of a rigorous analytical process in which Frost & Sullivan industry experts benchmark performance through comprehensive interviews, deep-dive analysis, and extensive secondary research. The goal is to identify true best-in-class organizations that are driving transformative growth and setting new industry standards.
Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:
Tarini Singh
 Tarini.Singh@frost.com

About Fujitsu         
Fujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers around the globe, our 100,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: AI, Computing, Networks, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.5 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended 31 March 2026 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: https://global.fujitsu/en-global.

 

Bolikhamxay Official Denies Illegal Gold Mining Allegations at Lak 20

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
-
Bolikhamxay authorities deny reports of illegal gold mining at LAK20 (KM20), calling the claims false and accusing the original unofficial source of spreading outdated footage to undermine public trust. Deputy Head of the Bolikhamxay Provincial Public Security, Khampheng Namphavanh.

Bolikhamxay provincial authorities have denied social media reports of placer gold mining, saying the claims are inaccurate and based on misleading information.

On 23 June, Deputy Head of the Bolikhamxay Provincial Public Security, Khampheng Namphavanh, said the allegations centered on Lak 20 village in Khamkeut district, near the Vietnam border.

The claims stemmed from a 18 June Facebook post on the page “Baeng Pan Kkuam Hu Lod Lak,” translating to “Sharing Knowledge About Tow Trucks,” which included photos and videos purportedly showing active mining at the site.

Khampheng said “no mining is currently taking place at the location.”

He said the page deliberately spread old footage to provoke unrest and undermine public confidence in the government’s enforcement of the mining order. Khampheng also urged the public not to be misled by what he called deceptive content aimed at discrediting Party and government leadership.

Nationwide Mining Enforcement Intensifies

The clarification comes as neighboring Xieng Khouang Province cracks down on illegal gold mining. 

On 20 June, Xieng Khouang authorities detained eight suspects, including six Vietnamese and two Lao nationals, in Mok district, seizing excavators, pickup trucks, and gold separation equipment, and transferred them to border military authorities.

In Savannakhet’s Phin and Sepon districts, authorities arrested 11 people, including six Vietnamese and five Lao nationals, between 20 and 23 May, confiscating excavators, motorized boats, trucks, water pumps, and generators, and recovering sixteen Vietnamese passports and more than one kilogram of mercury. 

Xaysomboun authorities also arrested three individuals and confiscated heavy equipment at an illegal alluvial gold mining site in Nam Yon village, Anouvong district, on 31 May.

The crackdown is part of a nationwide campaign by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce against illegal mining and mineral smuggling. 

New measures announced on 18 June direct authorities to step up inspections of mining sites and processing facilities.

Great Place To Work Reveals Southeast Asia’s Best Workplaces™ in Healthcare & Biopharma

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SINGAPORE, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Great Place To Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, today announced the inaugural Southeast Asia’s Best Workplaces™ in Healthcare & Biopharma 2026 list — a landmark recognition honouring 15 outstanding organizations that have set the benchmark for trust, care, innovation, and performance across one of the region’s most strategically important sectors.

The list is based on confidential survey feedback from more than 36,000 employees across Southeast Asia, generating over 55,000 survey responses, making it one of the most comprehensive and credible benchmarks of workplace culture in the healthcare and biopharma sector across the region.

As Asia’s healthcare market heads toward an estimated value of USD 5 trillion by 2030, projected to contribute nearly 40% of global healthcare growth, Southeast Asia is emerging as a critical hub for healthcare delivery, medical innovation, and life sciences investment. The region’s biopharmaceutical market alone is expected to almost double from approximately USD 6.7 billion in the mid-2020s to nearly USD 12.8 billion over the coming decade, driven by growing demand for advanced therapies, vaccines, biologics, and healthcare services.

Amid this rapid expansion, the organizations recognized on this year’s list are helping shape the future of healthcare across Southeast Asia. From hospitals and healthcare providers to biopharma and MedTech organizations, they are expanding access to care, accelerating innovation, and strengthening health systems to meet the needs of aging populations and rising chronic disease burdens.

“Healthcare and biopharma organizations are the human part of Southeast Asia’s growth story. As demand for care rises and new treatments emerge, what sets the best organizations apart is not only the quality of their science or services, but the culture that supports the people behind them. The organizations recognised on this year’s Southeast Asia’s Best Workplaces™ in Healthcare & Biopharma list demonstrate that when you build high-trust workplaces, you unlock innovation, improve patient outcomes, and become a force for strengthening health systems across the region,” said Evelyn Kwek, Managing Director, Great Place To Work ASEAN & ANZ

Top-Ranked Organizations In Healthcare and Biopharma

Leading the inaugural list are three organizations that exemplify people-first leadership, exceptional workplace trust, and a deep commitment to supporting employees in demanding and highly regulated environments:

#1 AbbVie
#2 Vinmec Healthcare System
#3 Servier

Reflecting on AbbVie’s recognition as the top-ranked organization in healthcare and biopharma, Rama Vela, General Manager, ASEAN, AbbVie, emphasized the deliberate effort required to build a thriving workplace culture. “Great cultures are not created by chance; they are intentionally shaped by people who lead with passion and integrity, collaborate with openness and purpose, and hold themselves accountable to doing what’s right. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to building an environment where our people can thrive and deliver meaningful impact for patients and communities.”

Servier highlighted the role its values play in driving both employee experience and healthcare impact.
“Being recognized as Southeast Asia’s Best Workplaces™ in Healthcare & Biopharma 2026 award is a powerful testament to how we bring our core values – Care, Grow by Sharing, Dare to Innovate, and Commit to Succeed – to life. This achievement reaffirms our commitment to fostering an environment where WE can thrive, grow, and make meaningful impact across the region.”

The full list of 15 honoured organizations is available here

About the Methodology

The Great Place To Work® survey enables employees to share confidential quantitative and qualitative feedback about their organization’s culture and community impact. Employees respond to 60 statements on a 5-point scale and two open-ended questions covering leadership accessibility and integrity, respect and inclusion, training and benefits, well-being, fairness in pay and promotions, sense of pride, and camaraderie.

List rankings are determined by analysing employee feedback to assess the extent to which the experience is consistently shared across the full workforce, measuring differences across demographic groups and roles to evaluate both the quality and consistency of the employee experience.
About Great Place To Work®

As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work® brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their proprietary platform and For All™ Model helps companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified™ or receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ List.  Follow Great Place To Work on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram or visit greatplacetowork.com.sg and sign up for the newsletter to learn more.

Gravity Game Hub Launches Exclusive Gatchaman Collaboration Across Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SINGAPORE, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Gravity Game Hub (GGH) is excited to announce the launch of its first-ever collaboration between the mobile idle RPG Ragnarok Idle Adventure PLUS and the legendary anime franchise Gatchaman. Running from June 24 to July 9, 2026, this limited-time crossover event brings exclusive themed content, exciting challenges, and unique rewards inspired by the iconic heroes of Gatchaman.


“We are excited to bring Gatchaman, one of the most iconic anime franchises in history, into the world of Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus. This collaboration allows us to connect two beloved universes that have inspired generations of fans across Asia and beyond. Through exclusive characters, events, and rewards, we hope to deliver a memorable experience that celebrates both the adventurous spirit of Ragnarok and the heroic legacy of Gatchaman. We sincerely thank our players for their continued support and look forward to sharing this special journey together,” said Harry Choi, President Director, Gravity Game Hub Pte. Ltd.

Exclusive In-Game Content and Rewards

Throughout the event period, players can participate in a variety of special activities, including Daily Log-In Events, Airship Intercept, War Territory, Daily Reward Boosts, and the Cross-Server Dojo. By completing these activities, players can collect event-exclusive currency and exchange it for premium collaboration rewards, including:

  • Exclusive Collaboration Pet: Joe the Condor
  • Special Collaboration Red Card
  • Exclusive Event Title
  • Limited Avatar Frame

Phase 2: Science Ninja Team Event

Starting July 2, players can enjoy an additional collaboration chapter, Science Ninja Team, featuring a themed portal exploration mini-game, cross-server leaderboard competition, and a special roulette event.

Participants will have the opportunity to obtain another exclusive collaboration pet, Jinpei the Swallow, alongside various in-game rewards. Dedicated Skill Comprehension Events for the collaboration pets will also be available, providing valuable upgrade materials, Pet Item Copy, GP, Zeny, and Pet EXP to help players strengthen their companions.

The Ragnarok Idle Adventure PLUS x Gatchaman collaboration update is now available on iOS and Android devices. Players can find full event details and patch notes through the game’s official community channels.

About Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus

Genre: Idle RPG
Platform: Mobile (Android & IOS)
Website: https://roidle.gnjoy.asia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ROIdleAdventure
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roidleadventureplus
Discord: https://discord.gg/roidleadventureplus

About Gravity Game Hub

Founded in 2021, Gravity Game Hub (GGH) Pte. Ltd. is a publisher and developer of online and mobile games, committed to delivering high-quality entertainment experiences and building thriving gaming communities throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.

About Tatsunoko Production

Founded in 1962, Tatsunoko Production Co., Ltd. is a renowned Japanese animation studio and the creator of iconic franchises such as Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, Casshan, Hurricane Polymar, and Tekkaman. The company continues to expand the global reach of its beloved IPs through animation, licensing, and entertainment partnerships.

1...440441442...6,697Page 441 of 6,697