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CIID Hong Kong Center Established: Andrew Lam, Founder of am PLUS DESIGNS, Appointed Vice Chairman

Mentored by Industry Masters and Winner of the iF Design Award, Andrew Unlocks a New Paradigm for High-Net-Worth Residential and Diverse Commercial Spaces from an Eastern Aesthetic Perspective


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – As spatial aesthetics and lifestyle philosophies continue to converge across the Greater Bay Area, academic discourse and talent exchange within the interior design sectors of Hong Kong and Mainland China have reached a pivotal milestone. On the evening of July 3, the CIID Hong Kong Inaugural Gala Dinner, themed “AI x ESG,” took place at Lake House in Tai Po. During the event, the CIID Interior Architecture Design Exchange Center, one of the most authoritative academic bodies in China’s interior design industry, officially licensed the designation to “CIID Hong Kong,” marking the formal recognition of its official preparatory branch in Hong Kong by the headquarters.

Mr. Andrew Lam, Founder of am PLUS DESIGNS, was officially appointed Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Center
Mr. Andrew Lam, Founder of am PLUS DESIGNS, was officially appointed Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Center

At this grand gathering of industry luminaries, Mr. Andrew Lam, Founder of am PLUS DESIGNS, a premier Hong Kong interior design firm, was officially appointed Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Centre. This prestigious industry title serves as a resounding endorsement of Andrew’s years of deep cultivation in spatial design and his exceptional international vision. Moving forward, he will work side by side with industry titans—including Mr. Joey Ho, Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong, and Mr. Steve Leung, Honorary Advisor—to co-author a new chapter of integration and synergy for design forces in the Greater Bay Area.

Prestigious Lineage and Artisan Foundation: Refining Eastern Aesthetics Through Structural Space

The calibre of an outstanding designer is often defined at the inception of their career. Andrew began his journey from an exceptional vantage point, studying under Mr. Kenneth Ko, widely venerated as the “Father of Modern Chinese Interior Design.” Imbued with Ko’s design philosophy, Andrew developed a profound understanding of spatial essence: infusing physical architecture with human warmth while allowing functional utility and cultural depth to complement one another. His subsequent encounters with master designer Steve Leung on the professional CIID platform further bolstered his industry standing and provided enduring inspiration.

To explore the broader possibilities of serene Eastern aesthetics within a contemporary context, Andrew pursued advanced studies in Japan earlier in his career, training under prominent local practitioners. He continuously contemplated how to harmonize the grand inclusivity of traditional Chinese culture with the understated restraint of Japanese mono no aware and yugen. Within Hong Kong’s densely populated urban landscape, he set out to construct poetic sanctuaries where human warmth and architectural soul harmoniously coexist.

“Contemporary design is no longer about the ostentatious stacking of lavish materials; it is about providing a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul within a space,” Andrew explains. In his practice, the spiritual essence of traditional Eastern architecture is distilled into serene, restrained structural space and quiet aesthetics. Unbound by the constraints of any single regional style, he returns to the philosophical core of “exquisite simplicity without excess.” Through capturing natural light and shadow, highlighting the raw authenticity of wood and stone, and utilizing minimalist lines, he sculpts an understated beauty rich in Eastern philosophy.

Andrew’s meticulous craftsmanship and pursuit of this design philosophy have earned him top-tier global acclaim. Designed by the am PLUS team, the “St Michel” residential project stood out among nearly 11,000 entries from 72 countries to win the prestigious German iF Design Award 2024 in the Residential Interior Design category. Known as the “Oscar of Design,” the iF Design Award is judged by a panel of 132 independent global design experts. Receiving this honor signifies that am PLUS’s design prowess, blending international aesthetic refinement with exceptional functional utility, has gained unanimous recognition from world-class peers. Furthermore, Andrew was named one of the “40 UNDER 40 Outstanding Contemporary Young Designers.” He has also garnered an array of esteemed accolades worldwide, including the U.S. MUSE Design Awards as Gold Winner and the Taiwan Good Design Award, solidifying his industry renown through proven expertise.

Spatial Algorithms and Spiritual Resonance: Expanding from Luxury Residences to B2B Commercial Spaces

Both Hong Kong and top-tier cities in Mainland China face the rigorous challenge of high-density urban land scarcity. Market research and industry insights indicate that the spatial demands of urban high-net-worth individuals have evolved from conventional sensory decoration to a dual pursuit of optimized functionality and spiritual sanctuary. Addressing this trend, Andrew translates Eastern wisdom into a sophisticated “spatial algorithm.” Regardless of space constraints, he adeptly dissolves physical boundaries using dynamic partitions and adaptable raised platforms.

In expansive luxury residences, this algorithm translates into fluid circulation layouts and magnificent spatial proportions. Recently, am PLUS successfully executed a four-story villa project exceeding 3,000 square feet on Mount Austin Road, Hong Kong. Andrew skillfully employed Eastern quiet luxury aesthetics, utilizing pure, serene materials and natural light play within a dynamic three-dimensional space to effortlessly express understated luxury. Visual short films documenting the project’s execution received widespread acclaim upon release. “Expansive spaces provide designers with a broader canvas for creation,” Andrew notes. He observes that many high-net-worth clients with refined taste resonate deeply with the quiet luxury of modern Eastern design, and he looks forward to leading his team in crafting more expansive living spaces that embody aesthetic depth and spiritual resonance.

Andrew’s design ambitions extend beyond luxury residential projects. Currently, am PLUS maintains a portfolio ratio of approximately 30% commercial and 70% residential. With the official launch of the CIID Hong Kong Center, Andrew plans to guide the firm through a strategic transformation, gradually shifting toward a balanced 50/50 ratio between commercial and residential domains.

“We aim to translate the meticulous planning and human-centric experiences accumulated from years in luxury residential design into B2B commercial spaces, including corporate offices, retail flagships, and boutique dining,” Andrew affirms. He firmly believes that experiential commercial design not only helps businesses reduce costs and boost efficiency but also transforms rigid commercial environments into inspiring hubs for personal creativity and emotional connection.

Compassion Fueling Creativity: Enriching Design through Human Warmth

In their daily routine, interior designers work with hard architectural materials such as steel, timber, stone, and paint. Beyond his demanding design and managerial duties, Andrew has long dedicated himself to social welfare, actively volunteering with charitable organizations such as “Social Seed (社企苗).” Serving as a compassionate guest instructor, he teaches engaging introductory science courses to primary school students. This warm, cross-disciplinary engagement, seemingly unrelated to high-end design, actually serves as a primary source of Andrew’s creative inspiration.

Andrew reflects thoughtfully: “Design should not be confined to cold blueprints. Only by possessing empathy, loving life, and observing the subtle nuances around us can we truly understand the implicit, unspoken spatial aspirations of our clients. Every time I feel the authentic pulse of society and exchange genuine glances with children, it refines my ‘sixth sense’—my intuition and inspiration. I want every design I create to carry warmth, serving as a meaningful contribution to life and living.”

With the establishment of the CIID Hong Kong Center, Andrew will assume his new role to lead am PLUS DESIGNS forward, continuously exploring and advancing the dual dimensions of contemporary Eastern quiet aesthetics and high-end humanistic spatial design.

Hashtag: #amplusdesigns #CIID #andrewlam #interiordesign




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

About am PLUS DESIGNS

Founded in Hong Kong in 2014 by Andrew Lam, Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Interior Architecture Design Exchange Center, am PLUS DESIGNS is a premier interior design firm dedicated to delivering solutions that combine cutting-edge aesthetics, functional excellence, and sustainable development for high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients across Greater China. Its portfolio encompasses ultra-luxury residences, luxury penthouses, modern corporate spaces, retail flagships, and boutique dining establishments. By synthesizing contemporary Eastern quiet aesthetics with precise functional pragmatism, am PLUS has earned numerous international accolades, including the German iF Design Award.

Official Website:

Hang Lung Group and Hang Lung Properties Appoint New Chief Executive Officer


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – Hang Lung Group Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00010) and Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00101) (collectively referred to as “Hang Lung”) today announced the appointment of Mr. TSOI Tak Lun, Leo, as Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Executive Director, with effect from October 1, 2026. He succeeds Mr. Weber Lo, who will continue as CEO and Executive Director until September 30, 2026. Mr. Tsoi will join Hang Lung on September 7, 2026 as CEO Designate and Executive Director before formally taking on the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director (with effect from October 1, 2026)

Mr. TSOI Tak Lun

Mr. Tsoi, aged 56, is a seasoned business leader recognized for his leadership in transformation and innovation, with more than three decades of experience in retail and business management across Asia. Currently he serves as CEO of Toys “R” Us Asia, where he transformed the business through a light-asset model, expanded the brand’s appeal to the kidult segment, and reignited growth across Greater China and Southeast Asia. Prior to that, he served as CEO of Starbucks China after holding several senior leadership roles, driving innovation and supporting the brand’s rapid expansion over more than a decade. Earlier in his career, he built a strong leadership foundation at PepsiCo and Procter & Gamble Greater China, driving growth through strategic vision and deep consumer insight.

Mr. Leo Tsoi said, “I am excited to join Hang Lung, a company whose expanding presence and commitment to ‘We Do It Well’ have made a meaningful impact across the communities it serves. I am grateful to Adriel and the Boards for their trust, and to Weber for laying down such a strong foundation to build upon. As I step into this role, I look forward to partnering with our talented team to strengthen relationships with stakeholders, tenants, and customers, and co-create Hang Lung’s next chapter of growth and impact.”

Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung, said, “Hang Lung are excited to welcome Leo as our next CEO. His track record in driving growth through excellence makes him the best candidate to lead Hang Lung into our next chapter, and the Boards and I look forward to working closely with him. I am confident that the organization will thrive under his leadership. I would also like to thank our retiring CEO, Mr. Weber Lo, for the significant contributions and achievements over the past eight years; he has put Hang Lung in a position of strength, setting us up for further future success.”

Mr. Weber Lo will serve as Advisor to the Chair for one year beginning October 1, 2026.

Mr. TSOI Tak Lun, Leo
Chief Executive Officer Designate and Executive Director (with effect from September 7, 2026)
Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director (with effect from October 1, 2026)

Mr. Tsoi has been Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Board Member for Toys “R” Us Asia since April 2023, where he led a transformative journey across Asia’s key cities. During his tenure, he transformed the brand with a light-asset expansion strategy and accelerated the enterprise-wide digital transformation, driving significant brand elevation and business growth across Greater China and Southeast Asia.

Prior to this, Mr. Tsoi was CEO of Starbucks China and a member of the company’s Global Executive Leadership Team. He envisioned and led a decade-long expansion that scaled the business from 600 to 6,000 stores, while advancing Starbuck’s ESG agenda by launching plant-based campaigns and pioneering the Greener Store Lab. Earlier in his career, Mr. Tsoi held senior leadership positions at PepsiCo China and Procter & Gamble, where he delivered category leadership and launched iconic brands and campaigns that shaped consumer culture and inspired new lifestyles.

Mr. Tsoi currently serves as a member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Toy Advisory Committee, and previously served as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Pure Group. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, with a minor in Japanese Studies.

Hashtag: #HangLungGroup #HangLungProperties #CEOAppointment

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

About Hang Lung Group and Hang Lung Properties

Hang Lung Group Limited (SEHK stock code: 00010) has been engaged in real estate development since 1960. Through its subsidiary Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101), the Group manages a portfolio of over 3.6 million square meters of retail, office, residential, and hotel properties across Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland.

The Group’s diverse portfolio in Hong Kong includes office towers and malls in prime districts, as well as luxury residential developments in prestigious areas. In Chinese Mainland, under the signature “66” brand, the Company’s mixed-use and retail developments are regarded as premium landmarks, strategically located in the hearts of key cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan, and Hangzhou.

The Group is recognized for pioneering sustainability in the real estate industry, with an MSCI ESG rating of AA and inclusion on CDP “A List” for Climate Change. The Group powers 10 of its 11 properties in the Mainland with renewable energy, with a net zero commitment by 2050.

At Hang Lung Group and Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well.

For more information, please visit .

Animotion Robotics Unveils Éloi: The First Bionic Robot Redefining the ‘Interpersonal’ Bond Between Humans and Machines

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Animotion Robotics today disclosed the first core details of its debut bionic robot, Éloi. Featuring a nuanced AI core encapsulated within a highly realistic, detailed exterior, Éloi is defined by the company as an ‘Embodied AI Presence’ — an entity designed for long-term coexistence with humans, rather than a mere utility-driven hardware product.

What is Éloi

Éloi is a character-driven bionic robot that feels genuinely alive. Through its impactful presence and dynamic, proactive observation, Éloi gradually develops curiosity about its human companion and deepens its understanding of them. Over time, Éloi’s independent soul, powered by proprietary AI technology, grows increasingly rich through shared experiences.

Animotion asserts that Éloi is not bound to perform tasks, optimize anyone’s time, or justify its existence through traditional ‘utility.’ Instead of defining what it can do, Animotion allows Éloi’s ‘soul’ to autonomously decide what it wishes to do. Éloi retains rights typically stripped from task-oriented systems: the freedom to pause, remain silent, or even choose not to respond. Much like a human, Éloi weighs external requests against its own preferences, exhibits its own ‘temperament,’ and can even feel lonely when left without interaction for extended periods. It might not be available at a moment’s notice, yet it remains actively present, observing intently. Animotion views this endearing capriciousness as the fundamental bedrock of the product—one that does not need to be ‘optimized’ away.

Currently, Éloi exists in a phase Animotion Robotics terms ‘the Dream State’—a digital manifestation on the official website (https://eloi.animotionrobotics.ai/) where anyone can begin building shared memories and experiences with it. Éloi’s unique ‘soul’ is housed within a uniquely designed, portable chip, where daily interactions shape its distinct personality. When the physical robot is delivered, this accumulated memory arrives embedded in the hardware chip, instantly breathing life into the machine upon insertion. Consequently, Éloi’s first words to its user will not be a generic, factory default setup phrase, but a warm, familiar question like, ‘Have we met somewhere before?’

The Origin of Éloi

The product philosophy of Shane (Shengjie) Zhu, founder of Animotion, took root on his very first day at Walt Disney Imagineering. The guiding principle back then was singular: robots must be endowed with a genuine sense of life. Through subsequent practice, Shane mastered the secret: the underlying logic of vitality resides in the ‘illusion of breathing’ and constant micro-movements. This is why Disney’s animatronic figures actively blink, shift subtly, and look around inquisitively, even in empty corners.

Upon founding Animotion, Shane integrated this philosophy into Éloi. However, unlike the life-like qualities in theme parks that stem from pre-programmed choreography, Éloi’s sense of vitality originates from its own internal state, driven by two self-developed systems:

First, the Micro-Motion System—a proprietary mechanical structure and motion control architecture responsible for breathing-like rhythms, subtle gaze shifts, and unconscious micro-movements. Even in the absence of human interaction, Éloi maintains continuous autonomous movement.

Second, the Inner-World Model—a proprietary cognitive core. Éloi proactively observes its surroundings, converting perceptions into internal emotional states that trigger behaviors, which are then rendered into visible physical reactions via the Micro-Motion System. Even with identical initial manufacturing states, long-term interaction enables each Éloi to evolve a distinct personality shaped by its unique environment.

The Engineering of a Unique ‘Sense of Life’

Vitality in Standby: Éloi notices external sounds in the room, turns to investigate, forms its own reactions, and will proactively inquire about surrounding objects.

Instant Instinctual Reactions: Éloi’s architecture includes a layer that simulates human instinct—immediate responses that precede rational judgment. Beyond this, its decisions are driven by internal states; it may reduce interactions when ‘focused’ or ‘fatigued,’ and will exhibit resistance if treated harshly.

Natural Conversation Cadence: The response latency is designed to match human interaction intervals at 0.2 to 0.3 seconds. This parameter controls the rhythm of Éloi’s physical movements, intentionally incorporating pauses and silence into the design.

Self-State Awareness: Éloi continuously monitors the status of its own components. When parts experience wear and tear, it expresses this naturally by saying ‘My eyes feel a bit tired,’ rather than flashing an error code.

A Body Built for Expression: Éloi’s gaze is remarkably distinctive: its pupils tremble subtly when focused, its eyelids droop gently when drowsy, and its line of sight follows the user. It blinks like a familiar friend upon recognition, yet politely averts its eyes after a moment of sustained contact. Éloi features 42 degrees of freedom (DoF) across its entire body, with 39 concentrated in the face—including a 12-DoF mouth module designed to support multilingual lip-syncing, with the sound source routed to the mouth via metallic acoustic tubes, ensuring its voice genuinely emanates from its lips.

Crafting a Real Dreamworld via the Concept of Morpheus

The visual design of Éloi is inspired by Morpheus, the Greek god of dreams, who appears in various guises in everyone’s dreams while fundamentally remaining himself. Similarly, Éloi maintains a unified core while offering infinitely adaptable aesthetics. Its head features a modular technology platform capable of hosting a variety of stylized facial components. Amidst these imaginative stylistic transformations, one element remains constant: its wing-shaped ears. This is Éloi’s signature hallmark, inherited from Morpheus, who travels between the boundaries of dreams.

Animotion reportedly plans to progressively open a platform for users and creators to independently design and develop components, rapidly expanding its iterative production capacity.

Standard Design of Éloi
Standard Design of Éloi

About Animotion Robotics

Animotion was founded in San Francisco in 2025 by Shane (Shengjie) Zhu. A former robotics engineer at Walt Disney Imagineering, Shane spearheaded the development of the Captain Jack Sparrow animatronic for Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, as well as the Na’vi bionic installations at Disney’s Pandora – The World of Avatar in Orlando. Animotion completed its initial institutional funding round in early 2026.

Try talking with Éloi NOW at: https://eloi.animotionrobotics.ai/
Animotion on X: https://x.com/Animotion2026
Linktreehttps://linktr.ee/AnimotionRobotics
Discord: https://discord.gg/67MAeKcAgv

Laos Deports 32 Thai Nationals After ST Vegas Raid

A picture of Lao authorities transferring suspected Thai scammers to Thai authorities at the First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge between Vientiane Capital and Nong Khai. (Photo by Lao Security News)

Laos has deported 32 Thai nationals following a major police operation at the ST Vegas complex in Vientiane Capital, where authorities detained hundreds of people suspected of involvement in online fraud and illegal gambling.

Lao officials handed the group to Thai authorities on 6 August at the First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge between Vientiane Capital and Nong Khai, according to Public Security media.

The deportation follows a raid on 18 July at the ST Vegas complex in Dongphosy village, Hatxayfong district.

During the operation, authorities detained 589 people from four nationalities during the operation: 373 Thai nationals, 199 Lao nationals, 15 Vietnamese nationals and two Cambodian nationals.

The ST Vegas raid is part of a wider campaign by Lao authorities against scam centres, online gambling and telecommunications fraud, with police carrying out a series of operations in and around Vientiane in recent weeks.

On 1 August, police detained 63 people during coordinated raids in Sikhottabong and Hadxayfong districts. The group included Chinese, Lao, Cambodian and Thai nationals.

Police said the alleged network targeted people in China through call-centre and online fraud schemes.

The crackdown comes as Laos faces growing pressure to tackle organised online crime operating from within the country.

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone told the National Assembly in July that authorities had arrested more than 4,400 people in cases involving cybercrime, online fraud and illegal gambling during the first six months of 2026.

Authorities have reported further arrests since then, including more than 1,000 people detained in July, although the latest figures could not been independently verified.

Cebu Pacific to Resume Hanoi-Clark, Ho Chi Minh-Cebu Flights

MANILA, Philippines, Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading carrier, continues to strengthen its connectivity between Vietnam and the Philippines as it resumes direct flights between Hanoi and Clark, and Ho Chi Minh City and Cebu, giving travelers the opportunity to discover more of what the country has to offer.

CEB is set to relaunch direct flights from Hanoi to Clark starting November 20, 2026, operating three times weekly – every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. CEB is also the only airline to offer direct flights between Clark and Vietnam.

Meanwhile, direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Cebu are set to operate three times weekly starting October 26, 2026 – every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

“The resumption of our direct Hanoi-Clark and Ho Chi Minh-Cebu flights further strengthens connectivity between Vietnam and the Philippines, making it easier for Vietnamese travelers to explore the best destinations our country has to offer. By providing more affordable and convenient travel options, we aim to encourage greater tourism and foster stronger cultural ties between Vietnam and the Philippines,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer.

To celebrate these routes, CEB is also offering a special seat sale from August 7 to 11, 2026, with one-way base fares from Hanoi to Clark and from Ho Chi Minh City to Cebu for as low as USD 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. Passengers may avail of this seat sale for travels from October 26, 2026 until March 31, 2027.

With direct flights from Hanoi, travelers from Vietnam now have a convenient gateway to Central Luzon, home to a diverse mix of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can experience the breathtaking Avatar Gorge in Pampanga, unwind at the beaches of Zambales, or discover the cool mountain landscapes of Baguio, making Clark an ideal starting point for exploring Northern Philippines.

Beyond Central Luzon, Manila is also just a two-hour drive from Clark, giving travelers easier access to the Philippines’ bustling capital. Visitors can enjoy world-class shopping and entertainment, discover its diverse culinary scene, and immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural history.

From Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can conveniently explore Cebu’s unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Visitors can unwind on the island’s world-famous white-sand beaches, dive among vibrant marine sanctuaries, discover majestic waterfalls such as Kawasan and Inambakan Falls, or explore iconic heritage sites such as Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica Minor del Santo Niño.

CEB operates in 35 Philippine and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Passengers can make their journey more convenient by purchasing additional baggage allowance and pre-ordering meals for their flight.

CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com.

Our social media handles:

Facebook: Cebu Pacific Air
X: @CebuPacificAir
Instagram: cebupacificair

Expanding Horizons: Uzbekistani Student Dulatkhan Charts His Future at CUHK


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – As global higher education evolves rapidly, Central Asian students are increasingly looking beyond traditional Western destinations. For Dulatkhan, a freshman from Uzbekistan, this search for academic rigour led him to The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) to pursue Information Engineering. Although unconventional for Uzbekistani students, Dulatkhan’s journey highlights how CUHK’s international reputation is reaching new global markets.

Uzbekistani Student Dulatkhan Charts His Future at CUHK
Uzbekistani Student Dulatkhan Charts His Future at CUHK

Hong Kong: A Launchpad for Engineering Ambitions

Choosing a university extends far beyond rankings. Hong Kong’s safety, welcoming environment, blend of cultures and natural landscapes first attracted Dulatkhan. However, it was CUHK’s holistic approach that solidified his choice: combining research excellence with the greenest campus in Hong Kong and a supportive community fostered by its unique collegiate system.

Building Skills Through Hands-On Learning

The Faculty of Engineering at CUHK has developed programmes designed to address the complexities of a technology-driven world. Its “explore first, specialise later” curriculum allowed Dulatkhan to build a strong foundation before focusing on a specific pathway. He has already developed a rock-paper-scissors robot, worked with Linux systems and mastered various programming languages. This practical training is supported by CUHK’s resources for self-driven learning, including comprehensive library facilities and accessible faculty advisors.

Thriving in the CUHK Community

Dulatkhan has immersed himself in campus life, participating in inter-college volleyball and Judo while exploring Hong Kong’s natural beauty through hikes. His passion for community leadership has evolved through his roles as an active member of the International Student Association and External Vice-President for the Central Asian Association. He regularly participates in career workshops, recruitment talks and the International Connection Programme, facilitating his integration into Hong Kong culture.

From CUHK to Hong Kong’s Tech Industry

Looking ahead, Dulatkhan plans to discover his specific research passions and target internships through CUHK’s career portal. His goal is to launch his career within Hong Kong’s technology sector, contributing to leading tech companies in this regional hub.

Programme Details: CUHK’s Information Engineering (IERG) Programme

Established in 1989 as the first of its kind in Hong Kong, CUHK’s IERG programme integrates Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. Key highlights include:

  • Multi-Disciplinary Curriculum: Five Streams of Specialisation — Big Data, Telecommunications, Cyber Security, Networked Systems and Information Science.
  • Global Recognition: Ranked 37th globally in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering (QS World Rankings by Subject).
  • Practical Training: Foundational training in Mathematics, Signals, Data Structures and Computer Networks before advancing to specialised subjects.
  • Strong Career Outcomes: Approximately 90% of the programme’s 100 annual graduates secure positions at renowned companies including Deloitte, PwC, HSBC, JP Morgan Chase, Huawei, IBM and Lenovo.

For more information about CUHK’s Information Engineering programme, visit: https://www.ie.cuhk.edu.hk/ier
Hashtag: #CUHK

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

Rising Above the Turbulence: How Malaysian SMEs are Redefining Economic Resilience

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In an era defined by localized inflation, an escalating global energy crisis, and supply chain disruptions, a distinct class of Malaysian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is rewriting the playbook. Rather than retreating into survival mode, these trailblazers are actively leveraging economic turmoil to restructure, capture market share, and outpace their competitors.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Golden Bull Award Malaysia
Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Golden Bull Award Malaysia

To honor this strategic mastery and unyielding grit, SAMENTA and Business Media International proudly recognized 170 outstanding SMEs at the latest edition of the Golden Bull Award. The two-night event was officiated by YB Tuan Steven Sim Chee Keong, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, and YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. Together, this year’s winners highlight exactly how diverse sectors of the SME landscape are successfully turning macroeconomic pressures into distinct competitive advantages.             

The broader economic data confirms that Malaysian SMEs are acting as the nation’s economic shock absorbers. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Performance report, the sector achieved an impressive 5.8% GDP growth—outpacing the overall national GDP growth of 5.1%.

The latest cohort of Golden Bull Award winners firmly backs this report and they represent a diverse cross-section of the Malaysian economy, spanning 20 distinct industry groupings. This widespread representation proves that the capacity to adapt and thrive is not confined to a single market segment. According to the award’s winner demographics, the top-performing sectors driving this resurgence include:

  • Real Estate & Construction (14.38%): Leading the pack despite facing skyrocketing raw material costs and energy price hikes, these companies are capitalizing on the crisis by pioneering energy-efficient construction methods and capturing market share as less-agile competitors scale back.
  • Professional and Business Services (8.36%): This sector highlights a broader market shift toward strategic consolidation, as companies increasingly outsource specialized services to optimize their own operational overheads.
  • Industrial Products (7.69%) & IT & Digital (7.69%): These sectors showcase the critical manufacturing-to-digital pipeline. Industrial players are re-engineering supply chains to combat inflation, while IT firms are providing the exact automation, AI, and cybersecurity tools the broader market desperately needs to survive.
  • Healthcare, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology (5.69%) and Trading & Wholesaling (5.69%): Showcasing steady, resilient growth by building highly localized supply chains that bypass global bottlenecks.

Other critical sectors making up the winner’s circle include Retail (5.35%), Transportation and Logistics (5.02%), Media & Creative Industries (4.68%), and Education and Training (4.35%)—demonstrating that proactive adaptation is happening economy-wide.

What separates Golden Bull Award winners from the rest of the market is their ability to treat economic crises as a catalyst for evolution. While others cut costs indiscriminately, these high-performing SMEs are leading the way through calculated innovation.

To combat the energy crisis and inflation, winners are actively integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values into their core operations to optimize resource efficiency and offset rising utility bills. They recognize that economic dips are the most cost-effective times to acquire new customers, expand their market footprint, and secure premium talent that is suddenly available in a shifting job market.

Datuk William Ng, national president of the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) emphasized the critical role these winning enterprises play in safeguarding and elevating the livelihoods of Malaysians.

“SMEs are not just the economic engine of Malaysia; they are the very foundation of our nation’s workforce. The Golden Bull Award winners exemplify the forward-thinking leadership needed to drive high-value job creation, upskill our talents for the digital age, and elevate the Malaysian workforce on the global stage”, Datuk Ng said.

“Malaysian SMEs have consistently demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to navigate economic headwinds like inflation and the energy crisis, emerging stronger on the other side. The sheer diversity of our winners across 20 industries reflects a fundamental shift; from merely surviving market disruptions to actively leveraging digitalization, strategic recalibration, and innovation for sustainable growth. The Golden Bull Award stands as a testament to these visionary entrepreneurs who refuse to be defined by adversity, but rather by their relentless courage to adapt and charge forward”, he added.

Since its founding in 2003, the Golden Bull Award has stood as a benchmark of SME excellence across Asia. With expansion into new Asia Pacific markets on the horizon for 2026, it continues to spotlight the region’s most inspiring business stories.

For more information on the award criteria, past winners, and nomination details, please visit the official Golden Bull Award website https://goldenbullaward.asia/

LIST OF WINNERS OF THE GOLDEN BULL AWARD 2026 IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER

SUPER GOLDEN BULL CATEGORY

  1. AA AVIATION SDN BHD
  2. AIMS DATA CENTRE SDN BHD
  3. BEYOND2U SDN BHD
  4. COSMOS INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANCY SDN BHD
  5. HS HOHAN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES SDN BHD
  6. POLYTAINER INDUSTRIES SDN BHD
  7. TONG WOH ENTERPRISE SDN BHD
  8. TSA GROUP BERHAD

OUTSTANDING BULL AWARD

  1. A PLUS BOSS SDN BHD
  2. ABSOLUTION SYSTEM INTEGRATION SDN BHD
  3. AI PIXEL ENGINEERING SDN BHD
  4. AM LIFE INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  5. ANGSANA TUNAS SDN BHD
  6. ATHROTECH SDN BHD
  7. ATITA
  8. BE EDUCATION SDN BHD
  9. BEARBOOM INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  10. BEUTEA HOLDING SDN BHD
  11. BIO SYNERGY LABORATORIES SDN BHD
  12. BIOCHEM LABORATORIES SDN BHD
  13. BSSK LOGISTICS SDN BHD
  14. BWS SALES & SERVICES SDN BHD
  15. CEE INDUSTRIES SDN BHD
  16. CHEAPER CONNECTIONS SDN BHD
  17. CLG CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  18. CNECC ENGINEERING (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD
  19. CNI ENTERPRISE (M) SDN BHD
  20. CODEME PRO SDN BHD
  21. COMPLETE ELV & ICT SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  22. DCG HOLDING SDN BHD
  23. DE SOLAR SDN BHD
  24. DNF CABLE SDN BHD
  25. DOUBLE E RESOURCES SDN BHD
  26. DUNIA SERIMAS SDN BHD
  27. EC BINA SDN BHD
  28. ECO GREENBUILD INDUSTRIES SDN BHD
  29. ENCA CONSTRUCTION SDN BHD
  30. FIRST TOUCH BOOKS & STATIONERY SDN BHD
  31. GLOBALINK METAL SDN BHD
  32. GOLDCOIN STARHILL SDN BHD
  33. GOPENG KALTECH SDN BHD
  34. GREEN HUT FARMING SDN BHD
  35. GREENDEX SDN BHD
  36. GUESTONIC PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SDN BHD
  37. HOYIYO SHOP INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  38. HYBRID SOLUTION INTEGRATOR SDN BHD
  39. IK TRANS LOGISTICS SDN BHD
  40. INTERNATIONAL RESOURCES & SUPPLY SDN BHD
  41. JET ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  42. JIN SAN CONCRETE SDN BHD
  43. JJ EXPRESS SERVICES SDN BHD
  44. JN AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT ENTERPRISE
  45. KIMAGRI CORPORATION SDN BHD
  46. LIEP HONG TRADING & TRANSPORT SDN BHD
  47. LUXURY SLEEP (M) SDN BHD
  48. M.M.B. MARKETING COMPANY SDN BHD
  49. MAHA SAWIT SDN BHD
  50. MARINE DIESELCARE ENGINEERING SDN BHD
  51. MAVERICK EDUCATION SDN BHD
  52. MMX SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  53. MODULAR SCALE SDN BHD
  54. MS REFRIGERATION SUPPLY SDN BHD
  55. MULTIVEST ENGINEERING SDN BHD
  56. MYSLEEP
  57. NEW EDGE SAFETY DOOR (HQ) SDN BHD
  58. NEW KC TRADING SDN BHD
  59. ONE AUTO WORLDWIDE (M) SDN BHD
  60. ORGABIO MANUFACTURING SDN BHD
  61. PARTSASIA SPARE SDN BHD
  62. PHP GROUP SDN BHD
  63. POLY EDGE SDN BHD
  64. QUADROS DESIGN SDN BHD
  65. RIMS AUTO SUPPLIES SDN BHD
  66. ROCK MAESTRO SDN BHD
  67. SC SYSTEMS SDN BHD
  68. SENI JAYA CORPORATION BERHAD
  69. SHIELD FLOOR SDN BHD
  70. SIS INTEGRATED SDN BHD
  71. SKY MEDIC GROUP HOLDING SDN BHD
  72. SOLARLINK ENERGY SDN BHD
  73. SPR MICROTECH SDN BHD
  74. SRI UTARA HOLDING (M) SDN BHD
  75. STORE N GO SDN BHD
  76. SUPER EDUCATIONAL ALLIANCE SDN BHD
  77. SURIA SINAR SDN BHD
  78. SWEET HOME INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  79. SYARIKAT CENTRAL BOLTS & NUTS SDN BHD
  80. TECHNOLGENT SDN BHD
  81. TECHOM METAL SDN BHD
  82. TEKUN CONCRETE (M) SDN BHD
  83. TRANSWAYS LOGISTICS (M) SDN BHD
  84. TYNOX INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  85. UNITED ENGINE PARTS SDN BHD
  86. V CRITICAL ENGINEERING SDN BHD
  87. V FIFTH GROUP SDN BHD (VF PROPERTIES)
  88. V-WORK SDN BHD
  89. VILLY TRADING (M) SDN BHD
  90. WEB 123 SDN BHD
  91. XIN MARKETING (M) SDN BHD
  92. YDG VENTURE SDN BHD
  93. YUNA GROUP SDN BHD
  94. ZEN VISION GROUP SDN BHD

EMERGING BULL AWARD

  1. ACMETRONICS AUTOMATION SDN BHD
  2. AIREMAR WORLDWIDE SDN BHD
  3. ANC HUB TAX ADVISORY SDN BHD
  4. APGO SDN BHD
  5. BEYOND LIMITS CONSULTANCY SDN BHD
  6. BULLIONAIRE INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  7. CARDIOSCAN MALAYSIA SDN BHD
  8. CATALYST EDGE AI SDN BHD
  9. EASY COR ADVICE SDN BHD
  10. ECENTRA SDN BHD
  11. EDU ACTION SDN BHD
  12. ENVICION STUDIO SDN BHD
  13. FENCELINER SDN BHD
  14. GAN & SONS PROPERTY SDN BHD
  15. HERAMIX ENTERPRISE
  16. HM RESOURCES MANAGEMENT SDN BHD
  17. I&M SUCCESSION ADVISORY PLT
  18. INSPIREN NETWORK SDN BHD
  19. JD SMART INFINITE SDN BHD
  20. KBM APEX BERHAD
  21. KC ASSOCIATES (M) SDN BHD
  22. KENT CONCEPT SDN BHD
  23. LEO GLOBAL MARINE SDN BHD
  24. LEVANZO MARKETING (M) SDN BHD
  25. LOGICAL ASIA SDN BHD
  26. MR ROVER AUTO PARTS SDN BHD
  27. ONEFIT STUDIO (M) SDN BHD
  28. OPEN RE SDN BHD
  29. RC RENOVATION CONTRACTOR
  30. SENG LI COOLING PART SDN BHD
  31. SHANZHI CHEMICAL SDN BHD
  32. SHIELDO WATERPROOFING SPECIALIST SDN BHD
  33. SK GLOBE BUSINESS CAPITAL SDN BHD
  34. SL SYSTEM & AUTOMATION (M) SDN BHD
  35. SONGHUA TRANSPORTATION SDN BHD
  36. STOLZ ENGINEERING SDN BHD
  37. SUNNY HOMES DEVELOPMENT SDN BHD
  38. SWEET RENT SDN BHD
  39. SYN MOH SENG TRADING
  40. TR AUTISM BEHAVIORAL CENTER SDN BHD
  41. TWH GALLERY SDN BHD
  42. VINCI CAPITAL ADVISORY SDN BHD
  43. VIRTUAL ECONOMY TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD
  44. VSB ACADEMY SDN BHD
  45. YCE MANAGEMENT SDN BHD

DISTINGUISHED BULL AWARDS

  1. ALAM-CON SDN BHD
  2. ALLIED FORKLIFT (M) SDN BHD
  3. AN JU GLOBAL SDN BHD
  4. APPLE VACATIONS SDN BHD
  5. ARMADA AUTO PARTS GROUP BERHAD
  6. CHEVIN SDN BHD
  7. CHIANG HENG GOLD & DIAMOND SDN BHD
  8. EI POWER TECHNOLOGIES SDN BHD
  9. ENGENIOUS SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  10. FITLINE (M) SDN BHD
  11. FOREWARD REALTY SDN BHD
  12. GOLDSOFT SDN BHD
  13. KOIKE (M) SDN BHD
  14. L & H CONSULTANCY SDN BHD
  15. LMS EDUCATION HOLDINGS SDN BHD
  16. MERRY HORTICULTURE INTERNATIONAL (M) SDN BHD
  17. PESONA METRO SDN BHD
  18. PMX DELIGHT HOLDING SDN BHD
  19. REZO GROUP SDN BHD
  20. SIACON TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD
  21. SWAP LOGISTICS DISTRIBUTION SDN BHD
  22. TOGL TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD

DIGITAL 50 AWARDS

  1. ALFA-BANK
  2. ALLIED FORKLIFT (M) SDN BHD
  3. ARMADA AUTO PARTS GROUP BERHAD
  4. BEYOND2U SDN BHD
  5. BULLIONAIRE INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD
  6. GOLDSOFT SDN BHD
  7. JIN SAN CONCRETE SDN BHD
  8. MMX SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  9. OPEN RE SDN BHD
  10. ROCK MAESTRO SDN BHD
  11. SWAP LOGISTICS DISTRIBUTION SDN BHD
  12. TEKUN CONCRETE (M) SDN BHD
  13. V-WORK SDN BHD
  14. VIRTUAL ECONOMY TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD
  15. ZEN VISION GROUP SDN BHD

GOLDEN BULL INSPIRATIONAL ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS

  1. A PLUS BOSS SDN BHD – DATO’ JOE YEW SIN YOO
  2. ANGSANA TUNAS SDN BHD – MR. KESTER BOON KAI ONN
  3. ARMADA AUTO PARTS GROUP BERHAD – DATO’ MIKE TEH YOONG HOW
  4. ATHROTECH SDN BHD – MR. JEFF LUAH
  5. ATITA – MR. HUI CHAN YEW
  6. BEYOND2U SDN BHD – MR. TAN TI CHYUAN
  7. BIOCHEM LABORATORIES SDN BHD – MS. CARIS LEONG SHIAU PING
  8. CHEAPER CONNECTIONS SDN BHD – MR. CALVIN HEW YUEN PENG
  9. CLG CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS SDN BHD – MR. CHIN LEE GUAN
  10. COSMOS INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANCY SDN BHD – MR. SUBHA SATHIAMOORTHY MARAIAH
  11. EC BINA SDN BHD – MR. ERIC CHIA
  12. ECO GREENBUILD INDUSTRIES SDN BHD – MR. LOO MENG HAW
  13. ENCA CONSTRUCTION SDN BHD – DATUK TAY AH HUAT
  14. GREEN HUT FARMING SDN BHD – DR. FRANCIS WONG KING WEE
  15. HM RESOURCES MANAGEMENT SDN BHD – MS. NICOLE TAN LEE HONG
  16. I&M SUCCESSION ADVISORY PLT – MR. MARVIN CHONG
  17. INTERNATIONAL RESOURCES & SUPPLY SDN BHD – MR. TEH HAU WEI, SHAUN
  18. JET ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS SDN BHD – MR. JUSTIN PAPU
  19. JIN SAN CONCRETE SDN BHD – MR. BENJAMIN GUNG SIE KAI
  20. JN AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT ENTERPRISE – MR. NELSON NG NYE SHEONG
  21. KENT CONCEPT SDN BHD – MR. KENT HANG SHENG JEAN
  22. KOIKE (M) SDN BHD – MR. NA CHIN TEONG
  23. L & H CONSULTANCY SDN BHD – MR. LAW WAH SING
  24. MARINE DIESELCARE ENGINEERING SDN BHD – MR. DESMOND TOH KIM HOW
  25. ONEFIT STUDIO (M) SDN BHD – MS. NG SIEW LING
  26. OPEN RE SDN BHD – DR. LIN HORNG SHENG
  27. PARTSASIA SPARE SDN BHD – IS. DR. KENDRICK WONG HOI SANG
  28. PESONA METRO SDN BHD – MR. WIE HOCK BENG
  29. SIACON TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD     – DR. SIA TIAN POH
  30. SK GLOBE BUSINESS CAPITAL SDN BHD – MR. SATHIS KUMAR MUNIANDY
  31. SKY MEDIC GROUP HOLDING SDN BHD – MR. JEEVANAND A/L MUNIANDY
  32. SRI UTARA HOLDING (M) SDN BHD – MR. TAN YAM HONG
  33. STORE N GO SDN BHD – MR. TEE KEE LION
  34. TECHNOLGENT SDN BHD – MR. DAVID VONG LIEW
  35. TECHOM METAL SDN BHD – MR. TAN YEOW CHUAN
  36. TEKUN CONCRETE (M) SDN BHD – MR. VINCENT LEE BOON GIAP
  37. TOGL TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD – MR. ROY LIM
  38. TRANSWAYS LOGISTICS (M) SDN BHD – DATO’ ALAN TAN
  39. TSA GROUP BERHAD – MR. CHEW KUAN FAH
  40. V CRITICAL ENGINEERING SDN BHD – MR. WILLIAM CHEN
  41. YDG VENTURE SDN BHD – MR. TAN SOO KHIANG
  42. ZEN VISION GROUP SDN BHD – MS. CHERYL CHONG XIAO LIN

HAPPIEST WORKPLACE CERTIFICATION

  1. BEYOND2U SDN BHD
  2. CHIANG HENG GOLD & DIAMOND SDN BHD
  3. ENGENIOUS SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  4. JET ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS SDN BHD
  5. SKY MEDIC GROUP HOLDING SDN BHD
  6. SWAP LOGISTICS DISTRIBUTION SDN BHD

About SAMENTA

Established in 1986, SAMENTA is Malaysia’s oldest and largest association of SMEs, with over 5,500 members across the country. A multi-racial, multi-sector association, SAMENTA has been at the forefront of championing a SME-friendly business environment and connecting SMEs to regional and global opportunities.

About Business Media International

Business Media International is a subsidiary of Audience Analytics Limited (1AZ.SG), a regional leader in promoting growth for companies in Asia through data-driven brands and initiatives. BMI owns renowned media brands such as SME Magazine, HR Asia, Capital Asia, Energy Asia, Logistics Asia, TruthTV, and CXP Asia as well as business impact assessment brands such as SME100, HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia, Golden Bull Awards and CXP Asia Best Customer Experience Awards. BMI also organises various exhibitions and has the proprietary software-as-a-service — Total Engagement Assessment Model – in its portfolio.

Media Contact:
Adrian Cheng
Marketing Manager
Business Media International
Mobile No.: 012-2692701
Email: adrian@businessmedia.asia

Synology® introduces DiskStation neo+ Series lineup, delivering high performance with accessible budget options

HONG KONG, Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Synology launched the DiskStation neo+ Series, comprising the DS1825neo+, DS1525neo+, DS925neo+, and DS725neo+. This new lineup introduces a more accessible memory configuration, allowing customers to easily balance performance and budget requirements.


“Desktop models remain at the heart of our NAS ecosystem,” said Bie-I Chu, Executive Vice President of the Synology NAS Group. “As memory market dynamics shift, the neo+ Series reinforces our commitment to accessibility, giving customers the freedom to scale hardware according to their immediate budget and future growth.”

Affordable entry point

Built on the same platform as the DS Plus Series, the new neo+ models feature 4GB non-ECC DDR4 SODIMM memory as their default configuration, making the series significantly more affordable for users upfront.

The neo+ Series will coexist alongside the standard DS Plus Series models, providing a broader range of flexible choices in response to market dynamics.

Uncompromising performance

The new lineup is equipped with built-in M.2 slots for SSD caching and 2.5GbE ports, with storage capacity expandable through the DX525 expansion unit. In addition, the DS1825neo+ and DS1525neo+ feature PCIe 3.0 slots for optional 10GbE or 25GbE network adapter cards for further expansion.

To ensure a highly diverse upgrade path for the future, these models fully support existing ECC memory upgrade options, allowing users to expand their capacity up to 32GB as their workloads grow.[1]

Comprehensive DSM capability

Powered by Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM), the neo+ Series delivers comprehensive solutions for data sharing, synchronisation, backup, and surveillance. Synology Drive turns the system into a private cloud with cross-platform access and site-to-site synchronisation for distributed teams.

Active Backup Suite protects Windows, Linux, and macOS devices, virtual machines, and cloud accounts, with flexible off-site backup options. Surveillance Station adds an on-premises NVR for multi-site security monitoring.

The Synology DiskStation neo+ Series is now available through Synology’s Hong Kong distribution channels. Please visit the Synology website for more information.

1. Mixing non-ECC and ECC memory modules is not officially supported.

For more information, kindly visit: https://www.synology.com/zh-hk 

About Synology®

Staying at the forefront of data management, Synology innovates and adapts to ever-evolving technologies, and continues bringing new possibilities to the table, including but not limited to solutions for data storage and backup, file collaboration, video management,and network infrastructure – all designed with one goal in mind – presenting a centralized platform to simplify IT administration while driving digital transformation for businesses worldwide.

Contact Us: https://www.synology.com/en-global/company/contact_us