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Cambodia Launches Cybercrime Crackdown, Arrests 1,000 in Scam Raids

Cambodia Launches Cybercrime Crackdown, Arrests 1,000 in Scam Raids
Cambodian authorities have arrested more than 200 Vietnamese nationals in internet scam centre raids, police said on July 16, 2025 as Prime Minister Hun Manet ordered a crackdown on cybercrime sweatshops. (Photo by POOL / AFP) Related content

AFP – Cambodian authorities have arrested more than 1,000 people in raids on internet scam centers, police said on 16 July, as Prime Minister Hun Manet ordered a crackdown on cybercrime sweatshops.

Final call: InfoComm Asia 2025 Opens Next Week in Bangkok with 256 New Product Launches and Deep Dive into AI Integration

Asia’s premier Professional Audiovisual event offers last chance to register as it prepares to welcome thousands with innovation and learning opportunities amidst APAC’s lead in market scale & growth.

BANGKOK, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes every industry, InfoComm Asia 2025 will provide the definitive roadmap for its integration into the world of Professional Audiovisual (Pro AV) when it opens next week in Bangkok, Thailand. From 23-25 July at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), the event will bring the impact of AI in AV to life, featuring 170 exhibitors, over 250 new product launches, and expert-led Summit sessions dedicated to its practical application.

InfoComm Asia brings thousands of industry professionals together for three days of networking, learning, and discovery of the latest technology shaping the future.
InfoComm Asia brings thousands of industry professionals together for three days of networking, learning, and discovery of the latest technology shaping the future.

This year’s show will feature an expansive showcase from 170 exhibitors representing 13 countries and regions. Attendees will have the first look at 256 new product launches, making it a critical destination for sourcing next-generation technology. The show floor will feature an expanded range of innovation, with 59 companies exhibiting for the first time.

What to See: A Hub of Market-Ready AI-Driven Innovation

The central theme of AI will be evident in the exhibition, with tangible, AI-driven solutions on display, including:

  • Video cameras with AI voice tracking and gesture recognition from AVER (P10).
  • Camera with AI voice tracking integrated with Dante-based solutions from LUMENS (J10).
  • AI-powered tracking cameras by HDKATOV (K23) and WYRESTORM (C15).
  • Advanced AI-led video wall control for command centers by AVCIT.
  • AI noise reduction audio solutions by AVERMEDIA (P05) and VLINKA (P12).
  • High-performance, AI-driven computing solutions for enterprise, retail, healthcare and smart cities from SHUTTLE (E16).

Other exhibitors with market-ready AI-driven solutions include AV ACCESS (F19), INCEPTTECH (L20), IDMA (P19), and PERSONA (M15). Explore even more solutions and exhibitors here.

InfoComm Asia 2025: A showcase of the latest AI-powered solutions in audio, video, and collaboration from the world's leading brands.
InfoComm Asia 2025: A showcase of the latest AI-powered solutions in audio, video, and collaboration from the world’s leading brands.

Go Beyond the Booth: Immersive Demos, Workshops & Networking 
This year, InfoComm Asia is rolling out new experiences and initiatives:

  • Dedicated Demo Rooms: For the first time, leading brands including HARMAN, CISCO, and NEAT will host dedicated rooms on level 1 of QSNCC for in-depth solution demonstrations.
  • AVIXA Xchange Live: The popular online community makes its in-person debut in Asia, offering a space on the show floor for vibrant discussions and meetups for groups like the AVIXA Women’s Council in Asia, Rising Professionals Meet Up and AV/IT Community Meetup.
  • Hands-on Workshops: The interactive ‘Lunch & Learn: AI in AV Workshop’ will equip professionals with skills to use advanced AI tools in their creative processes. 

Admission to this rich educational content and more throughout the three show days is free for all registered visitors. The complete Show Program and Schedule are available here.

A Vibrant Show Floor: Exhibitor Activities and Industry Milestones

Besides innovative solutions on display, the show floor at InfoComm Asia 2025 will be buzzing with special events hosted by exhibitors, offering unique opportunities for deeper engagement. In-booth experiences include:

  • Enjoying daily Happy Hour at HARMAN(L01), in addition to their HARMAN Connect Demo Room (MR108) for live demos.
  • Diving deep into the future of collaboration at CISCO (MR109A-B) Workplace Technology Exchange. Registration is required.
  • TELEVIC’s (M10) famous Beer Event on Day 2 for lighthearted, casual networking with peers.
  • Joining daily booth tours at YEALINK(K10) for interactive product demos and tailored insights. Registration is required.
  • Getting hands-on demos with the new ENGAGE software and switches at NETGEAR (D01)
  • VITEC (J15) hosting a cocktail reception for visitors on Day 1 and 2.
  • Connecting your device at AVER (P10) to test their award-winning video conference systems and run demo meetings on the platform of your choice.

Marking a defining moment for the local pro audio industry, InfoComm Asia is proud to host the Official Thailand Professional Qualification Institute (TPQI) Certification Ceremony, a collaboration that highlights the show’s commitment to supporting the elevation of technical expertise in the region. Ms. Jullada Meejul, Director General of TPQI, will be present to award the inaugural cohort of professional live sound specialists who have successfully completed the assessment. The ceremony will take place on the InfoComm Smart Tech Stage on Day 2 of the show (24 July).

The 2025 edition of InfoComm Asia will focus on more immersive and dynamic experiences with a new generation of AI-enabled Professional AV products.
The 2025 edition of InfoComm Asia will focus on more immersive and dynamic experiences with a new generation of AI-enabled Professional AV products.

What to Learn: Strategic Insights from Global Experts
The InfoComm Asia Summit will feature 63 sessions across 19 tracks, with 58 expert speakers. The program will provide strategic foresight and practical knowledge on the impact of AI and other key trends. Highlight sessions include Day 1 Opening Panel “Visions of 2030: Reimagining the Future of Business and Technology”, “How Human-Centric AI is Changing Customer Engagement”, and practical deep dives like, “Transforming Workplaces with AI-Driven Intelligent Devices”, “AI & The Future of Workplace Collaboration and Engagement”, and “How AI-Driven AV is Shaping the Classroom of Tomorrow”.

Plan Your Visit: Final Call for Registration

Professionals and technology end-users are encouraged to register before the show to ensure seamless entry. Visitor registration is complimentary – secure show badge here. For complete show information, visit website here.

About InfoCommAsia
InfoCommAsia Pte Ltd. extends its influence through three marquee shows: InfoComm Asia; InfoComm China, Beijing; and InfoComm India. Each show features an exhibition that showcases the world’s most cutting-edge and in-demand professional audiovisual and integrated experience technology solutions and a summit that presents learning opportunities. The shows bring together professional audiovisual industry players and top-level decision-makers from across different markets to tap into the vast potential presented by pro AV solutions.

For more information, visit: infocomm-asia.com | infocomm-china.com | infocomm-india.com 

To access more press info and show photos, please go to Digital Press Kit.
For media enquiries, please write to media@infocommasia.com or contact:
Angie Eng, Marketing Director
InfoCommAsia Pte Ltd
angieeng@infocommasia.com

Where Heritage Lives: Celebrate SG60 with Grand Park City Hall

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Singapore proudly celebrates her 60th birthday, Grand Park City Hall invites Singaporeans and residents to rediscover a different side of our beloved island – one rich in culture, heritage, and architectural elegance.

Stay Where History Meets Luxury with Grand Park City Hall
Stay Where History Meets Luxury with Grand Park City Hall

To mark this significant national milestone, the hotel has unveiled a specially curated suite of experiences blending history, gastronomy, and refined comfort.

Nestled right in the heart of Singapore’s storied Civic District, Grand Park City Hall is just steps away from iconic heritage museums, local art galleries, and architectural treasures, making it makes the perfect base to explore Singapore’s storied past and dynamic present. With neoclassical architecture and Peranakan-inspired interiors, Grand Park City Hall truly reflects Singapore’s multicultural soul, promising a uniquely Singaporean stay right in the city centre.

From exclusive rates to immersive cultural access, the hotel’s SG60 Celebrations are thoughtfully designed to inspire meaningful stays and authentic connections for all.

Guests can look forward to:

  • Exclusive Stay Experiences – Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents can enjoy Complimentary Club Lounge Upgrade for stays by 31 August. Don’t forget to check out the Heritage Stay Packages and nostalgic in-room play amenities in the Family Suite for a trip down memory lane.
  • Views of the Celebratory Fireworks – Catch the dazzling fireworks display every Saturday in the lead up to National Day on 9 August, right from the Rooftop Garden.
  • Cultural Access & Partner Privileges – Receive special perks and discounts at nearby museums and family attractions, perfect for a day out with loved ones.
  • SG60 Celebration Menu at Tablescape Restaurant – Embark on a limited-time culinary journey featuring exquisite local flavours, served in a beautiful neoclassical setting.
  • Mid-Week SG60 Sale – Grab special room rates when you book every Wednesday and Thursday in August.

For full details on Grand Park City Hall’s SG60 offerings, visit here.

“Whether you’re looking to rediscover our vibrant city or simply celebrate our Diamond Jubilee with fresh eyes, guests are invited to experience SG60 from a hotel that truly embodies Singapore’s heritage, where history, culture, and contemporary hospitality beautifully converge.”

About Grand Park City Hall

Grand Park City Hall is the flagship luxury hotel of Park Hotel Group, nestled in the heart of Singapore’s Civic District within the Central Business District (CBD). Located within a three-minute walk from City Hall MRT, the 343-room hotel offers seamless access to Singapore’s major train lines and cultural landmarks. A blend of sleek design, Peranakan motifs and vintage touches evoke the richness of Singapore’s past, while thoughtful amenities and service reflect its forward-facing hospitality. Every stay is crafted to offer guests a deep sense of place and connection.

Find out more about Grand Park City Hall here

Dine & Celebrate Singapore's 60th with Grand Park City Hall
Dine & Celebrate Singapore’s 60th with Grand Park City Hall

ZEISS Group Appoints Martin Fischer as President and CEO of ZEISS Greater China

SHANGHAI, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZEISS Group recently announced that Martin Fischer will officially take on the role of President and CEO of ZEISS Greater China, effective from October 1, 2025, reporting directly to Andreas Pecher, President and CEO of the ZEISS Group. Martin Fischer succeeds Maximilian Foerst, who joined the Executive Board of the ZEISS Group as the President and CEO of Carl Zeiss Meditec AG on June 1, 2025. ZEISS Greater China manages all business activities in China’s mainland, Hong Kong SAR, and Taiwan Region.

ZEISS Group Appoints Martin Fischer as President and CEO of ZEISS Greater China
ZEISS Group Appoints Martin Fischer as President and CEO of ZEISS Greater China

“ZEISS’s commitment to Greater China remains strong. China is ZEISS’s largest market and is an important cornerstone in its global footprint. I am very pleased that Martin Fischer has agreed to take on this important position,” says Andreas Pecher. “Martin is a very experienced leader, who is already quite familiar with ZEISS and our customers. This will ensure a smooth transition as we continue our Greater China strategy that started under Maximilian Foerst’s leadership.” 

Martin Fischer joined ZEISS in 2006 and has held positions at various business segments including Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (SMT), Industrial Quality Solutions (IQS), and Research Microscopy Solutions (RMS). Since 2022, he has been Global Head of Sales, Service & Marketing for RMS. In this position, he has expanded the commercial organization to include marketing and customer experience. He also set up and led various strategically important programs. These have enabled the RMS team to successfully sell agnostic software and enter the future growth markets of biotech & pharma as well as electronics/semiconductors. In addition, he has made important contributions to regional growth projects in the US and APAC, and to the strategic programs for the ZEISS Group.

“I am very honored to be appointed as President and CEO of ZEISS Greater China. Maximilian successfully led all the business segments in the region for the past 16 years, laying a solid foundation for future development,” said Martin Fischer. “I am excited to lead the Greater China team, which consists of a strong and efficient management team, along with thousands of dedicated and passionate employees. The strategic development of ZEISS Greater China is at the forefront of the Group, and I look forward to achieving more progress in innovation, localization, and all business segments in the future.”

About ZEISS Group

ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the fields of optics and optoelectronics. In the fiscal year 2023/24, the ZEISS Group generated annual revenue totaling nearly 11 billion euros in its four segments: Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology and Consumer Markets (as of 30 September 2024). Currently, 15 percent of revenue is invested in science and R&D.

For its customers, ZEISS develops, produces and distributes highly innovative solutions for industrial metrology and quality assurance, microscopy solutions for life sciences and materials research, and medical technology solutions for diagnostics and treatment in ophthalmology and microsurgery. The name ZEISS is also synonymous with the world’s leading lithography optics, which are used by the chip industry to manufacture semiconductor components. There is global demand for trendsetting ZEISS brand products such as eyeglass lenses, camera lenses and binoculars.

With a portfolio aligned with future growth areas like digitalization, healthcare and smart production and a strong brand, ZEISS is shaping the future of technology and constantly advancing the world of optics and related fields with its solutions. The company’s significant, sustainable investments in research and development lay the foundation for the success and continued expansion of ZEISS’s technology and market leadership.

Today, around 46,500 employees work at the ZEISS Group globally in around 50 countries. The company is headquartered in Oberkochen (Germany). The Carl Zeiss Foundation, one of the largest foundations in Germany committed to the promotion of science, is the sole owner of the holding company, Carl Zeiss AG.

Further information available at www.zeiss.com

About ZEISS in Greater China

ZEISS’ history in Greater China dates to 1957. ZEISS is now represented in the Greater China market with all segments including Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industry Quality & Research, Medical Technology, and Consumer Markets. Since 2021, China has become ZEISS’s largest single market in the world, and one of the most innovative and fastest-growing markets. In the fiscal year 2023/24, ZEISS in Greater China generated annual revenue totaling 15.1 billion RMB, with a 12% increase compared to the prior year. Over 7,000 employees throughout the country with more than 60 sites of manufacturing factories, sales & service offices and R&D centers strongly support our customers in the region, and guarantee every related business internationally.

The headquarters of ZEISS Greater China is located in Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone. It is home to a wide range of activities: China Sales & Service headquarters, competence and training centers, manufacturing facility for the ZEISS Industrial Metrology business group and Shanghai Innovation and R&D Center, ZEISS Group’s first corporate innovation and R&D center outside of Germany. ZEISS regional headquarters and the Innovation and R&D Center in Shanghai, together with the Suzhou R&D and Manufacturing Site and Guangzhou Knowledge Manufacturing Base are creating a closed-loop industrial chain that includes medical devices, high-end manufacturing and R&D equipment, and optical lenses. ZEISS is committed to supporting domestic R&D and works closely with Chinese partners to ensure the high-quality and sustainable development of China’s cutting-edge industries.

Further information available at www.zeiss.com.cn

 

Guardian Expands Access to Everyday Health and Holistic Wellness with New Mobile App

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Guardian, Singapore’s #1 trusted health and wellness retailer, today announced the launch of its new mobile application, bringing a more convenient and rewarding way for customers to shop their health, beauty and wellness essentials.

Download the New Guardian App
Download the New Guardian App

Designed to connect the in-store offline and online shopping experience, the Guardian app places the retailer’s comprehensive curation of health, beauty and wellness solutions right at customers’ fingertips. Customers can easily browse from thousands of health, beauty and wellness products from vitamins and supplements to skincare and beauty products all in one app. They can also get instant insights to product information and usage tips through the in-app product barcode scanner.

In addition, the app reinforces Guardian’s commitment to preventive health through its wide network of trusted pharmacists. Customers can locate the nearest Guardian store, check pharmacists’ availability and book pharmacy and healthcare services such as diabetes care, smoking cessation, flu vaccination and medical teleconsultation, for a more seamless and integrated health service.

Research shows that 84% in Singapore are using mobile apps and digital services in their daily lives. In response, the Guardian app is a timely and significant step toward expanding access to preventive care and holistic wellness, with more features to be added as customer needs evolve. The app empowers customers to take charge of their wellness goals, complementing Guardian’s existing digital website and its network of more than 120 stores across Singapore.

To make everyday shopping even more rewarding, Guardian has integrated yuu Rewards – Singapore’s #1 rewards programme – into the new app, allowing customers to earn points as they shop via the app. Enjoy free Click & Collect with a minimum spend of $20 at over 60 stores in as early as 2 days. The enhanced Click & Collect feature makes picking up everyday essentials quicker and more convenient than ever.

From 17 July, customers can look out for app-exclusive perks, including:  

  • $1 Daily Deals (up to 99% off) with $40 minimum spend till 13 August 2025.
  • Daily flash deals with at least 50% off till 13 August 2025.
  • Complimentary sample with every in-app purchase, offering opportunities to discover and try new products till 13 August 2025.
  • Birthday Rewards of $5 off voucher with $20 minimum spend during your birthday month.
  • $8 Click & Collect voucher for new app users upon sign-up.
  • Limited time voucher of $15 off with $100 spend till 30 September 2025.  

“The launch of the new mobile app is a key part of Guardian’s digital acceleration journey as we strive to be our customers’ trusted health and wellness advisor. A seamless omnichannel shopping experience empowers us to deliver greater convenience and care anytime, anywhere our customers need us. And this is just the beginning, more features and enhancements are on the way as we continue to innovate around our customers’ evolving health, beauty and wellness needs,” said Guardian Singapore Business Development & Omnichannel Director, Leong Chao Yang.

The Guardian mobile app is now available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

The key visuals for the app are available for download here

About Guardian

Guardian is Singapore’s No. 1 trusted health and wellness retailer, with the largest network of community pharmacists and over 120 stores island wide. Offering a curated range of 9,500 products across more than 850 international and local brands, Guardian is the trusted destination for health, beauty and everyday wellness of our modern customers. Through accessible health services, trusted and professional expertise, and everyday essentials, Guardian empowers customers to embrace wellness with confidence – anytime, anywhere. As a trusted advisor in preventive health and holistic wellness, Guardian is committed to supporting every individual on their personal well-being journey.

OceanX Appoints Florence Tan and Lynette Long to Key Leadership Roles in Partnerships and Public Engagement

Florence Tan and Lynette Long bring strategic, fundraising, and public engagement expertise to accelerate OceanX’s presence and impact in the region

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ocean exploration nonprofit OceanX has strengthened its leadership presence in Singapore with the appointments of Florence Tan as Director of Partnerships, APAC, and Lynette Long as Director of Public Programming under OceanX Education. These key hires expand the organization’s footprint in Asia and strengthen its capacity to build impactful partnerships and deliver high-impact public experiences that connect communities to the ocean.

(Left to right) Lynette Long, Director of Public Programming, OceanX Education; Florence Tan, Director of Partnerships, APAC, OceanX
(Left to right) Lynette Long, Director of Public Programming, OceanX Education; Florence Tan, Director of Partnerships, APAC, OceanX

“At OceanX, our work relies on cross-sector collaboration and engaging communities worldwide in the mission to understand and protect the ocean,” said Mark Dalio, founder and co-CEO of OceanX. “Florence and Lynette each bring decades of experience, deep regional insight, and proven results in building relationships and delivering innovative programming. They are mission-aligned leaders who will help scale our presence and partnerships across Asia and beyond.”

Florence Tan joins OceanX after nearly two decades in philanthropy and advancement, most recently as Deputy Director at Singapore Management University, where she led regional fundraising and engagement efforts. She managed a philanthropic portfolio, working with high-net-worth individuals, foundations, family offices, and government partners to fund student and social impact programs. Her leadership in cross-border engagement, stewardship, and giving circles consistently delivered multi-million-dollar results annually.

“I have always been driven by a desire to build meaningful partnerships that create long-term impact,” said Tan. “OceanX’s ability to bridge science, education and media creates a powerful platform for regional collaboration. I’m proud to help grow its footprint in Asia.”

Prior to SMU, Tan held leadership roles at the Kidney Dialysis Foundation and Singapore Children’s Society. She holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Bradford and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the National University of Singapore.

Lynette Long brings more than 20 years of experience in creative project development, stakeholder engagement, and large-scale immersive experiences. As General Manager and Executive Producer at NEON Global, Long oversaw global touring exhibitions including Jurassic World: The Exhibition and Avatar: The Experience. She has led teams across Singapore, the US, and China, managing multimillion-dollar creative productions from concept to execution while working with brand partners like Universal, Marvel, and Disney.

“There’s a huge opportunity to shift how people engage with ocean conservation,” said Long. “OceanX is well positioned to lead that movement, and I look forward to bringing the ocean to life for communities around the world through OceanX Education.”

Long has also held senior communications roles with the Supreme Court of Singapore, National University of Singapore Faculty of Law, and the Esplanade. She holds a Master of Science in Marketing and a Bachelor of Science in Economics, both from the National University of Singapore.

Tan and Long will help steer OceanX’s strategic expansion in Asia as the organization enters a new phase of public engagement, global missions, and cross-sector collaboration. Their collective expertise in stakeholder engagement, philanthropy, creative production, and regional partnerships will play a vital role in amplifying OceanX’s mission and reach.

For more information about OceanX’s ongoing work, please visit the OceanX website. For media inquiries regarding OceanX, please contact Karuna Tuli at karuna.tuli@oceanx.org.

About OceanX

OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies. For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, and  YouTube.

 

Total Investment of Approx. USD 7.3 Million in Malaria and TB R&D Projects With Partners Including European Vaccine Initiative, University of Copenhagen, and University of Tübingen

TOKYO, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund announced today a total investment of approximately JPY 1 billion (USD 7.3 million1) in four R&D projects for the development of vaccine, drug, and diagnostics for malaria and tuberculosis (TB).2

Investment of JPY 800 million (USD 5.5 million1) in malaria vaccine project

Malaria is a serious infectious disease that affects more than 260 million people and claims approximately 600,000 lives worldwide each year. Over 90% of all malaria cases occur in Africa, with more than 70% of those affected being children under the age of five.3 Malaria is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. While prevention and treatment methods are available, the efficacy of currently available vaccines remains limited, highlighting the urgent need for the development of vaccines with higher efficacy and longer-lasting protection.

To address this challenge, the GHIT Fund has decided to invest JPY 800 million (USD 5.5 million1) in a malaria vaccine development project currently in the preclinical stage. This project is being led by the European Vaccine Initiative, the Research Institute for Microbial Diseases (RIMD) at Osaka University, the University of Copenhagen, the University of Tübingen, Danish biotechnology company AdaptVac, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., and Nobelpharma Co., Ltd.

This investment is a continuation of previous projects supported by GHIT, which has invested a total of approximately JPY 630 million (USD 4.3 million1) from 2013 to 2022. The present project aims to develop a vaccine that prevents the proliferation of malaria parasites during the blood-stage of infection. The vaccine is designed to achieve higher efficacy and longer-lasting protection with fewer doses. By reducing manufacturing costs, the project also aims to improve access to vaccines in malaria-endemic regions.

In addition, the GHIT Fund will invest a total of approximately JPY 260 million (USD 1.8 million1) in the following three R&D projects:
(1) Target research project for malaria diagnostics by Ehime University and Universiti Malaysia Sabah
(2) Target research project for TB drug by the University of Auckland and the University of Tokyo
(3) Target research project for malaria drug by Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), LPIXEL Inc., and University of Dundee

This investment brings four new companies and universities on board. Through collaborations with 190 partners across 39 countries — including 64 Japanese and 126 non-Japanese institutions — we aim to contribute to solving global health challenges and accelerating product development.

Please refer to Appendix 1 for detailed descriptions on these projects and their development stages.

As of July 17, 2025, the GHIT Fund has invested in 37 projects, including 15 discovery projects, 13 preclinical projects, and 9 clinical trials.4 The total amount of investments since 2013 is JPY 39.3 billion (USD 271 million1) (Appendix 2).

1 USD1 = JPY144.81, the approximate exchange rate on June 30, 2025.
2 These awarded projects were selected and approved as new investments from among proposals to RFP2023-002 and RFP2024-001 for the Product Development Platform and the Target Research Platform, which were open for applications from June 2023 to July 2024.
3 WHO: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/malaria
4
 This number includes projects in the registration phase.

The GHIT Fund is a Japan-based international public-private partnership (PPP) fund that was formed between the Government of Japan, multiple pharmaceutical companies, the Gates Foundation, Wellcome, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The GHIT Fund invests in and manages an R&D portfolio of development partnerships aimed at addressing neglected diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases, which afflict the world’s vulnerable and underserved populations. In collaboration with global partners, the GHIT Fund mobilizes Japanese industry, academia, and research institutes to create new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases.
https://www.ghitfund.org/en

Appendix 1. Project Details    

ID: G2024-201

Project Title

Biomanufacture and preclinical development of the blood-stage malaria vaccine
candidate SE36/cVLP

Collaboration

Partners

1. European Vaccine Initiative (Germany)

2. RIMD, Osaka University (Japan)

3. University of Copenhagen (Denmark)

4. AdaptVac (Denmark)

5. University of Tübingen (Germany)

6. Ajinomoto Co., Inc. (Japan)

7. Nobelpharma Co., Ltd. (Japan)

Disease

Malaria

Intervention

Vaccine

Stage

Preclinical

Awarded Amount

JPY 800,715,002 (USD 5.5 million)

Status

Continued project

Summary

[Project objective]

This team’s goal is to fast-track the clinical development of the SE36/cVLP vaccine
candidate and obtain supporting evidence for a safe and efficacious blood-stage
vaccine that could be deployed as a stand-alone or potentially combined in a second-
generation multi-stage malaria vaccine. The main objectives are to:

1.         Manufacture a large GMP batch of SE36

2.         Produce a GMP batch of SE36/cVLP

3.         Conduct a GLP-compliant nonclinical toxicology study for SE36/cVLP + Sepivac
            SWE adjuvant

4.         Prepare clinical trial documentation for the conduct of a phase I/IIa (CHMI) trial
            for SE36/cVLP (+/- Sepivac SWE) to assess safety, immunogenicity, and time-to-
            first episode of clinical malaria in malaria-naïve vaccinated subjects


[Project design]The previous GMP manufacturing process for SE36 was largely based on the E. coli
expression system with modest yield after several chromatography steps. Benefiting
from recent collaborations and new adaptive vaccine technologies, the project team
now proposes to manufacture a larger batch of SE36 using a simplified, high-yield
process with Corynex™, which utilizes Corynebacterium glutamicum. Moreover, to
increase the vaccine immunogenicity, SE36 antigens will be displayed on capsid
virus-like particles (cVLP) ensuring unidirectional and high-density display. A
previously manufactured small lab-scale batch of SE36/cVLP showed that coupling
was stable and that coupled SE36 was highly immunogenic in the mouse model.
Armed with this success, the project team now expands its efforts to manufacture a
larger GMP batch of SE36/cVLP, conduct a GLP-compliant nonclinical toxicology
study and prepare trial documentation to conduct a phase I/IIa trial with this newly
optimised formulation of the SE36 vaccine candidate. A successful completion of
these activities will set the stage for a first-in-human safety, immunogenicity and
efficacy trial.

Project Detail

https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/242/en

ID: T2024-153

Project Title

ZOO-RDT: Validating a novel biomarker and associated reagents for diagnosis of
acute zoonotic malaria in southeast Asia

Collaboration

Partners

1. Ehime University (Japan)

2. Universiti Malaysia Sabah (Malaysia)

Disease

Malaria

Intervention

Diagnostics

Stage

Target Research

Awarded Amount

JPY 64,693,198 (USD 0.4 million)

Status

New project

Summary

[Project objective]

There are no P. knowlesi-specific point-of-care (PoC) tests. Rapid diagnostic tests
based on the pLDH biomarker show high cross-reactivity between P. vivax and P.
knowlesi
making them impossible to distinguish. Current diagnostic practices take
time and delay patient access to treatment. Simple, accessible PoC tools are urgently
required. Identification of P. knowlesi-specific diagnostic markers has been largely
neglected. The serine repeat antigen (sera) multigene family has been extensively
studied in P. falciparum and rodent parasite lines and plays critical roles across the
parasite life cycle. The P. knowlesi Serine Repeat Antigen 3 (PkSERA3) antigen 2
has been identified as a P. knowlesi-specific exposure marker, with laboratory and
population-level evaluations showing no cross-reactivity with P. vivax, a
phylogenetically closely related species. The project team will use this antigen to
develop reagents for a P. knowlesi PoC diagnostic test.


[Project design]Overall aim: Validate novel biomarker(s) and associated monoclonal antibodies for
lateral flow assay development for the diagnosis of acute infections. 

Objective 1: Reagent optimisation: the optimised PkSERA3 ag 2 protein plus two
variants will be used in the generation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). 

Objective 2: Analytical and clinical validation of PkSERA3 Ag2 and variants as
species-specific indicators of acute P. knowlesi infection across epidemiological
zones. 

Objective 3: Assessment of Technical Feasibility in the lateral flow system. The best
performing mAbs will be assayed by ELISA, and further down-selection will lead to
selected mAbs being printed onto test strips. Antibody reagents will be provided to a
diagnostic test developer Contract Research Organization (CRO) to validate the
technical feasibility of integrating the developed mAbs into a lateral-flow RDT.

Objective 4: Stakeholder consultation to understand the preferred test design, and to
inform Product Design and generate evidence for a business case for this novel
malaria RDT.

Target results: Validated P. knowlesi-specific mAb reagent for use in LFA
development.

Project Detail

https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/243/en

ID: T2024-253

Project Title

Harnessing genome mining for novel tuberculosis antibiotics

Collaboration

Partners

1. The University of Auckland (New Zealand)

2. The University of Tokyo (Japan)

Disease

Tuberculosis

Intervention

Drug

Stage

Target Research

Awarded Amount

JPY 100,000,000 (USD 0.6 million)

Status

New project

Summary

[Project objective]

In the short term, this project aims to enhance TB antibiotic discovery by identifying
secondary metabolites that specifically target essential metabolic pathways in M.
tuberculosis
. By focusing on mechanisms absent in mammalian cells, the project
team aims to identify secondary metabolites with selective antimicrobial activity and
minimal side effects in humans. This selectivity is expected to improve patient
experience, compliance, and treatment outcomes. Early identification and testing of
these compounds against purified proteins, M. tuberculosis cells, and human
macrophage infection models will provide critical insights into their efficacy and
potential as new therapeutic agents.

In the long term, this project team’s goal is to translate these research findings into
clinical applications, offering new treatment options for TB patients worldwide. A
key strength of this proposal is this project team’s established expertise and drug
development pipeline, specifically in the TB context, which will be instrumental in
advancing subsequent research and development phases.


[Project design]Despite significant advances in understanding the metabolic features essential for M.
tuberculosis
, developing new antibiotics remains a major challenge. Enzyme
inhibitors often exhibit limited activity against M. tuberculosis, and many bioactive
compounds have unclear modes of action. To overcome these challenges, the project
team will (a) identify secondary metabolites that specifically target key metabolic
pathways in M. tuberculosis, and (b) test these metabolites against purified proteins
and M. tuberculosis cells to assess their effects on bacterial growth and pathogenesis.

Project Detail

https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/244/en

ID: T2024-268

Project Title

Machine learning-based deconvolution of antimalarial drug mechanisms of action
through cell painting of compound-treated Plasmodium falciparum-infected
erythrocytes

Collaboration

Partners

1. Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) (Switzerland)

2. LPIXEL Inc. (Japan)

3. University of Dundee (UK)

Disease

Malaria

Intervention

Drug

Stage

Target Research

Awarded Amount

JPY 99,628,772 (USD 0.6 million)

Status

New project

Summary

[Project objective]

The project ultimately aims to deliver a new high-throughput and information-rich
platform for informing and classifying antimalarial modes of action (MoA) and
highlighting novel compound-induced phenotypes. This proposal seeks to leverage
advances in cellular imaging and machine learning-led pattern recognition. The final
goal is to develop a robust, reproducible method to deliver information on a
compound’s biological impact (whether its MoA or pathway is novel or known) in
synchrony with the confirmation of growth inhibition and thus allow clustering on
both chemistry and biology, potentially saving months in the context of Hit
Generation.


[Project design]The project relies on high-content imaging and subsequent analysis of drug-treated
Plasmodium falciparum parasites. The initial assay development phase will optimise
methodologies for staining, fixation, and imaging of parasite-infected red blood cells,
including both healthy untreated parasites and those treated with a pilot set of
compounds with defined MoA. This will allow preliminary development of artificial
intelligence (AI) models to classify parasite morphology across the 48 hour lifecycle,
as well as the phenotypic impact of drug-treatment. Once treatment and imaging
parameters have been optimised, data collection will be performed with an expanded
set of compounds covering a diverse range of MoA, in order to refine and validate the
development of AI models for pattern recognition. AI models will ultimately be
packaged into a cloud-based, user-friendly application so that images generated by
researchers can be analysed without specialist AI knowledge.

Project Detail

https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/245/en

*All amounts are listed at an exchange rate of USD1 = JPY144.81, the approximate exchange rate on June 30, 2025.

Appendix 2. Investment Overview (as of July 17, 2025)

Investments to date
Total investments: 39.3 billion yen (USD 271 million1)
Total invested projects: 139 (37 active projects and 102 completed projects)

To learn more about the GHIT Fund’s investments, please visit
Investment Overview: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/overview/en
Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfolio/en
Advancing Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/advancingportfolio/en
Clinical Candidates: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/clinicalcandidates/en

For more information, contact:
Nancy Moss at +1-908-606-8940 or nmoss@burness.com
Mina Ohata at +81-36441-2032 or mina.ohata@ghitfund.org

Reshaping Global Lubricant Supply Chains: Trump-Era Tariffs Driving Industry Pivot Toward Asia

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2025 – With the global lubricants industry still adjusting to the lasting impact of U.S. trade policy enacted during the first presidential term of U.S. President Donald Trump, supply chains are undergoing dramatic shifts—and Asia is solidifying its role as the sector’s global hub.

Asian Lubricant Exhibition 2025

While the U.S. tariffs primarily targeted a broad range of Chinese industrial chemicals under Section 301, some specialty additives used in lubricant formulations were affected. In response, U.S. manufacturers have faced increased costs, sourcing uncertainties, and production delays, prompting a re-evaluation of procurement strategies. These disruptions have had ripple effects across the automotive, industrial, and specialty lubricant markets worldwide.

Strategic Realignment: From the West to the East
As regulatory complexity and economic uncertainty mount in the U.S. and European markets, many lubricant producers, OEMs, and blenders are redirecting investment and operational focus toward Asia. The region already accounts for the world’s largest share of lubricant demand and continues to post some of the fastest growth, driven by expanding industrialization and vehicle ownership.
Asia’s strong manufacturing base, growing consumer markets, and expanding infrastructure for lubricant production make it an attractive destination for global expansion. Companies are deepening their presence in countries such as China, India, Malaysia, and Singapore—tapping into local production advantages, aligning with regional OEMs, and building supply chain resilience.

The Asian Lubricant Exhibition 2025: Spotlighting the Industry’s Transformation
The challenges—and potential advantages—of this strategic global shift will take center stage at the Asian Lubricant Exhibition 2025, held September 9–11 at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hall 403, Level 4. As Asia’s only dedicated trade show focused on the lubricants value chain, the event provides a timely platform for addressing trade disruptions, supply chain realignment, and emerging opportunities across the region. The exhibition and exhibitor presentations are open to the public, free of charge. Pre-registration is highly encouraged to be eligible for door prizes and exclusive onsite offers.

Co-hosted by the Asian Lubricants Industry Association (ALIA) and F&L Asia Ltd., the three-day event brings together global players navigating today’s volatile landscape—from base oil producers and additive specialists to blending, packaging, quality and compliance services, logistics, and end-user service providers.
With over 60% of booths already sold, and exhibitors including ExxonMobil, Chevron Oronite, CPC Corporation, Kangtai Lubricant Additives, Kemipex, Patech, Huntsman, Master Fluid, Axel Christiernsson, Metal-Chemie, ML Lubrication, Songwon, Vanderbilt, BRB, Hyrax Oil, and Universal Analytical, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to showcase solutions that address the current challenges of global trade volatility—especially those tied to tariffs and regulatory pressures.

Highlights Include:
  • Exhibitor Presentations spotlighting supply chain innovations
  • Training and networking events such as the Base Oil 101 Training Course and the ALIA Anniversary Dinner
  • Executive Briefings on market forecasts and trade realignment
  • The ALIA Sustainability Session on future-ready lubricant strategies
Join the Conversation on Supply Chain Transformation
Whether you’re a supplier, OEM, blender, technology provider, or logistics expert, this is the moment to engage with Asia’s lubricant leaders and align your strategy with where the market is headed.
For booth bookings, program details, and registration, visit:
Let’s shape the future of lubricants—together in Singapore.

Hashtag: #AsianLubricantExhibition2025 #ALE2025

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