27.6 C
Vientiane
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 687

Hong Kong’s Visionaries Invited to Lead the Conversation at ACES Awards 2025

Wave 2 Nominations Now Open


HONG KONG SAR- Media OutReach Newswire – 25 April 2025 – In a city built on precision, resilience and reinvention, Hong Kong’s corporate leadership is entering a new era—where governance, innovation, and sustainability are not just trends, but imperatives. The Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2025 has opened Wave 2 nominations, calling on Hong Kong-based businesses and leaders to benchmark themselves against Asia’s most rigorous awards platform.

Winners of the 2024 ACES Awards gather in celebration, representing Asia’s most forward-thinking companies across leadership and sustainability.
Winners of the 2024 ACES Awards gather in celebration, representing Asia’s most forward-thinking companies across leadership and sustainability.

Now in its 12th year, the ACES Awards recognises individuals and organisations that deliver performance with purpose and build legacies with integrity.

With 28 ACES Awards earned by Hong Kong-based companies, the city continues to lead in purpose-driven leadership. Among 2024’s honourees:

  • Town Ray Holdings Limited – Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives (Hok Keung Luk)
  • China Merchants Port Holdings Co. Ltd. – Industry Champion of the Year (Xu Song)
  • Henderson Land Development Co. Ltd. – Top Green Companies in Asia (Dr. Lee Ka Kit, Johnny Yu)


“ACES isn’t about popularity or PR—it’s about principles,”
said Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, President of the ACES Awards and CEO of MORS Group. “Hong Kong’s best leaders don’t just move fast—they move with intent, clarity, and conscience.”

The ACES Awards 2025 takes place 27–28 November, shortly after COP30 in Rio de Janeiro—a timely convergence for sustainability champions. The final host city—Bali, Taiwan, or Malaysia—will be announced in June.

Wave 2 closes April 30, with Wave 3 open until June 2025. Categories include Individual Leadership, Corporate Leadership, and Corporate Sustainability.

To nominate or learn more, visit www.acesawards.com.
Hashtag: #ACESAwards2025 #ACESAwards




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

About ACES Awards

The Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards, organised by MORS Group, is a leading platform that recognises businesses and leaders across Asia for their impact in leadership, sustainability, and responsible growth. ACES highlights those driving meaningful change in their industries and communities.

To nominate for the 2025 ACES Awards, contact Rhasvin Sidhu at rhasvin@acesawards.com.

Animon.ai Debuts as World’s First Anime-Specific AI Video Generator

A CreateAI Company, Animon Launches AI Generation Tool from Japan for the World of Anime, Comics, and Games

TOKYO, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Animon (“Animon” or the “Company”) today introduced Animon.ai, the world’s first anime-specific AI video generation platform. Animon.ai was designed in Japan collaborating closely with leading Japanese anime producers to deliver professional-grade performance in generating videos for the Anime, Comics, and Games (ACG) industry. Representing a pioneering milestone as the first native AI video generator tool launched in Japan, Animon.ai is poised to transform the generative AI landscape.

Animon.ai Debuts as World’s First Anime-Specific AI Video Generator
Animon.ai Debuts as World’s First Anime-Specific AI Video Generator

Animon.ai is designed for true anime lovers, offering unlimited video generation for individual creators around the world, including at the individual paid membership level. Rejecting hard-to-understand “token” pricing, Animon.ai’s new subscription model allows users to create as much as their imagination allows. This approach fosters a vibrant global anime creator community by encouraging fresh and compelling content without erecting unnecessary financial or logistical barriers.

Designed for creators at all levels, Animon.ai supports both newcomers crafting their first ACG content and professional directors producing studio-quality videos alike. It is designed to deliver high-quality outputs with dynamic motion, detailed lighting, and narrative depth. Its user-friendly platforms and sophisticated capabilities enhance efficiency, while its commitment to supporting the anime sector cultivates talent and encourages global community expansion.

Watch the launch at link: https://youtu.be/ezgPwhWdcJM

“Our mission is to empower every anime enthusiast with tools that help them express their unique vision—drawing inspiration from masters like Hayao Miyazaki,” said Yuji Maruyama, Animon.ai spokesperson. 

“Developed in Japan alongside CreateAI’s global team and our top anime producers, Animon.ai represents a breakthrough in collaborative innovation, placing the future of Japanese anime firmly into the hands of creators worldwide, offering unlimited iterations for individual users and an inclusive design that empowers everyone—from beginners to experts—to drive forth the anime industry’s growth,” said Cheng Lu, President and CEO of CreateAI.

Following a successful testing phase, Animon.ai is now officially live available at Animon.ai.

About Animon
Animon is a Tokyo-based innovator in anime and technology and a CreateAI company. We are dedicated to seamlessly integrating tradition with modernity to empower creators worldwide.

Animon Media Contact:
pr@animon.ai 

About CreateAI
CreateAI (formerly TuSimple) is a global applied artificial intelligence company with offices in the US, China, and Japan. The Company is developing leading AI technology for a number of end-use applications and pioneering the future of digital entertainment content production, seamlessly blending cutting-edge generative AI technology with the creativity of world-class talent. Our mission is to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in digital storytelling by developing immersive, captivating, and visually stunning experiences that resonate with audiences on a global scale.

CreateAI Media Contact:
Brad Burgess
ICR, LLC
Email: CreateAI.PR@icrinc.com 

LianLian Global Announces Strategic Partnerships with Veem and 12Victory at Money20/20 Asia

Cross-border payments platform outlines global expansion strategy and unveils new real-time remittance and B2B solutions

BANGKOK, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LianLian Global, a flagship brand of Hong Kong-listed digital payments provider Lianlian DigiTech, showcased its advanced payment technologies and scalable cross-border capabilities at the Money20/20 Asia conference held in Bangkok, Thailand from April 22 to 24. The company highlighted its role in enabling global commerce and reaffirmed its commitment to building next-generation financial infrastructure, as it joined the world’s leading fintech firms at one of the industry’s most influential gatherings.

On April 23, LianLian Global formalized strategic partnerships with Veem, a leading B2B cross-border payments platform, and 12Victory, a prominent remittance service provider, at the event. The agreement signings were attended by senior leadership including Tim Shen, CEO of LianLian Global; Marwan Forzley, CEO of Veem, and Chanaporn Poonsuphirun, Chairman and President of 12Victory.

Under the terms of the agreements, LianLian Global and Veem will jointly drive technological synergies and resource optimization to deliver cost-effective, secure, and end-to-end cross-border payment solutions to global B2B clients. In a separate agreement, 12Victory will incorporate LianLian Global’s LGPS (LianLian Global Payout Service) into its remittance platform to facilitate real-time, transparent fund transfers from Thailand to China—supporting B2B, B2C, and C2C transactions through Lianlian’s established global payments infrastructure.

At the summit, Tim Shen, CEO of LianLian Global, and Michele Fung, Head of LianLian Global Hong Kong, joined leaders from top-tier financial institutions to participate in discussions exploring emerging trends and innovations shaping the fintech landscape.


“New e-commerce models are transforming the global payment ecosystem,” said Tim Shen. “Cross-border merchants today operate with unique complexities—small-value transactions at high volumes, dispersed workflows across multiple platforms and currencies, amid varying regulatory requirements. As an infrastructure partner for global trade, we’re addressing these challenges with unified payment solutions that enable merchants to operate seamlessly across markets and manage international capital flows through a single integrated platform.”

LianLian Global, the cross-border payments arm of Hong Kong-listed Lianlian DigiTech, delivers customized financial solutions to meet a wide range of international business needs. Its offerings include cross-border payments, merchant acquiring, global disbursements, and foreign exchange services, serving clients across the e-commerce, financial services, international trade, and education sectors. The company currently supports more than 5.9 million customers worldwide.

Yutong Bus Announces Major Milestone for “Net Zero Forest” Initiative on Earth Day 2025: One Tree Planted per Bus in Operation

Pioneering Sustainability Program Integrates Green Mobility with Ecological Restoration, Reinforcing Leadership in Low-Carbon Innovation

ZHENGZHOU, China, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yutong Bus  (“Yutong”, SHA: 600066), a commercial vehicle manufacturer from Asia, unveiled a landmark achievement in its Net Zero Forest initiative during the 2025 World Earth Day celebrations. As part of its long-term sustainability strategy and ESG-driven corporate social responsibility (CSR) framework, Yutong commits to plant one tree globally for every bus added to the fleet, forging a tangible link between commercial success and environmental stewardship. Building on its 2024 achievements of planting over 36,000 trees in regions including China, Chile, and the UK, the company aims to scale reforestation efforts to 47,000 trees in 2025, with a decade-long roadmap to expand globally.

Yutong teams up with global customers, media representatives and volunteers to plant drought-resistant Haloxylon ammodendron trees in Minqin Desert, China
Yutong teams up with global customers, media representatives and volunteers to plant drought-resistant Haloxylon ammodendron trees in Minqin Desert, China

The Net Zero Forest initiative is designed to address climate change through a Double Carbon model: accelerating the adoption of zero-emission buses while restoring ecosystems via strategic afforestation. By aligning each vehicle sale with direct environmental action, Yutong creates a transparent, sustainable value chain that engages customers, partners, and communities in collective climate efforts.

“Sustainability is not just a goal for Yutong. It’s embedded in our DNA through our corporate commitment to Think Eco, Move Green,” said Jason Huang, Global Brand Director of Yutong Bus. “Linking every bus on the road to measurable ecological impact allows us to visualize the journey from vehicle production to carbon reduction.”

Haloxylon ammodendron trees combat desertification through drought resistance and sand stabilization
Haloxylon ammodendron trees combat desertification through drought resistance and sand stabilization

The 2025 campaign will focus on regions facing urgent ecological challenges with tailored solutions to address local needs. Each project is supported by Yutong’s TEAM ZERO Alliance, a coalition of over 40 global new energy bus operators committed to advancing carbon neutrality. Key innovations underpin the program’s success:

  • “Double Carbon” Model: Combining clean transportation with afforestation to reduce fossil fuel reliance and enhance natural carbon sinks.
  • Long-Term Commitment: A 10-year roadmap to plant millions of trees across the globe, ensuring lasting environmental and social impact.
  • Tech-Driven Accountability: Digital tools like carbon footprint tracking quantify emission reductions, ensuring data-driven optimization.

The Haloxylon ammodendron forest planted by Yutong in Minqin, China. To date, Yutong has planted over 31,000 Haloxylon ammodendron trees
The Haloxylon ammodendron forest planted by Yutong in Minqin, China. To date, Yutong has planted over 31,000 Haloxylon ammodendron trees

Yutong’s unwavering commitment to green leadership fuels its mission to reshape global public transportation through decarbonization and enduring sustainability. Since 2021, Yutong has championed global climate action. At COP26, it showcased zero-emission public transport solutions for the UK. In 2023, its E12 electric bus earned dual certifications from the UK’s Zemo Partnership and UTAC, validating compliance with European standards for energy efficiency and carbon emissions. The 2024 Green Mobility Week in Australia further galvanized public engagement in low-carbon commuting.

The Net Zero Forest initiative builds on this legacy. Since its 2024 pilot, the program delivered localized benefits by halting desertification in Gansu, revitalizing urban ecosystems in the UK, and rehabilitating climate-affected forests in Chile. Beyond ecological gains, the initiative spurs green job creation, advocates for electrified public transit policies, and cements Yutong’s reputation as a sustainability trailblazer.

Explore “Net Zero Forest”green mobility solutions at https://en.yutong.com.

NUS-ISS, PCSC and PCORP Commemorate Strategic Partnership to Elevate Digital Leadership Capabilities among Civil Servants in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NUS-ISS, the Philippines Civil Service Commission (PCSC) and the Private Sector Jobs and Skills Corporation (PCORP) held a ceremonial event today to mark the formal sealing of a Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) signed on 12 February 2025. This symbolic occasion marks the next step in their partnership to enhance the digital leadership competencies of mid-to-senior-level civil servants in the Philippines.

 

From Left to Right - Mr Ramon Jocson, Proponent, PSAC; Attorney. Judith Dongallo-Chicano, Asst. Commissioner, PCSC; Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP; Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr; Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC; Mr Khoong Chan Meng, Chief Executive Officer of NUS-ISS and Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS
From Left to Right – Mr Ramon Jocson, Proponent, PSAC; Attorney. Judith Dongallo-Chicano, Asst. Commissioner, PCSC; Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP; Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr; Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC; Mr Khoong Chan Meng, Chief Executive Officer of NUS-ISS and Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS

Under this agreement, NUS-ISS will conduct the Philippines Civil Service’s Digital Leadership Programme (DLP) in partnership with PCORP and PCSC through the country’s Civil Service Institute (CSI). This initiative aims to support the Philippine government’s national innovation agenda and digital transformation goals.

The DLP started as a pilot initiative, supported by Temasek Foundation, the Ayala Group, and the SM Group, and was designed to upskill mid-level to senior-level public officials in digital leadership.

This collaboration also underscores the strength of the robust and multifaceted bilateral relationship between Singapore and the Philippines. In 2024, both countries commemorated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties and are actively exploring enhanced cooperation in emerging areas such as digitalisation and climate change, reflecting their shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and mutual progress.

The ceremonial event was held at the Malacañang Palace in Manila, Philippines, with the presence of Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS; Attorney. Judith Dongallo-Chicano, Asst. Commissioner, PCSC; and Mr Ramon Jocson, Proponent, PSAC.

The signed MOA was presented to the Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr by Mr Khoong Chan Meng, Chief Executive Officer of NUS-ISS; Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC; and Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP, to mark the formal sealing of the partnership.

Building a future-ready, digitally-enabled civil service

The Philippine Civil Service DLP will be implemented in two phases, with the first phase featuring two pilot sessions in Singapore. During these sessions, government and private sector participants will undergo intensive three-day training conducted by NUS-ISS. 

The pilot sessions will consist of three modules, namely, Digital leadership in the public sector, Leveraging citizen-centricity and design thinking for innovation, and Making better decisions with data.

The sessions aim to provide the participants with firsthand insights into successful digital transformation initiatives in Singapore’s public sector and showcase how digital governance can enhance public service delivery. Through exposure to Singapore’s best practices, the participants will acquire practical skills and actionable strategies to drive meaningful change within the Philippine government.

In the second phase, NUS-ISS will license the programme content to PCSC and conduct Train-the-trainer sessions in Manila, equipping trainers from PCSC, government agencies, and the private sector (Asia Pacific College and Mapua University) to deliver the curriculum nationwide.

A collaborative effort for sustainable impact

Recognising the vital role of digital leadership in public sector transformation and to enhance government service delivery, NUS-ISS, PCSC, and PCORP have committed to leverage their respective strengths and resources to design and implement the Philippine Civil Service DLP.

Established in 1981, NUS-ISS has a proven track record of developing future-ready digital leaders in Singapore and beyond through diverse pathways and programmes tailored to meet the needs of various industries, including the public sector. It will draw upon its deep expertise in digital talent development in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, digital strategy and digital innovation.

Mr Khoong Chan Meng, CEO of NUS-ISS, said, “NUS-ISS brings deep expertise and extensive experience in empowering civil servants with the digital capabilities essential for driving public sector transformation. Through this strategic partnership, we will support the Philippine government in cultivating a strong pipeline of digital-ready leaders. Our outcome-driven training programmes and hands-on workshops will provide civil service leaders with the critical knowledge, practical tools, and forward-thinking strategies needed to accelerate innovation and embed digital excellence across government agencies for lasting impact.”

PCSC, as the central human resource institution of the Philippine government, will oversee the training to ensure that the programme is aligned with the country’s public sector context and national governance priorities. PCORP, a non-profit organisation established by PSAC – Jobs Group, will ensure the programme’s long-term impact with its mandate to bridge public and private sector collaboration to close digital skills gaps. 

“It is an enduring commitment for the Philippine civil service as we build a future-ready, citizen-centric government,” said Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC. “This strategic partnership with NUS-ISS and PCORP marks a pivotal step in equipping our civil servants with world-class digital leadership expertise. By continuously learning from Singapore’s best practices and adapting them to our local context, we are laying a strong foundation for a resilient and innovative public sector. Through sustained collaboration, we will empower generations of public sector leaders with the skills and vision to drive meaningful and lasting change in government service delivery.”

Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP, said, “A digitally empowered civil service is vital to enabling a thriving digital economy and delivering improved public services to citizens. At PCORP, we are deeply committed to our mission of contributing the private sector’s expertise to government initiatives to address critical skills gaps and drive job creation in key sectors. This mission is at the core of everything we do. By equipping public sector leaders with the right digital capabilities, we are not only enhancing government efficiency but also laying the groundwork for broader economic growth and opportunities for citizens in the Philippines.”

To deepen stakeholder engagement and chart the path forward, a National Digitalisation Forum will be convened on 25 April at the CSC Auditorium of Civil Service Commission Headquarters. This forum will serve as a platform for public and private sector leaders to share detailed strategies, exchange insights, and reaffirm their commitment to the initiative. This by-invitation forum will include key attendees from public agencies driving digital transformation, private sector partners aligned with the MOA, and potential trainers from both government institutions and academia who will be instrumental in scaling the programme nationally.

ABOUT NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE (NUS)

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is Singapore’s flagship university, which offers a global approach to education, research and entrepreneurship, with a focus on Asian perspectives and expertise. We have 16 colleges, faculties and schools across three campuses in Singapore, with more than 40,000 students from 100 countries enriching our vibrant and diverse campus community. We have also established more than 20 NUS Overseas Colleges entrepreneurial hubs around the world.

Our multidisciplinary and real-world approach to education, research and entrepreneurship enables us to work closely with industry, governments and academia to address crucial and complex issues relevant to Asia and the world. Researchers in our faculties, research centres of excellence, corporate labs and more than 30 university-level research institutes focus on themes that include energy; environmental and urban sustainability; treatment and prevention of diseases; active ageing; advanced materials; risk management and resilience of financial systems; Asian studies; and Smart Nation capabilities such as artificial intelligence, data science, operations research and cybersecurity.

For more information on NUS, please visit nus.edu.sg.

ABOUT NUS-ISS

Established in 1981, NUS-ISS nurtures digital talent for the industry through graduate education, executive education programmes, consultancy, applied research, and career services. NUS-ISS guides individuals and organisations to bridge future opportunities through a unique portfolio of multiple learning pathways such as blended learning and stackable programmes, leading the way in shaping the next curve of digital excellence. It offers a wide spectrum of programmes in critical industry disciplines, such as digital leadership, software development, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, product management, smart health and digital innovation.

To date, over 200,000 digital leaders and professionals from across 9,647 corporate client organisations, and 8,277 graduate programmes alumni have benefitted from NUS-ISS’ suite of services. Its programmes are delivered by NUS-ISS staff with an average of more than 20 years of industry experience and supported by a strong network of partners. NUS-ISS also works with industry partners and associations locally and globally to co-create a digital learning ecosystem that inspires and shapes solutions for the digital economy.

For more information visit, www.iss.nus.edu.sg

ABOUT PHILIPPINES CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION (PCSC)

The PCSC is the constitutionally mandated central human resource institution of the Philippine government. Established in 1900 and reaffirmed under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the CSC is responsible for promoting meritocracy, integrity, and professionalism within the public sector. It serves as the lead agency in implementing policies, programs, and standards that ensure an efficient, effective, and accountable civil service workforce.

With jurisdiction over more than two million civil servants across national government agencies, local government units, and government-owned and controlled corporations, the PCSC plays a pivotal role in shaping public administration in the Philippines. Through its programs and reforms, the Commission upholds excellence in public service and promotes professionalism, accountability, and good governance across all levels of government.

ABOUT PRIVATE SECTOR JOBS AND SKILLS CORPORATION (PCORP)

A non-profit organisation established by the Private Sector Advisory Council–Education and Jobs Sector Group to facilitate collaboration between the public and private sectors in addressing skills gaps and promoting job creation.

Himel Celebrates Resounding Success at 2025 Global Distributor Conference in Bangkok

BANGKOK, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Himel, a globally acclaimed manufacturer and supplier of electric products, hosted its 2025 Global Distributor Conference at the Millennium Hilton in Bangkok, Thailand. With the theme “Powering Infinity”, this landmark conference not only solidified Himel’s leadership in the electrical market but also reflected Himel’s ambitious vision for the future.

The conference welcomed Himel’s leadership team and valued partners from over 40+ countries. Koon San ANG, Himel’s International Sales Leader, shared Himel’s recent achievement & outlined long-term strategic vision, stating, “Our long-term strategic vision encompasses digital transformation, expansion into new territories, localization initiatives, and collaboration with partners to diversify product offerings. By prioritizing customer needs and fostering trust and loyalty, we aim to build mutual success with our ecosystem.”

Danny WANG, Himel’s Chief Marketing Officer, launched the “Powering Infinity” global campaign, an evolution of the erstwhile Powering Ambitions. “This campaign aims to empower all stakeholders to unlock infinite potential. By uniting partners, customers, and communities, we’ll drive global impact and create boundless opportunities.”

From left: WenJie QI, Himel‘s Overseas Marketing & Service Director, Koon San ANG, Himel's International Sales Leader and Danny WANG, Himel’s Chief Marketing Officer, delivered speeches at the conference.
From left: WenJie QI, Himel‘s Overseas Marketing & Service Director, Koon San ANG, Himel’s International Sales Leader and Danny WANG, Himel’s Chief Marketing Officer, delivered speeches at the conference.

The conference facilitated success case sharing among partners from various business sectors and regions who praised Himel’s marketing efforts for building brand visibility and competitiveness. The event also included a special commendation ceremony, where trophies were awarded to honor the unwavering support of Himel’s distributor community.

Over 150 new product SKUs were displayed, and 6 new series were officially launched during the conference. WenJie QI, Himel’s Overseas Marketing & Service Director,emphasized the company’s customer-centric strategy, stating “HIMEL’s strategy is centred around putting the customer first. We specialize in low-voltage solutions and cater to the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. By prioritizing customer feedback and adapting to local demands, we ensure that our offerings are tailored to meet their and market needs.”

2025 Himel New Product Launch Ceremony
2025 Himel New Product Launch Ceremony

During Gala Cruise dinner by the Chao Phraya River,Koon San ANG thanked again to all distributors and emphasized the vital role of a robust distributor network. “Deep connections with distributors are the bedrock for sustained growth and success in a competitive marketplace. Let’s aim for an exponential growth together.”

The 2025 Global Distributor Conference was a triumph, reaffirming Himel’s commitment to its global network and a future of innovation and growth.

Akeso Announces FDA Approval for Penpulimab-kcqx in Two BLA Indications for Comprehensive Treatment of Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

HONG KONG, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK) (“Akeso” or the “Company”) is excited to announce that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its differentiated PD-1 monoclonal antibody, penpulimab-kcqx, in combination with cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine for the first-line treatment of adult recurrent or metastatic non-keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). FDA also approved penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent for adults with metastatic non-keratinizing NPC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy and with least one other prior line of therapy. Penpulimab-kcqx was developed independently by Akeso, with further development and commercialization managed through a joint venture with Chia Tai-Tianqing Pharmaceutical Group.

This milestone marks penpulimab-kcqx as Akeso’s first internally developed innovative biologic to receive FDA approval. The approval underscores the robust clinical research behind penpulimab-kcqx and marks Akeso’s successful entry into the United States regulatory system for the first time. This achievement highlights the company’s innovative drug development capabilities and its commitment to adhering to the highest international standards in pharmaceutical quality management.

The FDA’s approval of penpulimab-kcqx validates Akeso’s international drug development strategy and expansion capabilities. This approval lays a strong foundation for Akeso’s continued clinical development efforts in the global therapeutics markets.

Penpulimab-kcqx has been approved in China for two indications: 1. first-line treatment of advanced NPC, and 2. second or later line treatment of advanced NPC. The recent FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx offers a new, immunotherapy option for advanced NPC patients in the US.

The FDA approval is based on the international Phase III clinical trial AK105-304 and the pivotal AK105-202 study, which supported the two Biologics License Application (BLA) for penpulimab-kcqx. These studies demonstrated the drug’s clinical benefits and favorable safety profile across  two stages of treatment for metastatic NPC.  AK105-304 is a randomized, double-blind, international Phase III trial that enrolled NPC patients of diverse ethnicities. The data will be presented at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting. Previously, the FDA granted penpulimab-kcqx Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD), Orphan Drug Designation (ODD), and Fast Track Designation (FTD) for NPC treatment, highlighting the critical unmet need for this therapy.

According to the WHO 2020 Global Cancer Statistics, over 133,000 new NPC cases are diagnosed annually worldwide, with more than 70% of the patients presented with locally advanced disease. Recurrent or metastatic NPC has a poor prognosis and limited survival. Penpulimab-kcqx’s FDA approval will expand the number of NPC patients that can benefit from its treatment.

Prof. Chaosu Hu, Principal Investigator of penpulimab-kcqx from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, commented: “This milestone enhances international treatment guidelines for advanced NPC and extends the benefits of China’s innovations to global patients, ultimately reshaping the treatment landscape for metastatic NPC worldwide.”

Prof. Xiaozhong Chen, Investigator of penpulimab-kcqx from Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, added: “The FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx confirms its high efficacy and low toxicity, positioning China’s innovative drug development in alignment with international standards.”

Dr. Yu Xia, Founder, Chairwoman, President & CEO of Akeso, expressed: “We are very excited by the approval of penpulimab-kcqx’s approval in the US FDA for first line and later line NPC.  Beyond reaching our first international regulatory milestone, this approval also provides an important immunotherapy treatment option for patients with NPC in the United States. The FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx not only highlights the quality of our innovation but also underscores Akeso’s focus on delivering treatments for difficult to treat cancers for patients around the world. We are deeply grateful to all the researchers, participants, and patients who have contributed to this success. Akeso will continue to advance first and best in class therapies, including bispecific antibodies and CD47 inhibitors, challenge global standards of care and unlocking the full potential of our pipeline for cancer patients everywhere.”

Forward-Looking Statement of Akeso, Inc.

This announcement by Akeso, Inc. ( 9926. HK) contains “forward-looking statements”. These statements reflect the current beliefs and expectations of Akeso’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that penpulimab-kcqx or other pipeline candidates will obtain the required regulatory approvals or achieve commercial success. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

Akeso does not undertake any obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

Please see Prescribing Information for penpulimab-kcqx at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm when it is posted.

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 24 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 15 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs. Additionally, 7 new drugs are commercially available, and 4 new drugs with 4 new indications are under regulatory review for approval. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin.

Disney’s 20th Anniversary: HKDL Ambassadors Prepare to Pass the Torch

Seeking the Next Ambassador to Continue the Mission of Spreading Magic and Helping Others

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 April 2025 – Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has been a cornerstone of joy and magical memories for 20 years, delighting guests and fans while also dedicating itself to community service. The 2024-2025 Disney Ambassadors Gisele Abejero and Beyan Tse represent the resort, working alongside Disney VoluntEARS to bring Disney magic to those in need, including young patients, underprivileged families, people with disabilities, and minority groups.

Cover Photo (Gisele and Beyan)
Cover Photo (Gisele and Beyan)

As HKDL celebrates its 20th anniversary, the pair and all cast members invite everyone to join the grand celebration starting from June 28. With their term coming to an end, they are also on the search for the next ambassador(s) to continue spreading Disney’s legacy of joy and magic.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Unlocking New Skills
Gisele, who hails from the Philippines, and Beyan, a native Hongkonger, come from vastly different backgrounds and life experiences. They have shown incredible courage in stepping out of their comfort zones to pursue their dreams, shaping who they are today.
Gisele, who has been working at HKDL for 17 years, is the first Disney Ambassador of Filipino descent at HKDL. She began her career at the Entertainment team and showcasing her extensive stage experience in different shows including “The Golden Mickeys”, “Mickey and the Wondrous Book” and “Festival of the Lion King.” She shared, “As a dancer, I rarely speak or interact directly with guests on stage. As Disney Ambassador, I have to frequently engage with different people and even host events. I keep learning and growing. I unlock new skills along the way and discovering a different side of myself.”
Beyan has been a lifelong Disney fan. Previously working behind the scenes in Sourcing, she made the bold decision to step into the spotlight. She recalled, “becoming a Disney Ambassador is the bravest decision I have ever made in my life. Over the past year, I have visited various operational teams, including food & beverage, housekeeping and horticulture, taking on different roles and participating in daily tasks. These experiences have boosted my confidence, and very proud of every professional and passionate cast member.”
Reaching Every Corner of the Community: Spreading Disney Magic
Gisele and Beyan have actively participated in various community service initiatives, supporting Disney VoluntEARS and bringing Disney magic to life through their work. Last year, HKDL collaborated with Heep Hong Society to launch a first-ever and largest pilot program offering real-life social adaptation training for children with special educational needs (SEN). Gisele and Beyan, along with Disney VoluntEARS, engaging in activities such as ordering food at park restaurants and queuing for shopping. This program provides unique training experience for children with SEN, giving them more opportunities to practice and integrate into the community.
As the mother of three children including a daughter with SEN, Gisele shared her experience: “As a mother of an SEN child, I deeply understand the challenges of taking children out. As Disney Ambassador, I aim to raise awareness and support for SEN children through my participation in events, helping them feel more love and care.” Gisele affirmed her commitment to continue participating in related activities even after her term ends. She believes that being a Disney Ambassador is not just a two-year role but a lifelong commitment to supporting both the resort and the community.
Gisele and Beyan also joined Mickey and Minnie Mouse in visiting children at the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital and took part in HKDL’s Christmas toy donation campaign. Additionally, they worked closely with the Make-A-Wish®, creating unique park experiences for wish children. Since 2008, HKDL has made over 340 wishes come true.
Beyan recalled several heartwarming stories from the wish kids: “One little girl, dressed as a princess, met her favorite Elsa, and it felt like the whole world stood still. Her pure smile was truly touching.” Another memorable moment involved a boy with illness who was using a wheelchair. Despite his frail condition, when he saw the beloved Mickey Mouse, he mustered all his strength to lift his hand and give him a high-five, leaving even his parents in awe. “Seeing him completely immersed in the happiness of that moment made me realize the true mission of Disney Ambassadors — to create hope with Disney magic,” Beyan said.
Bridging Connections Through Media: Sharing Disney Fun Facts
Beyond their community service, Gisele and Beyan have been actively sharing park updates and behind-the-scenes moments from their daily live through the official HKDL Ambassador social media accounts. They’ve also produced a series of engaging interactive videos, such as “Ambassador’s Vlog” and “Trivia Game On”. These fun-filled videos highlight little-known Disney trivia, bridging the gap between cast members and guests. The duo happily shared, “Many fans who spot us filming in the park often seize the opportunity to get on camera!”
Speaking of trivia, here’s a question for you: What gift did the Beast give Belle to express his love? You can find the answer on the HKDL Ambassador Instagram and Facebook pages!

Embark on an Extraordinary Journey – Become the Next Disney Ambassador
Gisele and Beyan’s stories showcase how Disney magic transforms live and inspires everyone to believe in the power of dreams and happiness. Their journey as Disney Ambassadors is profoundly meaningful and enriched with unique experiences. Becoming a Disney Ambassador is a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with invaluable experiences, such as participating in professional training and exchanges with global Disney Ambassadors and having the opportunity to attend the D23 Expo in California, interacting with and inspiring countless dreamers.
This year, as HKDL celebrates its 20th anniversary, Gisele and Beyan have the honor of commemorating this significant milestone with everyone. With their two-year term coming to an end this year, they are actively searching for the next ambassador(s). “Passion, positive attitude, and a willingness to embrace new challenges are keys to success!” they shared. The 2026-2027 HKDL Ambassador Program is now open for applications until May 19. All eligible full-time cast members and imagineers with at least two years of work experience at HKDL and fluency in Cantonese or English are invited to apply and embark on this one-of-a-kind journey!

Hashtag: #HongKongDisneylandResort

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