Drive Innovation and Empower the Next Generation Workforce

HONG KONG, May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Construction Industry Council (CIC) yesterday celebrated the official opening of the “Centre for Future Construction” (CFC), marking a significant milestone in Hong Kong’s construction industry development. The ceremony took place at the Hong Kong Institute of Construction – Kowloon Bay Campus, officiated by Ir Joseph LO, Head of Project Strategy and Governance Office, Development Bureau, together with Ir Prof. Thomas HO, Chairman of the CIC, Ir Albert CHENG, Executive Director of the CIC, Prof. Jack CHENG, Chairperson of Centre for Future Construction Project Steering Committee, and Mrs. LO LEE Oi-lin, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Management Board, bringing over 2,000 experts, leaders, government officials, and industry professionals to support the event both online and offline and to celebrate this historic moment.

Spanning over 10,000 square feet, the CFC features five interconnected zones, including the Digital Twin Hub, 4S Hub, AI Hub, Robotic Hub, and Immersive Cave. Each zone showcases advanced construction technologies such as digital twin applications, AI-powered safety solutions, robotics, and Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR) immersive training tools. By fostering collaboration and providing hands-on learning opportunities, the CFC aims to equip young talents with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the evolving construction sector.

The opening ceremony commenced with welcome remarks from Ir Prof. Thomas HO, Chairman of the CIC. He emphasised the importance of embracing the AI era and developing a new quality productive force. “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey to revolutionise the construction industry and prepare our future generations to embrace cutting-edge technologies,” he stated. “We hope that the Centre for Future Construction will be the beacon of innovation for the construction industry in Hong Kong, guiding the way for the talents of the construction industry.”

Ir Joseph LO, Head of the Project Strategy and Governance Office at the Development Bureau, delivered the opening address, “The Government is fully committed to spearheading transformative changes within our industry. In this transformative journey, the CIC has always been our closest partner. The CFC will nurture our new generation and will foster a culture of professionalism for the HK construction industry. So, I call upon everyone to unite our expertise and collaborative efforts to lead our industry into a new era of future construction.” Prof. Jack CHENG, Chairperson of Centre for Future Construction Project Steering Committee, introduced the CFC’s mission to serve as an industry-wide collaborative and learning platform.

The event featured keynote presentations from four industry pioneers, Mr. Kevin O’BRIEN, Chief Executive of Gammon Construction Limited, Mr. Alex KWAN, Chief Executive Officer, Asia of Global Infrastructure Solutions Inc., Mr. Peter LEE, Head of Commercial Business of Microsoft Hong Kong, and Mr. Raymond JIAN, Director and Partner of RoboticPlus. Their insightful sharing reveals how AI can be leveraged to explore the transformative potential of technology by thinking out of the traditional mindsets, building smarter infrastructure, and propelling industry success.

Ir Albert CHENG, Executive Director of the CIC, concluded the event with closing remarks, reaffirming the CIC’s commitment to fostering a digitally advanced and safe construction sector. “We anticipate that the Centre for Future Construction will attract over 24,000 visits annually. These facilities will be utilised in more than 100 of our existing courses, including master classes, advanced diplomas, diplomas, and various short-term courses, providing them with a dynamic environment to explore the future of construction,” he added.

The ceremony was followed by an exhibition, allowing attendees to explore the CFC’s innovative facilities and how the industry can collaborate with the centre and the opportunities for training initiatives.

The CFC aims to empower the workforce of tomorrow by providing hands-on training and fostering partnerships with industry leaders. By integrating advanced technologies and innovative training programmes, the CFC is poised to shape the future of the construction industry, driving productivity and safety.

An Overview of the Centre for Future Construction

The Centre for Future Construction is located on the 3/F of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction – Kowloon Bay Campus, covering over 10,000 square feet and divided into five zones.

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About the Construction Industry Council

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) was formed in 2007 under the Construction Industry Council Ordinance (Cap. 587). The CIC consists of a chairman and 24 members representing various sectors of the industry including employers, professionals, academics, contractors, workers, independent persons and Government officials.

The main functions of the CIC are to forge consensus on long-term strategic issues, convey the industry’s needs and aspirations to the Government, provide professional training and registration services, and serve as a communication channel between the Government and the construction industry.

Please visit www.cic.hk for further details.

SINGAPORE, May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Aiper, a global leading player in cordless robotic pool cleaning, is celebrating the strategic partnership with Fluidra, a global leader in pool equipment and connected solutions in the pool and wellness sector. The USD 100 million investment marks the largest single funding deal in the global robotic pool cleaners to date and was commemorated at a signing ceremony held at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa. Additionally, Singapore has been designated as Aiper’s Global Strategic Hub, playing a central role in coordinating the company’s international resources and operations. 

Already present in 45 countries and stocked in over 7,000 retail stores globally — Aiper has reached 2 million consumers worldwide. As the demand for smart, sustainable home living solutions grows, Aiper’s vision to “Bring Vacation Home” is resonating with pool owners and homeowners alike. 

Leading the Way in AI Driven, Cordless Robotic Cleaning Globally

This partnership launches Singapore as the key anchor of Aiper’s Global Strategic Hub, from which the company will coordinate international operations and accelerate “Singapore+1” regional expansion strategy. By tapping into Singapore’s strengths in geographic advantages, robust industrial infrastructure, and business-friendly environment, Aiper aims to scale its operations globally.

Aiper’s strategic investment of USD 100 million from Fluidra reflects a shared confidence in the company’s vision and innovation capabilities. Amid ongoing strategic alignment, operational independence will be preserved and respective core strengths fully leveraged. The investment will further support Aiper’s advancement in core technologies and accelerate the development of its smart backyard ecosystem.

By leveraging their respective strengths, the two companies will work in close synergy across technology, brand development, and global service networks—advancing the pool cleaning industry and delivering enhanced value to customers worldwide.

While continuing to deepen its presence in the pool cleaning sector and key markets such as North America and Europe, Aiper is accelerating its global expansion into high-potential regions including Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. In the Asia-Pacific region, Aiper has established a comprehensive operational ecosystem—including supply chain, customer service and branding. This ecosystem provides a strong platform for global growth and regional collaboration.

At the signing ceremony, Richard Wang, Founder and CEO of Aiper, remarked: “The partnership between Aiper and Fluidra marks a win-win collaboration and a key milestone in Aiper’s global expansion journey. Looking ahead, we will continue to drive progress in product innovation, brand influence, and global service capabilities—always placing user needs at the center. Our goal is to solve real-world cleaning challenges and empower customers to enjoy a truly smart, worry-free, and effortless outdoor living experience by leaving the hard work to Aiper.”

For more information about Aiper visit aiper.com and follow Aiper on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.

About Aiper

Aiper is the global pioneer of cordless robotic pool cleaning technology and a leader in smart yard product solutions. Through its “Bring Vacation Home” campaign, Aiper empowers homeowners to transform their backyards into a personal vacation retreat with the help of innovative, smarter, and greener product solutions that effortlessly handle pool and lawn maintenance to save time, money, and energy. From state-of-the-art pool cleaners to intelligent irrigation systems, Aiper delivers a comprehensive backyard ecosystem of products that simplify outdoor maintenance so users can enjoy more leisure and fun. Renowned for excellence, Aiper products have garnered prestigious awards, including the Red Dot Design Award, the iF Design Award, and editorial awards from USA Today and TWICE. Additionally, Aiper has been recognized as a CES Innovation Awards honoree in 2023, 2024, and 2025, underscoring its commitment to pioneering smart yard solutions.

SINGAPORE, May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Golden Agri-Resources (GAR) today published its Sustainability Report 2024, covering a year that saw the company establish the scale and scope of its climate ambitions while continuing to deliver on core commitments to tackle deforestation, enhance traceability and promote thriving, resilient agricultural communities.

GAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Franky O. Widjaja, explained how the company’s sustainability foundations have helped GAR to navigate a year of global challenges, from economic shifts and evolving regulatory demands to extreme weather conditions.

“The world is changing, and so is the future of agribusiness,” he said. “At GAR, sustainability isn’t just a part of our business strategy; it is our business strategy. We believe that sustainability leadership starts with action; with choices that reflect our values and shape a better future.”

For the first time, GAR has published a double materiality assessment, addressing both the company’s impact on environmental and social issues and how these topics may influence GAR’s operations, long-term resilience, and financial performance. In addition to preparing the company for upcoming reporting requirements, this assessment validates GAR’s priorities for action on sustainability.

Widjaja continued: “As extreme weather and regulations intensify, investing in responsible agriculture matters more than ever. Our 2024 theme of Growing Together with Purpose reflects a year of evolution for GAR’s sustainability policies and practice. Over the past year, we have set bold targets for emissions reduction by 2030 and developed a new sustainability framework, Collective for Impact, that provides a clear path forward for the next stage of our sustainability journey – a journey we’re taking together with partners, suppliers and smallholders.”

Notable developments include:

Launching Collective for Impact

Since 2015, the GAR Social and Environmental Policy (GSEP) has been the foundation of the company’s sustainability commitments, implemented in its own operations and across the company’s palm oil supply chain in Indonesia.

Now, GAR has launched a new framework, Collective for Impact, marking the next phase of its sustainability ambitions. Covering three key areas: Sourcing Responsibly, Caring for our Planet, and Empowering People, this new business strategy extends beyond GAR’s Indonesian palm oil supply chain to include its entire business and value chain, operationally and geographically.

Anita Neville, GAR’s Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer, described how this framework builds on the company’s existing initiatives to address critical areas for action. “It has never been more urgent to act on climate change, eliminate exploitation, and protect natural ecosystems,” she said.

“We know that what got us here will not necessarily get us where we want and need to go,” she continued. “Collective for Impact strengthens our resilience, creates long-term value and builds trust to keep us ahead of global expectations. This is not just a sustainability vision; it is a business strategy that touches every part of GAR.”

Advancing Net Zero Commitments

In 2024, GAR set bold 2030 targets to cut absolute emissions as a milestone on its pathway to net zero emissions by 2050. The company will cut Forest, Land, and Agriculture (FLAG) emissions by 30% and non-FLAG emissions by 42% from its 2022 baseline.

Last year, GAR reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions from its direct operations by 3% through continued implementation of No Deforestation, No Peat and No Exploitation (NDPE) policies, coupled with energy efficiency initiatives and increased renewable energy use.  

However, GAR’s total emissions increased by 7% year on year, from 32.7 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in 2023 to 35 million tonnes in 2024, driven by a 10% increase in Scope 3 emissions. These supply chain emissions account for 79% of GAR’s total carbon footprint, underscoring the critical role of ongoing supplier engagement and collecting first party emissions data; two core pillars of the company’s Scope 3 reduction efforts.

Leading in Transparency and Traceability

GAR has continued to map its Indonesian palm oil supply chain and has now reached 99.5% Traceability to the Plantation (TTP). The company is intensifying efforts to address the final 0.5% of TTP, addressing variability within its supply chain and extending its partnerships with smallholders to implement traceability while supporting them to improve yields and livelihoods.

Elsewhere, the company has successfully expanded its traceability commitments to its other commodities, implementing 100% Traceability to the Mill (TTM) for soy, sugar, sunflower and coconut globally.

The company has also launched the blockchain-powered SmartTrace system, giving users a window on the full journey of a palm oil product from plantation to purchase. Together with satellite monitoring, mapping, and supplier transformation initiatives, GAR is continuing to ensure responsible production across its supply chain, helping customers to prepare for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and future regulations.

Action for Communities

GAR’s Bright Future Initiative continues to help communities build better livelihoods. In 2024, the company supported 189 projects, and empowering 113 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with skills from farming and technology to operations training, helping them grow and reach new markets.

About Golden Agri-Resources Ltd (GAR)

GAR is a leading fully-integrated agribusiness company. In Indonesia, it manages an oil palm plantation area of more than 500,000 hectares (including plasma smallholders) as of 31 March 2025. It has integrated operations focused on the technology-driven production and distribution of an extensive portfolio of palm-based products throughout its established international marketing network.

Founded in 1996, GAR was listed on the Singapore Exchange in 1999 and has a market capitalisation of US$ 2.6 billion as of 31 March 2025. Flambo International Limited, an investment company, is GAR’s largest shareholder, with a 50.56% stake. In addition, GAR’s subsidiary, PT SMART Tbk was listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 1992.

As an integrated agribusiness, GAR delivers an efficient end-to-end supply chain, from responsible production to global delivery. In Indonesia, its primary activities include cultivating and harvesting oil palm trees; the processing of fresh fruit bunch into crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernel; refining CPO into value-added products such as cooking oil, margarine, shortening, biodiesel and oleo-chemicals; as well as merchandising palm products globally.

GAR’s products are delivered to a diversified customer base in over 110 countries through its global distribution network with shipping and logistics capabilities, destination marketing, onshore refining and ex-tank operations. GAR also has complementary businesses such as soybean-based products in China, sunflower-based products in India, and sugar businesses.

• Valvoline Global is set to make its partnership debut with FIFA’s flagship tournament.
• The sponsorship reflects the rapid international expansion of America’s first engine oil brand as it approaches its 160^th anniversary.
• Valvoline Global will engage fans through various creative retail and experiential activations in the build-up to the global showpiece event.

LEXINGTON, Ky., May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Valvoline™ Global, a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, has been announced as an Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Supporter ahead of the global extravaganza set to take place across Canada, Mexico and the United States next year.

Valvoline™ Global, a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, has been announced as an Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Supporter ahead of the global extravaganza set to take place across Canada, Mexico and the United States next year.

Valvoline Global’s sponsorship of the FIFA World Cup 26 builds on its rapid international growth. As the company approaches its 160th anniversary with sales in more than 140 countries and territories, Valvoline has become one of the fastest growing lubricants brands worldwide.

Set to be the biggest and most inclusive edition of the FIFA World Cup™, the 2026 tournament will feature 48 national teams from across the globe competing in 104 matches in 16 Host Cities throughout Canada, Mexico and the United States. The company plans to offer experiences for fans in select Host Cities and exclusive promotions with key Valvoline retail partners, with more details to be released later this year.

“The FIFA World Cup 26 will bring people together like nothing else – through passion, performance and the power of possibility,” said Valvoline Global CEO Jamal Muashsher.

“As we approach our 160^th anniversary, Valvoline Global is proud to be part of an event that celebrates not just the greatness of the game, but the potential within us all to move the world forward.”

This will be the first time that Valvoline Global has been involved in a sporting event of such scale. The company’s partnership with FIFA underscores its commitment to world-class innovation and outstanding service, objectives that are shared by both organizations.

“We are thrilled to welcome Valvoline Global, a respected global force in the automotive and industrial sectors, as an official supporter of this historic tournament,” said FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström.

“The company’s innovative vision aligns with the dynamic spirit of the FIFA World Cup. Valvoline Global’s commitment to driving progress through cutting-edge solutions resonates with our values, and we are excited to embark on this journey together.”

To learn more about Valvoline Global’s partnership with the World Cup 2026, click here.

About Valvoline™ Global Operations
Valvoline Global, the creator of the world’s first branded motor oil is powering the next generation of mobility through innovation for customers in 140+ countries and at more than 80,000 points of distribution. A worldwide leader in future-ready automotive and industrial solutions and best-in-class services for partners around the globe, our legacy of firsts spans nearly 160 years.

With solutions available for every engine and drivetrain, from high-mileage and heavy-duty to electric vehicles, Valvoline Global is inventing the way forward for mobility and beyond, expanding its heat transfer solutions to high performance computing.

Together with our parent company Aramco, one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, we are driving unparalleled product innovation and sustainable business solutions for what the future holds – on and off the road.

Learn more at www.ValvolineGlobal.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.™ Trademark, Valvoline Global or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.

About The FIFA World Cup 26™
The FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the biggest sporting event ever, with three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams and 104 matches uniting an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format. With more countries, cities, teams, and games, the FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the most inclusive edition of the competition, engaging millions of fans across unique stadiums and billions worldwide. The tournament will take place in June and July 2026. For the latest FIFA World Cup 26™ information, please visit FIFA.com/WorldCup. For media representatives wishing to stay up to date on all things 2026, please register via the FIFA Media Hub.