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HKSTP Presents ‘Global Connect – Global Innovation Exchange’

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Advertorial Desk
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Novel Network Set Out to Connect I&T Ecosystems


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) celebrated the launch of ‘Global Connect – Global Innovation Exchange (GIE),’ a platform that creates a pull for innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystems from the World to Hong Kong, to pour collective efforts into maximising exposure and impact of emerging startups and solutions.

Representatives of consulates and chambers of commerce from 17 countries were in attendance in supporting the cause of the ‘Global Innovation Exchange’ network.
Representatives of consulates and chambers of commerce from 17 countries were in attendance in supporting the cause of the ‘Global Innovation Exchange’ network.

The GIE was designed to bridge for China-HK-International with I&T developments, where year-long international engagement activities are in the works, including a curated series of country-and market-focused networking events, with UK, France, and Germany lined up from April to June, as well as success story sharing sessions, opportunity overviews, and potential partnership projects examinations, building as a two-way gateway enabling overseas innovators leverage the city as a springboard into the vast opportunities in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) opportunities, while supporting companies moving from the Chinese Mainland to Hong Kong and onward to international markets.

Representatives of 17 countries were in presence, apart from local bodies, in supporting the cause that tech ventures are to be introduced to markets overseas, and vice versa. Maurits ter Kuile, Consul General of the Netherlands in Hong Kong and Macao, stated: “Hong Kong is an interesting spot for Dutch companies that are looking to explore the Chinese market. Language, regulations, taxes and an international orientation, are part of the attraction. As a Dutch government body that is looking to support them, we would say that the GIE looks like an appealing concept to give them a leg up.”

Panel discussions on Hong Kong’s unique position on the world stage as a multicultural anchor for the flow of capital in and out of Asia, echoed the notion. Johannes Hack, Chairman of European Chamber of Commerce, said “One of the challenges when setting up a partnership is understanding the other side’s value drivers. Only when you truly match what each side expects can the joint business flourish. Hong Kong is an excellent place to establish common ground and HKSTP is a great partner to support finding a shared vision.”

Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said “We introduced ‘Global Connect – Global Innovation Exchange’ with heart full of confidence that it will bring convergence of all efforts under one platform, so that international networks, delegations, and I&T communities are able to connect better with more seamless access to even broader resources.”

The Network represented not an event, but an enunciation of commitment to contribute in driving an influx of cross-border business matching and investment opportunities, further strengthening the city’s appeal as an international I&T hub, and continuing the momentum of technological advancement in the GBA and beyond.Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

HKSTP

More information about HKSTP is available at .

Thailand Expands Support to Laos with 30 Scholarships

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Phoudasack Vongsay
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Officials from Thailand and Laos meeting on education cooperation and scholarship programs
The 26th Lao-Thai Technical Cooperation Meeting held on 25–26 March in Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos for Thai. (Photo by Lao National Radio)

Thailand will provide 30 master’s degree scholarships each year to Lao students, as both countries step up education cooperation under a new agreement. 

Officials announced the initiative at the 26th Lao-Thai Technical Cooperation Meeting held on 25–26 March in Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, aiming to support skills development in Laos and strengthen long-term ties.

Thailand will also deliver 20 short training courses annually and expand programs under multilateral cooperation. Officials said these initiatives will help Lao students build skills that support national development.

Both sides reviewed progress under the 2023–2025 plan, which covered 35 projects across agriculture, education, health, trade, tourism, environment, and public services.

They agreed to expand cooperation under a new 2026–2028 plan.

The upcoming projects will also align with Laos’ 10th five-year socio-economic development plan and focus on supporting national growth priorities. 

Laos and Thailand noted that these efforts contribute directly to Laos’ goal of graduating from Least Developed Country status and advancing its long-term development targets.

 

Prudential launches more affordable Integrated Shield Plan riders with additional benefits

By
Advertorial Desk
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Premiums for the new supplementary plans, PRUExtra Care series, are at least 30 per cent lower compared to the previous suite of riders; new critical illness and retrenchment benefits added


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – Prudential Singapore (“Prudential”) has launched a refreshed suite of Integrated Shield Plan (“IP”) supplementary plans (“riders”) that provide comprehensive medical protection at lower premiums. The three new riders are at least 30 per cent more affordable than the previous suite across all age groups and plan types, with some having even larger differences.

In particular, PRUExtra Preferred Care, the new rider for Prudential’s preferred list of private healthcare institutions, is at least 45 per cent more affordable across all age groups compared to its previous corresponding rider, with some groups seeing a 55 per cent difference.

The three new riders – PRUExtra Premier Care, PRUExtra Preferred Care, and PRUExtra Plus Care (known as the “PRUExtra Care series”) – replace Prudential’s previous suite of riders, and align with the new rider requirements announced by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in November 2025.

PRUExtra Premier Care is a rider for private healthcare institutions, PRUExtra Preferred Care is a rider for Prudential’s preferred list of private healthcare institutions under the PRUPanel Connect programme, and PRUExtra Plus Care is a rider for restructured hospitals (up to Class A wards).

The PRUExtra Care riders offer new benefits including additional policy year limits of up to $100,000 if hospitalisation is due to critical illness, and a 12-month premium waiver during retrenchment.

Dr Sidharth Kachroo, Chief Health Officer, Prudential Singapore, said: “By balancing more affordable premiums with meaningful enhancements, the PRUExtra Care riders lower the barrier to comprehensive medical protection for individuals. It also supports the long-term sustainability of private healthcare protection for customers in Singapore.”

IP main plans offer broader coverage by giving individuals more choice, including higher ward classes, access to private healthcare, and the flexibility to choose their doctor. Prudential’s riders complement its IP main plans by providing additional coverage for out-of-pocket expenses and treatments that MediShield Life and IP main plans may exclude, including coverage for non-cancer drug list treatments and non-listed cell, tissue and gene therapy products (CTGTP).

Dr Kachroo added: “Everyone wants peace of mind that they are protected against large hospital bills, and this fortunately is covered for citizens and permanent residents by MediShield Life in Singapore. Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) add value by providing individuals with a wider choice in the type of care they receive. When coupled with a rider, it expands that set of options and the breadth of coverage for the consumer, especially those who want private care. For foreigners who don’t have MediShield Life, IPs provide access to more healthcare options while they reside in Singapore.”

Enhanced critical illness limits and new retrenchment benefit

A critical illness (CI) diagnosis often requires intensive medical treatments and prolonged recovery periods. In view of rising incidences of CIs such as cancer[1], heart attack[2], and stroke[3] in Singapore, Prudential has introduced an early-to-late CI benefit in its PRUExtra Care series. Should a customer be hospitalised or require surgery due to a covered early, intermediate, or late-stage CI, their policy year limit will be increased by up to $100,000.[4]

Dr Kachroo said: “Our PRUExtra Care customers get up to $100,000 added to their policy year limits should they be hospitalised due to critical illness. Managing a critical illness usually involves complex treatments and repeated procedures, which can quickly put pressure on customers’ annual limits. By increasing policy year limits for early to late-stage critical illnesses, they can be assured that their coverage can keep pace with their treatment needs, allowing them to focus fully on recovery and healing.

“We also recognise that health security is tied to financial stability. An unexpected job loss can make it challenging for customers to maintain regular insurance premium payments, and result in a lapse in health protection when it’s needed most. To prevent this, we have introduced a retrenchment waiver benefit to ease their financial burden and give them some time to get back on their feet.”

Under the new retrenchment waiver benefit for PRUExtra Premier Care​ and PRUExtra Preferred Care customers, those who remain unemployed for a continuous period of six months can apply for a waiver on their rider premiums for the next 12 months. The waiver continues to apply even if the customer secures new employment during the waiver period.

More affordability with use of panel providers and no-claim discount

Customers with PRUExtra Premier Care who are treated by panel[5] and extended panel specialists at panel healthcare institutions can keep their premium level the same at the next policy renewal under the claims-based premium pricing framework.[6]

In addition, PRUExtra Premier Care customers enjoy a 20 per cent discount (“PRUWell Reward”) on their standard level premium (the lowest premium tier within their age band) when their policy is issued with no special terms and conditions, as well as at their next policy renewal if no claims are made.

Importance of reviewing protection needs with a financial representative

As individuals move through different life stages, their healthcare needs and financial circumstances can change. Customers are encouraged to review their protection with a financial representative to assess their overall needs and determine the appropriate level of coverage before making any decision to downgrade or drop their riders.

Dr Kachroo said: “We understand that customers need to strike a balance between premium affordability and protecting themselves from potentially high medical costs in the future. While they may enjoy immediate cost savings when they switch to a plan that offers lower premiums, they also need to consider what they might need to pay in cash from their own savings when they require hospitalisation given that the deductible is no longer covered and the co-payment cap has increased. This is a personal choice, and our role as an insurer is to ensure that our customers fully understand the coverage and benefits that they enjoy with their plans, as well as the implications of downgrading or dropping coverage, so that they can make an informed decision.”

[1] Between 1968-1972 and 2019-2023, the crude incidence rate (CIR) of cancer approximately tripled for males and quadrupled for females. Source: https://www.nrdo.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/default-document-library/singapore-cancer-registry-annual-report-2023.pdf?sfvrsn=a4703e8e_2

[2] The number of acute myocardial infarction episodes increased from 9,124 episodes in 2012 to 13,137 episodes in 2022. Source: https://www.nrdo.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/default-document-library/smir-annual-report-2022_web_final.pdf?sfvrsn=31b0f9c1_1

[3] The Singapore Stroke Registry showed that the number of strokes increased from 6,143 episodes in 2011 to 9,680 episodes in 2021. Source: https://www.nrdo.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/default-document-library/ssr-annual-report-2021_web.pdf?sfvrsn=7d63ee29_0

[4] Extra Cover for Early to Late Critical Illness benefit​:
PRUExtra Premier Care: $100,000 additional limit per policy year​
PRUExtra Preferred Care: $100,000 additional limit per policy year​
PRUExtra Plus Care: $50,000 additional limit per policy year​

[5] To qualify for a panel claim, treatment must be received at a private panel healthcare institution where the attending doctor is listed as a participating specialist, as indicated in the PRUPanel Connect listing on this page: https://www.prudential.com.sg/ppc-specialists

[6] For more information on claims-based premium pricing, please visit: https://www.prudential.com.sg/products/health-insurance/medical/claims-based-pricing

Hashtag: #PrudentialSingapore




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

About Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd (Prudential Singapore)

Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd is one of the top life and health insurance companies in Singapore, serving the financial and protection needs of the country’s citizens for 95 years. As at 31 December 2025, it has S$66.3 billion funds under management. The company has an ‘AA’ Financial Strength Rating from leading credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s and delivers a suite of well-rounded product offerings in Protection, Savings and Investment through multiple distribution channels including a network of 5,400 financial representatives.

Allianz Cyber360 Protect: Providing Practical Protection for Digital Lifestyle Risks

By
Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As online scams and e‑commerce disputes continue to rise in Singapore, Allianz Insurance Singapore is helping consumers stay protected against these growing risks through its digital lifestyle protection plan, Allianz Cyber360 Protect.

With phishing, smishing, and unauthorised transactions becoming increasingly common, many consumers are finding themselves financially exposed – particularly when reimbursements from financial institutions or digital platforms are limited. At the same time, online shoppers are increasingly reporting issues such as non-delivery, damaged items, or receiving the wrong products from sellers.

Allianz Cyber360 Protect provides practical protection for these everyday digital risks.

Practical Protection for Today’s Digital Lifestyle

Allianz Cyber360 Protect helps customers recover money lost to specific fraudulent transactions, such as those resulting from phishing, smishing or the unauthorised use of stolen payment cards. The plan also covers essential incident‑related expenses such as administrative fees, transport, and deductibles that financial institutions do not reimburse.

The coverage also extends to common online shopping problems, offering reimbursement when items fail to arrive, arrive damaged or incorrect, or go missing during a return.

Allianz Cyber360 Protect is available in two tiers:

  • Gold: Up to S$25,000 in banking protection, with shopping protection for one event per year.
  • Platinum: Up to S$60,000 in banking protection — one of the highest limits locally — with shopping protection for up to three events per year.

A Simple Way to Feel More Secure Online

“Digital safety should not be complicated – it should be accessible,” said Hicham Raissi, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz Insurance Singapore. “Allianz Cyber360 Protect gives Singaporeans clear, meaningful protection for the things they already do every day, from banking to shopping. Our goal is to offer reassurance and real support when things go wrong.”

To celebrate the launch, Allianz Insurance Singapore is offering a limited time promotion from 1–12 April 2026. Customers who purchase an Allianz Cyber360 Protect plan directly from the Allianz website can enjoy 20% off for both Gold and Platinum plans, with Platinum plans receiving an additional S$20 digital voucher. Terms and conditions apply.

Learn more at https://www.allianz.sg/individual-solutions/allianz-cyber360-protect.html

Protected up to specified limits by SDIC.

About Allianz Insurance Singapore

At Allianz Insurance Singapore, we aim to secure the future and create a positive impact on society and the environment by leveraging our expertise in risk management. As we work toward strengthening our position as one of Singapore’s leading risk solutions providers, we deliver innovative and customer‑focused protection solutions for individuals, SMEs, and mid‑corporate clients – spanning Motor, Home Content, Travel, Personal Accident, Cancer, Hospital Income, and a comprehensive suite of commercial insurance offerings.

ViewSonic Launches Future-Ready Smart Workspace Subscription Plan in Malaysia

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Advertorial Desk
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SUBANG JAYA, Malaysia, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ViewSonic Corp, a leading global provider of visual and EdTech solutions, today announced the launch of its Future-Ready Smart Workspace Subscription Plan in Malaysia, designed to empower businesses and educational institutions with cutting-edge display solutions through a cost-effective and flexible model.

Tailored to support Malaysia’s growing demand for digital transformation, this subscription plan provides access to premium display technologies without the burden of high upfront costs. Customers can choose from a variety of high-performance models, including ViewBoard Interactive Flat Panels (IFP) 41 Series, ranging from 65-inch to 86-inch, and the Foldable 138″ All-in-One LED displays.

A key highlight of the program is the 0% installment plan for 12 months. For organizations requiring greater flexibility, 24-month and 36-month subscription options are also available, ensuring access to advanced collaboration and presentation tools for a wider range of users.

Key Benefits of the Subscription Plan include:

Hassle-Free, Subscription-Style Experience
Simply subscribe and leave the rest to us—from delivery and installation to maintenance, ICT lifecycle support, managed services, refurbishment, and logistics.

Full Ownership at the End of the Term
Gain long-term value with device ownership transferred upon completion of the subscription.

Ready-to-Use, Complete Solution
Comes with complimentary accessories, including a slim trolley cart and WiFi module, so you can start immediately.

Free Delivery & Professional Installation
Enjoy smooth and reliable setup with no additional cost (within Klang Valley).

Peace of Mind with Extended Warranty
3-year warranty on-site service.

Continuous Support & Managed Services
Benefit from ongoing technical support and proactive service management throughout the entire lifecycle.

Ongoing Training & Enablement
Complimentary online training sessions (three times per year) to maximize usage, productivity, and ROI.

“In today’s environment, organizations are increasingly seeking flexible and scalable solutions to support evolving workplace and learning environments,” said Mr. Chaw Foo Hong, Country Manager of ViewSonic Malaysia. “Our Smart Workspace Subscription Plan allows customers to adopt advanced display technologies without heavy capital expenditure.”

ViewSonic’s Smart Workspace solutions enable engaging and efficient user experiences across business and education environments. Its advanced interactive displays support intuitive collaboration with EDLA-certified Android systems, high-performance processors, immersive audio capabilities, and seamless wireless content sharing, while the Foldable All-in-One LED display provides large-scale, impactful visuals with flexible deployment for a wide range of settings.

As organizations navigate economic uncertainty and prioritize smarter spending, this program reflects ViewSonic’s continued commitment to supporting digital transformation across workplaces and classrooms by delivering scalable, future-ready solutions.

Businesses, educators, and organizations in Malaysia are invited to book a free demonstration and consultation to experience the solutions firsthand.

ViewSonic flexible subscription program for Interactive Flat Panel and All-in-One LED solutions, supported by ICT Zone Ventures Berhad through its technology financing. For more information, please contact: 03-5036 0468 or email to Sales.MY@viewsonic.com.

OceanX Announces A Shared Voyage: Joint U.S.-China Student Ocean Exploration and Education Program

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Advertorial Desk
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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – OceanX today announced A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026, a joint U.S-Chinese goodwill mission that will bring together 10 American and 10 Chinese early-career ocean scientists, students, and instructors in pursuit of their shared goal to better understand the ocean and each other. OceanX is the ocean exploration, science, and education initiative founded by Ray and Mark Dalio. This initiative will be the first voyage of OceanX’s flagship research and media vessel, OceanXplorer, to China, starting in Hong Kong on March 29 and concluding in Shanghai on April 8, 2026.

The mission is an extension of the 42-year relationship Ray Dalio has had with China and its people, and it is delivered in collaboration with the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA), the Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO), and the China-U.S. Exchange Foundation (CUSEF). The mission’s goals are to promote high quality people-to-people exchanges between nations, advance ocean literacy and scientific understanding, and equip participants with the skills to communicate the importance of our shared ocean to broader audiences.

Expanding Access to Ocean Science and Education

The China 2026 program represents a milestone in OceanX’s global engagement efforts, creating new opportunities for students and researchers to access hands-on learning at sea. Participants from the United States and China will take part in a structured program designed to build practical knowledge, develop interpersonal connections, and strengthen individual capabilities in ocean science, operations, and communication.

“At this time of great conflict in the world, I believe more than ever in the power of people-to-people exchanges to create mutual understanding” said Ray Dalio, Founder of OceanX. “Understanding the ocean is a shared interest for both the U.S. and China—and for the scientists and students who are on this joint mission. It is a thrill to see them working together.”

Hands-On Learning Across Science, Operations, and Media

The program delivers a structured curriculum that combines lectures, workshops, and applied learning experiences across three focus areas:

  • Marine Exploration: Ocean data collection methods, ecosystem observation, and introductions to oceanographic research tools
  • Operations: Life aboard a research vessel, including equipment demonstrations such as ROV operations, water sampling, and microscopy
  • Media & Communication: Science communication and media production training to support clearer public understanding of ocean issues

Participants will develop individual and small-group projects as part of the program, focused on applying knowledge gained throughout the voyage. They will also forge new connections and build mutual understanding with their peers.

“Understanding the ocean requires both scientific insight and the ability to communicate it clearly,” said Vincent Pieribone, Co-CEO and Chief Science Officer of OceanX. “This program is designed to give participants exposure to the tools, technologies, and storytelling approaches that are shaping how ocean science is conducted and shared.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Ocean Leaders

By combining advanced marine technology, scientific research, and immersive storytelling, OceanX is working to broaden access to ocean discovery and inspire future generations to engage with ocean science.

“A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026 represents an important opportunity to support ocean education and public awareness,” said Ms. Lyu Tin, director of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA).

“This initiative highlights the importance of continued investment in ocean science education and capacity building,” said Prof. Huang Wei, Chinese Chief Scientist for the mission and research at Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO).

A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026 supports OceanX’s mission to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential through science and education, while advancing ocean literacy and long-term stewardship.
Hashtag: #OceanX

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

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 and follow OceanX on , , (formerly Twitter), , , and .

XPENG Announces Vehicle Delivery Results for March and First Quarter 2026

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Advertorial Desk
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GUANGZHOU, China, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — XPeng Inc. (“XPENG” or the “Company,” NYSE: XPEV and HKEX: 9868), a leading global AI mobility technology company, today announced its vehicle delivery results for March and the first quarter of 2026.

In March 2026, XPENG delivered a total of 27,415 vehicles, representing an 80% increase over the prior month. In the first quarter of 2026, XPENG delivered 62,682 vehicles.

On March 25, 2026, XPENG introduced a three-year strategy for Latin America and officially entered the Mexican market, marking a major milestone in its global expansion. Under this strategy, the Company plans to launch both pure electric and range-extended electric models in 2027, laying the groundwork for broader market coverage and targeting a leading position in the region by 2028.

About XPENG

XPENG is a leading Chinese Smart EV company that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets Smart EVs that appeal to the large and growing base of technology-savvy middle-class consumers. Its mission is to become a smart technology company trusted and loved by users worldwide. In order to optimize its customers’ mobility experience, XPENG develops in-house its full-stack advanced driver-assistance system technology and in-car intelligent operating system, as well as core vehicle systems including powertrain and the electrical/electronic architecture. XPENG is headquartered in Guangzhou, China, with main offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Silicon Valley and San Diego. The Company’s Smart EVs are mainly manufactured at its plants in Zhaoqing and Guangzhou, Guangdong province. For more information, please visit https://www.xpeng.com/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about XPENG’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: XPENG’s goal and strategies; XPENG’s expansion plans; XPENG’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; the trends in, and size of, China’s EV market; XPENG’s expectations regarding demand for, and market acceptance of, its products and services; XPENG’s expectations regarding its relationships with customers, suppliers, third-party service providers, strategic partners and other stakeholders; general economic and business conditions; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in XPENG’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and XPENG does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

Contacts:

For Investor Enquiries:

IR Department
XPeng Inc.
Email: ir@xiaopeng.com

Jenny Cai
Piacente Financial Communications
Tel: +1 212 481 2050 / +86 10 6508 0677
Email: xpeng@tpg-ir.com

For Media Enquiries:

PR Department
XPeng Inc.
Email: pr@xiaopeng.com

The 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 Torch Relay: 74 Torchbearers Light Up Sanya’s Coast

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Advertorial Desk
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SANYA, China, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On 30 March 2026, the torch relay for the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 (hereinafter referred to as the Games or Sanya 2026) was held in Sanya. The relay, themed “Passing on Friendship, Meeting in Sanya”, featured three core segments: the flame lighting ceremony, the torch relay starting ceremony, and the flame return ceremony. A total of 74 torchbearers ran in relay along approximately 10.5 kilometres of Sanya Bay, building excitement for the upcoming Games.

In the morning, the flame lighting ceremony took place at Sanya’s southern cauldron, originally built for the 11th Asian Games. After the starting ceremony, the first torchbearer, CHANG Yani, the Paris Olympic Games women’s synchronised 3-metre springboard diving champion, set off. “With the vast sea right beside me, the feeling is truly special,” she said.

The relay route innovatively combined beach, road, and maritime segments, passing by multiple venues of Sanya 2026 and showcasing the city’s unique coastal scenery. The torch was relayed by several Olympic champions, including SHI Zhiyong (weightlifting), LIU Shiwen (women’s table tennis team), JIANG Ranxin (shooting), and QI Guangpu (freestyle skiing aerials).

Along the route, spectators also enjoyed water and cultural performances, including jet-ski stunts, flyboarding, Li brocade fashion shows, bamboo pole dances, Qiong opera, and Yazhou folk songs. At the Sanya International Yachting Center, a robotics lion dance and drumming performance integrated technology with traditional elements.

CAO Shoubin, Operations Director of the Sanya 2026 Torch Relay Team, stated that the event adhered to the principles of “green, shared, open, and integrity”, allowing the world to witness Sanya’s natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant energy.

Sanya 2026 will be held from 22 to 30 April 2026. As Asia’s highest-level beach sports event, it is also the first major international multi-sport event hosted in Hainan after the Free Trade Port’s operational opening. This edition of the Games will feature 14 sports, 15 disciplines, and 62 events, awarding 62 gold medals.

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTPWNnP_aAY

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