Home Blog Page 76

TDConnex wins Leading Innovator of the Year award for Electronics at India’s 2026 MSME Awards

TDConnex was one of two recipients in the Electronics category for the prestigious national MSME award in India for 2026.

CHENNAI, India, May 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TDConnex, a global leader in micro-precision manufacturing, has been named Leading Innovator of the Year — Electronics at the 2026 India MSME Awards. TDConnex was one of only two recipients of the prestigious national prize for India.

TDConnex wins Leading Innovator of the Year award for Electronics at India's 2026 MSME Awards
TDConnex wins Leading Innovator of the Year award for Electronics at India’s 2026 MSME Awards

The Electronics Innovator of the Year award is among the most selective national recognitions for enterprise innovation in India’s electronics manufacturing sector. The award honours enterprises that have demonstrated distinctive innovation, technical capability, and impact in advancing India’s position in the global electronics value chain.

The recognition acknowledges TDConnex’s sustained contribution to building global-scale precision manufacturing capability in India. Since establishing its first Indian manufacturing campus in Tamil Nadu, TDConnex has grown into one of the country’s leading platforms for advanced micro-precision components. TDConnex is an established global leader in producing these high-precision components, used in many of the world’s most advanced electronic products. Today, TDConnex components can be found in over a billion electronic devices around the world.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful for TDConnex, and for our global team who have made our ambitious vision for India into a reality today,” said Thanga Venkatachalam, CEO of TDConnex. “When we set out to build TDConnex in India, our ambition was to bring world-class manufacturing capabilities to the country in a way that could help global technology innovators deliver the next generation of electronics to the world. This award is a testament to the extraordinary engineers, technicians, and leaders on our India team who have turned that ambition into reality. Our fast-growing India team has scaled our business in every dimension: people, capabilities, customers, verticals, capacity, and factory scale.”

“We are also grateful to the TDConnex team around the world who have worked unselfishly to help support our scale-up in India. This award is the result of truly global collaboration, and we are proud of what our people have built together.”

The award comes as TDConnex continues to invest significantly in India. The Company is preparing to commence construction on its new 1 million sq ft lot at SIPCOT in Tamil Nadu, where it is building advanced manufacturing capabilities across multiple high-precision verticals — including precision components for consumer electronics, electromechanical assemblies for power electronics and industrial applications, and medical device manufacturing. India is a central pillar of TDConnex’s strategy of building manufacturing capabilities for tomorrow’s supply chain, alongside its operations in China and Southeast Asia.

About TDConnex

TDConnex provides manufacturing for tomorrow’s supply chain.  The company is deeply committed to helping global technology leaders create and deliver the products that change the way the world lives and works. Today, our leading-edge, micro-precision components can be found in over a billion technology products worldwide, and we are focused on helping customers create the next generation of more sustainable, more advanced electronic products for the future.

Cathay United Bank Acts as Joint Lead Arranger in US$3.7 Billion SMBC Aviation Capital Financing

TAIPEI, May 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cathay United Bank Singapore Branch has further strengthened its position in the international syndicated loan market by acting as a joint lead arranger in a landmark financing transaction for SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world’s largest aircraft leasing companies. The transaction secured US$2 billion in commitments from mandated lead arrangers and bookrunners and was subsequently upsized to a total of US$3.7 billion . Supported by strong market demand, the transaction ultimately attracted participation from 40 Taiwanese and international financial institutions and achieved an oversubscription rate of 85%, demonstrating Cathay United Bank’s strong syndication capabilities and solid reputation in the international financial market.

The financing consists of a seven-year tranche of approximately US$1.4 billion and a five-year tranche of approximately US$2.3 billion. Proceeds will support the business development and strategic investments of SMBC Aviation Capital, including its recent investment in Sumisho Air Lease, further strengthening its global aircraft leasing services. Acting as a joint lead arranger, the Singapore Branch coordinated participation from relationship banks across Asia and Europe, reflecting strong confidence in the company’s operating strategy and long-term growth prospects.

Established more than 25 years ago, SMBC Aviation Capital is one of the world’s leading aircraft leasing and aviation asset management companies, with extensive expertise in aircraft leasing, financing, and fleet management. The transaction also marks the company’s first unsecured seven-year syndicated financing, representing an important strategic milestone in strengthening its long-term capital structure.

The Singapore Branch stated that the transaction is highly representative, not only highlighting Cathay United Bank’s long-term and stable funding capabilities in large-scale international transactions, but also underscoring its deep expertise in cross-border financing and aviation finance. Going forward, Cathay United Bank will continue leveraging its extensive experience in cross-border financing to support SMBC Aviation Capital’s global expansion strategy.

SMBC Aviation Capital noted that the transaction represents a significant milestone for the company, further deepening cooperation with its core banking partners. The company also expressed appreciation for the support provided by Cathay United Bank and the broader banking syndicate, which contributed to the successful completion of the syndicated financing. The financing will support the continued expansion of its global aircraft leasing business while establishing a strong and flexible capital foundation.

Cathay United Bank has long expanded its international presence, and participation in this syndicated loan through its Singapore Branch further reinforces its strategic position in cross-border syndicated lending, aviation finance, and transportation finance. As the aviation market continues its steady recovery and demand for fleet renewal rises, Cathay United Bank will continue enhancing its regional capabilities and professional financial services to serve as a trusted financial partner for corporate clients pursuing international expansion.

Cathay United Bank Singapore Branch reached another milestone by joining the US$3.7 billion syndicated financing for SMBC Aviation Capital as a joint lead arranger, showcasing its strong cross-border financing expertise.
Cathay United Bank Singapore Branch reached another milestone by joining the US$3.7 billion syndicated financing for SMBC Aviation Capital as a joint lead arranger, showcasing its strong cross-border financing expertise.

Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay Unveils Two New Disney-Themed Experiences For Families

From stunning character topiaries at Floral Fantasy to nostalgic outdoor fun inspired by Winnie the Pooh and friends, a whole day of Disney fun awaits families at the Gardens


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 May 2026 – This June, Singapore’s iconic horticultural attraction Gardens by the Bay invites families to step into two delightful Disney-themed experiences. Supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, Disney Garden of Wonder returns to Floral Fantasy with new topiary displays, while the flagship Children’s Festival 2026 featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh takes over Supertree Grove with outdoor installations and play areas. Gardens by the Bay was also named the third top attraction in the world in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best 2026.

Gardens by the Bay's Children Festival featuring Disney's Winnie the Pooh
Gardens by the Bay’s Children Festival featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh
Gardens by the Bay's Garden of Wonder at Floral Fantasy
Gardens by the Bay’s Garden of Wonder at Floral Fantasy



Disney Garden of Wonder

Following its successful debut in 2024, Disney Garden of Wonder (迪士尼奇妙花园)is back at Floral Fantasy with new topiary displays and dioramas of beloved Disney and Pixar characters. For the first time, the 2026 edition of Disney Garden of Wonder will introduce displays of Disney Princess heroines Rapunzel, Belle and Jasmine. In another first, topiary versions of Frozen’s Anna and Elsa will also preside over an enchanting snowy landscape, brought to life through floral artistry and themed lighting that imagines a frost-kissed world of wonder.

Visitors can look forward to 23 topiary characters across six themed zones, including fan favourites such as: Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey; Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear from Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5; as well as Hundred Acre Wood pals like Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet and Tigger. Rounding out the journey is a uniquely Singaporean finale, where visitors can snap playful photos with displays of Disney characters reimagined in local settings, alongside famed hawker fare such as laksa and teh tarik.

With its blend of floral artistry, familiar characters and magical storytelling, Disney Garden of Wonder offers families a visually rich journey that appeals across generations during the upcoming school holidays.

Disney Garden of Wonder will run from 8 June 2026 to 14 March 2027.

Children’s Festival 2026 featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh

The free Children’s Festival is back at Gardens by the Bay’s Supertree Grove this June holidays, celebrating 100 years of Winnie the Pooh and the beloved bear’s enduring message to be kind, stay curious, and keep a little honey in your heart.

Highlights include:

  • The Hundred Acre Glide, inspired by the Hundred Acre Wood – the first zipline in Singapore themed after Disney’s Winnie the Pooh. Featuring a treehouse-style installation, children can glide 16 metres across the festival grounds against the backdrop of the Supertrees.
  • The Sweetest Drops, inspired by Winnie the Pooh –this honeycomb-themed ball pit is inspired by Pooh’s search for his favourite snack, honey, which often turns into an adventure.
  • The Brave Logs, inspired by Piglet – balance across planks and “tree stumps” in this quick-footed adventure that encourages children to summon their courage and take things one step at a time.
  • The Enchanted Meadows, inspired by Eeyore – slow down and enjoy gentle see-saws in this play area themed after a breezy field of flowers.
  • The Joyful Puddles, inspired by Tigger – drawing from Tigger’s energetic personality, these “puddle” trampolines are perfect for a day of bouncing fun in the sun.

Pooh’s Grand Friendship Party inflatable march

For the first time in Southeast Asia, Gardens by the Bay will be presenting a march into Supertree Grove with super-sized inflatables up to seven metres in height. Titled “Pooh’s Grand Friendship Party”, visitors of all ages may join in this lively song and dance twice on Saturdays, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for the entire family.

There is even more to explore, from a special Disney-themed retail pop-up to carnival games.

Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival runs from May 30 to June 21 and admission is free.

For more information on Garden of Wonder and Children’s Festival, please visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg.

Disney Garden of Wonder

Date: Monday, 8 June 2026 to Sunday, 14 March 2027
Time: 10.00am to 9.00pm
Venue: Floral Fantasy, Gardens by the Bay
Details: Tickets are priced at SGD$24 for adults and SGD$16 for children. Tickets are available at https://ticket.gardensbythebay.com.sg/.

Children’s Festival 2026 featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh

Date: Saturday 30 May to Sunday, 21 June 2026
Time: 10.00am to 9.00pm
Venue: Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay
Details: Admission is free

Pooh’s Grand Friendship Party inflatable march

Date Time
30 May 2026 3.30PM
6 June 2026
13 June 2026
20 June 2026
3.30PM and 5.30PM

Venue: Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay

Getting here:
Take the MRT to Bayfront station or Gardens by the Bay station. Alternatively, drop off at the Main Arrival or Bayfront Plaza carpark via taxi or ride-hailing service. More information available here.

Hashtag: #GardensbytheBay

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

About Gardens by the Bay

An integral part of Singapore’s “City in Nature” vision, Gardens by the Bay is a national garden and premier horticultural attraction that showcases the best of garden and floral artistry for all to enjoy. Spanning 101 hectares in the heart of Singapore’s downtown Marina Bay, it comprises three waterfront gardens – Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. Bay South, the largest at 54 hectares, officially opened on 29 June 2012.

Guided by the vision to be a world of gardens for all to own, enjoy and cherish, the Gardens’ extensive plant collection, ever-changing floral displays, and myriad of engaging programmes have captured the imagination of many, while its Gift of Gardens community initiative, with Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore as Patron, reaches out to people from all walks of life.

Since opening, Gardens by the Bay has welcomed more than 115 million visitors and garnered numerous international accolades including the third Top Attraction in the World in Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026, Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2024, Best Theme Attraction at TTG Travel Awards 2022 and 2023, and Best Attraction Experience at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2019. The Gardens continues to refresh and refine its offerings, to be a place that everyone can enjoy – a garden where wonder blooms.

For more information, visit .

SEMIFIVE Reports 137% YoY Revenue Growth in Q1 2026, Accelerating Its Rise as a Key Global Player in AI ASIC

  • Revenue reached KRW 47.9 billion and new orders totaled KRW 55.4 billion, marking a record-breaking performance and signaling the beginning of full-scale growth.
  • Overseas ASIC development revenue, including North America and Japan, exceeded 60% of total ASIC development revenue, strengthening the global customer base.
  • Q1 mass production orders alone reached nearly 74% of last year’s total annual volume, demonstrating strong momentum in mass production.

SEOUL, South Korea, May 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SEMIFIVE, a leading global provider of custom AI semiconductor (ASIC) solutions, today announced record-breaking revenue and new orders for the first quarter of this year, marking the beginning of an accelerated growth phase.

According to the regulatory filing released on May 15, SEMIFIVE recorded consolidated revenue of KRW 47.9 billion and new orders of KRW 55.4 billion for Q1 2026. Revenue increased by 137% compared to the same period last year (KRW 20.2 billion), marking the highest quarterly performance in the company’s history.

This achievement was driven by simultaneous growth across the company’s three core business segments: ASIC development services, mass production supply, and Intellectual Property (IP). Previously accumulated design projects are now generating mass production revenue, enabling a virtuous growth cycle that is driving both qualitative and quantitative expansion.

ASIC Development: Global Order Expansion Centered on North America and Japan, and Revenue Growth from Advanced Process Nodes

The ASIC development segment spearheaded overall growth with KRW 28.0 billion in revenue, surpassing a 2.6-fold increase year over year. The strategic expansion into North America and Japan in 2025 has begun to yield meaningful results, with overseas revenue now accounting for over 60% of total development sales. This is a dramatic shift from Q1 2025, which focused on the domestic market.

Alongside this growth, SEMIFIVE is accelerating its transition toward a high-margin business model. By increasing the proportion of advanced 2nm and 4nm process node projects for data center AI ASICs, the company has strengthened its profitability. Simultaneously, its 5nm and 8nm portfolio for edge AI and devices offers strong manufacturability, creating a balanced growth model that combines technical leadership with business resilience.

Mass Production: Commercialization of Large-Scale Projects and Reaching 74% of Last Year’s Total Orders in Q1

The mass production segment has entered a phase of significant expansion, driven by the continuous shipment of products across various applications, including data center AI, edge AI, and vision AI.

A noteworthy highlight is the rapid growth in new mass production purchase orders (POs). In Q1 alone, SEMIFIVE secured new orders amounting to 74% of the total volume recorded for the entire previous year.

This achievement demonstrates that the large-scale development projects initiated since the company’s founding have successfully entered the commercialization stage, securing tangible revenue visibility. Furthermore, as current overseas projects transition to mass production and the follow-up pipeline expands as planned, the company is projected to maintain a steady growth trend moving forward.

IP: Sustained Growth Driven by Shift to Advanced Process IPs

Revenue in the IP segment nearly doubled compared to the same period last year. This growth is attributed to strong global demand for low-power mixed-signal IP from subsidiary Analog Bits, which has become an essential component in high-performance AI ASIC design. The robust performance this quarter was primarily driven by a surge in IP revenue from advanced 2nm and 3nm process nodes.

Solutions for thermal management and power efficiency improvement have become key competitive advantages in the initial stages of AI chip design. As a result, the adoption of analog IP is expected to accelerate further, leading to the continuous generation of stable, high-margin performance.

“Our impressive performance this quarter was driven by the successful execution of leading-edge AI semiconductor projects, which demonstrated our differentiated technological leadership in the global high-value AI semiconductor market, along with the full-scale transition of accumulated development projects into mass production,” said Brandon Cho, CEO and co-founder of SEMIFIVE. “We will continue to lead the commercialization of high-performance innovative technologies and next-generation AI architecture solutions that will bring a new paradigm to the semiconductor market, while sustaining profitable growth.”

Shanghai’s INS LAND Unveils Three New Immersive Venues — Soul House, Radi, and Jump

SHANGHAI, May 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — INS LAND, the urban entertainment complex recently ranked No.12 in DJ Mag’s 2026 Top 100 Clubs worldwide and No.3 in Asia, announced the opening of three new venues: Soul House, an immersive club; Radi, a fully reimagined and expanded reopening; and Jump, a new high-energy club featuring a spring-loaded dance floor designed to keep guests literally off the ground.

“Soul House, Radi, and Jump are our answer to 2026,” said Leo Liu, Cofounder & Head of Brand and Growth at INS LAND. “Each one is a new chapter in INS LAND’s vision of bringing the gaming world to life — with a single ticket, guests don’t just visit a venue; they enter a world where experiences are reborn every 45 days.”

The openings mark a strategic evolution ahead of INS LAND’s third anniversary on June 16, 2026, shifting from a “club cluster” identity into a multi-format urban playground. The brand now spans 20 fully owned and operated venues under one ticketed ecosystem.

Soul House is INS LAND’s most ambitious immersive concept to date. It features multiple themed rooms, each with its own narrative universe. Guests move through distinct worlds with beverage items, scenography, and storytelling elements, blending immersive theatre and spatial design into a layered experience.

Radi returns after a complete transformation, with an expanded footprint, upgraded sound and lighting systems, and a refreshed design direction positioning it as a signature, design-forward destination within the INS LAND portfolio.

Jump introduces a new experiential format centered on movement. Built around a spring-loaded dance floor, it features high-energy programming across electronic and bounce genres, designed to create a physically kinetic nightlife experience.


About INS LAND

INS LAND is a 20-venue urban entertainment complex in central Shanghai, combining nightlife, immersive experiences, dining, and music under one unified brand. With a single-ticket model granting access across venues, it welcomed over 4 million visitors in 2025 and ranks No.12 globally in DJ Mag’s Top 100 Clubs. The platform refreshes its core themes every 45 days and its mobile app supports over 1 million active users across online and offline experiences. INS LAND has collaborated with brands including Mercedes-Benz, Nike, Douyin, Doritos, and Publicis Groupe, and is preparing international expansion with INS LAND Bangkok planned for 2027.

More information: INS LAND Official Site

UN Global Compact Launches Country Network Rwanda to Accelerate Private Sector Action on Sustainable Development

KIGALI, Rwanda, May 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The UN Global Compact today announced the launch of the Country Network Rwanda, marking a significant step in expanding private sector leadership on sustainability across Africa. Convened on the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum, the launch brought together senior leaders from business, government and the United Nations to signal a shared commitment to responsible, inclusive growth.

The Rwandan Country Network establishes a dedicated national platform to support companies in aligning their strategies and operations with the UN Global Compact’s Ten Principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, while advancing progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As the country continues its rapid economic transformation, Network Rwanda is designed to help ensure that growth is matched by strong governance, transparency and long-term resilience.

The launch also marked the formal establishment of the Network Rwanda’s governance structure, including its inaugural Board of Directors and Secretariat. In line with the UN Global Compact global network model, spanning more than 60 Country Networks worldwide, including a growing presence across Africa, this leadership will guide Network Rwanda’s independent operations, support participating companies and catalyse collective action across Rwanda’s business ecosystem.

Speaking at the launch, Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, underscored the importance of a resilient, and sustainable private sector to drive economic growth. “Rwanda’s growth story is one of ambition and innovation, and the private sector has a central role to play in ensuring that this growth is aligned with the country’s national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals. The launch of Country Network Rwanda is about creating jobs, building markets and shaping economies through strong private sector engagement. Through this Country Network, we are creating a platform for companies to lead not just in setting targets, but in delivering measurable impact.”

The event set out a clear roadmap for the Network’s first phase of activity, with a focus on driving practical implementation, strengthening partnerships with government and development actors, and enabling companies to deliver measurable outcomes across priority SDG areas.

Representing the Government of Rwanda, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Prudence Sebahizi, welcomed the launch as a timely initiative to support the country’s development priorities.

“With the private sector employing approximately 90% of our workforce, its role as the engine of Rwanda’s economy is undeniable,” Sebahizi said. “However, for this growth to be truly transformative, it must be rooted in responsibility. The launch of this Rwandan Network is a timely call to action, particularly for our vital industries like the mining sector, to move beyond traditional operations and embrace global standards of sustainability. Our businesses, from large corporations to SMEs, are not just protecting the environment and human rights; they are ensuring their own long-term competitiveness in a changing global market.”

Private sector leaders also highlighted the importance of a platform that connects global standards with local business realities, enabling companies to scale impact while remaining competitive.

“We are at a point where we can no longer wait for sustainability to become convenient or easy. Real leadership in the private sector requires the courage to make difficult decisions today that will secure our collective future tomorrow. We believe that integrating these principles isn’t just about compliance; it’s about having the bravery to innovate and lead. The UN Global Compact provides the framework we need to turn that courage into measurable progress for every Rwandan,” said Monzer Ali, CEO, MTN Rwandacell PLC.

With its launch, the Country Network Rwanda joins a growing cohort of eleven African networks demonstrating that responsible business practices are not only essential to managing risk but central to unlocking long-term economic opportunity across the continent.

About the UN Global Compact

As a special initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General, the UN Global Compact is a call to companies worldwide to align their operations and strategies with Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. Our vision is clear: to mobilize business to transform sustainability ambition into action at the scale the world demands. With more than 25,000 participants and a presence in over 100 countries through 5 Regional Hubs and more than 70 Country Networks and expansion territories, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative.

For more information, follow @globalcompact on social media and visit our website at unglobalcompact.org

 

UN Global Compact Africa Business Leaders Coalition Unveils New Roadmap to Accelerate Intra-African Trade and Sustainable Growth

KIGALI, Rwanda, May 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Africa Business Leaders Coalition (ABLC), a CEO-led platform convened by the UN Global Compact to bring together leading African CEOs and companies to advance sustainable growth, climate action, gender equality and economic transformation across the continent, has launched a major new position paper, Five Mindset Shifts to Unlock Intra-African Trade: A Perspective from African CEOs, at the Africa CEO Forum. The paper presents a CEO-driven, private sector-led roadmap for accelerating regional integration, strengthening African value chains and unlocking sustainable economic growth through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The launch of the trade paper at the Africa CEO Forum aligns closely with this year’s Forum theme of shared ownership. It reflects growing recognition that Africa’s long-term competitiveness will depend on stronger regional integration, coordinated industrial development and greater private sector leadership on intra-African trade.

The paper argues that Africa’s transformation will depend not only on policy reform and investment, but on a fundamental shift in how governments, businesses and institutions approach regional integration and collaboration. The paper focuses on the practical actions and mindset shifts African CEOs believe are required to unlock the full potential of regional trade and economic integration.

Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum, Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, said: “Unlocking intra-African trade is one of the greatest economic opportunities of our generation. Africa has the resources, talent and entrepreneurial dynamism to become a major engine of global growth. What is needed now is deeper collaboration between Governments, business and regional institutions to remove barriers to trade, investment and mobility and build the conducive infrastructure to support this. The Africa Business Leaders Coalition is demonstrating how the private sector can help drive a more integrated, resilient and competitive African economy.”

The paper outlines five key mindset shifts required to unlock intra-African trade and strengthen Africa’s long-term competitiveness:

  • Viewing continental collaboration as a strategic advantage rather than competition;
  • Recognizing that Africa can produce goods, not just export raw materials;
  • Treating the mobility of people and talent as an economic opportunity;
  • Building interconnected infrastructure networks instead of isolated national projects; and
  • Acting with urgency to seize Africa’s current economic moment.

The report also emphasizes the need for stronger regional value chains in sectors including agriculture, automotive manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, while investing in emerging technologies and workforce readiness, including artificial intelligence.

Alongside the trade paper, the ABLC also released its 2025 Voluntary Climate Action and Gender Equality Report, which demonstrates growing momentum among African businesses on climate action, resilience and inclusion. The report highlights that ABLC members have collectively mobilized US$9.4 billion in climate finance since 2023. Other key findings from the report include:

  • Approximately 90 per cent of climate finance mobilized by ABLC members has been directed toward climate mitigation and renewable energy projects;
  • Half of reporting members now have climate adaptation and resilience plans in place;
  • Eighty-four per cent of reporting members have integrated gender equality strategies into overall company strategy;
  • Women represent an average of 32 per cent of management positions across participating companies;
  • ABLC members provided approximately US$1.02 billion in investment and financing to women-owned SMEs in 2025.

Sharing these statistics, Phumzilie Langeni, ABLC member and Deputy Chairman of DP World Africa reflected on the Coalition’s progress from commitments to concrete action: “When we started, it seemed like such a long journey. But I’m reminded of some of the conversations that we’ve had as members of ABLC the theme has been that we as African business leaders can solve our own problems. We don’t need to wait. We’re not waiting to be saved.”

About the UN Global Compact
As a special initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General, the UN Global Compact is a call to companies worldwide to align their operations and strategies with Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. Our vision is clear: to mobilize business to transform sustainability ambition into action at the scale the world demands. With more than 25,000 participants and a presence in over 100 countries through 5 Regional Hubs and more than 70 Country Networks and expansion territories, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative.

For more information, follow @globalcompact on social media and visit our website at unglobalcompact.org

Key Highlights

  • ABLC paper outlines five mindset shifts needed to unlock intra-African trade
  • AfCFTA could increase African exports by 68% and more than double FDI by 2035
  • ABLC members have mobilized US$9.4 billion in climate finance since 2023
  • ABLC report highlights growing private sector leadership on climate action, resilience and gender equality
  • ABLC members have provided more than US$1 billion in financing to women-owned SMEs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Africa Business Leaders Coalition (ABLC)?
The UN Global Compact Africa Business Leaders Coalition is a platform convened by the United Nations Global Compact that brings together leading African CEOs and companies to advance sustainable growth, climate action, gender equality and economic transformation across the continent.

What is the new position paper about?
The paper, Five Mindset Shifts to Unlock Intra-African Trade: A Perspective from African CEOs, outlines practical recommendations from African business leaders on how to accelerate regional trade and economic integration under the AfCFTA.

Why is intra-African trade important?
Greater intra-African trade can strengthen economic resilience, create jobs, attract investment, develop regional value chains and reduce reliance on external markets. The AfCFTA is seen as one of the most important economic opportunities for the continent.

What are the five mindset shifts identified in the paper?
The paper calls for:

  1. Greater continental collaboration;
  2. More African industrial production and value addition;
  3. Easier movement of people and talent;
  4. Better connected infrastructure networks; and
  5. Faster implementation and action.

What does the ABLC Annual Report show?
The Voluntary Climate Action and Gender Equality Report highlights measurable progress by member companies on climate finance, renewable energy, resilience planning and gender equality.

How much climate finance have ABLC members mobilized?
ABLC members have collectively mobilized approximately US$9.4 billion in climate finance since 2023.

How large is the ABLC network?
The Coalition currently includes 75 companies operating across 52 African countries, representing nearly one million employees and approximately US$171 billion in combined annual revenue.

What role does the private sector play in Africa’s development?
The ABLC believes the private sector has a critical role to play in driving investment, innovation, industrialization, climate action and job creation across Africa, particularly through partnerships with governments and regional institutions.

Young Scholars Interpret Eastern Classics in Varied Forms, Revitalizing Confucian Thought in Singapore

SINGAPORE, May 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On May 15, the Singapore Special Session under the Overseas Division of the 6th “Stories of China Retold in English” Challenge concluded successfully. With the theme “Chinese Culture, World Heritage,” the event centered on the global dissemination of the classic Confucian text The Analects. It brought together Chinese international students from Singapore’s universities, local youth, and educators from China and Singapore. Through diverse artistic expressions including English speeches, rap, dance, and cross-talk, the participants interpreted the contemporary value of Eastern wisdom, presenting a cultural feast that bridged the past and present, as well as China and Singapore.

The Singapore Session of the 6th "Stories of China Retold in English" Challenge Concludes Successfully.
The Singapore Session of the 6th “Stories of China Retold in English” Challenge Concludes Successfully.

Six Years of Dedication: Connecting China and the Globe Through Classics

Co-hosted by China Education Television and New Channel International Education Group, the “Stories of China Retold in English” Challenge is China’s first large-scale cultural exchange event for young people both in China and abroad, focusing on the international dissemination of Chinese culture. Launched in 2020, the challenge has attracted 1.53 million young participants from 149 countries and regions worldwide. Starting from its third edition, it has introduced an overseas division for Chinese students studying at foreign universities, offering them a platform to express their national sentiments and share China’s voice with the world. Following successful overseas sessions at the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford in 2024 and 2025 respectively, this year’s edition made its debut in Singapore.

As a cultural hub of Southeast Asia, Singapore serves as a vital gateway for Chinese culture to reach Southeast Asia and the world. By choosing The Analects as its core theme, this Singapore session delved deeply into the scholarly spirit of “Learning and then constantly putting what you’ve learned into practice,” the value pursuit of “A gentleman can be guided by righteousness,” and the principle of “Do not impose on others what you would not wish for yourself.” It allowed Confucian wisdom spanning over 2,500 years to thrive anew in multicultural Singapore, infusing profound cultural meaning into people-to-people exchanges between China and Singapore.

Grand Opening: Distinguished Guests Gather to Explore Cultural Missions

The event garnered extensive attention and strong support from educational and cultural circles in both China and Singapore, with representatives from institutions including the Chinese Embassy in Singapore, the Singapore Institute of Management, PSB Academy, Curtin Singapore, and the Singapore Culture and Education Association attending in person.

Mr. Wang Yong, First Secretary of the Education Office of the Chinese Embassy in Singapore, delivered the opening address. He stated that the “Stories of China Retold in English” Challenge is of far-reaching significance. It provides a high-quality platform for young people and culture enthusiasts to showcase themselves and engage in exchanges and learning. It also helps hone their cross-linguistic and cross-cultural communication skills, fosters their cultural confidence, and consolidates their sense of responsibility and commitment to inherit and carry forward fine traditional Chinese culture. With stories as a medium and culture as a bridge, the event features sincere voices from young people, which, in addition to conveying China’s strength, draws the hearts of the Chinese and Singaporean peoples closer and facilitates exchanges between diverse civilizations. He also hoped that Chinese students studying in Singapore would take this event as an opportunity to strive to be storytellers of China and ambassadors of Chinese culture.   

Zhang Fanlin, Executive Commander of the “Stories of China Retold in English” Challenge and VP of New Channel International Education Group, noted in his speech that as a leading Chinese international education institution, New Channel adheres to the educational philosophy of “cultivating young learners with deep Chinese cultural roots and authentic global competence,” and is committed to deeply integrating international education with international communication. This Singapore overseas session, themed on The Analects, carries profound cultural significance: It inspires Chinese international students to unleash their creativity and vitality, interpret Chinese classics from a contemporary perspective through an international language, and tell China’s stories well and share China’s voice across the globe.

Classics Revitalized: Diverse Renditions of The Analects‘ Contemporary Meaning

The performances at this edition highlighted a hallmark  of “integrating ancient and modern elements, blending Chinese and Western styles.” Young participants delivered creative interpretations, rendering the ancient Confucian classics vivid and approachable while showcasing the younger Chinese generation’s admiration for and inheritance of the classics.

Wang Minda from Nanyang Technological University presented an original Chinese-English rap titled PhD Rap Diary (Confucius in a Group Meeting), which stood out as one of the event’s highlights. He cleverly wove Confucius’s educational principles of “teaching students in accordance with their aptitude” and “diligently pursuing knowledge without ever feeling satisfied” into the daily research and group meeting experiences of modern PhD students and supervisors. Through trendy rap, he portrayed Confucius as “China’s earliest doctoral supervisor,” delighting the audience in a lighthearted atmosphere. Ji Sihan, an environmental engineering student at the National University of Singapore, delivered a speech titled “Standing Firm in Hardship,” resonating deeply with the audience. Drawing on her own experience of loneliness and academic pressure while studying abroad, as well as the social mission of environmental engineering in global climate governance, she offered a profound interpretation of the quote: “Noble men, indeed, also face hardships, but unlike petty men, they do not lose their composure or act recklessly when confronted with adversity,” illustrating how Confucian ethos informs contemporary personal growth and global problem-solving.

The fusion of traditional art and international expression was equally splendid. Highlights included the bilingual bel canto performance Ode to the Orchid, bilingual recitations of The Analects: Youthful Journey and A Millennium of Questions and Answers, the original cross-talk Confucius Goes South to the Ocean, and the martial arts performance Youthful Grace of Benevolence. These programs showcased the diverse expressive charm of The Analects from multiple dimensions.

Passing the Torch: Writing a New Chapter Through Cultural Bridges

The event also arranged a Chinese cultural experience zone outside the venue, featuring three signature activities: solving lantern riddles, hanging sachets, and creating handwritten brush-calligraphy slips. This allowed Chinese and international guests to experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture up close through sight, sound, touch, and perception after the performances.

Under colorful lanterns, traditional Chinese riddles drew many visitors to stop and participate. In the calligraphy and painting area, foreign friends picked up brushes for the first time to experience the charm of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting. People of different nationalities and languages exchanged ideas and strengthened friendship through interaction, making this the most touching part of the event.

The successful Singapore session not only provided a platform for Chinese and Singaporean youth to showcase themselves and engage in cultural exchanges, but also enabled Confucian wisdom to transcend boundaries and radiate its unique charm in Singapore, contributing Chinese insights to the exchange and mutual learning of world civilizations. Moving forward, the “Stories of China Retold in English” Challenge will continue to serve as a bridge for cross-cultural communication, joining hands with global youth to help more authentic, profound and heartfelt Chinese stories take root, bloom and bear fruit worldwide.