Category: 24/7 News

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Stolen car recovered, man to face charges

Source: New Zealand Police

A stolen vehicle spotted travelling at speed through Papakura last night caught the eye of Police.

At about 11.45pm, officers noticed a Subaru travelling an excessive speed on Beach Road towards Chichester Drive.

Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says a Police Camera Operator became aware of the job and observed the vehicle as it continued on State Highway 1 near Ramarama.

“The vehicle has then exited at Razorback Road where the Police helicopter has been able to monitor its movements to Tuakau Bridge where it parked outside a rural address.

“Officers quickly took four people at the address into custody and the vehicle was recovered.”

Inspector Hoyes says this was great work by officers who persevered when losing sight of the stolen vehicle.

“We would also like to remind people to remain vigilant and make sure their vehicles and property are kept safe and secure.

“Any suspicious or concerning activity should be reported to Police immediately on 111.”

An 18-year-old has been charged with burglary and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and will appear in Pukekohe District Court at a later date.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/16/stolen-car-recovered-man-to-face-charges/

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CollectForU Expert and Debt Hunter Jointly Report Critical Credit Risk Management Gaps Among Hong Kong SMEs

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 March 2026 – Professional credit management firms CollectForU Expert and Debt Hunter today jointly released a comprehensive industry observation report regarding the financial health of local enterprises. The report indicates that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Hong Kong are currently facing significant liquidity risks as payment cycles across supply chains continue to lengthen. This trend has resulted in a critical imbalance between recorded profits and actual cash flow.

CollectForU Expert and Debt Hunter Jointly Report Critical Credit Risk Management Gaps Among Hong Kong SMEs

Widespread Absence of Credit Defense Mechanisms
According to the findings, more than 70% of Hong Kong SMEs lack robust credit defense mechanisms. The report highlights that many businesses fail to perform in-depth credit due diligence on new clients or establish firm payment thresholds.

Alex Yeung, founder of CollectForU Expert, noted that a high percentage of SMEs remain in a state of low defense regarding credit management. Yeung emphasized that bad debts in B2B transactions often have a domino effect. He stated that if a company focuses solely on gross margins while ignoring the operational stability of a counterparty, a single large-scale default could potentially eliminate an entire year of net profit. He recommends that businesses establish standardized defense systems including background checks, credit limit settings, and continuous monitoring to ensure operational safety.

The 90-Day Recovery Threshold
The joint report identifies the 90-day mark as a critical watershed for the successful recovery of overdue accounts. Many SME owners hesitate to take action during the early stages of delinquency to preserve client relationships, which inadvertently increases the risk of asset dissipation or insolvency proceedings by the debtor.

Obis Tsang, founder of Debt Hunter and a professional mediator, stated that the success rate of commercial debt recovery is inversely proportional to the duration of the delinquency. Once a debt is overdue by more than 90 days, the probability of recovery decreases significantly. Tsang suggested that early intervention by specialized third parties should be viewed as a rational tool for commercial negotiation. Engaging mediation-focused professionals can facilitate viable repayment plans and prevent the loss of claims due to excessive delays.

Strategic Recommendations for SMEs
In response to the current economic environment, both institutions advise SMEs to adopt a proactive approach to credit defense rather than waiting for defaults to occur:

  • Strengthen Pre-Contract Screening: Implement standardized credit assessments before finalizing commercial agreements.
  • Establish Warning Mechanisms: Define clear payment deadlines and take immediate action when clients breach these thresholds.
  • Seek Timely Professional Assistance: Introduce expert third-party advice early in the delinquency period to stabilize cash flow.

CollectForU Expert and Debt Hunter intend to continue their collaboration to standardize credit management practices and enhance the financial resilience of Hong Kong SMEs.

https://www.debt-hunter.com/en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/debt-hunter
https://www.facebook.com/DebtHunterHK
Wechat: DebtHunterHK
https://www.instagram.com/debthunterhk

Hashtag: #CreditManagement #AccountsReceivable #CollectForU #DebtHunter #DebtCollection #HongKongSMEs

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/16/collectforu-expert-and-debt-hunter-jointly-report-critical-credit-risk-management-gaps-among-hong-kong-smes/

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Arts Grants – Do you have a completed draft of your manuscript that’s ready to take to the next level?

Source: NZSA

NZSA 2026 CompleteMS Programme – Do you have a completed draft of your manuscript that’s ready to take to the next level? Poetry, fiction, short fiction, non-fiction…

Apply now for the NZSA Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa CompleteMS Manuscript Assessment Programme: https://authors.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=905a5275ec5c023659502ec21&id=ef6ef93ca8&e=466373ae7c

The NZSA CompleteMS assessment programme is open for applications
 until 28 May 2026.

CompleteMS is for writers who have completed a manuscript through a number of drafts and now require the objective view of an experienced assessor to provide a constructive critique.

The thirteen successful applications will receive essential critical written feedback (followed by a Q+A session) from an NZSA Assessor on an advanced work, moving it closer to publication.

To apply for this professional development opportunity you need to be a current member of The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc. Membership of NZSA is $150 per annum, with a reduced rate for students – more about membership here: https://authors.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=905a5275ec5c023659502ec21&id=3b051fb2e8&e=466373ae7c

The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa seeks to reflect and expand the depth and breadth of Aotearoa New Zealand writing and welcomes applications from diverse writers working across a range of genres and writing disciplines. We tag three places on the programme each year for diverse writers.

Further information and application forms: https://authors.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=905a5275ec5c023659502ec21&id=e009bd3985&e=466373ae7c

Some comments on the assessment experience:

From writer’s who have received assessments through CompleteMS:

‘The comments were insightful, applicable, and specific. I feel as though I left this assessment with concrete next steps not only for my manuscript but also for my ongoing practice.’
‘The Q&A session was really useful as I was able to brainstorm plot tweaks and improvements on the spot and get instant feedback about whether I was on the right track now. ‘

From our NZSA Assessors:

Award-winning author and assessor Rosetta Allan says: ‘I believe this programme is of real value to writers. It provides not only professional feedback but also a sense of being taken seriously at a critical stage in their development. The combination of written assessment and Q&A dialogue offers both direction and encouragement, helping writers see their work through an industry lens while still supporting their creative ownership. For many, it may be the first time their manuscript is engaged with at this depth, which can be transformative.’
CompleteMS programme assessor, author, editor and creative writing lecturer Siobhan Harvey says: This is an absolutely indispensable service offered by the NZSA to a key author market.

The annual CompleteMS Programme is made possible with support from Creative New Zealand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/16/arts-grants-do-you-have-a-completed-draft-of-your-manuscript-thats-ready-to-take-to-the-next-level/

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Police seeking Nigel Byrd Edwards

Source: New Zealand Police

Police is seeking information on the whereabouts of Nigel Edwards who is wanted to arrest.

The 41-year-old man is wanted in connection with a firearms incident in Papakura on 8 March 2026.

Police have made a number of enquiries to locate Edwards in the past week.

Edwards is actively avoiding Police, and the public should consider him dangerous. Do not approach him.

If you sight Edwards, call Police on 111.

Information on his whereabouts can also be provided to Police via 105 using the reference number 260308/7975.

You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/16/police-seeking-nigel-byrd-edwards/

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Foreign and Defence Ministers to visit Canberra

Source: New Zealand Government

Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Defence Minister Judith Collins will attend the third annual Australia and New Zealand Foreign and Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ANZMIN) in Canberra this week. 

 “The ANZMIN is a critical opportunity to engage with Australia – our closest friend and only formal ally – to set the strategic direction and confirm our shared approaches to foreign policy, security, and defence,” Mr Peters says. 

 “New Zealand and Australia face the most unpredictable and dangerous strategic environment in decades. In the face of this instability, our commitment to work together is as strong as ever.”  

 Ms Collins says this year marks 75 years of the New Zealand-Australia Alliance. 

 “We recognise the deep historical bond and broader defence alignment that forms the foundation of our Alliance,” Ms Collins says. 

 “Since the Alliance began in 1951, we have continuously built on these foundations to ensure that our Alliance remains ready to meet modern challenges.”  

 The Ministers will discuss a wide range of strategic issues, including partnering in the Pacific and Antarctica, responding to growing instability in the Indo-Pacific and global tensions and developments.  

 Mr Peters and Ms Collins will also hold separate bilateral meetings with their respective counterparts, Penny Wong and Richard Marles. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/16/foreign-and-defence-ministers-to-visit-canberra/

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EIT Tairāwhiti valedictorian inspired by whanau, driven by purpose

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

12 minutes ago

Four years ago, Ami Hokianga set out to complete her Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) at EIT Tairāwhiti as a commitment to herself, her tamariki, and her future.

This week, she will fulfil that commitment, graduating with honours and taking the stage as this year’s Valedictorian.

EIT Tairāwhiti valedictorian Ami Hokianga will graduate with a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) at the War Memorial Theatre in Gisborne on March 20.

She will be among a cohort of students at the graduation ceremony at the War Memorial Theatre in Gisborne on Friday (March 20).

Ami (Rongowhakaata, Ngāti Porou, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi) says being named Valedictorian came as a surprise.

“I honestly thought they had confused me with someone else. It didn’t even cross my mind that I would be considered. I was just excited to finally graduate.”

“My interest in social work was shaped by lived and personal experiences navigating the family court and justice systems. It made me want to better understand how systems and policy decisions affect whānau.”

After a number of years working across the legal, health and horticultural sectors, Ami says studying at EIT Tairāwhiti meant she could grow professionally while still staying close to her whānau and serving the region. “It was also about proving to myself that anything is possible.”

“EIT Tairāwhiti gave me the opportunity to connect academic learning with practical experience, building my confidence while keeping me grounded in the realities of the communities and whānau closest to me.”

During her degree, Ami completed two placements: one at Oranga Tamariki and the other at Tairāwhiti Hospital. The latter, she says, highlighted both the complexity of the profession and the importance of strong advocacy.

“Social work is not practised in perfect conditions and in placement, I saw firsthand the strength required to navigate complex systems. When whānau voices were unheard, social workers carried them forward.”

It also reshaped how she understands the profession and the respect it deserves.

“I don’t just see social workers. I see practitioners. It takes four years of commitment, and we graduate as registered professionals. That recognition matters.”

Ami hopes to build on her experience in governance and Māori health, using her social work qualification and frontline insight to contribute to stronger policy, practice, and decision-making that better reflects the realities of whānau and communities across Aotearoa.

She has no hesitation recommending EIT Tairāwhiti to others, saying it offers students the opportunity to pursue tertiary study close to home in a grounded and supportive environment.

“With strong student support, great peers, and flexible degree and qualification pathways, EIT helps students build their futures close to home.”

Ami is grateful for the friendships she formed with fellow social work students in Tairāwhiti, particularly Natalya Williams and Nathanael Elliott, who began the degree with her.

“There were seasons of uncertainty, but through them we became certain of our own capability.”

She also received a study grant from her grandfather’s iwi on her mother’s side, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, affirming that her journey was supported by whakapapa and whānau beyond Tairāwhiti.

At the heart of her journey were her close friends, parents, and tamariki, whose love, support, and unwavering belief carried her to this moment.

“This honour belongs to them as much as it does to me.”

Tairāwhiti Campus Executive Director Tracey Tangihaere says: “Ami was a dedicated student who balanced parental responsibilities, work and academic studies”.

“Ami supported her fellow students along the way with maturity. Ami was selected because she displayed empathy for others and she was a passionate learner. Congratulations to all our graduates.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/16/eit-tairawhiti-valedictorian-inspired-by-whanau-driven-by-purpose/

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2026 Changan Global Testing Season Hits Mexico with Four New Models

Source: Media Outreach

  • Four new Changan models debuted in Mexico: CHANGAN Alsvin PLUS, CS35 MAX, new CS55 PLUS, and CS75 PLUS.
  • With responsive powertrains, intelligent safety and spacious interiors, the four models delivered proven performance and comfort.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 March 2026 – Changan has launched four all-new upgraded models in Mexico—the CHANGAN ALSVIN PLUS sedan and three SUVs: the CS35 MAX, CS55 PLUS, and CS75 PLUS—responding to growing market demand for vehicles that integrate technology and efficiency.

Following the launch, more than 150 dealers, investors, and media had a 287-km test drive across Yucatán Peninsula as part of the 2026 Changan Global Testing Season. The route, from Cancún to Playa del Carmen via Chiquilá and Holbox, spanned highways, coastal roads, and rural paths, where stability, intelligence, safety, and long-distance comfort were proven.

Performance Meets Comfort: New Models for Every Journey

Powered by the BlueCore 3.0 engine and 7-speed DCT, the new CHANGAN CS55 PLUS delivered responsive performance across the route. Its Ark Cage body structure combined with 12 intelligent safety features, including IACC, LCC, FCW, and AEB, and 540° camera assist, provided reassuring protection on the rugged and windy jungle roads and coastal highways.

The ADAS system was also integrated into the CS75 PLUS to reduce driver fatigue, while the 37-inch triple-screen display provided easy access to navigation and entertainment. The ventilated front seats ensured comfort in temperatures exceeding 30°C, and the zero-gravity passenger seat enhanced relaxation with a massage function during extended drives.

All four models feature multi-screen smart cockpits with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, voice control, OTA updates, and remote app control. Spacious interiors and the BlueCore 3.0 powertrain system also extend to the Alsvin PLUS and CS35 MAX, delivering a blend of performance and comfort.

Growth in Action: Changan’s Local Commitment to Mexico

In 2025, Changan achieved over 56% sales growth in Latin America, with Mexico growing 184%. In terms of local operations, a new 8,000+ m² parts warehouse, operational in early 2026, will further enhance service capacity and parts supply. Mexico has become increasingly central to Changan’s global footprint.

This commitment was on full display in Yucatán. The route captured the country’s iconic landscapes while reflecting real-world driving conditions: unpredictable weather and varied terrain. Changan’s expanded portfolio reaffirms its dedication to delivering products that combine global innovation with local needs.

Hashtag: #Changan

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/15/2026-changan-global-testing-season-hits-mexico-with-four-new-models/

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Fire Safety – Total fire ban as risk escalates in parts of Nelson and Tasman Districts

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand will enforce bans and restrictions on outdoor fires in much of the Nelson-Tasman area from tomorrow morning (Monday 16 March) due to the escalating fire risk.
This includes a Prohibited Fire Season in the Coastal, Waimea and Lake Rotoiti fire zones, where all outdoor fires will be completely banned, and a Restricted Fire Season in the Murchison zone, where outdoor fires will require a permit.
Announcing the fire season changes, District Manager Grant Haywood said no further permits would be issued until conditions ease across the area. Recent rain has not had a significant impact on the underlying fire risk, and he urged people not to be complacent.
“Fires will start and spread very easily and will be more challenging for our firefighters to contain and put out in these conditions,” he said. “If anyone sees signs of smoke, please call 111 immediately.”
Anyone considering an outdoor fire can easily see whether their location is covered by the total ban or the restricted fire season by going to www.checkitsalright.nz
Notes: 
The Coastal, Waimea and Lake Rotoiti fire zones incorporate most of the land within the Nelson and Tasman Districts, extending from and including Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Lakes National Park, Kahurangi National Park (east of the Mt Arthur Range), Richmond Ranges and all of the areas of the Waimea Plains and urban settlements.
The Murchison zone runs from west of Glenhope and includes Longford, Mangles Valley, Matakitaki, Shenandoah and Murchison township. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/15/fire-safety-total-fire-ban-as-risk-escalates-in-parts-of-nelson-and-tasman-districts/

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The CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 Arrives in the UK—Engineered Globally, Tuned Locally

Source: Media Outreach

  • Long range, premium comfort, and five-star safety—the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 delivers a high-tech electric driving experience.
  • Cutting-edge EV technology that brings together global design, engineering, and manufacturing.

BIRMINGHAM, UK – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2026 – Changan UK has launched the all-electric CHANGAN DEEPAL S05, a compact C-SUV blending premium design, intelligent technology, and everyday practicality.

“The CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 is designed for people who want an electric SUV that fits effortlessly into everyday life,” Nic Thomas, Managing Director of Changan UK, said, “It delivers reassuring performance, thoughtful comfort, and technology that simply works—all without the premium price tag. “

The CHANGAN DEEPAL S05: Range, Comfort, Safety

Powered by a 68.8kWh LFP battery, the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 delivers WLTP ranges of up to 303 miles (RWD) and 278 miles (AWD). Inside, the aircraft-inspired cockpit features vegan leather heated and ventilated front seats, including a full-recline zero gravity passenger seat. A 15.4-inch rotating touchscreen, AR-HUD, 14-speaker audio system, and wireless smartphone connectivity complete the high-tech cabin.

Safety is central to the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05, earning it a five-star Euro NCAP rating. It comes standard with 17 intelligent driver assistance systems, enabling L2 autonomous driving through a network of cameras, radars, and ultrasonic sensors—including a 540-degree surround-view camera system.

More Than a Model: How the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 Embodies a Global Vision

Changan is now present in 16 European markets, with launches in Italy, Spain, and Poland coming soon. The UK anchors this footprint as a strategic hub for local development. Leading this momentum is the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05, a model built on a truly global foundation. Designed at Changan Design Center Europe in Turin and calibrated at the Changan UK R&D Centre in Birmingham, it has been meticulously tuned for local roads.

For the UK market, the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 is produced at Changan Rayong Factory in Thailand—established in 2023 as a dedicated hub for global right-hand drive markets. With approximately 60% local sourcing, the facility ensures consistent quality, testing, and supply, while its strategic location enables worldwide logistics. More than a new model, the S05 stands as a testament to Changan’s global ambitions—integrating design, engineering, and production across continents to deliver a truly international electric vehicle.

Hashtag: #Changan

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/15/the-changan-deepal-s05-arrives-in-the-uk-engineered-globally-tuned-locally/

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The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers 50th Anniversary “Together we RISE” Carnival Opens

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2026 – To celebrate its 50th Anniversary, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (hereafter “the HKIE”) has organised “The HKIE ‘Together we RISE’ Carnival” (hereafter “the Carnival”) at High Lawn, Art Park, WestK. The opening ceremony took place today, officiated by Ms Bernadette LINN Hon Ho, JP, Secretary for Development of the HKSAR Government; Mr YE Shuiqiu, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Ir Ricky LAU Chun Kit, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works); and Ir The Hon Aaron BOK Kwok Ming, Legislative Council Member (Functional Constituency – Engineering) cum Past President of the HKIE. They were joined by Ir Alice CHOW, President of the HKIE; Ir Prof Frank CHAN Fan, GBS, JP, Senior Vice President of the HKIE; Ir Rupert LEUNG Kwok Yiu, Vice President of the HKIE; Ir William LUK Wai Lam, Vice President of the HKIE and Ir Prof Alfred SIT Wing Hang, GBS, JP, Chief Executive and Secretary of the HKIE to kick off this two-day event.

Group Photo of officiating guests at the Opening Ceremony, including Ms Bernadette LINN Hon Ho, JP, Secretary for Development(4th right); Mr YE Shuiqiu, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region(4th left); Ir Ricky LAU Chun Kit, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works) (3rd left); Ir The Hon Aaron BOK Kwok Ming, Legislative Council Member (Functional Constituency – Engineering) cum Past President of the HKIE(3rd right); Ir Alice CHOW, President of the HKIE(middle); Ir Prof Frank CHAN Fan, GBS, JP, Senior Vice President of the HKIE (2nd left); Ir Rupert LEUNG Kwok Yiu, Vice President of the HKIE(2nd right); Ir William LUK Wai Lam, Vice President of the HKIE(1st right); and Ir Prof Alfred SIT Wing Hang, GBS, JP, Chief Executive and Secretary of the HKIE(1st left).

With the theme “Together we RISE”, the Carnival aims to highlight the engineering profession’s outstanding contributions to social progress, technological innovation, and sustainable development. Running from 14-15 March, the Carnival features over 40 interactive booths and game zones designed by various organisations and HKIE divisions. The booths showcase exciting innovations including robot and robot dog demonstrations, model displays, VR experiences, UAV flight simulators, a water pumping robot, and more, offering enjoyable, hands-on exploration of the diversity and fun of engineering for the whole family over the weekend.

The Carnival also features a travelling exhibition, “Engineering Legacy: 50 Years of Excellence”, celebrating 19 excellent engineering projects honoured with The HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award. The exhibition highlights the remarkable achievements and milestones that have shaped Hong Kong’s engineering landscape over the past five decades. In addition, the winning entries from the “Together we RISE” school competition held by the HKIE earlier will be showcased, reflecting the creativity and imagination of the younger generation in building sustainable and innovative cities.

Ir Alice CHOW, President of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, remarked, “The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers has grown alongside Hong Kong over the past 50 years, witnessing and contributing to many of the city’s landmark infrastructure and urban development projects. Through the Carnival, we hope the public can gain a deeper understanding of the vital role engineers play in society, while inspiring the younger generation’s interest and creativity in the engineering profession. ‘Together we RISE’ is not just a theme; it also expresses our commitment to fostering innovation, uniting the industry, and building the future, leveraging Hong Kong’s unique advantages of being ‘backed by our motherland and connected to the world’!”

The HKIE 50th Anniversary “Together we RISE” Carnival

Date and time: 14 March 2026 (Sat) 10am-6pm

15 March 2026 (Sun) 10am-6pm
Location: High Lawn, Art Park, WestK
Fee: Free of charge

Hashtag: #HKIE

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/the-hong-kong-institution-of-engineers-50th-anniversary-together-we-rise-carnival-opens/

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AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre Opens at AIA Central

Source: Media Outreach

Elevating the High-Net-Worth and Ultra-High Net-Worth Experience through Orchestrated Wealth and Legacy Advisory

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2026 – AIA Hong Kong announced the opening of the AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre at AIA Central, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of AIA Alta, its exclusive proposition for High‑Net‑Worth (HNW)1 and Ultra‑High‑Net‑Worth (UHNW) customers2. Purpose‑built in Central, the Centre is housed within AIA Central—a landmark commercial building wholly owned by AIA Group—at the heart of the city’s financial district. The Centre is designed to serve customers with increasingly complex, multi‑market wealth, health and legacy planning needs through a highly integrated and personalised advisory experience.

Mr Lee Yuan Siong, AIA Group Chief Executive and President (fourth from left); Mr Jacky Chan, AIA Regional Chief Executive and Group Chief Distribution Officer (fourth from right); Mr Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer, AIA Hong Kong & Macau (third from left); Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer, AIA Hong Kong & Macau (third from right); Ms Amy Chan, Chief Agency Officer, AIA Hong Kong & Macau (second from left); Ms Myra Lee, Chief Financial Officer, AIA Hong Kong & Macau (second from right); Ms Melissa Wong, Chief Customer & Marketing Officer, AIA Hong Kong & Macau (first from left); and Ms Carol Li, Chief Life Officer (first from right), AIA Hong Kong & Macau, celebrated the opening of the AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre.

Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said: “Since 2023, we have continued to strengthen our HNW proposition and see strong growth potential in this segment. In an increasingly dynamic global environment, enduring wealth, health and legacy planning have become more critical than ever.

Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said that AIA Alta is extending its proposition to the UHNW segment, with the opening of the AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre marking a pivotal step in this journey.

We are elevating the HNW experience and expanding into the UHNW market as these customers seek more than insurance—looking for coordinated wealth and legacy advisory from a long-term partner who can guide them through complexity with clarity and confidence. The opening of the AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre is a pivotal step, supported by our HNW Dedicated Team and international partners, to help customers achieve an optimal balance of health and wealth.”

At the Heart of Hong Kong’s Financial District

Formerly known as the AIA Alta Wealth Management Centre in Causeway Bay, the Centre was established as the first# of its kind within Hong Kong’s insurance industry to provide professional wealth management services. Now housed within AIA Central, the AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre& offers unparalleled proximity to the city’s financial ecosystem. This strategic location enables seamless connection with private banks, professional firms and international institutions that play a critical role in multi‑market wealth structuring and legacy planning.

The AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre is designed to serve HNW and UHNW customers with increasingly complex, multi market wealth, health and legacy planning needs through a highly integrated and personalised advisory experience.

A Refined Advisory Experience

The Centre has been purpose‑designed to deliver a more orchestrated and holistic advisory experience. Supported by AIA’s HNW Dedicated Team and a network of international organisations, HNW customers can access advisory services on trust, legacy, tax, legal and family office matters within a single private setting. By bringing these capabilities together across every stage of the wealth and legacy planning journey, the Centre reduces fragmentation and empowers customers to make more confident, informed decisions.

A distinctive feature of the Centre is its bespoke hospitality offering, with dining prepared by AIA’s own corporate dining team. Thoughtfully curated food and beverage selections complement advisory engagements within a calm and private environment. Visitors may also explore the History Wall, which traces AIA Group’s century‑long legacy in Asia and its enduring commitment to customers across generations, while enjoying panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, taking in Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and landmarks such as the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, taking in Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and landmarks.

Purpose‑Led Design

Guided by AIA’s commitment to sustainability, the Centre’s design reflects ESG‑informed principles through material storytelling. Reclaimed elements—from ocean‑recovered fragments to repurposed glass, metal and wood—are thoughtfully re‑crafted to symbolise restoration, renewal and continuity, expressing AIA Alta’s belief that sustainability is a lived philosophy that preserves value, honours origins and supports enduring legacies across generations.

The Centre’s design reflects ESG informed principles through material storytelling.

A Trusted Proposition for HNW Families

The strength of the AIA Alta proposition is underpinned by strong customer recognition. For years, AIA has been recognised as Hong Kong’s most popular insurance brand among HNW individuals%, reflecting sustained trust in its ability to support HNW families. Looking ahead, AIA Alta will continue to support customers through its integrated pillars of Wealth and Health, complemented by meaningful experiences and curated privileges offered through AIA Alta Club—empowering customers to truly live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.

Visitors may also explore the History Wall, which traces AIA Group’s century long legacy in Asia and its enduring commitment to customers across generations.

Remarks:

1 High‑Net‑Worth customer means a customer with investable wealth of US$1 million to US$30 million.

2 Ultra‑High‑Net‑Worth customer means a customer with investable wealth of more than US$30 million.

# As of 1 March 2023, compared with similar services offered by major Hong Kong insurance companies.

& AIA Alta Prestige Wealth Centre is available by invitation only.

% According to YouGov, an international research and data analytics company, Hong Kong BrandIndex 2022-2025, AIA has been the Most Considered Insurance Brand and is Most Likely to Be Purchased among the High-Net-Worth customers in Hong Kong (individuals with total investable assets exceeding US$ 1 million) for four consecutive years (from 2022 to 2025).

Important Information:

  • The above information provided herein shall not be construed as providing, selling, or soliciting the purchase of any insurance products or services outside Hong Kong and/or Macau, nor does it constitute any sales advice, product recommendation, or any form of service offer. Where the offering or sale of insurance products is prohibited under the laws of any jurisdiction outside Hong Kong and/or Macau, AIA shall not engage in such activities within that jurisdiction. AIA does not provide or sell insurance products or services in any territory other than Hong Kong and/or Macau. The above information is for reference purposes only and does not include detailed terms, conditions, or risk disclosures associated with the relevant products.
  • AIA reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate the Services, any part thereof, service provider(s) or change any terms and conditions relating thereto at any time without prior notice at its absolute discretion.


Hashtag: #AIA

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/aia-alta-prestige-wealth-centre-opens-at-aia-central/

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NZ-AU: The Middle East: Impact of the U.S.–Israel War on Iran and Challenges for U.S. Expats

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Dubai, UAE, March 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expat US Tax has released an analysis examining how recent geopolitical developments in the Middle East are affecting Americans living and traveling across the region. The review focuses on practical issues that U.S. expats may encounter, including travel disruptions, embassy advisories, and day-to-day logistical challenges as governments monitor security developments.

Impact of the U.S.–Israel War on Iran and Challenges for U.S. Expats

Over the past several weeks, tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran have led to heightened security alerts and precautionary measures across parts of the Middle East. Governments in several countries have issued travel advisories, increased security measures around infrastructure and transportation networks, and temporarily adjusted airspace access in response to regional developments.

These changes have had a direct impact on international travel. Airlines operating across the Middle East have modified flight routes or temporarily suspended certain services when airspace restrictions were introduced. In some cases, travelers have experienced delays or cancellations as airlines adjusted operations to maintain safe flight paths.

For Americans living in the region, these developments can affect routine activities such as business travel, family visits, or relocation plans. Large American expatriate communities reside in countries including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Israel, and Kuwait, where many work in sectors such as energy, aviation, finance, education, and international business.

Clark Stott, Director at Expat US Tax, said that events affecting regional transportation or embassy operations can have practical implications for Americans living abroad.

“Americans living overseas often manage international travel, cross-border employment, and family commitments in multiple countries,” Stott said. “When regional developments affect transportation or consular services, expatriates may need to adjust travel plans or monitor official government guidance more closely.”

Government agencies have encouraged citizens abroad to stay informed through official advisories and embassy updates. U.S. citizens living overseas may receive updates through embassy communications, travel advisories, and emergency notification systems designed to provide timely information during rapidly evolving situations.

Travel and Embassy Operations

One of the most immediate effects of regional instability is the adjustment of aviation routes and airport operations. Airlines may reroute flights to avoid restricted airspace, while airports can temporarily limit operations if security concerns arise. These changes may result in longer travel times or limited flight availability between international hubs.

Embassy services may also adjust operations during periods of heightened security awareness. While most diplomatic missions continue to provide routine consular services, embassies may issue additional guidance for citizens or temporarily modify staffing levels depending on local conditions.

For Americans abroad, embassy communication channels often serve as an important source of information. Citizens can receive updates regarding local developments, travel advisories, or recommended safety precautions.

Considerations for U.S. Expats

For expatriates living in the Middle East, the most common impacts tend to involve logistical and planning considerations rather than direct security concerns. Travel arrangements, visa timelines, and relocation plans can be affected when airlines modify schedules or when governments introduce temporary travel guidance.

Many expatriates also maintain connections across multiple countries, making regional mobility an important part of daily life. Business travelers, contractors, educators, and international employees may rely on regional flights between Gulf cities, Europe, and Asia. Changes in aviation routes or airport operations can therefore influence professional schedules and personal travel.

In these situations, experts generally recommend monitoring official government advisories and maintaining flexibility in travel planning. Staying informed through embassy updates and airline notifications can help expatriates respond to changing travel conditions.

U.S. Tax Considerations for Americans Abroad

In addition to travel logistics, Americans living overseas continue to manage ongoing financial and tax obligations in the United States. Unlike most countries, the United States taxes its citizens based on citizenship rather than residency. As a result, U.S. citizens living abroad generally remain required to file annual U.S. tax returns if their income exceeds certain thresholds.

For expatriates who move between countries or adjust employment arrangements due to regional developments, maintaining accurate financial records can be especially important. Changes in residency, employment contracts, or income sources may affect how certain tax provisions apply.

Clark Stott noted that geopolitical developments sometimes highlight the complexity of financial planning for Americans abroad.

“Even during periods of regional uncertainty, U.S. tax filing requirements continue to apply,” Stott said. “For expatriates who relocate, change employment, or move between countries, maintaining organized financial records and understanding filing obligations can help avoid compliance issues later.”

U.S. expats may also rely on provisions such as the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and foreign tax credits, which are designed to help reduce double taxation for Americans working overseas.

Looking Ahead

While governments and international organizations continue to monitor developments across the Middle East, many analysts note that travel conditions and security advisories can evolve quickly during periods of geopolitical tension.

For Americans living abroad, access to accurate information and reliable guidance remains important. Monitoring embassy communications, staying informed about travel advisories, and maintaining awareness of administrative obligations can help expatriates navigate changing conditions while continuing their work and daily life overseas.

About Expat US Tax

Expat US Tax is an advisory firm that assists U.S. citizens living abroad with tax compliance, planning, and reporting obligations. The firm provides tax preparation and advisory services to Americans residing in more than 190 countries, helping expatriates navigate the complexities of U.S. citizenship-based taxation.

Press Inquiries

Clark Stott
info@expatustax.com
https://www.expatustax.com/

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/nz-au-the-middle-east-impact-of-the-u-s-israel-war-on-iran-and-challenges-for-u-s-expats/

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NZ-AU: Innovative Aluminium And Glass Expands Custom Aluminium Window and Door Installation Services in Sydney

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Villawood, NSW, March 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Innovative Aluminium And Glass announces the expansion of its custom fabrication and installation services for aluminium windows and doors across the Sydney metropolitan area.

Based in Villawood, the company manufactures and supplies a variety of glass and aluminium solutions for residential and commercial properties. All products are built to meet the technical standards of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), the Australian Glass and Window Association (AGWA), and the Master Builders Association guidelines during on-site installation work to maintain structural integrity and safety. The company’s recent expansion highlights its commitment to helping home and business owners elevate the aesthetics of their spaces with stress-free window and door installations.

“All the products are created as per your needs and we guarantee customer satisfaction each time,” said Joe Ghaddar, owner of Innovative Aluminium And Glass. “This is achieved by following the HIA, AGWA, and Master Builders Association standards.”

From residential installations to large-scale commercial projects, Innovative Aluminium And Glass provides end-to-end manufacturing and fitting services. Key advantages include:

Custom Door Configurations

The company builds modern aluminium bifold doors, French doors, and sliding systems tailored to specific wall openings. These units use heavy-duty tracks and hardware to support large glass panels, creating wide openings for indoor-outdoor transitions in residential homes.

Specialised Window Styles

Installations include energy-efficient aluminium windows available in double-hung, louvre, awning, and sliding configurations. Each frame undergoes precision cutting and assembly at the Villawood facility to ensure airtight seals against wind and rain, improving building performance.

Commercial Glass Solutions

The team installs commercial aluminium windows and doors for retail storefronts, office buildings, and industrial facilities across Sydney, using reinforced frames and specialized glass to withstand high traffic volumes while meeting local building safety codes and requirements.

Double Glazing Options

Catering to both residential and commercial clients in both the Sydney and Canberra regions, the company supplies a reliable range of dual-pane glass units for both windows and doors to increase thermal insulation and reduce external noise levels inside the property.

Sliding System Engineering

Innovative Aluminium And Glass offers a selection of frames in multiple powder-coated finishes, allowing property owners to match the hardware to their existing architectural color schemes. The precision-engineered aluminium sliding door systems feature smooth-gliding rollers and secure locking mechanisms for ease of use and property protection.

Direct Manufacturing Model

By manufacturing products in-house, the company controls the entire production cycle from raw material selection to the final installation. This direct manufacturing model enables Innovative Aluminium And Glass to offer custom sizing for non-standard openings and ensures oversight of frame durability and glass quality.

Innovative Aluminium And Glass invites property owners to visit its website to request a free quote for window and door services today.

About Innovative Aluminium And Glass

Innovative Aluminium And Glass is a window and door specialist based in Villawood, NSW. The company serves the Sydney metropolitan area by providing custom-built frames for various property types. From initial design and manufacturing to final on-site fitting, Innovative Aluminium And Glass manages the full lifecycle of product development to ensure all installations meet local safety requirements and client specifications.

More Information

To learn more about Innovative Aluminium And Glass and the expansion of its aluminium window and door solutions in Sydney, please visit the website at https://aluminiumwindowsanddoors.net.au/.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: What is the new expansion from Innovative Aluminium And Glass in Sydney?

A: Innovative Aluminium And Glass has announced the expansion of its custom fabrication and installation services for aluminium windows and doors across the Sydney metropolitan area. This expansion focuses on providing end-to-end manufacturing for residential and commercial projects, including specialized bifold doors, sliding systems, and energy-efficient window configurations produced at their Villawood facility.

Q2: Who is Innovative Aluminium And Glass and what are their credentials?

A: Innovative Aluminium And Glass is a premier window and door specialist based in Villawood, NSW, serving the Sydney and Canberra regions. Under the leadership of owner Joe Ghaddar, the company manufactures products that meet the rigorous technical standards of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), the Australian Glass and Window Association (AGWA), and the Master Builders Association.

Q3: What custom aluminium and glass products does the company offer?

A: The company provides a wide range of custom-built solutions including modern aluminium bifold doors, French doors, and precision-engineered sliding systems. Their window lineup features double-hung, louvre, awning, and sliding styles, with specialized double glazing options available to improve thermal insulation and reduce external noise levels for both homes and businesses.

Q4: How does Innovative Aluminium And Glass handle commercial and residential installations?

A: The company utilizes a direct manufacturing model to manage the full product lifecycle from raw material selection to final on-site fitting. For residential clients, they focus on indoor-outdoor transitions and aesthetic hardware, while commercial services include reinforced frames and specialized glass for high-traffic retail storefronts and office buildings that must meet local safety codes.

Q5: How can I get a quote for aluminium window or door installation in Sydney?

A: Property owners can request a free, no-obligation quote by visiting the official website at aluminiumwindowsanddoors.net.au or by calling 1800 679 661. Innovative Aluminium And Glass provides custom sizing for non-standard openings and manages the entire design and installation process to ensure customer satisfaction and structural integrity.

https://thenewsfront.com/innovative-aluminium-and-glass-expands-custom-aluminium-window-and-door-installation-services-in-sydney/

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/nz-au-innovative-aluminium-and-glass-expands-custom-aluminium-window-and-door-installation-services-in-sydney/

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ACE ROBOTICS Open-Sources Real-Time Generative World Model Kairos 3.0-4B

Source: Media Outreach

  • A native world model built from the ground up for embodied intelligence, Kairos 3.0-4B delivers exceptional physics-consistent deep understanding and cross-embodiment generalization, enabling a single “brain” to drive robots of multiple form factors.
  • Kairos 3.0-4B leverages a unified “multi-modal understanding-generation-prediction” architecture for physical-level deep understanding, long-horizon dynamic interaction, precise action control, and long-horizon interaction — 7-minute coherent interaction videos set a new industry benchmark.
  • As a lightweight 4B-parameter model, Kairos 3.0-4B outperforms mainstream embodied world models while delivering industry-leading inference efficiency. It achieves real-time edge generation on the THOR platform with a1:1.5 ratio of generation time to video duration, leading performance across both cloud and edge environments.
  • Kairos 3.0-4B achieves top-ranking accuracy across multiple authoritative benchmarks. Furthermore, leveraging model capabilities and inference tooling, its inference speed is 72 times faster than Cosmos 2.5, setting a new global performance record for embodied world models.

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – ACE ROBOTICS announced the open-source release of Kairos 3.0-4B, the industry’s first native world model for embodied intelligence to realize unified “multi-modal understanding-generation-prediction” within a single architecture. As the technical cornerstone of the company’s “Human-Centric” ACE Embodied Intelligence R&D Paradigm, Kairos 3.0-4B is designed from the ground up for real-world robotic operation — integrating physical laws, human behavior, and real robot actions to deliver physics-consistent deep understanding of the real world.

The prevailing approach to embodied world models has largely involved retrofitting general-purpose large language or vision models with motion interfaces. Kairos 3.0-4B takes a fundamentally different path. Rather than appending motion capabilities onto existing model architectures, it is built from the architectural level around the fundamental physical and causal laws that govern real-world environments, constructing a unified world-understanding framework capable of cross-embodiment generalization. By embedding causal reasoning chains directly into its decision-making process, the model transcends behavioral imitation and achieves what ACE ROBOTICS defines as physical-level deep understanding — enabling robots to not only know what to do, but to understand why. Its core breakthrough lies in the deep integration of three categories of data: real robot interaction data, structured human behavioral data, and chain-of-thought reasoning data, effectively breaking down multi-source data barriers and significantly improving the reuse efficiency of real-world data.

A landmark achievement of this release is Kairos 3.0-4B’s real-time edge deployment capability. Deployed on the NVIDIA Jetson Thor T5000 platform at 517 TFLOPs, it is the world’s first embodied world model to achieve real-time generation on edge hardware — achieving a 1.5x faster-than-real-time generation speed on the THOR platform — and the first capable of directly driving physical robot bodies for real-world task execution through native edge deployment. The model issues full-body control commands spanning upper limbs, fingers, and lower limbs without intermediate control layers, enabling robots to move from “capable of performing” to genuinely “capable of working.”

Kairos 3.0-4B also delivers a breakthrough in long-horizon interaction. By combining its unified architecture with Agent-based hierarchical planning and a self-reflective iterative optimization mechanism, the model generates coherent future-state predictions up to 7 minutes in length while maintaining full scene coherence and physical fidelity throughout — setting a new industry benchmark for long-horizon embodied interaction and opening new pathways for embodied intelligence training and deployment.

On the A800 GPU benchmark, Kairos 3.0-4B’s inference speed surpasses NVIDIA Cosmos 2.5 by 72 times, setting a new global performance record for embodied world models. This performance is delivered with a lightweight footprint of just 4B parameters and 23.5GB of VRAM — a fraction of Cosmos 2.5’s 70.2GB requirement — demonstrating that efficiency and capability need not be in tension and fundamentally challenging the assumption that larger parameters are a prerequisite for superior performance. The model has also achieved top rankings across three authoritative global benchmarks: PAI-Bench-robot, co-developed by Georgia Tech and CMU; WorldModelBench-robot TI2V, introduced at CVPR 2025; and NVIDIA GEAR Lab’s DreamGen Bench, outperforming all evaluated models on physical consistency and instruction-following metrics.

In A800 GPU benchmarks, Kairos 3.0-4B achieves order-of-magnitude breakthroughs in compute efficiency and inference speed

Supporting seamless cross-embodiment deployment across single-arm, dual-arm, and dexterous hand configurations with no additional per-embodiment training required, Kairos 3.0-4B is compatible with major hardware platforms including Agilex PIPER, Unitree G1, and Galaxy G1. Kairos 3.0-4B is now available on Github (https://github.com/kairos-agi/kairos-sensenova) and Hugging Face (https://huggingface.co/kairos-agi/kairos-sensenova-common).

https://www.linkedin.com/company/acerobotics/posts/?feedView=all&viewAsMember=true｜
https://x.com/ace_robotics

Hashtag: #ACEROBOTICS

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/ace-robotics-open-sources-real-time-generative-world-model-kairos-3-0-4b/

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International migration: January 2026 – Stats NZ information release

 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/international-migration-january-2026-stats-nz-information-release/

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International travel: January 2026 – Stats NZ information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/international-travel-january-2026-stats-nz-information-release/

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OPPO and Google Partner to Redefine Productivity for Foldable Devices with Next-Gen AI Stylus Experience

Source: Media Outreach

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – OPPO, a leading global smart device brand, is deepening its collaboration with Google Cloud to reimagine AI-powered productivity on its upcoming Find N6 foldable flagship with the new OPPO AI Pen.

Kai Tang, President of Software Engineering at OPPO, said: “OPPO’s close collaboration with partners like Google Cloud enables us to bring the latest and most advanced AI experiences to our users. Featuring powerful AI capabilities, we have evolved the traditional stylus into the innovative OPPO AI Pen, marking a significant leap in efficiency for the foldable smartphone experience.”

AI Chart and AI Image: Next-Level Productivity with OPPO AI Pen

The upcoming Find N6 will launch together with the OPPO AI Pen, featuring exclusive AI Chart and AI Image functions built with Google Cloud’s cutting-edge AI capabilities.

While taking notes or sketching ideas with a stylus helps capture inspiration quickly, translating handwritten drafts into polished, professional formats has always been a challenge. With AI Chart built with Gemini Pro, users can press the dedicated side button on the OPPO AI Pen and simply circle their handwritten notes to instantly generate a clean, editable digital table, allowing for faster information organization in meetings, planning sessions, and daily work.

Beyond text and charts, the AI Image feature is built with Nano Banana, and further expands creative possibilities by transforming simple doodles into refined artwork. Users can even provide specific text prompts to guide the AI, reimagining their drawings in any style, from classic oil painting textures to modern digital art.

Enhanced Cross-Ecosystem Sharing

OPPO is also collaborating with Google to bring AndroidTM Quick Share compatibility with Apple devices to Find N6. In the coming weeks, users will be able to send photos, videos, and files directly to Apple devices—with no additional apps required, advancing cross-ecosystem connection.

Next-Level Productivity on Find N6

These advanced productivity-enhancing features of ColorOS 16 will be fully integrated into the upcoming OPPO Find N6, delivering a high-performance and seamless experience from the very first touch. By combining OPPO’s advanced hardware with Google’s AI capabilities, Find N6 is set to turn the foldable device into a true mobile workstation, empowering users to create, collaborate, and communicate like never before.

Disclaimer: AI Chart is built with Gemini 2.5 Pro, while AI Image is built with Nano Banana (Gemini 2.5 Flash Image).

*Google, Android and Quick Share are trademarks of Google LLC.

Hashtag: #OPPO

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/oppo-and-google-partner-to-redefine-productivity-for-foldable-devices-with-next-gen-ai-stylus-experience/

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“Created for Ease”: ECOVACS Brand Campaign Honors Caregivers Across the APAC Region

Source: Media Outreach

For the past 20 years, ECOVACS has been driven by a fearless spirit of innovation to solve complex challenges and continuously advance the user experience. The pioneering intelligent technologies in the ECOVACS DEEBOT robotic vacuums and WINBOT robotic window cleaners, such as the OMNI Station, OZMO ROLLER technology, and PowerBoost technology have set new industry benchmarks and become the hidden heroes for every home, designed to help users clean every corner of their home with minimal effort.

Now ECOVACS is bringing this same innovation spirit to help ease the burdens faced by caregivers in the APAC region. As part of its brand campaign, ECOVACS is planning to cooperate with select like-minded local partners across the region, such as Enabling Village in Singapore. Enabling Village is an integrated community space that aims to empower caregivers for people with disabilities by providing them with resources to manage their responsibilities and enhance their quality of life. ECOVACS will provide Enabling Village caregivers with DEEBOT robotic vacuum cleaners to help ease their burdens and enable them to spend more time on themselves.

“Caring for a child with special needs requires lots of time and patience. And it can be challenging to find moments when I can focus on myself,” says Yvette Wang. “I’m grateful to ECOVACS and their efforts to assist caregivers. With their DEEBOT robotic vacuum I now have one less thing to manage, as I can leave DEEBOT to take care of our floors, and itself.”

To commemorate their partnership, ECOVACS and Enabling Village have invited Yvette’s son, artist @Eli_lailai, to specially design some exclusive merchandise. This collaboration was made possible through I’mable Collective, an initiative by SG Enable that supports and empowers persons with disabilities by providing training and employment opportunities within the creative sector.

An Ecosystem that Empowers Ease

ECOVACS’ efforts to continually strengthen its leadership in service robotics are rooted in its deep understanding of users’ needs. Its regionally tailored brand idea “Created for Ease – Always in Your Corner” reflects the brand’s desire to tailor its mission of ‘Robotics for All’ to shape a better future for users in the APAC region with robots that can seamlessly serve every home, everywhere.

The industry-leading cleaning technologies pioneered by ECOVACS demonstrate its dedication to reducing human effort while maximizing cleaning precision and efficiency, all with the aim of offering dependable cleaning experiences tailored to the needs of today’s households. ECOVACS’ service robots offer users more ease by bringing efficient, effortless cleaning to every corner of their household.

“Always in Your Corner” reflects how ECOVACS’ home service robotics ecosystem is designed for users in the APAC region – to support their full-home scenarios, from floors to windows. The ECOVACS DEEBOT robotic vacuums and WINBOT robotic window cleaners are built to handle what must be done — quietly, consistently, and intelligently. They don’t just clean, they leave users with less to manage.

Amplifying a Message of Care

ECOVACS will extend the impact of this brand campaign across multiple touchpoints in key APAC markets, including Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, India, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Through localized partnerships, integrated brand storytelling, and community engagement, ECOVACS aims to honor caregivers as well as those across the region who are seeking a less stressful and more balanced life.

Intelligent. Innovative. Intuitive.

From its DEEBOT family of robotic vacuum cleaners to its WINBOT family of robotic window cleaners, all of ECOVACS’ innovations are backed by its well-established vertically integrated supply chain and independently developed technologies spanning batteries, AI, motors, transmission components and more.

Today, ECOVACS serves over 38 million households across nearly 180 markets worldwide. Its mission — “Robotics for All” — reflects a long-term commitment to making intelligent service robotics accessible, reliable, and seamlessly integrated into everyday life.

“Created for Ease” is not only about cleaning better. It’s about living lighter and reducing what needs your attention – so that you can focus on what truly matters. And in doing so, ECOVACS is always in your corner.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/created-for-ease-ecovacs-brand-campaign-honors-caregivers-across-the-apac-region/

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GrabForGood Fund Increases Commitment to US$3.2 Million for 2026 to Education and Community Resilience Programmes across Southeast Asia

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – Grab, a leading super app in Southeast Asia, today announced a US$3.2 million commitment for 2026 from the GrabForGood Fund, an endowment dedicated to supporting its partners and the community-at-large. This latest allocation will fund programmes across Southeast Asia to support the Fund’s three core pillars: Education, Community Care, and Disaster Relief.

Đặng Phương Ngân, one of Vietnam’s first GrabScholar recipients in 2025

The 2026 roadmap includes the flagship GrabScholar programme, which provides bursaries for underprivileged school-going children and full-ride merit scholarships for students with demonstrated financial need and strong academic potential, as well as health and meal nutrition programmes for schools.

The GrabForGood Fund was established by Grab to ensure the company’s success is directly shared with the communities it serves. This commitment was anchored by a personal contribution of over US$16 million from Grab’s Group CEO and Co-Founder, Anthony Tan, as a marker of leadership accountability to the Fund’s long-term mission, as well as additional contributions from other individual and organisational donors.

“We started the GrabForGood Fund to provide a foundation for people across Southeast Asia to build the future they want for themselves. I’ve seen first-hand the incredible resilience of our partners and our communities, yet there can be systemic barriers that are hard to overcome alone. In 2026, we aim for these programmes to be the stepping stones to better opportunities – whether by ensuring a child has a nutritious meal to focus in class, or providing a student with a full scholarship to reach university and create new possibilities for their family’s future,” said Anthony Tan, Group CEO and Co-Founder of Grab.

2025 Programme Highlights

The 2026 commitment builds on a year of significant momentum. In 2025, the GrabForGood Fund disbursed more than US$2 million, directly supporting over 3,600 students in the GrabScholar programme across Southeast Asia with bursaries and full-ride merit scholarships. The Fund also backed a suite of community initiatives to support caregiving networks, address school nutrition to improve educational outcomes, and foster learning and innovation development across Southeast Asia.

Since its inception in 2022, the GrabScholar programme has supported 8,238 students across Southeast Asia, including driver- and merchant-partners and their immediate family members, as well as members of the public. In 2025 alone, 3,486 school-going children received GrabScholar bursaries, and 117 university students were awarded full-ride merit scholarships. The programme expanded to Thailand and Vietnam last year, and is also available in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Đặng Phương Ngân is one of Vietnam’s first GrabScholar recipients in 2025, and she is pursuing Finance at the University of Economics HCMC. Her father is a Grab driver-partner and her mother is a factory cleaner. Ngân said, “Becoming a GrabScholar feels like coming full circle. My father driving with Grab opened the first door for our family. Grab now supports my education, and I hope to use it not only to build a career in finance, but to create a foundation that allows me to give back to others who are still waiting for their chance.”

In the Philippines, Rise Against Hunger Philippines launched the Dietary Supplementation Programme, with support from the GrabForGood Fund. This initiative will provide daily rice-soy meals to over 2,600 children to improve their nutrition and create a healthy learning environment.

Additional Community Initiatives

Beyond the GrabForGood Fund, Grab runs several long-standing community programmes as part of its triple bottom line commitment to deliver financial performance, while driving social impact and environmental sustainability.

In Singapore, Grab offers the Emerald Circle Scholarships, a bond-free award for children of eligible driver- and delivery-partners to study at local universities, alongside various student bursaries.

To support partner earnings and resilience, GrabAcademy provides continuous training and skills development to help driver-partners improve their earning potential. In 2025, more than 1.5 million driver-partners completed at least one GrabAcademy course. In addition, Grab runs programmes such as the Grab Women Drivers’ Programme and GrabAccess for persons with disabilities to reduce barriers to earning opportunities for the underrepresented on the platform.

There were also 17 environmental projects supported in 2025 to support local conservation, and empower consumers to make sustainable choices. This is facilitated by Grab’s in-app Green Programme feature that channels consumer contributions towards independently verified environmental projects across Southeast Asia, supporting climate action, nature conservation, and community resilience.

Hashtag: #Grab, #GrabForGood #GrabScholar #SocialGood #CommunityImpact

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/grabforgood-fund-increases-commitment-to-us3-2-million-for-2026-to-education-and-community-resilience-programmes-across-southeast-asia/

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Minister visits EIT Tairāwhiti to see workforce training and innovation

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

7 minutes ago

Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds visited EIT’s Tairāwhiti campus today to see how the newly independent institute is helping build the region’s future workforce.

During the visit, the Minister, along with East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick, toured several facilities including the Drone Research Lab, Electrical Lab, Hospitality Kitchens and the Trades Training Centre.

Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds with EIT Senior Lecturer Dr Anastasia Mozhaeva at the Tairāwhiti campus.

EIT Chief Executive Lucy Laitinen said the visit was an opportunity to highlight how the institute is supporting regional economic development.

“The Tairāwhiti Economic Plan is clear that building local capability and investing in our people is fundamental to the region’s future. Now that EIT has regained its independence, we are refocusing squarely on the needs of our region,” she said.

“That means responding to industry, whether that’s pioneering new drone technology with partners like the Port, or creating trades pathways for rangatahi through our Trades Academy. We’re committed to strengthening the regional economy by developing the workforce of both today and tomorrow.”

EIT returned to independence on January 1 following amendments in late 2025 to the Education and Training Act 2020, enabling the institute to sharpen its regional focus and strengthen collaboration with industry.

EIT Executive Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Technology John West said the institute was delighted to welcome Hon Penny Simmonds to the Tairāwhiti campus.

“During her visit, the Minister was interested in the organisation’s 2026 enrolment picture, which continues to show a return toward education across our communities with strong enrolments.”

As part of her visit, the Minister learned more about EIT’s emerging drone technology research, led by Dr Anastasia Mozhaeva and developed through a dedicated research lab supported by Trust Tairāwhiti.

John said the work explores how drone technology can be applied to business and industry while helping develop specialist skills in the region.

“Drone technology is a specialised and emerging field, and it’s an area where we see real potential for Tairāwhiti,” he said.

EIT Executive Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Technology John West with Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds EIT’s Tairāwhiti campus.

“While visiting the EIT Drone Research Lab, the Minister shared her observations around the need to connect strongly with industry. She was impressed with what EIT had achieved in an emerging technology area and encouraged us to think broadly around the technology’s application.”

The Minister also met students participating in EIT’s Trades Academy programmes, where secondary school students gain hands-on experience across a range of vocational pathways including automotive, engineering, carpentry, hospitality and electrical trades.

John said demand from local schools for Trades Academy places was strong, with enrolment numbers exceeding funded levels.

“We’ve seen incredibly strong demand from local high schools for students to participate in these programmes, which is great,” he said.
Tairāwhiti Campus Executive Director Tracey Tangihaere said the visit was an opportunity to showcase the work being done in the region.

“It was great to have the Minister here to meet some of our students, staff and community partners and to see the programmes we’re delivering in Tairāwhiti. Students and staff enjoyed talking to Minister Simmonds and sharing their passion and aspirations,” she said.

Workforce development remains a key priority in the Tairāwhiti Economic Plan, with employers continuing to face skills shortages across a range of sectors.

Hon Penny Simmonds said she enjoyed visiting EIT, and it was fantastic to see students, tutors and industry partners in action at the Tairāwhiti campus.

“Touring the Drone Research Lab, Electrical Lab, Hospitality Kitchens and the Trades Training Centre gave me a real sense of the practical learning taking place. It was also great to meet secondary school students taking part in Trades Academy programmes and getting a taste of trades training, which shows the strong relationships EIT has with local schools.

“It’s exciting to see the institute preparing students for today’s jobs while fostering innovation, and it really shows the difference a regionally governed, community-focused polytechnic can make in preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/minister-visits-eit-tairawhiti-to-see-workforce-training-and-innovation/