Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand is deeply concerned following the Justice Committee’s report recommending by majority the progression of the Summary Offences (Demonstrations Near Residential Premises) Amendment Bill.
Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand’s Kaiwhakahaere Executive Director Jacqui Dillon said, “We recognise the important privacy rights this Bill is aimed at, however we’re concerned that this Bill will have a chilling effect on protest, silencing legitimate political expression.”
Throughout history, protests have been the driving force behind some of the most powerful social movements, exposing injustice and abuse, demanding accountability, and inspiring people to keep hoping for a better future.
There are laws already in place to respond to issues such as threatening behaviour.
“We’re concerned what will be captured is protest activity that in a healthy, thriving society should not be criminalised.
“While changes have been put forward by the Justice Committee, our concern remains that the Bill is too vague. The Bill uses terms such as “near”, but what is considered “near” isn’t clear. This lack of clarity risks creating uncertainty and as a result, people may feel too uncertain about what is allowed or not, and therefore don’t protest so as not to risk the significant penalties this Bill proposes.
“Globally we are seeing authoritarian practices and serious human rights regression. Aotearoa is not immune from these trends. We are seeing policies chipping away at our foundations and a number of policies with serious human rights concerns. We worry about the precedent this Bill sets and how this framework could be abused or set us on a path towards even more restrictions.
“We recognise that there is urgent work to be done to better protect Members of Parliament (MPs) and activists. This should be carried out by engaging with people who are especially impacted to develop solutions that are effective and that uphold human rights and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This Bill is not the solution. We call on all MPs to vote against this Bill.” said Dillon.
A tough on crime approach and a near doubling of police foot patrols have driven a huge drop in the number of victims of violent crime since this Government was elected, figures show.
The latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey shows there were 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.
“Since day one, we’ve been working tirelessly to restore real consequences for crime, and to place victims back at the centre of the justice system,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“We have reformed the sentencing regime so those who cause the most harm are imprisoned for longer, given Police effective tools to deal with gangs, stopped taxpayer funding for the proliferation of cultural reports, made stalking an illegal and jailable offence, given victims of sexual assault the power to determine if offenders are granted name suppression, restored Three Strikes, and much more.”
“A higher visibility of Police in our communities goes a long way to deterring crime and keeping criminals off our streets,” Police Minister Mark Mitchell says.
“It is no coincidence that our back-to-basics approach to policing is having a positive effect on reducing violent crime. Backing our frontline has seen more Police out on the beat, with foot patrols almost doubling since coming into Government.
“Our investment into the frontline has seen 12 new and expanded beat teams stood up nationwide, including the launch of a beat team in Hamilton this week.
“Our beat officers do an outstanding job at keeping the public, businesses and retailers safe.
“We know there is a lot more to do but these results show we are heading in the right direction.”
“It’s very encouraging to see we’re continuing to track ahead of our violent crime reduction target, with there now being 49,000 fewer victims of serious violent crime than when we came into Government,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“The latest figures show 136,000 New Zealanders were victims of violent crime in the 12 months to October 2025. This huge drop in the number of people affected by violent crime is fantastic progress but our work is far from over.
“Our Government remains committed to restoring the basics in law and order and building a future where New Zealanders can feel safe in their communities.
“This is going to be another busy year. We just announced plans to provide police with the power to issue move-on orders to deal with disorderly behaviour. Our Crimes Amendment Bill is making its way through the house, and legislation to strengthen trespass laws will soon be introduced.”
Children’s Minister Karen Chhour says Oranga Tamariki figures show there has been a 22 per cent drop in serious repeat youth offending compared with when the Government came into office.
“This is well ahead of our target of a 15 per cent drop before 2030,” she says.
“We promised to fix what matters to New Zealanders. Ram raids are down 85 per cent. Kiwis are no longer being expected to live in fear that their cars have been stolen and used by young offenders in a ram raid of our local small businesses.
“Young offenders are avoiding re-offending because they know Courts, Oranga Tamariki and Police are working together more closely. They know now that their actions will have consequences.”
The Government welcomes the delivery of the final report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 Lessons to the Governor-General this morning.
“I want to acknowledge the Royal Commission’s work to provide its final report. I also want to thank the thousands of Kiwis who had a part in shaping this report by making their voices heard through submissions on the terms of reference for Phase Two of the inquiry,” says Ms van Velden.
Both the ACT-National and New Zealand First-National coalition agreements included commitments to expanding the Inquiry into COVID-19, showing that a review into the response was important to many Kiwis.
“New Zealanders told us they weren’t satisfied with the narrow terms of the first phase of the Royal Commission’s inquiry – terms set by the same Government that made the decisions the Commission was investigating. It was important that we expand the Inquiry’s terms of reference to focus on the use of lockdowns and vaccine mandates, in particular inquiring into whether the Government considered the impact these decisions would have on society, our health and education, and on our economy.
“The inquiry is not simply about learning what the previous Government did wrong, it is about working out what we need to do right. The social and financial costs of the pandemic response continue to be felt across the economy and society. Even today, New Zealanders are facing the consequences as they struggle with the cost of living and the debt disaster the previous Government left behind. We simply cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes again.”
The Royal Commission’s final report will be made public when the report is presented to Parliament on 10 March 2026.
Health Minister Simeon Brown will now take on the Government’s response to the recommendations in the report.
“New Zealanders lived through some of the most significant pandemic restrictions in the world. Kiwis remember not being able to visit loved ones in hospital, struggling to secure a managed isolation spot just to return home, and keeping their kids home from school for months on end,” Mr Brown says.
“Aucklanders felt this more than most, with the previous government’s decisions leading to the region spending more than six months in lockdown – the longest of any region in the country.
“The uncertainty, the isolation, and the toll it took on families, small business owners, and communities were all a result of decisions made during that time. Those decisions had a significant impact on everyday Kiwis, and it is important we take the time to fully understand why those decisions were made, so that any future response properly weighs the health and economic needs of all New Zealanders.”
The Government and relevant agencies will carefully consider the findings of the report before responding to its recommendations.
Note to Editors:
The Royal Commission was established on 9 December 2022 to examine New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 and identify the lessons learned that should be applied in future.
In November 2024 the Government announced an expansion on the scope of the Royal Commission of Inquiry to include a review of the key decisions taken by the Government in New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 during 2021 and 2022.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced travel bans on members of the Iranian regime involved in the violent suppression of protests.RNZ / Mark Papalii
The Foreign Minister is warning New Zealanders to get out of Iran, adding that the advice to not travel there has been long-standing.
“It has been horrifying to witness the brutal killing of thousands of protesters in Iran,” Winston Peters said.
“Iranians have the right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and access to information. Those rights have been ruthlessly violated.”
New Zealand joined Australia, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada and the United States in implementing travel bans targeting 40 individuals, including Minister of the Interior Eskandar Momeni, Minister of Intelligence Esmail Khatib, and Prosecutor-General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad. It will also include members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Peters said if war broke out in Iran, which he said was possibly likely, there was a risk innocent New Zealand citizens could be retaliated against by the local regime.
He told RNZ he suspects there could be hundreds of Kiwis in Iran – currently 26 are registered as being there.
“The last time we had this exercise when we were getting people out rapidly when we thought there was an emergency it proved to be well over 130 and very dramatically in the last few days, so we just don’t know.
“Get out, I suppose, is the safest answer for us to give them, and it’s been the advice we’ve given them for some considerable time now,” he said.
In this circumstance Peters says there could be retaliation and that’s why he is encouraging New Zealanders to get out.
“If war was to break out the retaliation against innocent citizens who are there with no essence of guilt whatsoever could be nevertheless very huge, and that’s what we’re warning people against – not just getting caught up in the war but being caught up in retaliatory measures by the local regime.”
Peters told RNZ the motivation for New Zealanders staying in Iran is most likely being near family and making sure they’re safe.
“New Zealanders need to know we go to extraordinary efforts to try and keep our people safe but they have to do their bit to.”
On whether war is likely to break out in Iran, he said, “it’s possibly likely and you have to deal with the worst case circumstances if they arise and that’s what we’re trying to do”.
Peters said there were many countries who shared New Zealand’s view that “Iran is being supported by countless examples of terrorist proxies worldwide – and there are many Middle Eastern and Islamic countries who hold that view as well”.
On global tensions Peters told RNZ it’s the worst he’s seen it since World War II.
“It’s made things all that much more difficult for countries like New Zealand that’s got a tremendous record of supporting peaceful measures and engaging in freedom and democracy and the rule of law.
“It’s made it difficult for all of us but we’ve got to press on and make sure we don’t lose this battle,” he said.
At the time a ministry spokesperson said all diplomatic staff had left Iran on commercial flights, shifting operations to Ankara in Turkey.
The government’s long-standing advice over a number of years has been not to travel to Iran and in January, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) urged any New Zealanders still in the country to leave now.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
One in seven children are living in hardship in the latest recorded year, according to new data from Stats New Zealand.
The national statistics agency released the data for the year between July 2024 and June 2025 on Wednesday morning.
Around 17,900 households were interviewed for the research.
The number of children that were recorded as living in material hardship was 14.3 percent – one in seven.
There was no significant change in that from the year recorded prior or since 2018.
In the latest statistics, a child recorded as facing material hardship was recorded as being in a household going without seven or more of 18 necessities.
Those included being unable to pay for utilities on time, having to put up with feeling cold and putting off doctors visits.
That was a change to the year prior where the threshold for material hardship was six or more.
14.9 percent of Māori children were recorded in material hardship which was not statistically different to the year prior.
For Pacific children, that figure was 18.7 percent five points higher than in 2024.
17.8 percent of children lived in households with less than half of the 2018 year’s median equivalised disposable household income after housing costs were deducted.
That was not different to the year prior.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Jewelled geckos are native to the southeast of the South Island and are generally a striking bright green with diamond-shaped patches or stripes although in some populations the males are grey or brown. Their bodies grow up to 8 cm in length, but their tail doubles their length. Their New Zealand threat classification is “At Risk, Declining”. If you’re out naturing in forests or shrublands in places like Canterbury, Otago or Southland, you might be fortunate to see one.
DOC’s Wildlife Crime Team Leader Dylan Swain says a group of 14 jewelled geckos were discovered by Dutch wildlife authorities as part of Operation Thunder in 2023. Operation Thunder is an international operation, involving several government organisations and Interpol, which focusses on the illegal trade in protected wildlife.
“Jewelled geckos have never legally been exported from New Zealand,” Dylan says.
“It’s likely the geckos found by our Dutch counterparts were in fact smuggled out of New Zealand or are the offspring of such animals.”
Dutch authorities are continuing investigations into the person who was found with the geckos.
The six geckos returned to New Zealand comprise two males and four females.
They were returned to New Zealand in International Air Travel Association‑compliant individual containers with small ventilation holes and kept at a consistent temperature throughout their journey.
All geckos will receive close care and attention, and the entire group will spend a minimum of 60 days in quarantine as part of their return process.
Although some of the original group of animals have since died, DOC has worked closely with at The Netherlands NVWA (Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority), United for Wildlife (part of the Royal Foundation) and Korean Air to safely return the geckos all the way from Netherlands to New Zealand via Korea.
A Dutch inspector accompanied the geckos on their repatriation journey.
“We are delighted to be able to bring a small group of six of the geckos back to New Zealand,” Dylan says. “They’ll spend a quarantine period at Wellington Zoo before they’re shifted to a new permanent home.”
NVWA spokesperson Lex Benden says: “We are pleased our investigation has contributed to the geckos now being back where they belong.”
Dutch authorities are collaborating with DOC to share information on this matter and the wider trade in geckos across Europe.
NATURE LOOKS DIFFERENT FROM HERE
Nature isn’t scenery. Nature is a society that we rely on for everything, every day. It’s behind our identity and our way of life.
Innovative Kiwi drones will be trialled by the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) to strengthen capability while growing local industry, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today.
“We’re partnering with New Zealand businesses to ensure the Defence Force can protect our people into the future,” Ms Collins says.
“NZDF will buy and trial advanced uncrewed systems from New Zealand company Syos Aerospace, enabling access to mission-ready, combat proven technology.
“We’re further backing Kiwi businesses by bringing together Sysdoc for training support and Hirtenberger Defence Technology for advanced systems support.”
“This will inform future capability decisions on a technology that has rapidly become central to modern military operations.
Delivery of air, land, and sea drones will occur over the coming months, including the SG400 Uncrewed Ground Vehicle, the SM300 Uncrewed Surface Vessel, the SA2 ISR drone and the SA7 one way effector drone.
The Army and Navy will conduct trials in a range of scenarios, such as transporting supplies, performing maritime patrols, and completing route reconnaissance.
“Last year we announced our Defence Industry Strategy, which details how Defence and industry will work together to deliver the Defence Capability Plan while building a strong, resilient industry that delivers economic growth and grows our export markets,” Ms Collins says.
“Having cutting-edge drone technology developed and supported by local businesses will reduce supply chain risk and strengthen our resilience – exactly what the strategy is designed for.
“In an increasingly contested world, we’re building the future by equipping our Defence Force with innovative Kiwi products to keep our people safe.”
Notes to editor:
Syos Aerospace: Founded four years ago in Mount Maunganui and now a world-recognised innovator in uncrewed systems, Syos won the 2025 NZ Hi-Tech Company of the Year award. By partnering with Syos, the NZDF is plugging into a fast-moving technology company whose products are combat tested. For instance, Syos drones and USVs have already seen operational use in the conflict in Ukraine
Sysdoc: A New Zealand consulting firm specialising in learning development and digital training solutions. Sysdoc has a long track record with the NZDF (15+ years, 100+ projects) in modernising training and documentation. Sysdoc will design learning and training materials for the new systems.
Hirtenberger Defence Technology (HDT) Ltd: This company is known for things like advanced fire control systems, including mortar targeting software. The NZDF is exploring integration of the new drones with Hirtenberger’s Arcfire, a Fire Control System, designed and built in New Zealand, and the NZDF battle management system.
The Government is investing $200,000 in the Waimate Trail as part of its ongoing commitment to grow local tourism, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced today.
“I’m thrilled to be partnering locally and investing in this trail that showcases the unique South Canterbury countryside. It will attract more visitors to the region, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities,” Louise Upston says.
This funding will complete stage one of the trail, a 13km stretch from Waimate to Waihao Forks and is part of the Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package.
The local community has already raised around 80 per cent of the funding needed to complete stage one of the 67km trail, which traverses limestone rock formations, native forest, and scenic valleys.
“This trail will be popular with both locals and tourists celebrating South Canterbury’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
“By backing local projects and encouraging tourism in the regions, we’re continuing to drive economic growth,” Louise Upston says.
Notes to Editors
Once complete the Waimate Trail – Te Ara Waimatemate will be a 67 km loop trail that links with existing track networks.
Work has started on the cycle trail and stage one between Waimate and Waihao Forks is expected to be completed in late April/May
A temporary bridge is expected to be in place on State Highway 39 by mid‑March, reconnecting the community south of Pirongia after the Mangati Bridge was destroyed in heavy floods, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.
“Since the floods on 13 February, NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) , its contractors and consultants have moved at pace to restore access for south of Pirongia.
“A plan is now in place to install a 40‑metre steel‑framed temporary bridge slightly upstream of the existing two‑lane bridge. The bridge will have a 50‑tonne weight limit, with traffic managed by temporary traffic lights.
“Crews have already cleared tonnes of debris from the site, allowing specialist teams to begin work on both the temporary bridge and the permanent replacement. Council partners and landowners have recognised the urgency of this work and supported it every step of the way.
“We expect the Acrow (Bailey‑style) temporary bridge to be operational by mid‑March, subject to fine weather. The approaches are currently under construction, and assembly of the bridge on site is expected to take around four days.
“Work is also underway on accelerated design and procurement so construction of the new permanent two‑lane bridge can begin later this year.
“Restoring access safely and as quickly as possible is the priority, and I want to thank everyone involved for the extraordinary effort to reconnect this community.”
Notes to editor:
Two pictures are attached of the Mangati Bridge damage.
Between 9 July 2025 and 21 February 2026, bailiffs scanned 147,740 number plates and identified 2866 people with overdue court fines or reparations.
Of those identified, 600 people paid on the spot, 295 established some form of payment arrangement, 236 cars were seized and 120 cars were clamped.
The rest were either issued with a warning or no action was taken due to their situation, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said.
“Eighty of the cars have already been sold at auction, with another 20 soon to go under the hammer. Ninety-eight people paid to avoid their car being sold.
“Overall, more than $708,621 has been recovered, and due to its success, the trial was expanded.”
Goldsmith said 40 number plate scanners had been in operation on streets and at some police breath testing stations since December 2025.
“This increase means all bailiffs across New Zealand have access to a device ahead of a possible permanent rollout.
“The message is simple: pay your court fines, or you will be walking home.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 February 2026 – Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government, delivered his 2026-27 Budget today (February 25), with a range of initiatives to support and diversify Hong Kong’s economic growth, boost innovation and technology (I&T), speed up development of the Northern Metropolis and proactively align with China’s National 15th Five-Year Plan.
The theme of the 2026-27 Budget, the fourth Budget of the current-term Government, is “Driving High-quality, Inclusive Growth with Innovation and Finance”.
Hong Kong SAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, delivers the 2026-27 Budget today (February 25)
“Over the past year, as a result of the booming economy and capital market, our tax revenue has increased. Coupled with the reinforced fiscal consolidation programme gradually bearing fruit, our public finances have improved sooner than expected,” Mr Chan said.
The Financial Secretary revealed that Hong Kong’s Consolidated Account was expected to register a surplus of $2.9 billion in the current fiscal year, instead of a deficit of about $67 billion as originally estimated. The Operating Account for 2025-26, which was originally estimated to record a deficit of about $3 billion, will register a surplus of $51.3 billion, he said.
It was also confirmed that Hong Kong’s economy expanded by 3.5% in 2025, with growth forecast to be between 2.5% and 3.5% for 2026.
Mr Chan noted that this year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, and he stressed the need for Hong Kong to actively align with the Plan.
“Our country’s sustained high-standard two-way opening-up, coupled with scientific and technological innovation, have presented us with new opportunities,” he said. “We must embrace the 15th Five-Year Plan with an innovative mindset, fostering new quality productive forces in accordance with local conditions.”
Mr Chan set out a series of measures to drive I&T development, including establishing the Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy; taking forward the Sandy Ridge data facility cluster project; promoting AI training; and accelerating digital intelligence transformation of the Government.
“We are pressing ahead with the industrialisation of AI and deepening its integration across various industries, while encouraging wider AI application, thereby achieving the target of adoption and utilisation by all,” he said.
The International Clinical Trial Academy will, he said, also be established to help enable the Chinese Mainland’s biomedicine technology to go global, attract foreign investment, and help develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub.
To facilitate the development of new industrialisation, the Budget has earmarked resources for establishing in Hong Kong the first national manufacturing innovation centre outside the Mainland, and the New Industrialisation Elite Enterprises Nurturing Scheme will be launched.
The Government will promote the full integration of technological innovation and industrial innovation through key infrastructure, including the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, and the San Tin Technopole in the Northern Metropolis.
To support financial services, Hong Kong will proactively align with national development strategies, advance the internationalisation of the Renminbi, and continuously reform the securities market.
The Government will legislate this year to enhance tax regimes for family offices and funds, as well as establish licensing regimes for digital asset dealing and custodian service providers.
“Despite the complex and ever-changing external environment, Hong Kong’s financial market has performed strongly and our financial system remains robust,” Mr Chan said. “We will continue to consolidate our existing strengths, tap into emerging fields, strengthen market systems and risk control and deepen financial co-operation in the GBA (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area).”
Noting that Hong Kong saw a year-on-year 12 per cent increase in visitor arrivals last year, which had created business and job opportunities for related sectors, the Budget will allocate $1.66 billion (US$212 million) to the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).
“The HKTB will scale up its flagship events and promotion, introducing new elements and extending event duration, and organise more signature festive events to highlight Hong Kong’s East-meets-West uniqueness,” Mr Chan said.
The Budget also earmarks an additional funding of $1 billion (US$128 million) for the Built Heritage Conservation Fund to enrich city culture. Elsewhere, the Government will launch the Northern Metropolis Urban-rural Integration Fund as a pilot scheme to support rural tourism projects.
To further promote sports development in Hong Kong, the Financial Secretary will inject $1.2 billion (US$154 million) to the sports portion of the Arts and Sports Development Fund.
Mr Chan said that the global environment has remained volatile over the past year, and Hong Kong has continued to undergo economic transformation.
“Technological innovation, in particular the development of AI, has brought us a mix of opportunities and challenges. Yet, Hong Kong has always thrived amid changes and progressed through innovation. We must make full use of our strengths and leverage the resolute support of our country to speed up and scale up our economic development sustainably for creating better development opportunities for the people and enhancing their quality of life,” Mr Chan said.
For more details on the 2026-27 Budget, click here.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 February 2026 – Response to the Budget 2026/2027 by KK Chiu, International Director, Chief Executive, Greater China,Cushman & Wakefield:
Enhancing Implementation Efficiency in the Northern Metropolis through Anchor Institutions and Clear Role Definition
In the Budget, the Government mentioned that it will further encourage developers holding land in the Northern Metropolis to collaborate with technology or advanced manufacturing enterprises in submitting joint development proposals. At C&W, we believe that introducing a public–private partnership model can enhance execution efficiency and help alleviate fiscal pressure, thereby accelerating the implementation of the Northern Metropolis development while leveraging market efficiency and innovation capabilities. However, the key lies in how clearly the Government defines public and commercial roles, and ensures transparency in long-term industry objectives, land use and return allocation, in order to attract private sector participation. Subject to clear planning, phased implementation and prudent regulation, the PPP model can become an important tool in advancing the industrialisation of the Northern Metropolis.
As noted in our earlier research, the Government may consider securing strategic “anchor institutions” and avoiding blurred industrial positioning across different precincts, so as to establish clear district identities and enhance overall attractiveness. We hope the Government will announce details of university and technology industry participation as soon as possible to strengthen developers’ confidence in advancing projects within the district. At the same time, we welcome the Government’s adoption of our earlier recommendation to introduce flexible arrangements for land premium payment in the Northern Metropolis. This will help alleviate cash flow pressures for enterprises undertaking land development, and enhance the feasibility and pace of public–private partnerships and industry introduction initiatives.
Suggest to LeverageMPF Assets to Broaden Financing Channels for the Northern Metropolis
We support the Government’s proposal to increase the borrowing ceiling of the two bond programmes to HK$900 billion to finance the development of the Northern Metropolis, and to issue more longer-term bonds to better align with cash flow requirements and capital deployment for infrastructure works. Beyond direct bond issuance, we suggest that, from a broader asset allocation perspective, the Government could make better use of the sizeable Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) asset pool. According to MPFA data, total MPF assets reached approximately HK$1.55 trillion as at end-December 2025, a record high. The Government may consider moderately relaxing MPF investment restrictions to allow a certain proportion of assets (for example, 10%) to be invested in long-term bonds issued for Northern Metropolis development. This would provide a stable source of funding for the Northern Metropolis while offering MPF members an additional investment option with relatively lower risk and stable returns, creating a win-win outcome.
Land and Housing Supply
The land sale programme for the coming year, together with the projected supply of first-hand private residential units in the next three to four years, indicates that land and housing supply is stabilising. We recommend that the Government streamline tender conditions and release sites to the market in an orderly manner to attract broader developer participation and revitalise market sentiment.
Suggestto Assist “Basic Housing Unit” Residents with Rehousing
The regulatory regime for “Basic Housing Units” is expected to take effect on 1 March this year, with a 48-month transitional period. Some units may fail to meet the new requirements, potentially resulting in tenant displacement. In addition, there are approximately 27,000 units in public rental housing estates aged over 50 years, creating significant rehousing pressure. We consider that the urban renewal strategy should be flexible and financially sustainable. The Government should establish clear rehousing priorities and allocate units reasonably among affected residents, tenants of old estates and applicants on the waiting list.
Under the Urban Renewal Authority’s prevailing acquisition approach, compensation based on prices comparable to first-hand residential properties (including owner-occupier allowances) has imposed substantial financial pressure. We therefore recommend further optimisation of the “flat-for-flat” mechanism to alleviate cash compensation burdens. Specifically, the Government could explore allocating land in new development areas, such as Tseung Kwan O, to the Urban Renewal Authority or related bodies for non-local rehousing under the “flat-for-flat” arrangement. While the current “seven-year-old flat” compensation benchmark has its basis, the Government may also consider offering more attractive exchange terms to older building owners as an incentive to expedite relocation and redevelopment progress.
We believe that such measures would not only reduce the substantial upfront cash outlay at the initial stage of redevelopment and ease liquidity pressure on the Urban Renewal Authority but also enable capital recycling upon project completion and sale, thereby establishing a financially sustainable urban renewal model with a virtuous funding cycle.
Response to the Budget 2026/2027 by John Siu, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield:
Collaboration between the Hong Kong Investment Corporation and Market Capital to Support Quality Commercial Property Development
We agree with the Government’s decision, having regard to prevailing market supply and demand conditions, to continue refraining from the sale of commercial sites in the coming year. As at the end of the fourth quarter last year, the overall availability rate of Grade A offices in Hong Kong stood at approximately 20.3%. The temporary suspension of commercial land sales will allow the market to gradually absorb existing vacant floor space and help stabilise the office market. Nevertheless, the Government should review market conditions regularly and resume the sale of commercial sites in a timely manner when appropriate.
Regarding collaboration between the Hong Kong Investment Corporation and market capital to guide funds towards quality commercial property projects aligned with Hong Kong’s industry positioning, and to facilitate matching between such projects and enterprises in target sectors, we consider the overall direction to be positive and consistent with market-oriented principles. This approach can enhance the efficiency of matching projects with enterprises, provide more suitable premises for emerging industries such as innovation and technology and medical research, and inject new demand into the commercial property sector.
Sandy Ridge data facility cluster to enhance Hong Kong’s data hub position
The Government has accelerated efforts to promote the industrialisation of artificial intelligence (AI), encouraging its wider adoption and deeper integration across industries. Over the longer term, this will substantially increase demand for computing power, thereby strengthening local absorption capacity for high-specification data centre facilities.
Regarding the proposed data facility cluster at Sandy Ridge, which will provide over 2.5 million square feet of gross floor area, this represents approximately 25% of Hong Kong’s existing data centre stock of around 10 million square feet, marking a rare large-scale supply in recent years. Should the project be successfully tendered, it will provide the high-power capacity and infrastructure necessary to support AI development, and in the longer term enhance Hong Kong’s position as a data hub within the Greater Bay Area and across Asia.
Strengthening Hong Kong’s Position as an International Maritime Hub and Responding Flexibly to Logistics Land Needs
The Government has proposed supporting the national maritime strategic development, advancing the elevation of Hong Kong’s status as an international maritime centre, and accelerating the smart transformation of the logistics industry as well as the expansion of cargo hinterland. The reservation of approximately 32 hectares of land in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area for the development of a modern logistics hub will further help consolidate Hong Kong’s role as an international maritime centre. However, we consider that in developing a modern logistics industry park, the Government should adopt a market-oriented, enterprise-centred approach, in order to respond flexibly to the needs of businesses and offer appropriate incentives to attract enterprise participation.
Diversified Policies and Continuous Investment to Energise Retail Consumption and Leasing Market
We welcome the Government’s introduction of diversified initiatives and continued funding to promote Hong Kong’s exhibition industry, incentive travel, revitalisation of historic buildings, international cruise development, major sports events, harbourfront enhancement works and the “urban-rural integration” initiatives. Through these targeted and wide-ranging programmes, Hong Kong will be able to attract visitors of different segments and spending power, broaden its visitor base and enhance the overall competitiveness of the tourism industry. We believe these measures will drive the development of high value-added economic activities, further stimulate local retail consumption and invigorate the shop leasing market, thereby injecting additional momentum into the overall economy and delivering long-term benefits.
We remain optimistic about the medium- to long-term outlook for retail rents in Hong Kong. As the relevant policies are progressively implemented and tourism continues to strengthen, we expect retail rents to show more positive adjustments.
Response to the Budget 2026/2027 by Rosanna Tang,Executive Director,Head of Research,Hong Kong of Cushman&Wakefield:
Optimising Land Resources to Promote Student Hostel Development
With the implementation of various talent admission schemes, the planning of the Northern Metropolis University Town, and policies aimed at attracting outstanding students from around the world to study in Hong Kong, demand for residential accommodation and student hostels is expected to continue rising.
The Development Bureau earlier announced the rezoning of three commercial sites in Kai Tak, Siu Lek Yuen in Sha Tin and Tung Chung East for post-secondary student hostel use, which are expected to provide around 4,500 hostel places. The further implementation of relevant measures in this Budget will help alleviate the shortage of hostel places and, in the longer term, ease rental pressure in the residential market, supporting the healthy development of the property market.
However, as student hostel projects are not permitted for strata-title sale and typically involve a longer payback period, we recommend that the Government provide appropriate incentives in the land sale conditions. For example, priority could be given to sites located near post-secondary institutions, and greater flexibility could be offered in land premium arrangements or tender terms to encourage active participation by developers.
Northern Metropolis University Town
Regarding development of Northern Metropolis University Town, the Government has demonstrated its commitment to expediting the development of higher education and advancing the “Study in Hong Kong” initiative by granting three sites in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area and earmarking HK$10 billion in loans to support campus construction. This will help further enhance Hong Kong’s overall attractiveness as a regional education hub.
We hope that, as student intake and campus sites are introduced into Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen, they will be closely aligned with the district’s industry positioning and functional roles, generating synergy. At the same time, a clear division of roles and complementary development should be established with future education sites to be launched in Ngau Tam Mei.
Response to the Budget 2026/2027 by Tom Ko, Executive Director, Head of Capital Markets, Hong Kong of Cushman & Wakefield:
Adjustments to Investment Immigration Policy to Draw Global Capital
We support the Government’s continued efforts to strengthen talent admission from both Mainland and overseas markets. However, this year’s Budget did not set out concrete measures to assist incoming talent in acquiring properties in Hong Kong. We recommend a calibrated adjustment of the investment threshold and an expansion of the categories of qualifying investment properties. Instead of restricting investment solely to non-residential assets, the Government could consider prudently incorporating selected residential properties into the scope.
At the same time, we propose a review of the banking and mortgage restrictions applied to non-local investors, with a view to enhancing flexibility in capital deployment and circulation. These refinements would help attract additional international capital and high‑calibre talent to establish a long‑term presence in Hong Kong.
Prudent Adjustment of Stamp Duty on Luxury Residential Properties
Regarding the Government’s increase in stamp duty on residential property transactions exceeding HK$100 million, and in line with the “affordable users pay” principle, we consider the adjustment to remain at a rational level. Nevertheless, in the short term, it may lead some potential buyers to defer their purchasing decisions. We believe that once the market has adjusted, transaction momentum in the luxury residential segment should remain resilient. We would encourage the Government to continue exercising prudence in adjusting stamp duty rates on luxury properties, so as not to undermine the overall attractiveness of Hong Kong’s property market.
Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Alcohol available for consumption: Year ended December 2025 – information release
25 February 2026
Alcohol available for consumption statistics provide information on the volume of alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits, and spirit-based drinks) available for consumption in New Zealand.
Key facts
All comparisons are between the year ended December 2025 and the year ended December 2024, except where otherwise stated.
The total volume of alcoholic beverages available for consumption was down 8.3 percent to 442 million litres.
The volume of beer fell 10 percent to 265 million litres.
The volume of wine fell 11 percent to 85 million litres.
The volume of spirits (including spirit-based drinks) rose 1.3 percent to 93 million litres.
The equivalent total volume of pure alcohol in all alcoholic beverages for consumption fell 7.6 percent.
The volume of available alcohol, expressed in terms of the number of equivalent standard drinks per person aged 18 years and over, fell 8.4 percent to 1.6 standard drinks per person per day.
Visit our website to read the full information release and to download CSV files:
Road freight association Transporting New Zealand says the Government’s latest heavy vehicle reforms will see small productivity improvements, but says the Minister of Transport and transport officials must be more ambitious if they want to see meaningful savings for businesses and consumers.
Theproposals announced todayinclude allowing drivers on a Class 1 license to operate heavier electric trucks and buses, remove permitting requirements for vehicle rental service providers moving empty trucks, and simplifying the conversion of overseas heavy vehicle licenses.
Transporting New Zealand’s Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says that the proposals are a step in the right direction, but that tinkering with the regulations wouldn’t deliver the productivity improvements the country needs.
“To put things in perspective, the current proposals would remove the need for about 79 heavy vehicle permits a year, affect around 30 battery electric heavy vehicles annually, and remove a $100 fee and a paper form from international driver license conversions.”
The changes arePhase 2of the Government’s Heavy Vehicle Productivity reform programme.
Consultation onPhase 1concluded in December last year, and included consultation on the removal of 50MAX permits and H Plate requirements.
Kalasih says that the modest proposals don’t match with the Government’s ambitious growth agenda and increasing national freight task.
“There are some really exciting technological developments in higher productivity and lower emission trucks that are being blocked by the current land transport regulations.”
“Our submission on Phase 1 of the productivity reforms contained six specific recommendations, including changes to permitted axle configurations and spacing limits. Officials are currently considering this feedback, and we want to see those changes adopted.”
“Similarly, with these Phase 2 proposals, particularly around increased weight limits for heavy electric vehicles, we’ll be pushing for more meaningful changes that accommodate larger battery electric, hydrogen and hybrid truck and trailer combinations.”
Submissions on the proposed changes close on 25 March.
The Crown and Ngāti Ruapani mai Waikaremoana have signed a Deed of Settlement at Tuai today, Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“After six years of negotiations we have reached a long-awaited agreement that acknowledges the past and looks to a stronger future.
“It is a privilege to sign the Deed and deliver the Crown apology to Ngāti Ruapani in their rohe.
“A key feature of the settlement is the return of Crown-owned land into Te Urewera, reflecting a central aspiration of Ngāti Ruapani to restore their connection with Te Urewera.
“The settlement includes an agreed historical account and redress for historical breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi which caused significant harm to generations of Ngāti Ruapani.”
The redress package includes:
$24 million financial redress;
Undivided half share of Patunamu Forestry Ltd;
4 commercial redress and 2 cultural redress properties; and
Approximately 12,000 hectares of land added into Te Urewera.
“While no settlement can fully remedy the injustices of the past, this agreement represents an important step forward. I hope it will support Ngāti Ruapani to achieve their cultural and economic aspirations for future generations to come.”
Ngāti Ruapani are based in and around south Waikaremoana. The signing of this deed concludes settlement negotiations in Te Urewera.
A scheme that brings student researchers and industry together to tackle challenges that matter to people’s daily lives is open for further applications, Science, Innovation and Technology and Universities Minister Dr Shane Reti says.
“The Applied Doctorates Scheme attracted strong backing from industry last year, and the new call for projects will provide more students the opportunity to solve real world challenges while earning their PhDs,” Dr Reti says.
“Students in the applied doctorates programme will develop advanced research skills while working with businesses to build commercial skills and deliver practical solutions for New Zealand. For industry, this is a chance to work with skilled researchers who bring fresh ideas and deep expertise.
“The first cohort is focused on energy research, with 25 industry-led projects selected from 76 submissions across energy systems, infrastructure, agriculture and high-tech engineering, recognising energy’s central role in supporting households and businesses, lifting productivity and keeping costs down.
“These students will contribute to projects that deliver results for Kiwis, including geothermal innovation with Contact Energy, reducing household electricity costs with Vector, improving energy efficiency at the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter, and strengthening rural resilience through power trading with Victoria University.
“The second cohort of doctoral-level research projects is now open for applications, and the theme for the 2026 call is Aerospace, Defence & Security, sectors that underpin New Zealand’s economic resilience and national security.
“The projects include a mix of fully Government funded and co-funded initiatives, reflecting confidence in the scheme’s direction and purpose. The first group of students are enrolling now and are expected to begin in the middle of 2026.
“The Applied Doctorates Scheme backs high-value science that will deliver results for New Zealanders, building a pipeline of researchers who can turn strong ideas into real economic and community outcomes.” Notes to editors:
Photos: Credit Rio Tinto – Students at the Tiwai smelter as part of their graduate studies.
Attached: Applied Doctorates Programme: 2025 Energy Research Cohort Case Studies. Visit the Applied Doctorates Scheme website for further information and a full list of projects https://applieddoctorates.nz/.
Established in 2025, the Applied Doctorates Scheme strengthens the connection between universities and industry by equipping PhD students with both advanced research expertise and applied skills needed in modern workplaces. It is supported by a five-year, $20 million Government investment to grow a workforce that can translate cutting edge science into real world benefit.
The 2025 round sought projects on the theme of New Zealand’s path to energy innovation. The 2026 round of projects will focus on Aerospace, Defence and Security. Applications close 11 May and the projects will be made public week of 2 July. The 2027 theme will focus on Biotechnology and Bioprocessing research.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 February 2026 – First established in 2019, JIN Gastrobar introduces a refreshed take on modern continental cuisine, bringing together thoughtfully crafted dishes, curated gin selections, and signature cocktails in a warm, contemporary setting. Conveniently located within Aurum Theatre at The Gardens Mall and Mid Valley Southkey JB, the restaurant welcomes diners without the need for a movie ticket, making it an accessible dining destination for both moviegoers and dine-in guests alike.
JIN Gastrobar’s new menu includes a variety of intercontinental mains such as grilled meats and fish, delectable pastas, desserts, and not forgetting JIN Gastrobar’s signature cocktails and mocktails.
Inspired by a play on the words “Jin,” meaning gold in Mandarin, and “Gin,” one of its signature pours, JIN Gastrobar was created as a space where food, drinks, and meaningful moments come together. The space is designed to suit every occasion, from intimate date nights and quality time with loved ones to casual gatherings and solo indulgence.
A Prelude of Flavours
The refreshed menu begins with a variety of appetisers, including sharing platters, starters, soups, and salads designed to offer warmth and balance. Highlights include:
Chargrilled Octopus (RM68)
Canadian Atlantic Lobster Roll (RM58)
Trio of Fries (RM32)
Mains from Land and Sea
The main course selection spans grilled meats, fresh seafood, and comforting pastas, offering something for every palate. Amongst a range of selections, diners can choose from:
Complementary sides such as russet steak fries, sautéed spinach, sautéed mushrooms, truffled mashed potatoes, and Peruvian asparagus with broccolini are available, priced from RM15 to RM35.
Desserts and Signature Sips
To end on a sweet note, guests can enjoy desserts including Classic Tiramisu (RM25), Chocolate Brûlée, Lime and Lychee Mousse (RM25), and Apple Crumble with Ice Cream.
features signature cocktails (RM50 each) with flavour profiles such as olive, pineapple, calamansi, and lychee. Non-alcoholic mocktails include Peach Sunrise, Pineapple Passion, Calamansi Fizz, Elderflower Fizz, and Virgin Mojito.
Dine & Post, Get Rewarded
From 21 January 2026 to 21 March 2026, the first 300 GSC Rewards members who dine in and post an Instagram Story tagging @jingastrobar will receive a complimentary mocktail.
Dine in at JIN Gastrobar.
Post an Instagram Story and tag @jingastrobar.
Present the Story to staff to redeem a complimentary mocktail.
JIN Gastrobar operates daily from 11:00am to 10:00pm at The Gardens Mall, Kuala Lumpur and Mid Valley South Key, Johor Bahru
With its refreshed menu and inviting ambience, JIN Gastrobar offers a versatile dining space suited for every occasion.
For further updates, stay tuned to JIN Gastrobar’s social media channels: https://www.instagram.com/jingastrobar/?hl=en
InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa will launch new annual Internet Insights research on Monday, 2 March 2026.
The report provides insights into our attitudes towards the Internet and our online world. As we spend more of our lives online, this research helps us, as a country, better understand how we use the Internet and how we feel about it.
Key research insights include:
New Zealanders’ use of AI and the concerns about its impact.
How much time we spend online for personal use (outside of work), and what we do with that time.
Which social media apps we are using.
Specific concerns we have about our lives being increasingly spent online.
Early access to research:
If you’d like to read the report before it goes live from 2 March, we’re happy to release it to you under embargo (2 March, 6am) and arrange any interviews or quotes you might need.
InternetNZ Chief Executive Vivien Maidaborn is available for interviews on Sunday, with some limited availability on Thursday and Friday.
About the research:
Internet Insights is an annual research report commissioned by InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa. The 2025 research was carried out by Verian, with interviews conducted between November 25 and December 8, 2025.
The sample size was 1003 and consisted of New Zealanders over the age of 18 sourced using online consumer panels. Results have a margin of error of +/- 3.1 per cent.
About InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa
InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa is the home and guardian of the .nz domain. We’re not government-funded – we’re an independent, not-for-profit organisation that operates .nz for the benefit of all New Zealanders, reinvesting domain revenue back into the community. We provide grants, help to fund other organisations, and advocate for an accessible and safe Internet that benefits everyone in Aotearoa. Find out more on our website: https://internetnz.nz/about-internetnz/
A dark cloud is shading Matt and Tory Simpson’s optimism that a new dawn for land use regulation is around the corner.
Like thousands of other farmers, the owners of Ranui Station in Canterbury were delighted to hear pledges from the Government that resource management reform would reduce red tape, and balance environmental protection with property rights.
“It’s hugely disappointing to find the reality falls short of the rhetoric,” says Matt, who’s co-chair of Federated Farmers High Country.
“The two new bills are riddled with flaws and the select committee now has a mammoth task ahead to get things back on track.”
For the Simpsons, and many other landowners and businesses, it’s far more than just a desire for less paperwork, bureaucracy, hearings and expensive resource consents.
“Livelihoods are at stake,” Matt says.
“We look after nature and want to develop this place so it’s in good shape and a going concern for the next generation.
“We have high hopes the new resource management laws will help us combat the Outstanding Natural Landscape overlay restrictions on more than half the station, and other clamps on our ability to diversify income streams,” he says.
Last December the Government released two new bills – the Planning Bill and the Natural Environment Bill – to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA).
Federated Farmers has lodged a comprehensive submission on the bills, re-stating strong support for overhaul of the RMA.
“We absolutely back the goals and principles agreed by Cabinet,” Feds RMA Reform spokesperson Mark Hooper says.
“Those include enabling primary sector growth, narrowing the scope of effects of the RMA, and greater use of national standards while reducing the need for resource consents.
“If you want that in less jargony terms – that means faster, better, more efficient processes and knocking on the head the trend of endless hearings, appeals and uncertainty.
“Unfortunately, somewhere in between the ambitions of Government MPs and drafting of the legislation, something has fallen over.”
A major concern is that, as currently written, instead of a farm plan replacing the need for a resource consent, a farm may need both.
“We see a risk of farmers facing more red tape under the Natural Environment Act than they presently do under the RMA,” Hooper says.
There are too many ambiguous, principle-based clauses in the two bills, which is likely to see continued expensive, time-consuming and litigious decision making, he says.
The environment bill fails to clearly rule greenhouse gas issues out of scope – despite these already being dealt with in other Acts – and the lack of a clear scope section and definition of effect also leaves the door open to intangible, hard-to-measure concepts such as the ‘mauri’ of water.
“Too much power is left in the hands of the Minister, under any future government, to impact the economy under National Policy Direction.
“And there’s still too much uncertainty over how farmers will access compensation for overlays and other restrictions on their property.
“We pushed hard for a risk-based approach to auditing and certification of farm plans but that’s also missing,” Hooper says.
Federated Farmers’ other concerns include the carry-over of aspects of outdated Water Conservation Orders from the RMA, lack of protection for stock drinking water, and inability to insure against inadvertent breaches of regulation.
Hooper says time pressure may be a reason for “too much drag and drop” of content from the RMA into the draft new legislation.
“The Government and officials worked hard last year to make a series of amendments to the existing RMA.
“These were important fixes that enabled farmers to get on with production.
“That took focus away from the two new bills, and perhaps in the back of their minds was the fact there would be a five-month long select committee process and chances to weed out flaws.”
But Hooper believes the select committee has a challenging task.
“Federated Farmers has already voiced its unwavering opposition to clauses in the Natural Environment Bill which enable the Minister to auction, tender, or levy water.
“Getting rid of these potential water taxes is probably quite easily handled with changes of wording.
“But for other parts, the bill is drafted holistically and it’s more like a spider’s web, with layer upon layer of clauses that are interactive with other clauses.
“It’s going to take a lot of effort to untangle it.”
Hooper says it’s vital the select committee works diligently, and that its members who represent the coalition Government stick up for the original goals of RMA reform: simplicity, efficiency, less cost and litigation.
“Quite frankly, they’re principles and goals that an elected representative of any political persuasion should defend.”
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 February 2026 – Milestone Systems, a world leader in data-driven video technology, today announced the opening of its new Experience Centre in Singapore, representing a major expansion of the company’s regional footprint in Asia. The Centre will serve as a next-generation hub for solution design, cross-industry collaboration, and real-world testing of video innovations enabled by data analytics, hybrid-cloud architectures, and AI. It directly complements the Singapore government’s national agenda, announced at 2026 Budget by PM Lawrence Wong, by creating a stronger foundation for safe, industry-ready AI adoption in critical sectors.
Milestone Systems Singapore Experience Centre
The new facility underscores Milestone’s long-term commitment to Asia and supports the region’s rapid transition toward intelligent, automated and increasingly interconnected operational environments. It is designed to help governments, enterprises, and critical infrastructure operators accelerate deployments of video-driven solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and resilience while ensuring that innovation aligns with global standards of responsible AI adoption.
“Asia is the world’s most dynamic security and smart infrastructure market, and enterprises are expecting deeper operational intelligence and more adaptable system architectures,” said Kiean Khoo, Asia Business Head, Milestone Systems. “Our expanded Singapore hub gives the region the capabilities, collaboration space, and expertise required to address these new opportunities and scale innovation.”
Asia’s security and smart infrastructure market accelerates
Asian growth in demand for intelligent video and integrated security solutions is being driven by rapid urbanisation, infrastructure expansion, and rising expectations for real-time operational insights across airports, transport hubs, hospitality, critical infrastructure, and public spaces.
“Our expanded presence in Singapore reflects two clear realities: the scale and pace of demand across Asia, and the importance of scaling through open ecosystems and responsible innovation,” said Morten Illum, Chief Revenue Officer, Milestone Systems. The Experience Centre will play a pivotal role in helping partners and customers build AI-enabled solutions that are trustworthy, interoperable and ready for real-world complexities.”
The Asia-Pacific Physical Security Market size is estimated at USD 42.25 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 59.54 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period (2025-2030).[1] It is increasingly defined by intelligent video, access control, and integrated security solutions. Market trends show a significant migration from legacy CCTV systems to IP-based, hybrid, and cloud-enabled platforms, with an emphasis on interoperability, analytics, and AI-driven decision-making.
“As the region accelerates into the AI-era, our customers are looking for trusted, high-quality data to power autonomous decision-making,” Khoo added. “The new Experience Centre is built to help organisations validate AI-driven workflows safely and responsibly. It lets businesses experiment, optimise and innovate with the confidence that their systems meet the highest standards of governance, transparency and human oversight. “
A strategic hub for the era of Agentic AI
As organisations adopt AI—systems capable of planning, reasoning and autonomously executing tasks—video technology is becoming a core source of trusted, high-value data. The Asia Experience Centre will act as a proving ground for businesses seeking to explore how video, sensors, and multimodal data can be integrated to support e.g. AI agents in performing complex operational workflows.
The Centre features an expanded environment for scenario testing, multi-vendor integration, and modelling of high-density, real-time environments such as airports, urban transport, critical infrastructure, manufacturing floors, retail ecosystems, hospitality facilities and smart city districts. It can evaluate how AI workflows interact with real operational conditions, including video quality, data continuity, cybersecurity controls, and compliance requirements.
Driving innovation for a more connected and resilient Asia
Illum added further: “Milestone Systems is deepening its role as a catalyst for innovation across the region’s evolving security and smart-infrastructure landscape with the launch of the Asia Experience Centre. By combining open-platform video technology, responsible AI principles, and a strong partner ecosystem, the Centre will help accelerate Asia’s transition toward safer, smarter and more data-driven environments.”
Hashtag: #MilestoneSystems
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.