HSR Asia 2026 is the premier platform uniting government leaders, policy makers, rail authorities, financiers, engineers and technology innovators in Vietnam from 8-10th June 2026 to accelerate the next generation of high-speed rail across the region. Under the theme “Advancing High-Speed Rail Across Asia Pacific - Connectivity, Corridors & Delivery, the 2 day conference will explore how transformative high speed rail projects are reshaping regional mobility, fuelling sustainable economic growth and advancing technological frontiers.
Taking place in in Hanoi for the first time, HSR Asia 26 is anchored by Vietnam’s transformative North–South HSR programme – the conference will explore cross-border ASEAN corridors, regional corridor strategy, project delivery models, financing frameworks and bankability, digital rail innovation, delivery and engineering, transit-oriented development and sustainable infrastructure. HSR Asia 26 serves as the region’s strategic platform for shaping bankable, connected and future-ready rail networks across Asia Pacific and offers a unique platform to showcase innovations, build partnerships and influence the future of high speed rail in Asia Pacific.
Participants will gain insights into various funding models, the role of private investment, and real-world case studies showcasing successful financing strategies in high-speed rail projects.
The regional dialogue on Asia Pacific rail corridors
The delivery playbook for emerging HSR nations
The financing & bankability forum
A marketplace for engineering, rolling stock & digital systems
Vietnam’s gateway to ASEAN connectivity
Early Speakers Confirmed include: H.E Iain Frew, His Majesty’s Ambassador to Vietnam T C Chew, Managing Director, APAC, Arup Dr Sara Cheung, Executive Advisor, Asia Era One Milind Nirmal, Executive Director, DB Engineering & Consulting Tony Watson, Project Director, Typsa Tim Parker, CEO, HSR Authority of Australia Ir. Sri Viknesh Permalu, CEO, PMT Solutions Consult; Director, IRSE Malaysia Section, Malaysia Adj. Prof Andrea Giuricin, CEO,TRA Consulting Kent Donaldson, Executive Transport Adviser Middle East Juergen Czilinsky, Vice President, Discovery Group – JSC Frederico Ramos, Principal, Aedas Mark Wild, CEO, UK HS2 Brian Murray, Project Director, SAMAN Giles Thomas, Principal, High Speed Rail, Technical Director, Arup Heiko Scholz, Global Director, DB Rail Academy, Part of DB E.C.O. Group Manmohan Parkash, Global Thought Leader and Infrastructure Financing Expert/Former Senior Adviser, Office of the President, Asian Development Bank Harry Hoa Nguyen, Country Head – Vietnam and Cambodia & Laos, UK Export Finance
Conference Programme
Day 1, 9th June 2026, Tuesday
Connectivity & Corridor Strategy
8:00
Registration and Morning Coffee
9:00
Chairman’s Welcome Address T C Chew, Managing Director, APAC, Arup
9:10
Opening Keynote Address
Connecting Nations at Speed : Global Partnerships for Asia’s High Speed Rail Future
Why High-Speed Rail Matters Now
High-speed rail as a catalyst for sustainable growth, regional integration, and decarbonisation of transport
Asia’s leadership role in shaping global rail innovation
UK - Vietnam: A Growing Strategic Partnership
Longstanding UK - Vietnam relationship
Shared commitment to infrastructure quality, open markets, and skills development
The UK Experience in High-Speed Rail
UK involvement across the rail value chain including systems integration, engineering design, and safety, standards, and governance
Lessons learned from complex, large-scale rail programmes
Rail as the Climate Solution
High-speed rail as low-carbon mobility, an alternative to short-haul aviation, a driver of compact, transit-oriented development (TOD)
The UK’s Net-Zero Infrastructure Approach
UK’s commitment to climate-resilient infrastructure
Integrating sustainability across design, materials, operations
Collaboration Opportunities Ahead
Technology transfer and capacity building
Financing models and public–private partnerships
Green construction and digital rail systems
Closing and Calling for Actions
High-speed rail as a bridge between people and prosperity
Invitation to deepen collaboration during and beyond the conference
High-speed rail as a legacy for future generations
Seizing today’s decisions to shape tomorrow’s climate outcomes
H.E Iain Frew, His Majesty’s Ambassador to Vietnam
9:40
Keynote Address
High-Speed Rail as the Backbone of Asia Pacific Connectivity
Rail as economic integration infrastructure
From national projects to regional corridors
Political alignment & regulatory harmonisation
10:10
Networking Morning Coffee
10:40
Australia’s High Speed Rail – Daring to be Different
The head of Australia's High Speed Rail Authority, Tim Parker, will provide an update on the nation's High Speed Rail program, including an overview of the proposed delivery approach and the current Development Phase. Informed by recent major infrastructure projects locally and internationally, Australia is adopting a refined methodology to deliver a once-in-a-century investment.
Tim Parker, CEO, HSR Authority of Australia (via zoom)
11:10
Executive Panel Session Delivering Asia Pacific’s High-Speed Rail Future: Connectivity, Corridors & Real-World Implementation
Moderator:T C Chew, Managing Director, APAC, Arup Panelists: Manmohan Parkash, Global Thought Leader and Infrastructure Financing Expert/Former Senior Adviser, Office of the President, Asian Development Bank Harry Hoa Nguyen, Country Head – Vietnam and Cambodia & Laos, UK Export Finance
12:00
Shadow Operations ‒ Moving Forward in Confidence in Developing Large Scale Rail Infrastructure Projects In Asia Pacific
As High-Speed Rail projects expand across Asia Pacific, ensuring operational readiness from the outset is critical to delivering reliable and efficient railway systems. For emerging HSR initiatives in Vietnam and the region, the Shadow Operator role bridges the gap between construction and future operations, supporting system integration, testing and commissioning, and operational readiness. This approach reduces interface risks and provides confidence that large-scale rail investments can transition smoothly into stable and efficient railway operations from day one.”
Milind Nirmal, Executive Director, DB Engineering & Consulting
12:30
Networking Lunch
1:30
Launching a national HSR Programme: what must be decided early, what can wait, and what mistakes are hardest to recover from.
Core objectives: capacity relief vs. speed vs. regional development vs. decarbonisation
Initial corridors and long-term national network vision
Sequencing of phases and integration with existing rail - legacy network vs a stand alone system
Affordability envelope that shapes scope from day one - alignment and geology
Early corridor protection to avoid later land-use conflicts and cost escalation
Giles Thomas, Principal, High Speed Rail, Technical Director, Arup
2:00
Mega project delivery: Getting back on track Mark Wild, CEO, UK HS2
2:30
Transforming Crisis into Precision: AI Powered Emergency Operations for HSR
Learning from past accidents and their consequences
Why current systems may fail when seconds matter
How technology transforms emergency response
The AI powered solutions in action
Building trust through rigorous compliance
Stakeholders Engagement
Impact and Vision.
Dr Sara Cheung, Executive Advisor, Asia Era One, Thailand
3:00
Networking Afternoon Tea
3:30
Panel Session Engineering High-Speed Rail for Asia Pacific: Design, Integration & Delivery at Scale
Delivering high-speed rail across Asia Pacific requires more than ambition—it demands engineering precision, seamless systems integration, and the ability to execute at scale across diverse and often complex environments. From dense urban corridors to challenging geographies, HSR projects must balance speed, safety, cost, and long-term performance.
This technical panel brings together leading engineers, system integrators, and project delivery experts to explore how best to design, integrate, and deliver high-speed rail infrastructure that is resilient, future-ready, and operationally efficient.
Moderator: Kent Donaldson, Executive Transport Adviser, Middle East Panelists:Brian Murray, Project Director, SAMAN
Ir. Sri Viknesh Permalu, CEO, PMT Solutions Consult, Malaysia; Director, IRSE Malaysia Section
4:15
From Global Benchmarks to Future Networks: Alignments, Stations & the True Purpose of HSR
HSR Around the World
snapshot of examples of existing systems
summary of planned and ongoing systems globally
Fundamental Purpose of HSR
Future Proofing
Why?
Design for the needs, not based on political drives
Alignment Selection – objectives, challenges and priorities
Station Locations – designed for the future traveller (including examples of what not to do)
Tony Watson, Project Director, Typsa
4:45
High-Speed Rail Stations: From Infrastructure to Integrated Urban Assets – Designing and delivering HSR hubs that unlock urban value, performance, and place
High-speed rail is one of the most significant infrastructure investments shaping the future of cities across Asia. While considerable attention is given to engineering, financing, and operations, the role of station design is often underestimated.
This presentation argues that high-speed rail stations must be understood not as isolated transport facilities, but as integrated urban assets that influence mobility, development, and long-term city growth. When designed purely for functional efficiency, stations risk underperforming in terms of value creation, user experience, and urban integration.
Drawing on Aedas’ extensive experience across more than 200 rail and HSR-related projects globally, the session will explore how architectural thinking can unlock additional value by integrating transport infrastructure with development, public realm, and city systems.
The presentation will introduce a performance-based approach to station design—moving beyond function to consider user experience, sustainability, and the concept of the “built ecosystem.” It will also address the critical challenge of delivery, demonstrating how early-stage design decisions can improve constructability, reduce risk, and enhance programme certainty.
Through selected case studies, the session will illustrate how high-speed rail stations can evolve into catalysts for urban transformation, contributing not only to mobility efficiency but also to economic, social, and environmental outcomes.
Frederico Ramos, Principal, Aedas
5:15
Chairman’s Closing Address
6:00 -
8:00
Exclusive Networking Evening Reception hosted by DB Engineering
Day 2, 10th June 2026, Wednesday
Financing Strategies, Delivery and Technology
9:00
Chairman’s Address
Tony Watson, Project Director, Typsa
9:10
A Competitive Financing Offer for Vietnam
UKEF is a ministerial government department operating as the UK’s export credit agency, supporting businesses of all sizes to invest and export overseas. Its financing supports global trade to deliver impact in the UK and internationally. UKEF’s offer for Vietnam can mobilise capital to support local economic growth and development, with a market capacity of over £5bn.
UKEF-backed financing can be economically competitive for Vietnam, unlocking preferential rates and longer-term tenors.
Main advantages:
Unlocks access to long-term funding
A UKEF-backed facility offers a tenor of up to 15 years plus construction period, versus 7 years for an uncovered commercial facility for most sectors.
UKEF can extend this tenor up to 22 years for clean growth projects.
De-risks lending to mobilise competitive rates
UKEF’s guarantee—backed by the full faith and credit of the UK Government (AA rating)—unlocks preferential rates for the borrower.
Provides patient and stable funding
As a member of the Paris Club, the UK takes a long-term partnership approach to debt restructuring.
Harry Nguyen, Country Head – Vietnam and Cambodia & Laos, UK Export Finance
9:40
The Capital Paradox: Trillions Available, Yet High-Speed Rail Remains Underfunded
As Vietnam advances its landmark North–South high-speed rail program and ASEAN accelerates cross-border corridor ambitions, the region stands at a pivotal moment in infrastructure development. Yet despite abundant global liquidity, many projects continue to face challenges in reaching financial close. Drawing on over two decades of experience with the Asian Development Bank and financing more than 10,000 km of rail infrastructure, this keynote explores why capital is not translating into delivery — and how ASEAN economies can bridge this gap.
Vietnam’s HSR ambition in the context of ASEAN connectivity and regional economic corridors
Why global capital is available—but bankable, investment-ready projects remain limited
Structural gaps in project preparation, institutional capacity, and risk allocation across emerging markets
Lessons from scaling high-speed rail in China and implications for Southeast Asia
The role of blended finance, multilateral institutions, and private capital in unlocking large-scale investment
Integrating high-speed rail with transit-oriented development (TOD), industrial clusters, and cross-border trade flows
Practical insights for governments, developers, and investors on transforming high-speed rail ambitions into credible, financeable, and regionally integrated infrastructure programs across Vietnam and ASEAN.
Manmohan Parkash, Global Thought Leader and Infrastructure Financing Expert / Former Senior Adviser, Office of the President, Asian Development Bank
10:10
High Speed Rail: A Catalyst for Transformation Across Asia
High-speed rail is fast becoming a catalyst for national transformation across Asia—enabling sustainable mobility, strengthening regional connectivity, and accelerating urban regeneration. In 2026, momentum is building in Southeast Asia, with Vietnam’s North–South high-speed rail program moving toward groundbreaking and Thailand advancing its Bangkok–Nakhon Ratchasima–Nong Khai corridor to connect with the wider Pan-Asian rail network. This presentation will unpick the implications for governments, investors, and industry—from bankable delivery models (including PPP) and station-area TOD/land-value capture to opportunities across railway operating systems, construction, and future operations.
T C Chew, Managing Director, APAC, Arup
10:40
Networking Morning Coffee
11:10
Overview HSR in the Middle East
Technical & Procurement risks during conflict in the ME
Supply Chain delays with shipping
Risk appetite in our capital HSR and rail projects in Saudi,UAE,Qatar and Kuwait
Interconnectors Saudi,UAE,Qatar and Kuwait in HSR
HSR Electrification v Diesel Electric Vs Bio Diesel/Synthetic Fuels
Risk HSR/Rail v Aviation in a risk environment in the ME
Protecting Infrastructure and technical application during construction and present operations during conflict
Present risk overview and project management during the Middle East crisis
Kent Donaldson, Executive Transport Adviser, Saudi Arabian Rail (SAR)/ Gulf Cooperative Council
11:40
Private investment in the High speed rail
Business case
Regulation
The importance of track access charge
Example of private investment
Adj. Prof Andrea Giuricin, CEO, TRA Consulting
12:10
Networking Lunch
1:10
Future of Systems Integration in HSR: AI, Automation and Autonomous Operations
The rapid expansion of high-speed rail networks across Asia and globally is creating unprecedented demands for capacity, operational reliability, safety assurance and passenger experience optimisation Traditional approaches to railway systems integration, which primarily focused on interfacing individual subsystems such as signalling, rolling stock, power supply and telecommunications, are no longer sufficient to meet the complexity of next-generation high-speed rail operations. The topic of discussion will cover the following key highlights:
How the future of high-speed rail will be shaped by a new paradigm of intelligent systems integration driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), advanced automation technologies and data-centric operational frameworks.
How integrated digital architectures can enable real-time operational decision-making, predictive asset management, adaptive traffic control and energy-efficient railway performance.
Discuss the progressive pathway towards autonomous train operations, supported by integrated control centres, digital twins and AI-enabled optimisation tools.
Drawing on international case studies and emerging technology trends, the presentation will highlight the critical role of system integrators in designing complex railway ecosystems while maintaining safety, interoperability and regulatory compliance.
Ir. Sri Viknesh Permalu, CEO, PMT Solutions Consult, Malaysia; Director, IRSE Malaysia Section
1:40
Economic Corridors: HSR as a Catalyst for Regional Development
Creating new industrial zones and employment clusters
Facilitating mobility for labor markets
Encouraging tourism and SME development along corridors
Evidence of GDP and productivity uplift
2:10
International Know-How-Transfer: Capacity-Building for Highspeed Rail and Beyond
Introduction of DB Rail Academy – the international training provider of Deutsche Bahn Group
Relevant Services for HSR
Specific challenges in HSR
Exampleprojects in Egypt, Greece, Azerbaidschan etc
Heiko Scholz, Global Director, DB Rail Academy, Part of DB E.C.O. Group
2:40
Networking Afternoon Tea
3:10
Closing Panel: "What’s Next? A Vision for HSR in 2050"
Intercontinental high-speed rail corridors
Fusion of HSR with smart cities and green energy
The digital rail economy of the future
Bold ideas for rethinking mobility in Asia Pacific
Moderator:Tony Watson, Project Director, Typsa Panelists: Dr Sara Cheung, Executive Advisor, Asia Era One
Prof. Dr. Andrea Giuricin, CEO, TRA Consulting
4:00
Chairman’s Closing Comments & Conference Wrap-Up
Panel of Industry Specialists:
H.E Iain Frew His Majesty’s Ambassador to Vietnam
Iain Grant Frew is a British diplomat currently serving as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Vietnam since August 2022. He joined the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in 2005 and has held a range of senior diplomatic roles across Europe, Russia, and South America.
His previous positions include Deputy Head of Mission in Brasília, Head of Mission in Riga, and senior roles in Brussels focusing on EU policy and budget matters. He also served as Head of the EU Exit Strategy Department at the FCO during 2016–2017. Earlier in his career, he worked in Moscow in political roles.
T C Chew Managing Director, APAC, Arup
TC is the Managing Director, APAC and the Global Rail Leader at Arup .
He leads a 6,400+ strong workforce of technical experts across 28 offices in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, creating value for clients and communities, and helping to realise the fast-growing region’s immense economic potential and sustainable development goals over the coming decade. As Global Rail Leader, TC leads an international team of rail experts working on the design and delivery of major multidisciplinary projects around the world. He specialises in rail transit systems, including high-speed, metros, light, and heavy rail. As a trusted advisor to governments and delivery bodies responsible for major rail projects, TC focuses unlocking the economic, social and environmental value of transport infrastructure.
Prior to Arup, as the President of Global Business Operations, TC led Samsung C&T’s international business operation, establishing it as a trusted Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) company. During his tenure as Projects Director at MTR Corporation, TC was responsible for all new railway projects in Hong Kong as well as MTR’s overseas ventures. At Bombardier Transportation in London as Head of Mass Transit in its systems division, TC oversaw major projects, including the London Underground Victoria Line upgrade and modernisation public-private partnership program.
TC spent eight years with Singapore Land Transport Authority he oversaw all of Singapore’s railway and road projects. He also had the privilege of working on the London Underground Jubilee Line Extension project where he led the overall E&M systems and integration process from concept design stage to commencement of project implementation. TC is an Arup Fellow, a chartered engineer and Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and professional institutions in the United Kingdom, the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences and the Hong Kong Institute of Directors. He graduated from Manchester University and holds a Bachelor and Master’s degree.
Dr Sara Cheung Executive Advisor, Asia Era One
Dr. Cheung is the Executive Advisor of Asia Era One Co. Ltd. Prior to her current appointment; she was the COO of Asia Era One and MD of City Line Asia Era One.Dr. Cheung has been very active in the railway industry and was Founder and CEO of Vision Skill Consulting founded in 2002 and serving clients globally. Prior to that, she worked at strategic levels for major companies including the Hong Kong MTR Corporation and Avery Dennison Corp (a member of the Fortune 500). She was advisor for many advisory committees of the Hong Kong government and universities prior to her global business ventures.Dr. Cheung has a bachelor’s degree in science and an MBA from the University of Hong Kong. She received her DBA from the University of Curtin, Australia.
Milind Nirmal
Executive Director, DB Engineering & Consulting
Milind Nirmal is an engineering and planning professional with over close to 30 years of experience in consulting, focusing on railway infrastructure, spanning urbanl, heavy haul and high‑speed rail, as well as and wider infrastructure projects. He has built and scaled highly successful engineering consulting businesses, led P&L, business development and client relations and future ready strategies. He holds a Masters Degree in Infrastructure Planning from Germany and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from India. He currently is responsible for the business of DB Engineering and Consulting and in the past has held leadership roles in Parsons Brinckerhoff, Wilbur Smith and with the Bangalore Agenda Task Force.
Tony Watson
Project Director, Typsa
Currently the Project Director for the Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC) of a 400km, mixed traffic line in Saudi Arabia, Tony is a Chartered Civil Engineer with over 23 years of global experience in delivering major transportation projects, from setting up teams, governance and frameworks, to physically managing the delivery of major infrastructure works.
Tony’s experience covers all forms of rail (Tram / LRT, Metro, conventional, freight and HSR) and the entire project lifecycle from feasibility through to testing and commissioning, including some of the biggest rail infrastructure projects in the world, from Asia Pacific, Middle East and Europe. is experience of working in multiple locations around the world, coupled with having worked as both a Client (Government and Government Linked Companies) and for major international consultants has given him the advantage of seeing the bigger picture and able to provide services to client organisations, consultants and contractors, being able to view problems from all side’s perspectives. Tony’s portfolio includes the following major rail projects (working as):
Kuala Lumpur to Singapore HSR (Client)
Rail Baltica (Client)
Klang Valley MRT2 (Consultant)
Abu Dhabi Public Transport Scheme (Client)
Crossrail (Consultant)
Taiwan High Speed Rail (Consultant)
With very few cross border rail services globally (excluding the existing European Network in the Schengen Area), Tony has experience on two major cross border projects which has given him a distinct understanding of the complexities involved when dealing with infrastructure and services which need to satisfy multiple sets of requirements and governance.
Tim Parker CEO, HSR Authority of Australia
Tim Parker is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Government’s High Speed Rail Authority responsible for leading the development of a national high speed rail network in Australia.
With more than 30 years of experience in mega projects in Asia and Australia, Tim brings to the role extensive leadership and project experience in developing and delivering complex infrastructure projects.
Tim was previously Head of Delivery for Australia’s biggest public transport project, Sydney Metro, from 2018 to 2024. In this role he provided leadership, strategy and governance across a portfolio of innovative automated metro rail projects, covering front-end development, delivery management, contract negotiation and contract management with a total value of more than AU$50 billion.
Tim is an experienced and influential leader, bringing a measured and flexible approach to issue resolution and risk management – motivating teams and building strong partnerships between client and delivery partners.
His notable mega project experience includes Hong Kong International Airport, Epping to Chatswood Rail Link, Sydney’s new convention centre at Darling Harbour, Sydney’s NorthConnex road tunnel and Sydney Metro.
Ir. Sri Viknesh Permalu CEO, PMT Solutions Consult, Malaysia;
Director, IRSE Malaysia Section
Sri Viknesh is the founder and principal consultant of PMT Solutions Consult (PMTS), a Malaysian rail systems consultancy dedicated to delivering expert advisory and engineering services across the railway sector. A Chartered Engineer and ASEAN Professional Engineer with over 18 years of experience, Sri has played key roles in Malaysia’s railway development, as a main contractor, government representative, project delivery partner, and consultant. His portfolio spans high-speed rail planning, urban transit, and mainline project execution. Also as Director and National Secretary of the IRSE Malaysia Section, Sri continues to champion technical excellence and local capacity building in rail systems.
Adj. Prof Andrea Giuricin CEO,TRA Consulting
Adj.Prof. Dr. Andrea Giuricin is CEO of TRA consulting, a strategic consultancy company and he worked in the first HSR markets open to the competition (Italy, South Korea, Spain and France) as strategic and operational consultant for the CEOs and top managers. He is senior transport consultant for the World Bank, reforming the transport sector in Asia, Middle East and Africa.
He is teaching Transport Economics at University Milano Bicocca in Italy. In the same University he is responsible at CESISP – Unimib for the laboratory on rail and he is adj. Prof. at University of Southern California, United States. He is also former visiting professor at China Academy of Railway Sciences and also professor at UIC and College of Europe. Dr. Andrea Giuricin cooperates and works with several Transport Authorities with the European Commission and European Railway Agency.
Kent Donaldson Executive Transport Adviser, Saudi Arabian Rail (SAR)/ Gulf Cooperative Council
Kent has over 50 years of experience in senior executive positions in both rail and aviation industries. He has served as a CEO, COO, and Director in significant engineering, infrastructure, operational management, governance, and safety projects within both government and private sectors. His roles have spanned Australia, the Middle East, and Asia, where he has successfully driven the delivery of major rail and aviation projects through innovative change and specialized knowledge.
Kent has effectively managed large workforces comprising diverse cultural backgrounds. He has also been extensively involved with Australian and European regulatory bodies in managing change.
Juergen Czilinsky Vice President, Discovery Group – JSC
Frederico Ramos Principal, Aedas
Frederico is a Principal of Aedas with over 30 years of experience, a degree in architecture, a degree in environmental and territorial planning, and has completed projects across 5 continents in infrastructure, healthcare, hospitality, commercial, institutional, educational, and residential works. Frederico has an exceptional railway infrastructure portfolio, particularly in collocated cross-border high-speed rail facilities, including the West Kowloon Terminus, Bandar Malaysia terminus, Iskandar Puteri International Station, and the Singapore HSR feasibility study. His rail experience also includes the Yangon Central Station Masterplan and New Railway Station redevelopment, Melbourne Metro, and the Singapore CRL. Frederico is particularly experienced in large-scale, complex and fast-track projects such as the Macao Venetian Cotai Strip, and the Suntec City Projects.
A digital and technology enthusiast, Frederico is heavily involved in BIM/VDC+O and Healthcare Architecture promotion and has won several international awards, including the 1st Runner-Up in the BCA international BIM competition, and the “Graphisoft Design Competition: Algorithmic Design Meets BIM”. Most recently, Frederico led a team at the Singapore Institute of Architects’ 2025 AI Hackathon, winning the Innovation Award for an AI concept that streamlines documentation saving up to 70% manual effort.
He has been invited to speak at leading industry conferences in Singapore, Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Hanoi, Osaka, Tokyo, Lisbon, Porto, Aveiro, Coimbra, Viena, Stockholm, and Riyadh.
Mark Wild CEO, UK HS2
Mark Wild, OBE, FREng, became CEO of HS2 Ltd in December 2024, and is leading a programme-wide reset of the UK’s high-speed rail project. High Speed Two is at peak construction and will connect London, Birmingham and the West Midlands with 140 miles of new track, releasing capacity and improving reliability across the rail network, and stimulating economic growth between the Briain’s two biggest cities.
Mark has a proven track record of delivering transformational change on large infrastructure projects. As CEO of Crossrail from 2018 to 2022, Mark led a rescue and recovery of the £20bn programme to deliver one of the world’s most advanced high-frequency passenger rail services – now known as the Elizabeth Line.
Mark has over 35 years of experience heading up public and private sector companies across the globe, in both. He joined HS2 Ltd from SGN, overseeing operations for one of the UK's largest gas distribution networks. His previous career has focused on running and building major transport networks. He's led Westinghouse Signals, headed up Public Transport Victoria in Melbourne, and managed London Underground.
Safety for the workforce and passengers are at the heart of Mark's approach. He fosters a sense of unity to deliver in complex environments and champions the development of the next diverse generation of engineers to lead the industry forward.
A proud Northeasterner who grew up in Durham, Mark is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and holds both a first-class engineering degree and an MBA from Leeds University.
Brian Murray Project Director, SAMAN
Brian has amassed 46 years on major Rail projects throughout the world mostly in Programme and Project Director roles. He commenced his career in the Engineering Field prior to moving into Program and Project Management and via this experience he has been exposed to all delivery models and project funding arrangements including Government Funded, P3 (BOT, DBFOM and DBF). He has led Programs and Projects successfully through all stages of their lifecycle in UK, Europe, HK, Abu Dhabi, Malaysia and Canada. Brian possesses an Engineering Degree, a Law Degree and an MBA.
Giles Thomas Principal, High Speed Rail, Technical Director, Arup
Giles brings nearly four decades of experience delivering complex, city-shaping rail programmes across the UK, Europe, Asia Pacific and the United States. He has held senior leadership roles on some of the world’s most significant rail and transport infrastructure projects, including High Speed Two (HS2) in the United Kingdom and the £6 billion Thameslink Programme. His career spans government, client, and contractor roles, providing him with a rare end-to-end perspective on major programme development, integration and delivery.
Heiko Scholz Global Director, DB Rail Academy, Part of DB E.C.O. Group
Heiko Scholz is an internationally experienced executive with over 30 years in the railway sector. His career spans senior strategic leadership at Deutsche Bahn to overseeing operations for 200 railway stations across central Germany, managing 10,000 assets and serving around 2 million passengers daily. He has held responsibility for both strategic and operational domains at the highest level. A decade ago, he founded the DB Rail Academy, Deutsche Bahn’s international training and development institute. As Global Director, he now leads its activities in more than 40 countries worldwide.
Manmohan Parkash Global Thought Leader and Infrastructure Financing Expert/Former Senior Adviser, Office of the President, Asian Development Bank
Mr. Parkash is a global thought leader in infrastructure finance with over 40 years of experience across Asia Pacific. He played a pioneering role in the development of high-speed rail in China, mobilising over $25 billion in financing from multiple sources. Over his career at the Asian Development Bank and the Government of India, he has helped shape major infrastructure programs and contributed to the delivery of over 10,000 km of rail projects. His expertise spans blended finance, complex project structuring, and large-scale infrastructure delivery, and he is widely recognised for building high-impact partnerships across governments, multilaterals, and the private sector.
Harry Hoa Nguyen Country Head – Vietnam and Cambodia & Laos, UK Export Finance
Harry is the first Vietnamese Country Head of The United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) for Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos.
Harry joined UKEF in 2024 as Country Head of UKEF for Vietnam & Philippines. He was previously at Cathay United Bank (Taiwan & Singapore) and Kasikornbank (Thailand), where he spent 15 years in Corporate Banking, specialized in syndication & structured finance departments.
He has a regional outlook and proven track record helping customers expand their business in Indo-Pacific region. At his previous position, he managed businesses across Asean countries, Hongkong and Taiwan, and was most recently the Head of Corporate Banking- Vice President at KBank-Vietnam.
Endorsers:
Rail Personnel is an internationally recognised rail recruitment specialist that has been delivering staffing solutions and job opportunities to a worldwide clientele for over 15 years. Our expert recruiters have international experience and in-depth knowledge of the rail industry. We can provide skilled engineer and operations staff to do design, construction and maintenance in all rail disciplines, either on contract or to fill permanent positions.
Our database profiles over 35,000 rail professionals, allowing us to source candidates globally. More than 7,000 visitors access the Rail Personnel website each month for information about jobs, rail people and latest developments in the rail industry.
Established in 1997, the IARO is a world-wide organisation dedicated to spreading world-class best practice and good workable ideas among people interested in rail links to airports and air-rail intermodality. Over the past 25 years, the IARO has built up an unparalleled network of organisations actively involved in planning, developing, building and operating rail air links - and also other stakeholders, such as airlines, who have a business interest in partnerships for their success.The IARO community facilitates the exchange of experience, ideas and information, offering genuine insight and sector intelligence to its membership. This is achieved through access to our databases, research reports, newsletters, workshops, seminars, archives and via direct contact with fellow members.
The International Power Professionals Forum (IPPF) is an independent, global network of senior executives and decision-makers working across the power and energy landscape. IPPF provides a trusted, non-promotional environment for cross-disciplinary dialogue on the technologies, markets, policies, and risks shaping how power is produced, financed, secured, and consumed—from legacy systems to emerging models at the intersection of energy, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence,and infrastructure. Its mission is to advance careers, ideas, and businesses in a rapidly evolving global energy environment.
The Institute of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE) is a leading international professional body for those engaged in railway signalling, telecommunications, and related disciplines. Founded in the UK, it supports the development and recognition of professionals in the rail industry worldwide. The IRSE Malaysia Section is committed to advancing the institute’s mission in the region. Actively fostering a strong professional community, the Malaysia Section continuously promotes IRSE membership as a pathway for career growth and industry excellence. In its ongoing efforts to engage members and the wider rail sector, IRSE Malaysia organizes regular events such as Evening Talks. These sessions cover a wide range of topics—from technical advancements to industry best practices—providing valuable platforms for knowledge sharing and professional development.
Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL) is the operator of KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit services that connect Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA T1 & T2) and the city.
This year marks ERL’s 24 years of service. Throughout the years, ERL has taken many initiatives to deliver a safe and reliable public transport system. ERL has also been recognised locally and internationally for consistently providing high standards of service. Since its service launch in April 2002, ERL has carried over 137 million passengers onboard its trains and has consistently maintained its 99.7% on-time service performance record.
Incorporated in 1996, ERL is a private limited company owned by Malaysia’s foremost companies. YTL Corporation Berhad, Lembaga Tabung Haji, SIPP Rail Sdn Bhd and Trisilco Equity Sdn Bhd. The operations and maintenance are efficiently managed by ERL Maintenance Support Sdn Bhd (E-MAS).
We advise on, plan and design the future of the built environment. As a global consultancy with technical and advisory expertise across more than 150 disciplines, we bring a Total Design approach to our work with our clients. This is how we shape a better world.
Our rail experts bring decades of experience working with major international railways at every stage – from initial vision, to design and delivery of new projects or large-scale enhancements, through to operations, maintenance and asset renewals of some of the world’s busiest railways. We work with public and private sector clients to unlock the transformative potential that low carbon and resilient railways can bring to people, communities, economies and the environment.
SAMAN is a multidisciplinary engineering firm that excels in delivering integrated solutions across infrastructure, with particular strength in all areas of railway and transit systems. Built on several decades of experience and a proven track record in major domestic and international rail mega-projects, SAMAN provides end-to-end services spanning planning, design, and project delivery.
Driven by technical excellence and innovation, SAMAN creates sustainable, future-ready mobility solutions that generate lasting value for clients and communities.
We offer Deutsche Bahn's globally recognized expertise all the way from the idea stage to operations, and all from a single source. We advise our customers in Germany and around the world, and work with them to develop innovative, technically sophisticated and customized infrastructure, mobility and transport solutions. By offering sustainable ideas and solutions, we help to ensure the future success of economic regions and make an important contribution to environmental protection, thereby shaping the world of tomorrow.
DB Engineering & Consulting services include: Engineering – Design, Construction Supervision, Project Management, Environment, Geotechnics and Surveying, Design and acceptance testing Consulting – Mobility and logistics consulting, Digital services and solutions
We are a Malaysian engineering consulting firm specializing in Railway Engineering, Digital Engineering, and technical solution services. Powered by homegrown talent and strong local expertise, we deliver high-quality, future-ready solutions that meet global standards while staying true to our core values of integrity, safety, and innovation.
Metro Rail News is an exclusive and leading online news portal and monthly Magazine which bring news, updates, Industry insights, technical information, research report, business information, passenger information from various mass rapid transit systems like Metro, Railways, Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), Monorail, High-Speed Rail (HSR), Subways, Trams, Hyperloop technology, metro coach factories and associated industries in India. In addition, Metro Rail News offers business, advertisement and media partnership opportunities to individuals, business organizations, event planners, metro railways, OEMs and coach factories worldwide. Our Magazine has presently 10000+ print subscribers and 125000+ digital subscribers from relevant industries and growing rapidly. You will be glad to know that most of our subscribers belong to the decision-maker community of the industry.
Metro Rail News product & services details: Magazine, News Portal, Daily Newsletter, Strategic Business Consulting, Active Tender & Business Alert, Project Sub-Contracting Solution, Vendor Registration & Approval, Project Progress & Media Monitoring, Infrastructure PR & Brand Management, Industry Market Research and Forecasting, Customer Feedback Survey, Corporate Interview & Media Planning, Media Support for Industry Events, Digital and Print Advertising. Metro Rail News‘s office is located in New Delhi, India and the portal and Magazine is owned and published by one of renowned & leading Infrastructure PR and Media company named Symbroj Media Pvt. Ltd.
Rail Analysis is a Prominent Rail Print, Digital and Online Media specializing in Railways and Metro Sector of India covering projects such as Traditional Railways, Modern Systems, Metro Systems, High Speed Rail and Station Redevelopment projects. We continue to be focused on the promotion of the Railway Industry development in India and its future growth towards innovation and modernization.
Our Magazine is sent to Indian and Global Railway Professionals & Major marketing platform, distributed to the decision makers of the Railways Industry in India.
It provides the latest news and updates on Indian projects for International companies to connect with each other and collaborate for projects in India along with information and analysis on railway projects in India.
Railway-News is the rail industry's go-to digital platform for news, insight, and supplier discovery – connecting professionals across every corner of the global rail sector every day.
Whether you're delivering high-speed infrastructure, supplying advanced signalling systems, or financing the next generation of rail corridors and everything in between, Railway-News puts your company in front of the decision-makers who matter. Our supplier directory is trusted by rail authorities, operators, engineers and procurement teams worldwide searching for partners, products and expertise.
As Asia Pacific accelerates its high-speed rail ambitions, visibility in the right places has never been more important. A listing on Railway-News ensures your organisation is found when it counts – by the people actively shaping the future of rail.
Tunnelbuilder has consistently been a leading source for the latest tunneling tenders, awards, and invaluable news within the industry. With an unwavering commitment to providing up-to-date and comprehensive information, Tunnelbuilder serves as an indispensable platform for professionals seeking opportunities and insights in the tunnel construction sector. One of Tunnelbuilder's core strengths lies in its ability to connect businesses with lucrative prospects. By showcasing tenders and awards from around the world, it acts as a catalyst for companies looking to expand their operations or embark on new ventures. Tunnelbuilder not only informs but also actively supports businesses in promoting their services and expertise to a global audience, fostering growth and collaboration within the tunneling community.
TunnelBuilder offers unparalleled exposure to a global audience of tunneling professionals and stakeholders. Maximize your company's visibility, showcase your expertise, and secure valuable contracts by leveraging our platform's extensive reach. Join us to connect, grow, and thrive in the tunnel construction industry. In summary, Tunnelbuilder's role as a premier source for tunneling tenders and news, coupled with its dedication to facilitating industry promotion, makes it an invaluable asset for professionals and businesses operating in the tunnel construction domain.
InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72
Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower, Plot E6 Cau Giay New Urban Area,
Yen Hoa Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel: +84 (24) 369 88888
Map to InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72, please click HERE
Accommodation:
Classic King Room (Single Occupancy Inclusive of Breakfast) – USD148 net per night
Classic King Room (Double Occupancy Inclusive of Breakfast)) – USD165 net per night
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