News Point MsiaSing's
Friday, June 19, 2026
CIMB introduces first-of-its-kind First Car Solution for new car owners
The programme includes two years of complimentary road tax renewal, comprehensive financing, Purchase Price GAP protection and credit card benefits
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- CIMB Bank Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Bank”) has announced its “First Car Solution” (“the Programme”), aimed at providing first-time car owners automotive financing with competitive financing rates, complemented by essential financial protection facilities, including insurance and Takaful protection, as well as CIMB credit cards. The comprehensive ecosystem is designed to assist customers aged 18 to 30 years old in effectively managing their finances through tailored financing and protection options. With this initiative, CIMB reinforces its position as the preferred banking partner for lifestyle and mobility needs, delivering affordable and flexible solutions for aspiring car owners.
First-time car buyers will enjoy complimentary road tax renewal for two years amounting to RM240, making CIMB the first bank in Malaysia to offer this value-added facility. Competitive financing rates make the car‑buying process more convenient and accessible. The inclusion of insurance and Takaful protection through Bancassurance Financing offers a safety net against unforeseen circumstances such as accidents or life events that may impact financial commitments, offered at a minimal cost to deliver greater peace of mind. A key benefit includes full payout of purchase price for a car in case of total loss, available with Purchase Price GAP (“PPG”) insurance. PPG covers the difference between motor insurance payout and the original purchase price of the vehicle. The First Car Solution reflects the Bank’s brand promise of “Moving You Forward”, enabling customers with access and opportunities so that they can progress to achieve their long-term goals.
Gurdip Singh Sidhu, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Malaysia and CIMB Bank Berhad said, “Car ownership in Malaysia requires careful consideration, particularly for first-time buyers navigating competitive vehicle prices and balancing rising living costs. Beyond access to financing, buyers should ensure monthly commitments remain manageable over time. CIMB’s First Car Solution reflects CIMB’s approach to responsible lending by incorporating features that help reduce common cost pressures associated with car ownership, such as road tax and insurance protection. By addressing these practical considerations upfront, we aim to support customers in making informed ownership decisions that are financially sustainable.”
Meanwhile, credit card privileges promote responsible spending habits and provide added value to customers including cashback on petrol and car related expenses of up to RM1,200 per annum, as well as groceries and dining cash rebates. These offerings help alleviate the financial obligations associated with car ownership, ensuring first-time car owners focus on their mobility needs without worrying about additional expenses, while empowering them to cultivate sound financial practices for the future.
Haniz Nazlan, Chief Executive Officer of Group Consumer Banking, CIMB Group, said, “We understand that, for young adults it is not just about owning a car, but it is also important to build a foundation for financial independence and security. The Programme is designed to make that goal happen through a well-structured car ownership programme to help the buyer in planning for long-term financial wellbeing. By combining lifestyle benefits and protection plans, we’re helping the next generation build financial resilience and make sustainable financial choices whilst staying committed to our broader purpose of advancing customers and society.”
For more information about the Programme, please visit https://www.cimb.com.my/firstcar. Terms and conditions apply.
About CIMB
CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM81.6 billion as at 31 March 2026. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present across ASEAN in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines.
Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 545 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 31 March 2026. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its award-winning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 91.45% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.83% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.
SOURCE: CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Anis Azharuddin / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com
--BERNAMA
Defiance Launches Europe’s First Memory UCITS ETF (DRAM)
- Defiance has expanded its European ETF lineup with the launch of the Defiance Memory UCITS ETF (ticker: DRAM).
- The ETF seeks to provide exposure to companies involved in the development, manufacturing, commercialisation, and storage of memory semiconductors and data storage systems.
- In the U.S., memory-focused ETFs have gathered around $20 billion in assets under management (AUM).1
- The ETF is listed on Xetra and Borsa Italiana, with the London Stock Exchange to follow.
MIAMI, June 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Defiance ETFs is excited to announce the launch of the Defiance Memory UCITS ETF (ticker: DRAM), Europe’s first memory ETF. The Fund seeks to provide exposure to companies involved in the development, manufacturing, commercialisation, and storage of memory semiconductors and data storage systems.
Defiance Memory UCITS ETF
ISIN: IE000CEUZ052
TER: 0.69%
Exchange Bloomberg Ticker SEDOL Trading Currency
Xetra DRAM GY BVVG296 EUR
Borsa Italiana DRAM IM BVVG2B8 USD
Memory prices are moving higher. Demand from AI, cloud computing, and data centres is absorbing a growing share of advanced memory capacity, while major manufacturers are prioritising higher-margin areas such as high-bandwidth memory and server-grade DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) over more commoditised consumer applications.2
This shift is creating pressure across the wider technology supply chain. As supply is redirected towards AI infrastructure and hyperscale data centres, manufacturers of everyday devices are facing higher input costs and tighter availability.
This year, it is expected that there will not be enough memory to meet worldwide demand.3 DRAM and solid-state drive (SSD) prices could rise as much as 130% by the end of 2026, according to Gartner.4
Exposure to the memory sector through ETFs has so far only been possible in the U.S., where assets are now around $20 billion.5 The Defiance Memory UCITS ETF seeks to give European investors the opportunity to access the memory sector, which will need to expand to keep up with AI-driven demand.
This is Defiance’s 4th launch since entering the European UCITS ETF market earlier this year.
Defiance UCITS Lineup Ticker
Defiance AI & Power Infrastructure UCITS ETF AIPO
Defiance Memory UCITS ETF DRAM
Drone UCITS ETF DRON
Ukraine Reconstruction UCITS ETF UKRN
Sylvia Jablonski, CIO of Defiance ETFs, commented: “Memory is the foundational layer of the AI economy. Every model training run, inference workload, and hyperscale data centre expansion depends on DRAM, HBM, and advanced storage. DRAM gives European investors a direct, rules-based way to access this segment of the AI value chain, complementing the power infrastructure exposure already available through AIPO.”
Hector McNeil, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of HANetf, commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with Defiance to launch the Defiance Memory UCITS ETF. The ETF captures a sector that has seen significant growth recently, driven predominantly by the rise of AI and its infrastructure. This ETF particularly complements Defiance’s AIPO ETF, which provides access to the power infrastructure behind the AI buildout.”
For full fund details, including the prospectus and Key Information Document, visit hanetf.com.
About Defiance ETFs
Founded in 2018, Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs. The firm manages 75+ ETFs designed to provide targeted exposure to high-growth sectors including AI infrastructure, quantum computing, drones and modern warfare, and other emerging technologies.
About HANetf
HANetf is an independent provider of UCITS ETFs, working with asset management companies to bring differentiated, modern, and innovative exposures to European ETF investors. Via our white-label ETF platform, HANetf provides a complete operational, regulatory, distribution and marketing solution for asset managers to launch and manage UCITS ETFs. www.hanetf.com
Media Contact
Brenda Hentschel | bhentschel@gregoryagency.com | 201.705.3758
For European media enquiries:
Italy: Elena Soffientini, Mymediarelation | soffientini@mymediarelation.it | +39 375 670 62 07
Germany: Caroline Chojnowski, Public Imaging | Caroline.Chojnowski@publicimaging.de | +49 (0)40-401 999 - 23
Important Information
Communications issued in the European Economic Area (“EEA”)
The content in this document is issued and approved by HANetf EU Limited (“HANetf EU”). HANetf EU is authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. HANetf EU is registered in Ireland with registration number 728832.
Communications issued in the UK
The content in this document is issued by HANetf Limited (“HANetf”) and approved by Privium Fund Management (UK) Limited (“Privium”). HANetf is an appointed representative of Privium, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The registered office of Privium is The Shard, 24th Floor, 32 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9SG.
This communication has been prepared for professional investors, but the ETCs and ETFs set out in this communication (“Products”) may be available in some jurisdictions to any investors. Please check with your broker or intermediary that the relevant Product is available in your jurisdiction and suitable for your investment profile.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The price of the Products may vary and they do not offer a fixed income.
This document may contain forward looking statements including statements regarding our belief or current expectations with regards to the performance of certain assets classes. Forward looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. There can be no assurance that such statements will be accurate and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Therefore, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
The content of this document is for information purposes and for your internal use only, and does not constitute an investment advice, recommendation, investment research or an offer for sale nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any Product or make any investment.
An investment in an exchange traded product is dependent on the performance of the underlying asset class, less costs, but it is not expected to track that performance exactly. The Products involve numerous risks including among others, general market risks relating to underlying adverse price movements in an Index (for ETFs) or underlying asset class and currency, liquidity, operational, legal and regulatory risks. In addition, in relation to Cryptocurrency ETCs, these are highly volatile digital assets and performance is unpredictable.
The information contained on this document is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, an advertisement or any other step in furtherance of a public offering of securities in the United States or any province or territory thereof, where none of the Issuers (as defined below) or their Products are authorised or registered for distribution and where no prospectus of any of the Issuers has been filed with any securities commission or regulatory authority. No document or information on this document should be taken, transmitted or distributed (directly or indirectly) into the United States. None of the Issuers, nor any securities issued by it, have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 or the Investment Company Act of 1940 or qualified under any applicable state securities statutes.
The Issuers:
1. HANetf ICAV and HANetf ICAV II are open-ended Irish collective asset management vehicles and are the issuers of the ETFs under the terms in the relevant Prospectuses and relevant Supplements for each ETF approved by the Central Bank of Ireland (“CBI”) (each an “ETF Prospectus” and together the “ETF Prospectuses”). Investors should read the current version of the relevant ETF Prospectus before investing and should refer to the section of the relevant ETF Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETFs. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the ETF Prospectuses.
2. HANetf ETC Securities plc, a public limited company incorporated in Ireland, issuing under the terms in the Base Prospectus approved by the Central Bank of Ireland and the final terms of the relevant series (“ETC Securities Documentation”) is the issuer of the precious metals ETCs. Investors should read the latest version of the ETC Securities Documentation before investing and should refer to the section of the Base Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETCs. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the ETC Securities Documentation.
3. Bitwise Europe GmbH, a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany, issuing under the terms in the Prospectus approved by the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (“BaFin”) and the final terms (“Cryptocurrency Prospectus”) is the issuer of the ETCM ETCs. Investors should read the latest version of the Cryptocurrency Prospectus before investing and should refer to the section of the Cryptocurrency Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETCs contained in the Cryptocurrency Prospectus. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the Cryptocurrency Prospectus.
4. HANetf Multi-Asset ETC Issuer plc, a public company incorporated in Jersey, issuing under the terms in the Base Prospectuses approved by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Sw. Finansinspektionen) (the “SFSA”), the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) and the final terms of the relevant series (“Multi-Asset ETC Securities Documentation”) is the issuer of ETCs linked to and secured by various underlying assets. Investors should read the latest version of the ETC Securities Documentation before investing and should refer to the section of the relevant Base Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETCs. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the ETC Securities Documentation.
The relevant ETF Prospectuses, ETC Securities Documentation, Multi-Asset ETC Securities Documentation and Cryptocurrency Prospectus can all be downloaded from www.hanetf.com.
The decision and amount to invest in any Product should take into consideration your specific circumstances after seeking independent investment, tax and legal advice. We do not control and are not responsible for the content of third-party websites.
We believe the information in this document is based on reliable sources, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The views expressed are the views of HANetf at time of publication and may change. Neither Privium nor HANetf is liable for any losses relating to the accuracy, completeness or use of information in this communication, including any consequential loss.
FOR SWISS INVESTORS ONLY: The Fund has appointed as Swiss Representative Waystone Fund Services (Switzerland) SA, Av. Villamont 17, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland, Tel: +41 21 311 17 77, email: switzerland@waystone.com. The Fund’s Swiss paying agent is Helvetische Bank AG. The Prospectus, the Key Investor Information Documents, the Instrument of Incorporation as well as the annual and semi-annual reports may be obtained free of charge from the Swiss Representative in Lausanne. The issue and redemption prices are published at each issue and redemption on www.fundinfo.com.
1Source: ETFBook. Data as at 06/16/2026.
2Source: Forbes, 2026.
3Source: CNBC, 2026.
4Source: Gartner, 2026.
5Source: ETFBook. Data as at 06/16/2026.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a566fcca-b8ad-4109-9d41-2af9ee73c275
SOURCE: Defiance ETFs
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
MAVENIR LAUNCHES UNIFIED DIGITAL APP FOR ENET
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Mavenir, the cloud-native network software provider, has launched a unified digital platform for Guyanese telecommunications operator ENet, bringing mobile, broadband, fixed-line and IPTV services into a single application (app).
The My ENet App enables consumer and enterprise customers to manage voice, SMS, data, broadband, fixed-line and IPTV services through one digital platform, replacing multiple apps previously used across different business support systems.
According to Mavenir in a statement, the app integrates customer onboarding, self-service functions, payments, loyalty programmes and eSIM provisioning, providing users with a single digital touchpoint for managing their services.
Mavenir Senior Vice President and General Manager of Business Solutions, Sandeep Singh said the app demonstrates how telecommunications operators can use digital platforms to expand beyond traditional connectivity services and develop new monetisation opportunities.
Meanwhile, ENet Chief Executive Officer, Vishok Persaud said the platform delivers a more streamlined customer experience while creating opportunities for future digital services and innovation.
A key feature of the app is a centralised digital wallet that allows customers to manage payments across all ENet services through a single account. The capability could support future third-party payment services and new digital revenue opportunities.
The platform was built on Mavenir’s Digital Enablement platform and delivered through the company's Agile Delivery Squad model, which provides dedicated development resources for ongoing enhancements and system integration. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices.
The launch builds on a long-standing partnership between the two companies. In 2023, ENet launched new 4G and 5G services in Guyana powered by Mavenir's cloud-native IMS and Digital BSS, laying the foundation for the latest digital transformation initiative.
-- BERNAMA
The My ENet App enables consumer and enterprise customers to manage voice, SMS, data, broadband, fixed-line and IPTV services through one digital platform, replacing multiple apps previously used across different business support systems.
According to Mavenir in a statement, the app integrates customer onboarding, self-service functions, payments, loyalty programmes and eSIM provisioning, providing users with a single digital touchpoint for managing their services.
Mavenir Senior Vice President and General Manager of Business Solutions, Sandeep Singh said the app demonstrates how telecommunications operators can use digital platforms to expand beyond traditional connectivity services and develop new monetisation opportunities.
Meanwhile, ENet Chief Executive Officer, Vishok Persaud said the platform delivers a more streamlined customer experience while creating opportunities for future digital services and innovation.
A key feature of the app is a centralised digital wallet that allows customers to manage payments across all ENet services through a single account. The capability could support future third-party payment services and new digital revenue opportunities.
The platform was built on Mavenir’s Digital Enablement platform and delivered through the company's Agile Delivery Squad model, which provides dedicated development resources for ongoing enhancements and system integration. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices.
The launch builds on a long-standing partnership between the two companies. In 2023, ENet launched new 4G and 5G services in Guyana powered by Mavenir's cloud-native IMS and Digital BSS, laying the foundation for the latest digital transformation initiative.
-- BERNAMA
MAVENIR, RED HAT LAUNCH AI MONETISATION PLATFORM
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Mavenir has launched an integrated artificial intelligence (AI) platform developed in collaboration with Red Hat, enabling network operators to offer and bill AI services through token-based consumption models using existing telecom billing systems.
The platform combines Mavenir's AI software with Red Hat's AI and Kubernetes capabilities running on Red Hat OpenShift, allowing operators to deploy AI services on their own infrastructure while maintaining control over pricing, service levels, data and model selection.
Mavenir Chief Technology and Strategy Officer, Bejoy Pankajakshan said the platform enables operators to become AI service providers rather than merely supplying connectivity.
He said operators would be able to monetise AI usage through existing business support systems while retaining control over data, pricing and service quality.
Meanwhile, Red Hat Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President of Global Engineering, Chris Wright said the hybrid architecture allows operators to run most AI workloads on sovereign on-premises infrastructure while selectively connecting to external models when advanced capabilities are required.
In a statement, Mavenir said the platform supports three operating models: operator-branded AI services for subscribers, AI infrastructure for operator-managed AI grid deployments, and managed AI services for enterprise customers on a token-based consumption basis.
The company said the platform is designed to help operators generate new revenue streams from AI services through token-based plans, while providing control over data sovereignty, service assurance and spending on external AI models. The architecture supports both on-premises small language models and selective access to advanced frontier models through policy-based routing.
The platform includes AI operations, model management, token charging and billing capabilities, as well as security and service assurance features designed for carrier-grade deployments.
Mavenir will showcase the platform at DTW Ignite 2026, which takes place from June 23 to 25.
-- BERNAMA
The platform combines Mavenir's AI software with Red Hat's AI and Kubernetes capabilities running on Red Hat OpenShift, allowing operators to deploy AI services on their own infrastructure while maintaining control over pricing, service levels, data and model selection.
Mavenir Chief Technology and Strategy Officer, Bejoy Pankajakshan said the platform enables operators to become AI service providers rather than merely supplying connectivity.
He said operators would be able to monetise AI usage through existing business support systems while retaining control over data, pricing and service quality.
Meanwhile, Red Hat Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President of Global Engineering, Chris Wright said the hybrid architecture allows operators to run most AI workloads on sovereign on-premises infrastructure while selectively connecting to external models when advanced capabilities are required.
In a statement, Mavenir said the platform supports three operating models: operator-branded AI services for subscribers, AI infrastructure for operator-managed AI grid deployments, and managed AI services for enterprise customers on a token-based consumption basis.
The company said the platform is designed to help operators generate new revenue streams from AI services through token-based plans, while providing control over data sovereignty, service assurance and spending on external AI models. The architecture supports both on-premises small language models and selective access to advanced frontier models through policy-based routing.
The platform includes AI operations, model management, token charging and billing capabilities, as well as security and service assurance features designed for carrier-grade deployments.
Mavenir will showcase the platform at DTW Ignite 2026, which takes place from June 23 to 25.
-- BERNAMA
DAICEL POM POWDER ENABLES STICK LUBRICANT INNOVATION
KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- Daicel Corporation’s High Performance Polymers Strategic Business Unit (formerly Polyplastics Co Ltd) has announced its DURAST POM fine powder has been adopted in a new stick-form lubricant developed by Japan-based Maia Co Ltd, marking a novel application for the engineering plastic material in maintenance operations.
The solid lubricant is designed to address common issues associated with conventional liquid lubricants, including dripping, splattering and waste resulting from over-application.
By incorporating DURAST POM fine powder, the product aims to improve efficiency and cleanliness across a range of maintenance environments, according to Daicel in a statement.
The lubricant is manufactured using Maia’s proprietary Sol-Mid technology, which enables the product to be supplied in a stick-shaped format and moulded into customised forms according to customer requirements.
The formulation combines ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) with grease, and DURAST POM acts as an interlayer that helps maintain compatibility between the two components.
The stick format eliminates the risk of leakage typically associated with liquid lubricants while offering greater portability for maintenance personnel servicing office equipment and industrial machinery. The product can reduce the use of conventional maintenance oil by around 80 per cent in office equipment applications.
Daicel said it developed a proprietary manufacturing process for DURAST POM after conventional grinding methods proved unsuitable for producing uniform powders from general-purpose resins. The resulting material features a distinctive particle shape and a controlled, fine and sharp particle size distribution.
The company plans to commercialise the solution on a larger scale, targeting maintenance applications for major office equipment manufacturers as well as industrial sectors including machinery repair, bicycle maintenance and conveyor systems.
-- BERNAMA
The solid lubricant is designed to address common issues associated with conventional liquid lubricants, including dripping, splattering and waste resulting from over-application.
By incorporating DURAST POM fine powder, the product aims to improve efficiency and cleanliness across a range of maintenance environments, according to Daicel in a statement.
The lubricant is manufactured using Maia’s proprietary Sol-Mid technology, which enables the product to be supplied in a stick-shaped format and moulded into customised forms according to customer requirements.
The formulation combines ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) with grease, and DURAST POM acts as an interlayer that helps maintain compatibility between the two components.
The stick format eliminates the risk of leakage typically associated with liquid lubricants while offering greater portability for maintenance personnel servicing office equipment and industrial machinery. The product can reduce the use of conventional maintenance oil by around 80 per cent in office equipment applications.
Daicel said it developed a proprietary manufacturing process for DURAST POM after conventional grinding methods proved unsuitable for producing uniform powders from general-purpose resins. The resulting material features a distinctive particle shape and a controlled, fine and sharp particle size distribution.
The company plans to commercialise the solution on a larger scale, targeting maintenance applications for major office equipment manufacturers as well as industrial sectors including machinery repair, bicycle maintenance and conveyor systems.
-- BERNAMA
UNSW TOPS AUSTRALIA IN 2027 QS WORLD UNIVERSITY RANKINGS
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) has been ranked Australia's top university for the first time in the 2027 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings, placing 19th globally and becoming the only Australian institution to feature in the world's top 20.
The ranking, compiled from an evaluation of 8,808 institutions worldwide, with 1,504 universities included in the published results. It was also the first university from New South Wales to claim the top national position in the rankings.
UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Attila Brungs, in a statement said the result reflected the university's commitment to education, research and societal impact.
He added that the recognition would create greater opportunities for students and staff while enhancing the institution's global influence and reach.
UNSW ranked first among 37 Australian universities for employment outcomes and sustainability, scoring 97.4 out of 100 and 98, respectively. It also placed third nationally for employer reputation and international research partnerships, achieving scores above 94 per cent in eight of the nine assessment categories.
The university has climbed 30 places since 2017 and has now remained within the global top 20 for four consecutive years.
Prof Brungs said the performance highlighted the strength of Australia's higher education sector and its contribution to talent development, innovation and national competitiveness.
The QS World University Rankings evaluate universities on their strengths and performance using several indicators across research and discovery, employability and outcomes, learning experience, global engagement and sustainability.
-- BERNAMA
The ranking, compiled from an evaluation of 8,808 institutions worldwide, with 1,504 universities included in the published results. It was also the first university from New South Wales to claim the top national position in the rankings.
UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Attila Brungs, in a statement said the result reflected the university's commitment to education, research and societal impact.
He added that the recognition would create greater opportunities for students and staff while enhancing the institution's global influence and reach.
UNSW ranked first among 37 Australian universities for employment outcomes and sustainability, scoring 97.4 out of 100 and 98, respectively. It also placed third nationally for employer reputation and international research partnerships, achieving scores above 94 per cent in eight of the nine assessment categories.
The university has climbed 30 places since 2017 and has now remained within the global top 20 for four consecutive years.
Prof Brungs said the performance highlighted the strength of Australia's higher education sector and its contribution to talent development, innovation and national competitiveness.
The QS World University Rankings evaluate universities on their strengths and performance using several indicators across research and discovery, employability and outcomes, learning experience, global engagement and sustainability.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, June 18, 2026
WINNER SKY TECHNOLOGY CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN PENANG
![]() |
1. Dato Seri Haji Amir Hamzah, Executive Chairman of Matrix
2. Mr. Muhammad Ghaddaffi, Director of MIDA Penang
3. Ms. Lam Oi Yan, Executive Director of Altronics
4. Mr. Lam Yin Kee, Chairman of Altronics Holdings Berhad
5. Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Y.A.B Chief Minister of Penang,
6. Mr. Eric Lam Chee Tai, Chief Executive Officer of Winner Sky Technology
7. Ms. Ivy Lam, Executive Director/Director of Altronics
8. Mr. Foong Che Leong, General Manager of Winner Sky Technology
9. Mr. So Kin Hung, General Manager of Altronics
PENANG, Malaysia, June 18 (Bernama) -- Winner Sky Technology Sdn. Bhd. officially opened its new 60,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Batu Kawan, Penang on 4 June 2026, marking a significant step in the company’s growth trajectory. The expansion — which triples the company’s production footprint and anchors a total investment commitment of RM70 million over five years — underscores Winner Sky Technology’s confidence in Malaysia as a long-term base for high-value electronics manufacturing. The company, which currently employs approximately 150 people, plans to grow its workforce to more than 450 over the same period.
The grand opening was officiated by YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, and attended by Mr. Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed, Director of MIDA Penang; Mr. Lam Yin Kee, Chairman of Alltronics Holdings Limited, Hong Kong; and Mr. Eric Lam Chee Tai, Chief Executive Officer of Winner Sky Technology Malaysia. The event brought together distinguished guests from government agencies, industry partners, customers, suppliers, and the local business community.
Established in 2019, Winner Sky Technology has grown from a modest operation into a trusted Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider, serving customers across industrial electronics, energy control systems, and the Internet-of-Things (IoTs). Headquartered in Hong Kong with manufacturing operations across China, Vietnam, and now Malaysia, the company’s decision to expand significantly in Penang reflects its long-term commitment to the country’s talent and industrial ecosystem.
The new facility is equipped with the latest Surface Mount Technology (SMT) production lines, integrated Smart Factory systems, and Industry 4.0 capabilities, significantly enhancing the company’s production capacity and positioning it to deliver high-quality, innovative electronic manufacturing solutions to customers worldwide.
YAB Chow Kon Yeow stated, “Winner Sky Technology’s commitment to expansion demonstrates confidence not only in the company’s own growth prospects, but also in Penang’s ability to support that growth over the long term. The Penang State Government, through InvestPenang and our federal partners, remains committed to facilitating investments, strengthening industry partnerships, and ensuring that Penang remains an attractive destination for both global and domestic investors.”
Welcoming the expansion, Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, said: “Winner Sky Technology’s decision to anchor a major expansion in Malaysia is a strong endorsement of what this country offers — a skilled workforce, a competitive industrial ecosystem, and a government that is firmly committed to enabling quality investment. This is precisely the kind of high-value, technologyintensive foreign investment (FI) that Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 is designed to attract and retain. Beyond the capital investment, what stands out here is the genuine commitment to local workforce development, supply chain integration, and technology transfer — the building blocks of sustainable industrial growth. MIDA will continue to work closely with investors like Winner Sky Technology to ensure Malaysia remains a preferred destination for advanced manufacturing.”
Speaking on the company’s vision for its Malaysian operations, CEO Mr. Eric Lam said: “Our commitment to this country is total. We want to hire Malaysian engineers, Malaysian technicians, Malaysian operators, and Malaysian managers. We believe the sustainable way to build a world-class manufacturing facility is to invest deeply in the local community, learn the culture, and create high-skill, high-value careers right here in Batu Kawan.
“Our investment does not stop at our factory doors. True partnership means building together. We are fully committed to growing alongside the local economy by actively sourcing from Malaysian vendors, component suppliers, and service providers. By integrating Penang’s robust local supply chain into our global network, we are not just creating a standalone factory — we are nurturing a thriving ecosystem where local businesses succeed alongside us.”
Mr. Foong Chee Leong, General Manager of Winner Sky Technology, expressed his appreciation to employees, customers, suppliers, and government agencies for their continued support.
“This facility represents more than an investment in equipment and infrastructure. It reflects our confidence in Malaysia’s talent, our commitment to manufacturing excellence, and our vision of building a sustainable, world-class EMS company. We are especially proud that our products are 100% made by Malaysians — supported by a dedicated workforce that includes experienced professionals and members of the local community. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to creating quality employment, developing local talent, and contributing to Malaysia’s manufacturing competitiveness.”
Winner Sky Technology expects the new facility to drive substantial business growth. Through increased production capacity, operational efficiency, and higher-value manufacturing services, the company projects a roughly threefold increase in revenue over the coming years.
The opening further strengthens Penang’s standing as a leading destination for advanced manufacturing and highlights the state’s continued attractiveness for hightechnology investment. The expansion aligns squarely with Malaysia’s ambitions under the NIMP 2030 to accelerate industrial digitalisation, build supply chain resilience, and promote high-value manufacturing as a cornerstone of sustainable economic growth.
About MIDA
MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.
About InvestPenang
InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for the promotion of investment. Its objectives are to develop and sustain Penang’s economy by enhancing and continuously supporting business activities in the State through foreign and local investments, including spawning viable new growth centers. To realise its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention), Global Business Services (GBS) Focus Group (promoting and developing digital economy), Penang Silicon Design @5km+ (establishing a unique and interconnected ecosystem for IC design and technology enterprises) and Penang ATE Campus (accelerating the co‑development, qualification, and scaling of Malaysian ATE solutions by enabling first-customer deployment). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn; WhatsApp Channel and TikTok.
About Winner Sky Technology
Established in 2019, Winner Sky Technology is an Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider with its headquarters in Hong Kong and manufacturing operations across China, Vietnam serving customers across industrial electronics, energy control systems, Internet-of-Things (IoTs), and industrial electronics industries.
SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Mr. Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar
Designation: Director, Electrical and Electronics Division, MIDA
Tel: +603-2267 6655
Email: mazlan@mida.gov.my
InvestPenang
Name: Elaine Cheah / Ong Yih Hwa
Tel: +604-646 8833
Email: elaine@investpenang.gov.my / yihhwa@investpenang.gov.my
Winner Sky Technology
Name: CL Foong
Tel: +6012-4946101
Email: clfoong@wst-my.com
Name: Caren Ong
Tel: +60 125506322
Email: carenong@wst-my.com
--BERNAMA
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
