AZTIQ PROMOTES THREE EXECUTIVES TO PARTNER

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- Aztiq, an investment company, has promoted David Olafsson, Danny Major and Eunsun Choi to Partner, recognising their significant contributions to the company's growth, investment activities and long-term value creation across the healthcare ecosystem.

The promotions reflect Aztiq’s continued commitment to building a strong, experienced and collaborative leadership team with deep sector expertise across healthcare, investment, corporate development, finance, mergers and acquisitions and legal execution.

Aztiq Founder and Chairman, Robert Wessman said in a statement that Olafsson, Major and Choi have each played an important role in the company’s development and in supporting its portfolio companies.

“Their promotions to Partner recognise not only their individual achievements but also the trust, judgement and dedication they bring to Aztiq and our partners and portfolio companies. They embody the entrepreneurial, hands-on and long-term approach that defines Aztiq,” he added.

As Partners, Olafsson, Major and Choi will continue to support Aztiq’s investment activities, portfolio company development and strategic initiatives to advance the firm’s healthcare-focused investment platform.

Aztiq focuses on working with purpose-driven pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies dedicated to improving the lives of people worldwide. It partners with companies to unlock sustainable, long-term value and create positive change for patients and the global healthcare ecosystem.

-- BERNAMA

Maybank Islamic Introduces Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i, Designed for Simplicity and Inclusivity

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- Maybank Islamic Berhad today announced the launch of the Maybank Islamic Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i, its new Shariah-compliant credit card that offers Malaysians a simple and inclusive financial solution, designed to support everyday financial needs.
The launch comes as more Malaysians seek practical and affordable financial solutions that are easy to understand and aligned with their needs and values. Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i reflects this shift by making access to credit more straightforward, predictable and accessible.

Drawing on the Bank’s position as Malaysia's largest credit card issuer, the Maybank Islamic Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i features non-compounding charges, no annual fee, and a fixed profit rate of 14% per annum. Together, these features empower card members to manage day-to-day expenses with greater certainty. Card members also enjoy access to Maybank’s wider cards ecosystem, including exclusive benefits and over 1,000 merchant privileges across the region.

Dato’ Sri Khairussaleh Ramli, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Maybank said, “Trust is the cornerstone of banking and earned through clarity and an unwavering focus on customers. Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i reflects the purposeful innovation we seek to champion – simple, values-driven solutions built around what customers truly need. As the pulse of everyday financial lives, Nadi is designed to broaden responsible access to credit in a way that is accessible, affordable and meaningful. We remain committed to shaping a future of banking that delivers sustainable impact for the communities we serve.”

Unlike prevailing tiered profit rate structures that may go up to 18% per annum, the Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i features a fixed profit rate of 14% per annum, providing customers with greater clarity on their payment obligations.

The name ‘Nadi’, which means ‘pulse’ in Malay, reflects the integral role Maybank plays in Malaysians’ daily financial lives.

“We believe financial products should be easy to understand and empower customers to make informed decisions. Nadi Mastercard Credit Card-i embodies our commitment to Humanising Financial Services by providing greater predictability and peace of mind in everyday financing. This card is designed to support responsible financial management by eliminating complexity and giving customers greater certainty over their financing costs,” said Mohamad Yasin Abdullah, Group Chief Executive Officer, Islamic Banking, and Chief Executive Officer, Maybank Islamic.

Customers may apply for the card via the MAE app, Maybank2u, and all Maybank branches nationwide in October 2026.

SOURCE: Malayan Banking Berhad (MAYBANK)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Maybank Group Corporate Affairs
Name: Izlyn Ramli
Tel: +60 19 200 0248
Name: Wan Nazdy
Tel: +60 12 351 7561
Name: Irwan
Tel: +60 19 278 7719
Email: corporateaffairs@maybank.com

--BERNAMA

CIMB advances financial inclusion with CIMB Lite-i credit card, expanding affordable credit access for Malaysians

Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Group

Credit card features include no annual fee, lower profit rate, non-compounding profit, lower cash advance rate and no-frills structure

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB” or “Bank”) today announced the upcoming launch of CIMB Lite-i (“Card”), a practical and affordable credit card designed to make credit services more accessible to consumers to manage daily expenses and short-term cash flow needs.

Set to be available by October 2026, the Card is tailored for consumers seeking simple, affordable credit facility without frills. Key features include a lower profit rate, non-compounding profit, no annual fee, and cost-effective financing options at lower charges, making credit more accessible and manageable for a wider segment of society.

Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer, CIMB Group said, “As a testament to our purpose of advancing customers and society, CIMB is committed to improving financial access and helping Malaysians build greater financial resilience. The CIMB Lite-i credit card addresses a growing gap in the market for practical, low-cost credit solutions. The new credit card exemplifies our continued commitment to better support Malaysians in managing their day-to-day financial needs. This card also builds on CIMB’s broader efforts to support Malaysians through customer-focused initiatives namely, the SME Stabilisation Relief Facility, First Car Solution, Salary Account with Takaful protection, and the fee waiver for interbank withdrawals.”

The Card offers no annual fee, a lower profit rate of 14% per annum across all tiers compared to the industry norm, as well as a similar reduced cash advance profit rate. Similar to all CIMB Islamic Tawarruq-based credit cards, the Lite-i credit card adopts a non-compounding profit approach. Like other credit cards, customers will not be charged the profit rate as long as they pay their full outstanding balance by the due date. It also comes with a practical credit limit tailored to the cardholders, to support everyday spending needs while encouraging prudent credit usage.

Haniz Nazlan, Chief Executive Officer, Group Consumer Banking, CIMB said, “There is a clear segment of customers who do not need premium rewards or lifestyle perks; they simply want a reliable and affordable credit facility to manage daily expenses, bridge short-term cash flow needs, and build a healthy credit profile. The CIMB Lite-i credit card is designed precisely for this segment. At CIMB, we believe access to financial tools should not be a privilege reserved for a select few. Financial inclusion means ensuring more Malaysians, especially those beginning their financial journey, are afforded access to safe, affordable and practical financial solutions that help them build stability and resilience over time.”

The CIMB Lite-i credit card reflects the Bank’s “Moving You Forward” brand promise - helping customers and communities build financial stability and participate more confidently in the 2 economy. The launch of the Card underscores CIMB’s broader ambition to empower individuals and support businesses with accessible and purposeful financial tools. For more information, please visit www.cimb.com.my/creditcard.

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: Tammy Toh / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: tammy.toh@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com

--BERNAMA

JCAI ADVISES ON MESSER’S ACQUISITION OF WKS GROUP

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 (Bernama) -- Japan Corporate Advisory Institute Ltd (JCAI), a Tokyo-headquartered cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory firm, has advised on the acquisition of WKS Group by Messer.

Messer, the world’s largest privately held specialist for industrial, medical, electronic and speciality gases, has acquired Singapore-based WKS Group, which operates across Singapore and southern Malaysia. Messer reported consolidated sales of approximately 4.5 billion euros for its 2025 financial year. (1 Euro = RM4.65)

According to JCAI in a statement, the acquisition expands Messer’s operating footprint in Southeast Asia and strengthens access to key industrial clusters across the region, with transaction terms undisclosed.

“As global investors increasingly seek opportunities across Asia, access to reliable market intelligence and the right counterparties has become a key driver of successful M&A outcomes.

“JCAI works to improve transparency in APAC’s private markets by connecting business owners with strategic investors through a structured cross-border M&A process,” said JCAI Managing Partner, Olimjon Sadinov.

Meanwhile, WKS Group shareholder, Wong Koh Hoi said the company appreciates JCAI’s professionalism and dedication throughout the transaction, noting that its expertise was instrumental in achieving a successful outcome.

Founded in Singapore in 1977, WKS Group comprises six companies and employs about 195 people across Singapore and southern Malaysia.

Headquartered in Tokyo, JCAI advises business owners, corporates and investors on strategic M&A transactions across APAC.

-- BERNAMA

Allianz General makes home protection smarter with multi-year coverage and exclusive rewards

 

Sean Wang, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz General

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad (Allianz General) continues its 25th anniversary celebration by making home protection smarter and more rewarding with the Smart Home Cover Multi-Year Plan, offering three years of uninterrupted coverage and a complimentary 2-in-1 Hotpot & Barbecue Grill Cooker for eligible policies starting 1 July 2026.

Allianz General’s Smart Home Cover is a comprehensive home insurance solution designed to provide customers with smarter, more flexible home coverage tailored to their needs, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners, tenants and landlords.

With the Multi-Year Plan, customers can enjoy three years of uninterrupted protection with a single premium payment, eliminating the hassle of annual renewals while benefitting from lower premiums.

“Allianz General is committed to delivering value and convenience to our customers. With this campaign, the Smart Home Cover Multi-Year Plan not only ensures long-term protection for your home but also rewards our customers with an exclusive gift,” said Sean Wang, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz General.

With the increasing risks of natural disasters and unforeseen events, safeguarding one’s home is no longer optional, but a high priority. Allianz General’s Smart Home Cover goes beyond basic home insurance, offering a comprehensive, all-in-one solution that includes protection for home structure, contents and even additional benefits such as Mortgage Loan Installment Protection, HomeFix and Landlord Insurance.

Customers who opt for the Multi-Year Plan will not only enjoy lower premiums and uninterrupted three-year protection, but also free reinstatement for the first two valid losses paid under the HouseOwner or HouseHolder components.

To redeem the complimentary exclusive gift, customers can follow the steps below:

1. Contact an authorised Allianz General agent to purchase a Smart Home Cover Multi-Year policy with minimum gross premium of RM1,000. Only new policies are eligible; customers who previously held an annual Smart Home Cover policy and subsequently converted to the Multi-Year option during renewal will also be eligible for the complimentary gift.

2. Provide a valid mobile number and email address to the servicing agent during policy issuance.

3. Receive one (1) complimentary 2-in-1 Hotpot & Barbeque Grill Cooker within 30 working days from the policy issuance date, upon confirmation of delivery address via email.

The campaign will run from 1 July 2026 until the total number of cookers given away reaches 1,000 units. The giveaway is on a first-come first-served basis.

For more information on Allianz General’s Smart Home Cover Multi-Year Plan and this campaign, please visit: https://www.allianz.com.my/personal/home-motor-and-travel/home/smart-home-cover.html

SOURCE: Allianz Malaysia Berhad ​

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Shamala Gopalan
Group Head
Corporate Communications Department
Allianz Malaysia Berhad
Tel: 016.285.0685
Email: shamala.gopalan@allianz.com.my

Name: Gary Mark Nagan
Manager
Corporate Communications Department
Allianz Malaysia Berhad
Tel: 012.367.1450
Email: gary.nagan@allianz.com.my

--BERNAMA

HEILONGJIANG TOURISM CONFERENCE TO OPEN IN JIXI CITY ON JULY 8 – 9

The autumn landscape of the Xingkai Lake embankment in Mishan, Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province (drone photo)

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- The eighth Tourism Industry Development Conference in Heilongjiang Province will open in Jixi City from July 8 to 9, under the theme "Integration, Innovation, and Opportunity".

Centred on the theme and guided by principles of simplicity, safety and excellence, the conference aims to build platforms for cultural-tourism exchange and cooperation, innovative applications, and consumption upgrading.

It will showcase Heilongjiang’s ecological beauty, industrial heritage, culinary offerings, and openness, further unlocking the potential of cultural and tourism consumption, according to a statement.

During the conference, Jixi City will roll out a series of curated travel itineraries built around three themes, namely "Ignite the Games, Rock the Lakes", "Drive the Border, Embrace Wellness", and "Explore the Countryside, Learn Through Play".

A range of visitor-friendly incentives will also be introduced, including dining discounts, guaranteed accommodation packages, free admission to scenic spots, and shopping promotions, aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience.

The Department of Culture and Tourism of Heilongjiang Province Deputy Director, Jiang Xingcheng said this year's conference features three highlights.

First, driven by integration, it seeks to build a new landscape for all-for-one tourism by promoting deeper links between culture and tourism with industry, agriculture, commerce and sports, including the development of a signature travel IP linked to sporting events.

Second, driven by innovation, the event will leverage digital and intelligent technologies. A dedicated smart culture and tourism exhibition zone will feature applications such as AI-powered tourism services, metaverse immersive experiences, and digital intangible cultural heritage displays.

Third, as a platform for cooperation, the conference will strengthen international engagement through the Belt and Road Initiative, bringing together government and business representatives from 13 countries and regions and expanding Heilongjiang’s global cultural and tourism partnerships.

-- BERNAMA

AZALEA VISION SECURES EIC ACCELERATOR FUNDING TO ADVANCE SMART CONTACT LENS PLATFORM

Azalea Vision Co-founder and CTO Andrés Vásquez Quintero undergoing an on-eye evaluation of the ALMA smart contact lens.

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- Azalea Vision, a Belgian healthtech company, announced it has been selected for the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator, the European Union’s (EU) flagship programme for breakthrough, market-creating deep tech.

As the only Belgian company selected in this round, Azalea Vision will receive up to 7.5 million euros, including a non-dilutive 2.5 million euros grant and a planned five million euros equity investment from the EIC Fund, to advance its medical-grade smart contact lens platform into clinical development. (1 Euro = RM4.64)

“This is one of the toughest funding programmes in the world to win, and it validates everything we have been building, our technology, our vision, and the size of the market in front of us.

“Our technical validation is nearly complete, and the core platform works. This award gives us the resources to prove it clinically and to do it from Europe. We intend to move fast,” said Azalea Vision co-founder and chief technology officer, Andrés Vasquez Quintero in a statement.

The EIC Accelerator, part of the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, supports the start-ups judged most likely to create or disrupt global markets, and fewer than five per cent of applicants make it through its expert and jury reviews.

The EIC Fund's equity investment alongside the grant signals confidence in a company's technology, vision and market while reducing risk for private co-investors. Azalea Vision ranked among the highest-scoring applicants in its cohort and has begun the funded programme.

The funding will support clinical development alongside the final engineering work needed to bring the platform to patients.

With core platform functionality established and technical validation nearing completion, the EIC award accelerates the transition from proven technology to a certified medical product.

Following the EIC endorsement, Azalea Vision has begun discussions with strategic and financial investors across Europe and the United States to co-invest alongside the EIC Fund in its upcoming financing round.

-- BERNAMA