KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Geespace, a Chinese commercial aerospace company, has announced the completion of the fourth orbital deployment of GEESATCOM, known as the Geely Constellation, launching 11 satellites from waters off Rizhao, Shandong Province, aboard a single rocket.
According to a statement, the constellation has grown from 30 to 41 satellites in a 600-kilometre orbit and is expected to reach 64 satellites within two months, enabling seamless real-time global data coverage, excluding the polars.
The GEESATCOM, which is independently developed and operated by Geespace, enables satellite Internet of Things (IoT) testing and inter-satellite communications for applications such as emergency communications, transportation and logistics, public infrastructure, and animal husbandry.
Leveraging a global footprint and open partnership model, Geespace has established collaborations with telecom operators in over 20 countries, particularly in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and achieved 99.15 per cent communication success and 99.97 per cent network availability in POC testing.
In Malaysia, the joint venture ADISB, with local telecom operator ALTEL, is driving localised GEESATCOM services for the maritime, agriculture, and transportation sectors, as well as the energy sector.
As constellation deployment accelerates, Geespace will work with global ecosystem partners to drive the large-scale commercial adoption of low-Earth orbit satellite IoT communication technologies worldwide.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, August 15, 2025
Johor Plantations Group Reports 51% Profit Growth in 1H2025 on Higher Sales and Stronger External Crop Processing
Disciplined upstream practices and expanded sourcing drive robust half-year performance
JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Johor Plantations Group Berhad (JPG) recorded a 51% year-on-year (YoY) increase in profit after tax (PAT) for the first half of 2025 (1H2025), reaching RM150.64 million. Revenue in 1H2025 saw a 12.6% increase to RM738.72 million, from same period last year (1H2024). While production volumes were lower YoY, the Group’s performance was supported by higher selling prices for both crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernel (PK), alongside stronger outside crop purchase (OCP) that helped sustain throughput and strengthen profitability.
Following from this strong performance, the Board has declared a second interim dividend of 1.25 sen per share for the quarter, reflecting an EPS of 3.01 sen, rewarding its shareholders with a total dividend payout of RM31.25 million.
For 2Q2025, the Group posted revenue of RM398.29 million, up 10.4% from RM360.91 million in corresponding quarter last year (2Q2024). PAT increased by 50% to RM75.37 million, compared to RM50.26 million in 2Q2024.
· CPO Sales: Revenue from CPO increased 4.8% YoY in 2Q2025 to RM323.39 million, with delivery volumes up 1.9% to 74,667 MT.
· PK Sales: PK revenue surged 46.1% YoY to RM73.07 million, supported by a 2.1% rise in delivery volumes to 19,546 MT.
· OCP: JPG saw an 11.9% increase YoY in external crop purchases, reflecting the effectiveness of its strategy to boost OCP.
Commenting on the results, Mohd Faris Adli Shukery, Managing Director of Johor Plantations Group said: “We are pleased to report another strong performance, driven by disciplined efforts across our upstream segment and continued progress in expanding external crop sourcing.
At the same time, we continue to enhance operational efficiency, optimise our inventory, and manage costs proactively, all guided by our steadfast commitment to sustainability, which remains at the heart of our long-term value creation.
Looking ahead, while we remain mindful of potential demand-supply imbalances in the CPO market, we are confident in our ability to navigate these conditions. Our focus remains on optimising price realisation, sustaining production growth, exercising rigorous cost control, increasing processing volume and advancing our downstream expansion.”
As the Group moves into the second half of the year, JPG expects seasonal production growth and remains prudently optimistic in navigating market dynamics. With this, the Group is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory and deliver long-term shareholder value.
In addition, JPG announced a key leadership transition with the upcoming retirement of its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Aziah Ahmad, as of 1 September 2025. Aziah has been a vital member of the Kulim (Malaysia) Berhad and Johor Corporation (JCorp) group since 2014, holding senior finance leadership roles. She played a pivotal role in strengthening JPG’s financial operations ahead of its IPO and in delivering the plantation industry’s first Sustainability-Linked Sukuk in 2024.
Zain Azrai Zainal Abidin will succeed her as CFO as of 1 September 2025. A Certified Public Accountant with over 27 years of experience, including more than a decade as CFO in several leading companies, Zain brings deep expertise in finance, strategy, treasury, investment management, stakeholder engagement, and audit. He joined the company in June as the Deputy CFO and has been working together with Aziah to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
About Johor Plantations Group Berhad
Established in 1978, Johor Plantations Group Berhad (JPG) is a subsidiary of Kulim (Malaysia) Berhad, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Johor Corporation (JCorp). JPG is principally involved in the cultivation of oil palm and the production of crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernels. Its core operations focus on owning, managing, and harvesting fresh fruit bunches (FFB) from estates located primarily in the state of Johor. JPG’s subsidiaries support its upstream activities through the production of biomethane, sales of oil palm seedlings, trading of palm oil products, and the supply of agricultural machinery, plantation-related products, training, and safety services.JPG was listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 9 July 2024. All of JPG’s plantations are 100% certified under the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) standards. The company is also developing Integrated Sustainable Palm Oil Complex (iSPOC), a centralised processing and logistics hub to improve operational efficiency, traceability, and future downstream readiness. JPG has outlined a ten-year strategic roadmap focused on optimising upstream performance, expanding third-party crop sourcing, and supporting long-term sustainable growth.
For more information, please visit www.johorplantations.com
SOURCE: Johor Plantations Group Berhad
FOR MORE INFORMATION & RSVP, PLEASE CONTACT:
Johor Plantations Group Berhad
Name: Dalilah Ibrahim
Head, Corporate Communications
Tel: 012-328 1727
Email: dalilah@johorplantations.com
--BERNAMA
JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Johor Plantations Group Berhad (JPG) recorded a 51% year-on-year (YoY) increase in profit after tax (PAT) for the first half of 2025 (1H2025), reaching RM150.64 million. Revenue in 1H2025 saw a 12.6% increase to RM738.72 million, from same period last year (1H2024). While production volumes were lower YoY, the Group’s performance was supported by higher selling prices for both crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernel (PK), alongside stronger outside crop purchase (OCP) that helped sustain throughput and strengthen profitability.
Following from this strong performance, the Board has declared a second interim dividend of 1.25 sen per share for the quarter, reflecting an EPS of 3.01 sen, rewarding its shareholders with a total dividend payout of RM31.25 million.
For 2Q2025, the Group posted revenue of RM398.29 million, up 10.4% from RM360.91 million in corresponding quarter last year (2Q2024). PAT increased by 50% to RM75.37 million, compared to RM50.26 million in 2Q2024.
· CPO Sales: Revenue from CPO increased 4.8% YoY in 2Q2025 to RM323.39 million, with delivery volumes up 1.9% to 74,667 MT.
· PK Sales: PK revenue surged 46.1% YoY to RM73.07 million, supported by a 2.1% rise in delivery volumes to 19,546 MT.
· OCP: JPG saw an 11.9% increase YoY in external crop purchases, reflecting the effectiveness of its strategy to boost OCP.
Commenting on the results, Mohd Faris Adli Shukery, Managing Director of Johor Plantations Group said: “We are pleased to report another strong performance, driven by disciplined efforts across our upstream segment and continued progress in expanding external crop sourcing.
At the same time, we continue to enhance operational efficiency, optimise our inventory, and manage costs proactively, all guided by our steadfast commitment to sustainability, which remains at the heart of our long-term value creation.
Looking ahead, while we remain mindful of potential demand-supply imbalances in the CPO market, we are confident in our ability to navigate these conditions. Our focus remains on optimising price realisation, sustaining production growth, exercising rigorous cost control, increasing processing volume and advancing our downstream expansion.”
As the Group moves into the second half of the year, JPG expects seasonal production growth and remains prudently optimistic in navigating market dynamics. With this, the Group is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory and deliver long-term shareholder value.
In addition, JPG announced a key leadership transition with the upcoming retirement of its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Aziah Ahmad, as of 1 September 2025. Aziah has been a vital member of the Kulim (Malaysia) Berhad and Johor Corporation (JCorp) group since 2014, holding senior finance leadership roles. She played a pivotal role in strengthening JPG’s financial operations ahead of its IPO and in delivering the plantation industry’s first Sustainability-Linked Sukuk in 2024.
Zain Azrai Zainal Abidin will succeed her as CFO as of 1 September 2025. A Certified Public Accountant with over 27 years of experience, including more than a decade as CFO in several leading companies, Zain brings deep expertise in finance, strategy, treasury, investment management, stakeholder engagement, and audit. He joined the company in June as the Deputy CFO and has been working together with Aziah to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
About Johor Plantations Group Berhad
Established in 1978, Johor Plantations Group Berhad (JPG) is a subsidiary of Kulim (Malaysia) Berhad, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Johor Corporation (JCorp). JPG is principally involved in the cultivation of oil palm and the production of crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernels. Its core operations focus on owning, managing, and harvesting fresh fruit bunches (FFB) from estates located primarily in the state of Johor. JPG’s subsidiaries support its upstream activities through the production of biomethane, sales of oil palm seedlings, trading of palm oil products, and the supply of agricultural machinery, plantation-related products, training, and safety services.JPG was listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 9 July 2024. All of JPG’s plantations are 100% certified under the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) standards. The company is also developing Integrated Sustainable Palm Oil Complex (iSPOC), a centralised processing and logistics hub to improve operational efficiency, traceability, and future downstream readiness. JPG has outlined a ten-year strategic roadmap focused on optimising upstream performance, expanding third-party crop sourcing, and supporting long-term sustainable growth.
For more information, please visit www.johorplantations.com
SOURCE: Johor Plantations Group Berhad
FOR MORE INFORMATION & RSVP, PLEASE CONTACT:
Johor Plantations Group Berhad
Name: Dalilah Ibrahim
Head, Corporate Communications
Tel: 012-328 1727
Email: dalilah@johorplantations.com
--BERNAMA
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Picus Security Finds 46% of Enterprise Passwords Vulnerable to Cracking — 2X Increase From 2024
More Than 160 Million Attack Simulations in Live Production Environments Reveal Valid Credentials Are Easy to Steal and Nearly Impossible to Stop
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Picus Security, the leading security validation company, today released the Blue Report™ 2025, based on more than 160 million real-world attack simulations in live production environments. Now in its third year, the report provides a data-driven assessment of how well security controls perform against today’s threats — and this year’s findings are the most concerning to date.
While cyberattacks grow in both volume and sophistication, defensive effectiveness is declining. This year’s data paints a particularly grim picture: In 46% of environments, at least one password hash was successfully cracked, and data exfiltration attempts were only stopped 3% of the time, down from 9% in 2024. Combined, these trends show how quickly a single compromised credential can open the door to lateral movement and large-scale data theft. With infostealer malware tripling in prevalence and attackers increasingly bypassing defenses using valid logins, organizations face escalating risk from persistent and nearly invisible threats.
“We must operate under the assumption that adversaries already have access,” said Dr. Süleyman Ozarslan, co-founder of Picus Security and VP of Picus Labs. “An ‘assume breach’ mindset pushes organizations to detect the misuse of valid credentials faster, contain threats quickly, and limit lateral movement — which requires continuous validation of identity controls and stronger behavioral detection.”
Key Findings:
· Passwords cracked in nearly half of environments: In 46% of tested environments, at least one password hash was cracked — up from 25% in 2024 — highlighting continued reliance on weak or outdated password policies.
· Stolen credentials are practically unstoppable: Attacks using valid credentials were successful 98% of the time, making techniques like Valid Accounts (MITRE ATT&CK T1078) one of the most reliable ways to bypass defenses undetected.
· Data exfiltration prevention is near zero: Only 3% of data theft attempts were blocked — down 3x from 2024 — even as ransomware operators and infostealers ramped up double-extortion attacks.
· Ransomware remains a top concern. BlackByte continues to be the hardest strain to prevent, with a prevention effectiveness rate of just 26%. BabLock and Maori followed at 34% and 41%, respectively.
· Early detection is a significant blind spot. Discovery techniques like System Network Configuration Discovery and Process Discovery scored below 12% in prevention effectiveness, exposing gaps in detection efforts.
The Blue Report 2025 also reveals that prevention effectiveness declined from 69% in 2024 to 62% in 2025, reversing last year’s gains. And while logging coverage held steady at 54%, only 14% of attacks generated alerts, meaning that most malicious activity still goes unnoticed. Failures in detection rule configuration, logging gaps, and system integration continue to undermine visibility across security operations. The decline highlights how quickly defenses can degrade without continuous oversight and validation of security controls.
Methodology
The Blue Report offers empirical evidence of how well security controls perform in real-world conditions. Findings are based on millions of simulated attacks executed by Picus Security customers from January to June 2025. The simulations were conducted safely in live production environments using Picus’ Security Validation Platform and analyzed by the Picus Labs and Picus Data Science teams. The report also includes ecosystem and industry-specific findings and recommendations that can help companies reduce exposure and improve threat readiness.
To read the full findings and recommendations, download the Blue Report 2025.
About Picus Security
Picus Security, the leading security validation company, gives organizations a clear picture of their cyber risk based on business context. Picus transforms security practices by correlating, prioritizing and validating exposures across siloed findings so teams can focus on critical gaps and high-impact fixes. With Picus, security teams can quickly take action with one-click mitigations to stop more threats with less effort. Offering Adversarial Exposure Validation with Breach and Attack Simulation and Automated Penetration Testing, working together for greater outcomes, Picus delivers award-winning, threat-centric technology that allows teams to pinpoint fixes worth pursuing.
Follow Picus Security on X and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Jennifer Tanner
Look Left Marketing
picus@lookleftmarketing.com
Images accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3399fa33-7e80-494c-8d70-150c14da6698
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/387b8fcd-aac8-4593-be9d-79985703484a
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a94c5fa9-32ce-499c-b863-3a0e8497a6ea
SOURCE: Picus Security
--BERNAMA
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Picus Security, the leading security validation company, today released the Blue Report™ 2025, based on more than 160 million real-world attack simulations in live production environments. Now in its third year, the report provides a data-driven assessment of how well security controls perform against today’s threats — and this year’s findings are the most concerning to date.
While cyberattacks grow in both volume and sophistication, defensive effectiveness is declining. This year’s data paints a particularly grim picture: In 46% of environments, at least one password hash was successfully cracked, and data exfiltration attempts were only stopped 3% of the time, down from 9% in 2024. Combined, these trends show how quickly a single compromised credential can open the door to lateral movement and large-scale data theft. With infostealer malware tripling in prevalence and attackers increasingly bypassing defenses using valid logins, organizations face escalating risk from persistent and nearly invisible threats.
“We must operate under the assumption that adversaries already have access,” said Dr. Süleyman Ozarslan, co-founder of Picus Security and VP of Picus Labs. “An ‘assume breach’ mindset pushes organizations to detect the misuse of valid credentials faster, contain threats quickly, and limit lateral movement — which requires continuous validation of identity controls and stronger behavioral detection.”
Key Findings:
· Passwords cracked in nearly half of environments: In 46% of tested environments, at least one password hash was cracked — up from 25% in 2024 — highlighting continued reliance on weak or outdated password policies.
· Stolen credentials are practically unstoppable: Attacks using valid credentials were successful 98% of the time, making techniques like Valid Accounts (MITRE ATT&CK T1078) one of the most reliable ways to bypass defenses undetected.
· Data exfiltration prevention is near zero: Only 3% of data theft attempts were blocked — down 3x from 2024 — even as ransomware operators and infostealers ramped up double-extortion attacks.
· Ransomware remains a top concern. BlackByte continues to be the hardest strain to prevent, with a prevention effectiveness rate of just 26%. BabLock and Maori followed at 34% and 41%, respectively.
· Early detection is a significant blind spot. Discovery techniques like System Network Configuration Discovery and Process Discovery scored below 12% in prevention effectiveness, exposing gaps in detection efforts.
The Blue Report 2025 also reveals that prevention effectiveness declined from 69% in 2024 to 62% in 2025, reversing last year’s gains. And while logging coverage held steady at 54%, only 14% of attacks generated alerts, meaning that most malicious activity still goes unnoticed. Failures in detection rule configuration, logging gaps, and system integration continue to undermine visibility across security operations. The decline highlights how quickly defenses can degrade without continuous oversight and validation of security controls.
Methodology
The Blue Report offers empirical evidence of how well security controls perform in real-world conditions. Findings are based on millions of simulated attacks executed by Picus Security customers from January to June 2025. The simulations were conducted safely in live production environments using Picus’ Security Validation Platform and analyzed by the Picus Labs and Picus Data Science teams. The report also includes ecosystem and industry-specific findings and recommendations that can help companies reduce exposure and improve threat readiness.
To read the full findings and recommendations, download the Blue Report 2025.
About Picus Security
Picus Security, the leading security validation company, gives organizations a clear picture of their cyber risk based on business context. Picus transforms security practices by correlating, prioritizing and validating exposures across siloed findings so teams can focus on critical gaps and high-impact fixes. With Picus, security teams can quickly take action with one-click mitigations to stop more threats with less effort. Offering Adversarial Exposure Validation with Breach and Attack Simulation and Automated Penetration Testing, working together for greater outcomes, Picus delivers award-winning, threat-centric technology that allows teams to pinpoint fixes worth pursuing.
Follow Picus Security on X and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Jennifer Tanner
Look Left Marketing
picus@lookleftmarketing.com
Images accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3399fa33-7e80-494c-8d70-150c14da6698
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/387b8fcd-aac8-4593-be9d-79985703484a
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a94c5fa9-32ce-499c-b863-3a0e8497a6ea
SOURCE: Picus Security
--BERNAMA
PETRONAS AND DOSH MARK REGULATORY MILESTONE WITH LAUNCH OF SSI REGULATIONS 2025
 |
| (Middle) Ir. Haji Mohd Hatta Zakaria, Director General of the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), together with Zamri Japar, Vice President of Group Health, Safety, Security and Environment, PETRONAS, and Bahrudin Mamat, Deputy Director General of Occupational Safety, DOSH, on stage during the launch of the Special Scheme of Inspection (SSI) Regulations 2025. |
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 12 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS, in collaboration with the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), has launched the Occupational Safety and Health (Special Scheme of Inspection) Regulations 2025 or SSI Regulations 2025, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia’s occupational safety and health landscape. Gazetted on 20 January 2025, the SSI Regulations 2025 aims to elevate compliance standards and promote holistic asset integrity practices. By embedding risk-based inspection into the core of asset management practices, the regulations reinforce PETRONAS’ commitment to ESG principles, particularly in governance, health and safety.
Replacing the Factories and Machinery (Special Scheme of Inspection) (Risk-Based Inspection) Regulations 2014, the SSI Regulations 2025 adopts a more progressive approach in managing plant safety through systematic and risk-based inspection for certification of fitness.
“This launch marks more than the gazettement of a new regulation—it’s a commitment to collaboration, innovation and proactive enforcement. The partnership between DOSH and PETRONAS is a strong example of how regulators and industry players grounded in shared values of safety, sustainability and innovation, can align towards a common vision that spurs progress for the nation and beyond,” said DOSH Director General Ir. Haji Mohd Hatta Zakaria at the launch.
PETRONAS Vice President of Group Health, Safety, Security & Environment, Zamri Japar, said the SSI Regulations 2025 marks a paradigm shift in how safety and asset management are approached.
“The SSI Regulations 2025 represent a strategic shift from a traditionally reactive approach to one that is proactive and forward-looking. We are moving beyond conventional technical risk management toward a comprehensive, system-wide framework that strengthens safety, drives operational and technical excellence, and enhances long-term resilience, supporting both long-term resilience and our broader ESG commitments,” he said.
The SSI Regulations 2025 delivers substantial operational advantages by enhancing plant efficiency, minimising downtime and strengthening the culture of ownership and accountability in maintaining safe and reliable operations.
DOSH and PETRONAS are also working closely to ensure that the new regulations are clearly communicated and well understood across the relevant industries, reflecting a shared commitment to continuous improvement and self-regulation.
Issued by
Media Communications
Group Strategic Relations & Communications
PETRONAS
SOURCE: PETRONAS
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Estee Aina Huslan
Tel: 012-2283377
Email: esteeaina.huslan@petronas.com
--BERNAMA
QE 5.0 TO DRIVE MODERN TECHNOLOGY UNDER RMK-13
 |
| MPC proudly celebrates the commitment and achievements of its partners with the official presentation of recognition certificates, marking another milestone in driving productivity and excellence. |
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 12 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) today introduced Quality Environment 5.0 (QE 5.0), an industry-designed, MPC-endorsed programme aimed at helping firms achieve measurable productivity gains in line with the RMK-13 target of 3.6% annual labour productivity growth.
This program was designed by MPC through collaboration with the management consulting team led by Mr. KT Ng.
Currently this program certifies 200 companies under QE 5.0, with early adopters already reporting stronger efficiency, employee engagement, and performance outcomes.
“QE 5.0 embeds a culture of continuous improvement to help firms achieve real cost savings and productivity gains,” said Professional Services Productivity Nexus champion, Ts. Choo Kok Beng.
“I see QE 5.0 as more than a programme. It is a movement to transform how Malaysian companies work, think, and grow. My vision is for every firm to see productivity not as a target, but as a culture that drives lasting success,” said KT Ng.
MPC Director General Datuk Zahid Ismail stressed that industry-led programmes like QE 5.0 are vital to meeting national productivity targets and positioning Malaysia among the top 12 most competitive nations by 2030.
Key Features of QE 5.0:
· Structured frameworks for workplace optimisation.
· Customised consulting support.
· Measurable productivity outcomes via leading and lagging indicators.
· Capacity-building for sustained improvement.
About Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC)
MPC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). It drives national productivity holistically at the national, sectoral, and enterprise levels through three main thrusts: developing future talent, driving digitization and innovation, and building a robust ecosystem. It collaborates strategically with the private and public sectors by emphasising productivity as a key agenda to boost productivity growth and national competitiveness, ultimately leading to shared well-being and prosperity.
SOURCE: Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Nik Haneez Amizan bt Nik Rosdi
Tel: 019-7181804
Email: nikhaneez@mpc.gov.my
Name: Zaki Jaafar
Tel: 012-269 4835
Email: zeck@mpc.gov.my
--BERNAMA
VIVAX-METROTECH'S STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY CREATES 175 TECH JOBS IN PENANG
 |
| Grand Opening Group Photo |
PENANG, Malaysia, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- Vivax-Metrotech Corporation (VXMT), a global leader in advanced utility locating and inspection technologies, has announced the establishment of a new manufacturing facility in Penang. The investment, valued at RM48 million will create 175 high-skilled jobs and enhance the company’s production capacity to support accelerating global demand.
The new facility features 16 assembly production lines and specialised clean room operations. This technological infrastructure enables the company to manufacture a range of precision technologies used in telecommunications, water, gas, and electrical utilities. This expansion strengthens Vivax-Metrotech’s global supply chain while reinforcing its presence in Southeast Asia.
"This investment by Vivax-Metrotech Corporation comes at the perfect time as Malaysia strengthens its high-tech manufacturing capabilities," says Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim bin Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). "Their commitment aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan, supporting the goals of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. Beyond the RM48 million investment, what excites us most is how Vivax-Metrotech will create 175 quality jobs for Malaysians while helping build our advanced electronics ecosystem. MIDA will continue to facilitate Vivax-Metrotech's growth in Malaysia, ensuring they have the support needed to expand their operations and contribute to our industrial development."
Christian Stolz, CEO and Chairman of Vivax-Metrotech Corporation, said, “Malaysia’s proven track record in attracting leading high-technology companies combined with its forward-looking talent pool, exceptional commitment to quality and a strategic location made it a well-suited choice for expanding our manufacturing operations in South-East Asia.”
Mark Drew, President of Vivax-Metrotech Corporation, added, “Expanding manufacturing plays a crucial role in supporting our sales growth and strengthens our global supply chain resilience.”
Liming Zhang, General Manager of Vivax-Metrotech Shanghai Factory, noted, “Our priority is the ensure the Malaysian site operates seamlessly alongside our existing regional operations. With shared expertise, aligned processes and a strong foundation in precision manufacturing, this expansion reinforces our ability to deliver consistently and operate with the reliability our customers expect.”
This investment represents a key milestone in Vivax-Metrotech Corporation’s international growth strategy. With its second manufacturing facility now operational in Malaysia, the company is well-positioned to meet rising global demand while contributing meaningfully to Malaysia’s vision of becoming a high-value, innovation- driven industrial economy.
Refer this link for contact details and enquiries: https://tinyurl.com/3u8kvfbb
SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Mr. Mazlan Mokhtar
Director
Electrical and Electronics Division
Tel: +603-2267 6655
Email: mazlan@mida.gov.my
Vivax-Metrotech Corporation
Name: Mark Drew
President of Vivax-Metrotech
Email: press@vxmt.com
--BERNAMA
Monday, August 11, 2025
SME BANK RECORDS STELLAR 1H 2025 PROGRESS, EMPOWERING 5,735 ENTREPRENEURS WITH A 158% YEAR ON YEAR GROWTH
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia (“SME Bank”), a subsidiary of Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (“BPMB”), today announced its beyond financing developmental achievements for the first half of 2025 (“1H 2025”). This strong performance reflects SME Bank’s continued alignment with Bank Negara Malaysia’s (“BNM”) Performance Measurement Framework (“PMF”) and the Government’s MADANI economic framework, reinforcing the Bank’s position as one of the nation’s leading Development Financial Institutions (“DFIs”) mandated to empower the entire SME ecosystem.
Delivering High-Impact Beyond Financing & Capacity Building Initiatives
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting President and Chief Executive Officer of SME Bank said, “Reaffirming SME Bank’s mandate to creating broader developmental impact, we have successfully empowered 5,735 entrepreneurs in the 1H 2025 with the support of our dedicated capacity building and training arm, the Centre for Entrepreneur Development and Research (“CEDAR”) as the lead implementer. This reflects a remarkable increase of 158% compared to 2,225 entrepreneurs recorded during the same period in 2024.”
“Among the beyond financing programmes entrusted to SME Bank is the Maju Usahawan MADANI programme, which was introduced to strengthen the MSME ecosystem through targeted capacity-building. Spanning from January 2025 to March 2026, the programme aims to assist 3,000 micro entrepreneurs. As of June 2025, a total of 1,632 entrepreneurs have benefited from this initiative, including MSMEs from the Bumiputera community, youth, rural areas, B40 income group, Asnaf, senior citizens and persons with disabilities. On the regional stage, CEDAR has also been appointed ASEAN’s Centre of Excellence for MSMEs in Green Transition, a recognition listed among the Priority Economic Deliverables for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. This milestone affirms SME Bank’s leadership in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for enterprises, both at home and across ASEAN.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Inclusive Developmental Programmes
SME Bank serves as a catalyst for national SME transformation, going beyond financing to deliver comprehensive capacity building that empowers unserved and underserved enterprises to realise their full potential. The Bank’s efforts span key strategic sectors vital to Malaysia’s economic future, including Bumiputera development, technology and innovation, digital adoption, climate-resilient initiatives, the halal industry and tourism. Through these targeted interventions, SME Bank is equipping entrepreneurs to lead in innovation, embrace sustainability, and compete confidently on both domestic and global stages.
The Halal Entrepreneurship Development Programme has supported over 400 participants since its launch in 2023, while the Program Pembangunan Kapasiti Vendor has onboarded 109 vendors with RM15.87 million incentives approved. As of 2024, 28% of the vendors recorded at least a 5% increase in revenue, contributing to total vendor revenue of RM1.23 billion. The Business Exports Programme, a structured intervention programme funded by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (“MECD”) and in collaboration with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (“MATRADE”), has facilitated RM191.93 million in export sales through the onboarding of 98 companies across five phases. These businesses have expanded their footprint into key global markets including Southeast Asia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Subsequently, the SME Bank XCESS, the Bank’s flagship business matching platform, continues to serve as a conduit for Malaysian SMEs to access international markets. In 2024, XCESS generated approximately RM178 million in immediate and potential sales, drawing the participation of around 450 attendees, including 24 international buyers from 12 countries, namely Brazil, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, India, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia. Riding on this positive momentum, XCESS 2025 is scheduled for 25 September 2025 at the Royale Chulan Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
Complementing this, the SME Bank iTEKAD ISHRAF, a structured Asnaf entrepreneurship empowerment programme under BNM’s iTEKAD initiative has delivered notable impact since its introduction in 2023 (“ISHRAF 3.0”). The programme has successfully mobilised over RM5 million in crowd-in funds from iTEKAD BNM and strategic partners. To date, the participants have collectively recorded a 126% increase in sales, amounting to RM19.25 million. The programme has also generated 182 new jobs, enabled 314 entrepreneurs to adopt new technologies, and facilitated the creation of 224 business networks.
Meanwhile, to ensure involvement in policy decision, the Bank is assuming a pivotal role in re-establishing the Pusat Dataraya Usahawan, a centralised national database of entrepreneurs. Led by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, this initiative is aligned with the objectives of the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2030, serving as a strategic platform to strengthen data-driven interventions and accelerate growth across the MSME sector.
Charting The Way Forward for High-Impact MSME Empowerment
Looking ahead, SME Bank will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing the MSME agenda with over RM1 billion strategic initiatives mandated to the Bank under the National Budget 2025. This includes delivering both financing and beyond financing support across key strategic sectors such as Bumiputera entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, ESG adoption, the halal economy, and tourism.
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim said “Our robust performance in the 1H 2025 reinforces our dedication to driving impact beyond financing by providing not only capital, but also capacity‑building, innovation, and inclusivity to generate meaningful and enduring results. Underscoring our developmental mandate, we are proud to empower thousands of entrepreneurs across the country. As we move forward, SME Bank will continue to be a catalyst for transformation by delivering innovative solutions and facilitating Malaysia’s MSMEs to thrive locally and globally.”
In support of its ongoing initiatives, SME Bank has recently launched new strategic initiatives from the National Budget 2025, which include the MySMELady 2.0, Pembiayaan Ekosistem Payung, Dana Kelestarian Alam and Maju Usahawan Madani programme, alongside the Bank’s Islamic social finance effort through the fourth edition of the SME Bank iTEKAD ISHRAF initiative (“ISHRAF 4.0”). This programme aims to empower approximately 400 entrepreneurs nationwide from the B40 and Asnaf communities to achieve a minimum increase of 10% in their business sales. Other programmes offered by SME Bank include the Vanigham Financing Scheme, SME Technology Transformation Fund, HalalBiz Financing, Social Enterprise Financing Scheme, Jaguh Serantau, the Business Accelerator Programme under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, and the Dana Kemampanan PMKS Bumiputera 2.0.
Since its inception in 2005, SME Bank has played a vital role in strengthening Malaysia’s economic landscape, disbursing over RM46 billion in financing to more than 24,000 MSMEs. In addition, the Bank, through CEDAR has supported the development of approximately 88,000 entrepreneurs through targeted capacity building initiatives.
For more information on SME Bank and its available funding and programmes, visit www.smebankcom.my or call 03-26037700.
SME Bank Developmental Achievements 1H2025 - Google Drive
Issued by:
SME Bank Group Strategic Communication
SOURCE: Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia (SME Bank)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Arnee Ismail
Head, Group Strategic Communication
SME Bank
Tel: +603 2603 7700
Email: communications@smebank.com.my
--BERNAMA
Delivering High-Impact Beyond Financing & Capacity Building Initiatives
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting President and Chief Executive Officer of SME Bank said, “Reaffirming SME Bank’s mandate to creating broader developmental impact, we have successfully empowered 5,735 entrepreneurs in the 1H 2025 with the support of our dedicated capacity building and training arm, the Centre for Entrepreneur Development and Research (“CEDAR”) as the lead implementer. This reflects a remarkable increase of 158% compared to 2,225 entrepreneurs recorded during the same period in 2024.”
“Among the beyond financing programmes entrusted to SME Bank is the Maju Usahawan MADANI programme, which was introduced to strengthen the MSME ecosystem through targeted capacity-building. Spanning from January 2025 to March 2026, the programme aims to assist 3,000 micro entrepreneurs. As of June 2025, a total of 1,632 entrepreneurs have benefited from this initiative, including MSMEs from the Bumiputera community, youth, rural areas, B40 income group, Asnaf, senior citizens and persons with disabilities. On the regional stage, CEDAR has also been appointed ASEAN’s Centre of Excellence for MSMEs in Green Transition, a recognition listed among the Priority Economic Deliverables for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. This milestone affirms SME Bank’s leadership in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for enterprises, both at home and across ASEAN.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Inclusive Developmental Programmes
SME Bank serves as a catalyst for national SME transformation, going beyond financing to deliver comprehensive capacity building that empowers unserved and underserved enterprises to realise their full potential. The Bank’s efforts span key strategic sectors vital to Malaysia’s economic future, including Bumiputera development, technology and innovation, digital adoption, climate-resilient initiatives, the halal industry and tourism. Through these targeted interventions, SME Bank is equipping entrepreneurs to lead in innovation, embrace sustainability, and compete confidently on both domestic and global stages.
The Halal Entrepreneurship Development Programme has supported over 400 participants since its launch in 2023, while the Program Pembangunan Kapasiti Vendor has onboarded 109 vendors with RM15.87 million incentives approved. As of 2024, 28% of the vendors recorded at least a 5% increase in revenue, contributing to total vendor revenue of RM1.23 billion. The Business Exports Programme, a structured intervention programme funded by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (“MECD”) and in collaboration with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (“MATRADE”), has facilitated RM191.93 million in export sales through the onboarding of 98 companies across five phases. These businesses have expanded their footprint into key global markets including Southeast Asia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Subsequently, the SME Bank XCESS, the Bank’s flagship business matching platform, continues to serve as a conduit for Malaysian SMEs to access international markets. In 2024, XCESS generated approximately RM178 million in immediate and potential sales, drawing the participation of around 450 attendees, including 24 international buyers from 12 countries, namely Brazil, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, India, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia. Riding on this positive momentum, XCESS 2025 is scheduled for 25 September 2025 at the Royale Chulan Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
Complementing this, the SME Bank iTEKAD ISHRAF, a structured Asnaf entrepreneurship empowerment programme under BNM’s iTEKAD initiative has delivered notable impact since its introduction in 2023 (“ISHRAF 3.0”). The programme has successfully mobilised over RM5 million in crowd-in funds from iTEKAD BNM and strategic partners. To date, the participants have collectively recorded a 126% increase in sales, amounting to RM19.25 million. The programme has also generated 182 new jobs, enabled 314 entrepreneurs to adopt new technologies, and facilitated the creation of 224 business networks.
Meanwhile, to ensure involvement in policy decision, the Bank is assuming a pivotal role in re-establishing the Pusat Dataraya Usahawan, a centralised national database of entrepreneurs. Led by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, this initiative is aligned with the objectives of the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2030, serving as a strategic platform to strengthen data-driven interventions and accelerate growth across the MSME sector.
Charting The Way Forward for High-Impact MSME Empowerment
Looking ahead, SME Bank will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing the MSME agenda with over RM1 billion strategic initiatives mandated to the Bank under the National Budget 2025. This includes delivering both financing and beyond financing support across key strategic sectors such as Bumiputera entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, ESG adoption, the halal economy, and tourism.
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim said “Our robust performance in the 1H 2025 reinforces our dedication to driving impact beyond financing by providing not only capital, but also capacity‑building, innovation, and inclusivity to generate meaningful and enduring results. Underscoring our developmental mandate, we are proud to empower thousands of entrepreneurs across the country. As we move forward, SME Bank will continue to be a catalyst for transformation by delivering innovative solutions and facilitating Malaysia’s MSMEs to thrive locally and globally.”
In support of its ongoing initiatives, SME Bank has recently launched new strategic initiatives from the National Budget 2025, which include the MySMELady 2.0, Pembiayaan Ekosistem Payung, Dana Kelestarian Alam and Maju Usahawan Madani programme, alongside the Bank’s Islamic social finance effort through the fourth edition of the SME Bank iTEKAD ISHRAF initiative (“ISHRAF 4.0”). This programme aims to empower approximately 400 entrepreneurs nationwide from the B40 and Asnaf communities to achieve a minimum increase of 10% in their business sales. Other programmes offered by SME Bank include the Vanigham Financing Scheme, SME Technology Transformation Fund, HalalBiz Financing, Social Enterprise Financing Scheme, Jaguh Serantau, the Business Accelerator Programme under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, and the Dana Kemampanan PMKS Bumiputera 2.0.
Since its inception in 2005, SME Bank has played a vital role in strengthening Malaysia’s economic landscape, disbursing over RM46 billion in financing to more than 24,000 MSMEs. In addition, the Bank, through CEDAR has supported the development of approximately 88,000 entrepreneurs through targeted capacity building initiatives.
For more information on SME Bank and its available funding and programmes, visit www.smebankcom.my or call 03-26037700.
SME Bank Developmental Achievements 1H2025 - Google Drive
Issued by:
SME Bank Group Strategic Communication
SOURCE: Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia (SME Bank)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Arnee Ismail
Head, Group Strategic Communication
SME Bank
Tel: +603 2603 7700
Email: communications@smebank.com.my
--BERNAMA
The China Jiangsu Service Trade Expo (Malaysia) Will Open on August 22
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| China Jiangsu Service Trade Expo 2025 will be place at Hall 1, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) from 22nd to 24th August 2025. Scan & register now, see you there! |
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- From August 22 to 24, the 3rd China Jiangsu Service Trade Expo will take place in Hall 1 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Hosted by the Department of Commerce of Jiangsu Province and strongly supported by Malaysian trade associations, this expo serves as an innovative platform for trade promotion, established through coordinated efforts among various government agencies. Over the past two years, it has attracted nearly 7,000 professional merchants from over 10 countries and regions for on-site visits and business negotiations.
This year’s event features seven thematic zones: Digital Services, Jiangsu Cultural Specialties, Intellectual Property, International Education Services and Equipment, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gastronomy and International Tourism, and International Business Services. More than 70 enterprises will showcase their premier offerings. Concurrently, a variety of promotional events will be held, including the Jiangsu-Malaysia Digital Trade Matchmaking Conference, the Jiangsu-Malaysia Cross-Border Cultural Tourism Promotion Exchange Conference, and the Jiangsu Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition and Performance.
Leveraging the expo as a strategic platform, these initiatives actively support Jiangsu enterprises in accessing markets involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) while strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.
Spanning from the banks of the Yangtze River to the Strait of Malacca, the expo continues to unleash collaborative potential, build bridges across continents, amplify the voice of service trade in the new era, and accelerate the shared commitment between Jiangsu and Malaysia. We cordially invite Malaysian businesses and friends from all sectors to join us in sharing services and sowing successes.
Source: Department of Commerce of Jiangsu Province
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Email : info@mcigroup.my
--BERNAMA
Friday, August 8, 2025
HUNAN YUNENG CHOOSES MALAYSIA FOR ITS SOUTH EAST ASIAN LITHIUM BATTERY MANUFACTURING HUB
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| From left to right: 1. Yang Berusaha Mr. Ten Wee Seong, Chief Executive Officer, Seri Pajam Development Group 2. Yang Berbahagia Dato' Haji Najmuddin Sharif Bin Sarimon, Chief Executive Officer, Invest Negeri Sembilan 3. Yang Berhormat Dato’ Mohd Zafir Bin Ibrahim, State Government Secretary, Negeri Sembilan 4. Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Aminuddin Bin Haji Harun, Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan 5. Yang Berusaha Mr. Liang Kai, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Hunan Yuneng New Energy Material Company, Limited 6. Yang Berhormat Tuan Teo Kok Seong, EXCO of Investment and Non-Muslim Affairs, Negeri Sembilan 7. Yang Berusaha Ms. Surayu Susah, Executive Director Manufacturing Development (Resource), MIDA 8. Yang Berusaha Mr. Ma Guodong, Chief Investment Officer, Hunan Yuneng New Energy Battery Material Company, Limited 9. Yang Berusaha Mr. Zhou Zhihui, Deputy General Manager, Hunan Yuneng New Energy Battery Material Company, Limited 10. Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Ten Ah Man, Group Executive Chairman, Seri Pajam Development Group |
NEGERI SEMBILAN, Aug 8 (Bernama) -- Leading Chinese battery manufacturer Hunan Yuneng New Energy Battery Material Co., Ltd. ("Hunan Yuneng") has officially committed to establishing its first Southeast Asian manufacturing facility in Malaysia. The company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Invest Negeri Sembilan and SPD Tech Valley Sdn. Bhd. on August 7, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia's growing clean energy sector.
The new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malaysia will be dedicated primarily to producing lithium battery cathode materials. This project represents Hunan Yuneng’s inaugural presence in Malaysia and expected to create over 200 new job opportunities, demonstrating the company’s commitment to Malaysia’s continuous economic development.
The MoU was formally signed between YBhg. Dato' Hj. Najmuddin Sharif Bin Sarimon, Chief Operating Officer of Invest NS, Mr. Liang Kai, Deputy CEO of Hunan Yuneng and Mr. Ten Wee Seong, CEO of SPD Tech Valley. The signing ceremony was witnessed by YAB Dato' Seri Utama Haji Aminuddin Bin Harun, Menteri Besar Negeri Sembilan, highlighting the strategic significance of this collaboration.
Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said, " This MoU marks a significant milestone that aligns perfectly with Malaysia's long-term industrial transformation plans under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. We've identified sustainability, innovation, and advanced technology as key pillars driving our nation’s growth, and this investment by the company aligns strongly with all these priorities. MIDA stands ready to support this project with our full range of facilitation services and ecosystem development initiatives. Having Hunan Yuneng's technical expertise, combined with strong local partnerships, puts Malaysia in an excellent position to strengthen our global clean energy value chain.”
Mr. Liang Kai, Deputy CEO of Hunan Yuneng, said, “Malaysia has successfully drawn a growing cluster of Chinese enterprises across the entire new-energy battery industry to establish operations. The forthcoming Malaysian facility will serve as Hunan Yuneng’s strategic springboard for expanding throughout Southeast Asia. Hunan Yuneng’s participation will materially strengthen Malaysia’s new-energy battery ecosystem, elevating the nation’s position as a comprehensive industry hub in the region.”
In Q12025, Malaysia approved RM89.8 billion in investments, with the manufacturing sector accounting for RM30.5 billion. Notably, the chemicals and chemical products sub-sector attracted RM4.2 billion, ranking third among contributors to manufacturing investment – a trend that underscores investor confidence in Malaysia’s industrial diversification.
For media enquiries, please refer to this link: https://shorturl.at/BZPV7
SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Puan Siti Halimaton Mohd. Rejab
Director, Chemical and Advanced Materials Division
Tel.: +603-2267 6701
Email: shalimaton@mida.gov.my
Hunan Yuneng
Name: Mr. Flynn Ma
Director of Hunan Yuneng New Energy Battery Material Co., Ltd.
Email: flynn@hunanyuneng.com
--BERNAMA
CIMB and CEO Action Network spotlights the success factors behind China’s green finance surge at CIMB’s Cooler Earth Sustainability Series
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| Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic |
Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed, Chief Executive Officer of Bursa Malaysia and Interim Chair of the CAN Steering Committee, opened the session by emphasising the importance of using real-world insights in shaping locally focused actions to address climate change.
“Escalating climate risks highlight the growing importance of transition finance as a bridge to enable high-carbon, hard-to-abate sectors to shift towards more sustainable business models. There is much more to be done in operationalising green taxonomies and realigning market incentives to drive capital flows into sustainable initiatives,” said Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed.
Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic, highlighted how insights from China’s green finance journey could support ASEAN in developing bankable green portfolios and mobilising private capital.
“CIMB is committed to playing a catalytic role in ASEAN’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Malaysian corporates and financial institutions can gain valuable insights by studying China’s green financing strategies and tailoring them to our regional needs. By embedding sustainability at the core of our financial frameworks, we not only contribute to global environmental objectives but also open up new pathways for economic development. Embracing innovation and forward- looking approaches will help create a more resilient and inclusive future for both businesses and the communities we serve,” said Shahriman.
The session featured a keynote by Dr. Ma Jun, a globally recognised expert in green finance, who is Chairman of the Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (“CASI”) and President of the Institute of Finance and Sustainability (“IFS”). Dr. Ma has been instrumental in shaping some of the world’s most influential green finance frameworks, including China’s first green finance guidelines, the G20 Sustainable Finance roadmap, and the China–EU Common Ground Taxonomy. He was recently awarded the Hong Kong Medal of Honour for his outstanding contributions to green finance policy and development.
Dr. Ma shared how coordinated policy, market incentives and financial innovation have enabled China to future-proof its economy. China now generates over 60% of its installed power capacity from renewable sources and is on track to reduce coal power to just 5% by 2045–2050. Electric Vehicles (“EVs”) make up more than 50% of new car sales, with internal combustion engines potentially obsolete by 2030. China also dominates global battery production, with some technologies accounting for up to 90% of global output.
Dr. Ma highlighted how green finance was instrumental in this transition, with the majority of capital flowing into renewable energy, transport and manufacturing sectors to drive large-scale decarbonisation. Today, China is home to the world’s largest green finance market, with over RMB40 trillion (USD5.5 trillion) in outstanding green loans, RMB2.2 trillion (USD302 billion) in green bonds, and more than 1,000 green equity funds. Dr. Ma shared that out of the RMB487 trillion (USD66.9 trillion) needed for green investments in China over 30 years, about two-thirds can be financed through the existing green finance ecosystem, leaving one-third still to be funded, indicating the significant room for green and transition finance growth.
Dr. Ma also emphasised the importance of a coordinated approach across regulators, financial institutions and industry players. He shared practical examples from China where insurance solutions were used to de-risk green technologies and support bankability – including energy efficiency performance guarantees for buildings, revenue protection for renewable energy, and biodiversity-linked crop insurance in rural regions to protect the farmers.
“ESG in China is not just about managing risks, it is a long-term national strategy for competitiveness and financial resilience. ASEAN has the potential to benefit by adopting shared taxonomies like the China–EU Common Ground Taxonomy, improving cross-border carbon markets, and scaling green finance through product innovation and industry collaboration. With the right policy, financial and technical ecosystems in place, ASEAN can accelerate its transition and seize new growth opportunities. Business leaders should adopt the long-term view, noting that while ESG investments may involve short-term costs, as they are key to building competitiveness, innovation, and long-term value,” said Dr. Ma Jun.
The event was also supported by BoardRoom Group, NTT Data Payment Services, Impacto and Big Caring Group.
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 RM88.0 billion at 31 March 2025. 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 in ASEAN nations in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and 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 592 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 31 March 2025. 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 92.5% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.8% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.
About CEO Action Network (CAN)
The CEO Action Network (CAN) is a coalition of over 70 Malaysian CEOs and Board members committed to sustainability advocacy, policy influence, and inclusive leadership. Founded in 2020, CAN drives cross- sector transformation through peer collaboration and real-world action. CIMB is a founding sponsor and active member of CAN, having co-conceptualised the network in 2020 together with its sustainability partner, Impacto.
Website: https://ceoactionnetwork.wixsite.com/home
SOURCE: CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Name: Anis Azharuddin
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com
Name: Kelvin Jude Muthu
Email: kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com
--BERNAMA
RUBICON CLOSES FIRST ROUND FOR OPPORTUNISTIC FUND II, EYES BAY AREA REBOUND
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8 -- Rubicon Point Partners (Rubicon) has announced the first closing of its Rubicon Point Fund II, a real estate investment vehicle targeting special situation opportunities across the West Coast of the United States, with a strategic focus on the San Francisco Bay Area.
Launched in January 2025, the fund is property-type agnostic, enabling it to remain flexible and responsive to the evolving market environment.
Fund II marks a return to Rubicon’s strategy of investing in dislocated markets to generate higher returns, drawing on experience gained after the global financial crisis.
The firm’s current market conditions, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising interest rates, have created attractive pricing opportunities for high-quality, income-generating properties.
“We believe today’s conditions offer some of the most compelling discounts on premium real estate seen in the past three decades,” said Rubicon Managing Partner, Razmig Boladian in a statement.
He said the growth of the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, coupled with its global economic and geopolitical significance, presents a unique investment window, particularly with San Francisco and Silicon Valley at the forefront of the AI race.
Meanwhile, its Managing Partner, Ani Vartanian said that while capital-raising conditions remain challenging, the firm remains optimistic given the data collected, opportunities identified and positive market trends.
Despite a competitive fundraising climate, Rubicon attracted a blend of new and repeat investors, buoyed by conviction in the firm’s thesis of buying high-quality assets clouded by short-term challenges but poised for long-term gains.
With deal flow building and optimism running high, the firm aims to build on the momentum from the first close as Fund II progresses throughout 2025.
-- BERNAMA
Launched in January 2025, the fund is property-type agnostic, enabling it to remain flexible and responsive to the evolving market environment.
Fund II marks a return to Rubicon’s strategy of investing in dislocated markets to generate higher returns, drawing on experience gained after the global financial crisis.
The firm’s current market conditions, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising interest rates, have created attractive pricing opportunities for high-quality, income-generating properties.
“We believe today’s conditions offer some of the most compelling discounts on premium real estate seen in the past three decades,” said Rubicon Managing Partner, Razmig Boladian in a statement.
He said the growth of the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, coupled with its global economic and geopolitical significance, presents a unique investment window, particularly with San Francisco and Silicon Valley at the forefront of the AI race.
Meanwhile, its Managing Partner, Ani Vartanian said that while capital-raising conditions remain challenging, the firm remains optimistic given the data collected, opportunities identified and positive market trends.
Despite a competitive fundraising climate, Rubicon attracted a blend of new and repeat investors, buoyed by conviction in the firm’s thesis of buying high-quality assets clouded by short-term challenges but poised for long-term gains.
With deal flow building and optimism running high, the firm aims to build on the momentum from the first close as Fund II progresses throughout 2025.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Kioxia Unveils Flash Storage Innovations To Power AI At FMS 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 (Bernama) -- Kioxia Group, a global leader in memory solutions, is set to dominate the spotlight at FMS: the Future of Memory and Storage, showcasing innovations that power scalable and efficient AI infrastructure.
In a statement, the company said it would demonstrate how its latest flash memory and solid-state drive (SSD) technologies are transforming enterprise and data centre environments at the Flash Memory Summit (FMS) 2025 which is being held at the Santa Clara Convention Center, United States.
At the centre of Kioxia’s exhibition is the debut of the KIOXIA LC9 Series, the industry’s first 245.76 terabyte (TB) NVMe SSD. The group will also feature the KIOXIA CM9 and CD9P Series SSDs, which use its eighth-generation BiCS FLASH 3D flash memory to deliver enhanced performance, power efficiency, and flexibility.
Kioxia will further display one terabit (Tb) 3bit/cell (TLC) products built with its ninth and 10th-generation BiCS FLASH 3D flash memory, integrating advanced technologies such as Toggle DD6.0, Separate Command Address (SCA) protocol, and Power Isolated Low-Tapped Termination (PI-LTT), aimed at boosting speed and reducing power consumption.
The company delivered a keynote titled “Optimize AI Infrastructure Investments with Flash Memory Technology and Storage Solutions” presented by senior leaders Katsuki Matsudera and Neville Ichhaporia on Aug 5.
Kioxia will also participate in Executive AI Panel on “Memory and Storage Scaling for AI Inferencing” on Aug 7, featuring Rory Bolt, Senior Fellow at Kioxia America Inc.
Additionally, Kioxia will host live demonstrations featuring 10 exhibit zones, featuring high-capacity/low-latency flash memory, BiCS FLASH generation 9 and 10 displays, UFS solutions for automotive and consumer use, and high-performance NVMe SSDs in various enterprise use cases.
Notable showcases include a 245.76 TB SSD integrated into a Dell PowerEdge 7715 server, GPU direct SSD emulation at 143 million IOPS, and demonstrations of Kioxia’s AiSAQ software and RAID offload capabilities.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
INNOCEAN, SHINSEGAE LAUNCH REAL-TIME 3D SAFETY CAMPAIGN ON BUSAN BEACH
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| The World's Biggest Lifeguard in Busan, South Korea (Photo: INNOCEAN) |
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 (Bernama) -- INNOCEAN, in collaboration with Shinsegae Property, has launched a public safety campaign dubbed “The World’s Biggest Lifeguard” at Haeundae Beach, Busan, using South Korea’s largest digital signage display outside the Seoul metropolitan area.
The campaign, which went live in June, uses a 3D anamorphic video of an oversized lifeguard to deliver real-time safety alerts to beachgoers through the Grand Josun Media board.
The lifeguard display reflects live environmental data such as weather conditions and wave height, adjusting its safety messages accordingly.
“We will continue to develop campaigns that positively impact society through creative media,” said INNOCEAN Global Chief Executive Officer, Yongwoo Lee in a statement.
Meanwhile, an INNOCEAN official stated: “We believed outdoor advertising could deliver a strong visual impact. To build trust, we featured a real Haeundae Beach lifeguard as a model in the video.”
With 200,000 to 250,000 daily visitors during peak season, Haeundae Beach faces rising challenges from climate-related changes such as stronger rip currents, as well as safety concerns like swimming under the influence. Limited rescue personnel mean verbal warnings are often inadequate.
By using immersive visuals and live data, the campaign seeks to improve public safety and enhance the visitor experience. It also doubles as a digital tourism attraction, blending technology with civic messaging.
Measuring 25 metres in width and 31 metres in height, the curved digital screen is mounted on the facade of Grand Josun Busan and has attracted major public attention since its activation.
When waves are high, the lifeguard issues alerts with varying degrees of beach access restrictions. In normal conditions, the display simulates weather changes to enhance realism. The digital content also shifts to show nighttime surveillance scenes, reinforcing around-the-clock vigilance by emergency teams.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by Shinsegae Property and INNOCEAN to explore digital-out-of-home (DOOH) solutions that promote public awareness and contribute to urban experiences.
-- BERNAMA
InvestKL Secures RM2.8 Billion in Investments in 1H 2025, Strengthening Greater KL as ASEAN’s Strategic Modern and Global Services Hub
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| Datuk Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli, CEO of InvestKL |
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 (Bernama) -- InvestKL has secured RM2.8 billion in committed investments in the first half of 2025, anchoring five new regional hubs in Greater Kuala Lumpur and creating 1,197 high-skilled job opportunities. This achievement reinforces Greater KL’s rise as a strategic destination for global companies investing in high-value, innovation-driven services, a key pillar in Malaysia’s strategy for long-term economic resilience.
The new investments span sectors including IT infrastructure, consumer healthcare, materials science, financial asset servicing, and renewable energy. These hubs will serve as platforms for regional growth, advancing Malaysia’s position in the global services value chain.
The new regional establishments include:
· A Mainframe Centre of Excellence by the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, supporting mission-critical systems across key sectors.
· A Global Business Services Hub by a leading healthcare group, streamlining operations across Southeast Asia.
· A multifunctional Regional Hub by a global materials science and digital ID leader, driving advanced manufacturing and supply chain innovation.
· A Centre of Excellence offering asset servicing, compliance, and IT support by a leading financial services provider.
· A digital-first Global Services Hub by a top renewable energy player, powering green transformation and regional sustainability.
“These investments demonstrate continued confidence in Malaysia’s strong fundamentals and mark a milestone in enhancing the region’s ease of doing business,” said Datuk Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli, CEO of InvestKL.
“As global companies adapt to evolving market conditions — including trade realignments and rising tariffs — Greater KL offers a future-ready ecosystem underpinned by robust infrastructure, world-class talent, and proactive government support. We are also seeing strong momentum in AI, digital, and technology-driven investments — a testament to Malaysia’s strategic focus on high-value, innovation-led activities that will ensure long-term competitiveness and economic resilience,” he added.
The 1,197 new jobs span regional, specialist, and support functions, with average executive salaries exceeding RM11,700 per month.
This milestone brings InvestKL’s cumulative achievements to over 150 global services hubs and 31,000 high-skilled jobs since inception, in line with the Madani Economic Framework, National Investment Aspirations (NIA), NIMP2030, and Malaysia’s 12th and upcoming 13th Malaysia Plans, all of which emphasise services-led growth, innovation, and inclusive development.
About InvestKL
InvestKL is the lead investment agency for Greater Kuala Lumpur (Greater KL). Guided by the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030) and the MADANI Economy framework, InvestKL attracts and facilitates the establishment of modern and global services regional hubs by the world‘s leading companies. As a holistic partner, InvestKL is involved in every stage of the investment process, from a partner in early project implementation to post-investment services. InvestKL supports Malaysia‘s ambition to become a technology-driven green nation through quality investments, transfer of knowledge, and the creation of high-skilled executive jobs for Malaysians.
SOURCE: InvestKL
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Engku Nur Anis Adila
Director, Strategic Communications
Tel: +6019-2298346
Email: engku.adila@investkl.gov.my
--BERNAMA
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Bitget Enables Auto-Buy Opening Passive Investing with Up to 30% ROI Annually
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Aug 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has introduced its new recurring buy feature enabling systematic investment plan, allowing users to schedule automated crypto purchases using Visa and Mastercard. The feature is designed to help users build long-term crypto portfolios with minimal effort, applying a proven strategy known as Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA) — a method that has historically delivered returns of up to 30% or more in rising market cycles.
With Recurring Buy, users can choose to purchase cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum at fixed intervals — daily, weekly, or monthly — without manually executing trades or reacting emotionally to market volatility. This tool empowers users to automate their investment journey and grow their holdings consistently, making it ideal for beginners or busy investors seeking passive exposure to the crypto market.
Bitget’s new feature offers a frictionless on-ramp experience by enabling direct card payments for recurring crypto purchases. Unlike traditional buy flows that rely on manual timing or delayed bank transfers, Recurring Buy ensures instant execution, higher efficiency, and a fully hands-free investing experience. Once the user configures their recurring schedule, the system takes care of the rest — buying the selected crypto automatically, with no further action required.
The logic behind DCA is simple but powerful: by spreading purchases over time, investors can avoid the pressure of timing the market and reduce the impact of short-term price fluctuations. This approach has long been used by traditional investors and is now gaining popularity in the crypto space. In fact, many successful long-term holders of Bitcoin and Ethereum began with small, consistent investments — made automatically and without active trading — and saw their portfolios grow significantly during major bull runs.
Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, commented on the launch: “We designed Recurring Buy to help users invest smarter — not harder. The strategy behind it has already proven itself countless times: when users commit to regular, long-term accumulation, they’re better positioned to ride the next wave of market growth. This feature makes that strategy effortless and accessible to everyone.”
Bitget’s Recurring Buy is part of its broader mission to offer users intelligent, secure, and accessible tools for building digital wealth. By combining automation, low entry barriers, and a user-friendly interface, the feature lowers the friction for anyone looking to start — or continue — their crypto journey with discipline and confidence.
For more details on how to set it up, users can visit here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/024df241-83cb-4f35-a235-a2b7519acd20
SOURCE : Bitget Limited
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
Bitget’s new feature offers a frictionless on-ramp experience by enabling direct card payments for recurring crypto purchases. Unlike traditional buy flows that rely on manual timing or delayed bank transfers, Recurring Buy ensures instant execution, higher efficiency, and a fully hands-free investing experience. Once the user configures their recurring schedule, the system takes care of the rest — buying the selected crypto automatically, with no further action required.
The logic behind DCA is simple but powerful: by spreading purchases over time, investors can avoid the pressure of timing the market and reduce the impact of short-term price fluctuations. This approach has long been used by traditional investors and is now gaining popularity in the crypto space. In fact, many successful long-term holders of Bitcoin and Ethereum began with small, consistent investments — made automatically and without active trading — and saw their portfolios grow significantly during major bull runs.
Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, commented on the launch: “We designed Recurring Buy to help users invest smarter — not harder. The strategy behind it has already proven itself countless times: when users commit to regular, long-term accumulation, they’re better positioned to ride the next wave of market growth. This feature makes that strategy effortless and accessible to everyone.”
Bitget’s Recurring Buy is part of its broader mission to offer users intelligent, secure, and accessible tools for building digital wealth. By combining automation, low entry barriers, and a user-friendly interface, the feature lowers the friction for anyone looking to start — or continue — their crypto journey with discipline and confidence.
For more details on how to set it up, users can visit here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/024df241-83cb-4f35-a235-a2b7519acd20
SOURCE : Bitget Limited
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
DIALIGHT SET TO INAUGURATE PENANG FACILITY, POWERING APAC GROWTH
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- Dialight, a global leader in industrial LED lighting and opto-electronic LED technology, has announced the official inauguration of its new manufacturing facility in Penang, taking place on Aug 12.
Dialight in a statement said the new facility marked a significant milestone in the company’s global growth strategy and its commitment to long-term investment in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
“This is more than just a new facility; it is a strategic hub for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our presence in Penang is central to supporting our customers around the world, particularly in the growing APAC market,” said Dialight Chief Executive Officer, Steve Blair.
The new plant consolidates the production of Dialight’s Solid State Lighting and Optoelectronics product lines into a single, streamlined facility.
By uniting operations, Dialight aims to harness synergies across both product groups to drive process improvements, operational efficiency, and enhanced service for its global customer base.
The new facility reflects Dialight’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence, delivering a reduced environmental footprint while continuing to support customers with the highest standards of quality and reliability.
The inauguration is set to host distinguished guests from the Malaysian state government, alongside representatives from Dialight’s customer, supplier, and manufacturing partner networks.
-- BERNAMA
Dialight in a statement said the new facility marked a significant milestone in the company’s global growth strategy and its commitment to long-term investment in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
“This is more than just a new facility; it is a strategic hub for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our presence in Penang is central to supporting our customers around the world, particularly in the growing APAC market,” said Dialight Chief Executive Officer, Steve Blair.
The new plant consolidates the production of Dialight’s Solid State Lighting and Optoelectronics product lines into a single, streamlined facility.
By uniting operations, Dialight aims to harness synergies across both product groups to drive process improvements, operational efficiency, and enhanced service for its global customer base.
The new facility reflects Dialight’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence, delivering a reduced environmental footprint while continuing to support customers with the highest standards of quality and reliability.
The inauguration is set to host distinguished guests from the Malaysian state government, alongside representatives from Dialight’s customer, supplier, and manufacturing partner networks.
-- BERNAMA
ZOLL EXECUTIVE RECEIVES DATO’ TITLE FOR LIFESAVING EFFORTS IN PENANG
 |
| Christopher Barnabas |
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- ZOLL, a medical device and software solutions company under Japan’s Asahi Kasei Group, announced that Christopher Barnabas, Vice President of its Acute Care Technology division, has received the prestigious honour from the Penang state government.
Barnabas has been conferred the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN), or State Loyalty Degree Star, one of Penang’s highest state honours, which carries the honorary title of Dato’, in recognition of his contributions to emergency medical services in the state during an investiture ceremony held on July 26.
The DSPN award is one of Penang’s highest state honours, given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to the state and nation, according to the company in a statement.
A veteran in the medical technology sector with over 30 years of experience, Barnabas has been actively involved in advancing lifesaving efforts across local communities.
He is a known supporter of emergency response initiatives and collaborates closely with organisations such as the George Town Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
ZOLL is proud to celebrate this recognition of Barnabas’ dedication and voluntary contributions to improving emergency care in Penang.
In conjunction with the conferment, his wife, Anne Rodrigues, was also bestowed the title of Datin.
The honour was presented by the Governor of Penang, Tun Dato' Seri DiRaja Ramli Ngah Talib, during the official ceremony.
ZOLL provides a comprehensive set of technologies that help clinicians, emergency medical services (EMS) and fire professionals, as well as lay rescuers, improve patient outcomes in critical cardiopulmonary conditions.
-- BERNAMA
Sunday, August 3, 2025
HERE and EROAD Deepen Collaboration to Transform Trucking in Australia and New Zealand
· EROAD to launch first-ever vehicle-aware navigation application in Oceania, powered by HERE’s advanced platform and vehicle-specific data.
· Partnership addresses critical challenges in the freight sector, including safety, productivity and compliance.
AUSTRALIA, July 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HERE Technologies, a global leader in digital mapping and location data, is expanding its collaboration with EROAD, a leading provider of fleet management and telematics solutions, to power EROAD’s first vehicle-aware navigation application for Oceania. The solution will be available in Australia and New Zealand and is designed to enhance driver safety, fleet efficiency and regulatory compliance. The new solution will be built on the HERE platform, leveraging advanced routing services and truck-specific data.
This deepened partnership reflects both companies’ shared commitment to delivering innovative transport solutions tailored to the needs of commercial vehicle and fleet operators globally. By combining HERE’s location intelligence with EROAD’s operational expertise, the partnership aims to improve delivery accuracy, simplify route planning, and elevate the day-to-day experience for both drivers and fleet managers.
Built for Fleets, Designed for Drivers
EROAD’s new vehicle-aware navigation application draws on key capabilities from HERE WeGo Pro, a mobile-first, professional-grade application that transforms centrally planned routes into real-time, turn-by-turn guidance. Designed specifically for commercial fleets, the new solution offers:
· Truck-specific routing that considers vehicle dimensions, cargo type and road restrictions.
· Real-time traffic updates are refreshed every five minutes across the entire road network.
· Multi-stop tour planning and predictive ETAs for SLA-compliant deliveries.
· Offline functionality for uninterrupted service in remote areas.
· Driver-centric design that reduces stress and supports retention.
“Our partnership with EROAD is critical in shaping the future of truck-specific navigation in the region,” said Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific at HERE Technologies. “With the HERE platform at its core, the vehicle-aware navigation application enables fleets to gain real-time insights, optimised truck routes, and critical alerts to prevent incidents like bridge strikes. It also helps operators remain compliant with road regulations, avoid costly fines and reduce operational risks. This level of intelligent navigation empowers fleets to operate more efficiently while enhancing safety and elevating the driver experience.”
Growing Demand in Oceania for Smarter, Connected Vehicle Technologies
The launch comes at a critical time for Australia and New Zealand’s transport and logistics sector. According to a recent report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the installed base of fleet management systems in ANZ is projected to reach 2.7 million units by 2028¹, reflecting the growing demand for smarter, more connected vehicle technologies.
Meanwhile, the industry faces mounting pressure from a looming driver shortage. A report by The International Road Transport Union highlights that 47% of Australia’s truck drivers are over the age of 55, with more than 21% expected to retire by 2029². The country is already short nearly 28,000 heavy vehicle drivers, underscoring the urgent need for tools that can support both new and experienced drivers on the road.
“Oceania’s transport and logistics sector is under immense pressure - from driver shortages to rising delivery demands and increasingly complex compliance requirements,” said Mark Davidson, Chief Product Officer at EROAD. “With our expanded partnership with HERE, we’re equipping our customers with a solution that not only helps them navigate these challenges, but also positions them to operate more safely, efficiently, and competitively in a rapidly evolving market.”
To learn more about HERE’s truck-optimised navigation capabilities, visit https://www.here.com/products/wego-pro
Media Contacts
EROAD
Rich Llewellyn
027 523 2362
richard@shanahan.nz
HERE Technologies
Vanessa Lee
+65 9188 6199
Vanessa.lee@here.com
About EROAD
EROAD (NZX/ASX: ERD) is a hardware-enabled SaaS company delivering safety, compliance, sustainability and efficiency solutions for complex fleets.
Its connected platform is used by commercial and government operators across New Zealand, Australia and North America to manage vehicles, assets and drivers with greater visibility and control. EROAD supports demanding, highly regulated fleet operations, including those moving food, concrete and aggregates, enabling them to operate smarter, safer and more sustainably. EROAD’s platform is built on a foundation of regulatory expertise, having delivered the world’s first GPS-based road user charging system in New Zealand, where it remains the market leader today.
About HERE Technologies
HERE has been a pioneer in mapping and location technology for 40 years. Today, HERE’s location platform is recognized as the most complete in the industry, powering location-based products, services and custom maps for organizations and enterprises across the globe. From autonomous driving and seamless logistics to new mobility experiences, HERE allows its partners and customers to innovate while retaining control over their data and safeguarding privacy. Find out how HERE is moving the world forward at here.com.
¹Fleet Management in Australia and New Zealand - 9th Edition
²Global Truck Driver Shortage Report 2024
Attachment
· HERE and EROAD Deepen Collaboration to Transform Trucking in Australia and New Zealand
SOURCE: HERE Europe B.V.
--BERNAMA
AUSTRALIA, July 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HERE Technologies, a global leader in digital mapping and location data, is expanding its collaboration with EROAD, a leading provider of fleet management and telematics solutions, to power EROAD’s first vehicle-aware navigation application for Oceania. The solution will be available in Australia and New Zealand and is designed to enhance driver safety, fleet efficiency and regulatory compliance. The new solution will be built on the HERE platform, leveraging advanced routing services and truck-specific data.
This deepened partnership reflects both companies’ shared commitment to delivering innovative transport solutions tailored to the needs of commercial vehicle and fleet operators globally. By combining HERE’s location intelligence with EROAD’s operational expertise, the partnership aims to improve delivery accuracy, simplify route planning, and elevate the day-to-day experience for both drivers and fleet managers.
Built for Fleets, Designed for Drivers
EROAD’s new vehicle-aware navigation application draws on key capabilities from HERE WeGo Pro, a mobile-first, professional-grade application that transforms centrally planned routes into real-time, turn-by-turn guidance. Designed specifically for commercial fleets, the new solution offers:
· Truck-specific routing that considers vehicle dimensions, cargo type and road restrictions.
· Real-time traffic updates are refreshed every five minutes across the entire road network.
· Multi-stop tour planning and predictive ETAs for SLA-compliant deliveries.
· Offline functionality for uninterrupted service in remote areas.
· Driver-centric design that reduces stress and supports retention.
“Our partnership with EROAD is critical in shaping the future of truck-specific navigation in the region,” said Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific at HERE Technologies. “With the HERE platform at its core, the vehicle-aware navigation application enables fleets to gain real-time insights, optimised truck routes, and critical alerts to prevent incidents like bridge strikes. It also helps operators remain compliant with road regulations, avoid costly fines and reduce operational risks. This level of intelligent navigation empowers fleets to operate more efficiently while enhancing safety and elevating the driver experience.”
Growing Demand in Oceania for Smarter, Connected Vehicle Technologies
The launch comes at a critical time for Australia and New Zealand’s transport and logistics sector. According to a recent report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the installed base of fleet management systems in ANZ is projected to reach 2.7 million units by 2028¹, reflecting the growing demand for smarter, more connected vehicle technologies.
Meanwhile, the industry faces mounting pressure from a looming driver shortage. A report by The International Road Transport Union highlights that 47% of Australia’s truck drivers are over the age of 55, with more than 21% expected to retire by 2029². The country is already short nearly 28,000 heavy vehicle drivers, underscoring the urgent need for tools that can support both new and experienced drivers on the road.
“Oceania’s transport and logistics sector is under immense pressure - from driver shortages to rising delivery demands and increasingly complex compliance requirements,” said Mark Davidson, Chief Product Officer at EROAD. “With our expanded partnership with HERE, we’re equipping our customers with a solution that not only helps them navigate these challenges, but also positions them to operate more safely, efficiently, and competitively in a rapidly evolving market.”
To learn more about HERE’s truck-optimised navigation capabilities, visit https://www.here.com/products/wego-pro
Media Contacts
EROAD
Rich Llewellyn
027 523 2362
richard@shanahan.nz
HERE Technologies
Vanessa Lee
+65 9188 6199
Vanessa.lee@here.com
About EROAD
EROAD (NZX/ASX: ERD) is a hardware-enabled SaaS company delivering safety, compliance, sustainability and efficiency solutions for complex fleets.
Its connected platform is used by commercial and government operators across New Zealand, Australia and North America to manage vehicles, assets and drivers with greater visibility and control. EROAD supports demanding, highly regulated fleet operations, including those moving food, concrete and aggregates, enabling them to operate smarter, safer and more sustainably. EROAD’s platform is built on a foundation of regulatory expertise, having delivered the world’s first GPS-based road user charging system in New Zealand, where it remains the market leader today.
About HERE Technologies
HERE has been a pioneer in mapping and location technology for 40 years. Today, HERE’s location platform is recognized as the most complete in the industry, powering location-based products, services and custom maps for organizations and enterprises across the globe. From autonomous driving and seamless logistics to new mobility experiences, HERE allows its partners and customers to innovate while retaining control over their data and safeguarding privacy. Find out how HERE is moving the world forward at here.com.
¹Fleet Management in Australia and New Zealand - 9th Edition
²Global Truck Driver Shortage Report 2024
Attachment
· HERE and EROAD Deepen Collaboration to Transform Trucking in Australia and New Zealand
SOURCE: HERE Europe B.V.
--BERNAMA
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