WISSON ROBOTICS UNVEILS GAME-CHANGING SOFT ROBOTICS AT CES 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- Wisson Robotics drew significant attention at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, with live demonstrations of its cutting-edge soft robotics and applications built on Pliabot technology.

These demos highlighted robots featuring Pliabot muscles, joints, and arms, showcasing the technology’s key strengths and capabilities. Pliabot technology replicates human muscle functions, providing superior adaptability and cost-effectiveness—two key challenges in large-scale robotic adoption.

In a statement, the company said these innovations leveraged the company’s proprietary Pliabot technology, which "Emulate Human Muscles, Transcend Human Capabilities".

The Pliabot technology offers five core benefits, including a high load-to-weight ratio, resistance to harsh environments, superior task adaptability, enhanced safety in human interaction, and a significant cost advantage through the use of polymer-based soft materials and 3D printing.

Wisson Robotics has also introduced several Pliabot-powered products for diverse applications, including the Orion AP3-P3 Pliabot Aerial Tethered Cleaning System, which uses adaptive balancing and soft collision buffering for high-altitude cleaning, and the Orion AP30-N1 Pliabot Aerial Manipulator, which enhances drone capabilities for precise aerial tasks.

Additionally, the Pliabot Automatic Charging Robot offers significant cost and performance benefits, making it ideal for large-scale deployment. It provides a powerful boost to the smart driving experience and the rapid development of the electric vehicle industry.

These groundbreaking innovations highlight Wisson Robotics’ vision of empowering industries and everyday life through cutting-edge soft robotics, offering safer, smarter, and more efficient solutions.

-- BERNAMA

MFPC'S PITA TEH TARIK SESSION WITH THE INSURANCE AND TAKAFUL INDUSTRY 2025

MFPC's PITA Teh Tarik Session 2025 brings together CEOs of LIAM, Aii, MTA, and 23 ITOs for meaningful discussions and networking.

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC) has successfully hosted the PITA Teh Tarik Session on 8 January 2025. The event was held at the secretariat’s office, which brought together over 40 key industry representatives, including esteemed organisations such as the Asian Institute of Insurance (Aii), Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM), Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA), and 23 Insurance Companies and Takaful Operators (ITOs).

For an introduction, the Professionalism of Insurance and Takaful Agents (PITA) programme, led by MFPC and aligned with Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) regulatory requirements, aims to enhance the professionalism and advisory capabilities of insurance and takaful agents in Malaysia. Through MFPC's certifications, such as RFP Module 2 and Shariah RFP Module 2, PITA equips agents with essential risk management and financial planning competencies, with a strong focus on insurance and takaful practices.

The session started with Mr. Andy Ng, MFPC President, welcoming all participants and expressing gratitude for their attendance. He highlighted MFPC’s commitment to upholding BNM’s regulatory standards and reaffirmed the council’s dedication to collaboration, professionalism, and achieving a brighter future for the industry and Malaysian public.

The session continued with a comprehensive PITA update by our Executive Director, Ms. Chung Kar Yin, which highlighted the Council’s approval of unlimited free resits for the PITA examination. This initiative, effective from 9 January to 31 December 2025, aims to alleviate test anxiety, promote equitable access, and encourage continuous learning among practiced agents.

Mr. Anthony Ang, Chairman of MFPC Certification and CPD Board, then moderated an interactive Q&A discussion to address challenges in programme implementation by ITOs. The event concluded with a delightful lunch, providing ample opportunities for meaningful networking.

MFPC would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed guests—Mr. Paul Low, CEO of Aii; Mr. Mark O'Dell, CEO of LIAM; and Mr. Mohd Radzuan Mohamed, CEO of MTA—for honouring us with their presence and support. Our sincere appreciation also goes to all the ITOs representatives whose participation and valuable contributions were instrumental in making the session a success.

About Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC)
Established in 2004, MFPC is dedicated to advancing the financial planning profession in Malaysia. Providing recognized financial planning qualifications, including Registered Financial Planner (RFP) and Shariah RFP, MFPC ensures adherence to high professionalism standards through Best Practice Standards and a Code of Ethics. The council actively addresses financial literacy issues with initiatives like "My Money and Me" workshops, contributing to the nation's progress through financial empowerment. Recognized with prestigious awards, MFPC reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation

Our website: www.mfpc.org.my

SOURCE: Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Mohd Farhan Azizan
External Relations, Research and Publication
Malaysian Financial Planning Council
Tel: +6 019 2773521
Email: farhan@mfpc.org.my

--BERNAMA

Essence Of South China Medicine Transcends Healing In Yunfu

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- South China Medicine plays a significant role in the traditional Chinese medicine industry, and the 4th Guangdong South China Medicine Industry Conference, taking place in Yunfu, Guangdong province, from Jan 4 to 6, aims to promote this heritage both nationally and internationally.

Yunfu, known for its long history of South China Medicine cultivation and its rich cultural legacy, is often referred to as "the hometown of South China Medicine", "the hometown of Chinese cinnamon", and "the hometown of traditional Chinese medicine processing".

As the largest cinnamon-producing area in China, Yunfu is up to the task of establishing the Germplasm Resource Bank for Traditional Chinese Medicine at the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (CACMS).

According to a statement, the area is home to 1,152 species of medicinal plants, of which 58 are planted on a large scale, with a planting area of more than 900 square kilometres, forming thriving industrial clusters.

In Yunfu, the breeding, cultivation, processing, and extraction of South China Medicine proceed in a coordinated way, whereby over 100 million high-quality seedlings, such as Evodia lepta, are being cultivated annually and sold throughout the country.

Supported by 143 planting demonstration bases, 110 processing enterprises, and 10 customised medicinal plantations with traceable quality, Yunfu creates an extraordinary journey for the transformation of South China Medicine.

Leveraging resource advantages like South China Medicine, forests, and hot springs, Yunfu is also expanding the cultural tourism and wellness industry chain, introducing derivative health foods and healthcare products.

-- BERNAMA

PETRONAS PARTNERSHIP POISED TO UNLOCK MALAY BASIN'S FULL POTENTIAL

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS, through Malaysia Petroleum Management (MPM), in collaboration with Beicip Franlab Asia, has embarked on an Integrated Basin Study to explore untapped resources in the Malay Basin, located off the coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
The study leverages advanced 4D modeling and machine learning technologies to analyse the subsurface architecture at both basin and reservoir scales. It also focuses on predicting hydrocarbon migration and entrapment by harnessing big data from the Malay Basin.

Since the 1970s, the Malay Basin has produced over nine billion barrels of oil equivalent, earning its status as a “super basin”. Recent exploration activities have uncovered significant new discoveries, highlighting the basin’s continued potential. Beyond hydrocarbons, the basin presents substantial opportunities for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), positioning it as a key player in sustainable energy development.

Senior General Manager Resource Exploration of MPM, Azmir Zamri said, “The Malay Basin, often regarded as mature, still holds significant untapped potential, as demonstrated by discoveries such as Bunga Aster and Bekok Deep. Through our collaboration with Beicip Franlab Asia on the Integrated Basin Study and our AI-enabled geophysical initiatives with Earth Science Analytics, we aim to redefine what is possible and unlock new opportunities in this prolific region.”

PETRONAS remains committed to ensuring an optimal and sustainable energy supply, with MPM playing a crucial role in managing petroleum arrangements and overseeing upstream petroleum activities in Malaysia.

For more information on investment opportunities in Malaysia, please visit https://www.petronas.com/mpm/

Issued by

Media Communications
Group Strategic Relations and Communications
PETRONAS

SOURCE: PETRONAS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Janette Boniface Barau
Tel: +6012-890 0241
Email: janette.barau@petronas.com.my

Name: Nabil Basaruddin
Tel: +6 012 4249 750
Email: nabil.basaruddin@petronas.com.my

--BERNAMA

MPMA CHAMPIONS RESPONSIBLE PLASTICS USE AND WASTE MANAGEMENT IN RESPONSE TO SELANGOR'S EXPANDED PLASTIC BAG BAN

Mr CC Cheah, President, Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA)

PETALING JAYA, Selangor, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) welcomes the Selangor state government’s decision to expand the plastic bag ban as a crucial step towards promoting more sustainable consumer practices.

MPMA President, Mr CC Cheah, expressed his support for the move, saying, "The expansion of the plastic bag ban encourages consumers to adopt using reusable alternatives as carrier bags. On days which the ban is not implemented, we support the continuation of the 20-cent levy as it serves as a practical tool to support this shift in consumer behaviour and provides flexibility for those who may still require plastic carrier bags.”

To further promote reuse, MPMA encourages plastic bag manufacturers to print messages such as “Reuse me as a garbage bin liner” on plastic carrier bags. By reusing carrier bags for waste disposal, consumers can maximise the utility of the bags they pay for, thereby reducing unnecessary purchase of plastic garbage bags for waste disposal.

Malaysians commonly use plastic bags to contain and dispose of waste, which makes them easily visible in landfills. However, their contribution by weight is negligible and their inert property means they do not cause contamination to the landfills. Although a plastic bag ban could reduce its usage among consumers, additional measures such as the effective implementation of waste separation at source (SAS) and improving the collected-for-recycling (CFR) rate are crucial to divert plastics waste from landfills and direct it to recycling facilities.

MPMA continues to support its members in exploring sustainable alternatives, including bio-based and compostable bags. These materials provide new avenues for managing waste in an environmentally friendly manner. However, stakeholders and authorities are encouraged to understand the differences between these materials, particularly their degradation mechanisms and applications. This knowledge is essential for facilitating effective waste separation and disposal for these types of materials. Not to forget that most alternatives have a higher carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics, an environmental trade-off to be made while opting for alternative materials.

Additionally, it is important to note that alternatives are not a complete solution, as they often lack the beneficial properties of plastics, which remain a reliable and versatile material, especially for specific applications such as wet market goods and hawker food. Plastic bags remain convenient for certain applications due to their characteristics and cost-effectiveness, making them necessary for consumers. MPMA therefore would like to call for the ban to not be extended to wet and night markets.

To fully embrace sustainable consumer practices and to promote its adoption among the public, MPMA is dedicated to raising awareness on this shift and advocating for improvements in waste collection and disposal systems. By strengthening waste management infrastructure and policies as well as enhancing public education, we can significantly reduce the environmental impact of plastics.

“Efforts should focus on developing efficient collection systems and recycling facilities to manage plastics waste responsibly,” Mr Cheah added. “Together with the extension of plastic bag ban, these efforts can contribute towards a cleaner and more sustainable environment.”

MPMA is actively driving the "Don't Be a Litterbug" campaign, aimed at combating littering and promoting responsible waste disposal. The campaign, launched during events such as Thaipusam, marathons and Ramadan bazaars, integrate the provision of waste bins with public education on proper waste separation. As part of its ongoing commitment, MPMA is dedicated to collaborating with the government, industry and community to develop practical strategies that promote sustainable plastics use and effective waste management.

About Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA)
The Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA), established in 1967, is a progressive trade association providing leadership and quality service to its members and the plastics industry. MPMA is a non-profit organisation that serves as the official voice of the Malaysian plastics industry, representing its members and the industry in Government interaction, spearheading the plastics industry’s growth by providing the platforms to assist members to be globally competitive.

MPMA’s current emphasis, inter alia, is to upgrade the technological level of the plastics industry by providing higher technical skills for members, in particular, on Industry 4.0. In all aspects of its activities, MPMA places special attention to its social responsibility towards the environment, by promoting sustainability practices for the protection of the environment and the community.

MPMA currently has about 800 members, which represent about 60 percent of the plastics manufacturers in the country and account for 80 percent of the country’s total production of plastics products.

SOURCE: Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ms Crystal Cheah
Tel: +03 7876 3027
Email: crystal@mpma.org.my
Website: http://mpma.org.my/

--BERNAMA

LAUNCH OF VISIT MALAYSIA 2026 CAMPAIGN: A MILESTONE FOR TOURISM GROWTH

 

Official Launch Ceremony of VM2026 Campaign Song and Logo by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister.

SEPANG, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysia proudly launched the highly anticipated Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign today in a spectacular event held at Hangar 6, MAB Engineering Complex. The event was officiated by the Prime Minister, YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, unveiling the campaign’s logo, mascot, theme song, and aircraft livery.

The VM2026 logo, is a symbol of Malaysia’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and global appeal, serves as a visual reminder of the country’s readiness to welcome tourists worldwide. The logo was creatively unveiled on the aircrafts of Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, and AirAsia. This marks the first time that these airlines will proudly display the logo as part of their aircraft designs, symbolising a united front in promoting tourism and generating excitement for the transformative year ahead.

The event also premiered the official VM2026 theme song, titled Surreal Experiences which captures the essence of Malaysia’s unique offerings. This song will be a key component of the campaign to attract global attention and engage visitors with the enchanting experiences Malaysia has to offer.

In addition, the Malayan Sun Bear, a proud endangered species and a symbol of Malaysia’s commitment to wildlife conservation, has been adopted as the official icon for the campaign. Designed in a lovable, animated style, the Malayan Sun Bear aims to appeal to all ages, evoking a sense of warmth and joy, and further enhancing Malaysia’s image as a welcoming destination for tourists.

The event was attended by key representatives from various ministries, reflecting the national importance of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. As part of Malaysia's broader National Agenda, VM2026 aims to increase tourism revenue, strengthen Malaysia’s global tourism competitiveness, and ultimately position the sector as one of the largest contributors to the country’s GDP. With Malaysia’s strong potential as a world-class tourist destination, VM2026 is set to not only boost tourism but also create jobs and enhance the country's global image and bringing prosperity to communities, enriching local cultures, and fostering growth in sectors beyond tourism – including hospitality, transport, retail, and food industries.

Malayan Sun Bear, as the mascot for Visit Malaysia 2026 Campaign.

The event also featured the exchange of Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) with key strategic partners, including Malaysia Aviation Group, AirAsia, Batik Air, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, Huawei, Mastercard, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), and The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH). These partnerships aim to enhance connectivity, expand marketing campaigns, and deliver exceptional visitor experiences through innovative technologies, seamless travel experiences, and exclusive promotional offers.

As part of the build-up to VM2026, the Malaysia Sarong Music Run (MSMR) 2025 will be held on 8 February 2025 at the Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur. This unique cultural and fitness event, endorsed by Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is expected to attract over 20,000 participants.

A celebration of Malaysia’s heritage while promoting a healthy lifestyle, MSMR 2025 is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture and will feature collaborations with Locco, known for the Keretapi Sarong, showcasing Malaysia’s multicultural harmony.

With an ambitious goal to welcome 35.6 million international visitors and generate RM147.1 billion in tourism receipts, VM2026 marks a significant chapter in Malaysia’s tourism journey. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, led by YB Dato' Sri Tiong King Sing, is committed to making VM2026 a memorable and impactful campaign.

About Visit Malaysia Year 2026
Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) is a national initiative launched by the Government of Malaysia to drive the country's tourism sector toward greater economic impact. Aiming to attract millions of visitors, VM2026 will feature a series of events, promotions, and developments that celebrate Malaysia’s culture, heritage, and tourism offerings. The initiative is set to strengthen Malaysia’s global tourism competitiveness and make tourism a key contributor to the national economy.

About Tourism Malaysia
Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, also known as Tourism Malaysia, is an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia. It focuses on the specific task of promoting Malaysia as a preferred tourism destination. Since its inception, it has emerged as a major player in the international tourism scene. For more information, visit Tourism Malaysia’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok.

SOURCE: Visit Malaysia Year 2026

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Zurina Abd. Samad
Senior Deputy Director
Visit Malaysia 2026 Secretariat
Tel: +603 8891 8224
Email: zurina@tourism.gov.my

Name: Norshariza Mohd Saad
Deputy Director
Corporate Communications Division
Tel: +603 8891 8775
Email: norshariza@tourism.gov.my

--BERNAMA

KK GROUP EXPANDS RAPIDLY IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

KKV Malaysia Flagship Store at Bukit Bintang (Photo: Business Wire)

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- KK Group, a China-based trend retailer has accelerated its expansion across Southeast Asia, entering four countries last year with its lifestyle brand, KKV and makeup brand, The Colorist.

Embarked on an ambitious expansion in 2024, the company in a statement said it operates more than 1,000 stores in over 200 cities across China.

Known for its “good to shop, good to play, and good-looking” brand concept, KKV led the charge in this international expansion in Southeast Asia at an unprecedented pace, entering one new country every month.

The brand established a strong presence in Malaysia early last year, followed by Thailand in October, Vietnam in November, and the Philippines in December, while The Colorist’s first overseas store was opened in Malaysia in December.

This rapid growth underscores KK Group’s strategic focus and capability to quickly penetrate new markets, and its presence in Southeast Asia has approached 30 stores, including KKV and The Colorist brands, as of December last year.

Looking ahead, the group has set ambitious goals with its pop culture brand, X11, estimated to make its debut in Southeast Asia in 2025, and it plans to enter the Singapore market in the first half of this year.

As the number of stores under its three flagship brands, namely KKV, The Colorist, and X11, continues to grow, KK Group’s ability to adapt its product structure to local consumer preferences, maintain stable store operations, and ensure the profitability of individual stores will depend on continuous research and strategic exploration by the international team.

Beyond Southeast Asia, the team is also conducting comprehensive research to explore opportunities and drive new breakthroughs in regional development.

KK Group is committed to enhancing consumer loyalty through respecting local cultures, understanding local markets, optimising product structure, and strengthening partnerships with local partners.

-- BERNAMA

Nikkiso CE&IG Group Strengthens Leadership Team With Jeff Mumford’s Promotion

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 3 (Bernama) -- Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group (CE&IG), part of Nikkiso Co Ltd’s Industrial Business segment, has appointed Jeff Mumford as its new Executive Vice President of Operations and Manufacturing, effective Jan 2.

In this role, Mumford will oversee global operations and manufacturing as well as managing corporate departments including information technology (IT), Facilities, Safety Health Environmental and Quality (SHEQ), and Project Management.

Nikkiso CE&IG Group President and Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Ridge in a statement said Mumford’s leadership and dedication to continuous improvement have been proven throughout his career, and is recognised for his ability to drive transformational change while maintaining focus on growing the business.

Mumford joined Nikkiso in 2016 as a project manager and has since been promoted several times into leadership roles, including Procurement Director, Project Management Director and General Manager at the group’s Las Vegas operations.

During his tenure at Nikkiso, Mumford has successfully implemented efficiencies and contributed to business growth.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Literature and Linguistics from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is a certified Project Management Professional.

A provider of cryogenic equipment and solutions worldwide, the group is headed by Cryogenic Industries Inc in Southern California, United States, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nikkiso Co Ltd.

-- BERNAMA

AHF CALLS ON ASEAN TO TAKE LEADERSHIP IN COMBATTING HIV/AIDS IN APAC

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 2 (Bernama) -- AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), a global non-profit provider of HIV/AIDS medical care, has urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to lead the fight in ending AIDS as a public health threat in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

Having served over 400,000 clients across 10 APAC countries, AHF in a statement said it is eager to contribute its expertise to support ASEAN’s ambitious goals.

AHF President, Michael Weinstein emphasised that ASEAN's efforts could significantly impact the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

“By building partnerships with governments, civil society, and international agencies—and focusing on community-based approaches—ASEAN can demonstrate that ending AIDS as a public health threat is within reach.

“This progress would save lives, reduce healthcare costs, boost workforce productivity, and strengthen communities, while setting an example for other regions to follow,” he said.

Meanwhile, AHF Asia Bureau Chief, Dr Chhim Sarath expressed pride in the organisation’s collaborations with the majority of ASEAN countries and their civil society organisations (CSOs).

“As we welcome the New Year, we urge ASEAN and its member states to enhance collaboration and establish robust mechanisms to develop a ‘Road Map to End AIDS in the ASEAN Region’, with active engagement from CSOs like AHF,” added Dr Sarath.

AHF proposes working through platforms such as the ASEAN GO-NGOs Forum to promote collaboration, address inequalities, eliminate stigma and discrimination, and ensure access to the prevention and treatment of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

The non-profit organisation provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over two million people in 48 countries worldwide, including the United States, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region, and Europe.

-- BERNAMA