PETRONAS AND MICROSOFT EXPAND COLLABORATION TO SUPPORT MALAYSIA’S AI ECOSYSTEM

Photo caption: Ir Ts Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof, PETRONAS’ Senior Vice President of Projects, Technology & Health, Safety, Security & Environment (PT&HSSE) delivering his opening remarks at the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony.

He says, “Our collaboration with Microsoft is driven by a shared commitment to meaningful innovation and sustainable progress. By harnessing our joint expertise in innovation and sustainability, we are steadfast in advancing adoption of AI and Cloud capabilities in a manner that promotes sustainable energy practices, in support of Malaysia’s aspirations of building an AI economy with a robust ecosystem in which everyone thrives.”

KUALA LUMPUR, 31 July (Bernama) -- PETRONAS and Microsoft signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), further extending their strategic collaboration in multiple areas across innovation and sustainability to support the development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled economy and ecosystem in Malaysia, while advancing efforts toward energy transition in Asia.

At the signing ceremony held on the sidelines of Energy Asia 2025, PETRONAS was represented by its Senior Vice President of Projects, Technology & Health, Safety, Security & Environment (PT&HSSE), Ir Ts Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof and Vice President of Group Technology & Commercialisation, Izwan Ismail. Microsoft Malaysia was represented by its Managing Director, Laurence Si.

Ir Ts Mohd Yusri said, “At PETRONAS, innovation goes beyond technology – it is about shaping a future where energy is smarter, cleaner, and sustainable for not only the organisations involved, but also the nation and its people.

“Our collaboration with Microsoft is driven by a shared commitment to meaningful innovation and sustainable progress. By harnessing our joint expertise in innovation and sustainability, we are steadfast in advancing adoption of AI and Cloud capabilities in a manner that promotes sustainable energy practices, in support of Malaysia’s aspirations of building an AI economy with a robust ecosystem in which everyone thrives,” he added.

Si said, “As a trusted technology partner to PETRONAS, we are thrilled to strengthen our collaboration to help advance their digital and AI transformation. With Microsoft’s new cloud region in Malaysia, we are committed to supporting PETRONAS with secure, scalable, and sustainable cloud solutions that will drive growth and innovation in Malaysia’s energy sector.”

The collaboration will focus on fostering an ecosystem in Malaysia that enables organisations to harness AI's potential for economic advancement and societal benefit. With nation building at heart, the companies will support Malaysia’s efforts to build regional leadership in AI capabilities and develop a strong local AI ecosystem through joint programmes.

Under the collaboration, PETRONAS and Microsoft will explore further initiatives to intensify AI and energy innovation leveraging Microsoft’s newly launched Malaysia West cloud region. They will look into entrenching Agentic AI, Microsoft Copilot, data analytics, cloud computing and cybersecurity among other technologies, to unlock new levels of operational efficiency and sustainability performance across its value chain.

The parties will also explore a holistic collaboration across industries to promote sustainable energy and policy alignment.

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

AmFIRST REIT Continues To Deliver Improved Performance Driven by Strong Growth in Occupancy

KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 (Bernama) -- AmREIT Managers Sdn Bhd (“AmREIT”), the Manager of AmFIRST Real Estate Investment Trust (“AmFIRST REIT” or the “Trust”) announced improved financial performance for the first quarter of the current financial year, underpinned by higher rental income from improved portfolio occupancy and higher carpark income. Additionally, a one-off compensation received for waiver of reinstatement liability has also contributed to the improved gross revenue.

Key Financial Highlights for 1Q FY2026:

· Gross Revenue: RM27.0 million, up 7.6% quarter-on-quarter.
· Net Property Income: RM16.2 million, an increase of 17.3% from the preceding quarter.
· Realised Earnings Per Unit: 0.75 sen per unit, up 47% quarter-on -quarter.

Portfolio occupancy continued to strengthen during the current quarter, with notable improvements in occupancy rates at Menara AmBank, Wisma AmFIRST, Prima 9 and Jaya 99 attributed to multiple new tenancies secured during the current financial quarter. These new tenancies secured during this quarter have lifted the overall committed portfolio occupancy by 4.1% from 84.7% as at 31 March 2025 to 88.8% as at 30 June 2025, providing sustained rental income growth in the coming years.

Property expenses were slightly higher mainly due to higher repair and maintenance costs, as well as increase in assessment charges. However, this increase was partially mitigated by lower electricity expenses.

Finance costs saw a marginal decline of 0.5% compared to the corresponding period of last financial year, supported by lower average cost of borrowings. The recent 25 basis points cut in the Overnight Policy Rate by Bank Negara Malaysia is expected to further reduce interest expenses. With 67% of the Trust’s borrowings are subject to floating rates, it is estimating the interest saving of approximately RM1.3 million per annum from every 25 basis points reduction in the cost of debt. This favorable rate environment expects to enhance the Trust’s earning resilience.

Overall, the realised net income from operations rose significantly by 45.4% to RM5.1 million, compared to RM3.5 million in the same quarter of the previous financial year.

Looking ahead, the Manager aims to further enhance the performance of the Trust’s asset portfolio by driving revenue growth and optimising operational costs, to increase the asset portfolio’s yield for higher income distribution to the Unitholders. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Manager remains cautiously optimistic that the Trust will deliver improved performance for the remainder of the financial year, supported by higher occupancy rates and ongoing operational efficiencies.

About AmFIRST REIT

Listed on 21 December 2006, AmFIRST REIT currently owns eight (8) properties valued at RM1.57 billion. These include Bangunan AmBank Group, Menara AmBank, Wisma AmFIRST, The Summit Subang USJ, Prima 9, Prima 10, Jaya 99 and Mydin Hypermall, Bukit Mertajam. The Trust focuses on investing in incomeproducing real estate which are primarily for commercial use. AmFIRST REIT is managed by AmREIT Managers Sdn Bhd.

​For more information, please visit AmFIRST REIT’s website at https://www.amfirstreit.com.my.

SOURCE: AmBank Group

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Mr Chong Hong Chuon
Chief Executive Officer
Tel: 03-7955 8780

--BERNAMA

NO COMPROMISE AS ENCORP 2025 INTEGRITY DAY SPARKS HONEST CONVERSATIONS ON ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Photo 1: Chairman of ENCORP, Mohd Yusmadi Bin Mohd Yusoff, with PPj Tan Li Chu from the MACC during ENCORP Integrity Day 2025.

KOTA DAMANSARA, July 30 (Bernama) -- Encorp Berhad (ENCORP) recently reaffirmed its commitment to ethical leadership and good governance through ENCORP Integrity Day 2025, signalling a clear message of zero tolerance towards misconduct and a renewed push for stronger governance.

The event was officiated by PPj Tan Li Chu, Head of GLC Section, Private Sector Branch, Community Education Division of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and attended by Mohd Yusmadi Bin Mohd Yusoff, Chairman of ENCORP; Ahmad Harzimi bin Mohd Taib, Group Chief Executive Officer of ENCORP, along with newly appointed Independent Non-Executive Director of Encorp Berhad, Dr Wan Ahmad Rudirman Bin Wan Razak. Also present were representatives from FELDA Investment Corporation, as well as project consultants and contractors, reflecting a strong and collective commitment to upholding integrity across all levels of the industry.

ENCORP Integrity Day 2025 went beyond symbolic gesture. It serves as a platform to strengthen internal culture, reinforce ethical standards and engage employees in open, values-driven conversations. A key segment of the programme was the Anti-Bribery Management System briefing delivered by Encik Arman Idzmy Omar, Assistant General Manager of the Risk, Governance and Integrity Unit. The session highlighted ENCORP’s proactive stance in institutionalising anti-bribery controls and compliance mechanisms across its operations as well as reflecting the company’s serious, system-wide approach to integrity.

In his welcoming remarks, Mohd Yusmadi Mohd Yusoff stated, “Integrity is not negotiable. It must live in every decision, every process and every person. We are setting a clear tone at ENCORP. One that reflects responsibility, vigilance and leadership by example.”

He added, “Integrity is not a standalone principle, it thrives when embraced collectively, through muafakat. A values-driven culture cannot be for show. It takes real commitment and the courage to do what’s right, even when no one is watching. At ENCORP, we are not just talking about ethics, we are living it.”

PPj Tan Li Chu, in her keynote speech, commended ENCORP’s commitment to enhancing governance culture and encouraged the private sector to continue playing a leading role in advancing the nation’s anti-corruption goals. She added, “ENCORP’S retail shopping mall, Strand Mall, is the first mall in Malaysia to collaborate with MACC in holding the Corruption- Free Pledge (Ikrar Bebas Rasuah) ceremony, marking a key milestone in the retail and property development sector’s integrity journey.”

The event concluded with the Corruption-Free Pledge recited by all ENCORP employees symbolising a clear and united affirmation that the organisation is moving forward with stronger principles, cleaner practices and a zero-tolerance approach to misconduct. Prior to the event, ENCORP hosted a two-day Integrity Workshop, where employees from all levels participated in hands-on sessions, further demonstrating ENCORP’s commitment to embedding integrity not just in policy, but in daily practice.

About Encorp Berhad
Listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia (Ticker: ENCORP/6076), ENCORP is principally an investment-holding company. The Group is currently involved in three core businesses – property development, property investment and construction. For more information, visit www.encorp.com.my or follow us on facebook: @encorpbhd

SOURCE: Encorp Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Saidah Umairah
Tel: 03 6286 7777
Email: umairah@encorp.com.my

--BERNAMA

DATAVAULT AI EXPANDS COMMERCIALISATION OF FLAGSHIP AI AGENTS VIA IBM COLLABORATION

KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Bernama) -- Datavault AI Inc, a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) data experience, valuation, and monetisation, has announced the expanded commercialisation of its flagship AI agents, DataScore and DataValue, developed in partnership with IBM’s watsonx.ai platform.

In a statement, the company said IBM will provide multi-year support, including AI engineering resources and deep technical expertise, to help accelerate the deployment and impact of Datavault’s offerings across enterprise environments, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid systems.

Datavault AI, a Platinum partner in IBM’s Partner Plus programme, aims to broaden AI adoption across key sectors such as finance, healthcare, sports, entertainment, and government, with joint initiatives covering deployment, testing, and development.

“This marks a major milestone in our enterprise-scale roadmap. By integrating IBM watsonx at a technical level and collaborating closely with IBM, we are positioned to scale our data monetisation platform globally,” said Datavault AI Chief Executive Officer, Nathaniel Bradley.

Meanwhile, IBM Head of Americas AI Partnerships, Biz Dziarmaga said the collaboration with Datavault AI offers customers a scalable pathway to data monetisation, supporting enterprises in unlocking new revenue streams through AI-driven platforms.

As part of the collaboration, Datavault AI will work with IBM’s sales force and partner network to expand customer engagement and adoption of its patented AI solutions.

According to McKinsey & Company, generative AI is projected to contribute between US$2.6 trillion and US$4.4 trillion annually across key business functions, underscoring the rising importance of AI-powered data monetisation in the enterprise technology landscape. (US$1=RM4.23)

Datavault AI has developed a fully integrated AI ecosystem to help organisations unlock the financial value of their data assets. Among its core offerings is Data Vault Bank, a Web 3.0-powered AI engine currently being built with IBM, which will convert enterprise data into structured, tradable assets and is expected to be launched in October 2025.

The company’s DataScore product is a patented, AI-driven scoring and risk analysis tool designed to assess data quality and ensure compliance with key regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

Meanwhile, DataValue is a patented pricing engine that uses AI to assign real-world financial valuations to enterprise data, thereby creating new liquidity and trading opportunities.

Datavault AI’s Web 3.0 data platform, enhanced through completed system integrations, allows for secure, compliant, and scalable monetisation across industries. The platform continues to evolve with new advancements in data indexing, perception, and valuation technologies.

-- BERNAMA

AIRWALLEX SECURES CMS LICENCE, LAUNCHES INVESTMENT PRODUCT FOR SINGAPORE BUSINESSES

KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Bernama) -- Airwallex has clinched a Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), paving the way for its latest offering, Airwallex Yield, to launch in the city-state.

With this licence, fintech firms can now offer regulated investment solutions and custodial services to businesses in Singapore through its Airwallex Yield product.

Airwallex General Manager, Asia Pacific, Arnold Chan said this milestone lets us help Singapore businesses better manage cash and seize growth opportunities.

"This is a proud moment for us, and we are grateful to the MAS for their support and trust in our vision," he said in a statement.

The Airwallex Yield allows businesses to invest surplus funds in high-quality money market instruments, earning returns while maintaining full liquidity.

Companies can now grow multi-currency reserves without opening additional accounts and shift funds between cash and Yield accounts on demand.

Meanwhile, Airwallex Capital (Singapore) Executive Director, Gary Harvey said the product aims to simplify cash management and put idle funds to work for companies of all sizes.

Airwallex Capital is teaming up with Fullerton Fund Management to manage its Singapore dollar investment strategy and Goldman Sachs Asset Management for its US dollar solution, tapping institutional-grade expertise.

The launch of Airwallex Yield in Singapore follows successful rollouts in Australia and Hong Kong, reinforcing Airwallex’s strategy to shape the future of global finance, empowering companies to grow faster, smarter, and on their own terms.

-- BERNAMA

HONG KONG GOES WILD FOR PANDA TWINS’ FIRST BIRTHDAY BASH

KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Bernama) -- Hong Kong is set to mark the first birthday of its beloved panda twins, Jia Jia and De De, with a citywide celebration featuring themed attractions, exclusive collectibles, and entertainment events throughout August.

Born on Aug 15, 2024, to resident giant pandas Ying Ying and Le Le at Ocean Park, the twin cubs have become an instant favourite among locals and international visitors, drawing widespread attention since their debut.

To commemorate the occasion, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and Ocean Park have collaborated with artist Kasing Lung, creator of the LABUBU character, to launch a special birthday-edition LABUBU x Panda Twins vinyl toy.

The limited-edition collectible features a bamboo-green LABUBU in a polka-dotted birthday hat holding the panda twins and comes with a custom gift box and a handcrafted birthday card by the artist, according to HKTB in a statement.

Visitors to Ocean Park between Aug 1 and 31 may participate in a lucky draw for a chance to win one of 300 birthday gift boxes, with additional giveaways planned during the main birthday celebration period from Aug 15 to 17.

Throughout summer, Ocean Park will be the centre of festivities with the “Panda Friends Summer Splash” event, which includes themed water attractions, photo zones, games, and giveaways featuring LINE FRIENDS characters and panda-themed decor.

Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Ball Pit Party, Water Battle Zone, and Panda Friends Splash Playground, while panda badges, party hats, and other souvenirs will be distributed across the park.

The celebration will also feature the Gala of Lights – Panda Birthday Edition, a nighttime spectacle of projections, dancing fountains, and music, alongside surprise gifts for visitors attending during the key celebration dates.

Exclusive merchandise, including plushies of Jia Jia and De De in kindergarten uniforms, themed snacks, and special ticket bundles such as the “Twin Park Package Ticket”, are also available for fans and tourists.

Beyond Ocean Park, panda-themed installations are appearing across Hong Kong, including creative MTR station takeovers and 32 panda-inspired road signs, extending the celebration throughout the city.

-- BERNAMA

FACIA Reports 100% Accuracy in Deepfake Detection Across Industry Datasets

LONDON, July 23 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FACIA, a global leader in facial biometric technology, announced that its deepfake detection system has achieved 100% accuracy on multiple industry datasets, including Meta’s Deepfake Detection Challenge Dataset (DFDC). FACIA’s proprietary algorithm was tested across more than 100,000 images and videos, reporting an overall detection accuracy of 99.6%.

The announcement comes amid growing global concern over synthetic media. In 2023 alone, the number of deepfake videos tripled, with total deepfake content increasing eightfold. These manipulated assets are now widely used in fraud schemes, misinformation campaigns, and non-consensual content creation, prompting regulatory responses worldwide.

FACIA’s model delivered perfect classification on the DFDC dataset, which includes 2,100 manipulated videos using eight different facial alteration techniques. Additional testing was conducted on FACIA’s internal dataset of 3,430 AI-generated images created using tools like Midjourney, Artbreeder, and Leonardo.ai, achieving 89.01% accuracy.

Further tests on four leading open-source deepfake datasets contributed to the model’s combined detection accuracy of 99.6%. FACIA highlighted the system’s performance across varying conditions, noting its relevance to sectors like finance, defense, and immigration.

“This isn’t just about setting a benchmark,” said Daniyal Assad Chughtai, CTO at FACIA. “The rate at which deepfakes are spreading makes real-time, scalable detection infrastructure a critical need for social platforms, financial services, and public agencies.”

FACIA’s system differs from many current solutions by moving beyond frame-by-frame analysis and passive liveness detection. Instead, it uses a multi-layered detection pipeline specifically built to counter modern deepfake threats. The company also maintains low false acceptance and rejection rates, essential for high-assurance identity applications.

Looking ahead, FACIA plans to expand its detection capabilities with multilingual spoof detection, broader dataset training, and enhanced API support for integration into third-party platforms.

The announcement arrives as major platforms like Meta, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) face mounting scrutiny over synthetic media and misinformation.

FACIA is currently offering live demonstrations of its technology to partners and customers in deepfake-vulnerable sectors.

About FACIA

Facia provides deepfake prevention and detection solutions across 190+ countries. Its offerings include 3D liveness detection, age estimation, and iris recognition, built with some of the market’s fastest, most accurate algorithms.  

Media Contact
Ans Abbas
Marketing Lead | Facia
ans@facia.ai 

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/03d892c2-4376-49ed-bf15-ae7ec3717161 

SOURCE: Facia.ai

--BERNAMA 

MALAYSIA’S STRAITS ORTHOPAEDICS ACQUIRES US FIRM MEDIN TECHNOLOGIES

KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- Straits Orthopaedics (Mfg) Sdn Bhd (Straits), a Malaysian-based contract manufacturer specialising in orthopaedic implants and surgical instruments, has acquired Medin Technologies Inc (Medin).

In a statement, Straits said the strategic acquisition marked a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion efforts and strengthens its ability to offer integrated solutions to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) worldwide.

With over two decades of experience serving the global orthopaedic market, this acquisition positions Straits to deliver a broader and more cohesive range of manufacturing capabilities.

Straits Chief Executive Officer, Scott Gareiss said Medin’s expertise in design, vertical integration, and quality control complements the company’s existing offerings.

“The addition of Medin’s case and tray product lines expands our capabilities in supporting joint replacement, trauma, extremities, spine, power equipment, and more,” he added.

Medin General Manager, Hans de Waal welcomed the acquisition, noting that the company has been a key player in the orthopaedic market since 1979.

“Joining Straits enables Medin to provide comprehensive solutions across multiple segments as a global contract manufacturing organisation (CMO), including fully kitted instrument sets ready for distribution,” he said.

A United States (US)-based manufacturer of sterilisation cases and trays for the orthopaedic sector, Medin operates two manufacturing facilities in Totowa, New Jersey, and Manchester, New Hampshire.

Meanwhile, Quadria Capital Partner and Straits Board Director, Ewan Davis said the acquisition is in line with the firm’s commitment to enhancing Straits’ global footprint and driving greater patient impact.

Kirkland & Ellis and PricewaterhouseCoopers acted as advisors to Quadria and Straits for the transaction.

-- BERNAMA

Carestream Partners Vietnam's Vistacom To Expand Medical Imaging Reach

KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 (Bernama) -- Carestream Health has secured an agreement with Vietnam South East Asia Joint Stock Company (Vistacom), a distributor of advanced medical equipment solutions in Vietnam.

“Vistacom shares many of our values, namely our commitment to excellence. “We are excited to work together to help improve the standard of care for our customers across the country,” said Carestream Regional Director for Asia, Anton Tan.

Meanwhile, Vistacom Business Director, Long Nguyen said the company is honoured to join into a partnership with a renowned industry leader like Carestream.

“We are looking forward to providing our customers with the most advanced, user-friendly imaging solutions available,” he said in a statement. 

Established in 2006, Vistacom provides medical equipment, consumables, and healthcare solutions to the public and private sectors, including more than 2,000 hospitals and clinics across the country.

Vistacom was impressed with Carestream’s history of excellence in the medical imaging space, citing the latter’s ability to provide a variety of high-performance solutions, like the Horizon X-ray System, Focus and Focus HD Detectors, and Image Suite Software, as key factors for pursuing a partnership.

With the addition of Vistacom, Carestream now has over 200 committed partners across the globe.

Carestream is a worldwide provider of medical imaging systems, X-ray imaging systems for non-destructive testing, and precision contract coating services for a wide range of industrial, medical, electronic, and other applications, all backed by a global service and support network.

-- BERNAMA 

DUCK CREEK SCORES BIG IN CELENT'S 2025 P&C TECHNOLOGY RANKINGS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 (Bernama) -- Duck Creek Technologies has secured five XCelent Advanced Technology 2025 awards from analyst firm Celent, cementing its status as a global leader in Policy Administration System (PAS) for the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market.

The company earned Advanced Technology awards in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and Latin America (LATAM), along with wins for Breadth of Functionality and Customer Base and Support in North America.

Duck Creek Technologies Chief Executive Officer, Mike Jackowski said this validation from Celent shows the company’s platform empowers insurers worldwide to be faster, more agile, and more competitive.

“Celent's recognition across three regional reports confirms that our approach to policy administration innovation is making a real impact,” he said in a statement.

In addition, Celent named Duck Creek a Luminary—its highest distinction—in North America, recognising exceptional performance across innovation and execution.

Duck Creek was also recognised as a Technology Standout in EMEA, LATAM, and Asia Pacific (APAC) regions where agility and technical innovation are increasingly vital.

The company received high marks within the report based on its mature, cloud-based PAS used by a wide range of insurers globally.

Designed with persona-based workspaces, the Duck Creek platform supports underwriting and policy servicing with ease of use and efficiency.

-- BERNAMA

UK’s Barocal Wins US$1 Mln At TERA-Award For Solid-State Cooling Innovation

KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 (Bernama) -- British company Barocal has clinched the Gold Award and a US$1 million prize at the fourth edition of the TERA-Award, an Asia-based smart energy innovation competition empowered by Full Vision Capital. (US$1=RM4.22)

Organised by The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited, the event, held for the first time outside Hong Kong, took place on July 18 at King’s College, University of Cambridge, and was attended by over 100 industry leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists, investors and scholars.

Barocal’s breakthrough solid-state cooling system utilises barocaloric materials that change temperature under pressure, eliminating the need for harmful refrigerants while enhancing energy efficiency.

The technology, developed over a decade of research at the University of Cambridge, is said to offer up to three times the energy efficiency of conventional cooling systems, according to the organiser in a statement.

Full Vision Capital Principal and TERA-Award Founder, Dr Peter Lee said hosting the event overseas marked a major step in building an international platform for energy innovators.

“We are fostering a growing network of innovators, investors and partners. With targeted support and incubation, we have seen great progress from past winners and look forward to more success stories,” he said.

This year’s competition attracted 785 entries from 76 countries and regions. Winners hailed from Australia, China, the United Kingdom (UK), the United States, Singapore and Spain, reflecting the TERA-Award’s expanding global reach.

An innovation showcase and forum were held alongside the ceremony, featuring discussions on global clean energy trends and the importance of collaboration in the energy transition.

The fourth edition of the TERA-Award received support from the Hong Kong Investment Corporation, InvestHK, the UK Department for Business and Trade, and Kerogen CelerateX, underlining joint efforts to accelerate the commercialisation of zero-carbon solutions.

-- BERNAMA

SEKO Logistics Opens New Singapore Hub To Power Regional Fulfilment, Growth

 

SEKO announces the relocation of its Singapore corporate office and warehouse to new facilities. 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) -- SEKO Logistics (SEKO) has relocated its Singapore corporate office and warehouse to a new 8,000-square-foot facility in the Changi Free Trade Zone, a move that supports the company’s Asia Pacific growth strategy.

The new hub enhances its e-commerce fulfilment, multimodal freight forwarding, and value-added warehousing services under one roof, delivering greater efficiency and scalability for clients across Southeast Asia.

The relocation marks a significant milestone in SEKO’s investment in regional logistics infrastructure, with the new site designed to offer faster lead times and improved operational control.

“This move in Singapore is aligned with our vision to expand globally, drive organic growth, and create more scale,” said SEKO Chief Executive Officer, Gordon Branov in a statement.

Meanwhile, its Singapore Managing Director, Fabiano Duarte said the facility’s plug-and-play setup, climate-controlled storage and modular infrastructure offer clients operational flexibility.

“Singapore is one of the world’s most connected logistics hubs, and this site gives our clients a launchpad for scalable growth in the region,” he said.

The facility supports key verticals including e-commerce, automotive, aviation, high-tech, and retail and lifestyle sectors. Services offered include air and ocean freight, cross-border and last-mile delivery, and customisation services such as kitting, labelling, and bundling.

Equipped for both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) fulfilment, the warehouse features real-time inventory tracking through warehouse management system (WMS) integration and is compatible with major e-commerce platforms including Shopify, Shopee and Lazada.

Located within the Free Trade Zone, the warehouse provides same- or next-day access to major Southeast Asian markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.

The site also enables Goods and Services Tax (GST)-suspended storage, zone-to-zone transshipments and simplified customs procedures, creating a cost-effective and efficient gateway for regional distribution.

Headquartered in the United States, SEKO operates globally with a strong focus on e-commerce and cross-border logistics.

-- BERNAMA

CHAMPIONING ECONOMIC JUSTICE: CDC STRIKES GOLD FOR BREAKING BARRIERS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT

Senior Vice President of Corporate, Hafidz Ahmad Zehnun receiving the Gold award for Social – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion category.

BANDAR UTAMA, July 18 (Bernama) -- Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd (CDC) has been awarded the Gold Award in the Social – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion category at the ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024, recognising its powerful commitment to reshaping Malaysia’s public procurement landscape through its ‘Hari Bertemu Pembekal’.

At a time when economic inequality continues to limit progress, CDC’s award-winning initiative stands out as a force for change — empowering over 700 entrepreneurs from rural, remote, and marginalised communities in 2024 alone to participate directly in government tenders through the national ePerolehan platform.

Through its bold, data-informed strategy, on-ground execution, and deep collaboration with the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and other stakeholders, the programme has helped small businesses—many led by women and informal traders—overcome digital, logistical, and institutional barriers that once stood in their way.

“This isn’t just a win for CDC — it’s a win for every entrepreneur in Kalabakan, Sebauh, Tenom and beyond who now sees a future within the government supply chain,” said Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin, Chief Executive Officer of CDC. “We didn’t just take a system to the people — we made them believe they belong in it.”

Hari Bertemu Pembekal was rolled out across six zones including Sabah, Sarawak, Pahang, and Melaka, with permanent CDC officers deployed on the ground to offer hands-on support from troubleshooting registrations to demystifying procurement standards. Results have been both immediate and sustained: 65% successful registrations, 400+ system logins within 60 days, and a 71% retention rate — a clear marker of lasting engagement.

This Gold win also affirms CDC’s alignment with critical Sustainable Development Goals SDG 8 (Decent Work), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 9 (Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships) through its relentless pursuit of equity over convenience.

Looking ahead, CDC plans to scale its impact by enabling community-based peer mentorship, building digital self-help platforms, and introducing a DEI impact dashboard to track long-term outcomes.

With this ESG Gold, CDC cements its role as not just a technology provider — but a national enabler of inclusive growth and economic dignity.

About Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd

Established in 1999 as a procurement solutions provider, Commerce Dot Com Sdn. Bhd. (CDC) is a government-linked company under the Ministry of Finance whereby the ministry’s corporate arm, Ministry of Finance (Incorporated), holds a golden share in the company. With over 20 years of experience under its belt, CDC has established itself as among the leading procurement solutions providers in Malaysia and has a well-earned reputation for providing exceptional services through its innovative solutions.

SOURCE: Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: NURUL 'AIN BINTI MOHD YUSSOF
Tel: 017-7998902
Email: nurulain@commercedc.com.my

--BERNAMA

MIMOS BERHAD ANNOUNCES DR SAAT SHUKRI EMBONG AS PRESIDENT AND GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

 

Dr Saat Shukri Embong officially assumes his role as President and Group Chief Executive Officer of MIMOS Berhad. With a distinguished track record in technology innovation and strategic leadership across the public and private sectors, Dr Shukri is poised to lead MIMOS in advancing Malaysia’s technology landscape and driving national digital transformation.

BUKIT JALIL, July 18 (Bernama) -- MIMOS Berhad, Malaysia's national applied research and development centre, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Saat Shukri Embong as the President and Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 14 July 2025. Dr Shukri, a distinguished leader with a deep understanding of technology innovation and commercialisation, brings a wealth of experience to his new role at the helm of Malaysia's premier R&D institution.

He began his renowned career at Motorola Inc. in 1995, followed by a tenure at ON Semiconductor Inc. in 1998 as New Product Introduction Programme Manager. His extensive experience in the semiconductor industry includes key positions at STATSChipPAC Inc., Infineon Technologies AG, Texas Instruments Inc., and Freescale Semiconductor Inc. until 2008.

In 2009, Dr Shukri joined the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) and in 2010, he was seconded to the Prime Minister’s Office as the Operation Director, Office of Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of Malaysia.

His journey with MIMOS Berhad commenced in 2010 as Director of Research, where he spearheaded various collaboration programmes with local and international industries, universities, and research institutions. In 2013, he advanced to lead the Technology and Product Portfolio Development and Management Group, overseeing strategic activities from market intelligence and technology identification to bringing R&D outputs to market. In 2016, he was instrumental in leading the MIMOS Strategy Office, charting the company's strategic direction, particularly in alignment with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and national aspirations to position Malaysia among the top 20 countries by 2050. Most recently, in 2023, he served as Head of the Technology Venture Sector, driving collaboration, partnerships, commercialisation, and talent development initiatives.

Throughout his remarkable career, Dr Shukri has successfully developed numerous new technologies, products, and solutions, and secured various intellectual properties in his field, earning him inclusion in the 16th Edition of MARQUIS’ Who’s Who In The World.

Dr Shukri holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (1994) and a Master of Engineering in Mechatronics (1995) from the University of Hartford, USA, and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (2015).

Under Dr Shukri's leadership, MIMOS Berhad is poised to accelerate its contributions to national technology advancement, ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of innovation and digital transformation.

About MIMOS Berhad
MIMOS is a strategic agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and a premier innovation centre in Semiconductors, Microelectronics, and ICT technologies, contributing to Malaysia’s socio-economic growth through patentable technology platforms, products, and solutions. Since its inception, MIMOS has filed 2,000 patents in various technology domains and across key socio-economic areas, driving Malaysia’s digital transformation journey into the international arena.

As a centre of research excellence, MIMOS R&D activities currently focus on Semiconductor & Thin Film Research, Advanced Electronics & Embedded Systems, as well as Manufacturing and Smart Nation technologies. MIMOS continuously enhance its collaborations with existing strategic partners, explores new opportunities with potential partners, and develops new technology companies and business- oriented technology venture organisations. MIMOS also maintains its R&D of advanced technology, explores the development of global technopreneurship, and cultivates an attitude of trust, innovation and high performance.

For more information, please visit www.mimos.my.

SOURCE: MIMOS Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate Communication team
Name: Patricia Liew
Manager
Corporate Communication
Email: patricia.liew@mimos.my

Name: Nurazuin Wahab
Assistant Manager
Corporate Communication
Email: nurazuin.wahab@mimos.my

Name: Nuramalina Husna Nurdin
Senior Executive
Corporate Communication
Email: nuramalina.nurdin@mimos.my

--BERNAMA

BOTANEE GROUP LEADS CHINESE BEAUTY INDUSTRY PUSH AT CHINA-THAILAND CULTURAL EXCHANGE

 

Winona enters the Thai market

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 (Bernama) -- The "Mountains and Seas Spirits · Yu Garden Lantern Festival – 2025 China-Thailand Cultural Month" officially commenced at ICONSIAM, Bangkok, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand.

The event, aimed at strengthening cultural ties between the two nations, saw the participation of Botanee Group, a leading Chinese functional skincare company, as the sole representative from the beauty industry.

From July 7 to 13, Botanee Group, together with its flagship brand Winona, hosted the themed exhibition "Botanee Week – Mountain-Sea Harmony, Oriental Botanical Rhyme" – A Celebration of Living Aesthetics under the umbrella of the cultural month.

The exhibition highlighted the brand’s commitment to health, beauty, and the promotion of Oriental aesthetics through scientific innovation, according to the group in a statement.

Founded in Yunnan Province, China, Botanee has emerged as a key player in the functional skincare market. The company’s presentation at the event featured a specially designed Winona popup booth, which illustrated its journey from the snow-capped mountains of Yunnan to advanced laboratories across the globe.

In addition to its research and development centres in Shanghai and Kunming, Botanee has established laboratories in Paris, France, and Tokyo, Japan, further advancing international scientific collaboration.

Earlier this year, the group launched its Southeast Asia headquarters in Bangkok, marking a strategic milestone in its global expansion efforts.

Botanee’s products are currently available in leading Thai beauty retail outlets such as BEAUTRIUM and EVEANDBOY and have also entered Mannings stores in Hong Kong and Macao.

The "Botanee Week" initiative is seen as a significant step in strengthening the group’s market presence in Thailand while laying the groundwork for future expansion into neighbouring countries including Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam.

Botanee Group remains committed to leveraging China’s scientific expertise to support its global growth and contribute to the international development of Chinese cosmetics.

-- BERNAMA

ENCORP NAMES YOUNG TALENT TO BOARD AS NON-INDEPENDENT NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

KOTA DAMANSARA, July 16 (Bernama) -- Encorp Berhad (ENCORP) announces the appointment of Encik Muhammad Fitri Othman as its new Non-Independent Non-Executive Director effective 15 July 2025. His appointment signals ENCORP’s commitment to introducing fresh perspectives and next-generation leadership to its Board.

Encik Fitri brings with him over 17 years of experience across financial services, government- linked investment entities and the corporate sector, both in Malaysia and abroad. He is currently serving as the Group Chief Executive Officer of Felda Investment Corporation (FIC), where he oversees strategic leadership, business growth and value creation across FIC’s core businesses in hospitality, trading, property management, real estate development and mining.

Prior to this, Encik Fitri served as the Chief Investment Officer of Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera (LTAT), the retirement fund for the Malaysian Armed Forces. He was responsible for the fund’s overall investment strategy, including oversight of its strategic holdings in Affin Bank Berhad and Boustead Holdings Berhad. During his tenure, he was also a Director of Boustead Holdings Berhad, where he served as a member of the Group Board Sustainability Committee, providing oversight on ESG strategies and corporate transformation initiatives.

He also served as a Director of Affin Islamic Bank Berhad, where he provided guidance on the bank's strategic direction and governance as part of the Board, and was a member of the Group Board Compliance Committee, ensuring adherence to Shariah principles, regulatory standards and corporate governance best practices.

Encik Fitri has held numerous board and board committee roles in diverse sectors including banking, real estate, plantation, pharmaceuticals, downstream fuel and asset management. He has led strategic divestments, high-value corporate transactions and major portfolio restructurings.

He started his career as an investment analyst with Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) and held various positions within the Group for over 11 years including stints at subsidiaries in London and Tokyo.

Encik Fitri holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Finance (First Class Honours) from the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, a Master of Science in Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science, United Kingdom and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder accredited by the CFA Institute of USA. He also holds a Sustainable Investing Certificate from the CFA Institute of USA and has completed executive education programmes at INSEAD, France and Harvard Business School, USA.

Encik Fitri’s appointment reflects ENCORP’s focus on nurturing high-calibre talent and enhancing Board diversity with global thinkers who bring fresh energy and strategic foresight. It also underscores the Group’s continued commitment to forward-looking governance and sustainable value creation.

About Encorp Berhad
Listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia (Ticker: ENCORP/6076), ENCORP is principally an investment-holding company. The Group is currently involved in three core businesses – property development, property investment and construction. For more information, visit www.encorp.com.my.

SOURCE: Encorp Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Saidah Umairah Binti Zul Azki
Tel: 03 6286 7777
Email: umairah@encorp.com.my

--BERNAMA

Bitget Launchpool to List Eclipse (E) with over 1.5M in Token Rewards

VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, and Web3 company has announced the listing of Eclipse (ES) in the Innovation Zone, for spot trading. Besides being available for spot trading, Bitget will launch an exclusive Launchpool rewards campaign with up to 1,511,494 ES up for grabs.

Spot trading for Eclipse (ES) under the ES/USDT trading pair will begin on 16 July 2025, 10:00 (UTC) with withdrawals will be available starting 17 July 2025, 11:00 (UTC).

To celebrate the listing, Bitget will launch a Launchpool campaign offering 1,295,600 ES in total rewards. Eligible users can participate by locking either BGB or ES tokens during the event, which runs from 17 July 2025, 10:00 to 21 July 2025, 10:00 (UTC). In the BGB pool, users can lock between 5 and 50,000 BGB, with maximum limits determined by their VIP tier, for a chance to earn a share of 1,261,000 ES. In the ES pool, participants can lock between 8 and 800,000 ES to receive a portion of 34,600 ES in rewards.

Additionally, Bitget will launch a CandyBomb campaign with 166,000 ES available through a trading-based airdrop. Of the total, 99,600 ES will be allocated to the ES trading pool, while 66,400 ES will be available in the combined BTC, SOL, and ES trading pool.

Bitget will also run an X Giveaway, where 750 qualified users will have the chance to win a share of 24,947 ES. The campaign runs from 16 July 2025, 10:00 to 23 July 2025, 10:00 (UTC). To participate, users must follow Bitget and Eclipse on X, quote the giveaway post with the hashtag #ESlistBitget, tag a friend, sign up, deposit or trade ES on Bitget, and complete the form linked in the post.

In addition, a community campaign will run during the same period, offering another 24,947 ES to be shared among 750 qualified users. To join, users need to become members of both the Bitget Discord and BGB Holders Group, sign up, make a net deposit of over 100 USDT, and complete any ES/USDT spot trade.

Eclipse is a modular L2 network built to deliver fast, low-cost, and scalable blockchain performance by integrating the strengths of multiple ecosystems. It leverages Ethereum for settlement, the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) for speed, Celestia for data availability, and RISC Zero for zero-knowledge proofs. Positioning it to address the blockchain trilemma of scalability, security, and decentralization. With its developer-friendly design, Eclipse is optimized for high-performance use cases, from high-frequency DeFi transactions to complex decentralized applications, offering a seamless experience without compromising on speed or efficiency.

Bitget continues to solidify its role as a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange, offering over 800 listed tokens across spot and derivatives markets. The addition of Eclipse to Launchpool aligns with Bitget's ongoing effort to support innovative projects whose value continues to evolve the ecosystem.

Find more details on Eclipse, 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/2be7c95b-4d40-4d41-be8b-b35d7e57d9aa

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

Financial Planning for Professionals (FP4PRO) Roadshow

Programme highlights the basics of money management, investment and retirement by Licensed Financial Planners

KUALA LUMPUR, July 14 (Bernama) -- Financial Planning For Professionals (FP4PRO), returns for the 3rd year through a series of physical sessions. The sessions are being rolled out to strategically provide professionals with the basic knowledge of managing personal finances. The nationwide initiative conducted in collaboration between the Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC), Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF), The Smart Investor (TSI) magazine, Private Pension Administrator (PPA) and WeBull Securities (M) Sdn Bhd, aims to strengthen the financial literacy foundation skills among professionals. The event is supported by the 23 professional members of Balai Ikhthisas Malaysia (BIM), the body for all professional organisations and a host of other professional bodies. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) is also a collaborator for the 2025 edition.

The details of the roadshow are as follows:

No Programme Date/ Details Venue
1 Financial Planning for Professional Roadshow (Penang) 19th July 2025 Penang Institute, Penang
2. Financial Planning for Professional Roadshow (Ipoh) 2nd August 2025 The Haven, Ipoh
3. Financial Planning for Professional Roadshow (KL) 30th August 2025 AICB, KL
4. Financial Planning for Professional Roadshow (Virtual) 22nd November 2025 Zoom Events

The Financial Planning for Professionals (FP4PRO) marks a significant step in the Council’s commitment to address financial planning knowledge among professionals and is in line with the intent of the Government of ensuring that more professionals are aware of the need for planning ahead. This programme is designed to empower professionals, ensuring they remain at the forefront of attaining financial well-being. Securities Commission (SC) Malaysia and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) licensed financial planners and advisors will be available at the venue to provide consultation at no charge to the attendees.

Introduced in 2023, through funding by the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF) on virtual sessions basis, FP4PRO programme has since grown into vital learning through physical sessions and soon to be made available online module. By empowering professionals with essential financial literacy knowledge, an action plan and ensuring equitable access to education on the topic by licensed intermediaries, and through strong partnerships with like-minded bodies, MFPC will continue to drive the importance of financial planning that could empower every Malaysian.

Financial well-being can best happen with the optimisation of one’s resources. This is knowledge many lack, including professionals. Amidst the swiftly changing economic landscape of today, individuals working in various fields encounter distinct financial obstacles. Strategic personal financial management has become more crucial than ever, from retirement planning to an array of investment options.

For more information on FP4PRO initiative, please visit https://www.mfpc.org.my/cpd-events/financialroadshow/

About MFPC

The Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC) was set up in in 2004 with the objective of promoting nationwide development and enhancement of the financial planning profession. Our mission now includes raising the financial literacy of all Malaysians by being at the forefront of efforts to provide financial education to Malaysians from all walks of life. We do this by continuously conducting numerous financial education programmes for the public at no cost, reflecting our contribution to the positive development of Malaysians and ultimately the nation.
The RFP qualification has been approved by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) as a prerequisite to apply for a Financial Adviser License and a Financial Adviser Representative License. The RFP qualification has also been approved by the Securities Commission of Malaysia for the Capital Market Services License (CMSL) application in light of the introduction of the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007.
Our website: www.mfpc.org.my

SOURCE: The Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Farhan Azizan
Tel: +6019 277 3521
Email: farhan@mfpc.org.my

Name: Syed Mohd Khalil
Tel: +6012 251 0807
Email: khalil@mfpc.org.my

--BERNAMA

KIOXIA AiSAQ™ Software Advances AI RAG with New Version of Vector Search Library

New Open-Source Software Enables Flexible Balancing of Capacity and Performance Based on User Needs and Environment

TOKYO, July 3 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) --In an ongoing effort to improve the usability of AI vector database searches within retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems by optimizing the use of solid-state drives (SSDs), Kioxia Corporation, a world leader in memory solutions, today announced an update to its KIOXIA AiSAQ™ (All-in-Storage ANNS with Product Quantization) software. This new open-source release introduces flexible controls allowing system architects to define the balance point between search performance and the number of vectors, which are opposing factors in the fixed capacity of SSD storage in the system. The resulting benefit enables architects of RAG systems to fine tune the optimal balance of specific workloads and their requirements, without any hardware modifications.

First introduced in January 2025, KIOXIA AiSAQ software uses a novel approximate nearest neighbor search (ANNS) algorithm that is optimized for SSDs and eliminates the need to store index data in DRAM. By enabling vector searches directly on SSDs and reducing host memory requirements, KIOXIA AiSAQ technology allows vector databases to scale, largely without the restrictions caused by limited DRAM capacity.

When the installed capacity of the SSD in the system is fixed, increasing search performance (queries per second) requires more SSD capacity consumed per vector. This results in a smaller number of vectors. Conversely, to maximize the number of vectors, SSD capacity consumption per vector needs to be reduced, which results in lower performance. The optimal balance between these two opposing conditions varies depending on the specific workload. To find the appropriate balance, KIOXIA AiSAQ software introduces flexible configuration options. This latest update allows administrators to select the optimal balance for a variety of contrasting workloads among the RAG system. This update makes KIOXIA AiSAQ technology a suitable SSD-based ANNS for not only RAG applications but also other vector-hungry applications such as offline semantic searches.

With growing demand for scalable AI services, SSDs offer a practical alternative to DRAM for managing the high throughput and low latency that RAG systems require. KIOXIA AiSAQ software makes it possible to meet these demands efficiently, enabling large-scale generative AI without being constrained by limited memory resources.

By releasing KIOXIA AiSAQ software as open-source, Kioxia reinforces its commitment to the AI community with the promotion of SSD-centric architectures for scalable AI. 

Please follow the link to download KIOXIA AiSAQ open-source software.
https://github.com/kioxia-jp/aisaq-diskann 

* KIOXIA AiSAQ: All-in-Storage ANNS with Product Quantization, a novel method of index data placement, is a trademark of Kioxia. 
* All other company names, product names and service names may be trademarks of third-party companies. 

About Kioxia 

Kioxia is a world leader in memory solutions, dedicated to the development, production and sale of flash memory and solid-state drives (SSDs). In April 2017, its predecessor Toshiba Memory was spun off from Toshiba Corporation, the company that invented NAND flash memory in 1987. Kioxia is committed to uplifting the world with “memory” by offering products, services and systems that create choice for customers and memory-based value for society. Kioxia's innovative 3D flash memory technology, BiCS FLASH™, is shaping the future of storage in high-density applications, including advanced smartphones, PCs, automotive systems, data centers and generative AI systems. 

*Information in this document, including product prices and specifications, content of services and contact information, is correct on the date of the announcement but is subject to change without prior notice.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250701087123/en/ 

Contact 

Media Inquiries:
Kioxia Corporation
Sales Strategic Planning Division
Satoshi Shindo
Tel: +81-3-6478-2404 

Source : Kioxia Corporation 

--BERNAMA 

SHELL V-POWER KICKS OFF “FEEL IT ALL” CAMPAIGN WITH A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME VIP EXPERIENCE UP FOR GRABS

Shell V-Power kicks off “Feel It All” campaign with a once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience up for grabs

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- This year marks 75 years of partnership between Shell and Ferrari, a legacy built on innovation, performance, and trust. In the spirit of this ongoing collaboration, Shell V- Power is turning up the heat this June with a nationwide celebration of performance, precision, and passion. As part of its exhilarating “Feel It All” campaign, Shell V-Power invites Malaysians to experience its full performance and collect entries for a once-in-a-lifetime VIP Experience of Shell Motorsport, in Singapore.

Behind that experience is Shell V-Power. A bold expression of engineering excellence that delivers 3.93% more power, 3.69% faster acceleration, and is specially formulated to 100% clean critical engine parts to help keep engines performing like new. The Shell V-Power Racing, the only fuel used, trusted, and recommended by Scuderia Ferrari HP, shares at least 99% of the same types of compounds with Shell V-Power Racing fuel available at Shell stations across Malaysia, bringing track-proven performance to Malaysians who expect more from every drive.

Seow Lee Ming, General Manager, Mobility & Convenience, Shell Malaysia, said, “Shell V-Power is engineered for those who expect more from every drive: more power, precision, and performance.

As the only fuel used, trusted and recommended by Scuderia Ferrari HP, it represents the highest standard of fuel innovation, helping Malaysians “Feel It All” in every journey. With this campaign, we wanted to bring the thrill of motorsport closer to the people. From meeting with Scuderia Ferrari HP drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, to experiencing the pulse of the paddock, this is Shell’s way of delivering something our customers truly want: unforgettable moments powered by unbeatable performance,” added Lee Ming.

From 16 June to 10 August 2025, Shell customers who fuel with Shell V-Power or purchase selected Shell Helix engine oil and are registered Shell Loyalty members via the Shell App or BonusLink can collect entries to win many exciting rewards.

The Ultimate VIP Experience in Singapore
Six winners will receive the ultimate reward: an unforgettable journey to Singapore, where they will experience the pinnacle of Shell Motorsport up close, complete with exclusive access and first-class hospitality.

Autographed Merchandise & Virtual Access
Thirty winners will receive a signed Scuderia Ferrari HP 2025 Team Caps and enjoy a virtual Q&A session with Scuderia Ferrari HP drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, a rare chance to interact with the legends.

Weekly Wins. Premium Rewards.
The excitement continues every week. Twenty winners will be crowned weekly, and one lucky individual will become a BonusLink Millionaire. Meanwhile, 19 others stand a chance to win the Scuderia Ferrari HP 2025 Team Caps.

How to Win
With every RM80 spent on Shell V-Power 97, customers earn five entries into the contest, step up to Shell V-Power Racing at RM100 and unlock 10 entries. Or go further, purchase any selected 4L bottle of Shell Helix Fully Synthetic engine oil and gain 15 entries. The more premium your choice, the greater your chances.

Exclusive Ferrari Collectibles with Shell Helix Ultra
To fuel even more excitement, Shell is introducing an additional Shell Helix Ultra promotion. Customers can get a limited-edition Ferrari F1 SF-24 model car when they purchase any 2 bottles of Shell Helix Power or Shell Helix Ultra lubricants. Malaysia is the first market globally to receive this exclusive model, making it a must-have for collectors and Ferrari fans.

Shell’s Innovation Partnership with Scuderia Ferrari is one of the longest and most successful in motorsport. For more information, please visit https://www.shell.com.my/motorists/shell-fuels/shell-v-power.html.

SOURCE: Edelman Public Relations Worldwide Sdn Bhd

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: ​
Name: PREMA JAYABALAN
Senior Manager, Media Relations and Issues Management
Shell Malaysia
Email: Prema.Jayabalan@shell.com

Name: ARIVINTIRAN PONNAN
Manager
Edelman Public Relations Worldwide Sdn Bhd
Email: Arivintiran.Ponnan@Edelman.com

--BERNAMA

Remedi, CGC Digital and Seedflex Partner to Enable On-Platform Financing for Clinics

(From left) MIDA Executive Director of Investment Promotion Faizal Jalaludin, Remedi Managing Director and Co-Founder Dr Khairul Faizi Khalid, CGC Digital Chief Executive Officer Yushida Husin, Seedflex Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Ritwik Ghosh, and Cyberview Head of Technology Hub Development Shafinaz Salim at the signing ceremony between Remedi, CGC Digital, and Seedflex to enable on-platform financing for clinics.

 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 2 (Bernama) -- Remedi, CGC Digital, and Seedflex today announced a strategic collaboration to expand access to business financing for private clinics through embedded financing within the Remedi clinic management platform. The initiative supports SME digitalization by integrating financial services directly into the Remedi Clinic Management Platform, already used by more than 500 clinics in Malaysia.

Supporting SME Digitalization and Financial Inclusion
This innovative collaboration is aimed at improving financing access for private clinics—many of which operate as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—by embedding loan and financing options within their existing digital workflows. It forms part of a broader effort to strengthen financial resilience among healthcare SMEs through alternative data and platform-based delivery.

A Digital Platform for End-to-End Clinic Management
Remedi provides an integrated solution for managing the full range of clinic operations. This includes appointment scheduling, billing, medical records, inventory control, and patient engagement, all in a seamless digital environment. The platform also captures valuable business insights that support predictive features, such as forecasting inventory needs.

“We are committed to helping clinics digitalize not only their operations, but also their access to financial and procurement services. Embedded financing is an innovative approach and natural step in building a full-service ecosystem for clinics and ensuring their operational sustainability as well,” said Khairul Faizi Khalid, Managing Director of Remedi.

In addition, the platform has launched a built-in procurement marketplace that allows clinics to order medical supplies and consumables directly, streamlining inventory management and making operations more efficient. By embedding financing into this ecosystem, clinics will be able to access working capital and business loans directly through the platform, reducing administrative burden and improving access to tailored funding.

“This initiative allows us to bring the alternative financing ecosystem closer to the point of need—supporting SMEs with both access and affordability,” said Yushida Husin, CEO of CGC Digital.

Bridging the Financing Gap by Connecting Ecosystems
This collaboration brings together critical components of the healthcare and lending ecosystems to address long-standing challenges in accessing financing:
· Remedi acts as the central hub, embedding financing tools within its operational interface and generating data to support credit evaluation.
· CGC Digital plays a facilitative role by enabling risk-sharing arrangements and connecting a broader network of financing partners to the platform leveraging CGC Digital’s financing marketplace, imSME.
· Seedflex provides flexible, performance-based financing tailored to clinics’ actual business activity, making capital more accessible and aligned with day-to-day operational realities.

By integrating financing into a platform already central to clinic operations, the partnership lowers barriers to funding, streamlines the application process, and enables more responsive and appropriate financing solutions—ultimately bridging the financing gap for a critical segment of healthcare SMEs.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Remedi and CGC Digital to provide flexible financing to address the real-life credit needs of healthcare clinics. This partnership allows us to continue pursuing our vision to bridge the credit gap for SMEs and give business owners of any size the same fair access to capital regardless of their background,” added Ritwik Ghosh, Co-Founder and CEO of Seedflex.

About CGC Digital
CGC Digital is a FinTech company, established as the digital arm of Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad. Registered in July 2022, its primary goal is to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by creating a simpler and more seamless financing experience in the digital ecosystem.

For more information about CGC Digital, please visit www.cgcdigital.com.my.

About Remedi
Remedi, a leading digital health company specialising in Electronic Medical Record solutions is renowned for its fast-growing cloud-based Clinic Management Solutions trusted by over 500 clinics nationwide. Remedi is dedicated to enhancing the patient experience by improving primary care healthcare service efficiency and delivery with the use of innovative automation and digitalization of workflow in clinics.

About Seedflex
Seedflex is a new way of accessing credit for cashless businesses, co-founded by two former Grab executives who built the superapp company’s fintech lending business in Southeast Asia. Seedflex provides a new frictionless form of credit to cashless businesses by underwriting and collecting loans based on online sales alone. Real-time and granular transaction data provides sufficient basis for robust underwriting driven by proprietary credit scoring and strategy, while daily settlement of sales enables an opportunity for fractional and automated collection through Seedflex’s proprietary “Pay-As-You-Sell Advance”™ solution.

SOURCE: Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC Malaysia)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Chin Sze Yuen
Head of Partnerships & Marketing
Tel: +60169776034
Email: szeyuen.chin@cgcdigital.com.my

Name: Mohd Amie Rashidi Rasikon
Head of Business and Services
Tel: +60128889772
Email: rashidi@remedi.my

Name: Aaron Pan
Communications Consultant
Tel: +85261055550
Email: aaron.pan@seedflex.com


--BERNAMA

PETRONAS GAS BERHAD REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SAFETY FOLLOWING INVESTIGATION FINDINGS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS Gas Berhad (PGB) takes note of the findings released by the relevant authorities in relation to the 1 April 2025 pipeline incident at Putra Heights.
PGB reiterates our ongoing commitment to full transparency, continuous improvement, care for those affected, and to continue its collaboration with the Special Taskforce and relevant authorities. Since the incident, PGB has mobilised substantial efforts to ensure public safety, support the impacted community, and maintain gas supply continuity across the country.

This incident is unprecedented in the history of our gas transmission system, and we fully recognise the public concerns surrounding the safety of the pipeline system, especially with the continuity of gas flow through the network.

The Peninsular Gas Utilisation (PGU) system is designed with multiple layers of safety and resilience, underpinned by over three decades of engineering and operational experience. Our systems and people are working continuously to ensure secure and reliable gas delivery to homes, industries, and the nation’s power sector.

About PETRONAS Gas Berhad

PETRONAS Gas Berhad (PGB) is the leading gas infrastructure and utilities company with PETRONAS Group holding 51% of its equity. Incorporated in 1983 and listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia on 4 September 1995, PGB operates four integrated businesses, which are gas processing, transportation, regasification and utilities.

Our strategically located assets and strong operational performance ensures safe and reliable supply of products and services throughout Malaysia and Singapore. With over 30 years of experience in gas and utilities infrastructure operations, PGB steps up to pursue growth opportunities in domestic and emerging market as part of our integrated gas solutions.

PGB is a constituent company member of FTSE4Good Index Series, showing the Company's commitment to operate in a responsible manner in the environmental, social and governance (ESG) fronts.

Further details on PGB can be found at www.petronas.com/pgb

Issued by
Strategic Communications
PETRONAS Gas Berhad

SOURCE: PETRONAS Gas Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Florence Oh
Tel: +012 3081 092
Email: florence.oh@petronas.com

Name: Faris Fahmi
Tel: +6012 7717 857
Email: faris.mohd@petronas.com

--BERNAMA