KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- Rafay Systems, a leader in cloud-native orchestration, has been selected by Firmus Technologies to integrate Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) capabilities into the Firmus AI Cloud.
In a statement, Rafay Systems said the collaboration is aimed at enhancing Firmus’ developer experience by enabling users to train, fine-tune and deploy artificial intelligence (AI) models directly on its vertically integrated AI Factory infrastructure.
Rafay Systems chief executive officer and co-founder, Haseeb Budhani said the partnership will enable enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region to scale from prototyping to production with greater agility and cost efficiency.
Meanwhile, Firmus Technologies chief technology officer, Dr Daniel Kearney said Rafay’s technology will help the company provide a best-in-class experience for users accessing Southgate compute by turning advanced hardware into a user-friendly cloud environment.
“We are committed to full-stack innovation, and that includes cloud services. For us, that means giving developers a seamless path to train and deploy on world-class infrastructure,” he said.
At the core of this collaboration is Rafay’s Kubernetes Operations Platform, now embedded within Firmus’ AI FactoryOS, a proprietary operating system engineered for maximum efficiency across compute, cooling, and orchestration. The result is a frictionless, full-stack developer experience built for AI at scale.
This integration also gives developers self-service access to Firmus’ AI Factory deployments, including Project Southgate, Australia’s largest graphics processing unit (GPU) deployment powered by renewable energy. Southgate is designed for low energy and water usage with high-density compute efficiency, offering next-generation infrastructure with improved cost and carbon performance.
Through the integration, enterprise customers and developers will gain access to a complete AI stack, from raw compute to developer-ready services such as Jupyter Notebooks, ML workbenches and NVIDIA technologies.
Enhanced features will also include serverless inference, fine-tuning services and AI Studio capabilities for model hosting, streaming fine-tuning and inferencing.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
RAFAY POWERS FIRMUS AI CLOUD WITH FULL-STACK PAAS FOR SCALABLE, SUSTAINABLE AI DEPLOYMENT
Monday, September 29, 2025
GLOBAL WATER TARIFF GROWTH SLOWS TO 6.2 PCT, DRIVEN BY INVESTMENT - GWI SURVEY
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Global water tariffs rose by an average of 6.2 per cent between 2024 and 2025, according to the Global Water Intelligence (GWI) annual Tariff Survey released recently, a cooling off from the steep, inflation-fuelled increases of the post-pandemic years.
This year’s hikes are increasingly tied to long-term infrastructure investment rather than short-term operational cost recovery, which was driving early post-pandemic increases, according to GWI in a statement.
Unusually, Europe is at the forefront of this year’s tariff increase, with new legislation and investments in climate change resilience driving higher-than-usual increases.
Joining Europe at the top of the increase table are Turkey and Kazakhstan, which together dominate seven of the 10 highest increases globally. Kazakhstan made a bold policy shift by adopting volumetric tariffs to fund ageing infrastructure—a sharp increase, though tariffs remain low in real terms.
Meanwhile in Asia, where GWI has surveyed 172 cities from 40 countries and territories, growth is sluggish. A few notable increases in India are far from enough to lift the country’s standing in the tariff ranking; South Asia remains by far the cheapest region in the world.
In Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa, after sustained growth over the past few years, growth is relatively subdued this year, with notable exceptions such as South Africa and Argentina.
As for North America, tariff growth is stable, underpinned in many cities by increases in stormwater charges to cope with more extreme weather events.
GWI is the leading market intelligence and events company serving the international water industry, providing its customers with high-level intelligence that enables them to make the most informed strategic decisions for their business.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, September 26, 2025
BEIJING’S CHAOYANG LIGHTS UP WITH GLOBAL FESTIVAL SPECTACLE
Beijing Chaoyang International Light Festival 2025 unveils nearly 60 light art installations.
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- The 2025 Beijing Chaoyang International Light Festival, themed “Together! We Shine!”, is lighting up the city from Sept 26 through October, dazzling visitors with a spectacular fusion of modern technology, art, and culture.
This year’s event features nearly 60 large-scale light and sculpture installations created in collaboration with internationally acclaimed director Richard Taylor, Singaporean light artists, China’s top art academies, and the China Urban Sculpture Artists Association.
The festival’s main venue transforms Liangma River and Chaoyang Park into a glowing wonderland, showcasing interactive aquatic performances with mechanical creatures like the Blue Whale and Pegasus.
Highlights include live symphony concerts, the animated family show Shaun the Sheep, and the opening of Beijing’s first outdoor water-based performance space, the renovated Shell Theater, according to a statement.
Pop culture elements such as the “Star Bear” stage at POP MART City and immersive urban installations add a playful, contemporary edge.
In collaboration with the 2025 Liangma River Art Season, which features renowned domestic and international artists, over 100 performances and art collaborations promise a vibrant experience blending light, dreams, and urban discovery for residents and visitors alike.
-- BERNAMA
SHARJAH EXPANDS HUMANITARIAN INITIATIVE PROJECT IN PUTTALAM, SRI LANKA
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| Sultan bin Ahmed lays foundation for Al Reeh Al Mursala Village (Photo: AETOSWire) |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- Sharjah Deputy Ruler and Sharjah Media Council Chairman, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, recently laid the foundation stone for Al Reeh Al Mursala Village in Sri Lanka’s Puttalam region, marking a major milestone in Sharjah’s ongoing global humanitarian efforts.The project, launched as part of a wider humanitarian initiative, includes the construction of 50 homes, a mosque that accommodates 200 worshippers, a healthcare centre, and various essential service facilities designed to support the wellbeing of the local community.
A fully equipped mobile medical clinic has also been inaugurated, aiming at delivering emergency medical services and conducting routine health screenings. It will serve Al Reeh Al Mursala residents and neighbouring villages, significantly improving access to healthcare in remote and underserved areas.
According to a statement, this initiative is supported by the Al Reeh Al Mursala programme, developed and broadcast by the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority (SBA) in partnership with Sharjah Charity International (SCI).
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed affirmed that the charitable projects implemented in Sri Lanka are a result of this strong collaboration and are a continuation of Sharjah’s commitment to spreading humanitarian values and supporting those in need globally.
He also highlighted that these efforts reflect the directives and vision of Sharjah Supreme Council Member and Ruler, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, who continuously encourages acts of compassion and extending support to vulnerable communities.
Since its launch 14 years ago, Al Reeh Al Mursala has raised approximately 67 million Emirati dirhams, supporting humanitarian projects in over 110 countries. (100 Emirati Dirham = RM114.92)
Funded initiatives include the Little Hearts Campaign, eye surgeries, orphan sponsorships, construction of mosques and schools, medical centres, water wells, and a wide range of income-generating programmes.
-- BERNAMA
EXP REALTY OFFERS FLEXIBILITY TO AGENT WITH EXPANSION INTO SOUTH KOREA
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- Independent real estate brokerage, eXp Realty has officially entered into South Korea, marking its fifth international launch of 2025 and second in Asia after Japan.
In Korea, where traditional brokerages still rely on fixed offices and rigid hierarchies, eXp is launching with a fundamentally different platform—artificial intelligence (AI)-native, borderless, and built to give agents more freedom, flexibility, and control over their future.
“Most brokerages in Korea are running on an old model, built for the boss, not the agent. We are not here to compete with that model; we are here to end it. And to give agents a platform that finally sees them as the business,” said eXp Realty Managing Director, International, Felix Bravo.
According to a statement, the launch supports eXp’s 2030 goal of reaching 50,000 productive agents outside the United States and over 500 productive agents in 50 countries, scaling an agent-owned model built for growth, not overhead.
An award-winning top producer in Korea’s traditional brokerage system, Thomas Kim currently leads eXp Korea with a focus on helping agents grow their businesses through innovation, mentorship, and a truly global network.
“eXp gives Korean agents what I never had: a real chance to grow through sales, team building, stock ownership, and even global referrals. But more importantly, it is growth that benefits them, not just the brokerage,” commented Kim.
eXp Realty offers Korean agents a fundamentally different model, with no office requirements, allowing them to work from anywhere while benefiting from a competitive commission structure designed to maximise earnings.
Agents gain access to revenue share, equity opportunities, and a global referral network. The platform also provides continuous support through live training, mentorship, and collaboration tools such as eXp World, LearnWorlds, and Slack—empowering agents to grow their businesses on their terms.
-- BERNAMA
In Korea, where traditional brokerages still rely on fixed offices and rigid hierarchies, eXp is launching with a fundamentally different platform—artificial intelligence (AI)-native, borderless, and built to give agents more freedom, flexibility, and control over their future.
“Most brokerages in Korea are running on an old model, built for the boss, not the agent. We are not here to compete with that model; we are here to end it. And to give agents a platform that finally sees them as the business,” said eXp Realty Managing Director, International, Felix Bravo.
According to a statement, the launch supports eXp’s 2030 goal of reaching 50,000 productive agents outside the United States and over 500 productive agents in 50 countries, scaling an agent-owned model built for growth, not overhead.
An award-winning top producer in Korea’s traditional brokerage system, Thomas Kim currently leads eXp Korea with a focus on helping agents grow their businesses through innovation, mentorship, and a truly global network.
“eXp gives Korean agents what I never had: a real chance to grow through sales, team building, stock ownership, and even global referrals. But more importantly, it is growth that benefits them, not just the brokerage,” commented Kim.
eXp Realty offers Korean agents a fundamentally different model, with no office requirements, allowing them to work from anywhere while benefiting from a competitive commission structure designed to maximise earnings.
Agents gain access to revenue share, equity opportunities, and a global referral network. The platform also provides continuous support through live training, mentorship, and collaboration tools such as eXp World, LearnWorlds, and Slack—empowering agents to grow their businesses on their terms.
-- BERNAMA
CLOUDERA SUPERCHARGES DATA LAKEHOUSE WITH ICEBERG UPGRADES FOR AI ANYWHERE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- Cloudera has announced updates to its platform, specifically Cloudera Iceberg REST Catalog and Cloudera Lakehouse Optimizer, to strengthen its commitment to delivering the best open data lakehouse powered by Iceberg.
Cloudera Chief Product Officer, Leo Brunnick said the company pioneered the Big Data industry and remained a leading platform provider who continues to invest in making the Apache Iceberg open table format enterprise-ready.
“With today’s news, we continue to deliver on the promise of flexibility, scalability, and uncompromised insights when and where you need them the most. That commitment is why the world’s largest organisations rely on Cloudera to bring AI to their data, wherever it lives,” added Brunnick in a statement.
With these updates, Iceberg REST Catalog provides the open interoperability needed to share data seamlessly, while Lakehouse Optimizer will help to ensure data is always optimised and cost-effective for all engines accessing the data, all under Cloudera’s unified governance and security.
Cloudera is the first and only provider to integrate the Iceberg REST Catalog across a full-lifecycle data and AI platform, enabling secure, zero-copy data sharing and unified governance across any cloud or data centre.
The company’s new offering solves these challenges by integrating the Iceberg REST Catalog into its platform, allowing third-party engines to access Cloudera-managed data directly and ensuring consistent policy enforcement and metadata intelligence in public clouds, data centres, and the edge.
Meanwhile, the Cloudera Lakehouse Optimizer will deliver automated optimisations and table maintenance for Apache Iceberg within Cloudera's lakehouse, offering advanced, intelligent optimisations that go beyond basic table maintenance, including tasks like rewriting manifest and position delete files.
By intelligently optimising tables, it eliminates the need for manual data management tasks and operational costs, allowing customers to focus on extracting insights from their data.
-- BERNAMA
Cloudera Chief Product Officer, Leo Brunnick said the company pioneered the Big Data industry and remained a leading platform provider who continues to invest in making the Apache Iceberg open table format enterprise-ready.
“With today’s news, we continue to deliver on the promise of flexibility, scalability, and uncompromised insights when and where you need them the most. That commitment is why the world’s largest organisations rely on Cloudera to bring AI to their data, wherever it lives,” added Brunnick in a statement.
With these updates, Iceberg REST Catalog provides the open interoperability needed to share data seamlessly, while Lakehouse Optimizer will help to ensure data is always optimised and cost-effective for all engines accessing the data, all under Cloudera’s unified governance and security.
Cloudera is the first and only provider to integrate the Iceberg REST Catalog across a full-lifecycle data and AI platform, enabling secure, zero-copy data sharing and unified governance across any cloud or data centre.
The company’s new offering solves these challenges by integrating the Iceberg REST Catalog into its platform, allowing third-party engines to access Cloudera-managed data directly and ensuring consistent policy enforcement and metadata intelligence in public clouds, data centres, and the edge.
Meanwhile, the Cloudera Lakehouse Optimizer will deliver automated optimisations and table maintenance for Apache Iceberg within Cloudera's lakehouse, offering advanced, intelligent optimisations that go beyond basic table maintenance, including tasks like rewriting manifest and position delete files.
By intelligently optimising tables, it eliminates the need for manual data management tasks and operational costs, allowing customers to focus on extracting insights from their data.
-- BERNAMA
AI TAKES THE WHEEL: 96 PCT ENTERPRISES NOW EMBEDDING AI INTO CORE OPERATIONS
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- Cloudera’s new global report, The Evolution of AI: The State of Enterprise AI and Data Architecture, reveals that 96 per cent of information technology (IT) leaders have integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into their core business processes, up from 88 per cent just a year ago.
This indicates that AI has gone from experimentation to full integration in core processes and workflows, with a striking 70 per cent of organisations reporting significant success from AI initiatives, with only one per cent yet to benefit.
Drawing insights from over 1,500 IT leaders worldwide, the 2025 report examines how AI adoption has accelerated, enterprise data architectures have evolved and new challenges have emerged around securely scaling AI in 2025.
Building on Cloudera’s 2024 study, the report highlights how priorities, obstacles, and goals have shifted in just one year, offering a snapshot of the rapidly changing enterprise AI landscape, exposing that the future will be driven by AI, and AI is fuelled by all data anywhere the data resides.
Cloudera Chief Technology Officer, Sergio Gago in a statement that AI has shifted from a strategic priority to an urgent mandate, adding that innovations like private AI and GPU-powered generative AI behind firewalls are key to this shift.
“But many enterprises are still stuck at the proof-of-concept stage. Cloudera’s mission is to bring AI to all data wherever it resides, with full governance and trust,” he said.
Companies are embracing multiple forms of AI to drive those outcomes, with 60 per cent of enterprises using generative AI, 53 per cent leveraging deep learning, and 50 per cent utilising predictive models. Confidence in diversifying AI is also rising, with 67 per cent of leaders feeling better equipped, especially with emerging AI agents.
Hybrid data architecture is now the standard. Companies are blending cloud and on-premise systems to enhance security (62 per cent), data management (55 per cent), and analytics (54 per cent). Still, challenges persist as data integration and accessibility remain major hurdles, with only nine per cent saying all their data is AI-ready.
The survey debuted at EVOLVE25 NYC, Cloudera’s flagship event series showcasing innovations at the intersection of AI and data.
-- BERNAMA
This indicates that AI has gone from experimentation to full integration in core processes and workflows, with a striking 70 per cent of organisations reporting significant success from AI initiatives, with only one per cent yet to benefit.
Drawing insights from over 1,500 IT leaders worldwide, the 2025 report examines how AI adoption has accelerated, enterprise data architectures have evolved and new challenges have emerged around securely scaling AI in 2025.
Building on Cloudera’s 2024 study, the report highlights how priorities, obstacles, and goals have shifted in just one year, offering a snapshot of the rapidly changing enterprise AI landscape, exposing that the future will be driven by AI, and AI is fuelled by all data anywhere the data resides.
Cloudera Chief Technology Officer, Sergio Gago in a statement that AI has shifted from a strategic priority to an urgent mandate, adding that innovations like private AI and GPU-powered generative AI behind firewalls are key to this shift.
“But many enterprises are still stuck at the proof-of-concept stage. Cloudera’s mission is to bring AI to all data wherever it resides, with full governance and trust,” he said.
Companies are embracing multiple forms of AI to drive those outcomes, with 60 per cent of enterprises using generative AI, 53 per cent leveraging deep learning, and 50 per cent utilising predictive models. Confidence in diversifying AI is also rising, with 67 per cent of leaders feeling better equipped, especially with emerging AI agents.
Hybrid data architecture is now the standard. Companies are blending cloud and on-premise systems to enhance security (62 per cent), data management (55 per cent), and analytics (54 per cent). Still, challenges persist as data integration and accessibility remain major hurdles, with only nine per cent saying all their data is AI-ready.
The survey debuted at EVOLVE25 NYC, Cloudera’s flagship event series showcasing innovations at the intersection of AI and data.
-- BERNAMA
ASANA UNVEILS AI TEAMMATES TO SUPERCHARGE HUMAN-AI COLLABORATION AT WORK
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- Asana, a work management platform for human and artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration, has launched AI Teammates, collaborative agents that understand the context of all work across an organisation and how that work gets done.
These AI agents are not just chatbots with tasks; they are integrated collaborators that learn, adapt, and operate within the broader context of how your business runs.
This comes as research shows 70 per cent of autonomous agents fail at basic tasks, not due to a lack of AI power, but a lack of context.
Asana in a statement said it is fixing that by embedding AI Teammates directly into its Work Graph, giving them memory, structure, and visibility across teams.
“Everyone is building autonomous agents, but autonomy is the wrong goal. Agents can only collaborate effectively with humans if they have access to the company’s operational framework or ‘blueprint’ of who is doing what by when, how, and why.
“Importantly, our approach also gives humans control over how agents access data and consume resources,” said Asana chief executive officer, Dan Rogers.
AI Teammates extend Asana’s existing AI capabilities, which include AI Studio, a no-code builder for AI-powered workflows that handle repeatable, routine tasks at high volume.
What sets AI Teammates apart is their deep understanding of team goals, workflows, and organisational structure, which allows them to operate with full context. They offer transparency through clear, traceable actions and give administrators control over data access, usage, and costs.
Already, these agents are making an impact across departments, from managing campaigns in marketing to streamlining information technology (IT) support, assisting product teams with bug tracking, and coordinating complex launches in operations.
AI Teammates are now available in beta, with general availability expected in the first quarter of fiscal year 2027.
-- BERNAMA
These AI agents are not just chatbots with tasks; they are integrated collaborators that learn, adapt, and operate within the broader context of how your business runs.
This comes as research shows 70 per cent of autonomous agents fail at basic tasks, not due to a lack of AI power, but a lack of context.
Asana in a statement said it is fixing that by embedding AI Teammates directly into its Work Graph, giving them memory, structure, and visibility across teams.
“Everyone is building autonomous agents, but autonomy is the wrong goal. Agents can only collaborate effectively with humans if they have access to the company’s operational framework or ‘blueprint’ of who is doing what by when, how, and why.
“Importantly, our approach also gives humans control over how agents access data and consume resources,” said Asana chief executive officer, Dan Rogers.
AI Teammates extend Asana’s existing AI capabilities, which include AI Studio, a no-code builder for AI-powered workflows that handle repeatable, routine tasks at high volume.
What sets AI Teammates apart is their deep understanding of team goals, workflows, and organisational structure, which allows them to operate with full context. They offer transparency through clear, traceable actions and give administrators control over data access, usage, and costs.
Already, these agents are making an impact across departments, from managing campaigns in marketing to streamlining information technology (IT) support, assisting product teams with bug tracking, and coordinating complex launches in operations.
AI Teammates are now available in beta, with general availability expected in the first quarter of fiscal year 2027.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, September 25, 2025
TOSHIBA UNVEILS HIGH-EFFICIENCY 100V POWER MOSFET FOR DATA CENTRES
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| Toshiba: TPH2R70AR5, a 100V N-channel power MOSFET with the latest generation process technology |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation (Toshiba) has launched “TPH2R70AR5”, a 100-volt (V) N-channel power MOSFET fabricated with U-MOS11-H, Toshiba’s latest-generation process.
Toshiba in a statement said the MOSFET targets applications such as switched-mode power supplies for industrial equipment used in data centres and communications base stations.
The 100V U-MOS11-H series improves on the drain-source On-resistance, total gate charge and the trade-off between them are delivered by Toshiba’s existing generation process, the U-MOSX-H series, reducing both conduction and switching power losses.
In addition, it also offers approximately eight per cent lower drain-source On-resistance and 37 per cent lower total gate charge against TPH3R10AQM, a U-MOSX-H series product.
Toshiba also offers circuit design support tools, the G0 SPICE model, which verifies circuit function in a short time, and the highly accurate G2 SPICE model that accurately reproduces transient characteristics.
A supplier of advanced semiconductor and storage solutions, Toshiba will continue to expand its lineup of low-loss MOSFETs that enable more efficient power supplies and contribute to lower equipment power consumption.
-- BERNAMA
SGMW SHOWCASES INTELLIGENT MANUFACTURING, NEW ENERGY INNOVATIONS AT 22ND ASEAN EXPO
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) concluded its participation at the 22nd ASEAN Expo by unveiling its Intelligent Island Manufacturing System (I²MS), New Energy Technology Matrix, and Starlight 730 Right-Hand Drive (RHD) version under the theme of “Wuling Going Global with New Quality”.
“We are committed to serving local users with the best global technologies. This year’s expo not only marks a shift in China’s automotive industry from exporting products to exporting technology and standards but also opens a new chapter in green and intelligent mobility in the ASEAN region,” said a company representative in a statement.
SGMW highlighted its globally pioneering I²MS, which breaks away from traditional assembly line paradigms. The system’s flexible “static + dynamic” island design increases manufacturing efficiency by 30 per cent, reduces unit costs by 31 per cent, and achieves full lifecycle traceability of product data.
Also featured was the Guangxi New Energy Vehicle Laboratory, developed with eight academicians and over 90 partner institutions. The lab operates under an innovation model of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou + integration in Guangxi + application in ASEAN”, driving forward six technology brands, including SGMW’s Magic Battery.
The company also highlighted its Wonder Flexible Modular System, featuring a five-star safety-rated body structure made of 85 per cent high-strength steel and aluminium alloys and 22.5 per cent hot-formed steel. This is paired with the Magic Battery’s signature five “zero” safety features, including validations such as resistance to fire even under live gunfire.
SGMW officially announced that its next-generation multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the Starlight 730 RHD version, will enter the Indonesian market in the fourth quarter of 2025 under the name Cortez Darion. Equipped with dual powertrain options, electric sliding doors, and a 2,910-millimetre (mm) wheelbase, the model aims to set a new benchmark for Chinese independent brands expanding overseas.
As part of its ASEAN market expansion, SGMW also confirmed that the Bingo EV—its flagship electric model—will officially launch in Malaysia at the end of 2025. In partnership with Tan Chong Moto Group, SGMW aims to offer consumers more personalised, practical, and cost-effective electric vehicle options.
Looking ahead, SGMW plans to further leverage its Wonder Flexible Modular System, Ling Power, and Magic Battery technology platforms to strengthen its technological capabilities and contribute to the development of the ASEAN new energy industry.
-- BERNAMA
“We are committed to serving local users with the best global technologies. This year’s expo not only marks a shift in China’s automotive industry from exporting products to exporting technology and standards but also opens a new chapter in green and intelligent mobility in the ASEAN region,” said a company representative in a statement.
SGMW highlighted its globally pioneering I²MS, which breaks away from traditional assembly line paradigms. The system’s flexible “static + dynamic” island design increases manufacturing efficiency by 30 per cent, reduces unit costs by 31 per cent, and achieves full lifecycle traceability of product data.
Also featured was the Guangxi New Energy Vehicle Laboratory, developed with eight academicians and over 90 partner institutions. The lab operates under an innovation model of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou + integration in Guangxi + application in ASEAN”, driving forward six technology brands, including SGMW’s Magic Battery.
The company also highlighted its Wonder Flexible Modular System, featuring a five-star safety-rated body structure made of 85 per cent high-strength steel and aluminium alloys and 22.5 per cent hot-formed steel. This is paired with the Magic Battery’s signature five “zero” safety features, including validations such as resistance to fire even under live gunfire.
SGMW officially announced that its next-generation multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the Starlight 730 RHD version, will enter the Indonesian market in the fourth quarter of 2025 under the name Cortez Darion. Equipped with dual powertrain options, electric sliding doors, and a 2,910-millimetre (mm) wheelbase, the model aims to set a new benchmark for Chinese independent brands expanding overseas.
As part of its ASEAN market expansion, SGMW also confirmed that the Bingo EV—its flagship electric model—will officially launch in Malaysia at the end of 2025. In partnership with Tan Chong Moto Group, SGMW aims to offer consumers more personalised, practical, and cost-effective electric vehicle options.
Looking ahead, SGMW plans to further leverage its Wonder Flexible Modular System, Ling Power, and Magic Battery technology platforms to strengthen its technological capabilities and contribute to the development of the ASEAN new energy industry.
-- BERNAMA
NORTH ATLANTIC FINALISES DEAL TO ACQUIRE EXXONMOBIL’S STAKE IN ESSO S.A.F. AND EMCF
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- North Atlantic France SAS (North Atlantic) has entered into an agreement with ExxonMobil France Holding SAS (ExxonMobil) to acquire ExxonMobil's entire stake in Esso Société Anonyme Française SA (Esso S.A.F.) and ExxonMobil Chemical France SAS (EMCF).
North Atlantic in a statement said this agreement follows earlier exclusive negotiations and the signing of a put option agreement on May 28.
The acquisition marks an important step in North Atlantic’s project to establish a long-term presence in France, contributing to European energy security, industrial resilience, and energy transition.
“Our commitment to France is long-term. By building on Gravenchon’s record of industrial excellence, we aim to strengthen energy security and resilience while accelerating the transition to lower-carbon solutions.
“This project reflects our ambition to grow the North Atlantic into a premier transatlantic energy company, with strong foundations on both sides of the Atlantic,” said North Atlantic President and Chief Executive Officer and North Atlantic France President, Ted Lomond.
The completion of the project remains subject to customary regulatory conditions applicable to this type of operation, including foreign direct investment control in France and finalisation of certain financing arrangements.
The transaction is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter this year. North Atlantic reiterates its commitment to delivering a comprehensive and well-managed transition, with the intention to maintain employment and existing compensation and benefits.
-- BERNAMA
North Atlantic in a statement said this agreement follows earlier exclusive negotiations and the signing of a put option agreement on May 28.
The acquisition marks an important step in North Atlantic’s project to establish a long-term presence in France, contributing to European energy security, industrial resilience, and energy transition.
“Our commitment to France is long-term. By building on Gravenchon’s record of industrial excellence, we aim to strengthen energy security and resilience while accelerating the transition to lower-carbon solutions.
“This project reflects our ambition to grow the North Atlantic into a premier transatlantic energy company, with strong foundations on both sides of the Atlantic,” said North Atlantic President and Chief Executive Officer and North Atlantic France President, Ted Lomond.
The completion of the project remains subject to customary regulatory conditions applicable to this type of operation, including foreign direct investment control in France and finalisation of certain financing arrangements.
The transaction is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter this year. North Atlantic reiterates its commitment to delivering a comprehensive and well-managed transition, with the intention to maintain employment and existing compensation and benefits.
-- BERNAMA
XSOLLA, AZERBAIJAN JOIN FORCES TO BUILD REGIONAL GAMING INNOVATION HUB
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| Graphic: Xsolla |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Xsolla, a global video game commerce company, has entered strategic talks with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Digital Development and Transport to expand its presence in Baku.
According to a statement, the meeting united Minister Rashad Nabiyev, Xsolla President Chris Hewish, and key officials from Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Innovation and Digital Development Agency.
The discussions centred on expanding cooperation between Azerbaijan and Xsolla, with a focus on transforming Xsolla’s Baku office into a regional research and development (R&D) hub.
In under a year, the office, guided by Dr Fuad Karimov and Rytis Joseph Jan, has grown to over 30 employees and presented a comprehensive plan for sustained momentum.
Hewish said this partnership aligns with Azerbaijan’s vision for digital growth and offers a bridge between local talent and the global gaming market.
Meanwhile, Minister Nabiyev expressed optimism and said: “Transforming the company’s office in Baku into a regional R&D hub is an important step toward creating new opportunities for our talent and strengthening our country’s role in the global digital economy.”
The partnership aims to boost Azerbaijan’s digital expertise by expanding Baku-based operations to sharpen global technical skills, launching joint initiatives with Azerbaijan’s digital and transport sectors, and positioning the Baku office as a regional innovation powerhouse.
This alliance signals a new chapter for Azerbaijan as an emerging player in the international gaming and digital innovation arena.
-- BERNAMA
STUDY SHOWS DENODO BOOSTS DATA LAKEHOUSE WITH HIGHER ROI
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Organisations risked leaving millions of dollars on the table and months-long delays in artificial intelligence (AI) and analytics initiatives by not augmenting their lakehouse investments with a logical data management platform.
Conducted by independent analyst firm Veqtor8, the new study compared the return of investment (ROI) of using the Denodo Platform alongside data lakehouses, such as those provided by Snowflake and Databricks, versus relying on lakehouses alone.
The study found that organisations integrating Denodo with a modern data lakehouse achieved 345 per cent ROI over three years, based on structured stakeholder interviews and industry benchmarks, with cost savings amounting to several million dollars.
In addition, participating organisations received payback in just six and a half months, while also gaining three to four times faster time-to-insight from virtualised data access and a semantic abstraction layer.
In contrast, enterprises attempting to achieve the same outcomes without Denodo were forced into costly custom pipelines, point-to-point integrations, and redundant data governance tools, driving higher engineering effort, longer timelines, and wasted investment.
Denodo senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Ravi Shankar in a statement said the study’s findings are clear that relying on lakehouses alone wastes money and time, jeopardising competitiveness.
“The results show that using Denodo alongside a data lakehouse provides tangible financial benefits that have been realised by Denodo customers,” he said.
To arrive at these findings, Veqtor8 conducted both structured research and in-depth interviews with large companies that use leading data lakehouse platforms both with and without Denodo, quantifying the technical, operational, and financial impact of leveraging Denodo in this configuration.
The report highlights that Denodo enables enterprises to unify governance, simplify data engineering, and deliver AI-ready and business-ready data across silos, without the costly replication and infrastructure delays associated with traditional approaches.
-- BERNAMA
Conducted by independent analyst firm Veqtor8, the new study compared the return of investment (ROI) of using the Denodo Platform alongside data lakehouses, such as those provided by Snowflake and Databricks, versus relying on lakehouses alone.
The study found that organisations integrating Denodo with a modern data lakehouse achieved 345 per cent ROI over three years, based on structured stakeholder interviews and industry benchmarks, with cost savings amounting to several million dollars.
In addition, participating organisations received payback in just six and a half months, while also gaining three to four times faster time-to-insight from virtualised data access and a semantic abstraction layer.
In contrast, enterprises attempting to achieve the same outcomes without Denodo were forced into costly custom pipelines, point-to-point integrations, and redundant data governance tools, driving higher engineering effort, longer timelines, and wasted investment.
Denodo senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Ravi Shankar in a statement said the study’s findings are clear that relying on lakehouses alone wastes money and time, jeopardising competitiveness.
“The results show that using Denodo alongside a data lakehouse provides tangible financial benefits that have been realised by Denodo customers,” he said.
To arrive at these findings, Veqtor8 conducted both structured research and in-depth interviews with large companies that use leading data lakehouse platforms both with and without Denodo, quantifying the technical, operational, and financial impact of leveraging Denodo in this configuration.
The report highlights that Denodo enables enterprises to unify governance, simplify data engineering, and deliver AI-ready and business-ready data across silos, without the costly replication and infrastructure delays associated with traditional approaches.
-- BERNAMA
HEATHROW NAMED WORLD'S MOST CONNECTED AIRPORT FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR – OAG
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- London Heathrow (LHR) has been named the world’s most connected airport for the third year in a row, according to OAG’s Megahubs 2025 report.
Over the past decade, the number of international destinations served at LHR has grown by 24 per cent, underscoring its position as a leading hub for global travellers.
Istanbul Airport (IST) made the biggest leap, climbing from eighth to second place, fuelled by a 25 per cent increase in potential connections—with Turkish Airlines operating 79 per cent of all flights. Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) rounds out an all-European top three, moving up one place.
OAG Chief Analyst, John Grant said Heathrow’s dominance and Istanbul’s rise show the dynamic evolution of air connectivity over the past decade.
The ranking, now in its 10th year, analyses global airport connectivity based on destinations served and flight connections.
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) emerged as the top-ranked low-cost hub globally, tied for fourth place overall and leading in Asia, thanks in part to AirAsia’s dominant 36 per cent share of flights.
In the United States, Chicago O’Hare (ORD) leads in international connectivity, while New York JFK dropped from sixth to 14th. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) remains strong at eighth place.
The Middle East placed three airports in the top 50, with Dubai International (DXB) highest at 15th, while Riyadh (RUH) overtook Doha (DOH) after rising 11 spots.
OAG Megahubs is based on flight data from the 100 largest and 100 largest international airports, measured by total scheduled seats for the year. The rankings are based on flight data from the busiest travel day globally between September 2024 until Aug 1, 2025.
-- BERNAMA
Over the past decade, the number of international destinations served at LHR has grown by 24 per cent, underscoring its position as a leading hub for global travellers.
Istanbul Airport (IST) made the biggest leap, climbing from eighth to second place, fuelled by a 25 per cent increase in potential connections—with Turkish Airlines operating 79 per cent of all flights. Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) rounds out an all-European top three, moving up one place.
OAG Chief Analyst, John Grant said Heathrow’s dominance and Istanbul’s rise show the dynamic evolution of air connectivity over the past decade.
The ranking, now in its 10th year, analyses global airport connectivity based on destinations served and flight connections.
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) emerged as the top-ranked low-cost hub globally, tied for fourth place overall and leading in Asia, thanks in part to AirAsia’s dominant 36 per cent share of flights.
In the United States, Chicago O’Hare (ORD) leads in international connectivity, while New York JFK dropped from sixth to 14th. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) remains strong at eighth place.
The Middle East placed three airports in the top 50, with Dubai International (DXB) highest at 15th, while Riyadh (RUH) overtook Doha (DOH) after rising 11 spots.
OAG Megahubs is based on flight data from the 100 largest and 100 largest international airports, measured by total scheduled seats for the year. The rankings are based on flight data from the busiest travel day globally between September 2024 until Aug 1, 2025.
-- BERNAMA
SILK ROAD INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SETS SAIL IN FUZHOU WITH RECORD GLOBAL PARTICIPATION
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| The launch ceremony of the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival was held in Fuzhou, Fujian |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- The 12th Silk Road International Film Festival opened in grand style on Sept 22 in Fuzhou, Fujian, blending the spirit of the Maritime Silk Road with cinematic artistry and cultural exchange.
Co-hosted by China Media Group and the provincial governments of Fujian and Shaanxi, this year’s festival carries the theme “Silk Road Connects the World, Film Festival Illuminates Fuzhou”.
According to a statement, the event emphasises international exchange, industrial cooperation, public cultural engagement, and cross-strait integration.
The ceremony spotlighted the Maritime Silk Road vibe, cross-strait exchange, and Fuzhou culture, with a stage design featuring a traditional Chinese junk—symbolising cultural journeys and global connectivity—set against a backdrop of music, lights, and visual storytelling.
A major highlight is the Golden Silk Road Awards, which drew over 2,800 entries from 125 countries and regions, including 1,850 films from the Belt and Road nations alone, which is significantly higher than previous sessions.
A jury of 13 esteemed film professionals from seven countries will select winners in 10 categories, including Best Picture and Best Director.
This year also marks the 130th anniversary of world cinema and the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema, reaffirming film’s role in bridging cultures and fostering people-to-people ties.
Since its inception in 2014, the Silk Road International Film Festival has become a vital cultural platform within the Belt and Road Initiative, supporting film industry integration, showcasing local heritage, and nurturing the next generation of cinematic talent.
-- BERNAMA
AWS, SAP PARTNER TO LAUNCH SOVEREIGN CLOUD CAPABILITIES IN EUROPE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Amazon Web Services (AWS) and SAP SE (SAP) have unveiled plans to make SAP Sovereign Cloud capabilities available on the AWS European Sovereign Cloud, a new, independent cloud for Europe backed by a planned 7.8 billion euros investment from Amazon. (1 Euro = RM4.94)
According to a statement, the collaboration builds on the companies’ longstanding partnership and SAP’s comprehensive new approach to digital sovereignty and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation.
AWS vice president of Compute and Machine Learning, David Brown said the company is delighted that SAP Sovereign Cloud capabilities will be available on the AWS European Sovereign Cloud, giving organisations more choice in how they meet their sovereignty requirements while leveraging best-in-class cloud technologies.
SAP Sovereign Cloud capabilities are security-hardened cloud solutions aligned with industry standards for regulated industries and governments.
The collaboration will focus on uniting these capabilities and SAP's deep enterprise expertise with AWS infrastructure and operational expertise to meet customers’ evolving digital sovereignty needs across Europe.
Set to launch its first AWS Region in Brandenburg, Germany, by the end of 2025, the AWS European Sovereign Cloud is designed to give public sector organisations and customers in highly regulated industries further choice.
The offering can help these organisations meet their unique digital sovereignty needs, including data residency, operational autonomy, and resiliency requirements.
SAP Sovereign Cloud on AWS European Sovereign Cloud solutions will initially include SAP Business Technology Platform and SAP Cloud ERP that will provide customers with a secure foundation for managing critical business processes and sensitive data while supporting compliance with relevant regulations.
Both companies have been innovating in the cloud together for more than 16 years, and this new collaboration builds on that history to support customers’ digital sovereignty requirements and accelerate their digital transformation in Europe.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, the collaboration builds on the companies’ longstanding partnership and SAP’s comprehensive new approach to digital sovereignty and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation.
AWS vice president of Compute and Machine Learning, David Brown said the company is delighted that SAP Sovereign Cloud capabilities will be available on the AWS European Sovereign Cloud, giving organisations more choice in how they meet their sovereignty requirements while leveraging best-in-class cloud technologies.
SAP Sovereign Cloud capabilities are security-hardened cloud solutions aligned with industry standards for regulated industries and governments.
The collaboration will focus on uniting these capabilities and SAP's deep enterprise expertise with AWS infrastructure and operational expertise to meet customers’ evolving digital sovereignty needs across Europe.
Set to launch its first AWS Region in Brandenburg, Germany, by the end of 2025, the AWS European Sovereign Cloud is designed to give public sector organisations and customers in highly regulated industries further choice.
The offering can help these organisations meet their unique digital sovereignty needs, including data residency, operational autonomy, and resiliency requirements.
SAP Sovereign Cloud on AWS European Sovereign Cloud solutions will initially include SAP Business Technology Platform and SAP Cloud ERP that will provide customers with a secure foundation for managing critical business processes and sensitive data while supporting compliance with relevant regulations.
Both companies have been innovating in the cloud together for more than 16 years, and this new collaboration builds on that history to support customers’ digital sovereignty requirements and accelerate their digital transformation in Europe.
-- BERNAMA
J-FEC, SANRIO LAUNCH 'HELLO KITTY JAPANESE FRUIT HUNT' TO PROMOTE JAPAN-GROWN PRODUCE
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| “Hello Kitty’s Japanese Fruits Hunt” – Main Visual |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- The Japan Fruit and Vegetables Export Promotion Council (J-FEC) is teaming up with Sanrio Co Ltd and its character Hello Kitty to launch the interactive digital campaign “Hello Kitty Japanese Fruit Hunt”.
According to a statement, “Hello Kitty Japanese Fruit Hunt” is an interactive, smartphone-based scavenger hunt celebrating the freshness of Japan-grown fruits.
Running in three phases from Sept 24, 2025, to Feb 22, 2026, the campaign invites participants to visit real-world locations—such as restaurants, retail stores, and promotional events—where they can scan the official “Japan-Grown Fruit” label using their smartphones.
Each scan earns digital badges, boosting the user's Hunter Rank and unlocking exclusive Hello Kitty digital rewards and giveaways.
The more participants engage—by visiting locations, making purchases, or attending seasonal fairs—the greater their chances of earning limited-edition collectibles and prizes. A dedicated campaign website guides users through the experience.
The campaign is designed to be both fun and educational, offering travellers and locals alike a chance to explore Japan, support local agriculture, and experience the appeal of premium fruits in a gamified way—all with Hello Kitty as their guide.
More details, including participating stores and event updates, can be found on the campaign’s Instagram page and official promotion site.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
HARMAN ACQUIRES SOUND UNITED, EXPANDING GLOBAL AUDIO LEADERSHIP
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| This acquisition brings together Sound United’s respected roster of premium audio brands and Harman’s iconic audio portfolio |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- HARMAN International (HARMAN), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, has completed the acquisition of Sound United, the former consumer audio business of Masimo Corporation.
“Sound United’s impressive roster of brands is rooted in a deep passion for sound, innovation, and commitment to quality that aligns with HARMAN’s own values.
“This transaction unlocks meaningful growth opportunities for everyone. It bolsters HARMAN’s strategy to build on its unparalleled success story and scale to unprecedented heights as an audio leader,” said HARMAN President, Lifestyle Division, Dave Rogers in a statement.
This strategic milestone marks a significant expansion in HARMAN's core audio business and footprint across key product categories, including home audio, electronics, headphones, and car audio.
Combining Sound United’s distinguished portfolio with its renowned audio business, enables HARMAN to deliver comprehensive audio portfolios and is empowered to bring consumers more choice, deeper innovation, and exceptional experiences across listening environments.
Sound United will operate as a standalone Strategic Business Unit (SBU) within HARMAN’s Lifestyle Division to ensure that each brand’s heritage, expertise, and loyal customer base remain central to their identity.
With the backing of HARMAN’s global resources and scale, Sound United’s brands will gain greater reach with enhanced capabilities while continuing to realise their distinct goals and better succeed in the marketplace.
The newly added brands, expertise, and talent from Sound United will hasten HARMAN’s advancements in audio technology, broaden market presence, and reinforce its position as a trusted global leader at the intersection of sound, culture, and technology.
-- BERNAMA
Axi Select Celebrates Two Years with $400M+ in Trader Funding and Breakthrough Success Stories
SYDNEY, Sept 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axi Select, the pioneering trader development and funding program from global online trading broker Axi, is celebrating its second anniversary with a major milestone — surpassing $400 million in allocated trader funding and cementing its position as the industry’s most innovative prop-style broker-backed program.
Since launching in 2023, Axi Select has expanded to support thousands of traders worldwide across multiple regions. Its unique performance-based model has already seen more than five traders reach the ProM stage, each managing $1 million in funding, while its community of over 40,000 traders continue to progress through the program’s milestones.
Milestones at Two Years$400M+ in funding allocated to traders worldwide
Over $10M+ profit payouts
Five traders reaching the ProM $1M funding stage
A growing community of over 40,000 traders
Edge score performance analytics introduced, giving traders objective feedback on risk, consistency, and discipline
MT5 integration, expanding market access and trading tools
A New Standard for Trader Development
Axi Select has distinguished itself by removing the barriers and costs associated with traditional proprietary trading firms. There are no entry fees, rigid elimination challenges, or artificial timelines. Instead, traders grow through the program by demonstrating consistency, discipline, and skill in live markets.
“Over the past two years, we’ve built something truly different with Axi Select,” said Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select. “Our focus is on giving traders a fair and transparent path to scale their careers. Seeing five traders already reach $1 million in funding is proof that with the right tools and support, incredible things are possible.”
Looking Ahead
In its third year, Axi Select plans to expand its trader support ecosystem through:Advanced performance analytics tools, building on the success of Edge score
Enhanced education and mentorship, helping traders build sustainable long-term careers
Ongoing platform innovation, delivering seamless integration across MT5 and Axi’s global infrastructure“At Axi Select, we’re not just funding trades — we’re helping traders grow into professionals,” Rubin added. “The last two years have laid a strong foundation, and we’re excited to see how far our traders can go in year three and beyond.”
About Axi
Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, trusted by thousands of customers in over 100 countries. Axi offers trading across multiple asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, and Commodities.
For more information about Axi Select, visit: https://www.axi.com/int/funded-trader-program
Media enquiries: mediaenquiries@axi.com
The Axi Select program is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content may not be available in your region. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees and minimum deposit apply.
SOURCE: AxiTrader 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
Since launching in 2023, Axi Select has expanded to support thousands of traders worldwide across multiple regions. Its unique performance-based model has already seen more than five traders reach the ProM stage, each managing $1 million in funding, while its community of over 40,000 traders continue to progress through the program’s milestones.
Milestones at Two Years$400M+ in funding allocated to traders worldwide
Over $10M+ profit payouts
Five traders reaching the ProM $1M funding stage
A growing community of over 40,000 traders
Edge score performance analytics introduced, giving traders objective feedback on risk, consistency, and discipline
MT5 integration, expanding market access and trading tools
A New Standard for Trader Development
Axi Select has distinguished itself by removing the barriers and costs associated with traditional proprietary trading firms. There are no entry fees, rigid elimination challenges, or artificial timelines. Instead, traders grow through the program by demonstrating consistency, discipline, and skill in live markets.
“Over the past two years, we’ve built something truly different with Axi Select,” said Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select. “Our focus is on giving traders a fair and transparent path to scale their careers. Seeing five traders already reach $1 million in funding is proof that with the right tools and support, incredible things are possible.”
Looking Ahead
In its third year, Axi Select plans to expand its trader support ecosystem through:Advanced performance analytics tools, building on the success of Edge score
Enhanced education and mentorship, helping traders build sustainable long-term careers
Ongoing platform innovation, delivering seamless integration across MT5 and Axi’s global infrastructure“At Axi Select, we’re not just funding trades — we’re helping traders grow into professionals,” Rubin added. “The last two years have laid a strong foundation, and we’re excited to see how far our traders can go in year three and beyond.”
About Axi
Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, trusted by thousands of customers in over 100 countries. Axi offers trading across multiple asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, and Commodities.
For more information about Axi Select, visit: https://www.axi.com/int/funded-trader-program
Media enquiries: mediaenquiries@axi.com
The Axi Select program is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content may not be available in your region. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees and minimum deposit apply.
SOURCE: AxiTrader 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
OAG: KUALA LUMPUR TOPS ASIA PACIFIC AIRPORTS, LEADING GLOBAL LOW-COST CONNECTIVITY
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) shines as Asia Pacific’s top airport in OAG’s Megahubs 2025 report, ranking joint fourth globally and holding the title of the world’s leading low-cost carrier (LCC) Megahub.
Joining KUL in the global Top 10 are Seoul Incheon (ICN) at sixth and Tokyo Haneda (HND) at ninth, though Haneda slipped from third place last year. Over the past decade, KUL has increased its destinations served by 22 per cent, while ICN recorded a 58 per cent jump in potential connections since 2015.
“The Asia Pacific region has cemented its reputation as a global powerhouse in aviation, balancing world-class full-service hubs with dynamic low-cost connectivity.
“Kuala Lumpur’s dual success as both a global top hub and the world’s leading low-cost Megahub highlights the region’s unique ability to serve travellers across all segments,” said OAG Head of ASPAC, Mayur Patel in a statement.
According to OAG Megahubs, the definitive ranking of the world’s most connected airports, Asia Pacific’s aviation sector is showing growing strength, with three airports in the global Top 10.
The Asia Pacific region leads in both full-service and low-cost segments. KUL, ICN and HND are the three most internationally connected airports in Asia Pacific, with Singapore Changi (SIN) and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) filling out the top five.
Besides KUL, regional Megahub leaders include Delhi (DEL) in South Asia and Sydney (SYD) in the Southwest Pacific.
Asia Pacific also dominates the LCC Megahubs category, home to 16 of the world’s top 25 low-cost hubs. AirAsia’s 36 per cent flight share at KUL plays a key role, while ICN ranks second, Manila (MNL) third, and Hong Kong (HKG) jumps 20 places to fourth, fuelled by Cathay Pacific’s HK Express.
-- BERNAMA
Joining KUL in the global Top 10 are Seoul Incheon (ICN) at sixth and Tokyo Haneda (HND) at ninth, though Haneda slipped from third place last year. Over the past decade, KUL has increased its destinations served by 22 per cent, while ICN recorded a 58 per cent jump in potential connections since 2015.
“The Asia Pacific region has cemented its reputation as a global powerhouse in aviation, balancing world-class full-service hubs with dynamic low-cost connectivity.
“Kuala Lumpur’s dual success as both a global top hub and the world’s leading low-cost Megahub highlights the region’s unique ability to serve travellers across all segments,” said OAG Head of ASPAC, Mayur Patel in a statement.
According to OAG Megahubs, the definitive ranking of the world’s most connected airports, Asia Pacific’s aviation sector is showing growing strength, with three airports in the global Top 10.
The Asia Pacific region leads in both full-service and low-cost segments. KUL, ICN and HND are the three most internationally connected airports in Asia Pacific, with Singapore Changi (SIN) and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) filling out the top five.
Besides KUL, regional Megahub leaders include Delhi (DEL) in South Asia and Sydney (SYD) in the Southwest Pacific.
Asia Pacific also dominates the LCC Megahubs category, home to 16 of the world’s top 25 low-cost hubs. AirAsia’s 36 per cent flight share at KUL plays a key role, while ICN ranks second, Manila (MNL) third, and Hong Kong (HKG) jumps 20 places to fourth, fuelled by Cathay Pacific’s HK Express.
-- BERNAMA
EB5 CAPITAL CLOSES US$42.4 MLN INVESTMENT IN ATLANTA HOUSING PROJECT
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- EB5 Capital has announced the closing of its US$42.4 million investment in Woodfield Development’s Atlanta Woodrow Apartments (JF41) project. (US$1=RM4.19)
In a statement, EB5 Capital Senior Vice President of Investments, Jonathan Mullen said this project is a great example of how the EB-5 Program helps redevelop communities.
“We are proud to be part of a project that will bring over 900 new jobs to a high-unemployment area and contribute to the continued growth of the South Atlanta region,” he said.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the high-unemployment Target Employment Area (TEA) project is a Class A multifamily development featuring 300 units across four modern apartment buildings and 25 townhomes.
The development will include expansive amenity space, including a resort-style pool and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a vibrant gaming courtyard, all complemented by top-of-market interiors and finishes.
Strategically located just 10 miles from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the site offers strong connectivity and proximity to major employers like Coca-Cola, UPS, Delta Airlines, and CNN.
JF41 marks EB5 Capital’s 21st multifamily investment and its second project in Georgia. Construction is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2025, with completion anticipated by the first quarter of 2027.
Headquartered in Washington, DC, EB5 Capital provides qualified foreign investors opportunities to invest in job-creating commercial real estate projects under the United States Immigrant Investor Program (EB-5 Visa Program), raising over US$1 billion of foreign capital across over 45 EB-5 projects.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, EB5 Capital Senior Vice President of Investments, Jonathan Mullen said this project is a great example of how the EB-5 Program helps redevelop communities.
“We are proud to be part of a project that will bring over 900 new jobs to a high-unemployment area and contribute to the continued growth of the South Atlanta region,” he said.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the high-unemployment Target Employment Area (TEA) project is a Class A multifamily development featuring 300 units across four modern apartment buildings and 25 townhomes.
The development will include expansive amenity space, including a resort-style pool and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a vibrant gaming courtyard, all complemented by top-of-market interiors and finishes.
Strategically located just 10 miles from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the site offers strong connectivity and proximity to major employers like Coca-Cola, UPS, Delta Airlines, and CNN.
JF41 marks EB5 Capital’s 21st multifamily investment and its second project in Georgia. Construction is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2025, with completion anticipated by the first quarter of 2027.
Headquartered in Washington, DC, EB5 Capital provides qualified foreign investors opportunities to invest in job-creating commercial real estate projects under the United States Immigrant Investor Program (EB-5 Visa Program), raising over US$1 billion of foreign capital across over 45 EB-5 projects.
-- BERNAMA
MAVENIR TO DEPLOY CORE NETWORK FOR IRIDIUM'S GLOBAL SATELLITE, DIRECT-TO-DEVICE SERVICES
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- Mavenir, the cloud-native network infrastructure provider, has been selected by Iridium Communications Inc to deploy the core network of its Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), helping to enable 3GPP-based Direct-to-Device (D2D) services.
In support of Iridium NTN Direct, Mavenir will deliver its fully containerised, cloud-native Converged Packet Core solution, hosted in Iridium’s Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud environment.
According to Mavenir in a statement, the deployment supports Iridium’s strategy to offer 3GPP standards-based NTN capabilities over its existing satellite network while maintaining readiness for future D2D offerings.
Mavenir President of Core Networks, Ashok Khuntia said the collaboration with Iridium is a strategic milestone in the company’s mission to enable seamless connectivity across terrestrial and non-terrestrial domains.
“By deploying our cloud-native Converged Packet Core on AWS, we are helping Iridium deliver global NB-IoT services today. It is a powerful demonstration of how Mavenir’s flexible, scalable core solutions can adapt to meet the evolving needs of satellite-driven networks,” he said.
Meanwhile, Iridium Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Tim Last lauds the partnership with Mavenir and says its NTN Direct will provide a global, reliable, and future-ready solution for mobile network operators, chipmakers, and consumers worldwide.
Designed for high availability and geo-redundancy across multiple AWS regions, Mavenir’s solution includes a full suite of core network functions, such as Converged Session Management Function, Converged User Plane Function, and Policy Control.
This latest win enhances Mavenir’s growing NTN portfolio and highlights its ability to enable satellite operators with proven, standards-compliant packet core solutions that are optimised for cloud-native deployment environments.
-- BERNAMA
In support of Iridium NTN Direct, Mavenir will deliver its fully containerised, cloud-native Converged Packet Core solution, hosted in Iridium’s Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud environment.
According to Mavenir in a statement, the deployment supports Iridium’s strategy to offer 3GPP standards-based NTN capabilities over its existing satellite network while maintaining readiness for future D2D offerings.
Mavenir President of Core Networks, Ashok Khuntia said the collaboration with Iridium is a strategic milestone in the company’s mission to enable seamless connectivity across terrestrial and non-terrestrial domains.
“By deploying our cloud-native Converged Packet Core on AWS, we are helping Iridium deliver global NB-IoT services today. It is a powerful demonstration of how Mavenir’s flexible, scalable core solutions can adapt to meet the evolving needs of satellite-driven networks,” he said.
Meanwhile, Iridium Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Tim Last lauds the partnership with Mavenir and says its NTN Direct will provide a global, reliable, and future-ready solution for mobile network operators, chipmakers, and consumers worldwide.
Designed for high availability and geo-redundancy across multiple AWS regions, Mavenir’s solution includes a full suite of core network functions, such as Converged Session Management Function, Converged User Plane Function, and Policy Control.
This latest win enhances Mavenir’s growing NTN portfolio and highlights its ability to enable satellite operators with proven, standards-compliant packet core solutions that are optimised for cloud-native deployment environments.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
NIKESKIMS LAUNCHES ACTIVEWEAR BRAND FOR WOMEN, DEBUTS FIRST COLLECTION SEPT 26
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Nike Inc and SKIMS have unveiled their first-ever joint brand, NikeSKIMS, a women’s activewear line set to launch globally on Sept 26, combining Nike’s performance innovation with SKIMS’ body-conscious design aesthetic.
Designed to “sculpt and perform without compromise”, the collection marks a new chapter in women’s sportswear, catering to both elite athletes and everyday consumers. The inaugural drop includes seven collections and 58 silhouettes, offering more than 10,000 outfit combinations across workout and lifestyle wear.
The brand made its debut through a campaign film titled Bodies at Work, directed by Janicza Bravo, featuring iconic athletes including Serena Williams, Sha’Carri Richardson, Chloe Kim, and Jordan Chiles, alongside college athletes and SKIMS co-founder and chief creative officer, Kim Kardashian.
“NikeSKIMS is a bold evolution in how women experience sport and style—and together with SKIMS, we are delivering what no other brand can,” said Nike president, Amy Montagne.
Meanwhile, SKIMS co-founder and chief executive officer, Jens Grede said NikeSKIMS is more than a collaboration—it is a new brand redefining activewear, adding: “We are establishing a global platform that combines technical innovation with cultural relevance.”
NikeSKIMS launches with three core lines—Matte, Shine, and Airy—each built with Nike's signature Dri-FIT technology, offering sculpting, compression, and breathability. Four seasonal collections, including Vintage Seamless and Weightless Layers, provide added versatility for low- and high-impact activity.
According to a statement, the new label represents a strategic step in Nike’s plan to grow its women’s business while expanding SKIMS’ footprint in performance apparel.
The launch aligns with Nike’s broader initiative to inspire and support women through performance-led design and inclusive storytelling.
The first NikeSKIMS collection will be available from Sept 26 at nike.com/NikeSKIMS, SKIMS.com/NikeSKIMS, and select Nike and SKIMS flagship stores in New York and Los Angeles.
-- BERNAMA
Designed to “sculpt and perform without compromise”, the collection marks a new chapter in women’s sportswear, catering to both elite athletes and everyday consumers. The inaugural drop includes seven collections and 58 silhouettes, offering more than 10,000 outfit combinations across workout and lifestyle wear.
The brand made its debut through a campaign film titled Bodies at Work, directed by Janicza Bravo, featuring iconic athletes including Serena Williams, Sha’Carri Richardson, Chloe Kim, and Jordan Chiles, alongside college athletes and SKIMS co-founder and chief creative officer, Kim Kardashian.
“NikeSKIMS is a bold evolution in how women experience sport and style—and together with SKIMS, we are delivering what no other brand can,” said Nike president, Amy Montagne.
Meanwhile, SKIMS co-founder and chief executive officer, Jens Grede said NikeSKIMS is more than a collaboration—it is a new brand redefining activewear, adding: “We are establishing a global platform that combines technical innovation with cultural relevance.”
NikeSKIMS launches with three core lines—Matte, Shine, and Airy—each built with Nike's signature Dri-FIT technology, offering sculpting, compression, and breathability. Four seasonal collections, including Vintage Seamless and Weightless Layers, provide added versatility for low- and high-impact activity.
According to a statement, the new label represents a strategic step in Nike’s plan to grow its women’s business while expanding SKIMS’ footprint in performance apparel.
The launch aligns with Nike’s broader initiative to inspire and support women through performance-led design and inclusive storytelling.
The first NikeSKIMS collection will be available from Sept 26 at nike.com/NikeSKIMS, SKIMS.com/NikeSKIMS, and select Nike and SKIMS flagship stores in New York and Los Angeles.
-- BERNAMA
ANGELINI PHARMA PARTNER SOVARGEN TO DEVELOP, COMMERCIALISE INNOVATIVE BRAIN HEALTH ASSET
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Angelini Pharma, part of Angelini Industries, and Sovargen, a South Korean biotechnology company, have signed an exclusive global option agreement to co-develop and commercialise SVG105, an innovative brain health asset.
Under the terms of the agreement, Angelini Pharma and Sovargen will collaboratively lead the preclinical development efforts for SVG105, and, following an initial option period, Angelini Pharma will have the right to advance the compound into clinical development and commercialisation outside of the Republic of Korea, China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
According to a statement, Sovargen will receive upfront and milestone payments totalling up to approximately US$550 million, as well as tiered royalties on post-approval net sales. (US$1=RM4.18)
“Neurological disorders like epilepsy remain a major global challenge, with many patients resistant to existing therapies.
“Our partnership with Sovargen aims to bring new hope to patients through innovative treatment options,” said Angelini Pharma chief executive officer (CEO), Jacopo Andreose.
Meanwhile, Sovargen CEO, Cheolwon Park added: “We are excited to leverage Angelini Pharma’s expertise to advance SVG105 toward transformative therapies for brain health.”
SVG105 is a potentially first-in-class antisense oligonucleotide designed to modulate mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a genetically validated target for a number of brain health disorders, including drug-resistant childhood epilepsy.
This collaboration strengthens Angelini Pharma’s expanding brain health portfolio, which already includes partnerships and assets targeting rare genetic epilepsies, CNS disorders, and biologics crossing the blood-brain barrier.
Brain health disorders affect millions worldwide, carrying heavy social and economic burdens. Epilepsy alone impacts around 50 million people globally, with up to 40 per cent not achieving seizure control despite treatment.
This agreement underscores Angelini Pharma’s commitment to addressing unmet needs in neurological diseases through diversified and cutting-edge therapeutic modalities.
-- BERNAMA
Under the terms of the agreement, Angelini Pharma and Sovargen will collaboratively lead the preclinical development efforts for SVG105, and, following an initial option period, Angelini Pharma will have the right to advance the compound into clinical development and commercialisation outside of the Republic of Korea, China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
According to a statement, Sovargen will receive upfront and milestone payments totalling up to approximately US$550 million, as well as tiered royalties on post-approval net sales. (US$1=RM4.18)
“Neurological disorders like epilepsy remain a major global challenge, with many patients resistant to existing therapies.
“Our partnership with Sovargen aims to bring new hope to patients through innovative treatment options,” said Angelini Pharma chief executive officer (CEO), Jacopo Andreose.
Meanwhile, Sovargen CEO, Cheolwon Park added: “We are excited to leverage Angelini Pharma’s expertise to advance SVG105 toward transformative therapies for brain health.”
SVG105 is a potentially first-in-class antisense oligonucleotide designed to modulate mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a genetically validated target for a number of brain health disorders, including drug-resistant childhood epilepsy.
This collaboration strengthens Angelini Pharma’s expanding brain health portfolio, which already includes partnerships and assets targeting rare genetic epilepsies, CNS disorders, and biologics crossing the blood-brain barrier.
Brain health disorders affect millions worldwide, carrying heavy social and economic burdens. Epilepsy alone impacts around 50 million people globally, with up to 40 per cent not achieving seizure control despite treatment.
This agreement underscores Angelini Pharma’s commitment to addressing unmet needs in neurological diseases through diversified and cutting-edge therapeutic modalities.
-- BERNAMA
WESTART 2025 ENTREPRENEURIAL INVESTMENT CONFERENCE DEBUTS AT PUJIANG INNOVATION FORUM
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- The WeStart 2025 Entrepreneurial Investment Conference kicked off on Sept 21 in Shanghai as a major highlight of the 18th Pujiang Innovation Forum, with a focus on accelerating early-stage innovation through global investment and collaboration.
Held under the theme "Innovate Forward & Build Together", the event created a multi-tiered, international investment-financing platform through a conference, competition, and exhibition — aiming to match global capital with promising sci-tech ventures.
According to a statement, the WeStart initiative is part of efforts to reinforce Shanghai’s role as an international hub for sci-tech entrepreneurship and capital convergence.
The conference saw the official launch of the WeStart Early-Stage & Small-Scale Investment Alliance, co-founded by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology alongside major investment firms, central enterprises, and ecosystem partners.
The alliance is designed to fast-track early-stage achievements through the WeStart TOP 100 Startup Competition.
This year’s competition attracted 1,487 teams worldwide across four frontier sectors, namely biomedicine, integrated circuits, artificial intelligence (AI), and future industries, including 71 overseas projects. From these, 100 top projects advanced to the final roadshow rounds.
Over two days, the forum hosted a series of matching and showcase activities focused on tech transfer and venture financing, forming a full-chain innovation service model to promote the transformation of scientific and technological breakthroughs.
As part of the event, the cross-border sci-tech matchmaking session connected more than 30 overseas projects from nine countries, including Malaysia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with Shanghai-based investors, covering fields such as clean tech, AI+ enterprise services, digital health, and fintech.
-- BERNAMA
Held under the theme "Innovate Forward & Build Together", the event created a multi-tiered, international investment-financing platform through a conference, competition, and exhibition — aiming to match global capital with promising sci-tech ventures.
According to a statement, the WeStart initiative is part of efforts to reinforce Shanghai’s role as an international hub for sci-tech entrepreneurship and capital convergence.
The conference saw the official launch of the WeStart Early-Stage & Small-Scale Investment Alliance, co-founded by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology alongside major investment firms, central enterprises, and ecosystem partners.
The alliance is designed to fast-track early-stage achievements through the WeStart TOP 100 Startup Competition.
This year’s competition attracted 1,487 teams worldwide across four frontier sectors, namely biomedicine, integrated circuits, artificial intelligence (AI), and future industries, including 71 overseas projects. From these, 100 top projects advanced to the final roadshow rounds.
Over two days, the forum hosted a series of matching and showcase activities focused on tech transfer and venture financing, forming a full-chain innovation service model to promote the transformation of scientific and technological breakthroughs.
As part of the event, the cross-border sci-tech matchmaking session connected more than 30 overseas projects from nine countries, including Malaysia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with Shanghai-based investors, covering fields such as clean tech, AI+ enterprise services, digital health, and fintech.
-- BERNAMA
PHELON & MOORE, PININFARINA UNVEIL LIMITED EDITION CAPETOWN 7X MOTORCYCLE AT EICMA 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- British motorcycle maker Phelon & Moore has teamed up with legendary Italian design house Pininfarina to unveil the Capetown 7X, a limited edition, numbered adventure motorcycle, set to debut at EICMA 2025 in Milan, taking place from Nov 6 to 9.
Capped at just 595 units, the Capetown 7X marks a celebration of Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary and brings automotive design heritage into the world of two wheels, according to Phelon & Moore in a statement.
Known for designing some of the most iconic cars in history, including models for Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati, Pininfarina now brings its signature Italian aesthetic and wind-tunnel expertise to a bespoke motorcycle platform.
"Built for everything, designed for the few", the Capetown 7X is developed from Phelon & Moore’s flagship Capetown adventure motorcycle, reimagined with aerodynamically engineered components, premium materials, and commemorative livery that reflects the performance and artistry of both brands.
The unveiling will take place at the Phelon & Moore booth during EICMA 2025. In a nod to Pininfarina’s automotive legacy, the Battista hypercar, one of the world’s most exclusive electric vehicles, will also be showcased at the booth, reinforcing the partnership’s high-performance DNA.
Motorcycle enthusiasts can now register for the Capetown 7X waiting list via phelonandmoore.com, while global distributors are invited to book meetings during EICMA to explore strategic business opportunities.
-- BERNAMA
Capped at just 595 units, the Capetown 7X marks a celebration of Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary and brings automotive design heritage into the world of two wheels, according to Phelon & Moore in a statement.
Known for designing some of the most iconic cars in history, including models for Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati, Pininfarina now brings its signature Italian aesthetic and wind-tunnel expertise to a bespoke motorcycle platform.
"Built for everything, designed for the few", the Capetown 7X is developed from Phelon & Moore’s flagship Capetown adventure motorcycle, reimagined with aerodynamically engineered components, premium materials, and commemorative livery that reflects the performance and artistry of both brands.
The unveiling will take place at the Phelon & Moore booth during EICMA 2025. In a nod to Pininfarina’s automotive legacy, the Battista hypercar, one of the world’s most exclusive electric vehicles, will also be showcased at the booth, reinforcing the partnership’s high-performance DNA.
Motorcycle enthusiasts can now register for the Capetown 7X waiting list via phelonandmoore.com, while global distributors are invited to book meetings during EICMA to explore strategic business opportunities.
-- BERNAMA
GANGNAM AT 50: K-POP, FASHION, AND CULTURE TAKE CENTRE STAGE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Gangnam-gu is gearing up to celebrate its 50th anniversary with the 14th annual Gangnam Festival, running Sept 25 to Oct 3 across iconic venues like COEX, Yeongdong-daero, and Maru Park.
According to a statement, this year’s expanded K-Culture extravaganza features 10 signature programmes blending music, fashion, cuisine, and sports.
Highlights include star-studded K-Pop concerts with acts like god, BTOB, and SF9; a fashion festa showcasing the latest trends; and a Gourmet Tour & K-Culture Zone offering global flavours alongside cultural experiences.
Gangnam-gu Mayor Cho Sung-myung declared: “The Gangnam Festival is Korea’s premier global city festival, sharing the spirit of K-Culture with the world.
“In celebration of the district’s 50th anniversary, we are presenting a festival that everyone can enjoy, and we will continue to strengthen Gangnam’s position as the heart of Hallyu culture.”
The festival kicks off at COEX East Square on Sept 26 with an Opening Ceremony and Vision Proclamation. Fans can enjoy the Yeongdong-daero K-Pop Concert on the 27th, followed by the HEY Gangnam Family Concert spotlighting 1990s icons on the 28th.
Fringe performances like tightrope walking, busking, and dance covers enliven hotspots such as Gangnam Station and Apgujeong Rodeo Street from Sept 25 to 28. Maru Park will host a Music Picnic, while the KBS Open Concert takes place at Jamwon Hangang Park on Oct 2.
The festival culminates with the HEY Gangnam International Peace Marathon, drawing an expected 10,000 participants, and the Bongeunsa Temple Music Concert on Oct 3.
To welcome global visitors, exclusive travel packages and special merchandise are available through partnerships with the Korea Tourism Organization and Trip.com, while select events will be live-streamed worldwide on KBS World’s YouTube channel.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, this year’s expanded K-Culture extravaganza features 10 signature programmes blending music, fashion, cuisine, and sports.
Highlights include star-studded K-Pop concerts with acts like god, BTOB, and SF9; a fashion festa showcasing the latest trends; and a Gourmet Tour & K-Culture Zone offering global flavours alongside cultural experiences.
Gangnam-gu Mayor Cho Sung-myung declared: “The Gangnam Festival is Korea’s premier global city festival, sharing the spirit of K-Culture with the world.
“In celebration of the district’s 50th anniversary, we are presenting a festival that everyone can enjoy, and we will continue to strengthen Gangnam’s position as the heart of Hallyu culture.”
The festival kicks off at COEX East Square on Sept 26 with an Opening Ceremony and Vision Proclamation. Fans can enjoy the Yeongdong-daero K-Pop Concert on the 27th, followed by the HEY Gangnam Family Concert spotlighting 1990s icons on the 28th.
Fringe performances like tightrope walking, busking, and dance covers enliven hotspots such as Gangnam Station and Apgujeong Rodeo Street from Sept 25 to 28. Maru Park will host a Music Picnic, while the KBS Open Concert takes place at Jamwon Hangang Park on Oct 2.
The festival culminates with the HEY Gangnam International Peace Marathon, drawing an expected 10,000 participants, and the Bongeunsa Temple Music Concert on Oct 3.
To welcome global visitors, exclusive travel packages and special merchandise are available through partnerships with the Korea Tourism Organization and Trip.com, while select events will be live-streamed worldwide on KBS World’s YouTube channel.
-- BERNAMA
COVENTRY MARKS LIFE INSURANCE AWARENESS MONTH WITH RENEWED FOCUS ON POLICYOWNER VALUE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Coventry, the pioneer of the secondary market for life insurance, is celebrating Life Insurance Awareness Month by reaffirming its commitment to turning life insurance into a more flexible and valuable financial asset for policyowners.
“Life insurance is one of the most valuable assets people own, safeguarding loved ones, fuelling dreams, and adapting to life’s changes.
“By creating a vibrant secondary market, we have shown policyowners that life insurance is a flexible asset that can maximise returns and deliver lasting value,” said Coventry chief executive officer, Reid Buerger in a statement.
For over 20 years, Coventry has transformed how life insurance is perceived and used, delivering more than US$6 billion to individuals for policies that might otherwise have been surrendered or lapsed. (US$1=RM4.18)
Life Insurance Awareness Month highlights insurance’s critical role in family protection, retirement, and estate planning. Coventry remains committed to ensuring that life insurance fulfils its extraordinary promise—delivering security, flexibility, and value at every stage of life.
-- BERNAMA
“Life insurance is one of the most valuable assets people own, safeguarding loved ones, fuelling dreams, and adapting to life’s changes.
“By creating a vibrant secondary market, we have shown policyowners that life insurance is a flexible asset that can maximise returns and deliver lasting value,” said Coventry chief executive officer, Reid Buerger in a statement.
For over 20 years, Coventry has transformed how life insurance is perceived and used, delivering more than US$6 billion to individuals for policies that might otherwise have been surrendered or lapsed. (US$1=RM4.18)
Life Insurance Awareness Month highlights insurance’s critical role in family protection, retirement, and estate planning. Coventry remains committed to ensuring that life insurance fulfils its extraordinary promise—delivering security, flexibility, and value at every stage of life.
-- BERNAMA
CHINA, SINGAPORE DOUBLE DOWN ON GREEN CITIES AT TIANJIN FORUM
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Over 300 delegates from government, industry associations, academia, and business recently converged at the China-Singapore Green Development Forum to chart a path for greener, smarter urban futures.
Hosted in the China-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City—a flagship bilateral project—the forum emphasised deepening cooperation in sustainable city-building under the theme "China and Singapore build the cornerstone of green development, deepen cooperation on the construction of new cities".
The gathering this year marked a significant milestone. Following the State Council’s August 2024 approval of a long-term green development plan, the Eco-City is now set to become a national benchmark for low-carbon urbanisation through 2035.
In a statement, the Eco-City’s administrative committee director, Wang Guoliang said the region is committed to upgrading itself into an enhanced version of a national green development demonstration zone.
The region leverages six key pillars -- including green and low-carbon industrial development and green and low-carbon energy transition -- and 247 targeted implementation measures to drive the integrated leap forward of its "five core dimensions", namely industry, ecology, intelligence, openness, and vitality.
The Eco-City is not only planning but also performing — recording a robust 11.2 per cent gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the first half of this year, a signal of green policies driving economic momentum.
Several significant cooperation outcomes were reached between China and Singapore during the forum. The Singapore-based international demonstration centre for green and low-carbon building was officially inaugurated.
Meanwhile, the international alliance for green and low-carbon building technology cooperation and the China-Singapore alliance for culture, tourism and education cooperation were launched in tandem.
-- BERNAMA
Hosted in the China-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City—a flagship bilateral project—the forum emphasised deepening cooperation in sustainable city-building under the theme "China and Singapore build the cornerstone of green development, deepen cooperation on the construction of new cities".
The gathering this year marked a significant milestone. Following the State Council’s August 2024 approval of a long-term green development plan, the Eco-City is now set to become a national benchmark for low-carbon urbanisation through 2035.
In a statement, the Eco-City’s administrative committee director, Wang Guoliang said the region is committed to upgrading itself into an enhanced version of a national green development demonstration zone.
The region leverages six key pillars -- including green and low-carbon industrial development and green and low-carbon energy transition -- and 247 targeted implementation measures to drive the integrated leap forward of its "five core dimensions", namely industry, ecology, intelligence, openness, and vitality.
The Eco-City is not only planning but also performing — recording a robust 11.2 per cent gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the first half of this year, a signal of green policies driving economic momentum.
Several significant cooperation outcomes were reached between China and Singapore during the forum. The Singapore-based international demonstration centre for green and low-carbon building was officially inaugurated.
Meanwhile, the international alliance for green and low-carbon building technology cooperation and the China-Singapore alliance for culture, tourism and education cooperation were launched in tandem.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, September 22, 2025
OPEC FUND APPROVES OVER US$1 BLN FOR GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) has approved over US$1 billion in new development financing during the third quarter of 2025, as announced following its 193rd Governing Board meeting. (US$1=RM4.20)
The institution also successfully issued its first-ever euro-denominated benchmark bond, raising 500 million euros on international capital markets, in a landmark move to further strengthen its development mandate.
“The new approvals, alongside our inaugural euro benchmark bond, are a clear demonstration of our commitment to delivering more for our partner countries.
“As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2026, these twin milestones highlight our ability to innovate, grow and drive transformational impact for decades to come,” said OPEC Fund President, Abdulhamid Alkhalifa in a statement.
The recently approved operations will support transformative projects across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, spanning health, education, clean energy, water and sanitation, sustainable livelihoods and resilient infrastructure.
The newly approved public sector financing will support a wide range of transformative projects across various regions. In El Salvador, a US$70 million loan will co-finance the second phase of the Surf City Program, aimed at road upgrades, sanitation expansion, and climate resilience in La Libertad’s tourism zone.
Eswatini is receiving US$50 million to implement fiscal reforms and strengthen competitiveness, while Papua New Guinea will benefit from a similar amount to improve early education and teacher training. In South Africa, the OPEC Fund is providing US$150 million to modernise infrastructure and advance energy reforms in support of a low-carbon transition.
On the private sector front, Egypt is receiving US$40 million for a large-scale solar-plus-storage facility in Aswan, one of the largest in Africa. Bangladesh is being allocated US$30 million to improve access to trade finance for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in agribusiness.
Additional funding includes US$25 million to Jordan to scale up MSME and climate lending, US$50 million to Oman for an industrial facility producing renewable energy inputs, and US$25 million to Paraguay as part of a larger syndicated facility aimed at SME development with a focus on women-led businesses.
The success of the Euro benchmark bond marks a milestone in the OPEC Fund’s funding strategy, broadening its investor base and reinforcing its position as a credible and innovative development finance institution.
The proceeds of the bond will be used to finance and refinance projects aligned with the OPEC Fund’s development mandate, with a strong focus on sustainability and long-term impact.
-- BERNAMA
The institution also successfully issued its first-ever euro-denominated benchmark bond, raising 500 million euros on international capital markets, in a landmark move to further strengthen its development mandate.
“The new approvals, alongside our inaugural euro benchmark bond, are a clear demonstration of our commitment to delivering more for our partner countries.
“As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2026, these twin milestones highlight our ability to innovate, grow and drive transformational impact for decades to come,” said OPEC Fund President, Abdulhamid Alkhalifa in a statement.
The recently approved operations will support transformative projects across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, spanning health, education, clean energy, water and sanitation, sustainable livelihoods and resilient infrastructure.
The newly approved public sector financing will support a wide range of transformative projects across various regions. In El Salvador, a US$70 million loan will co-finance the second phase of the Surf City Program, aimed at road upgrades, sanitation expansion, and climate resilience in La Libertad’s tourism zone.
Eswatini is receiving US$50 million to implement fiscal reforms and strengthen competitiveness, while Papua New Guinea will benefit from a similar amount to improve early education and teacher training. In South Africa, the OPEC Fund is providing US$150 million to modernise infrastructure and advance energy reforms in support of a low-carbon transition.
On the private sector front, Egypt is receiving US$40 million for a large-scale solar-plus-storage facility in Aswan, one of the largest in Africa. Bangladesh is being allocated US$30 million to improve access to trade finance for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in agribusiness.
Additional funding includes US$25 million to Jordan to scale up MSME and climate lending, US$50 million to Oman for an industrial facility producing renewable energy inputs, and US$25 million to Paraguay as part of a larger syndicated facility aimed at SME development with a focus on women-led businesses.
The success of the Euro benchmark bond marks a milestone in the OPEC Fund’s funding strategy, broadening its investor base and reinforcing its position as a credible and innovative development finance institution.
The proceeds of the bond will be used to finance and refinance projects aligned with the OPEC Fund’s development mandate, with a strong focus on sustainability and long-term impact.
-- BERNAMA
MAVENIR BAGS FUTURENET ASIA AWARD WITH AI-POWERED FRAUD DEFENCE SOLUTIONS
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- Mavenir, the cloud-native network infrastructure provider, has garnered a major industry accolade for its customer-centric artificial intelligence (AI) innovation in voice and messaging security at the FutureNet Asia Awards 2025.
Winning the coveted ‘Customer Experience’ award, which honours the most innovative AI application to enhance mobile users’ experience, Mavenir was recognised for its AI-powered Fraud and Security Suite that incorporates the company’s globally deployed SpamShield and CallShield technology.
Mavenir Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific, Jan Schaar in a statement said the company’s AI-driven security solutions offer seamless protection, ensuring that every call and message strengthens trust between operator and customer.
“Leveraging the latest AI technologies, Mavenir is providing a scalable, cloud-native security suite to protect network integrity, subscriber peace of mind and revenue across SMS and voice services, delivering the robust and effective real-time capabilities operators need as fraudsters themselves evolve their tactics using AI,” he said.
Mavenir’s highly integrated Fraud and Security Suite empowers communication service providers (CSPs) with proactive, AI-driven security to help defend against messaging and voice fraud in real time.
According to Mavenir, in a standout implementation for Australia’s TPG Telecom, CallShield paired with SpamShield succeeded in blocking almost 19 million fraudulent voice calls in the first half of 2024 and preventing delivery of over 59.6 million scam SMS.
With fraud and nuisance calls continuing to undermine trust in mobile communications, Mavenir’s Fraud and Security Suite is redefining customer experience, safety and reliability for mobile users.
Mavenir’s SpamShield message fraud defence solution proactively blocks up to 90 per cent of spam and fraudulent messages, while its CallShield solution offers operators new abilities to neutralise voice-based threats before they reach the customer.
The FutureNet Asia awards celebrate outstanding automation and AI innovation across the Asia-Pacific telecom sector, celebrating exceptional achievements in solution areas including AI for IT Operations (AIOps), orchestration and customer experience.
-- BERNAMA
Winning the coveted ‘Customer Experience’ award, which honours the most innovative AI application to enhance mobile users’ experience, Mavenir was recognised for its AI-powered Fraud and Security Suite that incorporates the company’s globally deployed SpamShield and CallShield technology.
Mavenir Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific, Jan Schaar in a statement said the company’s AI-driven security solutions offer seamless protection, ensuring that every call and message strengthens trust between operator and customer.
“Leveraging the latest AI technologies, Mavenir is providing a scalable, cloud-native security suite to protect network integrity, subscriber peace of mind and revenue across SMS and voice services, delivering the robust and effective real-time capabilities operators need as fraudsters themselves evolve their tactics using AI,” he said.
Mavenir’s highly integrated Fraud and Security Suite empowers communication service providers (CSPs) with proactive, AI-driven security to help defend against messaging and voice fraud in real time.
According to Mavenir, in a standout implementation for Australia’s TPG Telecom, CallShield paired with SpamShield succeeded in blocking almost 19 million fraudulent voice calls in the first half of 2024 and preventing delivery of over 59.6 million scam SMS.
With fraud and nuisance calls continuing to undermine trust in mobile communications, Mavenir’s Fraud and Security Suite is redefining customer experience, safety and reliability for mobile users.
Mavenir’s SpamShield message fraud defence solution proactively blocks up to 90 per cent of spam and fraudulent messages, while its CallShield solution offers operators new abilities to neutralise voice-based threats before they reach the customer.
The FutureNet Asia awards celebrate outstanding automation and AI innovation across the Asia-Pacific telecom sector, celebrating exceptional achievements in solution areas including AI for IT Operations (AIOps), orchestration and customer experience.
-- BERNAMA
CGTN: PENG LIYUAN CALLS FOR WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SCIENCE EDUCATION
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- The 2025 UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education was awarded recently in Beijing, marking the 10th anniversary of the global prize and underscored the vital role of science and technology education in equipping young women for leadership in an artificial intelligence-driven future.
Projects from Kenya and Lebanon have been honoured with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Prize for Girls' and Women's Education for their contributions to advancing access to quality education for girls and young women.
They join a growing list of impactful initiatives celebrated by UNESCO, including the Promoting Equality in African Schools (PEAS) programme and the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) in Zambia. These initiatives have improved conditions for hundreds of thousands of girls in rural communities, offering safer, more inclusive schools and equipping graduates with skills in leadership and community service.
The event, attended by wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping and UNESCO special envoy for the advancement of girls' and women's education, Peng Liyuan, and UNESCO director-general, Audrey Azoulay, presented the awards to the two programmes.
“We must place greater emphasis on women's science education. We must strive to ensure that women can embrace the technological revolution and create fulfilled lives," said Peng, who also called for women to be equipped with knowledge, technological skills and innovative capacity.
Meanwhile, Azoulay thanked China for its long-standing support for UNESCO and its global efforts to empower women and girls.
A white paper released by China’s State Council Information Office stated that over 200,000 women from more than 180 countries and regions have benefited from China-supported training and development initiatives.
According to China Global Television Network (CGTN) in a statement, China's achievements in promoting women's all-round development, particularly in education, reinforce Peng's message.
China’s progress in narrowing gender gaps in education was also highlighted. By 2024, women accounted 50.76 per cent of higher education enrolment in China, up 14.15 percentage points from 1995, according to official data. Girls now make up nearly half of all students from kindergarten to high school.
Beyond statistics, the country has also launched a series of programmes to encourage girls' participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including the “Exploring the Future” programme, which has introduced over 8,000 girls to university laboratories and real-world scientific research.
-- BERNAMA
Projects from Kenya and Lebanon have been honoured with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Prize for Girls' and Women's Education for their contributions to advancing access to quality education for girls and young women.
They join a growing list of impactful initiatives celebrated by UNESCO, including the Promoting Equality in African Schools (PEAS) programme and the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) in Zambia. These initiatives have improved conditions for hundreds of thousands of girls in rural communities, offering safer, more inclusive schools and equipping graduates with skills in leadership and community service.
The event, attended by wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping and UNESCO special envoy for the advancement of girls' and women's education, Peng Liyuan, and UNESCO director-general, Audrey Azoulay, presented the awards to the two programmes.
“We must place greater emphasis on women's science education. We must strive to ensure that women can embrace the technological revolution and create fulfilled lives," said Peng, who also called for women to be equipped with knowledge, technological skills and innovative capacity.
Meanwhile, Azoulay thanked China for its long-standing support for UNESCO and its global efforts to empower women and girls.
A white paper released by China’s State Council Information Office stated that over 200,000 women from more than 180 countries and regions have benefited from China-supported training and development initiatives.
According to China Global Television Network (CGTN) in a statement, China's achievements in promoting women's all-round development, particularly in education, reinforce Peng's message.
China’s progress in narrowing gender gaps in education was also highlighted. By 2024, women accounted 50.76 per cent of higher education enrolment in China, up 14.15 percentage points from 1995, according to official data. Girls now make up nearly half of all students from kindergarten to high school.
Beyond statistics, the country has also launched a series of programmes to encourage girls' participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including the “Exploring the Future” programme, which has introduced over 8,000 girls to university laboratories and real-world scientific research.
-- BERNAMA
SHARJAH HOSTS MENA’S FIRST INCLUSION INTERNATIONAL WORLD CONGRESS
 |
Honorary Lifetime Membership certificate awarded to Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi by Inclusion International (Photo: AETOSWire) |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- For the first time in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the Emirate of Sharjah hosted the 18th edition of the World Congress 2025, “We Are Inclusion”, under the patronage and in the presence of Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi.
Held for three days, the event, which ended Sept 17, was organised by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) and Inclusion International, with support from the strategic partnership of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau.
The congress brought together 152 speakers and 600 participants from 160 organisations across 74 countries, including self-advocates, family members, experts, and policymakers, across a total of 59 sessions.
During the event, Inclusion International granted Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services Chairperson, Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, an honorary lifetime membership for her pivotal contributions to the global movement to empower people with intellectual disabilities and to strengthen the rights and roles of their families in society.
This accolade is a distinguished international honour conferred by the world’s largest network dedicated to advocating for the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities and their families, according to a statement.
It firmly positions Sheikha Jameela among the foremost global figures whose contributions have significantly advanced the protection, empowerment, and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities on the international stage.
“This honour serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of SCHS, which, since its establishment, has stood as a beacon of inclusion, a leading institution in specialised knowledge and services, and a major driver of international cooperation and partnerships,” said Sheikha Jameela.
Meanwhile, Inclusion International President, Sue Swenson said: “The emirate has demonstrated that investing in inclusive policies positively transforms the lives of individuals and families while strengthening communities. Hosting this congress underlines Sharjah’s role as a key partner in shaping a more inclusive international future.”
Convened every four years in a member country, hosting the congress reflects Sharjah’s commitment to the principles of Inclusion International, namely inclusive education, community inclusion, empowerment, equality, and the protection of rights that have been turned into practical programmes and policies that have yielded success over the past decades.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, September 19, 2025
IFTC Champions Join IFCCI Open Day, Strengthening Malaysia’s Financial Literacy with CSR Spirit
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| Dato’ Kingston Chang presenting a commemorative IFCCI student T-shirt to Pui Zhi Xuan, the champion of the Certified Financial Trader (CFT) competition. |
PETALING JAYA, Sept 19 (Bernama) -- The International Financial Consultant Certified Institute (IFCCI) welcomed winners of the International Financial Trading Championship (IFTC) to its Education Open Day, highlighting the synergy between financial education, competitive excellence, and social responsibility.
The IFTC was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the nation’s largest financial trading charity competition, with the award ceremony held at AEON. More than a contest, the event was designed as a platform that combined financial literacy with corporate social responsibility (CSR). The championship featured a blood donation drive and a charity bazaar, initiatives that reflected IFCCI’s commitment to ensuring financial progress goes hand in hand with community well-being.
These CSR activities were carried out in collaboration with Majlis Tindakan Pengguna Negara (MTPN) and Yayasan Masyarakat Lestari Malaysia (YMLM), with AEON playing a vital role as the venue partner. The partnership demonstrated how corporate and civic organisations can work together to uplift society while fostering financial awareness.
Among the Open Day participants were Pui Zhi Xuan, the IFTC national champion, and Lin Xin An, who placed fifth nationally. Both are Certified Financial Trader (CFT) achievers, linking competition results to IFCCI’s broader education ecosystem, particularly its Diploma in Financial Market Analysis (DFMA). Their journeys illustrate how young talents can progress from proving their trading ability in competition to gaining structured professional education.
“IFTC is more than a stage for trading talent it is a reflection of values. With AEON and our partners, we showed that financial education can inspire excellence while contributing back to society,” said IFCCI President Prof. Dato’ Dr. Kingston Chang.
According to IFCCI, integrating IFTC with its educational programmes ensures multiple entry points for talent development, whether through competitions, academic diplomas, or professional certification. Together, these initiatives form a comprehensive pathway that strengthens Malaysia’s financial literacy and resilience against scams, while embedding CSR principles into the nation’s financial culture.
“With IFTC, Malaysia has demonstrated its ability to host competitions of international credibility while ensuring that financial knowledge contributes to the public good. This is how IFCCI envisions the future of financial education,” Prof. Chang concluded.
Source: International Financial Consultant Certified Institute (IFCCI)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
IFCCI
Tel: 03-78905451 (Office) / 012-2307618 (Mobile)
Email: hello@ifcci.org.my
Website: https://www.ifcci.org.my/
https://www.ifccinstitute.org.my/
-- BERNAMA
AKWEL POSTS 1H PROFIT DROP AMID DISPUTES, COST CONTROLS BOOST MARGIN
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 (Bernama) -- AKWEL, a manufacturer of parts and systems for the automotive and heavy-vehicle industry, has reported a net income of 13.6 million euros for the first half (1H) of 2025, a decrease of 32.9 per cent compared to the same period last year. (1 Euro = RM4.93)
The group’s consolidated revenue totalled 510.6 million euros, down 3.4 per cent from the prior year. Despite the dip in revenue, the group navigated this period with strong cost control, maintaining a healthy cash position of 139.2 million euros at the end of June 2025.
During the first half of 2025, AKWEL saw its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) fall sharply to 6.5 million euros, marking a significant decline of 86.8 per cent compared to the previous year. This drop was largely due to a 52.5 million euros impact on external costs stemming from ongoing customer disputes related to SCR tanks.
However, the company’s current operating income rose by 14.1 per cent, reaching 27.8 million euros, aided by 32.8 million euros in provision reversals.
In a statement, the group also reported its activity with strategic customers has shown good resistance, bolstered by the postponement to 2026 of the production shutdown of SCR tanks.
The group remains focused on its strategic priorities, developing its product potential as part of the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), optimising its operational performance to remain agile in a particularly unstable automotive market and global environment, while continuing to implement its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments.
Looking ahead, the Annual General Meeting has been set for Sept 30, and the dividend payment for the 2024 financial year is scheduled on Oct 7.
As an independent family business listed on Euronext Paris, with 8,600 employees in 20 countries across five continents, AKWEL remains a key enabler of next-generation mobility, particularly in fluid management and structural systems for EVs.
-- BERNAMA
The group’s consolidated revenue totalled 510.6 million euros, down 3.4 per cent from the prior year. Despite the dip in revenue, the group navigated this period with strong cost control, maintaining a healthy cash position of 139.2 million euros at the end of June 2025.
During the first half of 2025, AKWEL saw its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) fall sharply to 6.5 million euros, marking a significant decline of 86.8 per cent compared to the previous year. This drop was largely due to a 52.5 million euros impact on external costs stemming from ongoing customer disputes related to SCR tanks.
However, the company’s current operating income rose by 14.1 per cent, reaching 27.8 million euros, aided by 32.8 million euros in provision reversals.
In a statement, the group also reported its activity with strategic customers has shown good resistance, bolstered by the postponement to 2026 of the production shutdown of SCR tanks.
The group remains focused on its strategic priorities, developing its product potential as part of the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), optimising its operational performance to remain agile in a particularly unstable automotive market and global environment, while continuing to implement its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments.
Looking ahead, the Annual General Meeting has been set for Sept 30, and the dividend payment for the 2024 financial year is scheduled on Oct 7.
As an independent family business listed on Euronext Paris, with 8,600 employees in 20 countries across five continents, AKWEL remains a key enabler of next-generation mobility, particularly in fluid management and structural systems for EVs.
-- BERNAMA
Dr Indra Singawinata Starts Second Term As APO Secretary-General, Sets Bold Agenda
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 (Bernama) -- The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) has announced the reappointment of Dr Indra Pradana Singawinata as its 13th Secretary‑General, effective Sept 16.
Reelected by the APO Governing Body at its 67th Session in May 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia, Dr Singawinata will serve his second term as Secretary-General until Sept 15, 2028, according to the APO in a statement.
“Productivity is not merely output, but it is quality growth, dignified work, and sustainable progress,” said Dr Singawinata, who aimed to invest deliberately in productivity as a driver of competitiveness, resilience, and long‑term sustainability, helping APO members keep pace with rapid global change.
During his first term, Dr Singawinata strengthened institutional governance and transparency and sharpened the APO’s strategic focus across member economies, positioning the organisation to be more responsive, agile, and future-ready.
Building on that platform, his second‑term priorities include continuously improving institutional effectiveness and accountability across the Secretariat and APO programmes, and positioning the APO as the premier productivity partner for national productivity organisations.
In addition, he will also scale the Green Productivity (GP) 2.0 journey to pursue inclusive, innovation‑led, sustainable growth; expand artificial intelligence‑enabled solutions and capacity building across sectors; and support member economies in anticipating and building capabilities for emerging industries and the future of work.
Prior to joining the APO, Dr Singawinata was Senior Vice President at the Indonesia Infrastructure Guarantee Fund (IIGF). He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in philosophy from Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Japan.
APO is an intergovernmental organisation established in 1961 to increase productivity in the Asia-Pacific region through mutual cooperation, contributing to the sustainable socioeconomic development of the region through policy advisory services.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
KIS signs BioLNG supply agreement with Shell, paving the way for future RNG supply
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| KIS signs BioLNG supply agreement with Shell, paving the way for future RNG supply |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- Knowledge Integration Services (KIS Group), a global leader in biomethane and clean energy solutions, has signed a BioLNG supply agreement with Shell Eastern Trading (Pte) Ltd. KIS will supply BioLNG starting in 2027 to Shell for regasification and distribution to customers in Singapore, supporting the country’s transition to a lower- carbon energy future.
This agreement marks the first phase of a strategic framework to meet rising demand for methane capture & renewable natural gas (RNG). It reflects both companies shared commitment to scalable, sustainable energy solutions that help decarbonisation without major infrastructure changes.
Proven Track Record in Clean Technology
With over 20 years of experience and more than 90 global projects, KIS is recognized for its leadership in biomethane innovation. Highlights include:
· South east Asia’s largest BioCNG plant
· Several awards for BioCNG & circular waste management
· 13.5 Million Tons of organic waste treated annually
· 600 million m³ of biogas generated annually
· 5.9 million tons/year of carbon emissions reduced globally
Why BioLNG Matters
BioLNG, a renewable fuel derived from organic waste that are presently emitting methane, offers a cleaner alternative to conventional LNG. As a drop-in solution, it reduces lifecycle emissions and enhances energy security—without requiring major infrastructure changes. Methane capturing helps reducing emissions for agricultural industries & create jobs.
Leadership Perspectives
K. R. Raghunath, Founder & CEO of KIS Group:
“We are delighted to collaborate with Shell for BioLNG . With our combined strength we hope to meet the decarbonisation needs of customers in Singapore at the earliest. We are looking forward to building on this to further to strengthen our collaboration.
Aditya Gupta, General Manager, New Business Development, Shell Energy Asia:
“We are proud to partner with KIS Group on this pioneering BioLNG initiative. By leveraging on our joint expertise, we are supporting Singapore and the region in achieving their climate ambition. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to delivering more and cleaner energy solutions to support our customers in their energy transition journey.”
About KIS Group
KIS transforms waste into clean energy through advanced biomethane technologies and strategic partnerships. With a strong presence across Asia, KIS continues to drive the global shift toward a low-carbon economy.
SOURCE: KIS GREENTECH SDN BHD
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Mr. Raghunath Ramaiah
CEO of KIS Group
Email: Raghu@kisgroup.net
--BERNAMA
HERE TECHNOLOGIES, RADARO TO BOOST LAST-MILE DELIVERY INTELLIGENCE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- HERE Technologies, a location data and technology platform, has partnered with Radaro to extend Radaro’s enterprise-grade routing, planning, and fleet optimisation capabilities.
Trusted by global leaders such as Electrolux, Miele, Knauf, PPG and Air Liquide, Radaro has built a reputation for delivering customer-centric logistics through real-time tracking, deep workflows, mobile driver experience, and configurable business rules.
“This partnership showcases how the HERE Tour Planning and full-stack location services can drive real-world efficiency, reduce planning complexity, and improve the delivery experience for businesses, drivers and customers,” said HERE Technologies Senior Director and Head of Business, Oceania, Daniel Antonello in a statement.
Meanwhile, Radaro Chief Technology Officer, Arie Spivak said: “Radaro is trusted globally to orchestrate the full logistics lifecycle, from planning and compliance to execution, driver experience, and customer engagement.
“By adopting HERE’s location services into our platform, we have further extended those capabilities. Together with HERE, we are delivering better customer outcomes and operational excellence.”
Radaro has strengthened its platform by adopting HERE Tour Planning, with truck-ready intelligence for smarter routing and deeper operational insights, optimised for mixed fleets, including light commercial vehicles, heavy vehicles and electric vehicles to ensure consistent, on-time deliveries.
The combination of Radaro’s platform with HERE Tour Planning and location services allows organisations to evolve from static route planning to dynamic, intelligent logistics execution for complex delivery schedules.
From pre-trip optimisation to post-trip analysis, the combined solution provides traditional fleet routing tools while also accounting for real-world delivery constraints such as vehicle load capacity, driver availability, road closures, truck-specific restrictions and skill-based job requirements.
-- BERNAMA
Trusted by global leaders such as Electrolux, Miele, Knauf, PPG and Air Liquide, Radaro has built a reputation for delivering customer-centric logistics through real-time tracking, deep workflows, mobile driver experience, and configurable business rules.
“This partnership showcases how the HERE Tour Planning and full-stack location services can drive real-world efficiency, reduce planning complexity, and improve the delivery experience for businesses, drivers and customers,” said HERE Technologies Senior Director and Head of Business, Oceania, Daniel Antonello in a statement.
Meanwhile, Radaro Chief Technology Officer, Arie Spivak said: “Radaro is trusted globally to orchestrate the full logistics lifecycle, from planning and compliance to execution, driver experience, and customer engagement.
“By adopting HERE’s location services into our platform, we have further extended those capabilities. Together with HERE, we are delivering better customer outcomes and operational excellence.”
Radaro has strengthened its platform by adopting HERE Tour Planning, with truck-ready intelligence for smarter routing and deeper operational insights, optimised for mixed fleets, including light commercial vehicles, heavy vehicles and electric vehicles to ensure consistent, on-time deliveries.
The combination of Radaro’s platform with HERE Tour Planning and location services allows organisations to evolve from static route planning to dynamic, intelligent logistics execution for complex delivery schedules.
From pre-trip optimisation to post-trip analysis, the combined solution provides traditional fleet routing tools while also accounting for real-world delivery constraints such as vehicle load capacity, driver availability, road closures, truck-specific restrictions and skill-based job requirements.
-- BERNAMA
SEOUL TOURISM ORGANIZATION UNVEILS CUSTOMISABLE ‘PICK 3 PASS’ FOR SMART, FLEXIBLE TRAVEL
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| The Pick 3 Pass allows the holder to select and enjoy a total of 3 partner attractions/services in Seoul for 5 days. (Image: Seoul Tourism Organization) |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- The Seoul Tourism Organization has launched the “Pick 3 Pass”, a new addition to its popular Discover Seoul Pass series, with official sales beginning on Sept 15.
The organisation in a statement said the new pass is targeted at repeat visitors and independent travellers, allowing tourists to select three attractions of their choice — offering flexibility without compromising value.
The Pick 3 Basic Pass, priced at 49,000 Korean won (US$35.30), allows visitors to choose any three attractions, such as N Seoul Tower and Sea Life COEX, Seoul Aquarium. (US$1=RM4.18)
Meanwhile, the Pick 3 Theme Park Pass, priced at 70,000 Korean won (US$50.41), includes entry to one theme park – Lotte World Adventure, SeoulLand, or Everland – plus two additional attractions.
The Pick 3 Pass joins the existing 72-hour and 120-hour Discover Seoul Passes, expanding the range of options for travellers with varying itineraries and interests.
The pass is valid for five days from first use and is available in both mobile and physical formats. Purchasers of the mobile pass receive a complimentary five-day eSIM, while the physical card includes a rechargeable prepaid transit function for buses and subways.
All pass holders are also entitled to a one-time free rental of hiking equipment at Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers on Bukhansan, Bugaksan and Gwanaksan mountains.
In addition, the physical Discover Seoul Pass now carries a prepaid payment function for transport, attractions and retail purchases, with more than 20 new discount partners added in August.
The passes can be purchased through the official Discover Seoul Pass website and app, as well as global travel platforms such as Klook and KKday.
The expansion reflects changing tourism trends and a growing demand for personalised travel products. The organisation will continue to introduce diverse products and services so that visitors to Seoul can enjoy their travels more conveniently and freely.
-- BERNAMA
CGTN HIGHLIGHTS PREMIERE OF “731”, HISTORICAL FILM ON WARTIME HUMAN EXPERIMENTATION
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- A Chinese historical drama titled 731 is set to premiere globally on Sept 18, depicting events related to wartime medical experiments in northeast China.
Directed by Zhao Linshan, the film follows the story of Wang Yongzhang, a local vendor, and others who were imprisoned under the pretext of health checks and research cooperation.
According to China Global Television Network (CGTN) in a statement, the storyline illustrates how the individuals later became subjects of medical testing during the war period.
The drama also revisits the history of Unit 731, a research facility established in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, during World War II. The unit has been historically associated with biological and chemical warfare activities.
Recently declassified documents from Russia’s Federal Security Service reportedly show that Unit 731 conducted extensive pathogen testing and had planned broader operations in the region.
Historical adviser Jin Chengmin, who also heads the Exhibition Hall of Unit 731 in Harbin, said the film aims to portray the experiences of civilians while highlighting their resilience.
“This history must be remembered, and the film underscores the importance of safeguarding peace,” he said.
The global release coincides with the 94th anniversary of the Sept 18 Incident of 1931, seen as a turning point in the region’s wartime history.
This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, observed internationally as a victory in the global anti-fascist struggle.
-- BERNAMA
Directed by Zhao Linshan, the film follows the story of Wang Yongzhang, a local vendor, and others who were imprisoned under the pretext of health checks and research cooperation.
According to China Global Television Network (CGTN) in a statement, the storyline illustrates how the individuals later became subjects of medical testing during the war period.
The drama also revisits the history of Unit 731, a research facility established in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, during World War II. The unit has been historically associated with biological and chemical warfare activities.
Recently declassified documents from Russia’s Federal Security Service reportedly show that Unit 731 conducted extensive pathogen testing and had planned broader operations in the region.
Historical adviser Jin Chengmin, who also heads the Exhibition Hall of Unit 731 in Harbin, said the film aims to portray the experiences of civilians while highlighting their resilience.
“This history must be remembered, and the film underscores the importance of safeguarding peace,” he said.
The global release coincides with the 94th anniversary of the Sept 18 Incident of 1931, seen as a turning point in the region’s wartime history.
This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, observed internationally as a victory in the global anti-fascist struggle.
-- BERNAMA
Saturday, September 13, 2025
YIKEDA Showcases Premium Tomato Products At Asia Fruit Logistica, Eyes Global Expansion
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 (Bernama) -- The high-end fruit tomato brand YIKEDA under Triumph Haofeng Agriculture Group Co Ltd recently made its debut at the 18th Asia Fruit Logistica (AFL), attracting numerous merchants and continuous collaboration.
The debut showcases the brand's strong capabilities and global confidence as it focuses on products such as cherry tomatoes, 100 per cent NFC tomato juice, tomato plum sparkling water, and tomato wellness water.
According to a statement, the products have obtained low glycaemic index (GI) certification and are also recognised by Frost & Sullivan as “Cherry tomatoes: No. 1 Best-seller Nationwide” and “100% NFC tomato juice: No. 1 Best-seller Nationwide”.
All of YIKEDA cherry tomatoes are produced in the smart glass greenhouse owned by its parent company, are non-genetically modified organisms (GMO), free of artificial hormones and heavy metals, naturally seed-rich, bursting with juice and packed with intense tomato flavour.
The 100 per cent NFC tomato juice adheres to “no added water”, using only tomatoes, which also garnered numerous enquiries and positive feedback.
Triumph Haofeng Agriculture Group Chairman and the YIKEDA brand founder, Ma Tiemin said the brand will continue to deepen its focus on the tomato industry, expanding its products and channels with a global perspective.
YIKEDA has already embarked on its global expansion, with its cherry tomatoes entered in Russian Eurospar supermarkets, tomato juice exported to South Korea, and some products sold in various supermarkets in Hong Kong, China.
Held in Hong Kong, the AFL attracted over 750 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, making it one of Asia’s most influential professional fruit exhibitions.
Although the exhibition has concluded, collaborations continue to gain momentum, with clients from Belarus, Malaysia, Thailand, and other regions having expressed strong intentions to cooperate.
-- BERNAMA