MIMOS: BUDGET 2027 SHOULD ACCELERATE THE JOURNEY FROM R&D TO MALAYSIAN TECHNOLOGY, INDUSTRY ADOPTION AND HIGH-VALUE ECONOMIC IMPACT

(L to R) Abdul Rashdee Abdul Kadir, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer and Group Chief Operating Officer; Nurezmy A. Majid, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer and Group Chief of Staff; Dr Saat Shukri Embong, President and Group Chief Executive Officer; Dr Zulaikha Kadim, Group Chief Technology Officer, and Ir. Dr. Hazian Mamat, Group Chief of Corporate Planning & Strategy, MIMOS Berhad, shared their views following the Budget 2027 announcement, emphasising the need to accelerate R&D commercialisation, industry adoption and the development of Malaysian technologies to drive economic impact.

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- MIMOS Berhad welcomes the Government’s continued emphasis on strengthening Malaysia’s technology and innovation ecosystem and views Budget 2027 as an important opportunity to accelerate the transition from research and development (R&D) to commercialisation, industry adoption, and tangible national economic value.

MIMOS also acknowledges the Government’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s technology and innovation agenda, particularly through the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). These priorities provide an important foundation for strengthening Malaysia’s R&D capabilities, developing home-grown technologies and translating innovation into meaningful economic and societal outcomes.

The Budget’s RM6 billion allocation for research, development and commercialisation activities across ministries provides an important national framework for strengthening the journey from research to market. Separately, Khazanah and KWAP will invest RM1.2 billion to help local semiconductor companies move into higher-value segments. These measures present an opportunity to connect research capabilities more directly with national industrial priorities and market demand, including the development of higher-value technology capabilities and stronger local companies. The Budget also includes an RM30 million MDEC fund to help 4,000 MSMEs adopt AI and automate their operations, alongside measures to support technology startups. Together, these initiatives underscore the importance of translating local R&D into industry-ready solutions.

As Malaysia advances its technology agenda, MIMOS believes that the next phase of growth must go beyond investment in research infrastructure and technology development. Greater emphasis should be placed on ensuring that home-grown technologies are translated into Malaysian intellectual property (IP), commercially viable products and solutions, higher productivity, high-value employment and stronger Malaysian companies.

Dr Saat Shukri Embong, the President and Group Chief Executive Officer (PGCEO) of MIMOS Berhad, said the success of Malaysia’s technology agenda should ultimately be measured by the value created for the nation.

“Malaysia has built significant capabilities in R&D, technology and innovation. The next step is to ensure that these capabilities translate into commercial outcomes, stronger Malaysian IP, industry adoption and economic value. Budget 2027 can play an important role in strengthening this pathway, from research to technology development, to commercialisation and ultimately to impact.

The RM6 billion commitment to R&D and commercialisation, together with the focus on moving local semiconductor companies into higher-value activities, presents an opportunity to connect research capabilities more directly with national industrial priorities and market demand. This is also important in strengthening Malaysia's technological sovereignty by building our own capabilities, developing home-grown technologies and creating greater value from Malaysian innovation.”

Dr Shukri added that Malaysia’s applied R&D institutions have an important role to play in bridging the gap between technological capability and market adoption.

“Our objective should not simply be to develop more technologies, but to develop technologies that industry can adopt, scale and use to become more productive and competitive. This is how R&D investment ultimately creates value for the Malaysian economy.”

From an operational and industry adoption perspective, Abdul Rashdee Abdul Kadir, MIMOS Berhad’s Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer and Group Chief Operating Officer, said greater attention should be given to helping businesses translate technology investment into measurable productivity gains.

“Technology adoption must ultimately solve real business and industry challenges. Whether through AI, automation, smart manufacturing or other advanced technologies, the focus should be on enabling companies, particularly businesses that are ready to scale, to improve productivity, efficiency and competitiveness. The RM30 million MDEC fund announced under Budget 2027 will help 4,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) adopt AI and automate their operations. The programme will also train and certify 5,000 AI professionals. This is one example of the opportunity to connect technology developers with businesses that can benefit from practical, measurable solutions.”

Abdul Rashdee said stronger mechanisms to connect technology developers with industry would help accelerate the movement from technology readiness to real-world deployment.

“The measure of success is not simply how much technology we develop, but how effectively that technology is adopted, deployed and scaled. A stronger 3 R&D-to-industry pathway will allow Malaysian companies to capture greater value from technology investment.”

Meanwhile, Nurezmy A. Majid, MIMOS Berhad’s Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer and Group Chief of Staff, said sustained technology development requires a coordinated ecosystem involving Government, industry, academia and R&D institutions.

“Technology development cannot happen in isolation. Malaysia needs a strong, connected ecosystem where policy, R&D, industry demand, talent development, and commercialisation work together. Budget 2027 is an opportunity to strengthen these linkages and ensure that national investments in technology capabilities are aligned with Malaysia’s broader economic priorities.

This includes connecting R&D institutions with industry, investment and talentdevelopment pathways so that promising technologies can progress from validation to adoption and scale.”

Nurezmy added that strengthening the national technology ecosystem would also help Malaysia develop and retain the capabilities needed for future industries.

“We need to build not only technologies, but also the people, institutions, partnerships and pathways that allow those technologies to create sustained national value. This includes stronger collaboration between Government, industry, academia and R&D institutions.”

From a technology perspective, Dr Zulaikha Kadim, Group Chief Technology Officer of MIMOS Berhad, said Malaysia should continue strengthening strategic technology capabilities, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and digital technologies.

“AI and semiconductor technologies are increasingly central to economic competitiveness. Malaysia must continue building indigenous technological capabilities while ensuring that our R&D efforts generate intellectual property and solutions that can be developed, protected and commercialised locally. Budget 2027 identifies quantum technology as a future skills area. It also states that NACSA and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will develop local post-quantum cryptography technologies to protect data against threats from quantum computers. These priorities reinforce the need to build expertise across strategic technologies while ensuring that research is directed towards relevant national and industry needs.”

Dr Zulaikha said strengthening local technology capabilities would enable Malaysia to participate more meaningfully in higher-value segments of the global technology ecosystem.

“The opportunity is not simply to adopt technologies developed elsewhere. We should also strengthen our ability to develop, validate and commercialise technologies that carry Malaysian IP and can compete regionally and globally.”

Ir Dr Hazian Mamat, Group Chief of Corporate Planning & Strategy, MIMOS Berhad, said Budget 2027 should continue to encourage technology investments that are linked to clear and measurable economic outcomes.

“Strategic investment in technology should ultimately translate into measurable outcomes: stronger productivity, greater commercialisation, higher-value jobs, stronger Malaysian companies and greater economic value. This outcome-based approach will be important in ensuring that every investment in innovation contributes meaningfully to Malaysia’s long-term competitiveness.

As Budget 2027 places emphasis on R&D commercialisation and the advancement of high-value sectors, these outcomes should be tracked through clear indicators such as industry adoption, technology readiness, Malaysian IP development, private-sector participation and commercial returns.”

Dr Hazian added that Malaysia’s technology strategy should be viewed through a longer-term lens.

“We need to look beyond individual projects and consider how today’s investments build tomorrow’s capabilities. This means strengthening the pipeline from R&D to commercialisation, supporting technology adoption and developing the talent required to sustain Malaysia’s competitiveness in strategic technology sectors.”

Collectively, MIMOS views Budget 2027 as an opportunity to strengthen the country’s R&D-to-commercialisation pipeline, accelerate the adoption of home-grown technologies, develop Malaysian IP and build the capabilities required to create higher-value economic opportunities. The Budget’s cross-ministerial R&D and commercialisation commitment, semiconductor investment measures, AI adoption initiatives and support for technology startups provide relevant avenues for collaboration, subject to programme eligibility and implementation arrangements.

MIMOS believes that the ultimate measure of technology investment should be its ability to generate real-world impact through commercialisation, productivity, industry competitiveness, high-value jobs and sustainable national economic value.

About MIMOS Berhad

MIMOS Berhad, a strategic agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), is Malaysia’s national applied R&D centre and innovation catalyst. MIMOS drives technology development and adoption by connecting research, industry, and policy to address national priorities and create socio-economic impact.

Its role spans applied research, technology commercialisation, ecosystem and standards development, policy and roadmap advisory, and talent capacity building. Through strategic collaborations across the public and private sectors, MIMOS enables the translation of innovation into scalable solutions that strengthen Malaysia’s technological capabilities, economic resilience, and global competitiveness. Its applied R&D capabilities support national priorities in areas including semiconductors, advanced electronics, digital technologies and emerging technology domains.

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

SOURCE: MIMOS Berhad

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

Name: Nurazuin Wahab
Email: nurazuin.wahab@mimos.my

Name: Nuramalina Husna
Email: Nuramalina.nurdin@mimos.my

--BERNAMA

BPMB GROUP ENTRUSTED WITH OVER RM7 BILLION IN STRATEGIC INITIATIVES ACROSS SEVEN PRIORITY SECTORS UNDER NATIONAL BUDGET 2027

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 12 (Bernama) -- Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad Group (“BPMB Group” or “the Group”) has been entrusted by the Government with more than RM7 billion in strategic initiatives across seven priority sectors under National Budget 2027. The seven priority sectors comprise export empowerment, sustainability, transportation and logistics, entrepreneur development, high-growth and high-value industries, tourism and infrastructure.

Reflecting the National Budget 2027 theme, Malaysia MADANI: Reaching for the Skies, While Anchored on Our Values, these initiatives support the Government’s focus on key sectors that support productivity, investment, competitiveness and sustainable economic growth. The integration of SME Bank Malaysia Berhad (“SME Bank”) and EXIM Bank Malaysia Berhad (“EXIM Bank”) further strengthens BPMB Group’s mandate as Malaysia’s unified development finance group, bringing together greater capital strength and broader capabilities to expand access to development financing, accelerate strategic investment and deliver measurable development impact in line with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Performance Measurement Framework (“PMF”).

Advancing Malaysia’s Export Competitiveness
Under Export Empowerment, RM1 billion will help Malaysian exporters navigate global market uncertainties and expand their presence in new and non-traditional markets.

Financing initiatives include:

• Local Acceleration and Growth Programme (RM500 million): Affordable financing for manufacturers, service providers, and local vendors to boost capacity, productivity, and competitiveness to support domestic business growth and strengthen participation in the value and supply chains of multinational corporations (MNCs), leading local corporates as well as strategic sectors identified under the New Industrial Master Plan (“NIMP”) 2030. This programme aims to deepen their integration into regional and global value and supply chains.
• Export Leap Scheme (RM500 million): Supporting and strengthening the capabilities and skills of Malaysian entrepreneurs / exporters to enter or further expand their footprint in international markets, including frontiers and non-traditional markets, as well as supporting exporters in navigating heightened competition and increasing costs from the current global and geopolitical uncertainties.
• Malaysia Global Connect (MGC) GoExport Cover (RM5 million grant): Providing a safety net against trade risks to aspiring and existing exporters entering new and non-traditional markets, thus reducing their vulnerability to commercial risk whilst facilitating and encouraging their market expansion. Business Export Programme (RM3 million grant):
• Building the export readiness and market access capabilities of Bumiputera Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (“MSMEs”) in the services and manufacturing sectors.

Scaling Sustainable Growth
Under the RM2 billion Sustainability mandate, the Group will facilitate the transition of Malaysian businesses towards lower-carbon and more sustainable operations, aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (“NETR”) and evolving global sustainability requirements.

Initiatives include:

• Dana Kelestarian Alam 2.0 (RM2 billion): Financing Malaysian companies undertaking low-carbon initiatives and transitioning towards more sustainable business operations.
• National Energy Transition Facility (“NETF”) (RM50 million): Supporting high-potential energy transition projects that require targeted assistance to progress towards commercial viability.

Building a More Resilient Transport and Logistics Ecosystem
A dedicated RM1 billion will support a more resilient transportation and logistics ecosystem, enhance supply chain efficiency and strengthen Malaysia’s aerospace capabilities under the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint (“MAIB”) 2030.

Initiatives include:

• Transportation & Logistics Programme (RM800 million): Financing companies and projects across logistics and transportation, maritime and oil and gas (“O&G”) industries.
• Aerospace Programme (RM200 million): Financing companies across the aerospace ecosystem, including maintenance, repair and overhaul (“MRO”) activities.

Catalysing Entrepreneurial Growth.
A total of RM858 million will advance Entrepreneur Development in alignment with the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2030, targeting Bumiputera entrepreneurs, the Halal industry ecosystem, women and youth entrepreneurs, rural communities, social enterprises and franchise industry players.

Initiatives include:

• Bumiputera Economic Development Programme (RM600 million): Expanding access to financing for Bumiputera entrepreneurs, including businesses within the Halal industry ecosystem.
• MySMELady 3.0 (RM100 million): Expanding financing access for women-owned MSMEs to support business growth.
• Umbrella Ecosystem (RM150 million): Supporting the growth of franchise and licensing ecosystems, including franchisors, franchisees, licensors and licensees.
• Maju Usahawan Madani 3.0 (RM8 million grant): Strengthening the capabilities of entrepreneurs from underserved segments, including social enterprises, youth, women and rural communities.

Accelerating High-Growth and High-Value Industries
For high-growth and high-value industries, RM750 million will accelerate technology adoption and innovation in support of Malaysia’s transition towards a higher-value economy under NIMP 2030, the Industry4WRD: National Policy on Industry 4.0 and the National Semiconductor Strategy.

Initiatives include:Technology Adoption Fund (RM500 million): Financing technology adoption, digitalisation and Industry 4.0 initiatives, including among contractors, manufacturers and installers of Industrialised Building System (“IBS”) components.
Semiconductor Financing Programme (RM250 million): Financing semiconductor companies with the potential to scale capabilities and strengthen Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem under the National Semiconductor Strategy.

Elevating Malaysia’s Tourism Sector
A further RM700 million will support the continued growth of Malaysia’s tourism ecosystem and tourism-related businesses.

Initiatives include:

• Special Fund for Tourism (RM200 million): Expanding financing access for SMEs operating in tourism and tourism-related sectors.
• Tourism Programme (RM500 million): Financing companies across the tourism and tourism-related sectors to support sector growth.

Building Future-Ready Infrastructure
For infrastructure, RM700 million will support high-impact projects and essential facilities aligned with Malaysia’s economic and social development needs.
This will be delivered through:

• MADANI Infrastructure Programme (RM700 million): Financing Malaysian companies involved in major public infrastructure, utilities, social infrastructure, food security and national assets and security-related projects.

Collectively, these initiatives reinforce BPMB Group’s mandate, translating the National Budget 2027 priorities into targeted financing and measurable development outcomes. With an allocation of approximately RM510 billion, the National Budget 2027 advances stronger growth, productivity, sustainability and economic reform under the MADANI economic framework and the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (“RMK13”), while enabling the Group to address financing gaps, advance strategic sectors and support Malaysian businesses from domestic growth through to international expansion.

For more information on BPMB Group’s initiatives and development programmes, please visit www.bpmb.com.my.

Please click here: https://bit.ly/4hU6v4r

Issued by:
BPMB Group

SOURCE: Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad Group
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Mohd Nasrulhanis Ruslan
Acting Head, Strategic Communication
BPMB Group
Email: nasrulhanis@smebank.com.my

--BERNAMA

GOING ASSET MANAGEMENT BAGS CAPITAL EXCELLENCE FUND AWARD

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 12 (Bernama) -- Going International Asset Management Limited has received the Capital Excellence Fund Award at the Capital Merits of Achievement in Banking and Finance 2026 for its financial technology innovation, quantitative strategy research and development capabilities, and fund performance.

According to a statement, the award honours Going Asset’s strengths in asset management and its technology-driven approach, following the announcement of the winners by financial publication Capital Magazine on Sept 29.

The awards recognise financial institutions that have contributed to the development of Hong Kong’s financial sector. Winners are selected based on criteria including overall performance, service quality and reputation.

Now in their 17th consecutive edition, the awards have also recognised institutions such as BOC-Prudential Asset Management, CCB International, Dah Sing Bank, Hang Seng Investment Management Limited and Nanyang Commercial Bank.

Going Asset Management uses artificial intelligence (AI)-driven high-performance computing and ultra-low-latency systems to identify cross-market price movements within microseconds. The approach aims to accumulate small gains across a large volume of trades and improve asset allocation efficiency across market cycles.

The firm’s assets under management have exceeded US$3.3 billion (RM13.46 billion). According to Morgan Hedge rankings as of Aug 31, 2026, its Going Algo SP 2-Class M Fund recorded returns of 89.44 per cent over one year and 280.64 per cent over three years, ranking first globally in both periods. (US$1 = RM4.08)

The company has also expanded its use of AI, with large models processing real-time information streams and improving through reinforcement learning to support investment research and trading strategies.

Going Asset Management plans to continue prioritising AI and risk management while expanding its quantitative research and development across global markets, leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a link between international capital markets.

The firm aims to provide global investors with more resilient portfolios and asset allocation solutions through stronger strategies, greater operational transparency and higher compliance standards.

-- BERNAMA

GTCFX-PR 5-GTCPrime Signs Off From iFX Expo Hong Kong 2026 After Two Days of Insight and Connection

 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GTCPrime has closed out its participation as Gold Sponsor at iFX Expo Hong Kong 2026, held on October 8-9 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Over the two days, the GTCPrime team welcomed clients, partners, and industry peers at Booth 14 to discuss market developments and the changing needs of investors across Asia-Pacific. 

And GTCPrime Chief Analyst, Jameel Ahmad, also took part in a panel discussion, "The Future of Wealth Is East: Why Hong Kong Matters More Than Ever." The session brought together leaders from private banking, wealth management, WealthTech, and family offices to examine Hong Kong's role as a premier wealth hub as global wealth shifts eastward.

The discussion covered four themes:

• Global capital: Why Hong Kong continues to attract international capital, family offices, and high-net-worth investors.

• WealthTech and AI: How digital platforms and AI-powered advisory are changing wealth management and client engagement.

• The Greater Bay Area: Its role in unlocking cross-border investment and new growth opportunities.

• Evolving expectations: How wealth managers are adapting as investors become more digital and global, and seek stable, transparent, well-regulated financial centres.

Headquartered in Dubai and serving clients across more than 100 countries, GTCPrime took part in iFX Expo Hong Kong as one of Asia's leading financial centres continues to draw global attention. Dubai and Hong Kong are both international financial hubs that connect capital, firms, and markets across regions, and the exchange of perspectives in Hong Kong sits naturally alongside GTCPrime's global outlook.

Media Contact

Email: support@gtcprime.com

Website: https://www.gtcprime.com/

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9b0eb2f2-62c4-42c1-aee1-4e602f775266

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bd9a92b5-67e0-4cb1-be79-5c40f0c78cb9 


SOURCE: GTC Global Trade Capital Co. 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.

ARLA FOODS INGREDIENTS TO SHOWCASE PERSONALISED CLEAR PROTEIN SHAKES IN LAS VEGAS

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- Arla Foods Ingredients will showcase three personalised clear protein shake concepts at SupplySide Global in Las Vegas from Oct 28 to 30, targeting consumers with different sports performance and recovery needs.

In a statement, Arla Foods Ingredients said the concepts are designed to offer an alternative to traditional milk-based protein shakes, combining whey proteins with functional ingredients to support strength, endurance and mobility.

Arla Foods Ingredients Senior Director of Performance Nutrition, Peter Schouw Andersen said the concepts demonstrated the versatility of clear whey protein isolates in developing products tailored to different consumer needs and performance goals.

The BUILD resistance shake combines Lacprodan ISO.RefreshShake whey protein with creatine for strength-focused activities such as weightlifting and CrossFit.

The SUSTAIN endurance shake uses Lacprodan Pro2O with carbohydrates and electrolytes for activities including running and cycling, while the MOVE mobility shake combines Lacprodan ISO.WaterShake with collagen for activities such as yoga, Pilates, gymnastics and dance.

Visitors to the event can also sample other concepts at the company's booth, including an aerated milk protein bar, a high-protein water-based shot designed for consumers with reduced appetite, and a sparkling fruit-flavoured protein soda.

The protein bar uses Nutrilac PB-8420 to support aeration and texture stability, while the 100-millilitre protein shot contains 21 grammes of protein and is fat-free, sugar-free and low in lactose. The protein soda uses Lacprodan Pro2O to deliver a clear, low-viscosity beverage.

-- BERNAMA

TANAKA MEP Breaks Ground on RM70 Million High-Purity Precious Metal Refining Facility in Penang

From left to right:

1. YB Goh Choon Aik - EXCO Penang, Trade and National Unity Committee
2. YB H'ng Mooi Lye - EXCO Penang, Local Government and Town & Country Planning
3. Mr. Tomoyuki Tada - Chief Operating Officer, TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies Co., Ltd.
4. YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow - Chief Minister of Penang
5. TYT Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Ramli Bin Ngah Talib - Yang Di-Pertua Negeri of the State of Penang
6. Dato’ Ivan Ong - Director of MEP Enviro Technology Sdn. Bhd.
7. Mr. Wataru Wada - Senior General Manager, Manufacturing Department, TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies Co., Ltd.
8. Mr. Machida Shinya - Consul-General of Japan in Penang
9. Mr. Sean Ong - Director of MEP Enviro Technology Sdn. Bhd.


PENANG, MALAYSIA, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- TANAKA MEP Refinery Sdn. Bhd., a joint venture between Japan-based TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies Co., Ltd. and Malaysia-based MEP Enviro Technology Sdn. Bhd., yesterday inaugurated its groundbreaking facility at Batu Kawan Industrial Park, Penang. The RM70 million investment will establish Malaysia's first 4N precious metal refining factory, producing high-purity precious metals at 99.99% purity and positioning the country as a regional leader in advanced refining capabilities.

Developed on approximately three acres of land with a built-up area of 45,000 square feet, the facility will focus initially on producing 4N high-purity gold and potassium gold cyanide (PGC) for the electronics and semiconductor industries. Commercial operations are expected to commence in the first quarter of 2029.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by TYT Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Ramli bin Ngah Talib, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang, together with YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, and attended by representatives from the state and federal government, industry, and relevant agencies.

YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, said, “Penang is proud to host Malaysia’s first 4N precious metal refining facility, adding another ecosystem partner to our established E&E and semiconductor ecosystem. With more than five decades of industrial excellence, Penang has developed an increasingly comprehensive ecosystem spanning design, manufacturing, testing, equipment and supporting companies. The presence of TANAKA MEP Refinery contributes to strengthening our industrial capabilities while supporting greater resource recovery and the development of a more sustainable and circular industrial ecosystem in Penang.”

Malaysia's manufacturing sector continues to attract significant quality investments. In the first half of 2026 (1H2026) alone, the sector recorded RM51.3 billion in approved investments across 973 projects, expected to create 64,555 new jobs, underscoring the country's competitive position in high-value manufacturing. Penang, among top investment recipients, recorded RM17.3 billion in approved manufacturing investments in H12026, up 38.1% from the corresponding period last year.

YBhg. Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said, “The establishment of this facility strengthens Malaysia’s capabilities in higher-value precious metal recovery and refining, while supporting important downstream industries including electrical and electronics and semiconductors. More importantly, the partnership demonstrates how investment can contribute to a more integrated and circular manufacturing ecosystem by recovering valuable materials and returning them to the industrial supply chain.”

“MIDA welcomes investments that deepen Malaysia’s industrial capabilities, introduce higher-value activities and create stronger linkages across the domestic supply chain. We will continue to work closely with TANAKA MEP Refinery and our partners in Penang to facilitate the implementation of this project and support its long-term growth in Malaysia,” he added.

MIDA has collaborated closely with TANAKA MEP Refinery and stakeholders throughout the project development phase and will remain engaged as implementation progresses. The Agency will facilitate connections with Malaysia's broader manufacturing ecosystem and identify opportunities for local industry participation in the supply chain.

Mr. Ong, Director of MEP Enviro Technology, said the project Phase 1 will spend RM35 million focus on the production of 4N (99.99%) high-purity gold and potassium gold cyanide (PGC), which are widely used in the electronics and semiconductor industries.

“Through this partnership, we aim to establish a more complete precious metal recycling value chain, from recovery and high-purity refining to returning valuable materials back into the manufacturing supply chain,” said Mr. Ong.

Mr. Tomoyuki Tada, Chief Operating Officer of TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies Co., Ltd., said that upon completion, the facility is expected to become Malaysia’s first 4N precious metal refining factory, strengthening Penang’s capabilities in high-value precious metal recovery and refining while supporting the region’s electrical and electronics (E&E) and semiconductor industries.

The establishment of the facility is expected to further strengthen Penang’s manufacturing ecosystem by adding high-purity precious metal refining capabilities that support the requirements of the E&E and semiconductor industries, while contributing to a more circular industrial value chain.

About MIDA
MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit http://www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channels.

About Invest Penang
InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for the promotion of investment. Its objectives are to develop and sustain Penang’s economy by enhancing and continuously supporting business activities in the State through foreign and local investments, including spawning viable new growth centers. To realise its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention), Global Business Services (GBS) Focus Group (promoting and developing digital economy), Penang Silicon Design @5km+ (establishing a unique and interconnected ecosystem for IC design and technology enterprises) and Malaysia ATE Campus in Penang (accelerating the co‑development, qualification, and scaling of Malaysian ATE solutions by enabling first-customer deployment). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn; WhatsApp Channel and TikTok.

About TANAKA MEP Refinery
TANAKA MEP Refinery Sdn. Bhd. is a joint venture between Malaysia-based MEP Enviro Technology Sdn. Bhd. and Japan-based TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies Co., Ltd., with a planned total investment of approximately RM70 million. The new facility will bring advanced precious metal refining capabilities to Malaysia, with the capability to produce 4N gold to internationally recognised quality standards.

SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Puan Zakiah Sajidan
Director, Machinery & Metal Technology Division
Tel: +603-2267 6769
Email: zakiah@mida.gov.my

InvestPenang
Name: Elaine Cheah / Ong Yih Hwa
Communications & Business Intelligence
Tel: +604 646 8833
Email: elaine@investpenang.gov.my / yihhwa@investpenang.gov.my

TANAKA MEP Refinery Sdn. Bhd
Name: Ms. Milkie Chua
PA to Director
Tel: +60 12 507 5551
Email: mt.chua@mepsb.com.my

--BERNAMA

EBC Financial Group at iFX EXPO Asia 2026 covering Markets, Technology, and Industry Dialogue

 

EBC will offer a closer look at some of its newest developments and share news of the EBC Group Foundation


HONG KONG, Oct 7 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asia's trading landscape is evolving rapidly. Technology is accelerating access to market information and trading tools, while regulators across the region continue to adapt to a changing financial environment. That push and pull between growth, and oversight will shape many of the conversations at iFX EXPO Asia 2026, running from 7 to 9 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

More than 5,000 professionals from over 130 countries are expected to attend, and EBC Financial Group (EBC) will be among them at Booth 4, presenting its latest developments and joining three sessions on the conference programme.

Why Asia, Why Now

For EBC, the event comes at an important moment for the region. Asia remains one of the world's most active and diverse trading markets, with individual countries taking different approaches to regulation, product access and financial technology.

"Trading is changing fast. Technology, shifting trader and investor behaviour, and ongoing global volatility are reshaping how markets work," said Andria Phiniefs, Marketing Director at EBC Financial Group. "That makes this the right time to connect with traders and partners in Asia as we unveil our newest innovations."

"iFX brings the forex and brokerage industry together in one place making it the ideal place to connect with our traders as well as announce our latest innovations," Phiniefs added. "Join our speakers on Thursday and Friday as they explore the issues shaping the next phase of trading, regulation, and technology. Then visit us at Booth 4 to continue the conversation and see what EBC is working on."

Three Sessions, One Thread

EBC's sessions follow a clear line of questions. Where is the next opportunity in trading and investment? How can trading firms grow without breaking the rules? And once traders have the data, how do they make better decisions with it?

The first question opens the programme. On Thursday 8 October, from 13:20 to 13:50 in the Speaker Hall, Christopher Stiegeler, Chief Operating Officer of EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited, moderates a panel on Asia's next major trading opportunity and its growing regulatory challenges. Panellists will discuss regulatory uncertainty, product innovation and the different approaches to trading across the region.

The second follows on Friday 9 October. From 11:00 to 11:40, Charles Lagares, General Counsel of EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited, moderates "The Compliance Tightrope: How Fast Can Finance Grow Without Breaking the Rules?" The panel looks at how financial firms can expand while keeping pace with changing regulation, emerging technology and more complex compliance demands.

The third brings the two together. From 14:40 to 15:10 at the Mastery Hub, Dr Parker Tian, Head of EBC AI Lab, joins Stiegeler and Lagares for "The Data Isn't Enough: Contextual Intelligence for Trading Decisions". The session starts from a simple idea. Raw data alone rarely tells the full story. Trader behaviour, market conditions and individual trading patterns add the context that turns information into more relevant decisions. This thinking underpins EBC's approach to AI-driven trading.

Delegates can add all three sessions to their agenda through the iFX EXPO app.

Find EBC at the Show

iFX EXPO Asia 2026 runs from 7 to 9 October in Hall 3FG of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. EBC is at Booth 4 and speaks in the Speaker Hall and Mastery Hub on Thursday 8 October and Friday 9 October. Online registration closes at 09:00 (UTC+8) on Wednesday 7 October.

For more analysis from EBC, visit: www.ebc.com. 

Disclaimer: This material is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation or advice from EBC Financial Group and all its entities ("EBC"). Trading Forex and Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on margin carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Before trading, you should carefully consider your trading objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite, and consult an independent financial advisor if necessary. Statistics or past investment performance are not a guarantee of future performance. EBC is not liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.

About EBC Financial Group

EBC Financial Group, headquartered in London, UK, is a comprehensive financial services group licensed and operating in multiple key jurisdictions worldwide. The group offers over 200 Contracts for Difference (CFDs) products, including foreign exchange, precious metals, energy, stock indices, US stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. With branches in major global financial centres such as Tokyo, Sydney, Singapore, and Hong Kong, its service network covers over 100 countries and regions.

Regulation is the cornerstone of trust in the financial industry. EBC 's various operating entities hold financial regulatory licenses issued by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australia's Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), and South Africa's Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), strictly adhering to local regulatory rules in their operations.

Leveraging its FCA-regulated liquidity access, EBC has established long-term and stable partnerships with over 50 leading banks and non-bank liquidity providers globally. By integrating clearing-grade liquidity quotes, EBC provides clients with direct access to the primary liquidity market, delivering highly competitive institutional-grade liquidity depth and bank-level spreads, allowing clients to easily enjoy extremely low transaction costs. All clients within the group can enjoy top-tier liquidity access through its FCA license; even for offshore accounts, quotes and orders are ultimately processed by a UK company. Combining big data and AI algorithms to optimize order matching mechanisms, EBC achieves over 87.6% of its orders executed at more favourable prices. For high-frequency and high-volume traders, EBC offers the customized EBC Private Room, a dedicated segregated trading channel that conceals trading orders and avoids market order manipulation. EBC is also one of the few licensed brokers in the industry capable of providing qualified professional investors with FCA liquidity clearing accounts with leverage up to 100x.

The Group’s core management team has over 30 years of experience working in large global financial institutions, having gone through multiple complete financial cycles. They have held core management positions in institutions regulated by the FCA, SEC, and CFTC, and their expertise covers key areas such as brokerage business, operations management, compliance and governance, and corporate risk management.

EBC has been named World Finance's "Best Broker in the World" for four consecutive years, earning the trust of over 5 million registered users worldwide. Upholding a long-term perspective, the Group actively fulfils its social responsibilities: as an official partner of FC Barcelona, it collaborates with the University of Oxford’s Department of Economics to promote financial education, supports the UN Foundation's "United to Beat Malaria" project, and partners with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) to advance women's empowerment and social equity.

EBC firmly believes that everyone who trades seriously deserves to be treated seriously.
https://www.ebc.com/ 

Media Contact: 
Faiz Alavi Sulaiman
Global Public Relations Senior Executive
faiz.sulaiman@ebc.com  

Aldric Tinker
Global Public Relations Lead
aldric.tinker@ebc.com 


SOURCE: EBC Tech Limited

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