Inovatif

Author: admin

  • Execution remains key for 13th Malaysia Plan

    The recently tabled 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) continues the government’s dual-focus approach of fiscal consolidation alongside sustained support for growth. The headline development expenditure (DevEx) allocation of RM430 bil over five years represents a marked step-up in investment. This translates to an average allocation of RM86 bil per annum from 2026 to 2030, well above the RM79 bil annual average recorded from 2021 to 2024 and nearly double the pre-pandemic average of RM48 bil between 2015 and 2019. Spread evenly, this roughly works out to the government spending at least 3% of GDP on DevEx each year, with more than half of the total allocation (52.8%) directed to the economic sector. This should underpin the much needed infrastructure build-out, human-capital development and innovation-driven projects under the 13MP.

    Realistic Growth Ambition
    The plan targets an average annual GDP growth of 4.5%–5.5% over 2026–2030, a range close to the 5.2% average growth recorded between 2021–2024. We believe that this target is both realistic and achievable, and is also similar to our baseline medium-term GDP growth expectation of circa 5.0%, provided global headwinds remain manageable and domestic policy support continues.

    Fiscal Consolidation Remains on Track
    The 13MP reiterated its commitment to narrow the fiscal deficit to below 3% of GDP by 2030, from the 4.1% recorded in 2024. Assuming the total development expenditure is somewhat evenly spread across 2026–2030 and real GDP grows within the targeted range of 4.5%–5.5%, the deficit ratio should be on track to decline toward the sub-3% objective.

    This fiscal consolidation is important to help lower the government’s debt load, which climbed to 64.6% of GDP as at end-2024 from 52.4% in 2019, and in turn ease its debt-servicing burden. Interest payments reached 15.6% of government revenue as of end-2024, up from 12.5% in 2019, which suggests that for every RM100 in government revenue earned, about RM16 is used to pay interest on borrowing. Sustained deficit reduction, therefore, helps avoid the crowding out of productive spending and frees up resources for development priorities over the long run.

    Human-Capital and Income Targets
    The 13MP aspires to raise compensation of employees (CE) to 40% of GDP by 2030, a commendable target in order to resolve Malaysia’s widely talked about issue of ‘stagnant’ wages. However, this would require an average annual CE growth of 11.1% between 2026 and 2030, more than double the 5.3% pace under the 12MP and higher than the pre-pandemic (2016-2019) average of 7.1%. With CE share at only 33.6% in 2024, achieving this will demand effective wage policies, including continued minimum-wage adjustments, stronger graduate and TVET wage progression, and broad-based productivity enhancements.

    The Plan also addresses investments in human capital and preparation as the nation transitions into an aged nation. Latest projections by the Department of Statistics Malaysia indicate that the country will transition into an “aged society” by around 2050, with the working-age population share expected to fall from 70% in 2025 to 68%. Coupled with declining birth rates (total fertility rate of 1.7 in 2023 versus 2.0 in 2013), Malaysia faces a shrinking labour force. The review of the mandatory retirement age, alongside a comprehensive strategy for workforce upskilling and an emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to address skill mismatch issues under 13MP, should help mitigate some of the labour market challenges ahead.

    Execution Remains Key
    As with previous plans, execution remains the linchpin. The enhanced Policy Implementation Plan and monitoring system known as MyRMK will oversee integrated implementation across ministries. The enhanced transparency, which enables timely course corrections, provides the necessary tools for success. Whether the 13MP targets can be met will depend heavily on the effectiveness of execution and the discipline to follow through with the plans.

    The 13MP strikes a prudent balance between fiscal consolidation and growth support, with a sizeable and well-targeted DE envelope and a realistic growth target. While sectoral allocations and digital-innovation drivers are well calibrated, execution capacity and human-capital challenges, particularly the ambitious income share goal, will be decisive. Strong implementation governance, more effective measures to minimise leakages and ensure efficient use of public funds, coupled with supportive policies for wages and innovation, will be critical to realising the 13MP’s 2030 vision.

  • MyCIF reaches out to MSMEs and entrepreneurs in Sabah

    Malaysia Co-Investment Fund (MyCIF) has reached out to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Sabah, for opportunities in funding business expansion and their working capital needs through equity crowdfunding (ECF) and peer-to-peer (P2P) financing.

    Sabah Minister of Industrial Development & Entrepreneurship YB Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe officiated the one-day roadshow themed “Empowering Financing, Advancing Growth” in Kota Kinabalu. Around 300 representatives from business associations, government agencies, venture capital, private equity and MSMEs attended the event.

    Organised by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), the event was supported by Invest Sabah Bhd, a key development partner with deep local networks and strong links to state and federal MSME initiatives.

    It featured networking sessions, breakout discussions, and exhibitor booths where participants engaged with SC-registered ECF and P2P platform operators and heard first-hand success stories from companies funded through MyCIF.

    MyCIF, Malaysia’s first public-private co-investment model, was set up by the Ministry of Finance under the 2019 Federal Budget. Administered by the SC, MyCIF has since co-invested in over 70,000 campaigns, benefiting more than 9,500 MSMEs nationwide. In 2024, the fund exceeded RM1 billion in total co-investments. It employs a 1:4 co-investment ratio under its General Scheme and a 1:2 ratio for targeted initiatives such as the Food Security and Environmental & Social Impact Schemes.

    SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi said that MyCIF has been a game-changer for MSME growth, providing much-needed capital that is often a challenge to access through traditional channels. “The Sabah roadshow is integral to MyCIF’s national outreach, designed to expand awareness of alternative financing among businesses across Malaysia,” he said.

    “It provides entrepreneurs a direct insight into how ECF, P2P and MyCIF can fuel their growth at every stage.”

    “The government, through MyCIF, continues to support MSMEs as key engines of growth, innovation and job creation. This is evident in the RM40 million allocation under Budget 2025 to further expand access to ECF and P2P financing nationwide,” he said. Invest Sabah Chief Executive Officer Dr. Firdausi Suffian welcomed the collaboration with the SC.

    “Partnering with the SC in this event has enabled Invest Sabah to amplify its efforts in empowering local entrepreneurs. This roadshow is a vital platform for MSMEs in Sabah to gain insights and forge connections that can help propel their businesses forward,” he said.

    As of 2024, total funds raised through MyCIF co-investments alongside private investments have surpassed RM6 billion, enabling businesses to access funding via ECF and P2P financing platforms. MyCIF has attracted 4.1 times private investments for every ringgit co-invested, demonstrating a strong crowding-in effect.

    Over the past six years, MyCIF has played a pivotal role in improving access to alternative financing, fostering the growth of over 9,500 MSMEs in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
    This reflects the continued confidence and growing interest from both investors and MSMEs in alternative financing avenues. For more information on MyCIF, visit https://www.sc.com.my/mycif.

  • Alliance Bank introduces biodiversity module in AEIOU financial literacy programme

    Alliance Bank introduces biodiversity module in AEIOU financial literacy programme

    The introduction of the biodiversity module into Alliance Bank’s AEIOU Financial Literacy Programme to primary school students in Sabah was attended by 128 primary school students from 17 schools across Kota Kinabalu, Penampang and Tuaran.

    Carrying the theme ‘AEIOU for Responsible Living: Smarter Finances, Caring for Nature, Greener Choices’, the biodiversity module of the programme was delivered in collaboration with Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Malaysia and supported by the Sabah State Treasury Department (JBNS) and the Ministry of Education.

    The programme, which began on July 5 and ended on July 26, was conducted through practical workshops and interactive simulations that provided students with the opportunity to explore the field of environmentally friendly entrepreneurship, better known as ‘ecopreneurship’.

    The highlight of the programme was the AEIOU Sabah Biodiversity Challenge’ where students aged 9-12 competed fiercely to win the competition. The finalists successfully demonstrated their knowledge while playing the ‘Eco Heroes’ board game, where their creativity, understanding of money management and sustainability awareness were put to the test.

    SK St Catherine from Kota Kinabalu, was crowned the champion of the Biodiversity Challenge and won a cash prize of RM5,000, a trophy, a medal, and a certificate of achievement for presenting an interesting story on the concept of money management and biodiversity preservation through their recycling program of reusing milk boxes.

    SK St Anthony came in second place and took home a cash prize of RM3,000, a trophy, a medal, and a certificate of participation. While SK St Agnes came in third place and took home RM1,000, a trophy, a medal, and a certificate.

    The AEIOU programme, which was launched in 2015, is recognised by the Ministry of Education Malaysia and supported by Bank Negara Malaysia, based on the concept of fostering financial skills among young Malaysians.

    The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by Yang Berhormat Tuan Wong Kah Woh, Deputy Minister of Education, and was attended by nearly 142 students and 38 teachers.

    According to YB Wong, “The overwhelming response from the students and the encouraging number of participation is proof that the message of nature conservation has truly touched their hearts.”

    He added, “I would like to commend Alliance Bank for its continued commitment to fostering biodiversity awareness among the younger generation. As the saying goes, “As the twig is bent, so grows the tree”, it is important for us to provide knowledge and awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity from a young age so that they can become responsible environmental stewards in the future.”

    Meanwhile, Alliance Bank Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer. Dr. Aaron Sum said, “I am confident that with this kind of programme, students will realise that their daily activities and decisions have an impact on the environment and through this understanding, they will be able to develop a responsible attitude towards the environment.”

    He added, “I am very proud of all the students who participated in the AEIOU Sabah Biodiversity Challenge and hope that what they have learned will be put into practice and shared with other friends and family.”

    The prize giving ceremony was also attended by representatives from Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots Malaysia. Its President, TP Lim conveyed his appreciation and said, “We are pleased to share the success of the recently concluded biodiversity module developed in collaboration with Alliance Bank. This partnership has been instrumental in expanding environmental awareness among schoolchildren and strengthening our commitment to biodiversity conservation.

    Since its launch in 2015, the AEIOU Challenge Programme has reached over 180,000 primary school students through its seven editions. The programme also provides community outreach, ensuring that all children have access to financial education resources. Students can continue their financial learning journey through the AEIOU mobile app, which provides financial education videos and digital comics. The acquisition of these resources supports the key objectives of the Ministry of Education’s 2027 School Curriculum framework, prioritising the importance of lifelong learning.

  • Standard Chartered and Alibaba Group partners to propel AI development

    Standard Chartered and Alibaba Group partners to propel AI development

    Standard Chartered (“the Bank”) and Alibaba Group Holding Limited (“Alibaba” or “Alibaba Group”) have entered into a strategic partnership, utilising Alibaba Cloud’s AI technologies to accelerate the pace at which the financial services sector embraces Artificial Intelligence (AI).

    According to the Memorandum of Understanding, Standard Chartered will work with Alibaba Cloud as its strategic partner for AI technologies to enhance operational efficiency and elevate the customer experience. Leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s intelligent solutions and AI technologies, the collaboration aims to help the Bank elevate its competitive edge. This includes developing AI-powered customer service and sales intelligence to raise the bar on customer engagement, automating AI-driven risk management and compliance, and upskilling its talents through AI workshops and certifications.

    The partnership will also support Alibaba Group’s strategic development globally, with Standard Chartered providing a comprehensive range of banking services that is tailored to meet Alibaba Group’s business needs, from financial support, supply chain financing support, cross border fund management solutions, to deepening the collaboration in financial market. Both parties will also actively enhance cooperation in the areas of sustainable development and sustainable finance.

    Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered, said: “We are investing heavily in cutting-edge technologies like AI, which are transforming our own business model and reshaping the future of finance. I am excited to build on our existing relationship with Alibaba Group – a global leader in AI and other areas including e-commerce and retail – and advance our shared commitment to transformative innovation. By combining Alibaba Group’s technological prowess with our financial expertise, we look to harness the full potential of AI technologies to advance on our innovation agenda while also creating long-term value for our clients, colleagues, and communities.”

    Eddie Wu, CEO of Alibaba Group, added: “From education to healthcare and scientific research, AI has already shown its potential to drive transformational change. We are thrilled to partner with Standard Chartered, a global leader in financial services, to shape the transformation in the financial sector. Through this strategic alliance, we will combine Alibaba’s technological expertise with Standard Chartered’s deep industry knowledge to unlock new possibilities.”

  • Conlay Signature Suites by E&O offers move-in ready luxury

    Conlay Signature Suites by E&O offers move-in ready luxury

    Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O), in partnership with Japan’s leading real estate company, Mitsui Fudosan Group, has officially launched Conlay Signature Suites, the second and final phase of its landmark Conlay development.

    Developed on 1.44 acres of freehold land, the project comprises two phases, with the initial phase titled Conlay Residences and the higher second phase, Conlay Signature Suites. The development is positioned across the uppermost floors of the 51-storey tower, offering discerning buyers a refined collection of 194 residences, with built-ups ranging from 635 to 3,617 square feet, in 1-bedroom to 3+1-bedroom penthouse configurations.

    Priced between RM 1.52 million to RM 12 million, each unit is designed to take full advantage of unobstructed city views, golf course view and is fitted with premium finishes, exclusive fittings, and spacious layouts suited for modern cosmopolitan living. Under a build-and-sell concept, the Conlay Signature Suites are delivered fully furnished and in move-in condition to ensure a seamless ownership experience.

    Kok Tuck Cheong, Managing Director of E&O Berhad said, “The Conlay Signature Suites represent the culmination of our vision for the project, an elevated lifestyle offering, in every sense of the word. This launch reaffirms our belief that there is still strong appetite in the market for well-located, thoughtfully designed homes that offer not just quality, but distinction”.

    Crafted by the internationally acclaimed Kerry Hill Architects, in partnership with award winning GDP Architects and with landscape design by Seksan Design, Conlay by E&O has a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM 968 million and combines timeless resort-inspired design with urban sophistication.

    Market response to Conlay by E&O has been encouraging. To date, Conlay Residences has been fully sold, while the newly introduced Signature Suites has already recorded a 40% take-up since its soft launch in May this year. This reflects sustained demand for well-conceived, high-end residences in Kuala Lumpur’s city centre.

    Mr Masayoshi Saito, Managing Director of Mitsui Fudosan (Asia) Malaysia, added, “We take great pride in joining forces with E&O to bring Conlay to life, a project that exemplifies our shared dedication to delivering sophisticated urban living experiences.”

    “This partnership combines Mitsui Fudosan’s global vision with E&O’s strong heritage in hospitality and design, creating a truly iconic address for discerning buyers in Kuala Lumpur” he said.

    The Conlay by E&O is supported by an extensive suite of lifestyle and wellness facilities spread across Levels 11 and 36, including heated infinity pools, gymnasiums, themed communal spaces, a library, billiard and music rooms, and sky dining. A dedicated lifestyle and F&B level on the 50th floor further elevates the living experience.

    Residents will also enjoy 24-hour on-demand concierge services, which includes access to a personal chef for private dinners, housekeeping, food and newspaper delivery, pre-arrival shopping, car hires, and basic unit maintenance services.

    Kok added that a premier F&B brand is expected to open on Level 50 in the coming months.
    To reflect E&O’s commitment to creating developments that are both luxurious and responsible, this project has received provisional GreenRE Gold certification. The project incorporates extensive sustainability measures throughout its design and construction, including energy-efficient fittings, natural ventilation systems, and environmentally certified materials.

    Located within easy walking distance from the Conlay MRT station, the development enjoys seamless connectivity to Kuala Lumpur’s premier shopping and lifestyle precincts including Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang and KLCC.

    “Every detail of the Signature Suites is inspired by our commitment to hospitality and craftsmanship. We believe the Conlay Signature Suites will appeal to those seeking both legacy and lifestyle,” said Kok.

  • Manulife Investments launches Shariah Dynamic Leaders Fund

    Manulife Investments announced today the launch of the Manulife Shariah Dynamic Leaders Fund (“the Fund”), the firm’s first Shariah-compliant global equity fund in Malaysia. The Fund focuses on investing in the world’s industry-leading companies that can generate consistent quality growth, aiming to help investors capture potential equity market upside and strong risk-adjusted returns.

    Through an actively managed strategy, the Manulife Shariah Dynamic Leaders Fund seeks current and future industry leaders in their respective sectors amid a dynamic business and economic environment. It targets companies with strong brand recognition, attractive growth profiles, and the ability to deliver consistent margins and profitability – traits that support long-term capital appreciation with appropriate levels of risk. This active approach is essential in selecting the 40 to 60 large cap companies for the portfolio, while aligning with Shariah Principles of investing. The Fund also combines top-down macro views, bottom-up insights, and in-depth risk and factor positioning to manage market weakness.

    Jason Chong, CEO, Manulife Investments, Malaysia, said: “At Manulife Investments, we are committed to bringing the most appropriate solutions that can help investors in Malaysia achieve their long-term financial goals, while also addressing their investment preference. As markets continue to evolve, building a portfolio that seeks to participate in market upside while managing downside risk has become increasingly important. This fund is designed to identify resilient companies with strong fundamentals and sustainable growth drivers, guided by the disciplined approach of our experienced investment team.”

    “The Fund’s unconstrained approach aims to maximize returns across varying market cycles by dynamically allocating into secular, cyclical, and stable growth companies. The selection of companies will also be determined by the continuous evaluation of the effectiveness of the portfolio in turning risk into reward. As such, we believe the fund could potentially deliver consistent and better investment outcomes for investors in Malaysia,” he also added.

    The Manulife Shariah Dynamic Leaders Fund strives to achieve greater capital growth by investing at least 80% of its net assets in a concentrated portfolio of equity and equity related securities of large capitalisation companies (i.e. companies with a minimum market capitalisation of US$10 billion) listed globally (including in emerging markets from time to time), including, but not limited to, common stocks and depositary receipts.

  • MyCIF surpasses RM1 Billion co-investment mark

    The Malaysia Co-Investment Fund (MyCIF) has exceeded RM1 billion in total co-investments since its inception, a major a milestone in supporting the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.

    MyCIF, set up by the Ministry of Finance under Budget 2019, has been a pivotal force in the financing landscape, utilising equity crowdfunding (ECF) and peer-to-peer (P2P) financing platforms to channel funds into MSMEs.

    Since its inception, more than 9,500 MSMEs have benefited from MyCIF’s co-investments.
    In its Annual Performance Report 2024 released today, MyCIF said total co-investments reached RM1.19 billion as of end-2024, with RM264 million invested in 2024 alone.

    MyCIF has attracted 4.1 times in private sector funding for every ringgit invested, demonstrating a strong crowding-in effect. This saw a 21.4% increase in total private investment.

    The RM1.19 billion total co-investments by MyCIF represents 4.6 times of RM260 million total funds disbursed from the Government to date into the program, demonstrating efficient use of public funds.

    In addition to the General Scheme 1:4 co-investment, MyCIF continues to bolster strategic and underserved segments of the economy through targeted schemes. These include Food Security and Environmental & Social Enterprise Schemes with preferential 1:2 co-investment ratio.
    Co-investments in these segments rose to RM7 million in 2024 from RM3.4 million in 2023, reflecting MyCIF’s strengthened commitment to targeted investment areas.

    Under Budget 2025, MyCIF has earmarked up to RM40 million for promoting innovative Islamic risk-sharing financing through ECF and P2P platforms.

    This allocation complements existing MyCIF schemes and aims to encourage greater adoption of Islamic financing structures (Musharakah and Mudharabah concepts) by offering the following incentives:

    • MyCIF will invest on a first-loss basis in ECF and P2P campaigns based on Islamic risk-sharing models; and
    • For P2P campaigns, MyCIF will additionally invest at 0% financing rate.

    In July 2024, MyCIF introduced the Environmental & Social Impact Scheme to support impact-driven businesses in environment, community, food security, education, and healthcare sectors. The scheme also extends to MSMEs financing Waqf asset development projects within these focus areas.

    To enhance awareness and access to financing, MyCIF hosted its inaugural Nationwide Roadshow in Penang in February 2025, themed “Empowering Financing, Advancing Growth.” The event, supported by the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), aimed to raise MyCIF’s profile and benefits among MSMEs in the northern states of Malaysia.

  • Avoiding obvious mistakes: Octa broker breaks down security tools in trading

    Avoiding obvious mistakes: Octa broker breaks down security tools in trading

    There are multiple risk factors in trading, and navigating them requires patience and experience. To alleviate that pressure, modern trading platforms offer some highly practical tools that help to manage risks and avoid losses. Unfortunately, many traders are either unaware of these tools or have got used to trading without them. In this article, the experts at Octa, a globally regulated and trusted broker since 2011, break down some noteworthy features that seasoned traders use to mitigate the risks and improve their outcomes.

    Common challenges
    Trading can be a very intense experience. Each trade puts knowledge and skills to the test, creating a decisive stress factor. It’s like taking an exam with a limited time over and over, but the test questions and conditions are different each time.

    Octa leverages its extensive market experience to offer transparent trading conditions and fast, reliable withdrawals. The broker’s trustworthiness and transparency reduce the cognitive load involved in trading and allow traders to fully concentrate on their performance.

    The tools at hand
    Any trader strives to get additional income with each session, and the high significance of financial outcomes can get on their nerves. Luckily, modern trading platforms have a few simple yet efficient tools that help to automate the routine and improve outcomes.

    To simplify the trading process, Octa broker creates a reliable, secure trading environment and introduces accessible and efficient features to its platform. Below are some of the tools any trader should consider to achieve more consistent results.

    1. Stop loss and take profit
    Stop-loss and take-profit orders are by far the most popular and accessible risk management tools in trading. These tools automatically close a position once it hits a predefined mark, either cutting losses or locking in gains—just as their names suggest.

    Most trading tutorials emphasise the importance of regularly using these orders as part of the risk management routine. However, Octa broker’s survey showed that between 29% and 35% of traders apply risk management tools only when attempting a hazardous trade. In most cases, they trust their trading intuition to exit the trade on time. Unfortunately, this approach is risky and can cause significant losses. Remember, risk management tools are there to be used.

    2. Trailing stop and break even
    These tools allow traders to set up dynamic, market-sensitive exit points to secure the gains already made in a trade. While a standard stop-loss order is static and usually applied at the initial stage of a trade, trailing stop automatically adjusts the exit level as the market price moves in the trader’s favour, protecting profits while giving the trade room to run.

    Similarly, a break-even order moves the stop-loss level to the trade’s entry price (or slightly above or below to cover commissions or fees) once the price has moved a predetermined amount in the trader’s favour, thereby eliminating the risk of financial loss on that particular trade.

    These tools automatically close the position at a certain price level to protect profits, allowing traders to set up a dynamic, market-sensitive stop-loss order. While a standard stop-loss order is static, both trailing stop and break-even orders follow the price as long as it moves in favour of the open position.

    Octa broker highly recommends these intuitive and flexible tools available on the broker’s proprietary platform. They offer greater control over open positions, reduce stress, and enhance resilience in unpredictable market conditions.

    3. Notifications and calculators
    However basic, math in trading is always present as a hidden but instrumental mechanism, and a solid understanding of it remains crucial. Modern trading platforms offer dedicated features to automate calculations and reduce cognitive load.

    For example, position sizing algorithms and automated margin calculators help traders maintain the needed level of exposure. They take into account the user’s current equity amount and desired risk tolerance. An automated tool can calculate how many lots to trade within a specific currency pair so that no more than 1% of the account balance is at risk on any single trade. Maintaining this disciplined and detail-focused approach manually would be very cumbersome, but luckily, the appropriate tools can streamline the process.

    On the other hand, automated alert systems provide a psychological safety net for emotional traders who are prone to anxiety. These systems monitor charts around the clock and notify traders when specific setups or market conditions emerge. Instead of staring at screens for hours, traders who use such tools can focus on strategy refinement or other analyses, knowing they won’t miss critical entry or exit opportunities.

    Modern risk-management tools allow for easier and less nerve-wracking sessions while improving overall outcomes. Brokers that wield technology and offer their clients the most accessible, up-to-date solutions create a link of trust and understanding that helps both brokers and traders reach their respective goals. With this in mind, Octa broker recommends choosing a trusted and proven broker, rather than one that simply makes the most promises.

  • SC collaborates with Durham University

    SC collaborates with Durham University

    The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has launched the Young Regulators Development Programme (YRDP), in collaboration with Durham University, United Kingdom. The two-week, intensive capacity building programme aims to cultivate a pipeline of skilled talent to support the growth and stability of regional capital markets.

    To be held annually from 2025 to 2027 in Kuala Lumpur, this programme targets early-career capital market regulators with three-to-five years of work experience from ASEAN and IOSCO member regulators.

    The YRDP serves to enhance young professionals’ competencies and aptitude by providing a strong foundation in capital market regulation and supervision while keeping them updated on emerging trends and best practices.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony between the SC and Durham University in Durham, United Kingdom, SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi said that the initiative underscores the SC’s commitment to nurturing talent and strengthening regional regulatory capacity.

    “Investing in young regulators is essential to navigating the complexities of today’s dynamic capital markets. It also aligns with the region’s ambitions to build a resilient, well governed and internationally competitive capital market.”

    “The YRDP will also foster meaningful connections among fellow regulators, paving the way for closer international collaborations in years to come,” he said.

    Durham University, ranked third in the UK and globally recognised for its excellence in law, finance and economics, brings academic rigour and international expertise to the programme.

    The course will be led by Dr. Federico Lupo-Pasini, Professor of Financial Law and Director of the MSc Law and Finance, who played a key role in developing the programme, and features guest lecturers and leading industry practitioners.

    Professor Volker Roeben, Dean of Durham Law School said, “Durham University offers education that transforms our students, and enables them to transform the world. We look forward to bringing our world-leading academic excellence to this important new programme.

    “In addition, we offer an ASEAN Financial Regulators Scholarship, providing financial support for ASEAN regulators pursuing an MSc in Law and Finance at Durham,” he said.

    “This empowers young regulators to broaden their knowledge, develop critical analytical and leadership skills, and enhance their career prospects in the evolving financial sector,” he added.

    The programme will be structured over two weeks, covering the following core areas:

    • Week 1 – Core foundations in capital market development, regulation, and supervision.
    • Week 2 – Advanced and cutting-edge themes & trends including digital assets, fintech, cybersecurity, sustainability and ESG, and Islamic finance.

    The inaugural cohort will commence in August, with Malaysia as the regional host. This location ensures greater accessibility, cost efficiency, and encourages participation from across Asia Pacific, the Middle East and other jurisdictions.

    For more information on the Young Regulators Development Programme, please contact L&D@seccom.com.my.

  • Kenanga Investment Bank’s NagaWarrants unlocks new trading frontiers with HSCEI and HSTECH warrants

    Kenanga Investment Bank’s NagaWarrants unlocks new trading frontiers with HSCEI and HSTECH warrants

    Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (Kenanga Group or The Group), announces the launch of its first-ever Hang Seng China Enterprises Index (HSCEI) structured warrants – HSCEI-CAA and HSCEI-HBA – and Hang Seng TECH Index (HSTECH) structured warrants – HSTECH-C30 and HSTECH-H27 – under its flagship brand, NagaWarrants by Kenanga (NagaWarrants).

    This launch marks a strategic expansion of the Group’s East Asia footprint, following the successful introduction of Hang Seng Index (“HSI”) structured warrants – HSI-CIW and HSI-HMO – in 2021. With HSCEI and HSTECH now listed on Bursa Malaysia, Malaysian investors will gain diversified access to two of Hong Kong’s most influential indices, offering new opportunities to tap into China’s financial and technology sectors.

    The HSCEI tracks heavyweight mainland enterprises listed in Hong Kong, including financial and infrastructure giants such as ICBC, China Construction Bank, PetroChina, and Ping An Insurance. It serves as a key benchmark for tracking the performance of China’s largest state-owned enterprises.

    The HSTECH, on the other hand, captures the growth of China’s leading tech innovators such as Tencent, Meituan, Xiaomi, and JD.com. With its focus on fast-evolving technology and innovation, HSTECH is ideal for traders with higher risk appetites looking for volatility and growth potential.

    Kenanga Group’s presence in the structured warrants market is underscored by its 64% market share in HSI warrants. In 2024, the structured warrants segment on Bursa Malaysia recorded a turnover of RM30.3 billion, contributing approximately 4% to the exchange’s total market turnover of RM848.7 billion.

    The launch of HSCEI and HSTECH structured warrants is expected to broaden market participation, diversify product offerings, and boost overall liquidity – particularly among retail traders already familiar with Hang Seng Index warrants.

    “The launch of HSCEI and HSTECH structured warrants marks a pivotal step in our mission to democratise access to global markets. As Malaysia’s leading issuer, Kenanga Group remains committed to driving innovation, expanding investor opportunities, and shaping the future of structured warrants. This initiative reflects our long-term vision to empower a new generation of traders while reinforcing our leadership in the region’s capital markets,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad.

    “In 2024, NagaWarrants achieved a record-breaking market share of 52%, with a total turnover of RM15.7 billion. This milestone also marks our 300th Hang Seng-listed structured warrant on Bursa Malaysia – a testament to our relentless drive to innovate and serve the evolving needs of Malaysian traders,” added Datuk Lee Kok Khee, Executive Director, Head of Group Equity Business of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad.

    Beyond product innovation, NagaWarrants continues to empower investors through a blend of educational outreach and advanced analytics. In 2024, it hosted over 50 webinars and events, earning the SRP Asia Pacific Award for Best Educational Initiative in 2022, 2023 and 2025. At the same time, its adoption of machine learning models – which analyse interest rate movements, market trends, and regional dynamics to anticipate demand fluctuations – has enhanced precision in warrant issuance.

    In recognition of its leadership and innovation, Kenanga Group has received several prestigious accolades, including:
    • Bursa Excellence Awards: Best Structured Warrants Issuer (2021 and 2024) (Equity and Index)
    • Global Banking & Finance Awards (UK): Best Warrants Issuer & Best Market Maker (2024 and 2025)
    • FinanceAsia (HK): Most Innovative Use of Technology (2024 and 2025)

    Looking ahead, Kenanga Group remains committed to supporting investors through innovation, education and access to global markets. To explore trading opportunities and stay informed, visit www.nagawarrants.com or join our Telegram community (@NagaWarrants).