Author: admin

  • 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).

  • SMCCI and Maybank partner to boost SME growth in the halal economy across JS-SEZ and ASEAN

    SMCCI and Maybank partner to boost SME growth in the halal economy across JS-SEZ and ASEAN

    The Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) and Maybank Singapore Limited (Maybank) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance Halal-focused initiatives and support the growth of SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and Malay/Muslim-owned enterprises in Singapore and Malaysia. This partnership will focus particularly on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), and extend across the wider ASEAN region.

    Under this strategic partnership, SMCCI and Maybank will jointly organise events, conferences and trade visits to facilitate market access, knowledge-sharing, and Halal capability development. Leveraging its regional insights and community ties in Johor, SMCCI will provide guidance to its members on business setup, market entry, workspace solutions, policy updates and market intelligence. Through this partnership, around 300 SMCCI members stand to benefit from enhanced support and expanded regional opportunities.

    Maybank will complement SMCCI’s efforts with its full suite of banking solutions, while continuing its successful collaboration through the Bank’s myimpact Microbusiness Programme, which empowers underserved entrepreneurs through business training, mentorship, and seed funding.

    “We see rising demand from our members to explore opportunities in the JS-SEZ and the region especially in the Halal sector,” said Dr Abdul Malik Hassan, President of SMCCI. “By partnering with Maybank, we are strengthening the support ecosystem for entrepreneurs that are ready to take that step. Together, we aim to make cross-border growth more accessible, and assist Malay/Muslim-owned enterprises in Singapore navigate the regional landscape.”

    Sazzali Sabandi, Head of Islamic Banking at Maybank in Singapore said, “The Halal economy is a fast-growing sector with enormous potential across ASEAN. Beyond Malaysia and Indonesia, we are seeing emerging interests from Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia in gaining a slice of the global Halal market that is estimated to reach USD5 trillion by 2030. With Maybank’s presence in all 10 ASEAN countries, we are able to support SMEs with the right tools and financial solutions to seize cross-border opportunities. We are proud of this collaboration with SMCCI as it is centred on Maybank’s purpose of humanising financial services, supported by our values-driven platform.”

  • Maybank becomes first Southeast Asian bank to grant  sustainability-linked loan to Austria’s AT&S

    Maybank becomes first Southeast Asian bank to grant sustainability-linked loan to Austria’s AT&S

    Maybank announced it is granting a Sustainability-Linked Loan (SLL) amounting to USD150 million to Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Malaysia (AT&S Malaysia). This landmark transaction marks the first SLL issued by a Malaysian and Southeast Asian commercial bank to AT&S, and notably the first such facility by a local lender to a multinational company in Malaysia’s semiconductor sector. This deal follows a USD250 million loan provided to AT&S Malaysia by International Finance Corporation (IFC) in March 2025 and concludes the parallel loan arranged by IFC under the same agreement.

    AT&S Malaysia is the subsidiary of Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Aktiengesellschaft (AT&S), a public listed company in Vienna and a leading global manufacturer of high-end printed circuit boards (PCB) and integrated circuit (IC) substrates.

    The said financing will support the development of AT&S’ first high-end IC substrate plant in Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Malaysia, that will include state-of-the-art equipment and closed-loop recycling systems, adhering to AT&S’ comprehensive sustainable energy framework. The facility will produce advanced IC substrates, essential components to meet surging demand for high-performance data processors, data centres, and AI infrastructure. Its clients include among others, AMD for data centre processors. With over USD1 billion committed to Malaysia, this represents AT&S Group’s largest initial investment.

    The targets attached to the SLL include reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions by 31% by March 31, 2028, using fiscal year 2022 as the baseline.

    Dato’ John Chong, Group Chief Executive Officer, Global Banking of Maybank said, “We are pleased to back AT&S in developing its first IC substrate facility in Kulim that further strengthens Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor value chain. The financing aligns with our strategic focus on the semiconductor ecosystem in Southeast Asia where we have identified financing opportunities. The SLL structure also strengthens our commitment to mobilising sustainable finance and powering the region’s green transition. This transaction is also a reaffirmation of our growing collaboration with the International Finance Corporation.” From 2021 to the end of Q1 2025, Maybank mobilised RM125.46 billion in sustainable finance across ASEAN, surpassing its RM80 billion target by 2025.

    Petra Preining, Chief Financial Officer, AT&S said, “We welcome Maybank as a valued financing partner in our investment in the Kulim facility. This transaction is a milestone for both Maybank and AT&S as it represents the first time AT&S has raised financing at its Malaysian subsidiary level.”

    “Our sizeable investment of over USD1 billion in Malaysia follows the demand from our global clients, and reflects our confidence in Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem and its growth trajectory. It also aligns with the ambitions of Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 to position the country as a leading hub for advanced manufacturing,” said Michael Mertin, President and CEO, AT&S. “For AT&S the new facility is an important foundation for our profitable growth path based on superior technology, experience and our global leading customers.”

    AT&S ranks sixth in high-end PCBs market and fifth in IC substrates market globally in terms of revenue. The company is also the only non-Asian company producing IC-substrates in significant volumes and one of two non-Asian companies among the top 50 PCB companies in the world.

     

  • RAM BCI: Businesses still pessimistic about their three-month outlook in 2Q 2025

    The RAM Business Confidence Index (BCI) dropped further to 40.0 in 2Q 2025 (1Q 2025: 41.1). This marks the second consecutive quarter of negative sentiment on business prospects, which aligns with the rapidly escalating risks in global trade stemming from rising US protectionism policy. Three out of five sub-indices declined Q-o-Q, namely sales, capital investment and capacity utilisation.

     

    Consistent with the overall cautious and subdued business outlook, rising cost of doing business remains the most pressing issue, with 80% of firms citing it as top concern. More competition and weak economic conditions also pose significant hurdles, with 63% of firms identifying them as key challenges. The share of firms citing supply chain issues also jumped 11 percentage-points to 40% in this survey.

    Impact of US tariffs under spotlight

    A special focus for this quarter’s survey, which was conducted from 29 May 2025 to 28 June 2025 polling 33 firms, was the impact of the US tariffs on Malaysian goods. Around two-thirds of firms surveyed anticipate a negative impact from these tariffs, of which a significant 27% of firms expect a major negative impact, with firms anticipating moderate and minor impact each at 18%. Sales and revenue topped the list of business aspects likely to be hit, followed by profit margins, supply chains and cash flow.

    In response, firms are mainly adopting cost-related strategies to mitigate tariff impacts. About 42% are focusing on cutting operational expenses, while 39% are adjusting pricing strategies to remain competitive.

    Demand for government support
    Businesses are calling for more assistance from the government, especially in terms of better access to financing and working capital. Grants and direct subsidies are equally in demand to help offset the challenges posed by trade tensions.

    The latest RAM BCI survey highlights the growing pressures Malaysian businesses face from rising costs, intensified competition and external trade disruptions such as US tariffs. Chris W.K. Lee, RAM Holdings Berhad Group CEO and Executive Director said, “While businesses remain cautious, it is encouraging to see that companies are still investing and hiring. It is crucial that government and industry stakeholders work together to respond to the new challenges for businesses to survive and thrive.”

  • Hong Leong Bank launches next-generation branches for enhanced customer experience and interpersonal connection

    Hong Leong Bank launches next-generation branches for enhanced customer experience and interpersonal connection

    As part of its bank-wide transformation plan, of Hong Leong Bank’s (HLB or the Bank) has unveiled the latest chapter in its ambitious branch transformation initiative with the unveiling of its next-generation branches.

    These include reimagined flagship branches in Old Klang Road, Cheras, and Kota Damansara, alongside a renewed branch in Cheng, Melaka. This comprehensive branch transformation builds on the success of the iconic Light Street branch in Penang launched exactly one year ago and the innovative Meet @ HLB concept introduced in Eco Majestic, Semenyih early this year.

    In a resounding testament to its innovative branch banking approach, HLB has also been awarded the Best Branch Transformation Initiative in Asia Pacific 2025 award by The Asian Banker. This prestigious recognition underscores the Bank’s leadership in redefining the physical banking experience and its unwavering commitment to customer-centricity.

    Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director and CEO of HLB, commented on the Bank’s strategic imperative to transcend branch banking model, as HLB works towards becoming the Best Run Bank in Malaysia.

    “As a Digital Bank Plus Much More, we’re reimagining our physical branches as a “one-stop centre”. Here, you can address all your financial needs, from setting up your children’s first savings account to comprehensive legacy planning and supporting your business growth with SME loans and green financing. We’re also collaborating with other Hong Leong Financial Group companies to offer an extended range of products and services, including comprehensive insurance services and advisory centers, ensuring all your banking needs can be met under one roof. This creates a truly hybrid banking model, where our physical presence amplifies our digital capabilities by serving as centers for complex financial advisory, in-person portfolio management, and relationship building.”

    To achieve this excellence in efficiency and customer experience, HLB’s reimagined branches are meticulously designed to foster an inviting, warm, and friendly atmosphere, where comfortable interiors encourage meaningful conversations about customers’ financial futures.

    “This is where human connection truly matters most,” Lam added. “Crucial interactions, such as wealth advisory, insurance planning, and in-depth discussions about business growth, require a high degree of trust, empathy, and tailored advice. These new spaces are crafted to facilitate those private, conducive environments, because trust cannot be transacted; it must be built through genuine human interaction.”

    Each branch within HLB’s comprehensive network is tailored to its local demographic, ensuring customers receive the most seamless, relevant, and accessible banking experience possible. The reimagined flagship branches now include a dedicated Priority Banking Center, which offers a private and inviting environment for customers.

    Similarly, for the Bank’s business and corporate clients, these branches serve as vital community hubs, facilitating essential in-person discussions for business owners seeking financing, navigating uncertainties, or bespoke advisory services, reinforcing the invaluable human connection and dedicated partnership that empowers their growth.

    The four branches launched by HLB are just the first in a series of renewed branches that will be rolled out in the near future, as the Bank looks to further enhance its branch banking network and provide a seamless banking experience for its customers.

  • FedEx empowers APAC businesses to navigate global trade shifts

    FedEx empowers APAC businesses to navigate global trade shifts

    Federal Express Corporation is helping businesses across Asia Pacific navigate an evolving trade landscape marked by tariff-induced uncertainties and heightened customs complexity. FedEx has been conducting webinars to help its customers stay agile in managing regulatory changes and responding to shifting trade environments. The response to its latest webinar series demonstrates the need for guidance within the business community. Over 6,500 participants registered from across the region.

    The company’s role as experienced trade facilitators gives it a front-row seat to gauge sentiment in the business community:

    • One third (29%) of respondents attending FedEx webinars are not planning on changing their supply chain strategy.
    • More than half (52%) are considering supply chain diversification over the next 12 months to better adapt to global trade uncertainty.
    • A fifth (19%) are actively pursuing such plans.
    • Businesses have identified ongoing tariff uncertainty (41%) and increasing costs (29%) as both the drivers’ and key barriers to supply chain diversification.

    These insights underscore the growing importance of leveraging best practices and the expertise of trade experts to tackle customs challenges and enhance supply chain resilience.

    “Resilience has become a strategic imperative in a trade environment of constant transformation through shifting regulations, changing trade flows, and digital disruption,” said Salil Chari, senior vice president of Marketing & Customer Experience for Asia Pacific at FedEx. “While many are adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach before making major strategic changes, the most future-ready businesses will be those that invest in flexibility, embrace innovation, and rely on trusted partners to stay ahead of change.”

    Best Practices for Seamless Customer Experience Supported by FedEx’s Comprehensive Suite of Services

    Amid ongoing regulatory uncertainty, businesses need to be better equipped to navigate increasing complexity. By leveraging the FedEx comprehensive suite of services, including digital trade tools and tailored solution guides, businesses can minimize delays, avoid unexpected costs and maintain operational efficiencies.

    1.Rely on Expert Guidance

    • Regularly check for expert guidance on tariffs, customs policies, and required documentation through reliable sources like the FedEx U.S. Tariff Hub.
    • Access FedEx Trade Solutions for personalised trade consulting, advisory solutions for immediate challenges, and managed solutions for ongoing compliance and regulatory needs

    2. Gather Essential Information for Seamless Clearance

    • Provide Clear and Accurate Product Descriptions: Include specific details such as material composition, intended use, quantity, and country of manufacture.
    • Use the Correct HS Codes: Ensure the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) codes are included in all shipping documents. Customers can leverage the enhanced HS code feature in FedEx Ship ManagerTM at fedex.com powered by the latest AI technology to improve compliance.
    • Include Manufacturer Identification Code (MID): For certain shipments, particularly textiles and apparel, provide the MID code on both the Air Waybill and commercial invoices to ensure smooth customs clearance.
    • Prepare for Formal Entry Requirements: Ensure the consignee’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) is included for formal entry shipments to avoid delays or returns.

    3. Leverage Tailored Digital Trade Tools

    • Utilise tools such as FedEx Global Trade Manager to estimate duties and taxes, identify applicable tariffs, and access essential trade resources.
    • Take advantage of Electronic Trade Documents to electronically submit data, enabling paperless processing and accelerated customs clearance with reduced delay risks.

    4. Select a Reliable Logistics Expert with a Robust Global Network

    • Customers can leverage the comprehensive FedEx portfolio of day-definite parcel and freight services that balance speed with competitive pricing to support their business growth. With its one-stop solution, designed to handle everything from single packages to large pallet or container shipments.
    • FedEx also continues to invest in infrastructure to support regional trade. In addition to its strong intra-Asia network, the recent launch of a direct Singapore-Anchorage flight improves transit times between Southeast Asia and the U.S., offering faster delivery options for businesses in the region. FedEx also launched a new flight connecting its Asia Pacific Hub in Guangzhou, China to Bangalore, India and onwards to Liege and Paris in Europe in November last year. The flight operates five times per week to enhance intra-Asia and Europe connectivity.

    As global trade dynamics shift, FedEx trade expertise, industry-leading customs clearance capabilities, and game-changing digital solutions, empower its customers to navigate customs complexities with confidence and seize new opportunities.

    To stay informed of the latest tariff policy changes and access FedEx’s latest solutions and support, businesses are encouraged to explore the FedEx U.S. Tariff Hub and contact their local FedEx representative for personalised support.

     

  • CelcomDigi’s flagship retail store empowers Malaysians to realise connected living

    CelcomDigi’s flagship retail store empowers Malaysians to realise connected living

    CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi) launched Life, its new flagship physical stores that mark a bold step forward in retail innovation. Located at The Gardens Mall and Sunway Pyramid, these Life stores are designed as experiential hubs for customers to easily discover, experiment with and own the very latest in connected technology.

    The Life stores are built for discovering the latest in connected living. It caters to diverse customer segments regardless of age or tech know-how, from content creators on the move, to a busy parent building a smart home, a wellness tech enthusiast, or one just starting their connected journey.

    CelcomDigi’s Chief Executive Officer Datuk Idham Nawawi said, “Our retail transformation is a testament of our strong commitment to deliver exceptional service to our customers, every day. Malaysians continue to value the ability to touch, feel, and explore — and we are meeting this need through a bold, immersive retail experience with the technologies that are shaping our future.

    “Our flagship Life stores bring together the best in connected technology and content all in one experiential space for customers to comfortably discover and adopt smart solutions for everyday living. Working with visionary partners like Samsung and Disney, this concept reflects our commitment to make connected living more accessible, and to being a brand that Malaysians can trust and rely on in this age of digital-everything.”

    A next-gen retail experience: The best of technology and content, made better with CelcomDigi
    Spanning 3,500 square feet, the Life stores feature a vibrant ecosystem of over 20 partners and introduces a unique “store-within-a-store” experience. This is a first in Malaysian telco retail, where two global household brands, Samsung and Disney, have dedicated experiential zones that give customers a firsthand feel of the best in smart tech and content.

    The Stage
    This exclusive collaboration with Samsung showcases the brand’s latest innovation, including lifestyle-focused wearables, smart appliances and fitness tech. Customers can interact with the products and make instant purchases via the ‘Endless Aisle’, a wall-sized interactive screen that enables seamless online ordering, payment, and home delivery.

    Pixar Connect Lounge, The Gardens Mall and Marvel Connect Lounge, Sunway Pyramid
    Designed in partnership with Disney, the Pixar Connect Lounge is a family-focused space inspired by Toy Story and Marvel and tablets pre-loaded with interactive activities and apps inspired by Disney stories, along with merchandise from DisneyStore.asia

    Throughout the grand opening weekends of 16 to 20 July 2025 (The Gardens Mall) and 23 to 27 July 2025 (Sunway Pyramid), customers will enjoy exclusive discounts on selected accessories, purchase with purchase promotions from as low as RM1, limited-time bundle deals and free gifts for the first 100 customers at each location. CelcomDigi customers can enjoy 15% off purchases on Samsung’s Endless Aisle, and a rewarding 30% off if they are a CelcomDigi customer with a Samsung device contract.

    CelcomDigi’s retail ecosystem now spans over 10,000 touchpoints, consisting of over 50 CelcomDigi branded stores, over 300 partner-operated CelcomDigi Express stores, and thousands of modern and open trade channels. Together with the company’s online store and mobile apps, CelcomDigi now operates one of Malaysia’s largest retail networks for digital products and services.