Inovatif

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  • E&O Berhad Unveils Maris

    E&O Berhad Unveils Maris

    Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O) revealed its latest waterfront residence, Maris. Located within the vibrant Gurney Green district on Andaman Island, Maris offers residents a unique blend of urban convenience and tranquil seafront elegance.

    With a Gross Development Value (GDV) close to RM 700 million, Maris is freehold and offers 516 furnished serviced residences within a 49-storey tower. Homes are designed to cater to diverse lifestyles, featuring sizes ranging from 979 square feet for the two-bedroom units while three-bedroom units range from 1,177 square feet to 1,356 square feet. Prices of homes are expected to start from RM 950,000.

    The development also features eight waterfront shophouses, seamlessly integrating retail and residential components, allowing residents to enjoy a host of conveniences and social gatherings.

    Kok Tuck Cheong, Managing Director at E&O Berhad, said, “Maris celebrates modern waterfront living, blending luxury, functionality, and sustainability. Its marina-edge concept offers a vibrant yet serene environment, where everyday essentials are just steps away. It’s more than just a home, Maris is an experience, crafted with meticulous attention to detail to enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

    Among the standout features of The Maris are its curated facilities and amenities which include an infinity pool, forest park, pet park, gymnasium, and social spaces to foster community interaction.

    Residents will also be able to enjoy picturesque and relaxing sea views from the sky terrace, which offers swinging daybeds and outdoor dining spaces, set against the iconic Gurney Drive and Georgetown skyline.

    The launch of Maris also introduces a vibrant waterfront promenade. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique retail outlets, it offers both residents and visitors a variety of lifestyle and
    leisure experiences.

    Kok said, “As the first project to activate this promenade, Maris transforms the area into an open, welcoming space that fosters social interaction and communal living. Designed with walkability in mind, the promenade ensures easy access to amenities while encouraging an active, outdoor lifestyle. It creates an inviting environment for people to gather, connect, and enjoy shared experiences.”

    Continuing E&O Berhad’s commitment to sustainability, Maris also meets Platinum GreenRE standards, which incorporates environmentally conscious and quality materials alongside best practices to ensure energy efficiency and minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem. This will enhance both the living experience and the sustainability of the development.

    Show units for Maris are now open for viewing on Andaman and in conjunction with the coming Chinese New Year celebrations, E&O will be hosting exciting activities on February 1 between 11am to 6pm. Visitors will be able to look forward to Lion Dances, workshops, a Chinese Orchestra performance and a wide selection of food and beverages.

     

  • Bursa Malaysia concludes first edition of Invest Malaysia 2025 series

    Bursa Malaysia concludes first edition of Invest Malaysia 2025 series

    Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia”/ the “Exchange”), in collaboration with CIMB Group (CIMB) and HSBC Malaysia (HSBC) concludes the first edition of its Invest Malaysia 2025 series (“Invest Malaysia/ IM London 2025”). Themed “Malaysia’s Economic Resurgence, Driving ASEAN’s Growth”, Bursa Malaysia’s flagship capital market conference continues to promote Malaysia as a compelling investment destination, offering institutional investors and fund managers with valuable insights into Malaysia’s macroeconomic outlook, market prospects, and listed companies on the Exchange.

    As ASEAN Chair this year, Malaysia is championing the region’s role as an economic and diplomatic counterbalance in a fragmented global landscape. ASEAN’s openness and inclusivity, coupled with its USD2.8 trillion infrastructure investment needs by 2030, present significant opportunities in international collaboration.

    Present at the event, Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in fostering harmonised approaches within ASEAN through initiatives like the ASEAN-Interconnected Sustainability Ecosystem (ASEAN-ISE), and emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to global trade and partnerships, exemplified by its BRICS collaboration and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), which bolster regional growth and reinforce Malaysia’s position as a dynamic trading nation.

    During a fireside session in the event, YB Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry of Malaysia, (MITI), emphasised the resilience of Malaysia’s investment, industrial and export sectors amidst geopolitical shifts, while mentioning that industrial reforms in Malaysia would continue apace to ensure the nation’s long-term economic security, inclusivity and sustainability. He reiterated Malaysia’s neutral and non-aligned stance to maintain a healthy, open economy while upholding its foreign policy principles.

    The Minister also noted that Malaysia’s participation in BRICS would expand and diversify our markets, while the CPTPP agreement offers significant trade opportunities with the UK, eliminating 94% of tariffs and boosting key sectors like palm oil, electronics, and automotive. Additionally, the Minister shared the progress of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, as well as key features of the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), and Green Investment Strategy (GIS). The NSS aims to attract RM500 billion in investments by 2030. The GIS, on the other hand, will attract investments in the green technology sector to improve the green investment ecosystem.

    Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO of Bursa Malaysia said, “Bursa Malaysia’s Invest Malaysia series continues to be highly relevant in enhancing Malaysia’s profile among global fund managers and institutional investors. Invest Malaysia London 2025 highlights Malaysia’s remarkable economic growth in recent years, driven by political stability and clear economic policies, to UK investors. It demonstrates the country’s determination to becoming a more innovative, competitive, prosperous, and sustainable nation.”

    “The Exchange remains committed to supporting Malaysia’s economic growth narrative and will continue to implement market and structural reforms to enhance Malaysia’s dynamism and competitiveness, while strengthening market confidence,” he added.

    Since the first Invest Malaysia in 2005, 59 Invest Malaysia Away editions have been held in major financial cities worldwide, with IM London 2025 marking the 60th Invest Malaysia Away edition. This year’s session was attended by approximately 200 delegates, including foreign fixed income, equity, and private equity investors, with a combined Asset Under Management (AUM) exceeding RM228 trillion (approximately USD50.7 trillion).

  • Key trading trends to watch in 2025

    Key trading trends to watch in 2025

    Developments such as Forex market volatility, rising commodity prices, and Southeast Asia’s economic growth are poised to reshape the trading landscape in 2025. Market participants need to be aware of these trends to develop strategic approaches and mitigate risks. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa broker, highlights key trading trends to expect in 2025.

    Currency markets are bracing for heightened volatility in 2025, driven by shifting global economic conditions and monetary policy adjustments. According to S&P Global’s Economic Outlook, slowing global growth, rising inflation, and divergent interest rate policies among major central banks are expected to weigh heavily on currency pairs like EURUSD and GBPUSD. These factors, combined with trade uncertainties, could disrupt Forex market liquidity, increasing short-term volatility and widening spreads.

    The U.S. dollar is expected to maintain its status as a safe-haven asset amid continued global uncertainties. Emerging markets, however, face potential pressure as currency depreciation risks rise, particularly in regions reliant on external financing. As a result, traders are likely to focus on hedging strategies and closely monitor monetary policy decisions from the U.S. Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, and Bank of England.

    Commodity markets are set for dynamic shifts in 2025, shaped by inflationary pressures, geopolitical risks, and the global energy transition. Gold, which saw strong demand in 2024 as a safe-haven asset, is projected to maintain its upward trajectory as global economic uncertainty persists. Analysts point to ongoing geopolitical tensions and a slowdown in economic growth as key drivers of gold’s appeal in the coming year.

    Meanwhile, oil markets are likely to experience continued volatility. Supply constraints, coupled with shifts in energy demand, could push prices higher. Additionally, green energy-related commodities like lithium, copper, and nickel are increasingly valuable as governments accelerate their renewable energy initiatives. Reports highlight that commodities essential for electric vehicle production and energy storage will see sustained demand growth, creating new opportunities for commodity traders.

    Southeast Asia remains a focal point for global trade and investment, driven by strong economic fundamentals and rapid digital transformation. Countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore are leading the charge, with the region’s GDP growth forecasted to outpace global averages in 2025.

    Indonesia’s digital economy continues to expand, supported by strong consumer adoption and increased investments in infrastructure. By 2025, Southeast Asia’s internet economy is expected to reach $330 billion, reflecting a steady rise in e-commerce, fintech, and online services. Malaysia, on the other hand, remains a significant player in electronics and renewable energy, with government policies aimed at enhancing infrastructure and attracting foreign investment. Singapore, as a financial hub, maintains its strategic role in driving innovation and green technology adoption.

    While trading opportunities are abundant, 2025 brings its share of challenges. Rising global debt levels, coupled with higher borrowing costs, present risks to both developed and emerging economies. Bain & Company’s 2024 report highlights concerns over potential recessions in major markets, which could disrupt trade flows and investor sentiment.

    Geopolitical conflicts and protectionist trade policies also remain key risks. Tensions in global supply chains, particularly between the U.S. and China, could impact commodity prices and currency markets. Traders must rely on robust risk management strategies, incorporating both technical and fundamental analysis to navigate these uncertainties.

    Trading in 2025 will be defined by the volatility of the Forex market, rising demand, and the strength of Southeast Asian economies. Traders are advised to acknowledge these and other trends in advance to adjust their long-term strategies accordingly. To facilitate trend watching, market players can rely on advanced tools that allow for faster and more accurate decision-making. Such tools include Space from OctaTrader, which provides predictive insights and expert strategies for traders. Such an approach allows for improved risk management amidst volatile markets.

  • Iskandar Investment Berhad welcomes the establishment of the Johor Special Economic Zone

    Iskandar Investment Berhad welcomes the establishment of the Johor Special Economic Zone

    Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) welcomes the establishment of the JSSEZ, a transformative initiative poised to enhance Johor’s position as a leading investment destination in Southeast Asia. The formal agreement signed in Putrajaya signalled a new chapter of economic growth and cross-border collaboration, bringing substantial opportunities for Iskandar Puteri and the wider region.

    With a focus on key economic sectors such as education, the green economy, and transformative industries like energy, the JSSEZ is positioned to drive sustainable growth. Notably, the data centre industry is set for significant expansion, driven by major technology firms, aligning with global trends and positioning Johor as a leader in digital infrastructure and innovation. These initiatives reflect the shared vision of Malaysia and Singapore for sustainability and regional integration. Further enhancing connectivity, the Rapid Transit System (RTS) link, set to be operational by 2026 and capable of transporting 20,000 passengers per hour, demonstrates the significance of seamless cross-border collaboration within ASEAN.

    The signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on carbon credits and carbon capture and storage, held in conjunction with the JSSEZ agreement, further reinforces this shared dedication to addressing climate challenges. Complementing these regional efforts, IIB’s Net Zero Carbon City initiative aims to foster renewable energy solutions and environmental stewardship in Iskandar Puteri. Together, these initiatives highlight Johor’s role as a hub for innovative and sustainable development.

    Facilities like Medini International Convention City (MICC) and Tech Medini exemplify the region’s dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment and supporting economic growth. MICC will provide world-class infrastructure for global business engagements, while Tech Medini will serve as a hub for entrepreneurship and skill development, empowering the region’s youth and workforce. These initiatives reinforce Iskandar Puteri’s position as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.

    This development aligns closely with the Johor State Government’s 2025 Budget, which highlights Johor as ‘The Next Engine of Growth for the Country.’ The inclusion of initiatives such as the JSSEZ Committee and the Johor Talent Development Council emphasises the commitment to empowering communities and fostering a skilled workforce. These regional ambitions are further reinforced by Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, serving as a crucial platform to advance regional collaboration and economic resilience.

  • ANGKASA and Zurich Takaful launch MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme

    ANGKASA and Zurich Takaful launch MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme

    ANGKASA, through its subsidiary MyANGKASA Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (MHSB), in collaboration with Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad and Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad (collectively referred to as Zurich Takaful) has launched the MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme. This value-added product, which is part of ANGKASA’s Cooperative Credit System, is designed to enhance service quality, particularly for cooperatives and companies involved in the financial sector.

    ANGKASA President, Datuk Seri Dr. Abdul Fattah Abdullah, highlighted that the MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme serves as an affordable mechanism offering comprehensive protection for over 7.2 million cooperative members.

    “The scheme’s primary objective is to provide financial protection for cooperatives, companies, and members who finance loans through cooperatives or companies using ANGKASA’s Salary Deduction System (SPGA), in case of unforeseen events affecting borrowers,” he explained.

    “This scheme not only offers financial assistance to borrowers during disasters but also protects financiers by covering their financing to reduce risks of non-payment and arrears. Additionally, MyANGKASA Amanah Berhad, ANGKASA’s trust management arm, will act as the trustee and manager of the project through trust deeds signed by clients,” he added.

    “ANGKASA assures that the scheme will be managed with proper governance to ensure benefits are delivered directly to beneficiaries, along with additional protection features such as hibah (gifts), wasiat (wills), and inheritance management. This initiative sets itself apart from existing market products, offering unique advantages. Our collaboration with Zurich Takaful as a strategic partner is based on their proven excellence in management capabilities, service efficiency and claims payment reliability,” said Datuk Seri Dr. Abdul Fattah Abdullah during the launch of MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme at Wisma Ungku A. Aziz.

    Shamsul Azman, CEO of Zurich General Takaful Berhad, added, “In addition to benefits for death and permanent disability, Zurich Takaful also offers takaful protection for Involuntary Job Loss due to accidents.”

    Nur Fatihah Mustafa, CEO of Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad, highlighted that the MyANGKASA Plus Protection Scheme offers comprehensive coverage for both natural and accidental causes, ensuring that cooperative members are protected 24/7 worldwide against unforeseen circumstances.

    “This initiative is also in line with our brand ethos to ‘Care For What Matters,’ reflecting our ongoing commitment to safeguard Malaysians and empowering them to live confidently while striving for a brighter future” she added.

     

  • EA Technique and Vestigo Petroleum reach amicable understanding

    EA Technique (M) Berhad (“EATech” or “Company”), a Bursa Malaysia Main Market listed prominent marine transportation and offshore storage company, announced an amicable understanding with Vestigo Petroleum Sdn. Bhd. (“VPSB”) on matters related to past contractual arrangements.

    The fulfilment of obligation under the mutually agreed arrangement between VPSB and EATech reinforces EATech’s operational continuity and resolves past contractual arrangements. The cash inflow from the fulfilment of obligations provides an immediate boost to the Company’s liquidity, supporting its endeavour to drive the execution of its strategic turnaround plan. This also aligns with the Company’s ongoing efforts to enhance financial stability and foster sustainable growth.

    The positive outcome of this resolution reflects the strong professional relationship between EATech and VPSB, reaffirming VPSB’s position as a strategic ally to the Company’s in Malaysia’s maritime and energy sectors.

    Commenting on the agreement, Datuk Wira Mubarak Hussain Akhtar Husin, Executive Director of EATech, reiterates: “Vestigo and EATech have both demonstrated shared commitment through this resolution and remain dedicated to fostering strong, collaborative relationships. Most importantly, we aim to support each other in unlocking greater potential within the industry. This pursuit of mutual understanding highlights our focus on establishing a lasting partnership as we continue to enhance our capabilities and explore future opportunities.”

    This resolution allows EATech to fully focus on its core business areas, including marine transportation, offshore storage, and port marine services. With sustained financial strength and a clear strategic direction, EATech is poised to capitalise on opportunities across its diverse portfolio while maintaining robust relationships with its partners and stakeholders.

  • Funding Societies and foodpanda offer 2% per annum financing rates for Bumiputera merchants

    Funding Societies and foodpanda offer 2% per annum financing rates for Bumiputera merchants

    Funding Societies, Southeast Asia’s largest unified small and medium enterprise (SME) digital finance platform, has extended its partnership with Delivery Hero (M) Sdn Bhd [fka Foodpanda (M) Sdn Bhd] to offer exclusive financing for Bumiputera merchants. Eligible foodpanda merchants can access financing up to RM100,000 at a competitive 2% annual rate with a flexible financing tenor of up to 24 months. This limited-time initiative aims to empower local entrepreneurs with the capital to grow and succeed in a challenging market.

    Chai Kien Poon, Country Head, Funding Societies Malaysia, remarked, “The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) reported that Malaysia’s services sector achieved a total revenue of RM2.3 trillion in 2023, an 8.4% increase from RM2.1 trillion in 2022. Despite this growth, sub-sectors such as food and beverage (1.4%) have yet to recover to their pre-pandemic (2019) revenue levels. To support these businesses, particularly MSMEs, access to cash flow is crucial. We are hopeful that this partnership between Funding Societies and foodpanda can better assist and scale underserved, creditworthy SMEs in this industry.”

    “Furthermore, we are confident that this affordable financing can help food sellers to better restock supplies and prepare for upcoming seasonal growth amidst a potential surge in staple vegetable costs as a result of the recent floods and ahead of the festive season.”

    “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Funding Societies to offer this exclusive financing opportunity to our Bumiputera merchants. At foodpanda, we believe in empowering our merchants with the tools and resources they need to thrive in today’s challenging market. This initiative not only provides access to much-needed capital at an affordable rate but also reinforces our commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs, especially as they prepare for the upcoming festive season. Together, we aim to drive meaningful growth and resilience for our foodpanda merchant community,” said Tan Ming Luk, Managing Director, foodpanda Malaysia.

    Under this offer, Bumiputera SMEs can apply for Shariah-compliant financing with just two initial documents: identification documents (for directors and the company) and six months of bank statements. The application is fully digital, with decisions provided within days.

    Together, Funding Societies and foodpanda have assisted 500 foodpanda merchants and the latest collaboration aims to build on the momentum. Besides providing essential cash flow and growth capital, by lowering the cost of financing, the collaboration aims to level the playing field and support more underserved micro and small businesses to grow their business within the foodpanda network.

  • World’s First 27” 4K 240Hz and 27” QHD 500Hz QD-OLED and More

    At CES 2025, MSI unveiled a new series of gaming monitors featuring advanced AI-driven technologies to elevate gaming performance. These monitors include AI Navigator, which integrates the latest AI Menu, simplifying MSI AI settings adjustments in one place to provide optimal performance and a smoother experience. Designed with gamers in mind, MSI’s latest lineup delivers immersive gameplay and exceptional visual clarity, setting a new standard in gaming. Introducing MSI’s brand-new innovative gaming monitors.

    MPG 272URX QD-OLED

    The world’s first DisplayPort 2.1a (UHBR20) 27″ 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitor, the MPG 272URX QD-OLED, is equipped with a 5-layer tandem OLED panel featuring the EL Gen 3 technology. This new material composition improves efficiency up to 30%.This monitor offers stunning clarity with 166 PPI, which enhances text sharpness and significantly reduces color fringing, setting a new standard for daily visuals. Recognized for its design and innovation, it has earned the CES 2025 Innovation Award.

    With G-SYNC Compatible support, the monitor delivers smoother, tear-free gaming with reduced lag and fully compatibility with future hardware. This monitor is also perfect for all AAA game titles, ensuring an exceptional gaming experience with flawless performance and visuals.

    MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50

    For all the mainstream gamers out there, MSI is excited to introduce the world’s first 27-inch QHD 500Hz QD-OLED panel. It is equipped with DisplayPort 2.1a (UHBR20) technology, which takes the performance of all mainstream games on the market to new heights. This monitor combines stunning clarity, ultra-fast refresh rates, and 0.03ms GtG response time to deliver an unparalleled immersive and competitive gaming experience. Recognized for its outstanding performance, it has earned the VESA DisplayHDR™ True Black 500 certification. Additionally, we are proud to announce that it has also received the VESA ClearMR 21000 certification, offering exceptional color and brightness performance, along with clear dynamic visuals, providing a more realistic and smooth viewing experience.

    MPG 322URX QD-OLED

    The MPG 322URX QD-OLED, a 32-inch 4K 240Hz gaming monitor equipped with advanced DisplayPort 2.1a (UHBR20) technology, has officially launched. For all console gamers, this is definitely a must-have. It is designed to support future hardware and deliver an unparalleled gaming experience. Featuring G-SYNC Compatible technology, it ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay with minimal input lag, fully immersing gamers in their favorite titles. Built for peak performance, it boasts 4K resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and an ultra-fast 0.03ms GTG response time, offering breathtaking visuals and seamless gameplay for both cinematic RPGs and fast-paced action games.

     Ready For the Future

    All of them feature G-SYNC Compatible technology, ensuring a smoother and more immersive gaming experience by eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. This delivers fluid, synchronized visuals that enhance gameplay across various genres. Designed with the future in mind, they are fully compatible with future hardware, providing gamers with cutting-edge display performance that keeps pace with evolving technological advancements. Additionally, three models are designed with future advancements in mind, featuring DisplayPort 2.1a (UHBR20), which enhances the DisplayPort standard by improving connection stability and quality without compromising performance. This standard supports future hardware by increasing single-channel transmission bandwidth from 8.1Gbps (HBR3) to 20Gbps (UHBR20), achieving a total bandwidth of 80Gbps—2.5 times that of DisplayPort 1.4a (HBR3). Thanks to the significantly larger bandwidth of DisplayPort 2.1a (UHBR20), it supports non-DSC 4K at 240Hz for DSR and DLDSR. DisplayPort 2.1a (UHBR20) enables gamers to experience native, lossless 4K visuals at 240Hz, delivering a faster and more responsive gaming experience.

    Exquisite Details with Mini LED Technology

    The MPG 274URDFW E16M features Mini LED 1152-zone backlight technology, delivering precise control over light and shadow for vibrant contrast and stunning detail. With deeper blacks, higher brightness, and minimized light bloom, this monitor excels in both fast-paced action and cinematic visuals.

    The dual-mode allows users to select the resolution and refresh rate based on their game, offering seamless switching between ‘4K UHD (3840 x 2160) @160 Hz’ and ‘1080p FHD (1920 x 1080) @320 Hz’. In 4K 160 Hz Mode, the monitor delivers high resolution, providing an immersive gaming experience with smooth visuals and enhanced responsiveness, making every session thrilling. Conversely, in FHD 320 Hz Mode, the display provides ultra-low latency, making it ideal for fast-paced FPS games played by professional gamers.

    Additionally, with MSI AI Dual Mode, the monitor intelligently detects your current resolution and refresh rate, automatically adjusting to the optimal refresh rate when switching resolutions. Furthermore, gamers can choose whether to enable AI Dual Mode in the AI Menu through MSI exclusive Gaming Intelligence software for specific applications, providing a smoother and more tailored experience. The one-click switch button simplifies mode switching, offering a user-friendly way to quickly adapt to different gaming or productivity needs.

    AI Navigator: Elevating Gaming with Smart Optimization

    Introduces MSI exclusive AI Navigator, a powerful AI-driven feature designed to revolutionize the gaming experience. By intelligently analyzing and optimizing gaming setups, AI Navigator ensures that every gamer enjoys maximum performance, convenience, and an overall smoother experience. This innovative tool leverages the latest AI technology to create personalized gaming environments that adapt to each player’s unique preferences and needs.

    One of the standout features of AI Navigator is the AI Menu, which helps gamers easily adjust game settings for specific applications through MSI exclusive Gaming Intelligence software. Whether playing fast-paced shooters, detailed role-playing games, or strategy titles, the AI Menu allows for pre-customized settings, enabling gamers to fine-tune monitor profile, refresh rates, AI Dual Mode settings, and other key parameters with ease. This ensures an optimized and smooth gaming experience. With its smart, user-friendly interface, AI Navigator provides seamless control, allowing players to instantly apply their personalized settings and dive right into the game without the need for manual adjustments.

    By embracing AI to enhance both performance and user convenience, AI Navigator is a game-changing tool that caters to both casual gamers and competitive gamers, offering a more intelligent, customized, and immersive gaming experience.

    MSI is set to unveil an exciting lineup of new products and features at CES 2025. But that’s not all—MSI has even more innovations in store.

  • SUNWAY REIT COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF SUNWAY KLUANG MALL IN JOHOR

    Sunway REIT Management Sdn. Bhd., the Manager of Sunway Real Estate Investment Trust (“Sunway REIT”), is pleased to announce that Sunway REIT has, on 30 December 2024, successfully completed the acquisition of Sunway Kluang Mall (formerly known as Kluang Mall).

    Sunway Kluang Mall is located in the heart of Johor, making it a strategic town connecting to major towns such as Johor Bahru, Muar, and Batu Pahat. It provides excellent connectivity to other parts of Peninsular Malaysia through major highways and railways. With a population of more than 320,000 and a potential of approximately 1 million additional population in central Johor, the Kluang district serves as a preferred retail and lifestyle destination in the region.

    Sunway Kluang Mall is presently 99% occupied, with over 130 tenants. The retail mall offers a diverse array of retail offerings, including international and homegrown brands, food and beverage (F&B) outlets, as well as entertainment and lifestyle services. Anchored by Pacific Hypermarket & Department Store, the mall’s extensive offerings such as health and beauty services, cinema and bowling centre enhance the overall retail experience.

    Sunway Kluang Mall is expected to be yield-accretive to Sunway REIT’s portfolio with an estimated initial Net Property Income (“NPI”) yield of 7%.

    Clement Chen, the Chief Executive Officer of Sunway REIT Management Sdn. Bhd., commented, “We are pleased to end the year with the completion of another acquisition. This fortifies Sunway REIT’s portfolio as one of the leading REIT in Malaysia. We strategically expanded our presence in Johor, which is a high-growth state and magnet for investment.”

    He added, “Building on Sunway’s strong brand and proven track record in retail management, we see opportunities to further enhance the mall through tenancy optimisation, proactive management, and asset enhancement initiatives (AEI) that greatly increases the property’s growth potential.”

  • Smartphone users should be aware of the threats posed by malicious NFC tags

    The festive shopping season is well underway. Whereas once cash was king, now more shoppers than ever use their mobile phone’s electronic wallet as a contactless payment system when buying items, replacing credit cards or electronic ticket smart cards.

    Smartphones increasingly rely on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for convenience and connectivity, but cybersecurity experts warn about a rising threat: NFC tag tampering. This tactic, often overlooked, can expose users to phishing attacks, malware, and data theft with a simple tap of their phone.

    “NFC technology is incredibly convenient, but it’s also a vector for malicious activity if users aren’t cautious,” warns Marc Rivero, Lead Security Researcher at Kaspersky. “Innocent-looking tags in public spaces can be reprogrammed or replaced to carry out harmful actions. As the adoption of NFC continues to grow in areas like payments, public transport, and marketing, we anticipate that malicious actors will become increasingly sophisticated in their tactics. In the next few years, NFC-related attacks could potentially target thousands of users globally, particularly in urban areas where NFC usage is widespread. Awareness and proactive measures are key to mitigating these risks.”

    How NFC tag tampering works

    NFC tags are widely used in marketing campaigns, public transport systems, and smart home setups to enable quick, touch-free interactions. However, this same convenience makes them susceptible to tampering by malicious actors.

    One method involves reprogramming legitimate NFC tags. These tags, when left unlocked, can be altered to redirect users to phishing sites, initiate unintended actions on their devices, or even deliver harmful software payloads. Another method is the physical replacement of original NFC tags. For example, attackers might swap out a genuine tag on a public poster or kiosk, in high-traffic areas like transportation hubs, cafes, or retail stores, with one that triggers harmful behaviors.

    The dangers of malicious NFC tags

    The consequences of interacting with a malicious NFC tag can be severe. Phishing attacks are among the most common outcomes, where users are redirected to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information or login credentials. It’s possible that vulnerabilities in a smartphone’s NFC reader can be exploited to execute harmful code, compromising the device’s security. Malicious NFC tags can also prompt users to download apps or files containing malware, which may steal data, track activity, or damage the device. The seemingly small act of scanning a tampered NFC tag can thus lead to significant financial and privacy repercussions.

    Protect yourself against NFC tag tampering

    To stay safe, users are encouraged to adopt these simple but effective measures:

    1. Inspect NFC tags. Avoid scanning tags in untrusted or suspicious locations and look for signs of tampering.
    2. Verify actions. Always carefully explore the URL or action triggered by a tag before proceeding.
    3. Disable automatic actions. Configure your smartphone to require confirmation before executing NFC-related commands. Install a reliable security solution on the device to reduce the risks.
    4. Stay updated. Ensure your smartphone’s software is up to date to protect against known vulnerabilities.

    Advice for businesses

    Organizations using NFC technology should take proactive steps to secure their systems and protect their users:
    • Use locked or “read-only” NFC tags to prevent tampering.
    • Regularly inspect their tags in public spaces for alterations.
    • Educate customers and employees about safe NFC practices.