Inovatif

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  • PCCW Global and Druid Technology to deliver one-stop IoT solutions

    PCCW Global and Druid Technology to deliver one-stop IoT solutions

    PCCW Global, the international telecommunications service provider under HKT, and Druid Technology Co., Ltd. (Druid Technology), a Chinese mainland provider of intelligent IoT solutions, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong. Under the MoU, the two companies plan to jointly deliver one-stop IoT solutions that combine satellite and hybrid connectivity in the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Macao, and Belt and Road regions.

    As a provider of intelligent IoT terminals and solutions, Druid Technology will leverage its expertise in device design, multi-network adaptation, data processing and platform integration, together with PCCW Global’s worldwide network services including roaming and cellular IoT to deliver one-stop, ready-to-deploy IoT solutions based on satellite and hybrid (satellite and cellular) connectivity. These solutions will support IoT applications such as remote tracking and monitoring for sectors including transportation, logistics, livestock farming and environmental management in remote locations and areas beyond the reach of conventional terrestrial networks.

    Frederick Chui, CEO of PCCW Global, said: “PCCW Global is committed to delivering reliable connectivity and technology solutions through our extensive global network infrastructure. We are delighted to collaborate with Druid Technology and combine its expertise in intelligent IoT solutions with our own capabilities to strengthen our offering of one-stop IoT solutions for enterprise customers in both public and private sectors. Through this collaboration, we look forward to advancing the adoption of satellite and hybrid IoT solutions across Belt and Road markets, helping to meet the growing demand for reliable IoT connectivity and end-to-end solutions in remote and cross-border environments.”

    Li Guozheng, Founder and CEO of Druid Technology, said: “We are pleased to become an integrated solutions provider for PCCW Global. By combining Druid Technology’s full-stack capabilities in intelligent IoT terminals, multi-system integration and physical world AI with PCCW Global’s leading global network infrastructure, we will provide customers with more comprehensive one-stop IoT solutions. We believe this collaboration will enable customers to deploy intelligent IoT applications more quickly and reliably, even in remote locations and other challenging environments.”

    The solutions will cover terminal devices, network connectivity, data management and technical support. Leveraging its extensive global operational experience, PCCW Global will help accelerate the deployment of the solution across Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Macao, the Belt and Road regions and global markets.

     

  • Banks’ asset quality stays robust amid headwinds

    Malaysian banks’ asset quality remains resilient despite a slight deterioration amid heightened uncertainties arising from the Middle East conflict and ongoing US trade tensions. The banking system’s gross impaired loan (GIL) ratio edged up to 1.43% as at end-June 2026 (end-December 2025: 1.37%). Nevertheless, overall credit fundamentals remain sound, supported by healthy loss-absorption buffers and banks’ proactive credit risk management. RAM expects the GIL ratio to remain broadly stable at around 1.4% by end-2026.

    “While we are seeing higher delinquencies in certain loan segments, overall asset quality remains robust by historical standards. Encouragingly, most banks have not reported any material increase in requests for repayment assistance. Favourable labour market conditions, as reflected in the low unemployment rate of 3%, will help mitigate further deterioration in asset quality,” said Wong Yin Ching, RAM Ratings’ Senior Vice President of Financial Institution Ratings. RAM remains watchful of SMEs and lower-income borrowers, given their greater vulnerability to an economic downturn.

    The annualised average credit cost ratio of eight selected local banks stayed largely stable at 18 bps in 2Q 2026 (1Q 2026: 19 bps). Most banks continue to maintain management overlays, with several institutions increasing provisions during the quarter in view of macroeconomic uncertainties. Meanwhile, the average GIL coverage ratio (including regulatory reserves) remained healthy at 139%, well above the pre-pandemic level of 107% as at end-2019.

    Banking sector loan growth strengthened to 5.5% y-o-y in 1H 2026 (2025: 4.8%), driven primarily by business loans (6.1%), while household lending moderated to 5.0%. Growth in business financing was largely attributable to corporate borrowers rather than SMEs. Meanwhile, growth in residential mortgages – the largest subsegment of household loans – continued to decelerate over the past two to three years, easing to 5.4% in 1H 2026 (2025: 5.9%; 2024: 6.9%).

    Net interest margins contracted by 3 bps q-o-q to 2.01%, reflecting intense competition for deposits and loans, and are expected to remain under pressure for the rest of the year. Nevertheless, stronger non-interest income and improved cost efficiency more than offset margin compression, lifting the average pre-tax return on assets of eight selected local banks to 1.39% in 2Q 2026 (1Q 2026: 1.33%).

    The banking system’s common equity tier-1 ratio declined to 13.9% as at end-June 2026 (end-June 2025: 14.7%), primarily due to stronger loan growth, lower securities valuations and higher dividend distributions. Capitalisation, however, remains healthy and provides ample loss-absorption capacity. In addition, banks adopting the Standardised Approach for credit risk are anticipated to benefit from capital savings following the implementation of the Basel reforms on 1 July 2026.

    The eight selected banks in RAM’s roundup are AFFIN Bank Berhad, Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad, AMMB Holdings Berhad, CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, Hong Leong Bank Berhad, Malayan Banking Berhad, Public Bank Berhad and RHB Bank Berhad.

  • ROOMIE launches Malaysia’s first integrated payment gateway for hotels

    ROOMIE launches Malaysia’s first integrated payment gateway for hotels

    ROOMIE has launched Malaysia’s first integrated payment gateway built specifically for the hotel and tourism industry. The solution lets hotel guests pay directly for services from room bookings, room service, laundry and on-demand entertainment and is processed without leaving their preferred chat or booking channel. It is now live across the app for key travelers from: China, India, Korea, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.

    Built directly into the guest journey, the new gateway reduces payment friction, lifts transaction conversion for in-hotel payments by 40%, compared to industry cart abandonment at 80%. The latest payment gateway allows all travellers to engage in the language they are comfortable in, as well as the payment method they are familiar with.

    “This removes the hassle of currency conversion and letting guests pay through the platforms they already use. Our goal is to help hotels improve transaction conversion, reduce abandoned orders, and unlock more opportunities for upselling,” said CS Goh, Chief Executive Officer of ROOMIE.

    ROOMIE’s payment gateway supports regional e-wallets and payment methods familiar to tourists including Alipay for China and Southeast Asia, UPI for India, TrueMoney and Line Pay for Thailand, and GCash for the Philippines.

    The launch comes as China and India remain key source markets for Malaysia’s tourism industry. China recorded 1.4 million visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2026. India delivered more than 1.5 million visitors in 2025, ranking among the country’s top five international source markets, with a target of 2.1 million visitors this 2026.

    Beyond payments, ROOMIE enables hotels to manage bookings, payments and guest interactions directly through social media. This reduces the friction of traditional credit card checkout and cutting cart abandonment.

    Guests can pay for snacks, beverages and on-demand movies without leaving the chat. Orders are only processed once payment is completed. This helps hotels minimise cancellations and no-shows.

    ROOMIE’s platform also supports mobile check-in and check-out, consolidating guest communications across WhatsApp, Facebook and hotel CRMs into a single interface. It secures every chat, profile and payment with institutional-grade compliance. This helps hotels maintain consistent service across shift changes.

    “Every additional step between a guest deciding to purchase and completing that purchase creates hassle and frustration that can lead to a failed transaction,” said June Yap, Vice President, Business Development & Strategic Partnership at ROOMIE.

    “By simplifying the process, hotels can make it easier for guests to say yes to the services they want, while giving operators a more effective way to generate additional revenue,” Yap further added.
    From a decade of experience in providing hospitality solutions and services for the hotel industry across 100 hotels across Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, ROOMIE has delivered the following results:

    • Guest Engagement: Engaged 5.8 million guests on behalf of hotels and gained invaluable experience in guests’ engagement
    • Automation: has processed and automated 3.6 million orders and requests from guests for F&B, housekeeping, maintenance, reservation and sales
    • AI: Invested in training and building the skills, knowledge and agentic capabilities of ROOMIE AI for Hotels
    • Reduced booking abandonment: ROOMIE chat-based booking process sees average abandonment of less than 56% compared to 84% in hotel booking sites
    • Efficient Mobile Check In: City Business hotel solved the check-in rush at the lobby with more than 30% mobile check-in conversion.
    • Positive Ratings: 4 stars business hotels see 101% number of online reviews in the 6 months period since using ROOMIE
    • Positive Ratings:Family resort hotel sees 76% increase in positive guest reviews and direct booking with shared discount vouchers within 1 months of strategy execution

    ROOMIE has also achieved an ISO security certification for data protection and information security, addressing hotel concerns around compliance with Malaysia’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) and the safeguarding of guest data.

    ROOMIE aims to double its current base of 100 hotel clients across Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam over the next 12 months.
    The company has recently signed a contract with a hotel group covering approximately 1,800 rooms, one of the largest single room volumes transacted by a hotel technology provider in Malaysia, well above the industry-typical 100- to 200-room deal.

    Some of ROOMIE’s hotel clientele includes brands such as: St. Giles, Wyndham, Hard Rock, Frasers & Resorts World.

  • Malaysia’s RM35 billion bet on becoming a global meetings hub

    Malaysia’s RM35 billion bet on becoming a global meetings hub

    The latest International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) GlobeWatch Country and City Rankings 2025 has ranked Malaysia 32 out of 142 ICCA-qualified destinations globally, while Kuala Lumpur ranked 29th worldwide with 73 qualifying meetings in a year when competition among Asian meetings destinations intensified.

    Robert Hatton-Jones, Deputy General Manager of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, sees the ranking as more than a statistic. “The ICCA rankings are an important endorsement of Malaysia’s ability to deliver world-class international association meetings that create lasting value beyond the event itself. Every congress brings together global experts, researchers, policymakers and industry leaders, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and economic growth,” said Robert.

    Malaysia’s business events sector generated an estimated RM4.07 billion in economic impact from 393 business events in 2025, according to the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB). That momentum has continued into 2026: at Malaysia Business Events Week 2026 in August, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said MyCEB spearheaded 194 business events nationwide in the first half of the year, attracting more than 341,000 delegates and generating an estimated RM 1.81 billion in economic impact. As of 30 June, MyCEB has also secured 416 international business events for the 2026-2030 period, projected to bring in RM8.27 billion and lift the sector’s cumulative economic impact to an estimated RM 34.97 billion by 2030.

    Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre alone accounted for a significant share of the 2025 total, welcoming 756,721 delegates, including 59,013 international delegates, and generating an estimated RM1.5 billion in economic impact for Malaysia.

  • AEON Bank enables Google Pay for Debit Card-i Android users

    AEON Bank, Malaysia’s first digital Islamic bank has enabled Google Pay for the AEON Bank Visa Debit Card-i, offering Android users greater convenience for swift, safe and contactless payments.

    Google Pay marks the latest addition to AEON Bank’s growing digital banking capabilities together with other robust features on its digital banking app, such as Neko Sensei, Neko Missions, AEON Bank Visa Debit Card-i, Savings Pot, DuitNow QR, JomPAY, Zakat and Takaful. Making each tap more rewarding, AEON Bank has also introduced a cashback campaign to encourage customers to discover the convenience of mobile payments and make Google Pay part of their everyday transactions.

    From 28th August to 30th September 2026, customers can enjoy cashback rewards by following a few simple steps*:

    • Connect your AEON Bank Visa Debit Card-i with Google Wallet on your Android device
    • Pay with Google Pay when shopping in-store or online
    • Enjoy 3% cashback on eligible purchases, up to RM30 per customer
    • Cashback will be credited upon settlement

    *Terms and conditions apply.

    Since May 2024, AEON Bank has continued to grow its suite of Shariah-compliant products and services, with a focus on creating a digital banking experience that is more intuitive and engaging for its customers. The integration of Google Pay further advances AEON Bank’s mission in offering secure and frictionless payment solutions that simplify customers’ cashless transaction needs.

    AEON Bank’s cloud native agility and AI optimisation, combined with the strength of its Shariah-compliant ethical banking solutions continue to fuel its commitment towards cultivating a more inclusive financial future for all, while fostering the growth of Malaysia’s digital economy.

     

  • UOB Heartbeat Run 2026 raises RM2.288 million

    UOB Heartbeat Run 2026 raises RM2.288 million

    UOB Malaysia recently raised RM2.288 million through its annual UOB Heartbeat Run 2026. The funds will support four key beneficiaries – SOLS Foundation, PINTAR Foundation, Food Aid Foundation and HOPE Worldwide Malaysia as well as advancing the Bank’s corporate social responsibility initiatives across Malaysia with a focus on arts, children and education.

    Datuk Ng Wei Wei, Chief Executive Officer, UOB Malaysia, said “Now in its 18th year in Malaysia, the UOB Heartbeat Run continues to show what is possible when people come together to make a difference. The generosity and commitment of our people, customers, and partners enable us to support programmes led by our beneficiary partners that address critical community needs, from improving food security to empowering youth with digital education and future-ready skills. As part of the wider UOB Heartbeat movement across ASEAN and beyond, we remain committed to creating meaningful and lasting impact in the communities we serve.”

    In the two months leading up to the UOB Heartbeat Run, a series of charitable activities including food bazaars, charity sales, and fitness classes were held, contributing to the total funds raised. The programme culminated at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, where about 5,000 employees, customers and partners gathered to volunteer, fundraise and participate in the run event.

    The funds raised will support beneficiary-led programmes that help build a more sustainable future through education and improve the quality of life of underserved communities across Malaysia. These include sponsoring 50 underprivileged youths to enrol in the Solar Academy vocational programme through SOLS Foundation, providing home solar systems to off-grid communities and installing solar panels at children’s welfare homes. The funds will also support HOPE Worldwide Malaysia, Food Aid Foundation, PINTAR Foundation and other charitable causes, channelled towards building an inclusive society and supporting the sustainable development of communities through digital education, food security and programmes that promote resilience and mental wellness. The programmes are expected to benefit approximately 6,000 underserved children, youths and their families across Malaysia.

    The UOB Heartbeat Run forms part of UOB’s broader efforts to create long-term social impact for the underserved. Beyond UOB Heartbeat, the Bank continues to invest in programmes that create long-term social impact, particularly in education and digital inclusion. Earlier this year, UOB launched UOB My Digital Space (MDS) in Malaysia. The programme empowers students to engage with technology confidently and responsibly by strengthening their critical thinking and digital literacy skills. As part of a regional initiative expected to reach more than 100,000 students across ASEAN,

    MDS has evolved into a multi-year programme in Malaysia, reinforcing national efforts to promote digital inclusion and prepare the next generation for the digital economy.

  • Bursa Malaysia spotlights leading investor relations practices at inaugural IR Awards 2026

    Bursa Malaysia spotlights leading investor relations practices at inaugural IR Awards 2026

    Bursa Malaysia Berhad (Bursa Malaysia) held the inaugural Bursa Malaysia IR Awards 2026 on 4 September 2026 to recognise excellence in investor relations (IR) and encourage higher standards of transparency, engagement and market communication among public listed companies (PLCs).

    The Awards recognised 32 winners across eight main categories, celebrating PLCs and IR professionals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to investor engagement, market communication and corporate transparency.

    Delivering the keynote address at the Awards, Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican, Secretary General of Treasury, Ministry of Finance Malaysia, said effective investor relations is important in strengthening the quality and competitiveness of Malaysia’s listed companies.

    “By communicating openly and consistently with investors, public listed companies enable better-informed investment decisions and demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability. As we continue enhancing the competitiveness and quality of Malaysia’s listed companies, effective investor engagement will remain an enabler of long-term value creation and sustainable market growth,” he said.

    Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed, Chief Executive Officer of Bursa Malaysia, said, “There is considerable opportunity to strengthen investor relations capabilities across the market. As companies, markets and investor expectations become more sophisticated, effective investor relations goes beyond communicating performance. It helps investors understand how a company is positioned for the future.

    “The Bursa Malaysia IR Awards recognise companies and professionals who are setting a high standard for transparency, engagement and market communication. By spotlighting these practices, we hope to encourage more listed companies to strengthen their investor relations capabilities and help raise standards of investor engagement across the market.”

    Based on Bursa Malaysia’s research, only 32% of listed companies have a dedicated internal IR function, while 17% outsource the function and 51% operate without any formal IR structure. This highlights the opportunity to further strengthen investor relations capabilities and enhance issuer-investor engagement across the market.

    Bursa Malaysia has been building IR capabilities through IR4U, which provides practical guidance and learning opportunities for PLCs. Around 690 listed companies participated in the programme across 2024 and 2025.

    These efforts are complemented by MY Value Up, jointly introduced by the Securities Commission Malaysia and Bursa Malaysia, which encourages companies to strengthen fundamentals while articulating their strategies and priorities more clearly to the market. While the initiative focuses on 88 leading PLCs, its resources and opportunities are available to all listed companies.

    Malayan Banking Bhd was among the top winners, taking Best Company in IR, Best Financial Reporting and Best Large-cap Company in IR for Financial Services. Its President and Group CEO, Dato’ Sri Khairussaleh Ramli, was named Best CEO in IR, while Tenaga Nasional Bhd received Best Sustainability Communications.

    The Bursa Malaysia IR Awards 2026 winners were determined through a market-led evaluation involving local and international investors and analysts, supported by independent verification and Bursa Malaysia’s due diligence review.

  • Chin Hin Group tops out Ayanna Resort Residences, Bukit Jalil

    Chin Hin Group tops out Ayanna Resort Residences, Bukit Jalil

    Chin Hin Group Property (“CHGP”) has officially marked a major milestone in its residential portfolio with the successful topping out of Ayanna Resort Residences in Jalan Mas, Bukit Jalil. The structural completion of the project’s residential towers signals the transition into the final stages of construction, keeping the project firmly on track for handover in Q2 2027.
    Spanning two high-rise towers across 4.9 acres of freehold land—Block A (42 storeys, 333 units) and Block B (44 storeys, 491 units)—Ayanna Resort Residences comprises 824 units designed for modern, multi-generational living.

    The development has achieved a stellar 95% take-up rate prior to reaching its structural peak, reflecting strong market confidence and sustained demand for thoughtfully designed homes. In addition, this award-winning project has also earned the GreenRE Certification in recognition of its energy-efficient, environmentally sustainable design and green building practices, meeting the expectations of today’s sustainability-conscious homebuyers.

    With a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM732.1 million, the project reinforces its position as a standout premium residential offering in the market.

    Reflecting on the milestone, CHGP Executive Director Chang Tze Yoong said, “Reaching the structural topping-out milestone of Ayanna Resort Residences marks a pivotal chapter for Chin Hin Group Property. The overwhelming 95% take-up rate reflects the trust homebuyers have placed in our commitment to quality, innovative layout concepts, and timely delivery.

    “We designed Ayanna Resort Residences with the warmth of Malaysian community living in mind, blending resort-style leisure with sustainable design and nature-inspired landscapes. As we celebrate this topping-out milestone today, we remain firmly committed to delivering a vibrant, sustainable sanctuary that families can proudly call home for generations to come,” Chang added.

    Following the completion of structural works, construction focus now shifts to architectural façade installation, exterior envelope finishing, electrical and mechanical (M&E) fittings, and interior unit fit-outs. In tandem, landscape construction across the 1.3-acre recreational park and interactive stream hub will also commence.
    CHGP remains steadfast in upholding rigorous quality control and safety standards as the project moves steadily toward completion and unit handover in Q2 2027.

  • MEA KL celebrates first year anniversary

    MEA KL celebrates first year anniversary

    Marriott Executive Apartments Kuala Lumpur (MEA KL) marks its first anniversary following its opening on 14 August 2025, reflecting on a year of welcoming guests from Malaysia and around the world while establishing itself as a residential-style base for extended stays in Kuala Lumpur.

    As the first Marriott Executive Apartments in Kuala Lumpur, the 353-room property is also the largest Marriott Executive Apartments in the APEC region. Over its first year, 75% of its guests have originated from the Asia Pacific region, reflecting its appeal among travellers seeking the flexibility and comforts of home while staying in the city.

    Since opening its doors, the property has welcomed a diverse range of guests, from business and long-stay travellers to leisure guests and families. Its spacious apartments feature fully equipped kitchenettes, in-room laundry facilities and dedicated living areas, giving guests the flexibility to maintain their routines while away from home.

    Marriott Executive Apartments’ extended-stay living concept is designed to offer the comforts of home, complemented by Marriott’s renowned hospitality and services. Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the property also offers convenient access to the city’s key business, lifestyle and leisure destinations, making it well suited to those who want to live, work and explore at their own pace, whether they’re in KL on extended assignments, relocating or visiting for longer city stays.

    “Reaching our first anniversary is a meaningful milestone for the entire Marriott Executive Apartments Kuala Lumpur team,” said Grant Young, General Manager of Marriott Executive Apartments Kuala Lumpur. “Over the past year, we have had the privilege of welcoming guests from Malaysia and around the world, and seeing the property grow into a place where guests can genuinely feel at home has been incredibly rewarding. Our hosts have brought that experience to life through their care, dedication and personalised service. As we enter our second year, we look forward to building on this foundation and welcoming many more guests to Kuala Lumpur.”

    To mark its first anniversary, Marriott Executive Apartments Kuala Lumpur is inviting families to discover the city together with its Discover KL with 1st Anniversary Special, available for stays from 17 July to 31 December 2026. Designed for families looking for a comfortable city escape, the package includes a stay in a spacious apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and separate living and dining areas, daily breakfast for two adults and two children, late check-out until 2:00 PM subject to availability, complimentary access to the Kids Club and swimming pools, and an exclusive Petrosains Family Membership voucher for two adults and up to three children.

    MEA KL was recognised as a Green Hotel Certified 2025, reflecting its commitment to responsible and sustainable hospitality and continued efforts towards building a greener future.

    As it enters its second year, the property will continue to develop its extended-stay, dining and guest experiences. With residential comfort, thoughtful hospitality and personalised service at its core, MEA KL aims to give travellers a welcoming base from which to live, work and experience the city.

  • Pearl Global Business Awards 2026 to celebrate Penang’s leaders, industries and global impact

    Pearl Global Business Awards 2026 to celebrate Penang’s leaders, industries and global impact

    The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) is set to launch the inaugural Pearl Global Business Awards 2026, a prestigious, stateendorsed platform celebrating excellence, leadership and meaningful contributions across the key industries shaping Penang’s economic growth and global reputation. The Pearl Global Business Awards 2026 is an official recognition initiative by the Penang State Government, conceptualised by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and executed by TIN Media.

    The inaugural awards will take place on 14 December 2026, with the venue to be announced soon.

    The awards recognise influential leaders, organisations and changemakers whose contributions demonstrate impact, innovation, sustainability, inclusivity and leadership, while reflecting the ambition and transformation of Penang as a competitive regional and international business destination.

    The 2026 edition holds particular significance as it recognises the growth and transformation of Penang’s key industries over the past decade. It seeks to honour the businesses, institutions and individuals whose vision, resilience and contributions have helped strengthen Penang’s economy, enhance its global competitiveness and shape the state’s continued progress. The Pearl Global Business Awards will serve as a biennial platform to recognise excellence across Penang’s strategic development sectors, while promoting innovation, inclusivity, sustainability and global competitiveness, and positioning Penang as a regional and international hub of leadership and business influence.

    65 Award Titles Across 12 Strategic Sectors

    The inaugural Pearl Global Business Awards 2026 will feature 65 award titles across 12 strategic sectors:

    1. Investment & Trade
    2. Halal & Ethical Industries
    3. Sustainability & Green Innovation
    4. Technology & Innovation
    5. Women Empowerment & Gender Equality
    6. Youth Leadership & Development
    7. Digital Economy & Smart Solutions
    8. Infrastructure & Urban Development
    9. Social Impact & Community Harmony
    10. Leadership & Lifetime Excellence
    11. Hospitality, Tourism & Business Events
    12. Media, Communications & Public Visibility

    By bringing together leaders and stakeholders from business, industry, government, tourism, technology, sustainability, media and the wider community, the awards will provide a platform to celebrate achievements while strengthening connections across Penang’s diverse economic sectors. The initiative also reinforces Penang’s positioning as a state that values innovation, responsible growth, inclusive development, and global engagement. As the inaugural edition, the Pearl Global Business Awards 2026 aims to establish a legacy that can grow with Penang, recognising those who have contributed to the state’s journey while inspiring the next generation of leaders to take Penang forward.