Inovatif

Category: Enterprise

  • RAM: Malaysian banks on steady footing despite external pressures

    RAM Ratings maintains a stable outlook on the Malaysian banking sector in conjunction with the release of its latest sector commentary, Banking Insight 2025 – Maintaining Momentum.

    While uncertainties from US protectionist measures and ongoing geopolitical tensions could spill over to the domestic economy, it is still too early to assess the full extent of these effects. With the US and China being key trading partners of Malaysia (approximately 14% of Malaysia’s total value-added production), the retaliatory tariff contest may dampen the positive trade momentum and Malaysia’s growth trajectory.

    “Despite these external challenges, we anticipate banks’ credit profiles to hold steady. Banks are also entering the year in strong shape, with still-solid capital buffers and asset quality at its most robust ever,” said Wong Yin Ching, RAM’s Co-head of Financial Institution Ratings.

    Key expectations:

    • Loan growth to hold steady at 5.5% in 2025. Household loans may ease slightly but will likely be the main driver of loan growth, while business loans increase from infrastructure projects and investments.
    • Capital reverting to pre-pandemic levels. The industry’s common equity tier-1 capital ratio declined to 14.3% as at end-2024 (2020-2023 average: 15.3%; end-2019: 14.6%), although still robust. Banks are cautiously raising dividends, with most estimating the impact of new Basel III reforms to be manageable.
    • GIL ratio to remain stable at 1.4% this year. The system’s gross impaired loan (GIL) ratio hit a historic low of 1.44% as at end-2024. Prudent underwriting and potential write-offs will help sustain the GIL ratio amid new challenges.
    • Funding and liquidity profiles to stay sound. As loan growth outpaced deposit growth, the sector’s loans to deposits ratio surpassed 90%. Other metrics like the liquidity coverage ratio and net stable funding ratio were kept healthy.
    • Moderate earnings increase in 2025. While 2024’s non-interest income surge may not repeat, banks are on track for moderate profit growth from stable credit expansion and a low credit cost of around 20 bps.

    RAM’s GDP growth expectation of 4.0%-5.0% for 2025 (2024: 5.1%), though slower, will be driven by domestic demand given favourable labour market conditions and accommodative interest rates.

    Investment activity will gain from progress on multi-year infrastructure projects and greater realisation of record-high levels of approved investments last year, as well as the ongoing rollout of catalytic initiatives under the national master plans. These factors are likely to stimulate business lending. On the retail front, home financing will continue to be a major growth contributor while auto lending is anticipated to normalise in line with the lower total industry volume forecast for 2025. “Beyond these, the overall loan growth trajectory will also inevitably depend on how global external risks and domestic adjustments to fuel subsidies and electricity tariffs unfold,” Wong adds.

    On the asset quality front, the weighted average credit cost ratio of eight selected local banks rated by RAM eased further to 18 bps in 2024 (2023: 23 bps). Banks’ loan loss coverage (with regulatory reserves) is strong, with the average of the eight banks improving to 143% as at end-2024 (end-2023: 134%)
    “Malaysian digital banks are also making a nascent mark on the industry, with all three operational banks ramping up deposit gathering efforts over the past year, driven by high-interest savings accounts,” said Sophia Lee, RAM’s Co-head of Financial Institution Ratings. Digital banks have also recently expanded their services to include lending, strategically focusing on specific customer segments.

    Expectedly, all three digital banks are still far from breaking even, with quarterly trends indicating that losses have yet to peak in view of high set-up costs. “The key hurdle for these banks lies in retaining tech-savvy and price-sensitive customers in a competitive market while managing acquisition costs and scaling up without assuming significant risks. Shareholders have so far demonstrated strong financial support, with all three players receiving additional capital injections in 2024,” Lee adds.

    RAM’s Banking Insight is available for download at www.ram.com.my.

  • Loob brings Tealive to Thailand

    Loob brings Tealive to Thailand

    Fresh from announcing the entry of Tealive into the enormous Indian market three weeks ago, Loob Holding Sdn Bhd (Loob) has revealed plans to open 80 outlets in Thailand over the next decade.

    Founder and CEO Bryan Loo said it has chosen a leading local food and beverage player, Restaurants Development Co. Ltd (RD), to be its Master Franchisee. RD currently operates over 300 Kentucky Fried Chicken outlets in Thailand.

    RD also happens to be a subsidiary of Devyani International Limited (DIL) of India which is the Master Franchisee for Tealive in India.

    In this breakthrough collaboration with DIL and RD, Loob has made India and Thailand the 9th and 10th overseas markets for Tealive, the top regional lifestyle tea brand and home-grown flagship of Loob.
    Loo expressed confidence that RD’s extensive network and industry expertise will provide a strong foundation for Tealive’s growth in Thailand.

    “Tealive, known for always offering more than tea, will introduce its lifestyle tea concept to Thailand, complementing the country’s rich tea culture with additional choices of handcrafted beverages like coffee, premium chocolate and fruit smoothies as well as Tealive’s famous snacks,” he said.

    “Our Thai partner is already present in hundreds of locations across the country, and Tealive will leverage this from the start. Actual store locations are still being finalised and, together, we aim for 80 outlets in 10 years.”

    Reflecting similarly strong confidence in the collaboration, RD CEO Andrew Norton said: “We look forward to work closely with Loob to bring Tealive’s dynamic and contemporary tea experience to Thai consumers. With our deep understanding of the breadth and depth of the local market and Tealive’s innovative product offerings, we believe this partnership will redefine how tea is enjoyed in Thailand.”

    Adding on, Loo said Tealive’s growth approach was centred on its strategic scalability. “Our priority is to adapt and expand efficiently by working closely with our local partner, ensuring that our brand resonates with Thai consumers while maintaining our commitment to quality and innovation.”

    With a strong presence of over 950 outlets in various regions, including Southeast Asia, Mauritius, Canada and soon in the Middle East and India, Tealive is now ready to establish itself in a country with strong local tea culture. Thailand’s vibrant tea market, predominantly shaped by local players, presents an exciting opportunity for Tealive to introduce new and modernised beverage options tailored to evolving consumer tastes.

  • Bengkel Inovasi GLC to catalyse innovation and economic growth

    Bengkel Inovasi GLC to catalyse innovation and economic growth

    The Ministry of Finance (MOF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) and Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle), announces the launch of the Bengkel Inovasi GLC (BIG), a transformative programme aimed at driving innovation across all Government-Linked Companies (GLCs). With a RM15 million allocation under Belanjawan 2025, this initiative represents a strategic step in advancing Malaysia’s economic reform agenda to ‘Raise the Ceiling’ under the GEAR-uP initiative, in alignment with the Ekonomi MADANI framework.

    GEAR-uP is a national initiative that unites Government-Linked Entities to drive growth in key economic sectors, supporting Malaysia’s structural reforms under Ekonomi MADANI. In its first phase, six leading GLICs pledged RM120 billion in domestic direct investments over five years, focusing on High-Growth, High-Value (HGHV) industries such as energy transition, advanced manufacturing, and technology ventures. These investments aim to build new economic ecosystems, enhance nation-building, and uplift both Malaysia’s economic stature and the Rakyat’s quality of life.

    BIG is designed to empower GLCs by fostering collaboration with startups, accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and strengthening Malaysia’s economic competitiveness. By bridging the gap between corporate players and the startup ecosystem, the programme supports the nation’s aspiration to become one of the Top 20 global startup ecosystems by 2030 while generating high-value jobs and sustainable growth.

    YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Minister of Finance II, emphasised the programme’s role in driving economic transformation, “BIG is aimed at cultivating an ecosystem where innovation fuels economic transformation. This is another strategic growth lever that complements ongoing initiatives to catalyse domestic market growth and raise the ceiling under the Ekonomi MADANI framework. By enabling greater synergy between GLCs, investors, and startups, we aim to drive industry leadership and unlock new growth opportunities. This effort, aligned with our GEAR-uP initiative, underscores the Government’s focus on building a future-ready economy.”

    To ensure impactful results, the programme will leverage MOSTI’s National Technology and Innovation Sandbox (NTIS) and Cradle’s extensive startup ecosystem networks to identify and support high-potential innovation projects.

    YBhg. Dato’ Ts. Dr. Hj. Aminuddin Bin Hassim, Secretary General, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), reaffirmed MOSTI’s commitment to fostering innovation, “the BIG programme reflects our unwavering commitment to integrating advanced technologies, fostering entrepreneurial thinking, and creating opportunities for sustainable growth. By bridging the gap between GLCs, startups, and innovation leaders, this programme will unlock transformative solutions to address industry challenges, empower local talent, and drive progress in high-growth, high-value industries. In doing this, we hope to elevate Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem, position the nation as a regional hub for cutting-edge ideas, and contribute meaningfully to the broader Ekonomi MADANI vision.”

    Adopting a Two-Pronged Approach
    The Bengkel Inovasi GLC (BIG) programme will be executed in two phases:

    1. Innovation Partner & GLC Selection – By March 2025, five GLCs will be identified and matched with selected innovation partners, laying the groundwork for impactful collaboration.
    2. BIG Accelerator, which unfolds into two tracks:
      • ‘Venture Client Model’ – Focuses on refining problem statements with GLCs, identifying high-potential startups for a 6-month accelerator programme, and developing Proof of Concept (POC) solutions supported by a 1:1 matching POC convertible grant.
      • ‘Venture Co-Creation’ – Enables GLC teams to incubate new business ventures, fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable value creation. This track includes product development, piloting solutions with business units, and securing seed investments from GLCs, GLICs, and Venture Capitalists (VCs).

    The programme provides access to mentorship, funding, and technical expertise, equipping GLCs with the necessary tools to become regional innovation leaders. It is expected to spur growth in critical sectors, including energy, transportation and logistics, financial services, property, and plantations.

    Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group CEO, Cradle, highlighted the programme’s role in fostering collaboration between startups and corporate Malaysia, “Cradle is proud to lead this pivotal programme in collaboration with MOF and MOSTI, marking a transformative step in Malaysia’s GLC innovation landscape. BIG is designed to foster meaningful collaboration between corporate Malaysia and the startup ecosystem, driving the adoption of groundbreaking technologies and creating new opportunities for economic growth. This initiative will be a key enabler as we aim to create an inclusive, globally competitive, and sustainable ecosystem in line with our vision to grow and strengthen Malaysia’s startup ecosystem.”

  • Iskandar Investment Berhad launches EduCity Sports Complex 2.0

    Iskandar Investment Berhad launches EduCity Sports Complex 2.0

    Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) officially launches the EduCity Sports Complex (ESC) 2.0, marking a new chapter in sports and entertainment in Johor. The revamped complex is set to become a premier destination for athletes, event organisers, and the local community, offering world-class sports and entertainment facilities.

    The operations of ESC will now be managed by 36Five X, a renowned experiential marketing and event management agency specialising in venue commercialisation. The partnership with 36Five X is aimed at maximising ESC’s usage and commercial potential, ensuring that it thrives as a vibrant hub for sports excellence and community engagement. With over 35 years of combined experience in marketing, event organisation, and venue management, 36Five X brings strategic expertise to ESC. Their mission is to enhance the facility’s offerings while ensuring its financial sustainability and contribution to Johor’s economic and tourism sectors.

    Haris Hardi Zakaria, Chief Investment Officer of IIB stated, “This collaboration is a strategic initiative by IIB to leverage expert knowledge in transforming ESC into a vibrant sports and entertainment hub, boosting community engagement and economic growth. With 36Five X’s established expertise and IIB’s focus on community-oriented development, ESC is poised to enhance the sports and entertainment scene while significantly supporting Johor’s tourism and local economy. We are thrilled to welcome 36Five X’s leadership in taking ESC to new heights. Their expertise will undoubtedly enrich the sports and entertainment landscape in our region.”

    With a renewed vision and strategic direction, ESC 2.0 aims to attract over 100,000 visitors this year alone, driven by a robust calendar of events. The anticipated increase in visitors is expected to generate approximately RM1 billion in economic impact for Johor’s tourism sector, alongside creating significant job opportunities and supporting local businesses.

    Mizal Ghazali, Co-Founder and Director of 36Five X, added, “It’s an honour to spearhead the next chapter of ESC. We are committed to not only enhancing the facility’s offerings but also ensuring it plays a pivotal role in community and regional development.”

    Among the key initiatives introduced at ESC 2.0 is the International Pickleball League (IPBL), which will take place from 12th April to 4th May 2025, positioning ESC as a premier venue for competitive pickleball in the region. Additionally, the D’Straits Duathlon, scheduled for September 2025, aims to attract endurance athletes from across the region, reinforcing Iskandar Puteri as a destination for sports tourism.

    ESC also launched the ESC Arena+ Programme, designed to nurture young talent and promote physical activity among children under 12. The programme offers structured classes in Badminton, Football, Kids Athletics, Pickleball, and Netball, conducted by certified coaches. In collaboration with the Johor Badminton Association, ESC will provide at least eight badminton classes monthly at the Indoor Arena, ensuring accessibility to sports for all families.

    Haris Hardi Zakaria further emphasised, “The launch of ESC 2.0 is a testament to IIB’s commitment to developing a sustainable and inclusive metropolis. Our collaboration with 36Five X reflects our vision to create a world-class sports and entertainment hub that enhances the quality of life in Johor while driving economic progress.”

    As ESC embarks on this new era, it invites the community, businesses, and stakeholders to explore the extensive opportunities available at the complex. For more details on upcoming events and initiatives, visit www.educitysportscomplex.my.

  • 38th ASEAN Exchanges CEOs Meeting: accelerating efforts on product and ESG development

    38th ASEAN Exchanges CEOs Meeting: accelerating efforts on product and ESG development

    The Philippine Stock Exchange, Inc. (PSE) hosted the 38th ASEAN Exchanges CEOs Meeting which focused on priority initiatives to further showcase the region’s unique investment qualities and create a unified ecosystem for sustainability solutions among listed companies and capital market stakeholders.

    Promoting the ASEAN capital market, the group discussed activities that will continue to generate interest in investment products offered by the ASEAN Exchanges.

    Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in November 2024 to collaborate on offering Depositary Receipts (DRs) on their respective exchanges, the ASEAN Exchanges discussed the performance of the ongoing DR collaboration between Singapore Exchange (SGX Group) and The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and the steady progress of DR development in the other ASEAN markets. Since the launch of their DR programme in 2023, SGX Group and SET have listed a combined total of 17 DRs and have more than doubled the AUM of these DRs in the past one year. The initiative has also generated additional trading volumes for both exchanges, adding to liquidity in the underlying market.

    Given the encouraging performance of Thai and Singapore DRs, the rest of the ASEAN Exchanges have been actively working on regulations towards introducing DRs in their respective markets. Bursa Malaysia (BM), Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), PSE, and Vietnam Exchange (VNX) are in various stages of regulatory framework development and stakeholder engagement in line with the DR MOU’s goal to enhance investment opportunities by way of cross-border products.

    The ASEAN Exchanges also remained steadfast in their joint promotion efforts by maximizing the use of the ASEAN Exchanges common website and planning marketing events with key market participants. The website content development strategy has expanded the website’s reach to institutional investors, which resulted in doubling visitor activity on the site. The exchange leaders also plan to capitalize on the momentum of previous roadshows in New York, USA and Melbourne, Australia by potentially hosting the next ASEAN-themed roadshow in Hong Kong in the second half of the year.

    On the sustainability front, following the November 2024 announcement, the ASEAN-Interconnected Sustainability Ecosystem (ASEAN-ISE) Participating Exchanges issued a Request for Information (RFI) in February 2025, receiving strong industry interest. A joint briefing on the RFI by the ASEAN Exchanges last week saw participation from more than 120 representatives from 35 organizations, which included solution providers, credit bureaus, technology firms, information vendors, and consultants.

    The RFI seeks market insights to develop a unified ASEAN regional ecosystem which includes:
    1. Centralised Sustainability Data Infrastructure – Establish and harmonise a centralised yet inter-operable data infrastructure, aligning with national regulatory frameworks while ensuring seamless integration.
    2. Digital Marketplace for Technology-based Sustainability Solutions – An open platform for technology-driven sustainability solutions to showcase their offerings, enabling over 4,000 public listed companies (PLCs) and their millions of suppliers to access plug-and-play or modular products, enhance reporting processes, and connect with solution providers across the region.

    Submissions to the RFI close on 31 March 2025, 5:00 pm, GMT+8, and interested parties can respond to all or selected sections as applicable, either individually or as part of a consortium. For more information or to express interest, please contact isb@bursamalaysia.com.

  • De Beers Group confirms diamond partnership for the next generation

    De Beers Group confirms diamond partnership for the next generation

    The Government of the Republic of Botswana (the “Government of Botswana”) and De Beers Group (“De Beers”) announce new agreements for a 10-year Sales Agreement (further extendable by five years) and a 25-year extension of the Mining Licences (from 2029 through to 2054) for the 50:50 Debswana mining joint venture.

    Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy for Botswana, said, “We are proud to announce the signing of this landmark new agreement, which will underpin the success of our diamond industry as we enter an exciting new phase of Botswana’s sustainable economic development. We hope that these agreements will bring some level of stability and rebuild market confidence in the diamond industry. We are looking forward to our renewed partnership with De Beers; together we will drive development through diamonds and build a brighter future for Batswana.”

    Al Cook, Chief Executive Officer of De Beers Group, said: “These are groundbreaking agreements. The half-century partnership between the Government of Botswana and De Beers is considered the greatest public-private partnership in the world. Now we are both extending and improving it. For De Beers, it is a privilege to secure our ongoing participation in the world’s greatest diamond resources for decades to come. I am also extremely proud that through the Diamonds for Development Fund, we can further transform opportunities for the people of the world’s leading diamond country.”

    In summary, the formal agreements represent:

    • A 25-year extension of the Debswana mining licences from August 2029 to July 2054. This will enable the Debswana joint venture to deliver long-term value from its existing mining assets and mine life extension projects beyond the current mining licence period. Mine life extension projects include Jwaneng Cut-9, Jwaneng Underground and Orapa Cut-3.
    • A renewed 10-year Sales Agreement for Debswana’s rough diamond production, with a further five-year extension period where certain criteria are met. Under the renewed Sales Agreement, the Government of Botswana’s rough diamond sales company, Okavango Diamond Company (“ODC”), will sell 30% and De Beers will sell 70% of Debswana’s production for the first five years; for the subsequent five years ODC will sell 40% and De Beers will sell 60% of Debswana’s production; and both parties will sell a 50% share for the five-year extension period. As part of this arrangement, De Beers and ODC have also both committed to supply diamonds for beneficiation in Botswana in line with their share of Debswana supply.

    In addition, a transformational package of commitments focused on supporting Botswana’s economic development objectives and advancement of the diamond industry has been agreed, including:

    • The creation of the Diamonds for Development Fund to support economic growth, diversification and jobs in Botswana in line with Botswana’s Vision 2036 and National Development Plan. De Beers has committed to an upfront investment of BWP 1 billion (c. $75 million) and further annual contributions from its dividends from Debswana, based on Debswana’s performance.
    • A package of initiatives to be undertaken by De Beers designed to enhance local beneficiation of diamonds and increase participation of the people of Botswana in the diamond industry. These include investment in a diamond jewellery manufacturing facility, establishment of a De Beers Institute of Diamonds grading laboratory and starting up a diamond vocational training institute in collaboration with industry partners.
    • Co-investment by the Government of Botswana and De Beers in marketing initiatives to boost diamond demand. The marketing investments will be for category and other marketing programmes, agreed annually, aimed at stimulating rough diamond sales, protecting the ethical integrity of diamonds, and to maintain and build consumer confidence in the product. De Beers and the Government of Botswana have committed to co-invest over the life of the Sales Agreement and in proportion to their relative shares of Debswana supply.
  • Meta Bright drives Malaysia’s energy transition with BESS, EV charging and EE solutions

    Meta Bright drives Malaysia’s energy transition with BESS, EV charging and EE solutions

    Meta Bright Group Berhad (“Meta Bright” or “the Group”) is expanding its presence in the renewable energy sector through a strategic joint venture to provide Total Energy Solutions.

    In conjunction with the said expansion, the Group has partnered with United Success Holding Pte. Ltd. and Yang Lei to establish Meta Bright Solutions Sdn. Bhd. (“JVC”) to develop and operate battery energy storage systems (BESS), EV charging infrastructure and energy efficiency solutions (EE) in Malaysia and potentially across Southeast Asia.

    Meta Bright Energy Sdn. Bhd. (“MB Energy”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meta Bright Group Berhad will hold a 55% controlling stake in JVC, with United Success and Yang Lei owning 10% and 35%, respectively.
    This initiative aligns with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which seeks to increase renewable energy’s GDP contribution to RM220 billion by 2050 while reducing carbon emissions in the energy sector by 32%. With the government’s RM300 million allocations under Budget 2025 for renewable energy, Malaysia is accelerating grid modernisation, energy efficiency initiatives, and renewable energy adoption— Meta Bright is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for BESS EV charging infrastructure and EE solutions.

    To strengthen its technological capabilities, JVC has signed an exclusive technical support agreement with YTKJ. YTKJ is backed by Ningbo Urban Construction Investment Holding Co. Ltd., one of China’s state-backed urban infrastructure developers, reinforcing the JV’s strong technological and financial foundation. YTKJ collaborated with Ningbo Joyson Electronic Co. Ltd. (“Joyson Electronic”) to produce and manufacture Battery Energy Storage Systems (“BESS”).

    Joyson Electronic is a publicly listed company on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SHA: 600699) and is a global leader in automotive electronics, safety systems, and smart mobility solutions, with a strong presence in new energy applications. In addition to BESS, Joyson Electronic also produces Electric Vehicle (EV) charging products, further strengthening its role in the sustainable energy ecosystem.

    JVC will actively contribute to the expansion of Malaysia’s EV charging infrastructure, supporting the increasing adoption of electric vehicles nationwide. The company will develop and supply high-speed, smart charging station equipment, ensuring a seamless and energy-efficient charging network. The integration of BESS with charging stations will further optimise energy storage and promote a more sustainable energy ecosystem.

    Derek Phang Kiew Lim, Executive Director of Corporate and Strategic Planning of Meta Bright Group Berhad said, “This joint venture is expected to help contribute the development for Malaysia’s energy landscape. “We are not just building BESS and EV charging infrastructure; we are building a more sustainable and resilient energy future for the nation.”

    “With the rising demand for energy storage and EV charging infrastructure, we see BESS as a crucial enabler of a more stable and efficient energy ecosystem. We aim to develop scalable, high-performance BESS solutions integrated with advanced EV charging stations, positioning Meta Bright at the forefront of Malaysia’s clean energy transition,” Derek added.

  • Tealive partners with Devyani International Limited

    Tealive partners with Devyani International Limited

    Loob Holding Sdn Bhd has signed a master franchise deal with leading Indian Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) operator Devyani International Limited (DIL) to introduce Tealive into India.

    The top regional lifestyle tea brand is now entering one of the world’s largest consumer markets, following its successful penetration of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in October last year. DIL is India’s largest franchisee for Yum! Brands, operating KFC and Pizza Hut outlets, and the exclusive franchisee for Costa Coffee cafes in the country. In addition, DIL has its own home grown brands, including Vaango, a popular South Indian vegetarian food destination, and The Food Street, a food court concept featuring multiple cuisines under one roof. DIL operates more than 2,000 stores across brands in India, Thailand, Nigeria and Nepal.

    Loob Holding founder and CEO Bryan Loo expressed confidence that DIL’s expansive network and F&B expertise would provide a solid foundation for Tealive to grow in India.

    “Together with our partner, Tealive will bring our innovative lifestyle tea culture to the land of chai. Our partner knows the local market well and we’re planning significant presence in India, beginning with outlets in the major cities this year,” he said.

    India presents a huge market potential for lifestyle tea amongst the young population. This gives Tealive a strategic advantage with its strong branding and Southeast Asian appeal. While India’s tea scene is populated by local brands and individual stores, Tealive’s diverse menu and innovative offerings will cater to evolving consumer preferences.

    Mr. Ravi Jaipuria, Non-Executive Chairman, Devyani International Limited, said: “We are delighted to introduce Tealive, a strong Asian brand, into India, known to have a rich tradition of chai culture. Tealive’s diverse lifestyle tea offerings perfectly align with India’s young and evolving consumer, who are increasingly drawn towards newer categories. Together, we are set to redefine and transform tea experience in the vibrant Indian market.”

    Loo emphasised that Tealive would continue its current regional strategy of starting small and scaling up fast with the right market conditions. “With our partners’ local knowledge, industry experience, and extensive reach, we are well-positioned to rapidly expand and promote our unique lifestyle tea culture across India,” he said.

  • UOB launches Green Lane with Invest Johor to fast-track investments into JS-SEZ

    UOB launches Green Lane with Invest Johor to fast-track investments into JS-SEZ

    UOB announces the launch of the Green Lane with Invest Johor which will fast-track investments into the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). This is one of the outcomes arising from the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Invest Johor at the 2024 ASEAN Conference last August.

    Under the agreement with Invest Johor, UOB will undertake the pre-qualification assessment for customers’ applications for Johor’s Super Lane approval, according to the criteria set out by Invest Johor. This will further accelerate the processing turnaround time.

    To further streamline the process, UOB has introduced a Fast Lane Account Opening service for its Singapore customers looking to expand into the JS-SEZ, ensuring a fast and hassle-free experience. The Bank has also established dedicated JS-SEZ Desks in Johor and Singapore to provide swift support on financial solutions, account opening, and market entry to its customers.

    UOB also introduced its first client under the Green Lane, Gold Peak Technology Group (Gold Peak). Mr Michael Lam, Executive Director and Managing Director of Gold Peak officially presented a Letter of Intent (LOI) to Tuan Haji Natazha Hariss, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Johor.

    Present at the ceremony, YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz said, “Since the signing of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), we have witnessed remarkable progress in strengthening cross-border trade and investment opportunities. Our partnership with UOB has gained strong momentum, reinforcing our shared vision of creating a seamless and thriving investment ecosystem within the JS-SEZ. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to turning vision into action.

    “We are also pleased to welcome Gold Peak Technology Group’s investment, which brings advanced manufacturing capabilities, high-quality job opportunities, and sustainable economic growth to Johor. This is yet another milestone that aligns with our commitment to realizing the Maju Johor 2030 vision – transforming Johor into a globally competitive and sustainable economic powerhouse. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to attracting more high-value, future-ready investments that will further cement JS-SEZ’s position as a premier destination for innovation, industry, and sustainable development.”

    UOB will facilitate Gold Peak’s entry into the JS-SEZ, providing market entry advisory, cross-border banking services and financial solutions, as Gold Peak expands in the region. Gold Peak is a global leader in battery technology and energy storage solutions and is listed on the main board of Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Gold Peak’s proposed investment in the JS-SEZ is estimated to be RM670 million (US$150 million), involving the establishment of a state-of-the-art manufacturing and a research and development facility producing batteries with next-generation technologies.

    Gold Peak’s future facility will focus on producing next-generation battery technologies and is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy storage solutions, mainly for data centres, across Southeast Asia. The company’s proposed investment is expected to create approximately 150 to 180 employment opportunities, contributing to the region’s socio-economic development, driving innovation and providing new prospects for local talent. The investment also falls within one of the 11 key sectors the SEZ is promoting.

  • Maybank Asset Management launches first in-house Shariah Global Tech Fund to tap AI megatrends

    Maybank Asset Management launches first in-house Shariah Global Tech Fund to tap AI megatrends

    Maybank Asset Management Sdn Bhd (“MAM Malaysia”) is proud to introduce the Maybank Global Technology-I Fund (“the Fund”), its second in-house global fund and a key addition to its suite of Shariah-compliant investment solutions. Designed for investors seeking long-term capital growth, the Fund aims to offer investors access to high-growth technology companies that are shaping the future of the global economy while adhering to Shariah principles.

    Hisham Hamzah, CEO of MAM commented, “The launch of the Fund comes at a pivotal time as financial markets navigate heightened volatility. Following President Donald Trump’s return to office, the U.S. has imposed significant tariffs on key trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China, introducing renewed uncertainty in the global economy. Amid these challenges, investors seek resilient investment solutions, and the Fund is designed to meet this need.”

    He added, “Concurrently, China’s technological advancements are reshaping the competitive landscape. Notably, a Chinese startup has released a low-cost, high-performance AI model, R1, which has garnered significant attention and is seen as a major development in the AI industry. Keeping up with these rapidly evolving market developments can be complex for investors, requiring the expertise of professional fund managers to identify opportunities and mitigate risks. the Fund offers a unique opportunity to participate in the future of innovation while benefiting from professional investment management.”

    As an equity fund, the Maybank Global Technology-I Fund invests primarily in a diversified portfolio of Shariah-compliant equities and equity-related securities of technology-driven companies worldwide. By maintaining at least 75% of its net asset value (NAV) in global Shariah-compliant technology-related equities, the Fund aims to provide investors with meaningful exposure to cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital payments, and cloud computing.

    Denominated in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) as the base currency, the Fund is available in both retail (MYR Class) and institutional (MYR Institutional Class) offerings, with a minimum investment of RM1,000 and RM250,000, respectively.

    Investors are advised to read and understand the contents of the Fund’s Product Highlights Sheet and Prospectus, dated 6 February 2025, before making any investment decisions.

    The Maybank Global Technology-I Fund is now available on Maybank2U and Maybank branches nationwide. To learn more about the Fund, investors can visit www.maybank-am.com.my.