Inovatif

Category: ESG

  • Medini Net Zero Carbon CBD (NZCC) receives 5 Diamonds recognition

    Medini Net Zero Carbon CBD (NZCC) receives 5 Diamonds recognition

    Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) has been awarded with the 5 Diamonds recognition for the highly anticipated Net Zero Carbon Central Business District (NZCC) within Medini Innopolis masterplan, in Iskandar Puteri, Johor at the Low Carbon Cities 2030 Challenge (LCC2030C) awards this week.

    Together with it, IIB received two other diamond recognitions:

    • Medini Net Zero Central Business District (NZCC) – 5 Diamond Recognition
    • Menara IIB (Medini 9) – 5 Diamond Recognition
    • EduCity Complex 1 – 2 Diamond Recognition

    Organised by the Malaysia Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), the awards were presented by YB Tuan Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, during a ceremony held at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara, Kuala Lumpur.

    The LCC2030C Challenge is a national initiative launched in 2019, aimed at accelerating Malaysia’s transition towards low-carbon cities. With urban areas contributing over 70% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the challenge encourages the adoption of low carbon strategies, such as energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, sustainable mobility, and smart urban planning.

    Dato’ Idzham Mohd Hashim, President/CEO of IIB, expressed his unwavering support towards sustainable development, stating, “As we navigate the challenges of urbanisation, it is imperative for us to adopt low carbon practices to ensure the well-being of our society, protect our environment and manage our natural resources efficiently. This recognition is a testament of our commitment towards building an inclusive and sustainable metropolis of the future in Medini, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.”

    As the master developer of Medini, IIB continues to champion sustainability in urban planning and economic growth. Through Medini Innopolis, IIB is positioning Medini as a future-ready city that integrates innovation, sustainability, and economic prosperity. This vision is driven by three key initiatives:

    • Medini International Convention City (MICC) – a global business and convention hub designed to attract investors and drive economic activity;
    • Tech Medini – a digital-first ecosystem supporting technology-driven industries;
    • Net Zero Carbon City Initiative – IIB’s long-term commitment to green urban living, integrating low-carbon technologies and smart infrastructure.

    Medini Innopolis, covering 2,270 acres with 100 acres designated as the NZCC, is part of the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) within the newly announced Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ) in Johor. Aligned with the goal of utilising 70% renewable energy and achieving 100% green buildings by 2050, IIB is committed to championing a sustainable living and working environment for all.
    Meanwhile, IIB’s sustainability efforts extend beyond Medini. EduCity, Johor’s premier education hub, plays a vital role in talent development, supporting the Johor Talent Development Council under the Johor Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). The recognition of EduCity Complex 1 at LCC2030C reflects IIB’s commitment to embedding sustainability into its diverse portfolio.

    The achievements of Medini 9 further reinforce IIB’s ability to implement impactful low-carbon strategies across various developments, setting a benchmark for other organisations to adopt environmentally responsible practices.

    Building on five established pathways within the IIB decarbonisation roadmap which covers Energy, Circularity, Mobility, Built Environment, and Biodiversity-Land Use, IIB will progressively shape its sustainable solutions, from building a potential self-sustaining CBD to aiming at more than 60% carbon emission reductions for its overall operations and destinations by 2040, aligning nation’s Net Zero target by 2050.

    This latest milestone strengthens IIB’s position as a frontrunner in sustainable urban transformation, paving the way for future innovations in low-carbon city development. The company remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders, policymakers, emerging talents and the community to create a resilient, smart, and inclusive city for generations to come.

  • 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.”

  • 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.

  • ICAEW partners SC to strengthen expertise in sustainability disclosures

    The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) have initiated a collaboration through a Letter of Intent to collaborate in certain areas.

    This collaboration focuses on capacity-building, with ICAEW providing specialised training on climate-related financial disclosures, the provision of a programme to obtain Sustainability Certifications, the use of ICAEW training films and other areas.

    As part of this initiative, ICAEW conducted a workshop  at the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum (ACMF) Chairs Meeting in Penang.

    This workshop covered key sustainability disclosure requirements and regulatory best practices, including

    • IFRS S1 and S2 standards for climate and sustainability-related disclosures
    • Scope 3 emissions reporting and measurement challenges
    • The impact of global climate regulations, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
    • The role of regulators in sustainability policy and stakeholder engagement

    This collaboration is timely as Malaysia has assumed the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” With global ESG standards evolving, equipping regulators with the right expertise is crucial.

    ICAEW Chief Executive Alan Vallance welcomed this milestone, stating, “Trust, ethics, and sustainability must be at the core of capital markets. Sustainability is not just about compliance—it is a business imperative that drives resilience, innovation, and long-term success. Through this collaboration with the Securities Commission Malaysia, ICAEW reaffirms its commitment to strengthening regulatory expertise in sustainability across ASEAN.”

    “This collaboration will equip regulators with the tools and insights needed to align with global ESG standards while ensuring that regulation remains supportive, not punitive. By fostering capacity-building, knowledge-sharing, and sustainable finance innovation, we can work together to build an interconnected, inclusive, and resilient ASEAN capital market.”

    Echoing this sentiment, SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi, highlighted the need to upskill regulators: “Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 presents an opportunity to drive sustainability and financial resilience. Our collaboration with ICAEW ensures we stay ahead of global standards while equipping regulators to support market participants. Together, we can strengthen ASEAN’s capital markets and investor confidence,” he said.

    As ICAEW continues to champion sustainability and professional excellence worldwide, this partnership exemplifies its role in empowering financial professionals, policymakers, and regulators with the tools needed to drive meaningful change. Find out more at https://www.icaew.com/technical/sustainability

  • 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.

  • RHB #JOMBIZ empowers over 700 micro-entrepreneurs

    RHB #JOMBIZ empowers over 700 micro-entrepreneurs

    RHB Banking Group (“RHB” or the “Group”) celebrates the continued success of its #JomBiz programme, a socio-economic empowerment initiative aimed at empowering B40 micro-entrepreneurs. Since its launch in 2022, the programme has invested over RM1.1 million, benefitting more than 700 micro-entrepreneurs and delivering an impressive 35% average sales growth within just three months.

    The 2025 RHB #JomBiz Award Ceremony celebrated these remarkable achievements of selected micro- entrepreneurs from RHB Jom#Biz, showcasing the programme’s critical role in providing funding, capacity building, and mentorship to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from the B40 group and underserved communities. The ceremony recognised the recipients of business incentive funding from Cohort 5 of the #JomBiz programme. Participants undergo capacity-building classes on topics such as social media marketing, sustainable business practices, and financial management. Following these sessions, they present their business plans to a panel of judges, with the top 10 proposals receiving initial funding ranging from RM5,000 to RM15,000 to support their business growth.

    Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, Group Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer of RHB Banking Group, emphasised RHB’s commitment to supporting micro-entrepreneurs, “We recognise the immense potential of MSMEs in transforming lives and uplifting communities, but we also acknowledge the challenges they face such as limited access to funding, lack of business knowledge, and the difficulty of building networks within competitive markets. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to driving growth, fostering resilience, and empowering participants to overcome obstacles and thrive in today’s dynamic economy.”

    At the graduation ceremony of Cohort 5, Dato’ Mohd Rashid also shared inspiring success stories from the programme, including participants who secured franchise opportunities and supply contracts with renowned companies after attending the Franchise Expo Malaysia (FEM) 2024 organised by the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA). Notably, four #JomBiz participants were recognised at The Star Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA) 2023.

    The top 3 winners of Cohort 5’s business incentive funding are:

    • 1st Place Puan Nurul Farhana Binti Amirul Hizan, Hanawarrah Creation Enterprise (healthy dried snack food products) – awarded RM15,000
    • 2nd Place Encik Mohd Shafiq Ezwanie Bin Jafri, Senju Co (pastry and bakery business) – awarded RM12,000
    • 3rd Place Puan Nur Shawani Binti Che Mansur, Wisymadani Resources (agro-tourism and agro-based industry business) – awarded RM10,000

    Dato’ Mohd Rashid concluded, “These stories inspire us at RHB to continue providing more platforms for our RHB #JomBiz participants. We hope their success inspires and motivates other micro-entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.”

    RHB aims to expand the #JomBiz programme in 2025 to reach more participants and broaden its impact on Malaysia’s micro-entrepreneur community. The programme will continue to prioritise Asnafs, single parents, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), ensuring inclusive opportunities for all.

    Learn more about how RHB #JomBiz can help micro-entrepreneurs achieve their goals by visiting https://www.rhbgroup.com/jombiz.

  • FWD Insurance and Arus Academy launch financial literacy programme

    FWD Insurance and Arus Academy launch financial literacy programme

    FWD Insurance Berhad (“FWD Insurance”) partners with Arus Academy to empower university students through the Fun(d) for Life – University Edition (FFL Uni) programme. This initiative aims to equip 500 local university students with essential financial skills through a 3-month curriculum that includes training, coaching, and community service.

    “At FWD Insurance, financial literacy is something very dear to our hearts, recognising it as a fundamental skill everyone should have. Through this programme, we go beyond education by offering a holistic approach that not only equips young people with the skills to manage their finance, but also provides them with the resources to put their learning into practice,” said Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Insurance. “By investing in their growth, we empower individuals and cultivate a financially literate society, driving Malaysia’s economic progress.”

    “The Fun(d) for Life – University Edition programme equips university students with the financial skills and autonomy to make informed decisions about their futures,” said Alina Amir, CEO and Co-Founder of Arus Academy. “University students are at a pivotal stage of their lives, where building strong financial habits can significantly shape their future careers and personal goals.”

    The 3-month FFL Uni programme begins with a 3-day immersive bootcamp focused on setting financial goals, budgeting, and creating comprehensive financial plans, including savings, protection, and investments. Over the course of the programme, students will receive ongoing coaching and mentoring, alongside tools to track expenses, reflect on their financial habits, and develop actionable financial plans. Participants will also document their journey through weekly diaries to raise awareness about financial literacy.

    A significant component of the initiative includes eight hours of community service, where participants teach financial literacy to at least 20 peers. By the programme’s end, each participant will receive a meaningful RM3,000 grant, deposited into their savings accounts or as fixed deposits, to support their financial goals and foster long-term independence. With an anticipated reach of over 10,000 beneficiaries through direct engagement and community service, the initiative reinforces Malaysia’s vision of fostering a financially literate, resilient, and economically inclusive society.

    Aligned with FWD Insurance’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals to uplift communities, the program seamlessly blends Arus Academy’s innovative teaching methods with FWD Insurance’s dedication to financial inclusion, working hand-in-hand towards a common goal of nurturing a financially savvy generation. By reaching tertiary students, FFL Uni is broadening its impact on youth of all ages, promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future nationwide. Previously, a collaboration between Arus Academy and FWD Takaful Berhad benefited over 47,108 primary and secondary school students from January to December 2024 through comprehensive financial education initiatives, featuring interactive learning portals, financial literacy camps, and design-focused events in 2024.

    The first cohort, comprising 50 students, will begin in February 2025. Interested applicants can submit their application requests to https://arus.cc/FFLUni-registration-of-interest-2025. For more information, visit https://www.instagram.com/fundforlife_uni/.

     

  • TCS Global Study: 64% of consumers likely to choose EV

    TCS Global Study: 64% of consumers likely to choose EV

    A new study by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS), reveals that more than six out of 10 (64%) consumers are likely or very likely to consider an electric vehicle (EV) for their next purchase. The TCS Future-Ready eMobility Study 2025, a comprehensive report on how EVs are shaping the future of sustainable mobility, also highlights that while 60% of consumers said charging infrastructure was a major challenge, 56% were ready to pay up to $40K for an EV.

    This study surveyed over 1,300 anonymous respondents across North America (USA, Canada), United Kingdom & Ireland, Continental Europe (Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland) and APAC (China, India, Japan, ANZ). The respondents for the survey included transport manufacturers, charging infrastructure players, fleet adopters, consumers and EV adoption influencers.

    Sustainability and lower operational costs were key factors driving EV adoption, according to the study. While consumers and influencers highlighted a clear motivation for EV adoption as ‘environmental sustainability’, the environmental benefits did not match the expectations of many EV influencers. Nearly 48% EV influencers said EVs increase the overall carbon output just as much as they reduce it, with 10% even saying EV adoption is negatively impacting the environment. Commercial fleets maintain a positive outlook towards electric mobility, with a sizable percentage—53%—pointing to reducing operational costs as a primary motivation. Fleet adopters were willing to pay a premium for EVs than for traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

    Despite the growing interest in EVs among consumers, significant challenges remain, particularly in the areas of charging infrastructure and technological advancements. While 74% of EV manufacturers said the lack of appropriate charging infrastructure remains the biggest obstacle limiting growth in the EV market, 55% have already started investing in innovation for battery technology advancements. Nearly 78% are making investments to reduce vehicle costs to cater to growing demand for EVs.

    Anupam Singhal, President, Manufacturing, TCS, said, “The EV industry is at a defining crossroad, navigating the complexities of scale and transformation. While nearly two-thirds of consumers are open to choosing electric for their next vehicle, manufacturers face challenges like advancing battery technology, complex vehicle designs, and production economics. At TCS, our Future-Ready Mobility vision focuses on creating an interconnected ecosystem powered by AI and Gen AI to drive smarter decision-making, enhanced customer experiences, and deliver scalable, sustainable solutions. By addressing these critical challenges, we are accelerating the global shift toward electrified and sustainable transportation.”

    The survey indicates that 90% of manufacturers believe that improvements in battery technology will enhance range and charging speed and will significantly impact the design and performance of EVs in the near term compared to other technological advancements.

    Key results from the survey, which can be found at TCS Future-Ready eMobility Study 2025, include-

    • 90% EV manufacturers and 84% of EV Influencers said battery technology improvements to optimise range and charging speed will have a large impact on design and performance of EVs
    • 74% of manufacturers believed charging infrastructure remains the biggest obstacle limiting EV market growth
    • 72% of EV charging infrastructure players are expecting significant mergers in the EV space driven by financial viability and scaling challenges
    • 41% consumers said that an acceptable EV range on a single charge is 200-300 miles, followed by 31% respondents who felt 300-400 miles is a better deal
    • 63% EV influencers said their primary motivation for EV adoption is to achieve net-zero goals and reduce carbon footprint
    • 55% of EV manufacturers are investing in R&D for battery technology advancements, while 78% are investing in vehicle cost reduction
    • 72% US consumers are likely or very likely to purchase an EV as their next vehicle, compared to less than 31% of Japanese consumers

    In a world quickly moving towards electric mobility, TCS’ vision for future-ready mobility combines technological innovation, strategic collaboration, and deep expertise to empower manufacturers and EV stakeholders to navigate change. TCS drives change across the mobility value chain, from vehicle design and gigafactory planning to digital platforms, generative AI, and personalised customer experiences. Focused on sustainable mobility and measurable value, it partners with customers to shape a bold, sustainable future.

  • 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).