Inovatif

Category: events

  • 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.

  • Alibaba Cloud unveils ACS for international customers to revolutionise workload deployment

    Alibaba Cloud unveils ACS for international customers to revolutionise workload deployment

    Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group announces the international debut of its innovative Alibaba Cloud Container Compute Service (ACS), designed to simplify and optimise workload deployment using container technology. ACS will be available for international customers starting from January 2025.

    ACS, which uses Kubernetes as its interface, offers a serverless container service that provides compute resources compliant with container standards. This new product eliminates the need for users to manage underlying nodes and clusters, significantly reducing costs and technical barriers associated with container deployment. It also allows customers to pay-as-you-go, helping them avoid over allocated, and scale on demand, enabling the optimisation of costs during periods of high and low usage.

    “As the deployment of workloads on container technology becomes increasingly prevalent, we developed a more accessible solution that would anticipate the evolving needs of our customers,” said Jiangwei Jiang, General Manager of Infrastructure Products, Alibaba Cloud. “ACS represents a big step forward in how businesses can utilise container technology, offering cost-efficiency and ease of use to support businesses unleashing productivity.”

    Container technology, a form of virtualisation that bundles programmes with everything they need to run, makes it easy to deploy applications consistently across different hardware and systems. The benefits in terms of efficiency and resource optimisation have made containers a mainstream development method.

    According to Gartner, the container management market has experienced over 20% growth in the past year, with projections indicating a market value of US$4.5 billion by 2028. Gartner also predicts that by 2027, more than 75% of all AI deployments will utilise container technology as the underlying compute environment.

    ACS is designed to overcome the complexities associated with Kubernetes configuration, resource management, and on-demand elasticity. By integrating containers and resources based on Alibaba Cloud’s Shenlong architecture to allow maximum scaling of computing resources, ACS offers a solution capable of reducing computing power costs by up to 55%.

    “ACS has transformed the container orchestration service into a comprehensive computing product. Users benefit by paying only for the compute capacity that they use,” Jiang added.

    This product is fully compatible with Kubernetes technologies and supports seamless migration to the cloud for both open-source ecosystems as well as self-developed products. This is notable in that users can continue using familiar Kubernetes management methods and file formats. There is also no need to pre-purchase nodes so users can simply declare their workload requirements and ACS will match them with the necessary underlying compute resources. This minimises the demand for additional costs and human resources in infrastructure maintenance.

    Alibaba Cloud Container Service supports different architectures and can be deployed in multiple cloud environment including public cloud, private cloud and hybrid cloud. Currently, Alibaba Cloud Container Service has been applied across a wide range of industries.

  • 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).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • EA Technique and Vestigo Petroleum reach amicable understanding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MPG 272URX QD-OLED

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

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

    MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50

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

    MPG 322URX QD-OLED

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

     Ready For the Future

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

    Exquisite Details with Mini LED Technology

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

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

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

    AI Navigator: Elevating Gaming with Smart Optimization

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    How NFC tag tampering works

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

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

    The dangers of malicious NFC tags

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

    Protect yourself against NFC tag tampering

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

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

    Advice for businesses

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

  • WCT Bahrain signs MoU to advance brine recovery solutions in Bahrain

    WCT Bahrain signs MoU to advance brine recovery solutions in Bahrain

    WCT Bahrain WLL (“WCT Bahrain”), a subsidiary of WCT Berhad, Tahliya Water Treatment WLL (“TWT”), and the Saudi Water Authority (“SWA”) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) to promote collaboration in implementing brine recovery solutions for desalination plants in Bahrain.

    The initiative seeks to reduce the environmental impact of desalination processes while producing valuable by-products such as Sodium Chloride and other minerals. The project aligns with Bahrain’s goals of enhancing food security and reducing reliance on imports, contributing to sustainable regional development to combat sea level rise and climate change.

    The MoU was signed in conjunction with the 3rd Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference, hosted by SWA in Jeddah under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture.

    Under the MoU, WCT Bahrain will serve as the design-and-build contractor, overseeing the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) aspects of the project while TWT will act as the plant owner, responsible for project CAPEX and operation management. SWA is responsible in providing strategic and technical advisory services, guiding the deployment of brine recovery technology.

    This collaboration aims to develop and implement advanced brine mining technology, improve desalination efficiency, conserve energy, and produce valuable minerals locally to reduce import dependency.  Bahrain’s existing desalination plants will benefit from these advancements, aligning with the nation’s sustainability priorities.

  • AXXESS Introduces Mobility Protect for Touch ‘n Go Users

    Over 30 million Touch n’ Go card and 3.6 million registered RFID tag users can now access Mobility Protect, an innovative insurance solution designed to protect personal belongings or mitigate medical costs due to unforeseen accidents or loss when using toll roads, car park facilities or public transport.

    At RM2.99 per month for unlimited usage, commuters receive on-demand, convenient access to loss and accident coverage each time they tap their card or scan their RFID tag. Developed by AXXESS in collaboration with Touch n’ Go and AIG, the key benefits of Mobility Protect include:

    • Toll Road Protection: Includes transportation allowance due to accident, accidental injury hospitalisation income, tyre damage, hotel accommodation in case of an accident.
    • Parking Coverage: Protection against vehicle break-in, theft, key replacement, medical reimbursement.
    • Public Transport Benefits: Transportation allowance and medical reimbursement due to accident, snatch theft, accidental injury hospitalisation income.

    “This benefit marks another step in our mission to elevate the everyday experiences of Touch ‘n Go users,” said Mr. Praba Sangarajoo, CEO of Touch ‘n Go Sdn Bhd.

    “Mobility Protect was designed specifically for our Touch ‘n Go customers, providing additional protection and peace of mind as they go about their daily lives.”

    The monthly subscription provides comprehensive access to Mobility Protect with coverage automatically activated once the card is tapped to begin a journey or entry into a car park and deactivated when tapping out once that journey ends.

    “With over 30 million Touch ‘n Go card and 3.6 million+ registered RFID tag users we saw a unique opportunity to provide a truly personalized and on-demand insurance solution that fits into the daily commute of Malaysians,” said Tan Sri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohd Tahir, Executive Director of AXXESS.

    “Mobility Protect provides commuters with the flexibility and convenience they require, offering peace of mind with every ‘tap’ or ‘scan’.”

    “We’re excited to partner with AXXESS and Touch ‘n Go on this transformative insurance product,” said Mr. Antony Lee, CEO of AIG Malaysia. “At AIG, we are committed to offering insurance solutions that help people protect their assets and manage risks.”