Inovatif

Category: events

  • Sheraton Hotels & Resorts unveils Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

    Sheraton Hotels & Resorts unveils Sheraton Kota Kinabalu

    Sheraton Hotels & Resorts proudly announces the opening of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, a striking destination set to redefine the hospitality landscape of Sabah’s capital city. Rising as one of the tallest towers in Borneo, the 307-room hotel is surrounded by the views of the South China Sea and the majestic Mount Kinabalu range.

    “Kota Kinabalu is one of Malaysia’s most inspiring destinations, known for its rich heritage, diverse cultures, and extraordinary natural beauty,” said Ramesh Jackson, Regional Vice President, Indonesia & Malaysia, Marriott International. “The opening of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu marks an exciting milestone as we expand Sheraton’s community-focused design and signature experiences across key destinations in the region. This hotel is more than a place to stay – it’s a vibrant hub for travelers and locals to meet, collaborate, and discover the very best of Sabah.”

    Sheraton Kota Kinabalu is located along Jalan Albert Kwok, just steps from the waterfront, retail, dining, and cultural attractions. Sheraton Club guests including Marriott Bonvoy Elite members, Club Floor guests, and Suite room guests can enjoy exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge. The lounge features curated food and beverage offerings, premium amenities, enhanced connectivity, and provides guests 24/7 access to a private environment.

    The hotel’s culinary venues serve as vibrant new gathering places in the heart of Kota Kinabalu:

    • Daily Social – A lively all-day dining venue serving global favorites and local specialities
    • &More by Sheraton – A dynamic fusion of a coffee shop, market stall, and laidback bar, where guests can seamlessly transition from a morning coffee to an evening cocktail
    • The Burger Box – A casual, creative space for handcrafted gourmet burgers, snacks, and quick bites
    • Rooftop Bar – Rising 100 meters above sea level, this stunning sky-high venue offers handcrafted cocktails and coveted views of the coastline, islands, and city skyline.

    Designed as a premium destination for gatherings, Sheraton Kota Kinabalu also features an 703-sqm grand ballroom, four flexible meeting rooms, and collaborative event spaces ideal for conferences, celebrations, and milestone moments. Supported by state-of-the-art technology and Sheraton’s dedicated events team, these venues bring to life the brand’s belief – that the best work and the best memories happen when people come together.

    The Wedding Pavilion, perched above the city with sweeping views of the sea and surrounding islands, offers a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable ceremonies and celebrations.

    Sheraton Kota Kinabalu participates in Marriott Bonvoy – the award-winning travel programme from Marriott International – allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay at the new hotel, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalisation and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

     

  • RENN Asia establishes first Malaysia-China NFM collaboration

    RENN Asia establishes first Malaysia-China NFM collaboration

    RENN Asia Wellness (RENN), a home-grown brand focusing on Nutritional and Functional Medicine (NFM), is pioneering Malaysia-China cooperation in this field with the opening of a centre in Guangzhou, China.

    In collaboration with Jian Shi Tang (JST) of Guangzhou and adopting its Malaysian-developed NFM clinical framework, RENN will operate a first-of-its-kind wellness centre at the prestigious Leatop Plaza in Tianhe District of Guangzhou.

    This collaboration places Malaysia among the first in the region to export a full chronic-disease management model to China, starting with diabetes care.

    China is grappling with one of the world’s largest diabetes epidemics, estimated at more than 140 million adults. Rising complications and healthcare expenditures have accelerated the search for preventive and functional medicine solutions capable of reducing long-term disease progression.

    Despite strong national efforts, persistent gaps remain in preventive and functional care models, particularly those that integrate nutrition, root-cause investigation, lifestyle medicine, personalised diagnostics, and long-term monitoring. The introduction of a Malaysian-developed NFM framework is seen as a strategic complement to China’s evolving healthcare reforms.

    The Malaysian-led NFM initiative offers a structured, root-cause focused alternative. Rather than merely managing symptoms, NFM emphasises personalised assessment, lifestyle and nutrition intervention, metabolic optimisation and preventive care. By doing so, it aims to stabilise or even reverse elements of metabolic dysfunction, a critically needed tool in China’s fight against chronic disease.

    RENN Asia will supply not only the NFM protocols and programme design but also experienced Malaysian practitioners as advisers for the initial launch phase. This approach ensures that the first centre accurately reflects the rigorous standards and holistic philosophy developed in Malaysia through years of clinical experience.

    “Bringing a Malaysian-refined NFM framework into China shows that we can be a provider of practical healthcare solutions to other nations. Our role is not only to export knowledge, but to support JST in building a system that can sustainably transform community health outcomes in Guangzhou and eventually across China,” said Jonathan Chew, Founder and CEO of RENN.

    “For JST, we see tremendous potential in RENN Asia’s NFM framework. Its emphasis on personalised assessment and root-cause intervention aligns with the future direction of healthcare in China,” said JST lead medical practitioner Dr Dai Qi Ming.

    Both organisations plan to scale the partnership to other chronic conditions once the diabetes programme demonstrates stable outcomes. Future expansion areas include cardiovascular disease, liver and metabolic disorders, hormonal imbalances, and allergy-related conditions — all of which contribute significantly to China’s rising chronic disease burden.

    The joint initiative aims to generate long-term impact by reducing avoidable complications, lowering treatment costs, and improving clients’ independence and quality of life. Through this collaboration, Malaysia’s contribution extends beyond clinical expertise to knowledge export, professional capacity building, and regional health innovation.

  • Alibaba Cloud and MDEC launch SME Digitalisation Program

    Alibaba Cloud and MDEC launch SME Digitalisation Program

    Alibaba Cloud and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) launched the SME Digitalisation Program — a comprehensive initiative designed to accelerate the digital transformation journey of Malaysia’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
    Developed in support of MDEC’s Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI), the programme aims to empower Malaysia’s SMEs to harness the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, technologies that underpin productivity, innovation, and global competitiveness.

    Recognising that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are vital to Malaysia’s socioeconomic development and central to achieving the 2030 GDP growth targets outlined in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), this initiative addresses a critical national priority. Built around four key pillars of digital transformation; Awareness, Upskilling, Adoption, and Innovation, the program is designed to accelerate digital adoption, strengthen the SME ecosystem, and foster sustainable, innovation-led growth for local businesses.

    “By focusing on SMEs, this programme ensures that a broad segment of Malaysia’s business ecosystem can harness the transformative potential of AI and cloud technologies. said Feifei Li, President of International Business and SVP of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence Group, “Leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s advanced technologies in AI and cloud computing, we are excited to partner with MDEC to empower Malaysian businesses to innovate, scale, and thrive in the digital economy—driving sustainable growth and strengthen competitiveness at scale.”

    Anuar Fariz Fadzil, Chief Executive Officer of MDEC added, “Malaysia’s SMEs are an integral part of our aspiration to become an AI- nation by 2030. The ability to adopt advanced digital tools, particularly AI and cloud technologies, is critical to strengthening our competitive edge. Through this strategic public-private collaboration with Alibaba Cloud, we aim to bridge the digital divide and uplift our SMEs. By equipping businesses with accessible and impactful digital solutions, we are accelerating nationwide digital adoption and establishing the foundations of a resilient innovation-led economy.”

    The SME Digitalisation Program will roll out a series of targeted initiatives including educational campaigns, interactive workshops, webinar series, and ready-to-use solution kits, all designed to support SMEs at every stage of their business journey and empower them to turn challenges into growth.
    With practical upskilling and real-world application at its core, the initiative empowers SME to become a digitally capable force that drives Malaysia’s national digital transformation goals under the Malaysia Digital (MD) initiative.

    This collaboration reinforces Alibaba Cloud’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital economy by empowering local businesses with secure, scalable, and accessible technologies. Through this program Alibaba Cloud and MDEC are bridging capability gaps, nurturing innovation, and contributing to a robust, inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem across the nation.

  • Lazada Malaysia records surge in premium brand purchases

    Malaysian consumers are showing a decisive shift in their online shopping behaviour, with premium brands now driving some of the strongest growth on Lazada Malaysia’s platform during the 11.11 Global Brands Festival 2025.

    Premium brands such as Nike, Sony, Estée Lauder, Dyson and Lancôme were among the top brands purchased on Lazada Malaysia during 11.11, showing that Malaysians are confidently choosing higher value products online and are doing it on Lazada.

    Consumers are also demonstrating strong trust in Lazada’s platform for higher value electronics. Shoppers in the Electronics (EL) category increasingly chose higher value gadgets, emerging as standout performers during the recent mega campaign. During the 11.11 campaign:

    • Smart Devices, a sub segment of Electronics, recorded a 76% increase in average order value (AOV) compared to the 9.9 campaign.
    • Computers and Components another sub segment of Electronics, grew 106% while Gaming Devices and Software increased 197% in purchase compared to 9.9.

    Meanwhile, beauty emerged as a clear premiumisation story, with top tier skincare brands delivering some of the sharpest growth in spend per order on Lazada during 11.11 compared to 9.9. Average order value climbed 54% for Lancôme, 44% for Kérastase and 47% for Innisfree, underscoring Malaysians’ growing appetite for higher value branded products online.

    “Malaysian consumers are showing a new level of confidence in buying premium products online, and the results from 11.11 reflect this remarkable shift. This demonstrates a deep trust in Lazada’s authenticity, fulfilment quality and the overall shopping experience. We will continue investing in technology, partnerships and consumer protection systems that give Malaysians the confidence to shop safely and securely,” said Kaya Qin, Chief Executive Officer of Lazada Malaysia.

    Verified virtual mall environments continue to benefit most from this shift. LazMall’s AOV surged by a 20% compared to the 9.9 campaign. LazMall’s AOV on 11.11 also rose 13% year on year from 2024 to 2025, reflecting larger and more considered baskets.

    This performance mirrors wider regional trends captured in a recent Cube Asia study, “The Rise of Virtual Mall Ecosystems in Southeast Asia”, commissioned by Lazada. Regionally, authenticity driven eCommerce, defined as branded goods purchased through authorised Mall environments on eCommerce platforms, has grown from 12% of total eCommerce in 2020 to 30% in 2025, and is projected to reach 55% by 2030, worth around USD $150 billion in sales.

    The Malaysia cut of the study underscores how strongly local shoppers are leaning into Mall environments on eCommerce platforms and quality led decisions:

    • Nearly 30% of Malaysian consumers say they are willing to pay an extra 5% to 10% for the assurance of purchasing from verified Mall stores.
    • About 85% of Malaysian online shoppers now make at least 40% of their purchases in Mall environments, especially for fashion, beauty, electronics and home.

    Digital tools inside the Lazada ecosystem also saw strong momentum during 11.11, helping Malaysians shop more intentionally.

    AI Lazzie, Lazada’s AI powered shopping assistant, enabled:

    • 56.13% more conversions compared to the 9.9 campaign.
    • 85.65% more conversions compared to a normal business day.

    Shoppers are using AI Lazzie to refine searches, compare options, understand reviews quickly and build better quality baskets within their budgets.

    At the same time, creator and affiliate driven commerce is gaining ground, with affiliate driven performance in Malaysia growing 108% during the 11.11 campaign compared to 9.9, boosted by Lazada’s collaboration with YouTube as creator content and product recommendations helped turn inspiration into purchases.

    These levers, AI Lazzie and affiliates, will play an even more important role ahead of 12.12 as Malaysians, plan year end purchases in beauty, electronics, lifestyle and home, and look to stretch their ringgit through smarter, more confident choices.

  • Taylor’s Education introduces First Lexel International Schools

    Taylor’s Education introduces First Lexel International Schools

    Taylor’s Education Group (TEG), has launched Lexel International Schools, a new model of international education designed to make globally benchmarked learning more accessible to Malaysian families. Lexel, a merging of the words “lexicon” and “excellence,” has been designed to inspire students to build their own bodies of knowledge and pursue excellence in everything they do.

    This initiative builds on the 2024 strategic partnership between TEG and Gamuda Land, combining Taylor’s academic excellence with Gamuda Land’s township development expertise. The collaboration integrates affordable private education into master-planned communities, enhancing quality of life and long-term value. Lexel’s first campus at the township of Gamuda Gardens offers students a unique campus with well-lit, large classrooms, labs, as well as a library, multi-purpose hall, and canteen, amid the town centre and with easy access to township amenities including an Olympic-length swimming pool, Wellness Centre, indoor badminton courts, and extensive parks, walking trails, and water features.

    Malaysia’s private and international school sector has grown rapidly over the past decade. Between 2019 and 2024, local student enrolment in international schools increased by 34%, driven by a growing middle class and rising demand for globally relevant, English-medium education. At the same time, Malaysia’s national plan continues to strengthen its position as a regional education hub, with the government targeting 250,000 international students by 2025.

    Despite this growth, many families face barriers such as high tuition fees and limited proximity to reputable schools. Lexel International Schools bridge this gap by offering internationally benchmarked education at an accessible price point, supported by holistic facilities and community infrastructure within Gamuda Land’s township.

    Speaking at the launch, Karl Engkvist, President of Taylor’s Education Private Limited, emphasised the strategic importance of expanding access to international education as part of Taylor’s long-term growth and social impact agenda. “Taylor’s has always been committed to shaping the future of education in Malaysia and beyond. Lexel International Schools represents a strategic step in delivering high-quality international education at an affordable price point. By leveraging our academic expertise and operational excellence, we are creating a scalable model that aligns with our vision to educate the youth of the world and prepare them for global opportunities.”

    The new Lexel campus at Gamuda Gardens expands Taylor’s education ecosystem beyond its nine established institutions in Southeast Asia, which collectively serve more than 34,000 students annually. Lexel upholds academic excellence by drawing on proven frameworks from Taylor’s institutions in Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam, supported by the expertise of Taylor’s University School of Education. This approach ensures world-class facilities and quality education while keeping fees significantly lower.

    Wong Siew Lee, Chief Operating Officer of Gamuda Land, underscored the role of education in driving sustainable community development and long-term value creation. “For us at Gamuda Land, building a township has always been more than constructing homes or designing beautiful parks. It’s about building a place where life can truly happen for a community.”

    “That is why weaving reputable education partners into our masterplan is such an important part of what we do. We’ve always believed that a great township is defined by the people and partners we bring in. Whether it’s education, retail, wellness, or lifestyle — the right partners help us create places where our residents have everything they need, right here at home,” Wong added.

    In 2026, Lexel plans to open its second flagship campus in Gamuda Cove, further strengthening its presence and expanding access to affordable international education. Beyond these two campuses, the brand also aims to grow nationwide and into regional markets, creating a network of schools that deliver consistent quality and inclusivity.

  • MBSB partners with Santander Group’s Navigator Global

    MBSB partners with Santander Group’s Navigator Global

    MBSB announces a strategic partnership with Navigator Global, a pioneering global trade platform developed by the Santander Group, aimed at transforming how Malaysian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) access international markets.

    Through this partnership, MBSB will connect Malaysian businesses to Navigator Global’s powerful digital platform, offering a comprehensive suite of tools that simplifies international trade and helps to accelerate growth. These include tailored market-entry action plans, real-time global market intelligence, an extensive network of verified providers and local experts, as well as a rich calendar of educational events and webinars. The goal is clear: to help Malaysian SMEs overcome traditional barriers and participate more confidently in the global economy.

    “This partnership with Navigator Global is a landmark achievement for MBSB and for the future of Malaysian SMEs,” said Rafe Haneef, Group Chief Executive Officer of MBSB. “In an era defined by connection, global trade offers significant opportunities for growth. This collaboration aligns with our strategic imperative to empower businesses with the confidence and acumen to extend their footprint far beyond Malaysia’s shores. We see Navigator Global becoming an indispensable ally for many of our SMEs, breaking down the complexity to international commerce and making global markets more accessible than ever.”

    A pilot programme in the UK demonstrated strong impact, having supported more than 2,500 UK businesses in expanding internationally and catalysing hundreds of global connections. The enhanced Navigator Global platform, now introduced to Malaysia via MBSB’s Commercial Business Division, features an intuitive trade tool that generates bespoke export action plans and provides direct access to verified global providers. It is designed not only to inform, but to enable decisive action and sustained international growth.

    “Our collaboration with MBSB represents a significant stride forward in our mission to simplify international trade, and help to accelerate SME growth” said John Carroll, CEO of Navigator Global Ltd. “We are a membership club, that guides ambitious businesses through the international trade journey and offers end-to-end solutions.” SME’s are the centre of the Malaysian success story, they are the inventors, the job creators and the lifeblood of communities. Through this partnership we can help to reduce the cost, time and risks associated with going global. This alliance reflects a shared vision: a more integrated, accessible and prosperous global trade ecosystem, where SMEs get the support they need.”

    Navigator Global directly addresses the core challenges businesses face when venturing abroad, including complexity, high risks of failure and limited visibility of credible partners. The platform offers clear guidance on local regulations and compliance, privileged access to experts, verified partners and comprehensive, actionable market intelligence. This helps SMEs identify and connect with trusted local contacts, significantly streamlining their expansion efforts.

    The platform is available to businesses at any stage in their international growth journey, from identifying their first market, to expanding within existing ones and looking for new opportunities.

  • WCT launches new CSR initiative

    WCT launches new CSR initiative

    WCT Holdings Berhad (WCT) has launched its latest CSR initiative, “Uniting Communities, Building the Nation” (Mengeratkan Komuniti Bersama Membina Negara), at Kampung Sungai Kembong Hilir, Kajang.

    Organised under WCTGives and guided by its pillars of #WeCareTogether and #EducationForAll, the initiative aims to revitalise the village’s balai raya and enhance facilities that support learning, social development, and community well-being.

    As part of the initiative, WCT contributed funds and volunteer support to refurbish the hall’s adjoining toilet, upgrade the badminton court into a multipurpose space, enhance the kitchen, and provide new tables, chairs, and a reading corner equipped with 300 books for local children. These improvements will enable the balai raya to once again serve as a venue for community meetings, cooking classes, tuition sessions, and recreational activities – fostering learning and connection across generations.

    The 80-year-old hall, which had been closed since 2017 due to ageing structures and roof damage, was recently restored by the Hulu Langat District Office and the local community. Building on these efforts, WCT’s contribution further strengthens the hall’s role as the heart of the village, benefitting the 2,000 residents in Kampung Sungai Kembong Hilir.

    In addition, WCT extended its support to 100 families from nearby villages – Kampung Sungai Kembong Hilir, Kampung Rinching Hilir, and Kampung Sungai Kembong Hulu by providing Kotak Rezeki packages containing essential groceries worth RM100 each.

    Launched in 2022, WCTGives embodies WCT’s commitment to balancing profitability with purpose — creating shared value for both business and society through its three core pillars: #WeCareTogether, #AGreenerTomorrow, and #EducationForAll.

     

  • XTransfer and Maybank announce strategic partnership

    XTransfer and Maybank announce strategic partnership

    XTransfer, the world’s leading B2B cross-border trade payment platform, and Maybank, a leading bank in ASEAN, are pleased to announce a strategic partnership to expand cross-border payment and Shariah-compliant solutions through an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

    Under the collaboration, XTransfer and Maybank will harness their respective strengths to deliver one-stop cross-border financial solutions, spanning domestic and cross-border payments and FX conversion, across key ASEAN markets, Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States.

    The parties will leverage new technologies and innovations, including APIs, digital platforms, collection solutions, and virtual accounts, to enable automated, real-time, and seamless FX conversion and transaction processing, enhancing the scalability, efficiency, and reliability of cross-border financial services.

    Recognising the growing demand for Islamic finance-compliant services in ASEAN, XTransfer and Maybank will also explore and develop Shariah-compliant FX and payment offerings tailored to regional needs, broadening financial inclusion and meeting the evolving requirements of businesses seeking Shariah-compliant solutions.

    This comprehensive partnership deepens XTransfer’s Southeast Asia coverage and multi-currency settlement capabilities, while supporting Maybank’s strategy to strengthen its regional franchise and ecosystem connectivity.

    Bill Deng, Founder and CEO of XTransfer, said, “This collaboration with Maybank marks a significant step in elevating our services across ASEAN. With stronger local collection, FX conversion, and potential Shariah-compliant settlement capabilities, we will help businesses reduce costs, enhance cash flow, and improve transaction efficiency. We will continue to strengthen compliance and risk management to build a trusted cross-border financial infrastructure for our clients.”

    Dato’ Sri Khairussaleh Ramli, President and Group CEO of Maybank said, “Together with XTransfer, we can enable more seamless cross-border payments and collections with competitive forex rates for merchants engaged in ASEAN-China trade, and participate in the surging flows between the two regions—now each other’s largest trading partners. Total trade value is on track to reach USD1 trillion this year. This collaboration also opens opportunities to develop innovative solutions for businesses. With Maybank’s presence in the key ASEAN markets, we are truly well positioned to support their cross-border needs.”

  • SC empowers women through investED for Returning Women

    The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) officially launches investED for Returning Women, a training and re-entry programme designed to support women seeking to rejoin the capital market after a career break.

    The programme will provide returning women with the essential knowledge, skills and opportunities to thrive in the capital market.

    First announced in October this year, investED for Returning Women has received over 600 applications, reflecting strong interest and demand among women seeking structured pathways back into professional employment.

    Applicants’ ages range from mid 30s to late 40s, with many coming from the oil & gas, banking, finance and insurance sectors. Most applicants cited family responsibilities and caregiving as the primary reasons for the career break.
    investED for Returning Women is designed to support women re-entering the workforce after a career break, particularly into the capital market sector. It is delivered in two phases:

    1. REFRESH (professional & personal readiness)
    Focuses on building confidence, reintroducing workplace culture, and enhancing soft skills through career clinics, personalised guidance, and networking to prepare participants for job placement.

    2. RESKILL (technical & market competence)
    Equips participants with updated technical skills and industry knowledge relevant to today’s capital market, supported by structured training, industry exposure, and follow-up support during the first six months of employment.

    These phases provide a comprehensive pathway for women to successfully return to the workforce. Participants who complete both phases will receive RM2,000 in incentive and a certificate.

    SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi said the programme aligns with the SC’s efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion in the capital market workforce, where women represent a substantial part of the talent pool.

    “Among the top 100 listed companies on Bursa Malaysia, over 34% of board positions are held by women as at 1 Oct 2025. With the capital market’s growing sophistication and facing a talent shortage, this programme aims to tap into the experience and expertise of returning professionals to strengthen the market’s depth and resilience,” he said.

    Similar to the approach taken for SC’s investED Leadership Programme, investED for Returning Women combines classroom learning, mentorship, and industry placements.

    The SC will also facilitate potential employment by connecting participants with partner companies. Participants will also receive guidance from seasoned professionals in leading firms.

    The programme is supported by the 30% Club Malaysia, LeadWomen Sdn Bhd, Securities Industry Development Corporation (SIDC), PricewaterhouseCoopers Malaysia Holdings Sdn Bhd (PwC) and Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad. These partners play an active role in designing training modules and offering workplace placements.

  • NCT Group establishes RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah programme

    NCT Group establishes RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah programme

    NCT Group of Companies (NCT Group) marks a significant double milestone — the launch of its maiden RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah Programme, with Maybank participating in the first tranche up to RM390 million in unrated Sukuk, alongside the ground-breaking ceremony for Phase 2 of its flagship NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) in Selangor.

    The award-winning developer established the RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah Programme to enhance funding flexibility for its working capital needs and support the Group’s long-term growth strategy, while broadening its access to the domestic debt capital market.

    Dato’ Sri Yap Ngan Choy, Founder and Group Managing Director of NCT Group, said “We are delighted to work with Maybank as our valued partner in our Sukuk Wakalah Programme, a key initiative that strengthens our financial foundation. The Sukuk Programme will provide us with greater flexibility to pursue new opportunities, driving us into the next phase of growth as we continue to deliver developments that generate sustainable value for our stakeholders.”

    The Group has appointed Maybank Investment Bank Berhad as the Sole Principal Adviser and Sole Lead Arranger for the establishment of the Sukuk Wakalah Programme, as well as the Sole Lead Manager for the first tranche of the unrated Sukuk.

    Following the Sukuk announcement, NCT Group also celebrated the ground-breaking of Phase 2 of its 732.5-acre NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) in Selangor.

    With a gross development value of RM2.5 billion, the ground-breaking of Phase 2 underscores NCT Group’s strong commitment to driving industrial transformation and promoting economic growth in the state through world-class development built on the pillars of innovation, digitalisation and sustainability.

    The new phase will build upon the success of Phase 1, featuring similar industrial components with larger plots and enhanced infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of high-technology, logistics, and manufacturing industries. Maintaining NSIP’s core focus on smart and sustainability-driven development, Phase 2 will further strengthen the park’s integrated ecosystem with improved connectivity, upgraded utilities, and advanced digital systems that support automation and future-ready operations for long-term industrial growth. Completion of Phase 2 is scheduled for 2029.

    Dato’ Sri Yap added, “Another key milestone has been achieved today with this ground-breaking. Given the scale and expectations of this project, we are determined to ensure that each phase is completed well within its timeline as we continue to shape the nation’s industrial future. This next chapter brings us closer to realising a smart, sustainable, and globally competitive ecosystem that will elevate the sector.”

    Located within the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor (IDRISS), NSIP is NCT Group’s flagship project and one of Malaysia’s most advanced managed industrial ecosystems that is redefining industrial development in the region while meeting global ESG standards. Once fully developed, NSIP will serve as a key catalyst for the progress of Selangor and the broader IDRISS corridor.