Inovatif

Category: lifestyle

  • Iskandar Investment Berhad launches EduCity Sports Complex 2.0

    Iskandar Investment Berhad launches EduCity Sports Complex 2.0

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • OPEN!! OSAKA highlights prefecture’s vision as global business hub

    OPEN!! OSAKA highlights prefecture’s vision as global business hub

    The Osaka Prefectural Government hosted “OPEN!! OSAKA,” a comprehensive press tour showcasing the region’s international business environment and growth strategy. The programme included visits to Kansai International Airport, Osaka Prefecture’s Sakishima office, and Nakanoshima Qross, featuring high-level presentations and an interview session with Governor Yoshimura.

    Osaka’s Unique Edge in Global Competition
    “We want Osaka to be selected as a unique area, and also we have to create a distinct edge when compared to other major urban areas,” emphasised Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura. The Governor also highlighted how these advantages drive growth across multiple sectors, particularly in life sciences, exemplified by research institutions and medical industry development at Nakanoshima Qross. The region’s strength is further evidenced by robust international tourism, with Kansai Airport handling 18.92 million foreign passengers in 2024.

    EXPO 2025: Beyond Economic Impact
    While EXPO 2025 is projected to generate a ¥3 trillion economic impact, Governor Yoshimura emphasised its broader purpose, “The Expo in general is not a profit-making project. We are supposed to provide solutions to global challenges and global issues.” The Expo’s wooden ring structure symbolises diversity and unity. “We will have to think about how important human lives are… providing solutions to world issues,” he added.

    Manufacturing Powerhouse and Innovation Hub
    Osaka’s economic prowess was highlighted by Ms. Mayu Katakabe, Deputy Director General of Commerce, Industry, and Labor. The prefecture boasts 1.5 times more manufacturing establishments than Tokyo and 2.4 times higher shipment values, with particular strength in carbon neutrality and life sciences.

    Furthermore, the region leads carbon neutrality initiatives through collaboration among large corporations, SMEs, universities, and research institutes, hosting advanced technology development in hydrogen and storage batteries, including R&D centers for next-generation solid-state batteries. “We aim to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 through cutting-edge technologies and collaboration with private companies,” Katakabe explained.

    Building on its heritage as a “town of medicine” and home to major pharmaceutical companies like Takeda and Shionogi, Osaka’s life sciences sector thrives through three major innovation hubs: Saito, Kento, and Nakanoshima Qross. The latter, opened in June 2024, creates a unique ecosystem where medical institutions, research institutes, companies, startups, academia, and the PMDA collaborate under one roof.

    Osaka is designated as a global startup hub city, alongside Kyoto and Kobe, and has fostered 128 university-originated startups in Osaka Prefecture. “By promoting cooperation with universities like Kyoto University and Osaka University, we are aiming to produce many active world-class startups from Osaka and Kansai,” Katakabe noted.

    Building Global Financial City Osaka
    Mr. Tetsuya Sakamoto, Senior Executive Director of Global Financial City Osaka, traced the region’s rich financial heritage: “About 400 years ago, the Nakanoshima area was Japan’s Wall Street, where rice markets, gold exchanges, and financial institutions were concentrated.” This history includes establishing the world’s first futures exchange in 1730.

    Governor Yoshimura’s Global Financial City initiative, launched in 2020, aims to develop Osaka as both a global city through finance and a frontrunner in financial innovation. The prefecture offers significant incentives, including zero corporate inhabitant and enterprise taxes for up to 10 years for foreign financial companies.

    “By attracting human resources, companies, and funds from home and abroad, we aim to foster next-generation industries through new technologies and innovations,” Sakamoto explained.

    Already, 22 financial companies, including BainCapital and Morgan Stanley MUFG, have established operations in Osaka. The prefecture’s designation as a special zone for finance and asset management businesses in June 2024 further reduces entry barriers through regulatory reforms aligned with global standards.

    Advanced Medical Innovation at Nakanoshima Qross
    Nakanoshima Qross was showcased as the centerpiece of Osaka’s medical innovation during the tour. This groundbreaking hub unites medical institutions, companies, startups, and support organisations under the Future Medicine Promotion Organization’s operation. The facility comprises three integrated centers – the Future Medicine MED Center, Future Medicine R&D Center, and Nakanoshima International Forum – designed to “practice,” “create,” and “share” future medicine.

    Dr. Masakazu Yagi and Dr. Kouichi Hasegawa demonstrated cutting-edge healthcare innovations, including an iPS cell-derived cardiomyocyte technology featuring a beating heart tissue patch. The CiRA Foundation’s presentation of automated iPS cell production technology showcased advances that have significantly reduced production costs and time, positioning Osaka at the forefront of regenerative medicine and genomic medicine.

    Gateway to International Visitors
    Kansai International Airport’s Terminal 1 Innovation Project, presented by Co-CEO Benoit Rulleau, will expand international passenger capacity from 12 million to 30 million annually. The upgrade includes Japan’s first walkthrough duty-free area and enhanced security systems processing 500 passengers per hour per lane. “We are getting ready for the Expo, not only for the traffic that we’ll have at that time, but also to welcome foreign dignitaries,” Rulleau noted, anticipating visits from prime ministers, government heads, and corporate CEOs.

    Osaka’s Vision for Global Leadership
    As Japan’s historically open commercial center, Osaka continues its tradition of international engagement while positioning itself as a premier global hub. The prefecture’s comprehensive development approach combines manufacturing prowess, technological innovation, financial services, and infrastructure development into a cohesive ecosystem for global business and innovation.

    Why OSAKA? Governor Yoshimura Explains the Five Strategic Advantages
    Governor Yoshimura’s presentation detailed Osaka’s five strategic advantages, captured in the acronym “OSAKA”

    • OPENNESS: A rich history of international commerce and collaboration
    • SMART INVESTMENT: Cost-effective business environment offering affordable office space and high-quality talent compared to other Asian cities
    • ACCESSIBILITY: Strategic gateway connecting 76 cities worldwide through a 24/7 international airport
    • KEY TO JAPAN: Future growth engine hosting EXPO 2025
    • ASSISTANCE: Comprehensive support through the Osaka Business and Investment Center (O-BIC) and one-stop consultation services
  • De Beers Group confirms diamond partnership for the next generation

    De Beers Group confirms diamond partnership for the next generation

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

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

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

    In summary, the formal agreements represent:

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

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

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

    4 biggest mistakes drivers make after an accident and how to avoid them

    Road accidents continue to be a major concern in Malaysia. Between January and October 2024 alone, Malaysia recorded over 530,000 road accidents, resulting in 5,364 fatalities. If this trend continues, the total number of accidents could surpass the 598,635 accidents reported in 2023.

    Given these alarming statistics, knowing what to do after an accident can make a significant difference. Being prepared helps prevent unnecessary stress, ensures a smoother claims process, and protects your rights.

    On that note, Liberty General Insurance would like to share the four biggest mistakes drivers make after an accident.

    Mistake 1: Failing to Contact Their Insurer First
    Delayed notification makes it difficult to verify accident details and increases the risk of penalties for late reporting to authorities.

    Mistake 2: Engaging Accident Touts / Towing Syndicates / Unscrupulous Middlemen
    Falling for persuasive talk and authorising unethical operators to handle their vehicle which leads to complicated procedures, inflated costs, and substandard repairs.

    Mistake 3: Forgetting to Collect Key Evidence
    Photos of the scene, third-party information, witness details, and vehicle damage are essential but often overlooked in chaos following an accident.

    Mistake 4: Providing Conflicting Statements and Admitting Fault Too Quickly
    In the aftermath of an accident, confusion can lead to inconsistent accounts given to the insurer, police, or medical professionals. These inconsistencies can contribute to guilt or nervousness and often lead drivers to admit faults prematurely.

    The mistakes above can negatively impact your claim, reducing your compensation or even voiding your coverage.

    So, what to do after an accident?

    1. Don’t Panic: Stay calm and contact your insurer immediately for hassle-free roadside assistance services.
    2. Beware of Unauthorised Tow Trucks & Middlemen: Only engage approved towing services to avoid unnecessary complications.
    3. Gather Evidence: Take photos, note details, and collect witness statements.
    4. Opt for Insurer-Approved Repairs: This ensures guaranteed workmanship and warranty for your vehicle.
    5. File a Police Report Promptly: Reporting the accident within 24 hours helps ensure a smooth claims process and prevents potential disputes.

    Managing the Aftermath with Confidence

    Navigating an accident can be overwhelming, but with Liberty General Insurance’s Vehicle Accident Management (VAM), the process becomes much simpler. As part of Liberty’s Motor Claims Service, VAM ensures fast, efficient claims handling—from damage assessment to resolution—so you experience less stress and fewer delays.

    Here’s how Liberty’s claim centre can help simplify the claims process:

    1. Authorised Towing Services: Safe, reliable, and insurer-approved towing to the assessment centre or preferred repairers.
    2. On-the-Spot Damage Assessments for Third-Party Property Damage (TPPD) Claims: Third-party claimants can now bring their vehicles to Liberty’s Vehicle Assessment Center for immediate assessment of damages.
    3. Fast-Tracked Third-Party Claims: Liberty’s experienced loss adjusters will assess damages on-site and determine repair costs without delays. It also reduces waiting time where third-party claims can be attended to immediately.
    4. Instant Windscreen Repairs & Replacements: On-site specialists provide same-day repairs or replacements, as well as quick inspection, documentation, and processing to minimise disruptions.
    5. Expert Repairs: Repairs at insurer-approved workshops with guaranteed workmanship and warranty.
    6. Faster Approvals & Transparent Claims Process: Advanced claim assessment tools help expedite approvals for various motor claims, including Own Damage, Express Claims, Third-Party Property Damage (TPPD), and Windscreen Claims. There will also be expert guidance to prevent unnecessary admissions or complications during the claims process.

    Being prepared and taking the right steps after an accident can make a huge difference in ensuring a smooth resolution. Staying calm, gathering evidence, and working with trusted service providers can help protect your interests and speed up the recovery process.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tealive partners with Devyani International Limited

    Tealive partners with Devyani International Limited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • 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.