Inovatif

Category: News & Events

  • Chin Hin Group Property introduces Avalton By The Water

    Chin Hin Group Property introduces Avalton By The Water

    Chin Hin Group Property (CHGP) unveils Avalton By The Water during a special preview event at its new sales gallery, located in Jalan Bandar Hilir, Melaka. This marks CHGP’s first development preview of the year.

    Avalton By The Water is a resort-themed, luxurious development spanning 6.619 acres of leasehold land, facing Malacca Island. The project features 539 units across seven residential blocks—six low-rise and one mid-rise—and offers two layout types, each with three-bedroom options. Unit sizes range from 760 to 850 sq ft, with prices starting at RM508,000.

    With its contemporary design, Avalton By The Water offers an urban sanctuary surrounded by Melaka’s rich historical sites and coastal heritage. The development draws inspiration from the elegance and strength of flowing water, reflecting the beauty and energy of its waterfront setting.

    Ideally located at Jalan Melaka Raya 35, the development provides convenient access to major roads and is just 4 kilometres from Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal and 6.3 kilometres from Malacca International Airport. The North-South Highway is approximately 16 kilometres away, making Avalton By The Water a prime choice for future commutes. Popular tourist attractions, such as A Famosa, Jonker Street, Melaka River Cruise, and Little India, are also within close proximity.

    Avalton By The Water ensures exceptional convenience with easy access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and leisure spots. It is located near Mahkota Medical Centre, Melaka Hospital, and top schools such as JT International School, SMK Tinggi Melaka, and MMU University Malaysia. For shopping and entertainment, Aeon Mall Bandaraya Melaka, Mahkota Parade, Plaza Hang Tuah, and The Shore Shopping Gallery are all within arm’s length.

  • 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.

  • emart24 plans for 5 outlets to be certified halal each month

    emart24 plans for 5 outlets to be certified halal each month

    Popular Korean convenience store chain emart24 announces its plans to roll out five halal-certified outlets every month this year.

    In the recent halal certificate presentation event at emart24 e-kafe, Southville, CEO of emart24 Holdings Sdn Bhd, Vuitton Pang said that besides Southville, emart24 (e-kafé) at Vista Alam in Shah Alam has also received the halal certification by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM).

    “Meeting the needs of our customers has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Pang. “Securing halal certification is a significant step in our commitment to offering trusted, high-quality Korean street food that is Muslim-friendly.”

    Pang said that emart24 was giving priority to get all its current outlets certified halal. “With our internal processes and standard operating procedures already fine-tuned, we are primed to get five outlets certified halal each month. At this rate, we aim to completely get all the outlets certified halal by next year,” he added.

    Also at the ceremony was prominent religious scholar Ustaz Datuk Dr Hj Zahazan bin Mohamed who commended emart24’s unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of the Muslim community. “This halal certification of emart24 reflects its genuine dedication to meeting the highest standards of quality and hygiene while respecting the desires of Muslim consumers.”

    “I am certain this will further strengthen the trust and bond that emart24 has built up with its Muslim customers,” Datuk Dr Zahazan said.

    With over 80 outlets nationwide and over 800,000 monthly transactions, emart24’s halal-certified initiative further solidifies its position in the market, winning over a larger customer base with its adherence to the highest dietary guidelines and standards of halal compliance.

    To meet the rigorous standards of halal certification, emart24 has implemented strict supplier vetting processes, thorough cleanliness protocols, and stringent quality controls. Suppliers are required to submit documentation reviewed by halal executives, with details uploaded to JAKIM’s official portal.

    The certification process reinforces the company’s commitment to maintain the highest standards of compliance and transparency.

  • Corporate bond issuance climbs in 2024, MGS & GII moderate

    Corporate bond issuance swelled to RM124.2 billion in 2024, surpassing the previous year’s RM118.3 billion. The financial (RM51.7 billion) and real estate (RM19.9 billion) sectors continued to be the primary drivers of issuance, mirroring trends observed in 2023. RAM Ratings anticipate some of last year’s strength spilling over into 2025, seeing corporate bond issuance remaining healthy at RM110 billion-RM120 billion. Infrastructure financing and businesses’ funding needs should also support steady corporate bond issuance activity in 2025.

    Gross issuance of MGS and GII moderated to RM176.7 billion in 2024, down from the high of RM190.9 billion in 2023. Looking ahead, RAM Ratings project MGS and GII issuance to ease further to RM155 bil-RM165 billion in 2025. This takes into account the government’s narrower deficit financing requirement in line with its commitment to fiscal consolidation, as well as more moderate needs in the refinancing of debts maturing this year.

    The Malaysian bond market charted a more moderate foreign fund inflow of RM4.8 billion in 2024 (2023: inflow of RM23.6 billion), exacerbated by persistent bond market selloffs throughout most of the year amid heightened uncertainties over the US Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate outlook and the view that rate cuts might not be as forthcoming as initially expected. While the selloff eased towards year-end, the Fed’s less dovish stance and recent downgrade of its rate cut expectations in the December dot-plot suggest the lack of a catalyst in spurring foreign investor demand in 2025.

  • FedEx accelerates delivery of import shipments to Johor

    FedEx accelerates delivery of import shipments to Johor

    Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) is enhancing its inbound shipping service to better serve customers importing into Johor. Importers and local businesses can now receive their packages two hours earlier for inbound shipments from Asia, Europe, and the U.S.

    Import shipments are routed to the FedEx Gateway in Singapore before journeying to the FedEx Senai Gateway, offering customers the benefits of direct clearance at Senai customs. Previously, these shipments were routed through Kuala Lumpur before making a 300-kilometre trip to Senai for processing and delivery. This change is particularly beneficial for industries that rely heavily on timely imports, including manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce.

    “Improving the speed of our services is essential for businesses looking to thrive in today’s competitive environment,” said Tien Long Woon, managing director of FedEx Malaysia. “We understand that time is of the essence, and with faster delivery of imports, we are enhancing the efficiency of local businesses in Johor and improving their flexibility to better serve their own customers.”

    The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is poised to significantly enhance economic connectivity between Johor and Singapore, focusing on key sectors such as electronics, medical equipment, food manufacturing, and data center. In 2023, Johor’s economy demonstrated robust growth, with a 4.1% year-over-year increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), surpassing the national average of 3.6%. This growth was primarily driven by the services and manufacturing sectors contributing around 84% of Johor’s GDP. Additionally, Johor accounted for approximately 29% of Malaysia’s total trade in 2023, amounting to RM753.1 billion. The JS-SEZ initiative is expected to attract substantial foreign direct investment, create numerous job opportunities and further solidify Johor’s position as a key economic hub in the region.

    As Johor continues to grow as a key economic hub in Malaysia, FedEx remains dedicated to fostering local businesses’ success and contributing to the regions’ economic development. The accelerated delivery service is just one of many ways FedEx is working to drive growth for its customers.

  • 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.