Inovatif

Category: News & Events

  • Barry Callebaut and Maersk opens one of Asia Pacific’s largest cocoa bean warehouses

    Barry Callebaut and Maersk opens one of Asia Pacific’s largest cocoa bean warehouses

    Barry Callebaut Group, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa solutions, and A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk), an integrated logistics company, proudly celebrate the official opening of their Built-To-Suit cocoa bean warehouse in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. The two companies had entered into a decade-long partnership in 2023 to build and operate this facility.

    This is the first multi-storey ramp-up facility in Pasir Gudang, built specifically to store cocoa beans. Spanning over 600,000 square feet, this makes it one of the largest cocoa bean storage facilities in the Asia Pacific region. With a capacity to hold nearly 40,000 MT of cocoa beans, the warehouse is purpose-built to support an integrated supply chain and designed for operational efficiency and responsiveness. It is fully equipped with advanced technology including Maersk’s latest Warehouse Management System, which enables real-time inventory tracking, optimized workflows and enhanced data visibility. It also contains features such as LED lighting, and natural ventilation to reduce energy use.

    “This new facility is aligned with the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, and the Malaysian Cocoa Board national agenda, to strengthen the Agri-commodity sector in this region. It is to sustain our momentum, boosting competitiveness, and reinforcing Malaysia’s stature on the global cocoa map,” said Datuk Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, Director General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board.

    Strategically located near the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, one of Malaysia’s key maritime gateways, and just one kilometer from Barry Callebaut’s cocoa processing factory in Pasir Gudang, the facility is ideally positioned to support both regional and global supply chains. It will serve as a key storage hub for cocoa beans sourced from around the world, including Africa, Latin America, and Asia, supporting the growth ambition of Barry Callebaut to satisfy customers requirements across Asia and beyond.

    “This facility is a game-changer for our supply chain in Asia Pacific,” said Alain Freymond, President, Global Cocoa at Barry Callebaut. “In today’s environment, where managing the cocoa value chain has become more critical than ever, it gives us greater control over bean quality and enhances our ability to serve customers across the region with speed and precision. Our partnership with Maersk continues to grow, and this warehouse reflects our shared commitment to building a resilient and future-ready logistics network.”

    Since 2022, Maersk has supported Barry Callebaut’s supply chain from cocoa-growing origins globally to processing sites in Asia Pacific through integrated ocean and landside logistics services. In Malaysia, this includes the import of cocoa beans via shipping through the Port of Tanjung Pelepas and trucking services between the port and the warehouse.

    Ditlev Blicher, President Asia Pacific at Maersk, commented, “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of Barry Callebaut’s new warehouse in Malaysia. Our end-to-end logistics solutions are designed to empower Barry Callebaut with greater supply chain visibility, efficiency, and control—helping them respond faster to market needs and deliver outstanding service to their customers. We look forward to growing together and supporting their continued success with innovative, reliable logistics.”

    The official opening ceremony of one of the largest cocoa bean warehouses in Asia Pacific brought together leaders from both organisations, local stakeholders, and partners to celebrate this milestone and reaffirm their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and growth in the region.

  • Xero and RHB launch real-time financial data integration

    Xero and RHB launch real-time financial data integration

    Global small business platform, Xero and RHB Banking Group (RHB) have partnered to provide Malaysia’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with seamless daily access to financial data through a fully digital API-enabled bank feed.

    The integration enables SMEs to automatically and securely import data from their RHB bank accounts into Xero each day – thus reducing the need for manual uploads and data entry, lowering the risk of errors and saving valuable time reconciling transactions. With an accurate daily view of their cash flow within Xero, SME owners will gain deeper insight into their business performance, enabling them to make better-informed decisions that drive growth.

    “We know running a business is challenging, and our goal is to make it simpler. By connecting RHB’s banking services directly with Xero’s platform, we’re eliminating time-consuming manual data entry and giving business owners a clear, real-time view of their finances. This is about more than efficiency — it’s about empowering SMEs with the confidence and insights to grow, create jobs, and strengthen Malaysia’s economy. Together, we’re helping drive the digitalisation of Malaysian SMEs and building an ecosystem where they can thrive,” said Koren Wines, Managing Director of Xero Asia.

    “RHB is committed to supporting the growth of our SME customers through a connected ecosystem of simple, seamless banking experiences,” said Nurjesmi Mohd Nashir, Managing Director of Group Wholesale Banking, RHB Bank. “We aim to help our customers operate more efficiently with services and tools that streamline financial management. This new bank feed that integrates directly with Xero enhances visibility and control. This helps our customers to make informed decisions and empower them to grow their businesses with greater confidence over the long term.”

    The Xero-RHB Bank feed is currently in beta testing and will be available to all Malaysian Xero users with an RHB bank account in August 2025. It will be offered at no additional cost, with a seamless and fully digital setup process.

  • Manulife and Bank of China Malaysia launch global income fund to strengthen retirement readiness

    Manulife and Bank of China Malaysia launch global income fund to strengthen retirement readiness

    Financial wellbeing is increasingly recognised as a key pillar of long-term health and longevity, with many acknowledging that financial fitness can significantly influence their quality of life as they age. In response to this growing awareness – and the pressing need to help investors in Malaysia better prepare for retirement – Manulife Investments and Bank of China (Malaysia) Berhad (BOCM) announced that they are offering BOCM clients the Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund (the Fund). The Fund invests at least 85% of its net asset value into the Manulife Global Fund – Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund (the Target Fund).

    The Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund is suitable for investors who seek regular income, and wish to participate in a diversified portfolio of assets in the global markets, and have a medium to long-term investment horizon.

    A recent survey[1] conducted by Manulife revealed that only 58% of Malaysians believe they have sufficient funds for retirement – raising concerns that the remaining 42% may face health and longevity challenges post-retirement. Additionally, over half (56%) believe it is critical to have a steady income stream after retirement, while nearly one-third say a diversified investment portfolio helps bridge their financial gap.

    The Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund takes a differentiated approach to income generation, focusing less on equity appreciation and more on delivering yield through fixed income and an option writing strategy. A key feature of the strategy is the tactical use of option writing, which may provide a steady income stream in both rising and falling markets. Option premiums tend to increase with market volatility, making this approach particularly valuable during market downturns – when traditional capital payouts may be under pressure.

    Yan Ye, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCM, said “BOCM understands that the country will become an aged nation earlier than expected by 2040, with those who are 60 years old and above accounting for 17% of the population[2] . According to a public mandatory retirement scheme, most Malaysians do not have enough savings for their retirement. Therefore, planning for retirement should start early to enable individuals to adopt suitable strategy. As a financial service provider, BOCM provides banking solutions that bridge the financial needs of Malaysians. Leveraging the Fund’s objective and Manulife Investments’ fund management expertise over the years, we are onboarding the Fund on our platform to enhance the range of options available for our customers’ selection.”

    Grace Ho, Head of Retail Wealth Distribution and Direct Digital Business, Asia, Manulife Investments said: “We are pleased to offer the Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund to the valued customers of BOCM. Across Asia, we continue to see rising demand for income solutions that can help investors navigate longer lifespans, shifting retirement expectations, and evolving market conditions. Bringing this established strategy to Malaysia reflects our commitment to supporting local investors with proven, globally diversified approaches that align with their long-term financial goals.”

    BOCM customers can subscribe to the Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund through bank branches and mobile banking (eWealth Banking) platform.

  • RHB’s net profit up 7.0% to RM1.6 billion in 1H FY2025

    RHB’s net profit up 7.0% to RM1.6 billion in 1H FY2025

    RHB Bank Berhad (RHB or the Group) registered a net profit of RM1.6 billion in the first half of its financial year ending 31 December 2025 (1H FY2025), a 7.0% Y-o-Y increase, primarily driven by higher net fund-based income, disciplined credit cost management and improved credit quality, reflecting the Group’s strong fundamentals and prudent risk discipline.

    Total income expanded marginally at RM4.2 billion, mainly from higher net fund-based income but partially offset with contraction in non-fund based income. The Group maintained operational stability, supported by prudent cost management, continued strength in capital and liquidity positions. Cost growth was contained at 2.1% with CIR at 47.3%.

    Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, Group Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer of RHB Banking Group said, “The first half of 2025 was marked by global uncertainties and industry headwinds. Despite this, RHB remained resilient in delivering performance with sustained growth, lower ECL, and disciplined cost management. Our domestic loan growth tracked well with the industry, supported by sound asset quality. These results underscore our strength and position us well to capture new growth avenues in the months ahead.”

    “We remain focused on sharpening the execution of PROGRESS27, our three-year strategic roadmap. The recently concluded strategic bancassurance and bancatakaful partnerships reinforce our commitment to staying relevant to customers, diversifying income streams, and driving sustainable long-term growth. This is aligned to our strategic priorities, enabling us to deliver broader value for stakeholders, strengthen our non-interest income base, and unlock greater opportunities ahead,” added Dato’ Mohd Rashid.

    Strong Capital and Liquidity Position
    The Group’s total assets rose to RM354 billion, supported by healthy balance sheet growth and prudent capital management. Group shareholders’ equity stood at RM33 billion, with the Common Equity Tier-1 (CET-1) ratio of 15.9% and Total Capital Ratio (TCR) at 18.3%, reinforcing a strong capital position to support future growth ambitions while providing ample buffers against macroeconomic uncertainties. Whereas the Bank’s CET-1 and TCR stood at 14.6% and 17.4%, respectively. Loan loss coverage ratio including regulatory reserves, improved to 116.5%, reflecting sound provisioning practices.

    Domestic loan growth of 4.2% (annualised) tracking well against the industry’s 4.3%, while the Group’s GIL ratio contained at 1.51%, and the domestic GIL ratio was below the industry average, demonstrating sound credit quality.

    The Group has delivered RM48 billion in sustainable financial services, achieving more than half of its RM90 billion target for 2027. This underscores its commitment to sustainable financing and supporting the nation’s low-carbon transition agenda. Most recently, the Group partnered with Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) to activate the RHB-MRL 360⁰ ESG Finance Ecosystem, a first-of-its-kind sustainable financial value chain transition roadmap. Through this partnership, MRL has placed funds in RHB ESG Deposits to finance green and social projects, embedding sustainability into the core of banking while reinforcing the role of financial flows in driving climate resilience and inclusive economic growth.

    Outlook: Building on Momentum
    Looking ahead, Malaysia’s economy is projected to remain resilient, with strong domestic demand, growth in tourism activity, job creation, and sustained investment activity from both private and public sectors. The Government’s Ekonomi MADANI framework is key to guiding sustainable and inclusive growth, emphasising high value activities, fiscal consolidation, and social equity. Initiatives such as the Energy Transition Roadmap and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, alongside the steady rollout of structural reforms, are expected to further stimulate investment and economic growth. In this environment, the operating landscape remains conducive for the Group to pursue its growth ambitions under PROGRESS27.

  • Saudi commits to drive Malaysia’s visitor growth

    Saudi commits to drive Malaysia’s visitor growth

    Saudi’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ reinforced its commitment to the Malaysian market recently at its B2B trade show, where they hosted over 30 Saudi stakeholders and more than 150 local and regional trade partners to explore collaboration opportunities. The trade show garnered strong support from Saudi Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), airlines, and hotels as well as key local travel associations, such as Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) and Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association (MCTA) and The Association of Bumiputera Tourism Operators (BUMITRA). The aim was to expand tourism offerings, such as Umrah+ packages within Saudi, diverse leisure destinations, and innovative travel solutions designed for Malaysian travellers.

    “We are seeing growing interest from Malaysian visitors to Saudi beyond Umrah. As of June 2025, we’ve recorded a 9% increase in Malaysian visitors compared to 2024 and we are confidently on track to surpass 300,000 visitors by year-end. This robust growth highlights the rising demand among Malaysians to experience Saudi beyond its spiritual offerings, with destinations like the Saudi Red Sea, AlUla, Aseer, and Al Baha gaining popularity,” says Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority. “We are fully committed to working with our travel trade partners to develop tailored packages, promote leisure experiences, to sustain the momentum of this expanding and dynamic market.”

    To further enhance accessibility, Saudi showcased its unparalleled air connectivity, facilitated by SAUDIA, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Batik Air, Air Asia X, Air Arabia, to name few. These carriers collectively serve over 25 destinations across Saudi. The trade show also featured an array of B2B incentives and giveaways, designed to highlight Saudi’s accessibility and services:

    • Airline tickets: Including SAUDIA tickets from Kuala Lumpur to any part of Saudi, an AirAsia X return ticket to Medina, Air Arabia return tickets to Abha and Yanbu, and a grand prize of return Business Class tickets from Johor Bahru to Madinah with Amal by Malaysia Airlines.
    • Exclusive prizes: an Alif Dinar Gold Bar from WeXpress; a two-night stay in a five-star Riyadh hotel by Middle East Made Yours; a two-night stay at the Address Hotel Jabal Omar, Makkah; a complimentary 50-seater bus from Makkah to Ala Khutah (courtesy of Ala Khutah, a new Prophets’ Hijra route destination); two-night stays at Maysan Hotels in Makkah and Madinah; and a one-day Maybach chauffeur-driven tour in Riyadh with Talia Tourism.

    Innovative products and initiatives were presented to enhance travel experience and support agencies alike:

    • Aroya Cruises: Saudi-owned cruise liner, set to bring’ Malaysian passengers into Jeddah in 2026.
    • Touch ‘n Go partnership: Up to 5% cashback when using the TNG travel card in Saudi, plus a dedicated Saudi app-page with real-time Riyal conversion.
    • WeXpress collaboration: Streamlined logistics support for Umrah travellers.
    • VAT Tax Refund: The Saudi authorities have recently introduced new shopping incentives for travelers and tourists into Saudi Arabia, allowing them to get a tax refund upon spending more than SAR 500.

    Recognising the growing demand for diverse travel experiences, new and emerging destinations were introduced to cater to both Umrah+ and leisure travellers.

    • Our Habitas Hotel & Shaden Hotel in AlUla: Participation in Malaysia for the first time showed increasing interest in AlUla among travellers for both religious and leisure purposes. AlUla is becoming a more common destination for Umrah pilgrims, who are now including it in their itineraries for day trips or overnight stays.
    • Al Baha & Aseer (Abha): These newly introduced cool-weather highland escapes are positioned for year-round tourism.
    • Saudi Red Sea: An 1,800-kilometre stretch of pristine coastline split into three regions, where travelers can embark on truly unique adventures.
    • Ala Khutah: a journey 470 km long that follows the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad, retracing the historical route of the Hijrah from Mecca to Medina, and featuring 7 overnight stations and 41 historical sites.

    Furthermore, the Saudi Travel Fair will return in 2025 at IOI City Mall in Putrajaya in October featuring curated Umrah+ leisure packages in Saudi from selected travel agents.

  • RHB-OSK property partnership expands Malaysians’ access to prime overseas properties

    RHB-OSK property partnership expands Malaysians’ access to prime overseas properties

    RHB Banking Group (RHB or the Group) recently announced a strategic collaboration with OSK Property to offer Malaysians greater access to overseas residential properties through the launch of the RHB Overseas Property Financing solution. This offering debuts with Melbourne Square, OSK Property’s landmark development in Southbank, Melbourne, Australia.

    Melbourne Square is a mixed-use precinct offering spacious residences with panoramic city views, extensive green spaces, and convenient proximity to universities, retail hubs, and cultural attractions. This makes it an attractive choice for Malaysian seeking to secure an alternate residence with long-term capital appreciation.

    Under this strategic partnership, RHB Premier clients now access Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)-denominated full flexi housing loans for overseas residential properties in Australia. The RHB Overseas Property Financing solution, designed for Malaysians who are neither permanent residents nor citizens of Australia, is applicable for properties in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia (within a 30km radius of the Central Business District). The financing comes with flexible repayment terms, no-cost redraw facilities, and early release options during the construction phase.

    The financing solution is also applicable for properties in London, UK (Zones 1-3). This offering is part of the Group’s plan to expand its overseas property financing to key global cities, aligning with market trends and the aspirations of its Premier clients. The product’s features are designed for clients to manage foreign exchange exposure while complying with Bank Negara Malaysia’s regulations.

    Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, RHB Banking Group Managing Director / Group Chief Executive Officer said “RHB remains committed to being the trusted partner for our Premier clients as they diversify and expand their residential real estate portfolios beyond Malaysia’s borders. Property continues to be a time-tested, resilient asset class, offering long-term value and a natural hedge against inflation. Through this partnership with OSK Property, we are offering our clients with seamless financing solutions that enable them to confidently capitalise on premium overseas opportunities like Melbourne Square.”

    Ong Ju Yan, Group Managing Director, OSK Property Group, added, “RHB Bank has introduced an innovative and flexible financing product for Malaysians to acquire properties overseas. This unique product can help Malaysian investors and families to fulfil their dreams of owning a property in a prime location like Melbourne Square.”

    The partnership was launched at Beyond Borders: Australia Property Investment Outlook, an exclusive event that brought together property experts and investors. Dominic Heaton-Watson, Associate Director of the International Residential Property at Knight Frank Malaysia, delivered the keynote presentation, highlighting Melbourne’s robust economic fundamentals and rising popularity among buyers seeking property for their children’s education.

    RHB plans to expand its overseas property financing to include more Australian cities and outer zones of London, aligned with market trends and client needs. The RHB Premier proposition reinforces the Group’s commitment to delivering financial solutions that help clients grow their international real estate investments.

  • Alibaba Cloud is Selangor’s official cloud service provider

    Alibaba Cloud is Selangor’s official cloud service provider

    Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, has been officially recognised as one of the Cloud Service Provider (CSP) under the newly launched Selangor Multi-Cloud Services (SMC) — a strategic state initiative aimed at accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and driving digital transformation across Selangor.

    Spearheaded by Menteri Besar Selangor (Pemerbadanan) or MBI Selangor via its wholly owned subsidiary Smartsel Sdn Bhd (SMARTSEL), the SMC was launched at MBI Digital Innovation Day by Selangor Chief Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari. The initiative plays a central role in realising the state’s Smart Selangor ambitions under Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1) and the upcoming RS-2.

    As part of its collaboration, Alibaba Cloud, facilitated by its local partner VSTECS Bhd, will provide secure, scalable multi-cloud solutions to support digitalisation across government agencies and state-linked entities.

    “We are proud to be one of the official cloud service providers for the Selangor Multi-Cloud Services (SMC) to support the digitalisation for the state. Our collaboration with the MBI Selangor reflects a shared vision to create an inclusive, knowledge-driven digital economy. By combining Alibaba Cloud’s advanced technological capabilities with the state’s bold digital agenda, we aim to build a future where digital innovation is accessible to everyone, from public agencies to students and entrepreneurs,” said Kun Huang, General Manager of Malaysia, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence.

    In addition to cloud infrastructure, Alibaba Cloud is rolling out two key initiatives to promote broader AI literacy and accessibility; the Alibaba Cloud AI Toolkit and the “Celik AI Selangor” online learning programme — both designed to make AI technology more accessible to government agencies, educators, students, and grassroots communities.

    As part of its support for the SMC rollout, Alibaba Cloud also introduced its AI Toolkit — a comprehensive, all-in-one resource designed to equip users across various sectors with the tools and support needed to begin building AI applications with ease and at no upfront cost.
    Tailored to meet the diverse needs of startups, SMEs, students, educators, and enterprises, the AI Toolkit includes:

    • 1 Million Free Tokens per Model – Users receive up to 1 million free tokens across selected large language models (LLMs) via Alibaba Cloud Model Studio — ideal for prototyping, testing, and small-scale deployments.
    • Free Tier and Promotional Credits – New users can access complimentary computing, storage, API calls, and serverless inference through Alibaba Cloud’s Promo Center — enabling low-cost experimentation and development.
    • User-Friendly Tools and Learning Resources – The toolkit supports both technical and non-technical users with hands-on access to real-world tools and datasets, helping accelerate AI literacy and practical application. Free training is also available for non-technical users to understand core AI concepts and apply them to real-world challenges.

    In tandem with infrastructure support, Alibaba Cloud also introduced Celik AI Selangor — a new online learning platform created for rakyat of Selangor, the platform provides free access to:

    • Eight foundational AI and cloud computing courses curated to meet Malaysia’s public sector and grassroots needs
    • Alibaba Cloud certifications that can unlock further career and learning opportunities
    • Eligibility for government staff, educators, and students across Selangor

    The programme is designed to build foundational AI literacy, especially among youth, civil servants, and educators, empowering the rakyat to become active participants in Malaysia’s digital future.

    Through initiatives like the Selangor Multi-Cloud Services, Alibaba Cloud is deepening its role as a trusted partner in Malaysia’s digital ecosystem. Beyond delivering world-class infrastructure, it is also creating pathways for inclusive participation in the digital economy, advancing the nation’s journey toward a high-income, knowledge-based future.

  • FedEx’s intelligent AI-powered customs solutions to streamline global trade

    FedEx’s intelligent AI-powered customs solutions to streamline global trade

    Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) launches two AI-powered tools — Customs AI and the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Code Lookup Feature across Asia-Pacific (APAC) markets, designed to simplify the often-complex process of completing global shipping documents needed for international shipments, empowering businesses and individuals to ship with greater ease, accuracy, and confidence.

    Inaccurate shipping documentation continues to be a major challenge in global trade. To address this challenge, FedEx has integrated new tools into its FedEx Ship Manager™ platform at fedex.com, offering customers an intuitive solution to more seamlessly navigate shipment requirements.

    “At FedEx, we are driven by our commitment to delivering flexibility, efficiency, and intelligence for our customers,” said Salil Chari, senior vice president of marketing & customer experience for APAC at FedEx. “By leveraging advanced digital insights and intuitive tools, we’re empowering businesses with the agility to adapt, the efficiency to streamline operations, and the intelligence to make better decisions. These innovations not only simplify global trade but also enable our customers to grow their businesses with confidence in an ever-evolving marketplace.”

    The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Code Lookup Feature assists customers in their selection of correct HTS code for U.S. import clearance. Customers can input an item description, and the system will automatically suggest the most appropriate HTS code options, along with a confidence score, from which the customer can choose.

    Currently available in Australia, Guam, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Philippines, Customs AI leverages advanced generative AI technology to help simplify the shipment documentation process. By analyzing customer inputs in real time, the chatbot intelligently prompts the customer to provide a specific item description and assists customers in selecting the corresponding HTS codes, which can be applied directly to shipment documentation with a single click.

    Each suggested HTS code also includes a direct link to the official U.S. HTS tariff schedule, educating customers on the selection and ensuring full transparency and verification. The system is updated to maintain regulatory compliance in an evolving trade landscape, helping customers remain compliant with the latest customs requirements while saving valuable time and effort.

    Together, these tools deliver a unified solution that simplifies global trade by addressing key challenges in clearance. Customers may benefit from:

    1. Efficient Customs Clearance: The AI-powered chatbot dynamically tailors questions based on the item being shipped, guiding customers through a simplified documentation process that helps them provide complete and accurate data to brokers. This can help speed up clearance and drive compliance for U.S.-bound packages.
    2. More Accurate Duty & Tax Estimation: Proper HTS code classification enables more precise calculation of import duties and taxes, helping customers better forecast and manage international shipping expenses.
    3. Reduced Delays: Specific item descriptions and HTS code classifications from the outset significantly reduce the likelihood of shipments being held during customs clearance, supporting on-time delivery.
    4. Potential Cost Savings: By avoiding errors in documentation, customers can mitigate the risk of additional handling fees, penalties, or delays caused by non-compliance.

    To further support businesses in navigating evolving trade regulations, FedEx offers a range of customer-centric initiatives, including webinars designed to provide practical knowledge and insights on customs compliance and global shipping best practices. These webinars, combined with the robust FedEx suite of digital Import solutions such as the FedEx Import Tool and Collaborative Shipping Tool, empower businesses to adapt confidently to dynamic trade environments.

  • Bridge Data Centres partners with Johor Special Water for Malaysia’s first Water Reclamation Plant facility

    Bridge Data Centres partners with Johor Special Water for Malaysia’s first Water Reclamation Plant facility

    Bridge Data Centres (BDC), a leading regional provider of hyperscale data centre solutions, has partnered with Johor Special Water (JSW) to embark on Malaysia’s first Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) integrated within a data centre facility.

    The Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) is the first of its kind, repurposing treated effluent from a
    nearby Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) facility and converting it into high-grade reclaimed water
    suitable for data centre cooling.

    The plant applies advanced Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) and Reverse Osmosis (RO)
    technologies to deliver superior water recovery and quality. Located at the MY07 campus in Ulu
    Tiram, Johor, the initiative is an exciting step forward in aligning high-performance digital
    infrastructure with national sustainability goals.

    Mr Eric Fan, CEO of Bridge Data Centres, said the project demonstrates BDC’s commitment to
    environmental leadership and sustainable growth in Malaysia. “This is more than a technical
    achievement — it is an innovative response to growing industry demand for hyperscalers which
    vie for water resources. BDC’s investments in infrastructure and technologies in this plant are
    anchored on harvesting recycled water for industrial use instead of competing for potable water
    supplies”, said Mr Fan.

    The plant significantly reduces reliance on potable water and strengthens the long-term resilience
    of BDC’s operations, while supporting Johor’s broader environmental agenda. With cumulative
    investments in Johor exceeding billions, BDC’s facility in MY07 is designed to support up to over
    200MW of IT load across multiple phases and serves cloud providers, AI compute operators, and
    mission-critical enterprises across Southeast Asia. More than 200 skilled jobs in engineering, IT,
    and operations have been created as part of the MY07 development.

    Mr Fan added that the project was designed in full compliance with guidelines issued by the
    National Water Services Commission (SPAN), and that BDC worked closely with regulatory
    agencies, JSW, IWK, and Permodalan Darul Ta’zim (PDT) throughout the planning and execution
    phases.

    In addition to the Water Reclamation Plant, BDC’s broader water sustainability strategy includes
    rainwater harvesting, condensate recovery, and the exploration of alternative effluent sources to
    diversify supply and minimise environmental impact. The plant also features smart water metering
    for real-time monitoring, enabling a more efficient and measurable approach to water use.
    Currently in its final commissioning phase, the Water Reclamation Plant is expected to be fully
    operational by the fourth quarter of 2025. Test runs have already demonstrated water quality
    outputs that exceed industry standards.

    BDC’s initiative not only sets a new benchmark for sustainable data centre operations but also
    positions Johor as a rising hub for climate-conscious digital infrastructure in the region. As the
    demand for hyperscale capacity continues to grow, this model offers a blueprint for how the
    industry can address resource challenges through innovation and partnership.

    BDC currently has six data centres in operation or development across Malaysia.

  • foodpanda Malaysia launches nationwide rider safety programme

    foodpanda Malaysia launches nationwide rider safety programme

    foodpanda Malaysia launches pandasafe, a comprehensive and long-term safety initiative designed to protect and empower delivery partners through a comprehensive, long-term safety ecosystem across the country. This pioneering programme is the result of a strategic coalition with key public and private sector partners including Allianz Malaysia Berhad (Allianz Malaysia), Hong Leong Bank, PERKESO, and Hong Leong Yamaha Motor.

    The launch ceremony held at foodpanda’s headquarters, was officiated by YB Anthony Loke, Minister of Transport Malaysia. In his keynote, YB Anthony Loke lauded the programme as a proactive step forward in supporting Malaysia’s growing gig economy workforce.

    “The safety of our delivery partners must be treated as a national priority,” said YB Anthony Loke. “I applaud foodpanda and its partners for stepping up with a long-term, structured programme that goes beyond awareness. pandasafe sets a new benchmark for how companies can take responsibility in making our roads safer for gig workers.”

    More than just a campaign, pandasafe is a data-driven, multi-touchpoint safety ecosystem — combining education, technology, behavioural science, and financial literacy to build a long-term culture of road safety for delivery partners.

    According to Tan Ming Luk, Managing Director of foodpanda Malaysia, pandasafe is a permanent commitment to rider wellbeing, it is not a one-off initiative.

    “Our delivery partners are the heart of foodpanda,” said Tan Ming Luk. “Every safely completed order and every rider who gets home safely is a success. With pandasafe, we’re embedding safety into every aspect of our operations, every day. It’s not a seasonal campaign; it’s a permanent shift in how we operate. This is our commitment to our riders, their families, and the communities we serve.”

    Under the pandasafe initiative, foodpanda will roll out a range of integrated safety measures, including:

    • Structured rider training programmes focused on safe riding techniques
    • Telematics tools to help riders monitor and improve their riding habits
    • Road safety modules and first aid training, with Allianz Malaysia providing First Response and CPR training, equipping riders with the knowledge to act swiftly in emergencies
    • Social protection education and P-Hailing Safety Induction training, conducted in collaboration with PERKESO, ensuring riders are protected and informed under Malaysia’s safety net framework
    • Defensive riding techniques and braking skills training, supported by Hong Leong Yamaha Motor, enhancing rider control and road awareness
    • Financial literacy and financial safety programmes, led by Hong Leong Bank, to help riders manage their income, plan for the future, and achieve greater financial wellbeing

    These components are designed to work in tandem, creating a holistic framework that not only reduces risk but also builds long-term wellbeing for riders across the country.

    “Safety is not just a policy — it’s a culture,” added Tan. “And building that culture takes the right partnerships and the willingness to do things differently if it means ensuring our riders get home safely. That’s why this coalition matters.”

    With pandasafe, foodpanda Malaysia is setting a bold new precedent moving beyond awareness campaigns to a lasting culture of protection, empowerment, and accountability in the gig economy.