Inovatif

Category: sustainability

  • ICAEW partners SC to strengthen expertise in sustainability disclosures

    The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) have initiated a collaboration through a Letter of Intent to collaborate in certain areas.

    This collaboration focuses on capacity-building, with ICAEW providing specialised training on climate-related financial disclosures, the provision of a programme to obtain Sustainability Certifications, the use of ICAEW training films and other areas.

    As part of this initiative, ICAEW conducted a workshop  at the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum (ACMF) Chairs Meeting in Penang.

    This workshop covered key sustainability disclosure requirements and regulatory best practices, including

    • IFRS S1 and S2 standards for climate and sustainability-related disclosures
    • Scope 3 emissions reporting and measurement challenges
    • The impact of global climate regulations, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
    • The role of regulators in sustainability policy and stakeholder engagement

    This collaboration is timely as Malaysia has assumed the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” With global ESG standards evolving, equipping regulators with the right expertise is crucial.

    ICAEW Chief Executive Alan Vallance welcomed this milestone, stating, “Trust, ethics, and sustainability must be at the core of capital markets. Sustainability is not just about compliance—it is a business imperative that drives resilience, innovation, and long-term success. Through this collaboration with the Securities Commission Malaysia, ICAEW reaffirms its commitment to strengthening regulatory expertise in sustainability across ASEAN.”

    “This collaboration will equip regulators with the tools and insights needed to align with global ESG standards while ensuring that regulation remains supportive, not punitive. By fostering capacity-building, knowledge-sharing, and sustainable finance innovation, we can work together to build an interconnected, inclusive, and resilient ASEAN capital market.”

    Echoing this sentiment, SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi, highlighted the need to upskill regulators: “Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 presents an opportunity to drive sustainability and financial resilience. Our collaboration with ICAEW ensures we stay ahead of global standards while equipping regulators to support market participants. Together, we can strengthen ASEAN’s capital markets and investor confidence,” he said.

    As ICAEW continues to champion sustainability and professional excellence worldwide, this partnership exemplifies its role in empowering financial professionals, policymakers, and regulators with the tools needed to drive meaningful change. Find out more at https://www.icaew.com/technical/sustainability

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • FWD Insurance and Arus Academy launch financial literacy programme

    FWD Insurance and Arus Academy launch financial literacy programme

    FWD Insurance Berhad (“FWD Insurance”) partners with Arus Academy to empower university students through the Fun(d) for Life – University Edition (FFL Uni) programme. This initiative aims to equip 500 local university students with essential financial skills through a 3-month curriculum that includes training, coaching, and community service.

    “At FWD Insurance, financial literacy is something very dear to our hearts, recognising it as a fundamental skill everyone should have. Through this programme, we go beyond education by offering a holistic approach that not only equips young people with the skills to manage their finance, but also provides them with the resources to put their learning into practice,” said Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Insurance. “By investing in their growth, we empower individuals and cultivate a financially literate society, driving Malaysia’s economic progress.”

    “The Fun(d) for Life – University Edition programme equips university students with the financial skills and autonomy to make informed decisions about their futures,” said Alina Amir, CEO and Co-Founder of Arus Academy. “University students are at a pivotal stage of their lives, where building strong financial habits can significantly shape their future careers and personal goals.”

    The 3-month FFL Uni programme begins with a 3-day immersive bootcamp focused on setting financial goals, budgeting, and creating comprehensive financial plans, including savings, protection, and investments. Over the course of the programme, students will receive ongoing coaching and mentoring, alongside tools to track expenses, reflect on their financial habits, and develop actionable financial plans. Participants will also document their journey through weekly diaries to raise awareness about financial literacy.

    A significant component of the initiative includes eight hours of community service, where participants teach financial literacy to at least 20 peers. By the programme’s end, each participant will receive a meaningful RM3,000 grant, deposited into their savings accounts or as fixed deposits, to support their financial goals and foster long-term independence. With an anticipated reach of over 10,000 beneficiaries through direct engagement and community service, the initiative reinforces Malaysia’s vision of fostering a financially literate, resilient, and economically inclusive society.

    Aligned with FWD Insurance’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals to uplift communities, the program seamlessly blends Arus Academy’s innovative teaching methods with FWD Insurance’s dedication to financial inclusion, working hand-in-hand towards a common goal of nurturing a financially savvy generation. By reaching tertiary students, FFL Uni is broadening its impact on youth of all ages, promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future nationwide. Previously, a collaboration between Arus Academy and FWD Takaful Berhad benefited over 47,108 primary and secondary school students from January to December 2024 through comprehensive financial education initiatives, featuring interactive learning portals, financial literacy camps, and design-focused events in 2024.

    The first cohort, comprising 50 students, will begin in February 2025. Interested applicants can submit their application requests to https://arus.cc/FFLUni-registration-of-interest-2025. For more information, visit https://www.instagram.com/fundforlife_uni/.

     

  • TCS Global Study: 64% of consumers likely to choose EV

    TCS Global Study: 64% of consumers likely to choose EV

    A new study by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS), reveals that more than six out of 10 (64%) consumers are likely or very likely to consider an electric vehicle (EV) for their next purchase. The TCS Future-Ready eMobility Study 2025, a comprehensive report on how EVs are shaping the future of sustainable mobility, also highlights that while 60% of consumers said charging infrastructure was a major challenge, 56% were ready to pay up to $40K for an EV.

    This study surveyed over 1,300 anonymous respondents across North America (USA, Canada), United Kingdom & Ireland, Continental Europe (Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland) and APAC (China, India, Japan, ANZ). The respondents for the survey included transport manufacturers, charging infrastructure players, fleet adopters, consumers and EV adoption influencers.

    Sustainability and lower operational costs were key factors driving EV adoption, according to the study. While consumers and influencers highlighted a clear motivation for EV adoption as ‘environmental sustainability’, the environmental benefits did not match the expectations of many EV influencers. Nearly 48% EV influencers said EVs increase the overall carbon output just as much as they reduce it, with 10% even saying EV adoption is negatively impacting the environment. Commercial fleets maintain a positive outlook towards electric mobility, with a sizable percentage—53%—pointing to reducing operational costs as a primary motivation. Fleet adopters were willing to pay a premium for EVs than for traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

    Despite the growing interest in EVs among consumers, significant challenges remain, particularly in the areas of charging infrastructure and technological advancements. While 74% of EV manufacturers said the lack of appropriate charging infrastructure remains the biggest obstacle limiting growth in the EV market, 55% have already started investing in innovation for battery technology advancements. Nearly 78% are making investments to reduce vehicle costs to cater to growing demand for EVs.

    Anupam Singhal, President, Manufacturing, TCS, said, “The EV industry is at a defining crossroad, navigating the complexities of scale and transformation. While nearly two-thirds of consumers are open to choosing electric for their next vehicle, manufacturers face challenges like advancing battery technology, complex vehicle designs, and production economics. At TCS, our Future-Ready Mobility vision focuses on creating an interconnected ecosystem powered by AI and Gen AI to drive smarter decision-making, enhanced customer experiences, and deliver scalable, sustainable solutions. By addressing these critical challenges, we are accelerating the global shift toward electrified and sustainable transportation.”

    The survey indicates that 90% of manufacturers believe that improvements in battery technology will enhance range and charging speed and will significantly impact the design and performance of EVs in the near term compared to other technological advancements.

    Key results from the survey, which can be found at TCS Future-Ready eMobility Study 2025, include-

    • 90% EV manufacturers and 84% of EV Influencers said battery technology improvements to optimise range and charging speed will have a large impact on design and performance of EVs
    • 74% of manufacturers believed charging infrastructure remains the biggest obstacle limiting EV market growth
    • 72% of EV charging infrastructure players are expecting significant mergers in the EV space driven by financial viability and scaling challenges
    • 41% consumers said that an acceptable EV range on a single charge is 200-300 miles, followed by 31% respondents who felt 300-400 miles is a better deal
    • 63% EV influencers said their primary motivation for EV adoption is to achieve net-zero goals and reduce carbon footprint
    • 55% of EV manufacturers are investing in R&D for battery technology advancements, while 78% are investing in vehicle cost reduction
    • 72% US consumers are likely or very likely to purchase an EV as their next vehicle, compared to less than 31% of Japanese consumers

    In a world quickly moving towards electric mobility, TCS’ vision for future-ready mobility combines technological innovation, strategic collaboration, and deep expertise to empower manufacturers and EV stakeholders to navigate change. TCS drives change across the mobility value chain, from vehicle design and gigafactory planning to digital platforms, generative AI, and personalised customer experiences. Focused on sustainable mobility and measurable value, it partners with customers to shape a bold, sustainable future.

  • 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.

  • Bursa Malaysia seeks public feedback on review of depository rules relating to electronic securities account statements

    Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia” or “the Exchange”) today issued a consultation paper seeking public feedback on the proposed amendments to the Rules of Bursa Malaysia Depository Sdn Bhd (“Depository”). These amendments aim to facilitate Bursa Malaysia’s move towards embracing further digitisation in the issuance of securities account statements to depositors (“CDS statements”), as part of the Exchange’s broader commitment toward environmental sustainability.

    The amendments propose making CDS statements available through the MyBURSA portal for greater accessibility and convenience for all depositors. Hard copy CDS statements will still be made available, at a fee, or under exceptional circumstances to specified depositors0F1 who demonstrate a clear need for such arrangement.

    Additionally, the proposed amendments require all issuers whose securities remain deposited with the Depository to keep their information up to date, and all parties subject to the Depository Rules to provide accurate and complete information to the Depository. These requirements are crucial to ensure the highest standard of data integrity and transparency.

    The proposed amendments above are part of the Exchange’s ongoing commitment to enhance operational efficiencies and sustainable practices, while ensuring that the Depository Rules remain fit for purpose in serving the needs of investors and stakeholders.

    Further details on the consultation paper and the proposed amendments are available at https://www.bursamalaysia.com/regulation/public_consultation.

    The Exchange welcomes views and feedback from the public on the proposed amendments above. Interested parties are invited to submit their comments to Bursa Malaysia by 14 February 2025.

  • AC Ventures and Deloitte release 2024 Impact Report

    AC Ventures, a leading Southeast Asian venture capital firm, has officially released its 2024 Impact Report, titled “Accelerating Impact into New Heights.” Developed in collaboration with Deloitte in Indonesia, the report underscores AC Ventures’ commitment to fostering innovation, advancing sustainability, and driving meaningful change across Indonesia and the broader region. Covering the firm’s achievements and progress, the report offers an in-depth exploration of AC Ventures’ contributions across three core pillars: economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

    Helen Wong, Managing Partner at AC Ventures, stated, “At AC Ventures, we firmly believe venture capital has the power to transform industries and lives for the better. This report highlights how our portfolio companies are championing innovation while making a tangible impact and fighting climate change. From empowering communities to accelerating sustainability, our mission is to build a future where businesses thrive alongside an inclusive society and a sustainable environment.”

    The Impact Report highlights AC Ventures’ ongoing commitment to drive positive outcomes. Over 30,000 direct jobs were created by AC Ventures-backed companies, empowering more than four million individuals and businesses through digital tools and financial inclusion. 40% of these companies are led or co-led by women, advancing gender equity in Southeast Asia. Companies like Supermom are actively bridging opportunity gaps.

    Sustainability is a core focus of AC Ventures’ investment strategy. The firm’s climate-tech portfolio companies have been instrumental in accelerating environmental impact. These companies have collectively reduced and avoided more than four million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Accacia, a leader in decarbonizing the real estate sector, helped its clients cut 3.5 million metric tons of CO2, while Xurya’s rooftop solar energy solutions prevented over 1.1 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Xurya has generated over 1.18 billion kWh of renewable energy through solar projects, helping to significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels across Indonesia. ASTRO recycled over 166 tons of cardboard packaging in collaboration with local vendors, and Fore Coffee reduced its plastic bag usage by 77%, recycling nearly one ton of cups across its stores.

    Deloitte, which played a key role in guiding the development of the report, emphasised its importance as a tool for transparency and progress. Imelda M. Orbito, Director at PT Deloitte Konsultan Indonesia, and also serves as an expert in Sustainability and Climate Change said, “An Impact Report is more than just a set of metrics—it tells the story of an organisation’s journey toward positive transformation.

    As AC Ventures looks to the future, the firm remains committed to strong governance and advancing gender diversity within its investment strategy. Looking ahead, AC Ventures is focused on accelerating innovation, championing sustainable growth, and driving measurable impact across Southeast Asia.
    Download the full playbook via: https://acv.vc/resources/acv-impact-report-2024/