Category: What’s News Asia

Crispy Chocolate, a popular Malaysian chocolate snack, which is marketed to 21 countries, is celebrating its 50^th anniversary.

To mark this historical milestone, the Network Foods Industries Group is launching a national roadshow that initially kicks off in the east coast States and Klang valley.

The Network Foods group is a member of the Pan Malaysia Corporation Berhad (PMC). Founded in 1973, Crispy Chocolate has withstood the test of time.  Its chocolatey crispy bite has been an unforgettable part of sweet memories for several Malaysian generations.

Commenting on Crispy Chocolate’s 50^th anniversary, PMC Executive Director, Andrew Khoo, said: “For a home-grown chocolate brand to celebrate this milestone is a very proud moment for us.  It is a testament to Crispy’s enduring brand value in a competitive field dominated by established international brands.

Khoo noted that, internationally, fewer than 10 chocolate brands have had a history of 50 years or longer.

Crispy chocolate owes its success to its unique malty taste made of the finest malt, quality cocoa and with oven-roasted rice cereal, making it not just another tasty snack, but wholesome as well.”

Network Foods asserts that Crispy chocolate is classified as a health snack containing low sugar content and dietary fibre.

As a testament to its healthful quality, Crispy Chocolate has won the Best Kid Snack in the Natural Health Readers’ Choice Award 2022 and the Cocoa Industry special award from the Malaysian Cocoa Board.  It is also certified by the Singapore Health Promotion Board in addition to being certified by Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) and Majlis Ulama Indonesia (MUI HALAL)

Capitalising on its popularity, the Crispy brand has recently launched the Crispy spreads for breakfast toasts and Crispy Popz malt balls for easy snacking.  The company has also created a Special Crispy Edition range that combines exciting unique Malaysian, Korean and Japanese-inspired flavours.  More line extensions of the Crispy range are being considered in future.

To learn more about Crispy Chocolate’s products and updates, visit its new Crispy website, https://crispychocolates.com, or follow their social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.

Talentbank, a national talent ecosystem enabler, proudly unveiled its groundbreaking National Graduate Employability Index (Talentbank’s GE Index) at the 6th Graduates’ Choice Award Presentation Gala, recently hosted at Sunway Resorts Hotel. This significant event, which drew around 1,000 esteemed attendees from leading multinational corporations and premier educational institutions, showcased a prominent gathering of leaders from both academia and industry. The attendees included vice-chancellors, deputy vice chancellors, registrars, career services practitioners, professors, and deans, among others, with a significant representation of 30 vice chancellors from higher education institutions across the country.

The GE Index, a pioneering initiative by Talentbank, aims to transform how the youths plan their careers and assist universities in tailoring curricula to meet evolving industry demands. This significant development was launched in the presence of esteemed guests: Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Dr. Haji Megat Sany bin Megat Ahmad Supian, Deputy Secretary General (Policy) of the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, and Yang Berusaha Professor Dr. Azlinda binti Azman, Director General of Higher Education, alongside Talentbank’s CEO, Ben Ho.

“Through the Talentbank’s GE Index, Talentbank is taking a significant step towards addressing graduate unemployment in Malaysia,” Ben Ho commented. “We believe in initiating career planning early in the educational journey, not just in the final university year. This proactive approach will enable students to make informed decisions about their education and future career paths, enhancing their career readiness upon graduation.”

Initiated in 2020, the Talentbank’s GE Index research is based on extensive surveys with top graduate employers, focusing on their university recruitment preferences. This three-year endeavour involved meticulous planning, comprehensive proof of concept development, and strategic market introduction to ensure the methodology’s validity and the results’ reliability. The insights from this process are crucial in evaluating how well universities prepare graduates for the job market.

Talentbank’s GE Index stands out as a comprehensive tool in assessing graduate employability across Malaysia. Employing a unique tripartite methodology, the GE Index provides a holistic view of how well universities are preparing their students for the workforce. This methodology includes three key aspects: firstly, identifying the universities that employers typically recruit from, secondly, quantifying the number of graduates hired from each university, and thirdly, evaluating the frequency of recurring hires based on positive performance. Far surpassing the scope of a mere survey, the GE Index serves as a vital career guide, strategically designed to reshape the way students approach their educational journeys. Its primary aim is to significantly reduce the rate of graduate unemployment in Malaysia, offering a proactive roadmap for students to align their education with real-world job market demands.

The event concluded with Ho and his team expressing their appreciation to the attendees and reaffirming their dedication to improving graduate employability in Malaysia.

Talentbank’s National Graduate Employability Index is an independent, apolitical centre of research and consultancy well versed in the graduate employability terrain. It evaluates thousands of leading graduate employers in key industry sectors to understand the employment trends amongst the graduates. Talentbank GE Index is focused on increasing the knowledge and practical experience to encourage better employability for the nation.

For more information about Talentbank’s National Graduate Employability Index, please visit https://www.talentbankgroup.com.

Beyond Insights, a key leader in stock market education, celebrates over a decade of commitment to building adept and resilient traders in navigating market volatility. This milestone anniversary highlights the company’s success in empowering a new generation of investors and traders, equipped to thrive in an evolving financial landscape.

The company attributes its sustainability to its 30-strong team of experienced coaches and trainers. More than just educators, these professionals are also active traders who practise the systems they teach. This real-life application enables them to effectively bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical trading skills. Hundreds of traders have found success through their guidance, benefitting from personalised coaching programs designed to accelerate development and deepen understanding.

Beyond Insights founder Kathlyn Toh reiterates the company’s commitment to empowering traders and investors to be versatile enough to navigate these fluctuations successfully. “We understand that volatility in the stock market is not a passing phase; it’s a constant. Our aim is to It’s not just about surviving the markets; it’s about thriving in them,” says Toh, adding that by building up their versatility in trading and preparing investors to adapt to the market confidently, the traders will not only be capable of handling volatility but can capitalise on the opportunities that arise.

The company’s comprehensive curriculum is strategically designed to cater to diverse trading objectives, markets, and timeframes. One of Beyond Insights’ focal areas is developing a deep, experiential understanding of what constitutes a good trading system and how it aligns with an individual’s trading style and goals. Students are encouraged to learn strategies of different time frames, and macro and industry trends affecting the market, and practise multiple trading systems under the structured guidance of experienced coaches, who provide invaluable feedback. Also offered are hands-on tutorials, supported by smart software applications that lay out the decision-making process. This holistic approach within an all-encompassing ecosystem beyond the traditional classroom ensures that traders are not just theoretically sound but also practically proficient.

“Just as megatrends like Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, cashless society, next generation broadband, and clean energy are unstoppable, they will carry the growth of the related industries. Therein lies the certainty for investors so long as they can identify the specific industry/company to invest in, understand the right timing for entry and exit, and perform the necessary risk management.”

While the combination of an all-rounded curriculum, experienced coaches and trainers, and a novel support system have been key differentiators for the industry leader, Beyond Insights takes it a step further with its well-researched and designed framework. It has continuously advocated a systematic approach to negate risks of stock market trading that has often been falsely and negatively compared to gambling, especially among the older generation. Since its founding, the company has made this subject a priority mission in spreading the right awareness to enlighten more people.

When it comes to volatility and uncertainty, Beyond Insights acknowledges that the stock market has exhibited this trend in recent times and is set to persist. Factors like political tension, regionally fought warfare, global technology warfare, as well as misinformation on social media and news outlets further compound the current complexity of the situation. Beyond Insights, however, opines that as volatility will continue to be an inherent aspect of financial markets, the important buffer lies in equipping traders to manage it effectively and with the right mindset.

As Beyond Insights moves into its next decade, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide the most comprehensive and effective trading education. It currently has 58.5k subscribers in its database, most of whom are Malaysians. They are constantly educated about safe and systematic approaches to investing and trading whether through e-newsletters or public seminars. According to established Malaysian brokerage firm Malacca Securities, the number of accounts for M+ Online (brokerage for Bursa Malaysia market) has increased 62.7% from quarter 2 to quarter 3 this year, and the number of shares traded have also increased 83.07% in the same period, underscoring the exponential rise of Malaysians’ participation in the market.

Since 2019, Beyond Insights has continually innovated and increased its investment not only on the human capital front but, also in technology resources through software application development. One of these applications is known as Beyond Insights Trade Simple (BiTS) that has a built-in journaling feature that enforces one of the critical disciplines for better stock market success. This tool feature allows users to record their decisions and mental state during the decision-making process, which serves as dashboard information for them to analyse and review to improve their performance in the long run. It has been designed such that it could even assist retail investors and traders to approach the market with acute professional know-how.

For more information about Beyond Insights and its programs, visit https://www.beyondinsights.net/.

 

The recently concluded fourth annual ShortStay Summit, a pivotal component of the Malaysia Digital Expo 2023 (MDX 2023), organised by HostAStay in collaboration with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), showcased the evolution of Malaysia’s digital landscape. The summit, held at the Connexion Conference and Event Center (CCEC), Bangsar South, on the 28th of October 2023, not only explored strategies for building a thriving digital nomad community but also unveiled exciting prospects for Malaysia in the global tech landscape.

This year’s summit marked a significant milestone with the inaugural DE Rantau Nomad Conference, a thought-provoking gathering that brought together industry leaders and digital nomads. The theme, ‘Building a Thriving Digital Nomad Community in Malaysia,’ provided a platform for diverse discussions led by inspiring speakers, including nomadic professionals and local entrepreneurs. The summit illuminated strategies and insights essential for nurturing a vibrant digital nomad ecosystem.

Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager for Airbnb in Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan, said, “The rise of remote work presents economies with immense new tourism potential. In Malaysia, long-term stay nights on Airbnb grew from 11.6% to 18.6% of total nights booked by international guests from 2019 to 2022. Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Johor Bahru were our top three destinations for long-term stays last year. We are excited to continue partnering with MDEC on the DE Rantau programme and welcome our Host community to the growing national ecosystem supporting digital nomads and remote workers. Airbnb will continue working hand in hand with the government to ensure that travellers can enjoy a variety of unique stays at different price points – be it for a digital nomad travelling solo for a month, or a family enjoying a local getaway.”

In tandem with the summit’s focus on the digital nomad lifestyle, the Malaysia Digital Expo 2023 (MDX 2023) was announced as a six-week-long empowerment platform. Positioned as a ‘Show and Tell’ extravaganza, MDX 2023, of which the ShortStay Summit is an integral part, aims to showcase Malaysia’s digital prowess on the global stage. This expo, a testament to Malaysia’s commitment to innovation, will not only elevate the nation’s digital ecosystem but also pave the way for businesses to expand into ASEAN and beyond.

Mahadhir Aziz,  MDEC’s CEO said,  “DE Rantau Programme’s aim is to create a vibrant ecosystem that supports the digital nomad lifestyle, with Hostastay playing a key role in establishing DE Rantau Hubs and developing the DE Rantau Platform, an exclusive lifestyle mobile app for DE Rantau members. The DE Rantau Programme aligns with the national strategic initiative, Malaysia Digital (MD) to transform the nation’s digital capabilities and boost the digital economy by laying the foundation for a dynamic and diverse community of professionals who see Malaysia as a home away from home.”

Alex Ha, the dedicated Chairman of EnE Foundation, has assumed the noble mission of extending the boundless advantages of the internet to distant and marginalised rural regions.

In doing so, he is not only paving the path for a profound digital revolution but also presenting an exciting opportunity to venture into the dynamic short-stay industry.

The summit was made possible with the support of sponsors including Airbnb, ENE Foundation, and MDEC, and featured international speakers from various industries alongside seasoned nomadic speakers, such as Lauren Razavi from Safety Wing, ChristenScalfano, a Travel Consultant & Digital Nomad Coach, and Chris Cerra, the founder of RemoteBase, moderating panel sessions.

Additionally, the summit networking night provided an opportunity to celebrate MAPLEHOME’s outstanding achievement in securing the title of “Largest Short-Stay Management Company Chain” from The Malaysia Book of Record.

Jordan Oon, Founder & CEO of HostAStay and Organizing Chairman of SSS 2023, expressed his enthusiasm for the future, stating, “We, as a team behind ShortStay Summit, will continue to champion the vibrancy of the short-stay industry. Our aim is to expand overseas and potentially host the next summit in other parts of Southeast Asia, uniting nomads from the region.”

The ShortStay Summit 2023, as part of the Malaysia Digital Expo 2023, not only celebrated the achievements of the short-stay industry in Malaysia but also set the stage for positioning the nation as a formidable player in the global digital landscape.

 

UEM Edgenta Berhad (“UEM Edgenta” or the “Company”), Malaysia’s foremost Asset Management & Infrastructure Solutions provider, is advancing its regional expansion strategy in the integrated facility management market within the Middle East. As part of this effort, the Company has recently formalised a definitive agreement with KAIZEN Group, further bolstering its presence in the region. In reaffirming its commitment to this strategic growth initiative, UEM Edgenta is also pleased to announce the exchange of three (3) separate Memorandum of Business Exploration (MOBE) with its partners; DISRUPT-X DMCC (Disrupt-X), ZAIN TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Zain Tech) and Tadoom.

Announced at the ongoing Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (“COP28”), the Company is delighted to declare the acquisition of a 60% stake in a distinguished tech-enabled property management services company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). KAIZEN Group has established an exemplary reputation for providing comprehensive services across the real estate value chain, encompassing Owners Association Management, Master Community Management, Development Project Management, Property & Leasing Management Advisory & Consultancy, as well as Handover & Snagging Services.

The combined strength of UEM Edgenta and KAIZEN Group, is poised to establish an integrated real estate services platform. This collaborative endeavor is dedicated to enhancing the delivery of integrated services and crafting bespoke lifestyle experiences, all underpinned by cutting-edge technology and sustainable solutions.

This acquisition will also facilitate the integration of Edgenta’s smart buildings, leveraging its Asseto SaaS platform, and incorporating sustainability solutions like Energy Efficiency, Energy Performance Contracts, and Green Building Initiatives. This strategic move addresses the growing demand for these solutions in the Middle East.

Syahrunizam Samsudin, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of UEM Edgenta said, “Having KAIZEN Group as part of UEM Edgenta represents a strategic move, capitalizing on the growth opportunities within the real estate sector. This is fueled by the Dubai Master Urban Plan 2040, which aims to create a well-being model, ultimately enhancing Dubai’s reputation as the premier city for quality living. This integration reinforces the presence of the UEM Edgenta in the Middle East, aligning seamlessly with our ‘Edgenta of the Future 2025’ vision. It expands our international footprint, which already spans Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia, the UAE, and KSA, while elevating our product and technology offerings in high-growth markets. This venture is a testament to our ongoing commitment to enriching lives and advancing infrastructure on a global scale, all while realizing forward-looking technology solutions in sustainable smart city development.”

“Our initiatives today are not just mere aspirations; we firmly believe they serve as a roadmap to a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous world. We regard data and AI, particularly in the context of Smart Cities, as the foundational elements in this transformative journey. Through their integration, we aspire to lead the way in establishing new industry standards, nurturing global collaboration, and ingraining ESG principles into the very essence of our Smart Cities operations,” added Syahrunizam.

In addition to the acquisition of KAIZEN Group, UEM Edgenta is delighted to announce the formalisation of a MOBE in partnership with Disrupt-X, Zain Tech and Tadoom. This strategic collaboration marks the commencement of a collective endeavor aimed at harnessing the combined expertise of all three (3) organisations. In alliance with Zain Tech and Tadoom, UEM Edgenta is embarking on dedicated initiatives in Oman and the broader Middle East region. Disrupt-X plays a pivotal role in this partnership with Zain and Tadoom, focusing on the development of smart cities and sustainability in the built environment by harnessing Internet of Things (IoT) and smart solutions at both the asset level and on a citywide scale.

These partnerships strengthens UEM Edgenta’s unwavering commitment to delivering innovative, technology-driven solutions within the real estate sector, and at the same time shaping a sustainable and technologically advanced future for the region.

Representing their respective organisations during the document exchange were Fadi Marwan Alnwilati Almasri, Chief Executive Officer, KAIZEN Group, Hany Hanna, Chief Executive Officer, Zain Tech and Abdullah Al Badi, Chief Executive Officer, Tadoom.

UEM Edgenta’s MD/CEO, Syahrunizam Samsudin was also interviewed by Reuters at the sidelines of the COP 28 event in Dubai. Keeping to the overall theme of COP28, he discussed how innovative technologies and green infrastructure are essential tools for asset management players like UEM Edgenta to contribute to climate goals. The video is accessible from the link below: [ https://www.reuters.com/plus/acumen-stories/cop-28/uem-edgenta ]

For further information on UEM Edgenta’s presence in the Middle East and its other initiatives, logon to https://www.uemedgenta.com.

 

Health and wellbeing company Amway, held an immersive health expo recently and drew a crowd of over 8,000 people, to embark the 90th-anniversary celebration for its Nutrilite brand of vitamins and dietary supplements.

In the early 1900s, Nutrilite founder Carl Rehnborg studied the health and wellness needs of people in Asia and recognized the significance of more plant-based food with the right nutrients and minerals for the human body. Backed by 90 years of science and research, Nutrilite is recognised as the only global vitamin and mineral brand to grow, harvest and process plants in its certified organic farms.¹

Amway’s goal of promoting well-being and encouraging people to live healthier is exemplified via the recently launched Nutrilite Gut Reset Health Management Programme which focuses on rebalancing the human gut microbiome. In a survey conducted with 1,045 Malaysian respondents, 63% reported that “Weight” is the top health concern/goal, followed by “Stress” (47%), “Sleep” (46%) and “Heart” (44%)².

The Nutrilite Gut Reset Health Management Programme helps prospects achieve their weight and fat loss goals through healthier nutrition, combined with supplement products to stimulate a healthier gut microbiome, more physical activity, sleep, mental health, and supportive communities.

Michael  Duong, Amway Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei Managing Director, said “The Nutrilite Gut Reset Health Management program starts with weight management goals, but we also offer individual health screening through an exclusive partnership with leading Malaysian diagnostic company Innoquest Pathology, to raise people’s awareness of their health factors and risks for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension, heart diseases, and diabetes.”

“Amway wholeheartedly supports the Malaysian government’s efforts to address the growing health crisis of NCDs, which are linked to 73% of adult deaths, by addressing the risk factors, encouraging greater health awareness & diagnosis, adoption of healthy lifestyles, and strengthening preventative care,” elaborated Michael.

A full download and guidance on the Gut Reset Weight Management programme can be clicked on here<https://amwaynow.my/en/articles/gut-reset-good-health-starts-from-your-gut-amwaynow> and here <https://www.amway.my/guthealth> for those keen to commence on a sustainable health journey by rebalancing the gut microbiome.

Dr. Sam Rehnborg, President of Nutrilite Health Institute (son of Nutrilite founder Carl Rehnborg), graced the expo to embark the year-long 90th-anniversary series of activities. Other guests-of-honour present at the event included Doug DeVos and Steve Van Andel,  Amway’s Co-Chairmen, the sons of Amway founders Rich DeVos and Jay Van Andel, respectively;  Milind Pant, Amway Chief Executive Officer, and Asha Gupta, Amway Asia Regional President, all of whom also participated in a special leadership rally for the Amway Business Owners.

Dr. Sam Rehnborg said, “Malaysia’s Gut Reset Health Management campaign is a significant milestone for Amway. It helps reinforce the Nutrilite brand’s global leadership position as we approach our 90^th anniversary next year. We wholeheartedly support initiatives that focus on the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and we are committed to making a positive impact on national health and wellbeing.” Learn more about the Nutrilite brand and its products at

Held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the Nutrilite Experience Day was packed with fun learning and interactive activities that included health talks by experts, Gut Reset testimonials sharing, and a journey into Nutrilite brand origins through a time tunnel. It was further enlivened by the exclusive attendance of Malaysia’s two athletes, national diver Nur Dhabitah Sabri and national shuttler Goh Sze Fei, who shared tips from their amazing journeys.

Michael Duong said, “Amway Malaysia will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, and we remain committed to our Nutrilite & Amway founders’ vision of Helping People Live Better, Healthier Lives, from helping people pursue financial well-being, personal growth, a healthy body, healthy mind, community connection, and contributing to environmental sustainability.”

 

Halal certified F&B manufacturer, Yeo’s Malaysia (Yeo’s), places high priority on its halal operations which plays a key role in growing its market and building customer confidence for its product range in Malaysia and beyond.

In addition to serving the Malaysian market, Yeo’s is also today an important manufacturing centre and global distributor to Indonesia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe, Indochina and the US, making it a leading F&B company with Malaysia’s halal certification for the international market.

Malaysia’s halal certification involves detailed governance. Brands must comply with the strict regulations set by the government halal authority, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).

According to Razana Mat Saad, Yeo’s Senior Manager, Halal Compliance, “We have in place a comprehensive and effective system that is fully compliant with JAKIM’s requirements.”

“We observe a strict Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and our Halal Assurance System (HAS) fully complies with the requirements under the Malaysia Halal Certification Procedure Manual (MPPHM) 2020 and the Malaysia Halal Management System (MHMS) 2020.”

“Strict halal regulations are observed across our premises and products. Our entire production chain, from sourcing up to manufacturing and packing, is compliant with the governing laws and regulations for halal certification.”

“This simply means that our raw materials, additives, processing aids, tools and equipment, and even our production system, product processing and the entire plant premises, all meet the stringent standards set by Jakim,” she emphasised.

Yeo’s also has a dedicated team trained under JAKIM’s Halal Professional Board through the initiative of the Registered Halal Providers and Registered Halal Instructors to constantly monitor and ensure the sustainability of its halal system through periodic internal audits and reviews.

“We work closely with JAKIM to ensure we maintain the integrity of our halal operations and they have always provided excellent support. We are also open to extending our collaboration with JAKIM or the State Department of Islamic Religion (JAIN) to organise halal awareness programmes to empower and strengthen consumer knowledge related to halal,” Razana shared.

Yeo’s has received recognised halal industry accolades over the years for diligent adherence to its halal policy.In 2009, Yeo’s was awarded ‘The Best Halal Brand’ for its outstanding halal practices, innovations, consistency and overall success. In 2018, it received the ‘BrandLaureate World Halal Best Brands Award’ in the FMCG Food & Beverage category.

Building consumer trust

JAKIM is Malaysia’s authoritative halal certification authority and the agency responsible for providing halal recognition to products and services produced by industries that meet the requirements or conditions outlined in the halal certification requirements and Malaysian Standards which are in effect.

“All food manufacturing businesses that apply for halal certification from JAKIM must comply with set regulations and religious dietary laws. Halal certification is important to build consumer trust and confidence in the quality and safety of the products they consume. Consumers can also check and verify the halal status of a product through an online platform provided by JAKIM such as Malaysia’s Official Halal Portal or JAKIM’s Mobile Applications such as Verify Halal and Smart Halal,” said Ustaz Mohamad Zamri bin Mohamed Shapik, Pengarah Bahagian Pengurusan Halal, JAKIM.

Ustaz Mohamad Zamri said JAKIM welcomes the commitment, support and cooperation provided by companies holding the Malaysian Halal Certification to always ensure a high level of compliance in order to ensure that the halal regulatory ecosystem is always trusted and becomes a world reference.

The  government aims to become the global halal market leader by 2025 with an export value of RM63.1 billion while leveraging on the worldwide halal market which is estimated to surpass US$1 trillion (RM4.68 trillion) next year. This is expected to elevate Malaysia’s internationally accepted halal certification and boost trade promotions, making the country a market leader on the global halal front.

Safe for consumption

Complementing its Halal certification, Yeo’s products are also manufactured under strict international quality and food safety standards and are safe for consumption.

Yeo’s has obtained the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certificate recognised in the food industry worldwide for food safety practices.

All its three factories, each located in Shah Alam, Johor Bahru and Ipoh, are also certified with Good Manufacturing Process (GMP) to control all potential hazards in food manufacturing processes, including a stringent filtration and sterilisation process and an enclosed filling system.

Other certifications include MeSTI (food hygiene), the Veterinary Health Mark (VHM) for the Shah Alam plant and the SIRIM certification for its Ipoh plant.

Recently, the company also successfully achieved the FSSC 22000 certification for its Ipoh plant, showcasing its commitment to consistently producing safe and high-quality products that meet and exceed industry standards.

Yeo’s is currently also pursuing the internationally acclaimed Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standard.

Legacy brand   

Yeo’s is a legacy brand with a history dating back to 1901 as a small soya sauce proprietorship in China. The owner Yeo Keng Lian, a man of foresight, boldly ventured into Singapore in 1935, and as business flourished, expanded into Malaysia in the 1940s.

Today, Yeo’s is synonymous with the F&B industry, manufacturing a range of products such as canned foods, beverages, culinary sauces and soya sauces to meet market needs.

While recognised for quality and innovation, Yeo’s is not one to rest on its laurels. The company continues to invest into research and development to expand its industry presence and to capture greater market share.

 

The Export-Import Bank of Malaysia (EXIM Bank), in collaboration with WAAFI Bank and Djibouti National Investment Promotion Agency (NIPA), and with the support of Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), is pleased to announce the conclusion of the “Malaysia Global Connect: Malaysia – Djibouti Business Forum”. This event, held in Djibouti on 29 November 2023, served as a dynamic platform for fostering economic ties and exploring strategic collaborations between Malaysia and Djibouti.

This follows the successful briefing held a couple of months ago, where key stakeholders and businesses gathered to discuss and strategise on the potential opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.

The Malaysia – Djibouti Business Forum brought together over 28 delegates, representing various sectors, to engage in fruitful discussions and explore business opportunities in Djibouti. While the delegates were welcomed by NIPA General Manager Mahdi Darar, the forum was officiated by the Djibouti Prime Minister His Excellency Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed and featured distinguished speakers and dignitaries, including a special video address by the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) of Malaysia, Ministers from various ministries from Djibouti such as Ministry of Economic and Finance, Energy, Health and Education, as well as the Djibouti Central Bank and Chamber of Commerce.

Key highlights of the Malaysia – Djibouti Business Forum included insightful discussions on economic policies, trade facilitation, and investment incentives. A closed-door dialogue with the four Djiboutian Ministers was also held to address any questions or issues the Malaysian delegates may have. In addition, the forum featured breakout sessions for the main four sectors, namely Constructions, Health, Power and Education.

The diverse group of participants gained valuable perspectives from industry leaders and government officials, contributing to a deeper understanding of the economic landscape in both Malaysia and Djibouti.

“We are thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and commitment from both Malaysian and Djiboutian businesses to explore new avenues of collaboration. This event not only facilitated dialogue but also paved the way for tangible partnerships that will contribute to the growth and prosperity of both nations,” said Arshad Ismail, President and Chief Executive Officer of EXIM Bank Malaysia.

As part of the forum, delegates had the unique opportunity to visit crucial economic hubs, including Ports, Free Zones, and the Central Business District in Djibouti. These visits provided firsthand insights into the infrastructure and investment opportunities available, reinforcing the commitment to strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

EXIM Bank Malaysia remains committed to playing a key role in fostering international trade and investment. The Malaysia – Djibouti Business Forum reflects the Bank’s dedication to creating platforms that facilitate dialogue and collaboration between businesses, government entities, and investors.

 

Syarikat Takaful Malaysia Keluarga Berhad (“Takaful Malaysia” or “Takaful  Malaysia Keluarga”), the FIRST takaful operator in Malaysia, today unveiled KAOTIM, a new digital platform and brand managed by Takaful Malaysia. KAOTIM, Takaful Malaysia’s latest addition to enhance insurance and takaful  mobility, is a digital initiative to provide a secure and enhanced customer experience and streamlined  administrative processes that enable customers to enjoy a hassle-free and speedy subscription process. The  online straight-through platform offers MediKad, an all-in-one and low-priced medical coverage plan for Malaysians.

Present at the launch of KAOTIM were the Group Chairman of Takaful Malaysia, Dato’ Mohammed Hussein;  Chairman of Takaful Malaysia Am (the General Takaful arm of Takaful Malaysia Keluarga), Ismail Mahbob; the  Board of Directors of Takaful Malaysia Keluarga and Takaful Malaysia Am; the Shariah Advisory Body; Group  Chief Executive Officer of Takaful Malaysia, Nor Azman Zainal; Chief Executive Officer of Takaful Malaysia Am,  Mohamed Sabri Ramli and the Senior Management of Takaful Malaysia.

Nor Azman Zainal, Group Chief Executive Officer of Takaful Malaysia, said, “Today’s launch of KAOTIM indicates  our strategic effort to strengthen our presence in the digital insurance and takaful sphere, and meet the fast evolving demands and expectations of customers. KAOTIM reinforces our commitment to putting customers at  the forefront of our business and transforming to deliver next-generation customer experience. Spearheading the  digital initiative, we step to the fore to be a leading digital player in the insurance and takaful industry and fulfil the long-term aspiration towards digitalising the financial services industry, the digital wave in the insurance and  takaful sector, which aligns with the national directive to enhance economic competitiveness and dynamism for  the growth of the digital economy.”

“The introduction of KAOTIM underpins our strategic move to reinforce our retail direct business and gain new  customers, enabling seamless online transactions to suit evolving lifestyles. We are delighted to achieve another key milestone in our business, leveraging our digital capabilities and diversified touchpoints to ensure that we  continue to offer personalised customer solutions and meet consumer behaviour, which has transformed over  time, driven by technological advancements and diverse needs. Through innovative technology and a vibrant  brand identity, KAOTIM is set to be a key differentiator based on customer value propositions, giving Takaful  Malaysia an edge and customer affinity. With the launch of KAOTIM, we introduce MediKad, a cost-effective  medical coverage plan with greater savings from as low as RM38 per month to meet the medical protection needs  of different age groups,” said Nor Azman Zainal.

MediKad provides cashless admission to panel hospitals in Malaysia, unlimited hospital admission days on room  and board, and daily income for admission to Government hospitals. Offered to Malaysians between the ages of six (6) and sixty-nine (69) with a coverage period of up to eighty-five (85) years old, customers can choose from  three (3) different plans with an optional rider, MediBooster, according to their coverage needs and are  immediately covered after completing a four-step online enrolment and a simple medical questionnaire, without  having to undergo a medical check-up.

“Customers can sign up for MediKad online via KAOTIM, anytime, anywhere, and complete the  transaction in a  few minutes with just a few clicks and get covered within the day. We leverage the lower transaction cost of the  digital platform to deliver a better pricing and accessible takaful plan to the market. This is part of our holistic digital  plan to attract new customer segments directly and better serve Malaysia’s growing population while enhancing the financial resilience of customers whose medical coverage is inadequate or high-priced. This is also part of our  initiative to help cushion the impact of high medical costs faced by Malaysians by offering an affordable medical  coverage plan,” said Nor Azman Zainal.

“Accessibility and agility are everything in today’s era. Hence, we want to provide customers with a seamless,  efficient, and convenient experience through KAOTIM and bring them closer to us anywhere they are. KAOTIM offers a digital customer journey that makes a comprehensive, low-cost medical coverage plan more accessible,  enabling fast and user-friendly processes to allow customers to achieve financial security and peace of mind. The  launch of KAOTIM and the introduction of MediKad today, in conjunction with our 39^th anniversary, made it even  more meaningful. Let this be part of our journey as we take a step further to strive towards strengthening our  foothold as a leading Islamic financial institution to stay relevant, competitive and dynamic in the insurance and  takaful industry,” said Nor Azman Zainal in conclusion.

 

Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Huawei Malaysia) and Pantas Software Sdn Bhd (Pantas) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently to work together on enterprise decarbonisation applications for businesses.

The collaboration will see Huawei Malaysia act as the technology provider that will deliver its Digital Power products and solutions including its Smart PV+ESS and FusionCharge solutions while Pantas will undertake the role of strategic partner in new business development.

Huawei’s global experience in the solar energy market and its increasing leadership position in the local market will act as a crucial catalyst in helping the industry, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and residences fast-track their transition towards renewable energy.

Pantas, the leading climate-tech firm in Southeast Asia, empowers companies with customised end-to-end climate solutions, enabling them to accurately measure, manage, and disclose ESG metrics, with an emphasis on carbon emissions. Built on proprietary AI technology, Pantas’ platform seamlessly integrates with ERP systems, recommends tailored decarbonisation strategies from its partners to its clients or users, and offers bespoke financing solutions from partner banks.

The synergy between both companies will help ensure the best solutions are offered to companies to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy.

The partnership will also complement the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) towards a fair and equitable energy transition as well as boost the growth of the country’s renewable energy industry.

Speaking on the partnership, Chong Chern Peng, Huawei Malaysia Vice President of Digital Power Business said, “Huawei Digital Power focuses on the needs of local businesses for different scenarios that will enable them to embark on an energy revolution.”

“We have end-to-end energy flow solutions that will open up a path to both the generation and consumption of clean power, as well as a sustainable roadmap for Malaysian businesses. With this partnership we are hoping for a win-win collaboration that will lead to a better and greener Malaysia,” he added.

Max Lee, CEO of Pantas, commented, “Our groundbreaking partnership with Huawei represents a significant milestone in our commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation. By harmonising Huawei’s cutting-edge renewable energy solutions with Pantas’ advanced climate technology platform, we are not merely collaborating; we are forging a dynamic alliance. Our combined efforts will empower businesses with data-driven, AI-enhanced decarbonisation strategies, tailored specifically to their needs. This collaboration is more than a union of two companies; it’s a catalyst for change, driving Malaysian businesses towards a more sustainable, low-carbon future. With Pantas’ platform intelligently guiding companies to the most suitable Huawei solutions, we are setting a new standard in corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability.”

The partnership looks set to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy solutions in the day-to-day operations of Malaysian businesses including smart PV and energy storage systems (ESS) for rooftop and utility-scale power plants, commercial supercharging electronic vehicle (EV) stations, microgrid power plants, as well as front-of-the-meter and behind-the-meter battery energy storage systems (BESS) applications.

The MoU was signed by Chong Chern Peng, Vice President of Huawei Digital Power Business and Max Lee, CEO of Pantas, while the witnesses to the MoU exchange ceremony were Oliver Liu, Huawei Malaysia Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, and  Lionel Loh, Senior Sustainability Manager at Pantas.