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When global companies decide where to make their next strategic investment, the conversation often starts with familiar considerations: the largest market, the lowest-cost location or the most established technology hub. But the criteria are changing. Artificial intelligence, digital transformation and growing geopolitical uncertainty are reshaping what businesses need from the places in which they invest. Increasingly, the question is not simply where operations can be located, but where companies can build the capabilities they will need to compete tomorrow. For Malaysia, that shift raises an important question. Why are more global companies looking at the country not merely as a market, but as a location for strategic regional and global operations? By Reto Sahli, Chief Digital and Information Officer, HAVI Global The Rules of Investment Have Changed For much of the past two decades, cost optimisation played a major role in investment decisions. Businesses pursued scale,...

Malaysia's preparations for Budget 2027 come as productivity, competitiveness and business growth remain high on the agenda. At the same time, Malaysian businesses are placing greater focus on technology and opportunities to reach new markets. According to the Adyen Index 2026 , 47% of Malaysian retailers plan to integrate AI-driven or agentic commerce solutions to increase revenue, while 41% plan to expand into new international markets in 2026. However, growth also brings greater operational complexity. As businesses add more channels, markets, technologies and payment methods, more systems need to work together behind the scenes. The question is whether their infrastructure can keep pace. As businesses expand, so does complexity Expanding across more channels, stores and markets can make both customer and operational journeys increasingly complex. Moving into international markets adds another layer, as businesses need to manage different currencies, payment preferences, c...

CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 concluded its nationwide roadshow with a final stop in Kuching, Sarawak today, officiated by YB Datuk Wilson Ugak anak Kumbong, Deputy Minister of Digital. The event brought together entrepreneurs, corporates, government agencies, investors, collaborators and solution providers to empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to unlock their full business potential. CTOS SME Biz Day has become a driving force for digitalisation, transformation, and innovation among SMEs to accelerate business growth amidst a dynamic market. Throughout the year, CTOS SME Biz Day charted a course across Malaysia’s key economic regions, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor, before completing its final roadshow in Kuching. The choice of strategic locations reflects CTOS’s commitment to both national and state-level visions of empowering SMEs as engines of growth, particularly through technology adoption and holistic SME growth a...

Double Win for FedEx Malaysia at 2025 CSR Awards FedEx Malaysia just bagged two major awards at the Sustainability & CSR Malaysia Awards 2025 , and it's more than just trophies, it's a whole vibe of purpose-driven work. Recognised for its community outreach and green innovation, the logistics giant continues to flex its role beyond packages. Here’s what they walked away with: Company of the Year: Heart of Service Company of the Year: Long-Standing Excellence It’s the fifth time FedEx has been honoured at this award series since 2020, but this marks their first time winning the “Heart of Service” category, a major nod to the passion of their volunteers and grassroots impact. What Makes FedEx Malaysia’s CSR So Real? Let’s talk about what actually earned them those titles and why Gen Z should care. 💡 FedEx/Junior Achievement ITC Challenge More than 9,900 Malaysian students trained since 2008 This year: Over 700 students created sustainable fashio...

MDEC x BSN: A New Era of Digital Empowerment for Youth The MoU exchange ceremony was officiated by Encik Suzaini Mukhtar, Head of Deposit, Payment and Financial Inclusion Department, BSN; and Ts. Nik Naharudin Mohd Nasir, Director of Digital Talent and Entrepreneurship Department, MDEC. The signing was witnessed by Encik Mujibburrahman Abd Rashid, Deputy Chief Executive of BSN; and Ir. Wan Murdani Wan Mohamad, Head of Digital Adoption Division, MDEC. MDEC and Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) just signed a major strategic partnership aimed at empowering Malaysia’s youth through the Next Gen TeenXChange programme. Announced on 25 July 2025 , this fresh collaboration is all about nurturing digital talent and building a digitally literate and financially savvy generation. This move builds on MDEC’s long-running Digital Ninja initiative under its #MyDigitalMaker movement, but now with stronger industry support and national reach, especially through BSN’s expertise in financial literac...

Malaysian Tech Powers ASEAN Growth with RM450M in Digital Exports Malaysian and Indonesian delegates at DEX CONNEX Indonesia Earlier this July, Malaysia made a bold digital move across ASEAN. 83 Malaysian tech firms took part in DEX CONNEX Indonesia , a regional business matching initiative by MDEC , securing over RM450 million in digital export opportunities. The event, held in Jakarta, saw 26 MoUs signed between Malaysian and Indonesian companies across hot sectors like AI, cybersecurity, cloud, and digital platforms. DEX CONNEX: Building a Borderless Tech Bridge DEX CONNEX Indonesia was all about cross-border collaboration. These 26 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) didn’t just signal partnerships, they unlocked real business value in: Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity Cloud services Digital platforms F&B and talent development The goal? Strengthen ASEAN's digital ecosystem as Malaysia leads innovation in its ASEAN Chairmanship year. “Throu...

CTOS SME Biz Day Johor: Scaling Up Local Businesses for the Digital Future The spotlight is on Johor as CTOS SME Biz Day Johor lands at Persada Johor International Convention Centre on 9 July 2025. This event is more than just a seminar, it's a rallying call for Malaysian SMEs to level up, digitalise, and seize cross-border opportunities. If you're running a business in Johor, this is your chance to plug into the future. Why Johor Is the New Digital Frontier With over 50,000 SMEs already embracing digital tools, Johor is quickly becoming Malaysia’s tech-forward business hub. But things are accelerating fast thanks to: The Johor Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) A resource-rich location near Singapore New focus on AI, digital compliance, and social media innovation Despite progress, many SMEs are still lagging in digital maturity. CTOS is stepping in to bridge that gap. What to Expect at CTOS SME Biz Day Johor This one-day event is packed with...

Small Biz, Big Moves: TNG Launches Free Business Account for Micro-Entrepreneurs Good news for hustlers, gig workers, and micro business owners: the new TNG Digital Business Account is here and it’s all about making business growth easy, secure, and mobile-first. Launched on 18 June 2025 and officiated by YB Senator Dr. Hajah Fuziah Binti Salleh and TNG Digital CEO Alan Ni, this move is a bold step towards giving Malaysia’s micro and small businesses real tools to thrive in the digital economy. What Is the TNG Digital Business Account? It’s a fully digital eWallet account designed for: Micro and small businesses (MSMEs) Informal traders Hawkers and gig workers Key perks: ✅ No fees ✅ No paperwork ✅ No minimum balance ✅ Open and use from your phone ✅ Instant transfers across eWallets and banks ✅ Real-time fund access All while being regulated by Bank Negara Malaysia , so your money’s safe. Why It Matters for Malaysia’s Business Scene Nearly...

Entrepreneurs Take Note: CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 Just Set the Bar in Penang CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 just wrapped up in Penang , bringing together over 1,500 entrepreneurs, tech experts and changemakers under one roof to talk digitalisation, innovation, and real-world growth strategies . The high-energy event, powered by CTOS Malaysia , wasn’t just about networking, it was about building the future of local business . If you’re an up-and-coming founder or planning to grow your side hustle, here’s what went down and why it matters to you. 💡 Why Penang? Why Now? Penang is on track to become the Silicon Valley of the Talent , and CTOS is jumping right in to fuel that rise. Back for a second year, the event highlighted Penang’s role in the national digital economy, making it a solid launchpad for SME innovation. What made Penang a strategic choice? Rapid growth in digital economy and high-tech sectors Strong state support for smart business ecosystems Vision to build a glo...

Out with the Old: Bank Islam Says Goodbye to GO App & Website Big changes are coming to your banking app. Bank Islam is officially shutting down its GO app and www.bankislam.biz by 28 June 2025, six months earlier than planned. The move comes after more than 90% of users jumped ship to the new Bank Islam BIMB Mobile and BIMB Web platforms. Talk about a digital glow-up. Why the Switch to BIMB Mobile is a Power Move The newly enhanced Bank Islam BIMB Mobile is everything your old app wishes it could be: Biometric logins & secure authentication Cross-border QR payments Smooth onboarding for new customers International fund transfers Manage your Bank Islam Gold Account-i BIMB Mobile Lite for financial-savvy kids as young as 12 “This upgrade isn’t just about tech, it’s about delivering a seamless and secure banking journey,” said Bank Islam. What You Need to Do Now Still using GO by Bank Islam? Time to level up. Download BIMB Mobile today from: App Store Google Play Huawei AppGall...

Unifi Business and TNG Digital have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate 5G adoption and transform eWallet experiences for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Malaysia. The collaboration includes UNI5G Postpaid Biz and Touch ‘n Go eWallet Soundbox packages, which will be offered to more than one million MSMEs nationwide and will be available via in-app media and Unifi Stores. [From Left] Freddie Lee, TNG Digital’s Head of Merchant Services; Emilio Sta Maria, TNG Digital’s Head of Loyalty & Engagement; Kelvin Lee, Unifi’s General Manager for Fixed Mobile Convergence; and Mohamad Yusman Ammeran, Unifi Business’ Vice President, during the memorandum of understanding exchange between Unifi and TNG Digital at the Setapak Unifi Store. As the preferred digital partner for MSMEs, Unifi Business will deliver high-speed, low latency 5G connectivity. Its UNI5G Postpaid Biz solutions and 5G-enabled devices, coupled with the Touch ‘n Go eWallet Soundbox, will de...

Carlsberg Malaysia encourages key suppliers to embark on responsible sourcing practices and human rights compliance Carlsberg Malaysia hosted its inaugural Supplier Day, focusing on the environment and social governance of responsible supply chain management in pursuit of the brewer’s net zero carbon emissions commitments. Sixty-four upstream and manpower suppliers were briefed on the company’s stance on responsible sourcing practices and human rights compliance. They also learned about key issues shared by invited speakers from UN Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei (UNGCMYB), Capital Markets Malaysia (an affiliate of Securities Commission Malaysia) and Sedex Asia. In addition to strict compliance with the Carlsberg’s Supplier and Licensee Code of Conduct, the brewer also urged suppliers to keep abreast of the latest developments on labour and environmental regulations in both local and international fronts. Additionally, a strong emphasis was placed on human rights principles ...

Vietjet Air marked two key milestones in its ongoing collaboration with France during the state visit of Vietnam’s General Secretary and President To Lam. The airline celebrated the delivery of a new Airbus A321neo featuring a commemorative design for the 50th anniversary of Vietnam–France diplomatic relations, and signed a US$8 billion (approx. RM 34.31 billion) agreement with CFM International for more than 400 LEAP-1B engines. Vietjet Receives Airbus Aircraft Marking 50 Years of Vietnam–France Ties At Orly Airport in Paris, Vietjet welcomed the latest addition to its fleet - an Airbus A321neo featuring the symbol of the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-France diplomatic relations. The ceremony was attended by high-level representatives from both countries, including President To Lam, and French officials. Vietjet Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, said: “Vietjet aircraft showcasing the symbol of 50 years of Vietnam–France diplomatic relations marks a milestone in the development of econo...

Vietjet and Castlelake, a global alternative investment manager specialising in asset-based investing with nearly 20 years of experience in aircraft investment, leasing, and servicing, have exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to finance the airline’s four aircraft valued at US$560 million (approx. RM2.37 billion). The event took place during the Vietnam-Ireland Business Forum in Dublin in the presence of Vietnam’s General Secretary and State President To Lam. As part of the MOU, Castlelake intends to provide financing for four new, modern Airbus A321neo aircraft under Vietjet’s existing order with Airbus. These aircraft are scheduled for delivery within 2024. This arrangement follows a financing agreement completed in 2023 for three Airbus A321neo aircraft and serves as a foundation for future cooperation on financing agreements to support Vietjet’s rapidly growing fleet. “Castlelake is pleased continue building its relationship with Vietjet and to support Vietjet’s mission t...

Celebrating 30 years of global chassis modules assembly and logistics excellence Malaysia: Presence since 2012 spread across two plants, serving diverse customer base. A total of 40million axle sets globally produced since 1994 A total of 1.9million carsets produced in AP Region and India since 2002 Acquisition focus also on Asian NEV companies Continuous growth through strong order intake and outsourcing Sales increase expected from actual USD 4.4bn to USD 8.8bn by 2029 Malaysia: Capacity expansion and new model launches to support Porsche’s car assembly in Malaysia Global automotive supplier ZF Foxconn Chassis Modules (ZFFCN) expects to double its annual sales from actual USD4.4bn (Euro 4bn) to USD8.8bn (Euro 8bn) by 2029. Contrary to the situational decline in the global automotive market, ZFFCN is benefiting from a strong order intake of top tier OEM such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis. ZFFCN has two plants in Malaysia which are located at Kulim and Pekan, catering to a diver...

In conjunction with World Pharmacist Day on 25 September, Malaysia’s largest prescription pharmacy chain, Alpro Pharmacy, launched its newest outlet at KidZania Kuala Lumpur today. Alpro Pharmacy, the only pharmacy in the interactive city for kids, joined the buzzing neighborhood that presents more than 70 role- play activities, offering children the chance to experience different professions through realistic, immersive experiences. Ph. Lim En Ni, the Engagement Director and Chief Pharmacist of Alpro Pharmacy said "Our expansion to KidZania Kuala Lumpur aligns with our vision for a healthy and vibrant world. At Alpro Pharmacy, our mission is to provide opportunities, health, and guidance to anyone striving for a better life. It's essential to introduce children early to the crucial role pharmacists play in their lives, particularly in ensuring medication safety. “KidZania's unique setting allows us to engage children through role-play activities that develop their critica...

Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company (HOSE: VJC) has released its audited financial statement for the first half of 2024 (H1/2024), reporting strong growth in revenue and profit year-over-year (YoY). According to the report, Vietjet’s air transport revenue reached VND33.862 trillion (approx. RM5.98 billion) in the first six months of 2024, slightly higher than the compiled financial statements. Pre-tax profit was recorded at VND1.166 trillion (approx. RM205.79 million), marking a remarkable increase of 688% YoY. The airline reported H1/2024 consolidated revenue of VND34.030 trillion (approx. RM6 billion) and consolidated pre-tax profit of over VND1 trillion (approx. RM176.49 million), representing YOY increases of 15% and 307%, respectively. As of June 30, 2024, Vietjet's total assets exceeded VND92.205 trillion (approx. RM16.273 billion). The debt-to-equity ratio remained at around 2.16, compared to a global average of 5. Its liquidity ratio stood at 1.39, which is within a favour...

Marriott International, Inc. has announced the appointment of Lisa Low as the Hotel Manager and Nuno Abreu as the Director of B&F (Beverage and Food) for W Kuala Lumpur ; the leading city escape in the heart of Kuala Lumpur City Centre with iconic views. W Kuala Lumpur made its debut in August 2018 – marking it the brand’s first foray into Malaysia. Lisa Low Lisa who has been with W Kuala Lumpur since February 2020 marking it her fourth year being with the W hotels brand is no stranger to the hotel industry and to the brand. Moving up and making a strong statement that women can do anything, the ever competitive and head strong Director of Sales & Marketing will be leading the team as she sees best with her can-do attitude and exuberant spirit. Prior to being the hotel’s connector, Lisa embarked on her career at the Four Seasons as a sales manager, before moving on to become the Assistant Director of Sales at The Westin Langkawi and Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur simultaneousl...

AirAsia X Berhad (AirAsia X) continues its impressive financial performance, reporting its eighth consecutive profitable quarter. For the Second Quarter of 2024 (2Q24), which ended on 30 June 2024, the company recorded a net profit of RM4.8 million. This achievement comes despite the traditionally weaker second quarter and the absence of its full 18-aircraft fleet. Strong Financial Performance Driven by Robust Demand In 2Q24, AirAsia X generated a revenue of RM669.1 million, marking a 30% year-on-year (YoY) increase. This growth reflects the sustained demand in core markets as the company expanded its operational fleet to 16 aircraft. The company also reported Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation (EBITDA) of RM58.4 million. Passenger numbers soared by 42% YoY, with over 880,000 passengers carried, outpacing the 30% YoY growth in seat capacity. The Passenger Load Factor (PLF) was strong at 83%, a seven percentage point increase YoY, with high-demand routes in Ch...