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Month: November 2024

A TRANSFORMATIVE DAY AT THE SUSTAINABLE ACTION CONFERENCE 2024: OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED BY THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF PLANTATION AND COMMODITIES OF MALAYSIA, YB DATUK CHAN FOONG HIN.

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Kuala Lumpur – The second edition of the Sustainable Action Conference 2024 (SAC 2.0) concluded with remarkable success on 21st November 2024 at the Sunway Resort Hotel, Malaysia. Co-organized by Control Union Malaysia and the Malaysian Dutch Business Council (MDBC), in collaboration with the MDBC Innovation & Sustainability Awards (MISA), the event was proudly supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Malaysia Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC).

The conference was officially launched by YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin the Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities of Malaysia, accompanied by H.E. Jacques Werner, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Malaysia, and H.E. Rafael Tristan Daerr, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Malaysia, Ir. TS. Shamsul Bahar, Group Chief Executive Officer, Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation, Mr. Dirk Teichert, Managing Director of Control Union Asia Holdings and Mr. Supun Nigamuni, Managing Director, Control Union Malaysia.

The conference brought together corporate leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates from across diverse sectors such as manufacturing, plantations, forestry, energy, oil & gas, construction, finance, and tourism. With the theme “Transforming Pledges into Action: Realizing a Sustainable Future,” SAC 2024 showcased real-world case studies, provided actionable insights, and spotlighted best practices in sustainable land use, green financing, energy-efficient manufacturing, and sustainable tourism.

SAC 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability by hosting a carbon-neutral event, by offsetting emissions through the Kuamut Rainforest Conservation Project, Malaysia’s first nature-based carbon initiative registered under VERRA powered by Saxon Renewables and reinvesting all proceeds into charitable organizations supporting impactful sustainability efforts.

One of the highlights of SAC 2024 was the Non-Government Organization (NGO) funding project. After a rigorous selection process, Dignity for Children Foundation emerged as the winner of the RM 50,000 grant for the Empowerment of Orang Asli Youth Project. This initiative, designed to address educational challenges faced by the Orang Asli community, exemplifies the impact of aligning visionary projects with actionable sustainability goals. This was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Control Union Malaysia, CarbonSpace, Saxon Renewables, SaraCarbon, EPIC Berhad, and Corsair, reaffirming their commitment to driving impactful change through sustainable practices.

The conference featured distinguished speakers from leading organizations, including PETRONAS, Bursa Malaysia, Bank Negara Malaysia, CIMB Islamic Bank, European Union, Malaysian Timber Association (MTA), SP Setia Berhad, Tourism Malaysia, MATRADE, Climate Governance Malaysia, Malaysia Forest Fund (MFF), Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLK), SD Guthrie, Signify, and more. Their insights provided invaluable guidance on incorporating sustainability into business strategies, addressing global environmental challenges, and fostering innovation.

SAC 2024 marked a significant milestone in Malaysia’s sustainability journey, offering a platform for collaboration, learning, and impactful decision-making. By uniting thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators, the event underscored the importance of collective efforts to advance sustainability across core industries.

Control Union Malaysia thanks all attendees, sponsors, and partners for making SAC 2024 a success and looks forward to further strengthening Malaysia’s commitment to sustainability.

For more information on SAC 2024 and future initiatives, visit www.sustainableactionconference.com.

 

Jom Kosong @ Tealive to fund 1 million school meals

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(From left) Bryan Yeow, Director of Special Projects & International Business of Loob Holding; Datuk William Ng, President of Small and Medium Enterprises Association (SAMENTA) Malaysia; Bryan Loo, Founder and CEO of Loob Holding; Dr Fuziah Salleh, Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN); Datuk Roziah binti Abudin, Deputy Secretary General (Domestic Trade) of KPDN and Nazrin Shashadin, Head of Programme Coordination & Distribution for Yayasan Didik Negara, during the launch of Tealive’s Jom Kosong campaign.

Putrajaya – Tealive, the top Southeast Asian lifestyle tea brand, today pledged to provide one million free school meals in support of the Jom Kosong campaign, an initiative of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living to promote zero-sugar options.

Loob Holding Sdn Bhd founder and CEO Bryan Loo said for each cup sold under the campaign, 20 sen would be contributed to the Tealive School Meals Fund.

“We will contribute directly to Yayasan Didik Negara (YDN) which runs the school meals programme and we understand that RM3.5 million is required to fund one million meals,” he said.

Tealive will officially kick off its Jom Kosong campaign on Dec 1 and Loo is confident the targeted amount would be raised within one year, depending on the number of customers who support its Jom Kosong campaign.

Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Dr Fuziah Salleh, launched Tealive’s Jom Kosong campaign at the Tealive outlet at the Ministry premises. Also present were Hirudin bin Mohit, Deputy Director of Daily School Management Division (BPSH) under Ministry of Education, and Mohd Razi bin Jaafar, YDN’s Acting CEO, as well as officials from the two Ministries.

Elaborating on its support for the Jom Kosong campaign, Loo said all Tealive customers had always been empowered to customise their drinks to their preference. They could opt for different sugar and even ice levels.

“Tealive wants to show our commitment in supporting this Ministry initiative and we thought it would be a noble effort to get our customers to raise funds together to provide school meals.

“We hope our customers will come forward to support this initiative, especially knowing that the 20-sen per cup goes directly to provide nutritious school meals for B40 children,” he said.

“Let us positively impact the community,” Loo added.

Tealive customers who contributed to the school meals programme will also get an acknowledgement in their drink receipts stating the amount they have contributed.

Those ordering on the Tealive app will also get the option to support this programme and their contribution will also be visible to them during their purchase journey within the app.

BINA PURI ASSOCIATE WINS ARBITRATION CASE AGAINST PROLINTAS

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KUALA LUMPUR: KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway Bhd (“LATAR”), an associate company of Bina Puri Holdings Bhd (“Bina Puri”) has won an arbitration case against PROLINTAS, over non-payment of monies to LATAR under the Co-ordination and Cost-sharing agreement. 

In a Bursa Malaysia filing, Bina Puri said LATAR commenced arbitral proceedings on  July 19, 2019 against PROLINTAS at the Asian International Arbitration Centre. 

The arbitration tribunal ordered PROLINTAS to pay RM46,131,147.57 with interest to LATAR in its judgment on Nov 7 this year. 

LATAR is the concessionaire for the 33km-long Kuala Lumpur – Kuala Selangor expressway which was open to the public on June 23, 2011.  

PROLINTAS is an investment holding company that designs, builds, operates, and maintains highways.

SUSTAINABLE ACTION CONFERENCE 2024: TRANSFORMING PLEDGES INTO ACTION FOR A GREENER FUTURE

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Control Union Malaysia is proud to announce the second edition of Sustainable Action Conference 2024 (2.0) (SAC 2024) will be co-organized with the Malaysian Dutch Business Council (MDBC) in conjunction with the MDBC Innovation & Sustainability Awards (MISA). The event is scheduled on 21st November 2024 at Sunway Resort Hotel, Malaysia and is supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Malaysia Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC).

The SAC 2024 + MISA, with the overarching theme “Transforming Pledges into Action: Realizing A Sustainable Future” aims to provides platform to showcase industry case studies, demonstrating successful sustainability initiatives and deliver actionable solutions that can be implemented across various industries – including Manufacturing, Plantations, Forestry, Energy, Oil & Gas, Constructions, Finance and others to effectively address sustainability efforts. Building on the foundation laid in the first edition, SAC 2024 introduces new, targeted sessions to address key areas of sustainability. Each session offers a focused approach, providing actionable insights and collaboration opportunities for various sectors:

Session 1: Financing the Future – Sustainable Investments and Risk Management
The inaugural session delves into the role of financial institutions in driving sustainability through innovative investment and risk management practices. It targets banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies, exploring sustainable financing models, green bonds, and environmental risk assessments. 

Session 2: Sustainable Production and Resource Management – Innovations in Manufacturing and Energy
This session addresses sustainable production practices and resource management, focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, mining, metals, oil and gas, energy, construction, and automotive. It emphasizes circular economy principles, resource-efficient extraction and processing, and low-carbon supply chain solutions. Through these discussions, participants will learn about reducing environmental impacts in production and construction, optimizing energy efficiency, and integrating renewable energy into their operations. This session provides critical insights into how heavy industries can adapt to a sustainable future.

Session 3: Greening the Land – Sustainable Practices in Agriculture and Forestry
Focusing on forestry, plantations, and agriculture, this session promotes sustainable land use, conservation, and responsible sourcing. It explores sustainable farming techniques, forest conservation, and responsible forestry management, with discussions on mitigating deforestation and fostering reforestation. Certification and accountability are highlighted to ensure land use practices that benefit the environment and local communities, supporting long-term agricultural and forestry sustainability.

Session 4: Empowering Communities – Sustainable Development in Urban and Rural Areas
This final session addresses the unique sustainability challenges in urban and rural development, focusing on tourism, power utilities, municipal councils, and construction. Discussions include sustainable urban planning, eco-friendly tourism, renewable energy solutions, and green building standards. The session emphasizes the role of local governments in promoting sustainability and adapting infrastructure to meet environmental goals, offering insights into fostering sustainable communities and equitable development.

To learn more about the event, please visit our website at [www.sustainableactionconference.com] or contact the secretariat, Ms. Dinusha at +603 3000 4132 / +6012-627 2505. Alternatively, you can email your enquiries to us at bdcumalaysia@controlunion.com.

DUOPHARMA BIOTECH AND UNIVERSITI KEBANGSAAN MALAYSIA PARTNER TO ELEVATE HALAL STANDARDS IN HEALTHCARE

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Kuala Lumpur, 12 November 2024 – Duopharma Biotech Berhad (“Duopharma Biotech” or
“the Company”) partnered with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)’s Faculty of Pharmacy
and IDEA Centre – the university’s strategic office for Research and Innovation, to organise a
one-day Halal Pharmaceutical Symposium 2024 (HPS 2024) in Putrajaya recently, themed
“Bridging Halal to Health: Fostering Inclusivity, Innovation and Healthcare Excellence”. The
event saw the attendance of about 300 delegates from Malaysia.

Launched by Khairul Azwan Harun, Chairman of Halal Development Corporation (HDC), the
symposium saw the participation of Prof Dato’ Dr Hanafiah Harunarashid, Pro Vice-Chancellor
(Kuala Lumpur Campus), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia; Leonard Ariff Abdul Shatar, Group
Managing Director, Duopharma Biotech Berhad and various other representatives from the
pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, including Government and non-government bodies;
academic and research institutions; healthcare practitioners as well as industry players.

Aiming to provide a platform for exposure, knowledge sharing and discussion among
delegates, thus contributing to enhancing the sustainability of the Halal pharmaceutical
industry in Malaysia and globally, the symposium featured a panel discussion, paper
presentations, viewing of research posters and a research colloquium. The panel discussion
saw sharing of insights from speakers representing UKM, Duopharma Biotech, the
Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), HDC, the Ministry of Defence and the
Malaysian Pharmacist Society.

Continuing collaboration
HPS 2024 is a continuation of several initiatives between UKM and Duopharma Biotech since
2019 to bolster the Halal pharmaceutical economy, with Duopharma Biotech also funding
research and development efforts by UKM, based at the Halal Pharmaceutical Business
Initiative Centre (HPBI) under the coordination of the UKM Graduate School of Business
(UKM-GSB). HPBI is a shared facility for UKM faculty members from different disciplines,
including the Faculties of Science and Technology, Pharmacy and Islamic Studies and the
Graduate School of Business. Meanwhile, the university’s IDEA Centre has established a
Halal Economy research group involving the Faculties of Economics, Management,
Pharmacy, Islamic Studies, Science & Technology, and UNIPEQ Sdn Bhd – the university’s
commercialisation arm. The group aims to advance knowledge through research, training,
professional certification, conferences and collaborations with global stakeholders.

Leonard Ariff Abdul Shatar, Group Managing Director, Duopharma Biotech Berhad
commented, “We are honoured to co-organise HPS 2024 with UKM. As our longstanding R&D
partner in Halal pharmaceutical science and commercial applications, we have made
significant progress together and look forward to reaching many more milestones. Through
this symposium, Duopharma Biotech is maintaining our momentum in spearheading strategic
collaborations to capture fast-growing potential in the Halal pharmaceutical industry and
elevate the position of Halal pharmaceuticals within the global pharmaceutical landscape.”

“As the Halal Pharmaceutical leader in Malaysia with 25 years of excellence in producing Halal
certified products for consumers, our efforts are driven by our “Halal Built-in” policy and ESG
commitment which includes a focus on Access to Medicine. Our aim is to enhance inclusivity
in healthcare, enabling all patients to have choices in the therapies and medications they need
for their well-being – safe for use and effective, high in quality, hygienic and Halal-certified,”
he added.

Prof Dato’ Gs. Ts. Dr Mohd Ekhwan Hj Toriman, Vice-Chancellor, Universiti Kebangsaan
Malaysia, emphasised the importance of academic research in advancing the Halal
pharmaceutical sector. “UKM is one of Malaysia’s leading public universities, known for its
strong emphasis on research, including in fields like science, technology and medicine. At
UKM, we believe that Halal pharmaceuticals represent a critical opportunity to merge scientific
and business innovation with religious compliance. This collaboration between academia and
industry can lead to new research initiatives, product development, training modules and
advancements in Halal certification, ensuring global access to Halal-compliant pharmaceutical
products.”

Malaysia’s Halal industry is projected to expand to USD113.2 billion by 2030, with a GDP
contribution of 8.1% by 2025 through the Halal Industry Master Plan 20301

, spurred by the
Government’s aim to elevate Malaysia’s position as a key player in the global Halal market.
Pharmaceuticals are a key growth sector, increasing 156.7% from 2021 to 2022 – the highest
growth recorded. Globally, the Halal industry offers enormous potential, projected to rise to
USD5 trillion in value by 2030 from the current USD3.5 trillion, alongside a growth in consumer
numbers from 1.9 billion to 2.3 billion by 2030

Established leadership
Duopharma Biotech was the first pharmaceutical Company to receive Halal certification from
JAKIM for its Consumer Healthcare Products in 1999, in accordance with MS 1500:2009
standards, pioneering a range of 100% Halal health supplements, including CHAMPS,
Flavettes, Proviton and Naturalle products. The Company also complies with the Malaysian
Standard on Halal Pharmaceuticals MS 2424:2019, which provides clear guidance on the
requirements for producing Halal pharmaceuticals.

Duopharma Biotech is also the first pharmaceutical company to receive Halal certification from
JAKIM for an oncology product, produced at its cutting-edge Highly Potent Active
Pharmaceutical Ingredients (HAPI) facility located in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, the first cancer
medicine manufacturing facility in Malaysia, with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
certification from the Malaysian National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency. The Company’s
first biosimilar registered in Malaysia, Erysaa (Erythropoietin) is also the first in its category to
be certified Halal by the Korea Muslim Federation (KMF) in 2020. Likewise, Duopharma
Biotech’s cosmeceutical range IRORO Nutreatment haircare products developed using stem
cell technology, is Halal-certified by KMF. Duopharma Biotech is a member of the HDC’s
Sectoral Working Group.

For more information on the Halal Pharmaceuticals Symposium 2024, please visit
https://halal4pharma.com/hps2024/

Scoot Expands its Network to Padang, Phu Quoc and Shantou, Bringing Malaysians Closer to Asia’s Hidden Treasures

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MALAYSIA – Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), today announced
the launch of three new flight services to Phu Quoc in Vietnam, Padang in Indonesia and
Shantou in China. Flights to Phu Quoc and Padang will commence on 20 December 2024
and 6 January 2025, respectively, and will be operated on the Embraer E190-E2 aircraft
while flights to Shantou will begin on 16 January 2025 on the Airbus A320 family aircraft.

Known for its rare wildlife and pristine beaches, Phu Quoc is a tropical haven perfect for a
holiday of adventure or relaxation. It also houses the Phu Quoc National Park, recognised as
a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. At present, Phu Quoc is the only destination in Vietnam that
has a 30-day visa-free policy, offering international travellers convenient access. From 20
December 2024, Scoot will operate three times weekly flights to Phu Quoc. Two more
weekly flights will be added from 25 January 2025, bringing the total number of weekly flights
between Singapore and Phu Quoc to five times.

Padang, the capital city of West Sumatra and the birthplace of Padang cuisine (Nasi
Padang), is a vibrant destination known for its Minangkabau culture and breathtaking
beaches for surfing. Whether a culture seeker, a nature or food lover, Padang is a hidden
gem waiting to be discovered. Scoot will operate four times weekly flights to Padang.

Shantou, a coastal city located in the province of Guangdong in China, is a destination with
deep cultural heritage and home to Chaoshan cuisine including marinated raw seafood.
Travellers may like to stroll down Shantou Small Park to see the memorial hall of Dr Sun Yat-
sen at Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion, or escape the city to bask in Nan Ao Island’s blue
skies, sandy beaches and majestic mountains. Scoot will operate three times weekly flights
to Shantou.

In addition to the new destinations, Scoot will be making some adjustments to its network to
better match capacity to demand and optimise fleet deployment.

Scoot will add two more weekly flights to Jakarta, bringing the total number of weekly flights
to 19 times weekly from 24 November 2024. Services to Koh Samui will be increased from
14 to 21 times weekly from 20 December 2024, and services to Davao will increase from five
times weekly to daily flights from 22 December 2024. Flights to Vientiane will increase from
four to five times weekly from 9 February 2025. Operations to Nanchang will be suspended
after the last flight on 14 February 2025.

With the launch of services to Phu Quoc, Padang and Shantou, Scoot will offer Malaysians
easier access to Asia’s hidden gems, with 31 weekly flights to three cities in Vietnam, 84
weekly flights to 11 cities in Indonesia and 89 weekly flights to 17 points in China by January
2025.

Flights to Phu Quoc, Padang and Shantou will be available for booking from today, via
Scoot’s website, mobile app, and progressively through other channels. One-way Economy
class fares 1 start from RM299 to Phu Quoc, RM269 to Padang, and RM409 to Shantou,
inclusive of taxes.

Mr Leslie Thng, Chief Executive Officer of Scoot said, “We are happy to announce the
introduction of flight services to Padang, Phu Quoc and Shantou, and hope to inspire more
travellers to discover the diverse experiences our new destinations have to offer. We will
continue to seek opportunities, expand our network and connect our customers to new travel
experiences.”

BURSA MALAYSIA CLIMATE WEEK 2024 FOCUSES ON SUSTAINABLE FINANCE AND EDUCATION

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Kuala Lumpur, 13 November 2024 – Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia” or “The Exchange”) recently concluded its inaugural Climate Week, held from 4 to 8 November 20240F1. Themed “From Aspiration to Action: Unlocking Green Financing,” the event aimed to create greater awareness and engage various stakeholders on sustainability-related matters, underscoring Bursa Malaysia’s commitment to advance sustainable development.

The curated events commenced with the symbolic “Ring the Bell for Climate” ceremony1F2 where exchanges around the globe demonstrate their united dedication to combat climate crisis and advance sustainability efforts. This opening act initiated a series of panel discussions, workshops, and community activities over the course of the week, aimed at enhancing understanding and discourse around sustainable finance and sustainability practices.

The Climate Week engaged a diverse audience of over 1,700 attendees comprising industry leaders, public listed companies (“PLCs”), startups, consulting firms, and the general public. Key highlights from the week include:

1. Launch of the Corporate Sustainability Practitioner (“CSP”) Competency Framework 2.0: Bursa Malaysia in collaboration with the United Nations Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei (“UNGCMYB”), launched the CSP Framework 2.0 on 7 November 2024 during the GO ESG Symposium 2024. This enhanced framework builds on the first version released in 2021, to enhance sustainability competencies across corporate roles, aiming to empower professionals with skills to navigate the complexities of Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) requirements. To learn more about the CSP Framework 2.0, visit https://bursasustain.bursamalaysia.com/competency-framework

2. IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards Workshop: In partnership with the United Nations Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative (“UN SSE”), International Finance Corporation (“IFC”), International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) Foundation, and Policy, Assumptions, Calculators, and Education (“PACE”), this virtual workshop addressed the critical need for standardised sustainability reporting, coinciding with the nationwide adoption of the recently launched National Sustainability Reporting Framework (“NSRF”)3F4. The workshop aimed to provide PLCs with knowledge needed to comply with IFRS S1 and S2 disclosure standards.

3. MYCentre4IR ESG Innovation Challenge 2024: In collaboration with the Malaysia Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution (“MYCentre4IR”), the conclusion of the Challenge saw five local and international startups awarded with bridge funding, to further develop their ESG-focused digital solutions, for potential future adoption by participating Malaysian PLCs. The Challenge drew over 100 submissions from entrepreneurs across 30 countries, leveraging UpLink, the World Economic Forum’s innovation platform.

4. Sustainability-themed Panel Discussions: With topics ranging from ‘Transition Finance for Supply Chain Companies’ to ‘Shaping Sustainability Leadership: Skills, Mindsets, and the Role of Education’, the panels provided a platform for thought leadership and practical insights to integrate sustainability into business strategies.

5. Community and Educational Engagements: Provided Bursa Malaysia staff and school children with deeper understanding of sustainability matters, via interactive activities like community gardening and climate games.

Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, Chief Executive officer of Bursa Malaysia acknowledged the wide support and interest, stating, “We extend our appreciation to the diverse group of partners and participants for contributing to the success of our inaugural Climate Week. Such initiatives are part of the Exchange’s efforts to foster a sustainable future by driving collaboration, innovation, and the adoption of robust ESG practices in the marketplace. Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient marketplace that balances economic growth with ESG progress.”

 

TRITERRA CELEBRATES TWO MAJOR WINS AT PROPERTYGURU ASIA AWARDS MALAYSIA

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – [Date] – TRITERRA has reached a pivotal moment in its journey, celebrating two outstanding honours at the prestigious PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia for The MET Corporate Towers. Recognised as Best Office Development and receiving the esteemed Best of Malaysia Special Honour: Best Commercial Development (Malaysia), The MET exemplifies visionary contributions to Malaysia’s dynamic business landscape. 

These awards signify more than just recognition—they reflect TRITERRA’s leadership in setting new benchmarks for commercial real estate and advancing Malaysia’s position as a hub for modern, sustainable business environments. Embracing world-class design, innovation, and operational excellence, The MET redefines what businesses can expect from their workspaces in Malaysia. The recognition underscores the visionary thinking behind The MET, setting a standard that goes beyond conventional office spaces by fostering growth, collaboration, and sustainability. 

By blending state-of-the-art facilities with sustainable practices, The MET Corporate Towers serves as a beacon of innovation, designed with purpose and responsibility. As companies continue to reimagine the workplace, TRITERRA is already a step ahead, understanding that successful business environments are those that anticipate and accommodate change. The developer’s innovative approach addresses the shifting demands of a modern workforce, prioritising well-being, efficiency, and connectivity within a future-ready infrastructure. 

“TRITERRA has always aimed to exceed expectations,” remarked Christopher Lim, Chief Executive Officer of TRITERRA. “Our vision has been to create more than a building; we’re creating an ecosystem where businesses thrive, new ideas flourish, and lasting connections are built. This recognition from PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia reinforces our commitment to that vision, and we’re thrilled to share this honour with our exceptional team, supportive partners, and the wider community.” 

In a rapidly evolving business world, The MET provides a space that supports the adaptability, flexibility, and technological integration modern companies require. Its sustainable design incorporates green building practices and energy-efficient technologies, setting a new benchmark for responsible development. 

“The future of commercial real estate will be shaped by the ability to merge sustainability with functionality and flexibility,” added Lim “We’re committed to leading this change, offering not only premier office spaces but also a thriving community where businesses can expand, innovate, and adapt seamlessly. The MET Corporate Towers embodies this vision, and these awards inspire us to continue setting new standards for Malaysia’s business community.”

Zurich Takaful Malaysia Launches MediAfya+: Comprehensive Medical Plan with Takaful Term 80 for Long-Term Protection

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KUALA LUMPUR, 11 November 2024 – Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad (ZTMB) is excited to introduce MediAfya+, an innovative medical plan designed to offer comprehensive protection, ensuring Malaysians are prepared for life’s unexpected health challenges. This plan, when paired with Takaful Term 80, provides long-term security and peace of mind with an annual coverage limit of up to RM1,000,000.

As part of the launch celebrations, ZTMB hosted the “Power Up Hidupmu dengan MediAfya+” event on 2 November 2024 at Marina Putrajaya. The event featured a range of engaging activities, including cardio boxing sessions, interactive booths, and expert health insights, making it a fun and informative day for attendees. Guests also had the chance to win RM100 Touch ‘n Go eWallet credits through rezeki draws.

In today’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape, MediAfya+ addresses the concerns of Malaysians by providing coverage that spans both emergency treatment and long-term care needs, ensuring customers are well-prepared for any situation. With Takaful Term 80, customers will be provided medical coverage that extends up to age of 80, making it ideal for individuals seeking a balance of affordability and comprehensive protection.

Fatihah Mustafa, Chief Executive Officer of ZTMB, said, “Healthcare protection is not just about covering medical bills. It’s about giving people the confidence to live life fully, knowing they are prepared for the unexpected. MediAfya+ represents Zurich Malaysia’s commitment to providing solutions that truly care for what matters, offering comprehensive protection with the flexibility that today’s customers seek.”

Key Features* of MediAfya+:

  • Comprehensive Protection: Includes pre and post-hospitalisation, out-patient care, and global Emergency Assistance, covering medical, travel, car and home support.
  • High Annual Limit: Up to RM1,000,000 in coverage per year, with no lifetime limit, offering long-term financial security.
  • Hassle-Free Hospital Admission: Expedited admission process at panel hospitals ensures timely and efficient care.
  • Flexibility: Choose between two plans with Deductibles of RM500 or RM5,000, tailored to fit different budgets and coverage needs.
  • Waiver and Deductible: Emergency treatments and government health care facilities are eligible for waivers, reducing out-of-pocket costs during treatment.

In response to overwhelming demand, ZTMB is delighted to announce the launch of Year End Campaign – ‘Cashback Syok’ till 30 December 2024. This campaign offers customers the opportunity to benefit from MediAfya+ with Takaful Term 80, and as an added incentive, customers will receive up to 2 months cashback depending on the contribution mode. This offer underscores ZTMB’s commitment to enhancing its customers’ healthcare experiences by providing extra benefits along with financial protection.

For more details on the MediAfya+, please visit the official website at https://www.zurich.com.my/takaful-products/protection/for-my-health/mediafya-plus.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Getting a Good Deal For Online Shopping With Omnichannel Solutions

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Malaysians just love discounts, and monthly sales events like 11.11 are the perfect example of that. As the sales period rolls around, shoppers eagerly anticipate the slashed prices and irresistible promotions, whether it is to hunt down a long-desired item or spontaneously adding to cart. 

However, amid this shopping frenzy, customers often face challenges that can dampen the excitement. Slow loading websites, forgotten carts, and delayed customer support can turn the shopping experience from fun to frustrating. Depending on the frequency, some platforms may face a lot of negative feedback from customers – driving a wrench for shoppers and sellers alike. 

With that in mind, how can businesses turn these challenges into opportunities, and streamline the ecommerce experience for their customer?

This is where an omnichannel approach makes for the perfect solution. This new system within the ecommerce world revolves around the integration of different interaction methods to customers. Here in Malaysia, WhatsApp has  up to 13.8 million users which is a substantial sum of potential customers waiting to be nudged. In fact, a record surge can be seen last year with over 8.2 billion messages being sent during Cyber Week over mobile-friendly, conversational channels, showcasing just how essential it is to stay connected across multiple touchpoints.

Here’s how omnichannel solutions can deliver a seamless shopping experience for both businesses and shoppers:

Elevating Promotions with Multi-Platform Messages

Getting the word out on current promotions is one of the key parts to capture customer interest and driving sales. Omnichannel platforms enable businesses to share offers, product launches, and updates across various social channels at once, making sure no one misses out on the fun. 

Picture this: a shopper browses a store in person, spots an item they like, and decides to wait for an upcoming sale. By following the brand on Instagram, they later receive a notification about a sale which includes that very item. After their purchase, the brand keeps them updated via WhatsApp and email, ensuring the item arrives safely. This seamless communication ecosystem makes the entire shopping process cohesive and keeps customers engaged with the brand at all times.

Timely Reminders to Boost Conversions

Speaking of time, a smooth shopping journey is not just about promotions – it is about maintaining customer interest until the very second they complete a purchase. In fact, 63% of people start their shopping online but nearly half still prefer making their final purchase in-store. Omnichannel platforms excel in this area by providing smart reminders to prompt customers in every step of the way. Tailored notifications and prompts can tap into customers’ past browsing behaviour or previous purchases to help them stay connected to products they love. This includes back-in-stock alerts, sale notifications, or abandoned cart nudges, which can make all the difference in turning a browser into a buyer.

Instant Updates for Transparent Transactions

Another important factor about online shopping is keeping customers informed to build trust. Omnichannel platforms shine in this area by providing real-time notifications that ensure customers are aware of every step of their order journey. From confirmation emails to tracking details and delivery updates, these instant notifications help alleviate any worries customers might have about their purchase.

Beyond the transaction itself, notifications about loyalty programmes, upcoming promotions or special rewards can also deepen customer engagement. Even a simple post-purchase survey can become a great way for businesses to collect feedback and fine-tune their offerings – making sure that they continue to offer the best services for the customers when they return. 

24/7 Support with AI-Powered Assistance

The online world moves fast, and customers expect support that moves just as quickly. Thanks to the advancements in AI, businesses can now provide round-the-clock assistance that enhances the overall shopping experience. AI-driven chatbots can handle everything from answering FAQs to more complex tasks like providing document provisioning – making customer support both efficient and accessible.

Automating certain processes also reduces operational costs while ensuring customers receive timely responses. For more intricate inquiries, these bots can pass the conversations to human agents, empowering businesses to deliver superior customer service. This perfect blend of AI and human expertise strengthens customer relationships and ensures that no question goes unanswered.

At the end of the day, ecommerce remains a highly competitive world. Businesses that decide to equip themselves with omnichannel platforms can create a shopping experience that is smooth, satisfying, and frustration-free – even during the hustle and bustle of high-traffic sales periods like the upcoming 11.11 event. By integrating these nifty tools, businesses can not only address common customer pain points but also foster stronger relationships and build lasting loyalty. The result? Happier customers and a healthier bottom line for all businesses.