Month: <span>November 2024</span>

GEN STARZ RESIDENCES: WHERE HERITAGE MEETS THE FUTURE

Posted on 11/11/202431/07/2026 by admin

Old Klang Road is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most vibrant and historic thoroughfares. It has long
been a dynamic hub of energy, where the established rich texture of the community is infused
with a new zeal for life. This evolution ensures continuity in culture, commerce, and
convenience, enhancing the area livability and marking the introduction of Gen Starz
Residences as a significant addition to Old Klang Road’s vibrant community.

The enduring vibrancy of the neighbourhood makes it the perfect bustling backdrop for Majestic
Gen to introduce Gen Starz Residences, the newest addition to reinvigorate urban living on Old
Klang Road, in the heart of Klang Valley. This innovative development will redefine modern
living while honouring the neighbourhood rich legacy.

Occupying a niche pocket in the dynamic Old Klang Road corridor, Gen Starz Residences is a
freehold, low-density development offering 360 handsomely designed serviced apartments.
With a gross development value (GDV) of RM 272 million, this project serves as the headlining
feather in the cap of Majestic Gen’s burgeoning portfolio and a significant milestone that is
strategised to cater for the growing demand for an infusion of sophisticated urban living
propositions that assimilates well into existing mature neighbourhoods.

SHINING BEACON

Gen Starz Residences draws inspiration from the close-knit community of Old Klang Road. The
overarching design captures the spirit of the people and the character of the neighbourhood,
blending contemporary living with the nostalgic charm of this beloved area. Building upon this
rich local heritage, the Chroma-Vista theme celebrates a vibrant and enriching lifestyle, merging
bold colours with stunning vistas to create a holistic development that radiates energy and
warmth from every corner.

“Gen Starz Residences reflects our vision of creating spaces where every resident is allowed to
thrive and shine on their own accord, said Dato’ Hoo Kim See, CEO of Majestic Gen, “The
shining ‘Star’ represents a recurring starring role in a great locale with a supporting cast of a
lively, modern lifestyle that is in line with our tagline of ‘Sparkles every Hour’ that enhances the
appeal of a home with a cohesive charm, no matter the time of day.”

This is evident in the building, which is intentionally composed of linear and yet free-flowing
forms that mirror the diverse connections made in the greater community, symbolising the
journey of individuals coming together to foster meaningful relationships.

The residence is designed to cater towards a youthful and creative congregation, promoting
new entrepreneurial ventures, holistic education for the new generation, and cultural exchange,
all within a space that seamlessly integrates urban convenience with diverse requirements and
needs.

MEASURED FIT

At Gen Starz Residences, flexibility and modularity meet modern living with three thoughtfully
designed layout options, each crafted to fit diverse lifestyles and increasingly preferred work-
from-home preferences. For instance, Type A, with its compact 650 sq ft layout, features two
rooms and one bath, making it an ideal choice for young professionals (or couples) seeking a
stylish yet efficient space. For those who desire a bit more room, Type B offers a generous 756
sq ft space, complete with two rooms and two baths, providing extra comfort and much-needed
privacy. For families and individuals who value spacious living, Type C is the perfect solution. Its
large 874 sq ft layout includes three rooms and two cosy baths, offering more than ample space
for growth and activities.

”What sets Gen Starz Residences apart from other residences is our innovative use of flexible
walls,“ added Hoo. ”These manoeuvrable walls allow residents to customise and transform their
living spaces as their familial needs evolve. Whether you wish to modify the layout temporarily
for an open-concept space for gatherings or create more permanent private areas with
partitions, our adaptable walls allow you to shape your home exactly as you envisioned it,
without too much hassle, thus reflecting and reinventing your own unique lifestyle as you wish.“

NATURAL DESIGN

It is with great pride that Gen Starz Residences has attained a Provisional GreenRE rating in
the residential category, solidifying Majestic Gen’s commitment to eco-friendly, sustainable
living solutions and applications.

A key feature is its commitment to renewable energy, with 30% of the roof space dedicated to
photovoltaic solar panels. Additionally, energy-efficient air conditioning, fans, and roof insulation
have been carefully selected to meet strict energy-saving requirements. This approach,
combined with enhanced ventilation, ensures optimal air quality in both individual units and
common areas, including wet spaces frequently used by residents.

A strong indicator of its green focus, Gen Starz Residences offers residents abundant natural
light and expansive green spaces. Open lawns and the tranquil Little Forest provide a serene
living environment for everyone to enjoy.

Coupled with energy-efficient lifts and water-saving fixtures, such as flushing cisterns, these
features further enhance the development’s sustainability focus. The use of green construction
materials and responsible waste management underscores Majestic Gen’s dedication to
reducing environmental impact while ensuring deliverables are met, and that residents can
move into their units on schedule.

The Modern Contemporary landscape concept at Gen Starz Residences focuses on creating
open and functional spaces with clean lines and minimalist designs, resulting in a spacious and
uncluttered environment. Elegant water features and sculptural elements enhance the visual
appeal of this serene oasis, complementing the overall modern aesthetic while incorporating
natural materials and contrasting colours. This thoughtful approach extends to the planned
greenery, which is manicured to be symmetrical yet distinctive, further accentuating the
landscape and providing a sense of proportion and balance. The result is an outdoor space that
is both elegant and inviting, offering residents a harmonious retreat amidst the urban
environment.

EVERYDAY EXTRAORDINARY

Gen Starz Residences boasts an impressive array of amenities across three levels that are
meant to elevate the living experience to new heights. The podium deck offers a panoramic
360° Outdoor Gym, where residents can enjoy a workout with stunning city views at their beck
and call, before they take a dip in the Infinity Swimming Pool for a healthy dose of recuperation
and relaxation.

For social gatherings, the Multipurpose Hall and BBQ Area are perfect for hosting events whilst
the Sundeck Lounge and Jacuzzi provide ideal spots for unwinding. The development also
features a Movie Corner for film enthusiasts and a Reading & Working Corner, catering
specifically to habitual readers, students, and those who work from home. To relax and
recharge, the Sky Lounge and the Chillax Corner will provide amazing settings for free-and-
easy sessions with friends and family. Each facility is thoughtfully curated to blend accessible
luxury and functionality, enhancing every aspect of modern living.

MAKING THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS

Gen Starz Residences is strategically located to connect its residents with the best urban
amenities, all conveniently within a 5km radius. Situated near lively commercial hubs such as
Kuchai Business Centre and Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park, the locale is also bustling with
shopping and lifestyle options, with destinations such as The Scott Garden, Old Klang Road
Market, Pearl Point Shopping Mall, The Mid Valley Megamall, Gardens Mall, NSK Trade City,
and NU Sentral providing a diverse array of dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences at
your doorstep.

Access to healthcare is also convenient, with top-tier facilities like KMI Taman Desa Medical
Centre, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, and University of Malaya Medical Centre located nearby.
These institutions ensure that the highest standards of medical care are within reach if and
when required.

There are also top schools like Kingsbee Preschool, SJK (C) Choong Wen, Sri Desa
International School, Newton International College, Vikas International School, and SJK (C) La
Salle just minutes away, ensuring quality education for couples looking to raise and provide the
best for their new brood. For recreational activities, there’s the nearby Sports Arena Sentosa
and Taman Rimba Bukit Kerinchi, which offer options to stay active and enjoy nature.

It’s undeniable that Gen Starz Residences’ standout feature is its excellent connectivity.
Positioned adjacent to the proposed MRT3 line, future residents will enjoy even greater access
to the rest of Klang Valley and beyond. Current transport links include nearby MRT Kuchai and
KTM Pantai Dalam stations, allowing seamless travel across the rest of Kuala Lumpur.

Major highways such as the BESRAYA Highway, DUKE 3 Expressway, East-West Link
Expressway, KESAS Highway, MRR2, MEX Highway, New Pantai Expressway, Seremban
Highway, and SMART Tunnel provide easy road access, ensuring residents are well-connected
to all parts of the city and interstate travel.

For more information, log on to www.majesticgen.com.my.

Maxim E-hailing Launches a New Rate to Support People with Special Needs

Posted on 11/11/2024 by admin

According to the statistics, “special people represent 16%of the world’s population or ⅙ of people who also need fair transportation and facilities.” They need to move around for various everyday activities, like going to work or hospital appointments, attending training courses, and visiting friends. That’s why they need fair transportation, a convenient, affordable, and socially friendly service.

Maxim E-hailing has recently introduced a new rate called “Mesra OKU” in their app to show their support and cater to the special needs of such people. It is designed to help special people get comfortable rides. The new rate includes additional assistance services and facilities.

With Mesra OKU, the waiting period after the partner-driver arrives at the pick-up location is extended by additional five minutes. This allows passengers to slowly get in the car, without having to be in a rush or worry about additional costs for keeping the driver waiting for too long. Maxim understands that some people who use wheelchairs, walking frames, walking sticks, and other mobility aids need more time to reach the vehicle.

This rate also allows clients to take their pets with them for the ride without any additional charges. Passengers with disabilities can inform drivers about their four-legged travel companion in advance by messaging or calling them through the app. Moreover, the app also has a speech recognition feature for people with vision impairments who can book rides using their own voice instead of relying upon others. This speech recognition feature of the app is a useful addition designed to make the special clients more independent; it’s also a step towards Maxim Malaysia’s commitment to creating a user-friendly app.

Not only that, but Maxim also briefs and educates its partner-drivers on how to work with disabled passengers and ensure their comfort during rides. Passengers are to receive help from drivers without any charges and to be allowed to keep their helping tools at the back of the vehicle.

“At Maxim, we believe that inclusivity is key, and we’re excited to be able to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Whether it’s for routine activities, medical appointments, or social engagements, we hope to provide a seamless, stress-free experience that helps improve mobility and comfort of our OKU passengers. We are continually striving to create a transportation ecosystem that is accessible to all,” said the Director of Maxim Malaysia, Mohd Hazwan Musley.

“E-hailing is the main mode of transportation for the community of blind people, and we need it on a daily basis for our routine activities, like going to work or moving from one location to another. It is very convenient for us to use e-hailing because of its comfort and safety, as it offers us direct transportation from one location to another. Previously, we used to rely a lot on buses, but there were several incidents where it proved to be a bit hard for us to arrive at the exact location we needed,” said Adzohari Jamil from the Sarawak Society for the Blind.

Maxim E-hailing is a socially friendly service that takes care of people. Recently, the service collaborated with two local entities and provided free rides for their members: The Sarawak Society for the Blind and the para swimmers team (during Para-Sukma 2024). This enabled the beneficiaries to move around and complete daily tasks with more convenience.

How to place an order:

Select the “Mesra Oku” rate in the “Passenger Cars” section in the Maxim app and enjoy your ride.

The app is available on the following platforms: Google Play Store, App Store, Huawei AppGallery, GetApps, Oppo App Market, Vivo App Store, and Galaxy Store.

The mission of the service is to constantly improve user interaction and help people move towards their goals!

TNG eWallet and TERA Partner to Bring Affordable Solar Solutions to Malaysians

Posted on 08/11/202431/07/2026 by admin

TNG Digital Sdn. Bhd. (‘TNG Digital’), Malaysia’s largest integrated fintech player, has teamed up with TERA VA Sdn. Bhd. (‘TERA’), a solar solutions provider, to make renewable energy more accessible and affordable. This collaboration seeks to bring the vision of a greener future to the homes of all Malaysians.

Installing solar panels on rooftops enables the generation of clean, renewable energy, reduces our carbon footprint, and supports a more sustainable energy future. Through this partnership, Malaysians gain convenient access to home solar energy solutions via TNG eWallet, enabling them to optimise unused roof space for long-term savings.

This initiative also aligns with TNG Digital’s “Our Planet” sustainability pillar, reinforcing its commitment to corporate carbon neutrality through the support of green initiatives and environmental conservation activities within its operations and the communities it serves. These efforts are further strengthened through collaborations with like-minded organisations like TERA.

Alan Ni, Chief Executive Officer of TNG Digital, stated, “With over 22 million verified TNG eWallet users, we recognise the responsibility we carry to positively impact both our communities and the environment. This strategic partnership combines TNG eWallet’s platform and reach with TERA’s advanced solar technology to empower Malaysians and drive sustainable energy adoption. Through this strategic partnership, TNG eWallet brings the platform and reach to empower Malaysians, while TERA brings advanced solar technology to drive sustainable energy adoption. Together, we make it easier for Malaysians to transition to greener solutions, aligning with our #GoNetPositive mission. This collaboration is another step toward integrating sustainability into our ecosystem, combining convenience, accessibility, and environmental responsibility.”

Installing a home solar system not only helps create a greener environment but also allows homeowners to save up to 99% on electricity bills1. With a return on investment of about 4.5 years2, it delivers substantial long-term financial benefits. Partnering with a trusted solar solutions provider ensures strict quality standards and efficient engineering designs that maximise rooftop space while leveraging the latest technology to reduce the total cost of ownership.

TERA specialises in customer-centric solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions that generate long-term value for users. Registered with the Energy Commission and Sustainable Energy Development Authority, the company has delivered 100,000 kWp across 2,000 premises in Peninsular Malaysia covering residential rooftops, commercial & industrial and large-scale projects. TERA also holds internationally recognised ISO 9001:2015 quality management system certification and comply to MS 1837:2018 for installation of grid connected PV systems.

TERA Managing Director Michael Leong said, “Established since 2011, we bring over 13 years of experience and expertise from large-scale solar PV installations to homeowners. Our dedicated engineers understand each rooftop and home electricity use case is unique, and we provide a tailored approach to optimise long-term benefits. We employ the ‘S.M.A.R.T.’ framework that focuses on Safety, Measurability, Accuracy, Responsiveness, and Technology to ensure customers enjoy faster returns and greater value over a longer period. This collaboration with TNG Digital creates value for all parties, enhances quality of life, and progresses us towards an environmentally sustainable society.”

The collaborative initiative is closely aligned with the Malaysian Government’s goals for promoting renewable energy towards the net-zero ambition. In the recent Budget 2025 announcement, the government introduced measures to boost solar energy adoption. Notably, the Net Energy Metering (NEM) programme has been extended until 30 June 2025 to encourage more individuals to install rooftop solar panels.

The parties are confident that this collaboration will significantly enhance the lives of Malaysians. To further drive the adoption of renewable energy, this partnership provides an exclusive offer available only to TNG eWallet users, making sustainable energy solutions more affordable.

From 6 November 2024 to 31 January 2025, users who purchase a TERA Solar System through TNG eWallet will enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on the recommended retail price (RRP), plus an instant RM200 cashback on the RM1,000 deposit. Additionally, users will receive an extra RM1,000 cashback upon completing the full project payment.

To learn more about TERA’s home solar solution via TNG eWallet, visit https://tngd.tera.solar

Corporate and Institutional Investors Gain Access to New Cash and Liquidity Management Solution

Posted on 08/11/2024 by admin

Maybank Islamic Asset Management Sdn Bhd (“MIAM”) today announced the launch of its wholesale fund, the Maybank Islamic Strategic Income Fund (“MISI Fund”), developed in strategic collaboration with Maybank Islamic Berhad.

The MISI Fund is designed to enhance corporate and institutional investors’ cash and liquidity management needsby offering a Shariah-compliant solution with the potential to generate net returns of up to 3.7% – 3.8% per annum. The Fund also provides a high level of liquidity, offering T+1 business day redemption, providing quick access to funds¹.

The MISI Fund aims to provide investors with a consistent income stream by investing a minimum of 30% of the Fund’s net asset value (NAV) in MYR-denominated sukuk with a minimum credit rating of AA3 by RAM or an equivalent rating by MARC and up to 70% of the Fund’s NAV in Islamic liquid assets. These liquid assets comprise Islamic money market instruments and Islamic deposits, with 45% of the Fund invested in Maybank Islamic’s General Investment Account (“GIA”).

GIA is a Term Investment Account product offered by Maybank Islamic with the investment objective to provide stable returns through low to moderate risk investment into a portfolio of the Bank’s financing assets such as mortgage financing, hire purchase, Unit Trust financing and SME financing. The MISI Fund, through GIA invests in Maybank Islamic’s strong and highquality financing assets. This can help investors to mitigate the downside risks in adverse market condition and provide a steady income stream to the investment portfolio.

Belqaizi Taufik, Chief Executive Officer of Maybank Islamic Asset Management Sdn Bhd, said, “The launch of the Maybank Islamic Strategic Income Fund marks an exciting milestone for MIAM as we introduce our first Shariah-compliant liquidity management solution. With a target AUM of RM200 million in FY2024, this Fund underscores our leadership in Shariah-compliant asset management and highlights the strength of our collaboration with Maybank Islamic. We believe that the MISI Fund will offer corporate and institutional investors higher potential tax-exempted returns and high liquidity through investments in Sukuk, Shariah-compliant money market instruments, and the General Investment Account in collaboration with Maybank Islamic.”

BURSA MALAYSIA TO HOLD FLAGSHIP MARKETPLACE FAIR IN SARAWAK

Posted on 07/11/2024 by admin

Kuala Lumpur, 4 November 2024 — Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia” or “the Exchange”) will be hosting its flagship retail investment event, Bursa Marketplace Fair 2024 (“Marketplace Fair”) at Vivacity Megamall in Kuching this Saturday and Sunday, 9 – 10 November 2024.

Bursa Marketplace Fair will be officiated by YB Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Deputy Premier, Second Minister for Finance and New Economy, and Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Sarawak. The event is part of Bursa Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to promote financial literacy and encourage a culture of active learning and informed investing among the Malaysian public.

Highlights of Bursa Marketplace Fair Sarawak 2024

The Marketplace Fair, themed “Invest Today, Powering the Future,” welcomes all visitors, from beginners to seasoned investors. It features curated talks aimed at enhancing knowledge towards effective financial planning and wealth creation. Attendees will also gain insights into investment opportunities across various investment asset classes or types available through Bursa Malaysia — including stocks, exchange-traded funds, structured warrants, derivatives, and gold. More than a dozen key stakeholders in the

capital market, including the Securities Commission Malaysia, investment banks, brokers, and public-listed companies, will be present at the fair to provide visitors with investment related advice and services. Topics covered will range from investing fundamentals to technical analysis for developing investment strategies. In addition to capital market talks, a variety of fun activities and games will be available for visitors to enjoy.

Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, Chief Executive Officer of Bursa Malaysia said, “The Exchange firmly believes in promoting financial literacy and a culture of investing as part of prudent financial planning. With a population of over 2.5 million, Sarawak currently has 48,000 users who maintain an active Central Depository System (CDS) account, which represents only 1.9% of the state’s population. From January to September this year, 5,100 new CDS accounts were from Sarawakians, which amounts to over 4% of the approximately 115,000 CDS accounts opened nationwide in the same period.”

“This presents a significant untapped investor base in the state, and highlights the need for more Sarawakians to begin or diversify their types of investments. It is thus timely for the Bursa Marketplace Fair to be held in Kuching to equip locals with investing knowledge, and to increasing their participation in opportunities in our vibrant capital market.”

The Marketplace Fair presents an avenue for investors to explore digital tools and platforms as well as other resources to facilitate and empower them in their investment journey. Some of these include:

Burmon Trader — An interactive game designed to teach kids (as young as 8 years old) on trading and financial literacy, in a fun and engaging way
Bursa Anywhere app — ASEAN’s first mobile central depository services electronic platform
MyBURSA — A one-stop customer-centric platform that offers personalised services and seamless interactions to help investors in their investment journey • Bursa REACH — A profiling platform dedicated to improve connections between investors and dealer’s representatives (DRs)
Bursa Gold Dinar — A Shariah-compliant gold trading platform that offers investors the convenience of investing in gold through a mobile app, starting from just RM10 • BR Capital — A platform that provides investors with access to fresh fixed income investment opportunities (from as low as RM100), while supporting growth plans of unlisted or listed companies

The Marketplace Fair in Kuching marks the first time the Exchange’s retail investment fair is being held in Sarawak. It also marks the fourth physical Marketplace Fair held outside Kuala Lumpur, following previous editions in Penang (2019), Johor Bahru (2023), and Kota Kinabalu (May 2024). This upcoming fair is expected to draw over 2,000 attendees.

The event is free to attend and open to the public, with giveaway prizes awaiting visitors. Registration is available both online and on-site at the fair. To learn more about the Bursa Marketplace Fair Sarawak 2024, visit https://www.bursamarketplace.com/bursa marketplace-fair/

Funding Societies secures third credit facility with HSBC to extend access to MSMEs in Southeast Asia

Posted on 07/11/2024 by admin

KUALA LUMPUR, 5 November 2024 – Funding Societies | Modalku (Funding Societies), the largest unified digital finance platform for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Southeast Asia today announced signing the third credit facility* with HSBC under its ASEAN Growth Fund. The overall transaction, an accumulative commitment of over US$100 million (RM436 million), also includes the two annual credit facilities extended to Funding Societies, reaffirms HSBC’s continued support for MSMEs through the platform since 2022.

This transaction, which is amongst HSBC’s largest asset-backed secured facilities extended to digital SME lenders in Southeast Asia, will further deepen and extend Funding Societies’ reach to providing credit access to underserved MSME segments in the region.

While the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has grown its middle-class and gained tremendous traction in terms of increasing access to formal banking services and digitalising its commercial environment, the region still has a US$2.5 trillion (RM10.9 trillion) credit access gap, making up over half of the global shortfall in small business financing1. To put into perspective, up to 99.9% of enterprises are MSMEs contributing to 35% to 69% of each country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Co-founder and Group CEO of Funding Societies, Kelvin Teo, said, “The continued support from a global bank such as HSBC is a testament to its commitment to support the development of digital platform businesses such as ours and MSMEs as we ride through a two-decade high interest rates impacting the global economy. This enables us to further explore scalable debt financing for growth and profitability, and bolster financial inclusion for the underbanked and underserved SMEs in the region.”

As part of its ASEAN Growth Fund strategy, this transaction underlines a scalable solution to allow and enable digital lenders like Funding Societies to raise additional equity capital and debt financing through different channels. Furthermore, HSBC will act as the structuring bank, lender, account bank, FX counterparty, facility and security agent in providing a scalable and pan-regional financing solution to support Funding Societies’ business expansion in the region.

Harish Venkatesan, Head of Corporates and Business Banking, HSBC Singapore, said, “As an early-starter and a leading MSME digital financing player in ASEAN, we are pleased to provide our third credit facility for Funding Societies, cumulatively in excess of US$100 million (RM436 million). This will enable us to continue supporting its efforts to provide financing support to micro, small and medium enterprises which will contribute to the building blocks of societies in the ASEAN region. We look forward to continuing support for Funding Societies as they grow their business and for the underlying MSMEs in the region through the HSBC ASEAN Growth Fund.”

The US$1 billion (RM4.4 billion) HSBC ASEAN Growth Fund was launched in March 2024 to enable Singapore-based digital platform businesses supporting e-commerce in the region to achieve economies of scale across multiple international markets, grow their asset portfolios, and advance along the corporate lifecycle. Together with the New Economy and Venture Debt Fund, HSBC Singapore offers a comprehensive suite of financing solutions for new economy businesses across different stages of growth3.

This announcement comes at the heels of Funding Societies’ most recent strategic investments from Maybank in September.

Since its inception in 2015, Funding Societies has disbursed over US$4 billion (RM17.4 billion) in business financing, positively impacting more than 100,000 businesses across Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, as well as processed an annualised US$1.4 billion (RM6.1 billion) payments GTV (gross transaction value) since its entry into payments in late 2022.

Join the Sustainable Action Conference 2024 and Be a Part of Real Change!

Posted on 06/11/2024 by admin

Control Union Malaysia invites you to attend the Sustainable Action Conference (SAC 2024), hosted on 21st November 2024 at the Sunway Resort Hotel and is available online. This year’s conference is all about taking concrete steps toward a sustainable future—transforming pledges into impactful actions.

SAC 2024 brings together leaders from a wide range of sectors, including government, finance, manufacturing, energy, and construction, to address pressing sustainability challenges, share innovative solutions, and form valuable collaborations. Join us for this unique opportunity to hear success stories, engage with new sustainability trends, and get involved in project funding polling sessions.

As an attendee, you’ll gain access to:

-Inspiring presentations from industry experts

-Have a vote in funding sustainable project

-Networking sessions with sustainability pioneers across industries

-Live project pitches with audience voting to support impactful initiatives

By participating, you’ll connect with like-minded professionals and contribute to the momentum driving sustainable change across industries. Whether you’re attending in person or joining virtually, your presence at SAC 2024 signifies your commitment to sustainability and the potential for meaningful impact. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a global movement toward sustainability! Secure your spot today and help shape a sustainable future.

For more information or to register, contact us at bdcumalaysia@controlunion.com or visit our website: https://sustainableactionconference.com/

Together, let’s transform commitments into actions!

An Unwanted Cure for People and the Planet

Posted on 05/11/202431/07/2026 by admin

By PF Khong

While society continues to grapple with changing attitudes, studies from across the globe have clearly shown that rubbish bins, toilets and sinks remain the most popular disposal methods for unwanted medications in homes, with little consideration given to the environmental impact of these “tiny bits” of pharmaceutical compounds.

A PRESSING ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN

This is a universal, perennial problem and is not limited to any single person, place or product. Aside from complex factors of pharmacokinetics, improperly disposed pharmaceuticals allow these compounds to enter the environment and eventually contaminate surface waters. Pharmaceutical concentrations detected in surface waters are relatively low compared to other major environmental pollutants and occurs across continents. However, the continuous discharge of low-concentration residual active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) into sewage systems and waterways, even in small quantities over time, will inevitably affect the environment, humans and aquatic wildlife to some degree, raising broader environmental concerns.

Over the longer term, these residual hormonal, psychotropic drugs and antibiotics may eventually lead to the collapse or destruction of fish, animal and microorganism populations. This issue arises as medicines are excreted or discarded at landfills or sewage systems, where sewage treatment plant processes are unable to remove all improperly disposed pharmaceuticals.

The presence of pharmaceuticals in the environment is not a new phenomenon and green initiatives have been continually introduced, with various sustainable policies and frameworks set in place by international organisations and local governments across different countries. These efforts align with current trends such as green pharmaceuticals and green community programmes.

In the foreseeable future, the use of pharmaceuticals is only expected to increase, perpetuating the rising prevalence in medication wastage due to various factors, including over-ordering, over-prescription, changes in medication regimes, non-adherence to prescriptions and patient deaths. Thus, it is not surprising that a portion of the medications accumulating in home cabinets will eventually find its way into the trash.

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EQ Reinforces Commitment to Sustainability with Tesla Destination Charging Station

Posted on 05/11/202431/07/2026 by admin

EQ Kuala Lumpur, a leading hospitality destination strengthened its commitment to sustainability as the latest location to join Tesla’s list of Tesla Destination Charging Stations.

The announcement of the collaboration sees three charging stations situated at LG1 basement parking of the hotel for electric vehicles (EV) guests. This simple initiative makes a significant step towards creating a more sustainable and eco-conscious travel experience. The hotel also recently achieved a Gold rating under Malaysia’s Green Building Index, underscoring their broader environmental goals to a greener future.

Test drive sessions were also conducted for three days from 23 to 27 October, with a pop-up in the hotel lobby to showcase the latest technology to Equitorial Plaza tenants, EQ guests and patrons.

Nationwide, Tesla provides 12 Supercharging stations with 56 Superchargers and 14 Destination Charging stations with 72 Destination chargers to cater to the charging needs from different regions.

RHB HONOURS 60 #JOMBIZ MICRO-ENTREPRENEURS AT ANNUAL AWARDS CEREMONY

Posted on 04/11/2024 by admin

Kuala Lumpur – RHB Banking Group (“RHB” or the “Group”) recently hosted its annual RHB #JomBiz Awards Ceremony to recognise the achievements of 60 micro-entrepreneurs who form the third and fourth cohort of the programme.

RHB #JomBiz is a socio-economic empowerment programme that is transforming the lives of micro-entrepreneurs from the B40 and underserved communities, providing them with the tools and support needed to build sustainable businesses.

Aligned with RHB’s Sustainability Strategy and Roadmap, the #JomBiz programme offers comprehensive support to micro-entrepreneurs, including capability building, mentorship, and seed funding. Since its launch in 2022, RHB has invested nearly RM1 million to support close to 470 local micro-entrepreneurs, with over 320 businesses empowered in 2023 alone.

This year’s Cohorts 3 and 4 Top 3 businesses are:

Cohort 3	1^st Place	Perdagangan Ahmaz, supplier of healthy ready-to-eat food
	2^nd Place	Mamayaya Enterprise, supplier of ready-to-eat sambal dendeng, spiced chicken, fish paste, and marinades
	3^rd Place	Seri Baya Sdn Bhd, provider of cupping therapy (bekam) and facial spa services
Cohort 4	1^st Place	Misscreative Enterprise, brownies baker
	2^nd Place	Zamzum Global, supplier of asam pedas and sambal cooking paste
	3^rd Place	Global Aerogel Nanotech (M) Sdn Bhd, supplier of duck meat and eggs, as well as traditional food and kuih

Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, Group Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer of RHB Banking Group, said, “We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our RHB #JomBiz winners. By empowering micro-entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources to build resilient businesses that contribute to the nation’s economic growth, this programme is aligned with RHB’s aspiration of empowering over two million individuals and businesses across ASEAN by 2026, advancing financial inclusion to maximise socioeconomic impact and drive sustainable value for all stakeholders.”

By providing a holistic approach encompassing capability building, mentorship, emotional support, and knowledge on environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) integration, RHB #JomBiz has helped participants achieve an average sales increase of over 35% within three months of receiving funding. These impressive results not only demonstrate the programme’s effectiveness in enhancing the financial resilience of micro-entrepreneurs but also the tangible impact it has on their lives, contributing to overall social well-being.

In keeping with RHB’s brand promise, ‘Together We Progress’, the RHB #JomBiz programme empowers disadvantaged micro-businesses, including single parents and persons with disabilities. It equips participants with the skills to build resilient businesses, increase income, and navigate challenging economic conditions through a holistic approach encompassing financial, business, and emotional well-being modules. The programme also incorporates an ‘Intro to ESG’ module, guiding micro-SMEs on sustainable business practices.