Wednesday, 5 August 2026 Stay informed. No noise.

Kajian Shopee dedah pembeli Malaysia kini seimbangkan harga dan kualiti

Rakyat Malaysia masih berhati-hati dengan perbelanjaan mereka, namun kini mereka juga meneliti strim langsung dan video produk sebelum membuat pembelian. Menurut tinjauan pengguna terkini dari Shopee*, walaupun 42% responden masih mengutamakan diskaun dan harga rendah, sebilangan yang lebih besar iaitu 58% kini meletakkan keutamaan kepada kualiti produk dan kredibiliti penjual dalam menentukan sama ada sesuatu pembelian itu benar-benar berbaloi.

Trend baharu ini menandakan perubahan ketara dalam landskap e-dagang: pengguna masih peka terhadap harga, namun tidak lagi membuat keputusan berdasarkan diskaun semata-mata. Sebaliknya, mereka menggunakan pelbagai ciri yang membina kepercayaan seperti Shopee Live, Shopee Video, kandungan affiliate dan ulasan yang sahih untuk mencapai keseimbangan antara kemampuan dan kualiti. Golongan pengguna ini lebih berwaspada dan bijak, memanfaatkan teknologi digital untuk memaksimumkan nilai setiap ringgit serta memastikan keputusan pembelian yang lebih bernilai.

Pengesahan Kualiti Produk Melalui Bukti Sosial

Walaupun harga kekal sebagai faktor penting, pengguna masa kini tidak sekadar mencari diskaun, mereka juga menilai kualiti produk menggunakan pelbagai ciri yang tersedia di platform.

Lebih 60% pengguna Malaysia memanfaatkan ciri seperti baucar harian, pulangan tunai, Syiling Shopee dan label ‘Lagi Murah’ bagi mendapatkan penjimatan terbaik. Malah, 79% responden melaporkan bahawa mereka menggabungkan pelbagai baucar untuk memaksimumkan penjimatan, manakala 40% aktif mencari label ‘Lagi Murah’ bagi memastikan mereka mendapat harga terendah. Namun, pendekatan baharu ini disertai dengan semakan lanjut menerusi ciri-ciri tambahan seperti Shopee Live dan Shopee Video.

Sebanyak 83% pengguna menyatakan bahawa mereka menggunakan Shopee Live sebagai panduan pembelian. Penstriman langsung bukan sahaja bersifat interaktif dan menghiburkan, malah turut menampilkan demonstrasi produk dalam masa nyata, interaksi jujur antara penjual dan pelanggan serta promosi eksklusif. Kesemuanya membina keyakinan yang tidak dapat dicapai menerusi paparan produk statik. Pembelian kini bukan sekadar soal harga, tetapi nilai menyeluruh yang dirasai pengguna.

Kandungan video pendek seperti Shopee Video pula menjadi sumber ulasan pantas dan boleh dipercayai yang menambah keyakinan pembeli. Sekitar 70% responden mempercayai cadangan pencipta kandungan, terutamanya apabila disokong oleh penilaian penjual yang tinggi dan ulasan pengguna yang telah disahkan. Bagi produk atau penjual baharu, hampir separuh responden menyatakan bahawa penilaian penjual dan ulasan pembeli adalah rujukan paling penting. Ini menunjukkan permintaan yang semakin meningkat terhadap bukti sosial dan ketelusan, di mana nilai produk turut merangkumi pengesahan komuniti.

Menilai Semula Erti “Berbaloi”: Kualiti + Mampu Milik = Pembelian Bijak

Trend ini mencerminkan perubahan kekal dalam tabiat membeli-belah dalam talian rakyat Malaysia. Pengguna kini tidak hanya mengklik pada produk paling murah – mereka menilai, membandingkan, dan mencari bukti kualiti. Maka, penjual perlu menawarkan tawaran menarik sambil melabur dalam kandungan berinformasi, penglibatan masa nyata dan pengalaman yang membina kepercayaan.

Bagi memenuhi keperluan pembeli bijak ini, Shopee giat memperkembangkan ekosistem affiliate melalui pelbagai inisiatif daripada menggalakkan lebih banyak kandungan bentuk pendek menerusi Video Missions, membimbing pencipta kandungan berkualiti tinggi melalui Content Creator Club, hinggalah memudahcara padanan affiliate secara strategik antara penjual dan jenama. Usaha ini semakin membuahkan hasil yang ketara: dalam kempen Raya Bersama Shopee dan Festival Fesyen & Kecantikan 5.5 baru-baru ini, affiliate menyumbang kepada 1 daripada setiap 3 pesanan, sekali gus membuktikan peranan besar mereka dalam mendorong penukaran melalui kandungan yang dipercayai dan mudah didekati. Pembangunan berterusan ini mencerminkan komitmen Shopee untuk membekalkan pengguna dengan kandungan yang lebih bermakna dan diyakini, menyokong keputusan pembelian yang lebih bijak serta membantu penjual berkembang dan menyumbang kepada kemajuan ekonomi digital jangka panjang.

Komitmen ini telahpun menunjukkan hasil yang nyata buat penjual tempatan seperti Mohd Naimran Nordin, pengasas jenama Adnaa yang dikenali dengan busana tradisional elegan dan mampu milik. Sepanjang kempen Raya Bersama Shopee, jualan Adnaa meningkat sebanyak 170% hasil penggunaan alat kandungan interaktif seperti Shopee Live dan Shopee Video. Naimran berkongsi bahawa alat ini “menghidupkan rekaan kami, membolehkan pelanggan melihat kualiti dan potongan secara langsung.” Sepanjang kempen tersebut, Adnaa mencatatkan peningkatan pesanan melalui Shopee Live (116%), Shopee Video (281%), dan yang paling ketara, melalui kandungan affiliate (227%).

Kejayaan Adnaa menunjukkan mengapa Shopee terus memberi tumpuan kepada kandungan dan komuniti. “Pengguna hari ini lebih berpengetahuan berbanding sebelum ini,” kata Tan Ming Kit, Ketua Pemasaran Shopee Malaysia. “Mereka bukan sekadar mencari harga terendah, bahkan mereka mencari keyakinan dan nilai yang bermakna. Oleh itu, kami melabur dalam alat seperti Shopee Live, Shopee Video, dan memacu kandungan affiliate. Kami mahu memperkasakan rakyat Malaysia untuk berbelanja dengan lebih bijak, dan pada masa yang sama, membantu penjual memacu penukaran melalui pembinaan kredibiliti dan hubungan yang bermakna.”

Perubahan ke arah pembelian yang lebih bijak ini adalah satu anjakan struktur yang berkekalan. Bagi jenama dan penjual, nilai kini tidak lagi bergantung kepada harga semata-mata, tetapi pada gabungan kemampuan dengan keyakinan.

Shopee study reveals: Malaysian shoppers now balance price with quality

Malaysians are still watching their wallets – but they’re also watching livestreams and product videos before making a purchase. According to Shopee’s latest consumer survey*, while 42% of respondents still value discounts and low prices, a greater number – 58% – now prioritise product quality and seller credibility when deciding if something is truly worth it.

This emerging trend of smart spending signals a new chapter in e-commerce: shoppers remain price-conscious, but they’re no longer buying blindly based on discounts alone. Instead, they are leveraging Shopee’s trust-building tools such as Shopee Live and Shopee Video, affiliate content, and trusted reviews to find the right balance between affordability and quality. Smart shoppers are more intentional, using digital tools to stretch every ringgit and ensuring valuable purchase decisions.

Validating Product Quality Through Social Proof
While price remains a key motivator, today’s shoppers aren’t just chasing discounts – they investigate product quality from readily available tools before buying.

Around 60% of Malaysians use built-in features like daily vouchers, cashback offers, Shopee Coins, and the ‘Lagi Murah’ tag to find the best deals. In fact, 79% of respondents reported stacking vouchers to maximise their savings, while 40% actively searched for the ‘Lagi Murah’ tag to ensure they’re getting the lowest possible price. But here’s what’s new: shoppers are complementing these tools with deeper research and validation features, especially Shopee Live and Shopee Video.

Nearly 83% of users now use Shopee Live to help them decide what to buy. These livestreams provide more than just entertainment – with real-time demos, authentic seller interactions, and exclusive deals – they create a sense of trust that static product listings can’t replicate. It’s not just about what is cheapest, but why it’s worth buying.

Short-form content, like Shopee Video, serve as quick, credible reviews that further build buyer confidence. Around 70% of respondents trust creator recommendations, especially when backed by strong seller ratings and verified user reviews. And when trying out new products or new sellers, nearly half of all respondents consider seller ratings and buyer reviews as their most important reference point. This shows a growing demand for social proof and transparency where product value includes social validation.

Redefining “Worth It”: Quality + Affordability = Smart Spending
This emerging trend marks a lasting evolution in Malaysian online shopping habits. Today’s consumers aren’t just clicking on the cheapest item – they’re evaluating, comparing, and looking for proof of product quality. That means offering compelling deals and investing in real-time engagement, informative content, and trust-building experiences.

In response to the rise of smart shoppers, Shopee is actively expanding its affiliate ecosystem from driving more short-form content through Video Missions, nurturing high-quality creators via the Content Creator Club, and facilitating targeted affiliate matchmaking for sellers and brands. These efforts are beginning to show meaningful impact: in the recent Raya Bersama Shopee and 5.5 Fashion & Beauty Festival, affiliates contributed 1 in 3 orders, underscoring their powerful role in driving conversion through trusted, relatable content. This ongoing development reflects Shopee’s commitment to equipping shoppers with richer, trusted content that supports smarter purchase decisions, ultimately helping sellers grow and contributing to long-term digital economic progress.

This commitment is already delivering tangible results for local sellers like Mohd Naimran Nordin, founder of Adnaa, a brand known for elegant and affordable traditional wear. During the Raya Bersama Shopee campaign, Adnaa’s sales grew by 170% through the use of Shopee’s content-driven tools like Shopee Live and Shopee Video which Naimran shared, “brought our designs to life, helping customers see the quality and fit in real-time.” During the campaign Adnaa saw orders grow across all features from Shopee Live (116%), Shopee Video (281%), and most impressively affiliate content (227%).

Adnaa’s success reflects why Shopee is doubling down on content and community. “Today’s shoppers are more informed than ever,” says Tan Ming Kit, Head of Marketing at Shopee Malaysia. “They’re not just looking for the lowest price – they’re looking for confidence and meaningful value. That’s why we’ve invested in tools like Shopee Live, Shopee Video, and driving affiliate content. We want to empower Malaysians to shop smarter and give sellers more ways to drive conversions through building credibility and connecting meaningfully.”

This shift in smart shopping marks a lasting change. For brands and sellers, value is no longer just about price. It’s about layering affordability with trust.

SC unveils initiatives to drive adoption of Masaqid al-Shariah Guidance in ICM

The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) today launched the 40 Hadiths book series on sustainability and ethical sales transactions to promote a deeper understanding of the Islamic perspective on sustainability and Islamic ethics in commercial transactions.

The publications, launched during the 3rd SC Nadwah of Shariah Advisers in Islamic capital market (ICM) (SC Nadwah), aim to enhance industry awareness and practical implementation. They mark a significant milestone in raising industry awareness on embedding the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah Guidance (Guidance) in ICM, specifically in areas such as environmental stewardship, responsible business, and trade practices.

The SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi said internalising the Guidance encapsulated in these hadiths contributes to the development of a just, inclusive and sustainable economy.

“More importantly, the SC is committed to making Maqasid al-Shariah a fundamental framework for business dealings in ICM,” he said. “The outcomes that we are witnessing today is one of the approaches towards ensuring Islamic financial products and services are designed and implemented in a way that promotes the welfare of society and the environment,’’ he added.

The SC also announced the establishment of the Maqasid al-Shariah Task Force for ICM (MaTF), that will drive and streamline adoption of the Guidance across the Malaysian ICM. This includes identifying areas for strategic collaboration and innovation between regulatory bodies and industry players.

Members of the task force include Bursa Malaysia Berhad, the Malaysian Association of Asset Managers (MAAM), the Federation of Investment Managers Malaysia (FIMM), Malaysian Investment Banking Association (MIBA), the Association of Islamic Banking and Financial Institutions Malaysia (AIBIM), the Islamic Banking and Finance Institute Malaysia (IBFIM), and the International Council of Islamic Finance Educators (ICIFE).

Established in 2023, the SC Nadwah serves as a convening platform for intellectual discourse on applied Shariah knowledge sharing and charting the next wave of innovative Shariah solutions among Shariah advisers and market practitioners.

This year’s SC Nadwah brought together over 200 stakeholders from the Shariah advisory ecosystem, including policy makers, government agencies, academia, Shariah advisers, State Islamic Religious Councils, State Mufti Departments and Islamic finance practitioners.

Speakers were renowned industry leaders in the Islamic finance space. They include esteemed Shariah scholar Sheikh Dr. Nizam Yaquby and Chairman of SC’s Shariah Advisory Council Professor Dato’ Dr. Aznan Hasan. Sheikh Dr. Nizam Yaquby, who serves on more than 30 Shariah boards globally, including the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) and Islamic Development Bank (IDB), commended the SC’s efforts in organising the SC Nadwah.

He said the SC should continue with this initiative, which he says is an invaluable platform for fostering strategic dialogue and knowledge-sharing in advancing Islamic finance and in facilitating the growth and readiness of the industry to navigate future challenges.

The 40 Hadiths book series are now available for download at https://www.sc.com.my/resources/publications-and-research.

NCT collaborates with Intrinsic Venture to fuel start-ups

Intrinsic Venture Capital (Intrinsic Venture) and Malaysia’s Invest NCT Programme under NCT Group of Companies’ (NCT Group) partnership aims to  leverage on the Canadian venture capital firm’s RM615 million (CAD 200 million) fund to catalyse innovation, smart industry growth and global market integration from Malaysia.

The initiative is slated to empower high-growth start-ups and advanced industries at the NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP), under the theme “New Money for New Industries.” The fund targets strategic sectors including semiconductors, medical technology, electronics, green technology and digital infrastructure, positioning NSIP as Southeast Asia’s leading hub for smart industrial transformation.

The initiative is further reinforced through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today between NCT Group and Intrinsic EO, a global cross-border financial consultancy. The MoU marks a pivotal step toward integrating global finance, digital infrastructure, and market entry strategies within NSIP supporting the development of a next-generation, digitally connected industrial ecosystem aligned with Malaysia’s National Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and Industry ESG 4.0 standards.

Intrinsic EO, a pioneering consultancy specialising in cross-border investment and global growth enablement, brings deep international expertise to the collaboration. Backed by Canada’s Intrinsic Group, China’s EqualOcean, and Southeast Asian industry veterans, the firm offers integrated solutions in venture funding, digitalization, industrial transformation, and resource localization. It is also one of the first global firms to be awarded the prestigious KL20 Golden Pass, Malaysia’s flagship initiative to elevate Kuala Lumpur into one of the world’s top 20 start-up ecosystems by 2030.

As a strategic facilitator, the Invest NCT Programme offers flexible industrial property models, including Built-to-Suit (BTS) and lease-to-buy schemes, supported by a capital consortium comprising venture capital (VC), private equity (PE), bank co-investments, and talent bank resources. It embodies a future-forward investment strategy that integrates “New Finance, New Money” principles to create a fully bankable industrialization model.

“This strategic partnership with Intrinsic EO opens exciting possibilities for NSIP and Malaysia’s industrial landscape,” said Dato’ Sri Yap Ngan Choy, Founder and Group Managing Director of NCT Group. “By tapping into global expertise and digital capabilities, we are not only strengthening NSIP’s value proposition as an investment-attractive industrial hub, but also reinforcing our commitment to sustainable and innovation-led development.”

Dr. Neil Foo, Chief Strategist of NCT Group, added “Invest NCT is proud to launch the Venture Capital (VC) Consortium in conjunction with the ASEAN Summit 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. Guided by the principle of ‘New Money, New Finance,’ this initiative represents a strategic shift toward innovative capital structures—integrating global venture funding, private equity, and co-investment models. Through this platform, the NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) is not merely an industrial zone, but a scalable and bankable model for the future of industrial development across ASEAN and beyond.

Mr. Andrew Sanden, Chairman of Intrinsic EO, commented: “This partnership allows us to bring our international experience in market expansion, cross-border investment, and digital transformation to a strategic location in Southeast Asia. Together with NCT Group, we aim to build a smart, connected industrial environment that supports companies entering and scaling within the region — while contributing to Malaysia’s role as a regional hub for innovation and sustainable industry.”

Located in the heart of the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor (IDRISS), NSIP is Malaysia’s first Managed Industrial Park (MIP), setting a new benchmark for smart, bankable industrial development in ASEAN. With its focus on advanced technologies and sustainable practices, NSIP is emerging as a catalyst for next-generation industrial growth.

Myra unveils Alam Impian’s township with Malaysia’s first developer-backed renovation financing

Myra, the residential brand under Oriental Interest Berhad (OIB), is making its most significant entry yet into Shah Alam with the unveiling of Myra Tenuman, a 70-acre township in Alam Impian with a projected gross development value (GDV) of RM1 billion. The development is set to raise the benchmark for community-centric urban living in one of the Klang Valley’s most rapidly maturing corridors.

Designed as more than a residential project, Myra Tenuman is envisioned as a full-fledged township that integrates premium landed homes, upcoming serviced apartments, community-oriented commercial zones, and placemaking-driven public spaces.

Anchored by a thoughtfully curated village hub, the masterplan will eventually connect green corridors, pocket parks, and public realms, creating a long-term address for multigenerational families and upwardly mobile professionals seeking both exclusivity and community.

Speaking at the exclusive preview, Akil Hassan, Chief of People and Growth at Myra, said “Myra Tenuman marks a deliberate step forward in how we think about the liveability of place and permanence.

The first landed offering within the township will be unveiled under the Halaman collection, comprising 54 semi-detached homes and 16 bungalows, with an estimated GDV of RM165.5 million. All units are freehold and come with individual titles, offering homeowners long-term ownership security and greater flexibility for future modifications or extensions.

Conceived by Tangu Architecture, Halaman celebrates the idea of a “Green Village Compound”, fostering a sense of openness, connection, and harmony with nature. These homes draw inspiration from the traditional kampung spirit, reinterpreted through contemporary architecture and tropical design thinking.
Bungalows in Halaman sit on expansive land parcels ranging from approximately 6,652 to 8,826 sq ft, with built-ups of up to 3,982 sq ft, and are priced from RM3 million. The semi-detached units will have lot sizes between 4,166 and 7,535 sq ft, with built-ups of up to 3,376 sq ft, and prices starting from RM2 million.
Across both typologies, homes feature open-plan layouts, generous windows, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, blurring boundaries to enhance daily liveability. The architectural language promotes cultural sensitivity and environmental responsiveness, resulting in residences that are not only visually refined but also functional, adaptable and sustainably conceived.

Myra Tenuman represents Myra’s final parcel in Alam Impian and is undertaken in collaboration with fellow landowners and partners Naza TTDI and Triterra, underscoring the area’s emerging profile as one of Shah Alam’s most valuable suburban corridors.

To make homeownership more accessible and customisable, Myra has partnered with RHB Banking Group (RHB) to introduce a bundled Home & Renovation Loan/Financing package, marking RHB’s first collaboration of this kind with a property developer.

This financing solution offers eligible homebuyers up to 120% financing of either the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) price or open market value. Significantly, up to 30% of this amount can be specifically allocated for renovations, covering a wide range of enhancements including tiling, fittings, structural upgrades, and interior design.

Jeffrey Ng Eow Oo, Managing Director, Group Community Banking, RHB Banking Group, said, “We recognise that today’s homebuyers aspire to create spaces that truly reflect their personal style and needs. This pioneering partnership with Myra allows us to empower them with a seamless and flexible financial pathway to achieve this vision, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and personalised living environment for communities.”

The renovation portion of the financing will be disbursed progressively over a 12-month period, commencing after the full disbursement of the home loan/financing. This offer is available to both new and existing RHB customers and also covers essential costs such as legal and valuation fees, as well as mortgage protection insurance or takaful, providing a comprehensive financial solution from the initial purchase through to moving in and personalising their new home.

While Myra Tenuman buyers can only apply for the renovation loan upon completion, RHB’s financing initiative will also be extended to selected completed properties within Myra’s portfolio, including Myra Saujana Phase 4 in Sepang and Myra Gardens Phases 2 and 3 in Sungai Buloh.

MEASAT partners with Boustech to support Malaysian Armed Forces

Malaysia’s premier satellite solutions provider has signed a Term Sheet with Boustead Technology Sdn Bhd (Boustech) to formalise a collaboration between both companies to support the Malaysian Armed Forces’ satellite needs. The Term Sheet was signed in Langkawi in conjunction with the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (“LIMA 2025”).

MEASAT was represented by Ganendra Selvaraj, its Chief Commercial Officer while Boustech was represented by Sharifuddin Md Zaini Al-Manaf, its Chief Executive Officer. The signing was witnessed by Malaysia’s Minister of Defence YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Ministry of Defence Secretary General Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, Boustead Holdings Berhad Chairman Tan Sri Abu Bakar Haji Abdullah, and other representatives from the Ministry of Defence, Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) and the two companies.

“As a proudly Malaysian company that is the country’s sovereign satellite operator and solutions provider, MEASAT is proud to partner with Boustech to support the Malaysian Armed Forces’ satellite communications requirements as detailed in the nation’s Defence White Paper. This also reflects our commitment to support the Government of Malaysia’s communications needs. Our three decades of experience in delivering end-to-end satellite solutions enabled by cutting-edge technology has proven MEASAT’s ability to serve the most exacting and sensitive use cases, putting us in an ideal position to meet the nation’s security needs,” said Ganendra Selvaraj, Chief Commercial Officer, MEASAT.

“This collaboration marks a key step forward in Boustech’s mission to enhance secure, mission-critical communications infrastructure for the Malaysian Armed Forces. MEASAT’s three decades of proven capabilities as Malaysia’s sovereign satellite operator make them an ideal partner as we jointly explore advanced satellite-based solutions tailored for defence operations. We are confident this partnership will unlock new possibilities aligned with the evolving needs of national security and digital resilience,” said Sharifuddin Md Zaini Al-Manaf, Chief Executive Officer, Boustech.

Maybank signs LOI to support JS-SEZ

Maybank has signed a Letter of Intent (“LOI”) with the Malaysian Ministry of Economy, outlining the bank’s interests to jointly promote the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) during the JS-SEZ Partners’ Dialogue: Advancing Facilitation” event hosted by the Ministry. The event also facilitated the submission of LOIs by Singapore clients to the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) expressing a combined investment interest of up to RM2.35 billion over the next three to 10 years.

Maybank’s LOI covers four key areas: Financing Support; Promotion and Global Visibility leveraging the Bank’s extensive network; Collaboration on Events and Stakeholder Engagement; and Research and Thought Leadership.

Under Financing Support, Maybank would among others facilitate financing including green financing and Islamic financing for critical new technologies and infrastructure development; and provide comprehensive trade finance solutions, investment guarantees and credit facilities to attract foreign direct investments.

Dato’ Khairussaleh Ramli, President & Group CEO of Maybank said, “As a preferred banking partner in the JS-SEZ with the widest touchpoint network in Johor and in Singapore as a foreign bank, Maybank has launched a number of initiatives to position the zone as a regional hub. This includes strengthening the local ecosystem by upskilling micro, small and medium enterprises (“MSMEs”) in the areas of supply chain and Halal Facilitation; and establishing a JS-SEZ Desk to drive investments. Maybank has been taking the lead in supporting clients in strategic sectors such as data centres, infrastructure and semiconductor, and facilitated the approval of the first Single Family Office in Malaysia and in the Forest City Special Financial Zone.”

In attracting investment interests, Maybank facilitated the submission of LOIs by Singapore-headquartered clients: Alpine Renewables and Edible Oils Pte Ltd (“Alpine”), Centurion Corporation Limited (“Centurion”), and Thomson Medical Group Limited (“TMG”).

These intended investments contribute to the development of the 11 JS-SEZ economic sectors, particularly in the green economy, manufacturing, logistics and healthcare, and align with the MADANI Economy’s aspirations of creating new growth engines, and adding high value jobs.

In anticipation of surging demand for sustainable biofuels, Alpine via its subsidiary, Alpine Assets Management Sdn. Bhd., plans to invest approximately RM350 million over the next three years to develop a Renewable Energy Feedstock Pretreatment and Renewable Biodiesel Refinery Facilities in the Tanjong Langsat Industrial Port. The project has a forecasted throughput of approximately 600,000 MT of renewable feedstock oil into biofuel finished product, which would strengthen the port’s position as a major biofuel bunker supplier for the marine fuel market. Headquartered in Singapore, Alpine supplies feedstocks to biofuel producers in Europe, China, South Korea, and the US.

Listed on SGX and a global owner and manager of workers and student accommodation across the world, Centurion has expressed interest to invest RM300 million to RM500 million in the next five years to double its bed capacity in the JS-SEZ, and address the priorities of employers in key sectors of the JS-SEZ for Centralised Living Quarters that are certified by Jabatan Tenaga Kerja Semenanjung Malaysia (JTKSM) and meet the Employees’ Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990 requirements.

Also listed on SGX, TMG specified strong interest to invest up to RM1.5 billion over the next ten years to develop Thomson Hospital Iskandariah, located on a 1.5 hectare site in Stulang, Iskandar Malaysia. The envisaged worldclass hospital will be a state-of-the-art, multi-specialty tertiary care facility, incorporating AI-assisted tools, and featuring Centres of Excellences in Oncology, Orthopaedics, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fertility and General Surgery. It aims to serve as a healthcare anchor within the JS-SEZ as a model public-private partnership, creating approximately 1,500 jobs across clinical, research, specialist physicians, and support services including healthcare technologies.

Dato’ Khairussaleh said, “These LOIs signal confidence in the JS-SEZ’s strategic value. Maybank takes a long-term view of the zone’s success, and actively promotes broad-based participation from MSMEs to mid- to large-cap and multinational corporations in diverse sectors. We believe that inclusivity is fundamental to building a vibrant, integrated and resilient ecosystem within the JS-SEZ.”

In empowering MSMEs, Maybank has entered into an MOU with Perbadanan Usahawan Johor Sdn. Bhd. (PUJB) to form a strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening support for about 60,000 local Johor entrepreneurs, focusing on Halal Facilitation and businesses aligned with the JS-SEZ. The Bank is also partnering with the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME) to facilitate Singapore-based SME financing and access to the SEZ and ASEAN region.

Maybank has 71 touchpoints in Johor, including branches, Maybank Premier Centres, Maybank Service Centres and Commercial Banking Centres, with two more opening in Forest City and Medini, as well as 23 branches and PremierHubs.

For more information, please visit Maybank’s JS-SEZ page at maybank.my/jssez

IFSB releases 13th edition of Islamic Financial Services Industry Stability Report

The Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) has released the 13th edition of its flagship Islamic Financial Services Industry (IFSI) Stability Report. This year’s report reflects a renewed momentum across the industry, with total global assets reaching USD 3.88 trillion in 2024—a 14.9% increase year-on-year.

Themed “Navigating Shallow Waters: Addressing Structural Vulnerabilities and Shoring Up Resilience to Global Shocks,”, the report also observed broad-based growth across Islamic banking, ṣukūk, and Islamic insurance, signalling deepening market participation, growing global relevance, and broadening geographical reach.

Key takeaways from the report includes:

  • Renewed growth momentum of the IFSI: High year-on-year growth across key sectors of the IFSI, registering double-digit growth rates. In 2024, total asset growth for the Islamic banking and Islamic insurance grew by 17.05% and 16.9% respectively, while sukuk issuances increased by 25.6%.
  • Emerging markets opening new frontiers: Africa and Central Asia posted the highest growth rates globally, representing important opportunities to deepen local financial markets and expanding the industry’s global footprint.
  • Financial soundness indicators remained broadly stable: Capital, leverage, liquidity, and asset quality positions in both the banking and insurance sectors remain broadly sound. This is reflecting the positive impact of strengthened regulatory frameworks, wider adoption of IFSB standards, and growing investor confidence.
  • While outlook remains positive, some structural vulnerabilities remain: The report underscores the need to address long-standing structural imbalances, particularly the underdevelopment of capital markets and insurance sectors, which can constrain the industry’s scalability and its ability to fully support investment, funding, and liquidity needs across sectors.
  • Critical need to address structural limitations in ṣukūk markets: A key conclusion of the report is the need to deepen ṣukūk markets, which plays a vital role in strengthening financial intermediation and supporting macro-financial stability. While 2024 saw a surge in ṣukūk issuance and growing issuer diversity, structural limitations remain, including underdeveloped market infrastructure, complex ṣukūk structures and limited local-currency sovereign issuances, investor concentration, and low trading volumes, among other factors. If unaddressed, these structural limitations may constrain the IFSI’s long-term growth and pose broader financial stability risks, while also affecting other segments of the industry that depend on capital markets to manage their funding, investment portfolios, and liquidity positions.

The report further outlines a forward-looking set of policy priorities to address these limitations and unlock the potential growth of Islamic finance. It calls for coordinated action among regulators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to address these challenges, to ensure the sound development of the Islamic financial services industry.

First published in 2010, the IFSI Stability Report has become a key reference for global stakeholders, regulators, and market participants. It offers in-depth insights into industry trends, vulnerabilities, and evolving policy priorities shaping the future of Islamic finance.

The IFSB Islamic Financial Services Industry Stability Report 2025 is now available at https://www.ifsb.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IFSI-Stability-Report-May-2025.pdf.

Bursa Malaysia and Boardroom partner to scale CSI adoption

Bursa Malaysia Berhad (Bursa Malaysia or the Exchange) announces its collaboration withthe BoardRoom Group (BoardRoom), a leading provider of corporate and advisory services in the Asia-Pacific region. The collaboration seeks to encourage wider adoption of the Centralised Sustainability Intelligence (CSI) Solution among Malaysian public listed companies (PLCs), with the goal of enhancing the quality of sustainability disclosures across the corporate sector.

The CSI Solution was developed by Bursa Malaysia in support of Malaysia’s transition to a low-carbon economy. It enables companies — listed and non-listed — streamline sustainability reporting. Following its designation in March 2025 as the Exchange’s official sustainability reporting channel, the CSI Solution’s disclosure module now supports the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) IFRS S1 General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information and IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures under the National Sustainability Reporting Framework (NSRF).

Commenting on the collaboration, Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed, Chief Executive Officer of Bursa Malaysia, said “Bursa Malaysia is committed to supporting Malaysian companies in their decarbonisation journey and lowering their climate impact. This commitment is reflected in our decision to make CSI reporting tools, aligned with IFRS S1 and S2, accessible at no charge to all public listed companies.”

“Our collaboration with BoardRoom will extend the CSI Solution’s reach. Leveraging Boardroom’s established presence and sustainability advisory expertise in the corporate advisory space, we hope to support more companies in navigating evolving disclosure requirements and enhancing the quality of their sustainability reporting with greater confidence.”

Angeline Aw, Group Chief Executive Officer of BoardRoom Group, said, “We are proud to partner with Bursa Malaysia, to scale the CSI Solution across the corporate sector. This collaboration builds on our strong and long-standing relationship with the Exchange, underpinned by our shared commitment to strengthening corporate governance and regulatory readiness. With our deep experience in serving public listed companies and expertise in Sustainability Reporting and Advisory, BoardRoom is well-positioned to support clients in adopting the CSI Solution and producing impactful sustainability reports.”

Since its launch in June 2024, around 180 PLCs have onboarded onto the CSI Platform. All companies, not just PLCs but also mid-tier companies (MTCs) and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) are encouraged to adopt the CSI Solution to strengthen their sustainability journey. By leveraging its comprehensive suite of services, including an emissions calculator, a supplier management module, and a range of complementary value-added services delivered through a network of ecosystem partners, businesses can enhance their environmental performance and drive long-term value.

For more information regarding the CSI Solution and its value-added services, please visit Bursa Malaysia CSI Solution or contact csi@bursamalaysia.com.

Zurich launches travel takaful on ShopeePay

ShopeePay announces its partnership with Zurich General Takaful to launch their first travel takaful plan, Zurich Travel Takaful.

Meeting a growing demand for Shariah-compliant protections, Zurich Travel Takaful keeps users protected as they embark on their travels, starting from as low as RM3 per day for domestic travel and RM15.99 per day for international travel.

Catering to short-term and frequent travellers, this is ShopeePay’s first travel protection plan to offer both single and annual trip travel protection plans, keeping users protected for travel all year round.

Additional Benefits and Zurich Travel Assist

The takaful offering provides coverage of up to RM300,000 in medical and personal accident benefits throughout user’s travel while providing additional protections and benefits including compensation for:
● Travel Cancellation
● Travel Delay
● Travel Curtailment
● Baggage Delay
● Double Indemnity
● Personal Effects and Travel Documents

As part of Zurich’s Travel Takaful plan, users will also have access to Zurich’s 24-Hour Travel Assistance hotline to provide support throughout their travels.

In celebration of the launch of Zurich Travel Takaful on ShopeePay, users can kick off their travel plans with a variety of complimentary discounts, including:
● 5% discount on Travel Takaful when travelling in groups of 2-5 pax
● 10% discount on Travel Takaful when travelling in groups of 6-10 pax
● 15% discount on upgrades to VIP Plans for both single trip and annual plans

How to subscribe to Zurich Travel Takaful

Available on the ShopeePay app and also the Shopee app, subscribing to your Zurich Travel Takaful plan can be completed in under just 3 minutes:

Step 1: Access your ShopeePay App and click on the “Insurance” tab at the bottom left of your home page

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Step 2: Click on Travel and select your plan.

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Step 3: Confirm your details and proceed to check out.

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Breakdown your payments with SPayLater

Subscribing for a big group, or planning to pace out your protection plan payments? Split your Takaful contributions with SPayLater, the Shariah-compliant credit solution that lets you pay next month, or in instalments ranging from three to 12 months.

SPayLater is available for all Insurance and Takaful products provided on the ShopeePay and Shopee app.