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RAM BCI: Businesses still pessimistic about their three-month outlook in 2Q 2025

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The RAM Business Confidence Index (BCI) dropped further to 40.0 in 2Q 2025 (1Q 2025: 41.1). This marks the second consecutive quarter of negative sentiment on business prospects, which aligns with the rapidly escalating risks in global trade stemming from rising US protectionism policy. Three out of five sub-indices declined Q-o-Q, namely sales, capital investment and capacity utilisation.

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Consistent with the overall cautious and subdued business outlook, rising cost of doing business remains the most pressing issue, with 80% of firms citing it as top concern. More competition and weak economic conditions also pose significant hurdles, with 63% of firms identifying them as key challenges. The share of firms citing supply chain issues also jumped 11 percentage-points to 40% in this survey.

Impact of US tariffs under spotlight

A special focus for this quarter’s survey, which was conducted from 29 May 2025 to 28 June 2025 polling 33 firms, was the impact of the US tariffs on Malaysian goods. Around two-thirds of firms surveyed anticipate a negative impact from these tariffs, of which a significant 27% of firms expect a major negative impact, with firms anticipating moderate and minor impact each at 18%. Sales and revenue topped the list of business aspects likely to be hit, followed by profit margins, supply chains and cash flow.

In response, firms are mainly adopting cost-related strategies to mitigate tariff impacts. About 42% are focusing on cutting operational expenses, while 39% are adjusting pricing strategies to remain competitive.

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Demand for government support
Businesses are calling for more assistance from the government, especially in terms of better access to financing and working capital. Grants and direct subsidies are equally in demand to help offset the challenges posed by trade tensions.

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The latest RAM BCI survey highlights the growing pressures Malaysian businesses face from rising costs, intensified competition and external trade disruptions such as US tariffs. Chris W.K. Lee, RAM Holdings Berhad Group CEO and Executive Director said, “While businesses remain cautious, it is encouraging to see that companies are still investing and hiring. It is crucial that government and industry stakeholders work together to respond to the new challenges for businesses to survive and thrive.”

FedEx empowers APAC businesses to navigate global trade shifts

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Federal Express Corporation is helping businesses across Asia Pacific navigate an evolving trade landscape marked by tariff-induced uncertainties and heightened customs complexity. FedEx has been conducting webinars to help its customers stay agile in managing regulatory changes and responding to shifting trade environments. The response to its latest webinar series demonstrates the need for guidance within the business community. Over 6,500 participants registered from across the region.

The company’s role as experienced trade facilitators gives it a front-row seat to gauge sentiment in the business community:

  • One third (29%) of respondents attending FedEx webinars are not planning on changing their supply chain strategy.
  • More than half (52%) are considering supply chain diversification over the next 12 months to better adapt to global trade uncertainty.
  • A fifth (19%) are actively pursuing such plans.
  • Businesses have identified ongoing tariff uncertainty (41%) and increasing costs (29%) as both the drivers’ and key barriers to supply chain diversification.

These insights underscore the growing importance of leveraging best practices and the expertise of trade experts to tackle customs challenges and enhance supply chain resilience.

“Resilience has become a strategic imperative in a trade environment of constant transformation through shifting regulations, changing trade flows, and digital disruption,” said Salil Chari, senior vice president of Marketing & Customer Experience for Asia Pacific at FedEx. “While many are adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach before making major strategic changes, the most future-ready businesses will be those that invest in flexibility, embrace innovation, and rely on trusted partners to stay ahead of change.”

Best Practices for Seamless Customer Experience Supported by FedEx’s Comprehensive Suite of Services

Amid ongoing regulatory uncertainty, businesses need to be better equipped to navigate increasing complexity. By leveraging the FedEx comprehensive suite of services, including digital trade tools and tailored solution guides, businesses can minimize delays, avoid unexpected costs and maintain operational efficiencies.

1.Rely on Expert Guidance

  • Regularly check for expert guidance on tariffs, customs policies, and required documentation through reliable sources like the FedEx U.S. Tariff Hub.
  • Access FedEx Trade Solutions for personalised trade consulting, advisory solutions for immediate challenges, and managed solutions for ongoing compliance and regulatory needs

2. Gather Essential Information for Seamless Clearance

  • Provide Clear and Accurate Product Descriptions: Include specific details such as material composition, intended use, quantity, and country of manufacture.
  • Use the Correct HS Codes: Ensure the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) codes are included in all shipping documents. Customers can leverage the enhanced HS code feature in FedEx Ship ManagerTM at fedex.com powered by the latest AI technology to improve compliance.
  • Include Manufacturer Identification Code (MID): For certain shipments, particularly textiles and apparel, provide the MID code on both the Air Waybill and commercial invoices to ensure smooth customs clearance.
  • Prepare for Formal Entry Requirements: Ensure the consignee’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) is included for formal entry shipments to avoid delays or returns.

3. Leverage Tailored Digital Trade Tools

  • Utilise tools such as FedEx Global Trade Manager to estimate duties and taxes, identify applicable tariffs, and access essential trade resources.
  • Take advantage of Electronic Trade Documents to electronically submit data, enabling paperless processing and accelerated customs clearance with reduced delay risks.

4. Select a Reliable Logistics Expert with a Robust Global Network

  • Customers can leverage the comprehensive FedEx portfolio of day-definite parcel and freight services that balance speed with competitive pricing to support their business growth. With its one-stop solution, designed to handle everything from single packages to large pallet or container shipments.
  • FedEx also continues to invest in infrastructure to support regional trade. In addition to its strong intra-Asia network, the recent launch of a direct Singapore-Anchorage flight improves transit times between Southeast Asia and the U.S., offering faster delivery options for businesses in the region. FedEx also launched a new flight connecting its Asia Pacific Hub in Guangzhou, China to Bangalore, India and onwards to Liege and Paris in Europe in November last year. The flight operates five times per week to enhance intra-Asia and Europe connectivity.

As global trade dynamics shift, FedEx trade expertise, industry-leading customs clearance capabilities, and game-changing digital solutions, empower its customers to navigate customs complexities with confidence and seize new opportunities.

To stay informed of the latest tariff policy changes and access FedEx’s latest solutions and support, businesses are encouraged to explore the FedEx U.S. Tariff Hub and contact their local FedEx representative for personalised support.

 

CelcomDigi’s flagship retail store empowers Malaysians to realise connected living

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CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi) launched Life, its new flagship physical stores that mark a bold step forward in retail innovation. Located at The Gardens Mall and Sunway Pyramid, these Life stores are designed as experiential hubs for customers to easily discover, experiment with and own the very latest in connected technology.

The Life stores are built for discovering the latest in connected living. It caters to diverse customer segments regardless of age or tech know-how, from content creators on the move, to a busy parent building a smart home, a wellness tech enthusiast, or one just starting their connected journey.

CelcomDigi’s Chief Executive Officer Datuk Idham Nawawi said, “Our retail transformation is a testament of our strong commitment to deliver exceptional service to our customers, every day. Malaysians continue to value the ability to touch, feel, and explore — and we are meeting this need through a bold, immersive retail experience with the technologies that are shaping our future.

“Our flagship Life stores bring together the best in connected technology and content all in one experiential space for customers to comfortably discover and adopt smart solutions for everyday living. Working with visionary partners like Samsung and Disney, this concept reflects our commitment to make connected living more accessible, and to being a brand that Malaysians can trust and rely on in this age of digital-everything.”

A next-gen retail experience: The best of technology and content, made better with CelcomDigi
Spanning 3,500 square feet, the Life stores feature a vibrant ecosystem of over 20 partners and introduces a unique “store-within-a-store” experience. This is a first in Malaysian telco retail, where two global household brands, Samsung and Disney, have dedicated experiential zones that give customers a firsthand feel of the best in smart tech and content.

The Stage
This exclusive collaboration with Samsung showcases the brand’s latest innovation, including lifestyle-focused wearables, smart appliances and fitness tech. Customers can interact with the products and make instant purchases via the ‘Endless Aisle’, a wall-sized interactive screen that enables seamless online ordering, payment, and home delivery.

Pixar Connect Lounge, The Gardens Mall and Marvel Connect Lounge, Sunway Pyramid
Designed in partnership with Disney, the Pixar Connect Lounge is a family-focused space inspired by Toy Story and Marvel and tablets pre-loaded with interactive activities and apps inspired by Disney stories, along with merchandise from DisneyStore.asia

Throughout the grand opening weekends of 16 to 20 July 2025 (The Gardens Mall) and 23 to 27 July 2025 (Sunway Pyramid), customers will enjoy exclusive discounts on selected accessories, purchase with purchase promotions from as low as RM1, limited-time bundle deals and free gifts for the first 100 customers at each location. CelcomDigi customers can enjoy 15% off purchases on Samsung’s Endless Aisle, and a rewarding 30% off if they are a CelcomDigi customer with a Samsung device contract.

CelcomDigi’s retail ecosystem now spans over 10,000 touchpoints, consisting of over 50 CelcomDigi branded stores, over 300 partner-operated CelcomDigi Express stores, and thousands of modern and open trade channels. Together with the company’s online store and mobile apps, CelcomDigi now operates one of Malaysia’s largest retail networks for digital products and services.

China Medical System successfully debuts on the Mainboard of the SGX-ST

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China Medical System Holdings Limited (CMS or the Group), a platform company linking pharmaceutical innovation and commercialisation, made its debut on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX-ST) under the ticker symbol “8A8”. CGS International Securities Singapore Pte. Ltd. is the sole issue manager for this secondary listing.

This marks CMS’s secondary listing in the capital markets, following its debut on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEX) in 2010. While no new shares were issued or placed, the move reflects CMS’s commitment to expand its footprint to the broader Asia-Pacific region by capitalising on its proven track record in the pharmaceutical industry of over 30 years in China.

Having evolved from being China’s largest contract sales organisation (CSO) into an innovation-driven multinational pharmaceutical company, the Group is now operating an integrated product lifecycle management platform that covers target selection and confirmation, to preclinical research, clinical development, and commercialisation. Building on this foundation, CMS has developed strong capabilities in identifying, developing, and commercialising First-in-Class and Best-in-Class innovative products. As of 15 July 2025, the Group’s market capitalisation stood at HK$31.91 billion1.

The listing comes at a time where CMS is transitioning toward an innovative product-driven business model to mitigate the impact of China’s volume-based procurement (VBP) policies to ensure sustainable growth. Since 2018, the Group has developed a robust pipeline of approximately 40 innovative products, five of which were already approved for marketing as of 2024. Notably, two other products have been submitted for marketing approval in China as well.

CMS currently sells seven major exclusive or brand-name products in the market, which have shown a progressively upward trend in their revenue contribution over time. Together with five commercialised innovative drugs, these collectively contributed RMB 4.56 billion in revenue in FY2024, accounting for 52.8% of the Group’s total turnover. Given the gradually easing impact from China’s VBP policy and the Group’s optimised product portfolio focusing on exclusive and innovative drugs which are typically exempt from VBP, CMS is well-positioned to resume its top-line growth trajectory from FY2025.

With a forward-looking mindset and acute market insight, the Group has implemented an industrial internationalisation strategy for its business expansion in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, which has already begun to deliver tangible outcomes. To date, the Group has established a full-scale pharmaceutical value chain based in Singapore, which covers R&D, production, and commercialisation. This not only enables the Group to bring high quality, regulatory-compliant, and affordable drugs to emerging markets with increasing pharmaceutical demand, but also serves as a bridge for introducing global innovative therapies into the broader Asia-Pacific region.

Emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East are becoming new growth opportunities for the global pharmaceutical industry.  The key drivers behind the rapid expansion of these markets include large population bases, the early onset of aging demographics, increased healthcare coverage, and a rising burden of chronic diseases that reshape the disease landscape. At the same time, the growing middle class and rising health awareness are also driving the increase in both purchasing power and accessibility of medicines.

With regard to the regional market outlook and CMS’s overseas expansion, the Group added that Southeast Asia remains a largely untapped market in its view. The region comprises many small to mid-sized developing economies, each with distinct healthcare systems and regulatory requirements for drug launch. While complex, this landscape aligns well with CMS’s strengths and resources, particularly its proven track record in commercialising innovative therapies.

Looking ahead, CMS remarked, “The successful listing of CMS on SGX marks a solid step forward in advancing our industrial internationalisation strategy, further enhancing our brand visibility and credibility in the broader Asia-Pacific region. Meanwhile, to meet the growing pharmaceutical demand, our CDMO facility is planning to expand its manufacturing capability to include nasal spray platform, cream and injectable lines beyond its current focus on oral solid dosage forms. Further expansion to double or triple the current capacity by the end of 2028 is also under evaluation. As such, we firmly believe that our notable progress in innovative drug development, steady growth in the speciality-focused business, and continued advancement in overseas expansion will collectively facilitate the Group’s return to a multi-year growth trajectory.”

 

Kenanga Investment Bank’s NagaWarrants unlocks new trading frontiers with HSCEI and HSTECH warrants

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Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (Kenanga Group or The Group), announces the launch of its first-ever Hang Seng China Enterprises Index (HSCEI) structured warrants – HSCEI-CAA and HSCEI-HBA – and Hang Seng TECH Index (HSTECH) structured warrants – HSTECH-C30 and HSTECH-H27 – under its flagship brand, NagaWarrants by Kenanga (NagaWarrants).

This launch marks a strategic expansion of the Group’s East Asia footprint, following the successful introduction of Hang Seng Index (“HSI”) structured warrants – HSI-CIW and HSI-HMO – in 2021. With HSCEI and HSTECH now listed on Bursa Malaysia, Malaysian investors will gain diversified access to two of Hong Kong’s most influential indices, offering new opportunities to tap into China’s financial and technology sectors.

The HSCEI tracks heavyweight mainland enterprises listed in Hong Kong, including financial and infrastructure giants such as ICBC, China Construction Bank, PetroChina, and Ping An Insurance. It serves as a key benchmark for tracking the performance of China’s largest state-owned enterprises.

The HSTECH, on the other hand, captures the growth of China’s leading tech innovators such as Tencent, Meituan, Xiaomi, and JD.com. With its focus on fast-evolving technology and innovation, HSTECH is ideal for traders with higher risk appetites looking for volatility and growth potential.

Kenanga Group’s presence in the structured warrants market is underscored by its 64% market share in HSI warrants. In 2024, the structured warrants segment on Bursa Malaysia recorded a turnover of RM30.3 billion, contributing approximately 4% to the exchange’s total market turnover of RM848.7 billion.

The launch of HSCEI and HSTECH structured warrants is expected to broaden market participation, diversify product offerings, and boost overall liquidity – particularly among retail traders already familiar with Hang Seng Index warrants.

“The launch of HSCEI and HSTECH structured warrants marks a pivotal step in our mission to democratise access to global markets. As Malaysia’s leading issuer, Kenanga Group remains committed to driving innovation, expanding investor opportunities, and shaping the future of structured warrants. This initiative reflects our long-term vision to empower a new generation of traders while reinforcing our leadership in the region’s capital markets,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad.

“In 2024, NagaWarrants achieved a record-breaking market share of 52%, with a total turnover of RM15.7 billion. This milestone also marks our 300th Hang Seng-listed structured warrant on Bursa Malaysia – a testament to our relentless drive to innovate and serve the evolving needs of Malaysian traders,” added Datuk Lee Kok Khee, Executive Director, Head of Group Equity Business of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad.

Beyond product innovation, NagaWarrants continues to empower investors through a blend of educational outreach and advanced analytics. In 2024, it hosted over 50 webinars and events, earning the SRP Asia Pacific Award for Best Educational Initiative in 2022, 2023 and 2025. At the same time, its adoption of machine learning models – which analyse interest rate movements, market trends, and regional dynamics to anticipate demand fluctuations – has enhanced precision in warrant issuance.

In recognition of its leadership and innovation, Kenanga Group has received several prestigious accolades, including:
• Bursa Excellence Awards: Best Structured Warrants Issuer (2021 and 2024) (Equity and Index)
• Global Banking & Finance Awards (UK): Best Warrants Issuer & Best Market Maker (2024 and 2025)
• FinanceAsia (HK): Most Innovative Use of Technology (2024 and 2025)

Looking ahead, Kenanga Group remains committed to supporting investors through innovation, education and access to global markets. To explore trading opportunities and stay informed, visit www.nagawarrants.com or join our Telegram community (@NagaWarrants).

Maybank becomes first Southeast Asian bank to grant sustainability-linked loan to Austria’s AT&S

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Maybank announced it is granting a Sustainability-Linked Loan (SLL) amounting to USD150 million to Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Malaysia (AT&S Malaysia). This landmark transaction marks the first SLL issued by a Malaysian and Southeast Asian commercial bank to AT&S, and notably the first such facility by a local lender to a multinational company in Malaysia’s semiconductor sector. This deal follows a USD250 million loan provided to AT&S Malaysia by International Finance Corporation (IFC) in March 2025 and concludes the parallel loan arranged by IFC under the same agreement.

AT&S Malaysia is the subsidiary of Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Aktiengesellschaft (AT&S), a public listed company in Vienna and a leading global manufacturer of high-end printed circuit boards (PCB) and integrated circuit (IC) substrates.

The said financing will support the development of AT&S’ first high-end IC substrate plant in Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Malaysia, that will include state-of-the-art equipment and closed-loop recycling systems, adhering to AT&S’ comprehensive sustainable energy framework. The facility will produce advanced IC substrates, essential components to meet surging demand for high-performance data processors, data centres, and AI infrastructure. Its clients include among others, AMD for data centre processors. With over USD1 billion committed to Malaysia, this represents AT&S Group’s largest initial investment.

The targets attached to the SLL include reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions by 31% by March 31, 2028, using fiscal year 2022 as the baseline.

Dato’ John Chong, Group Chief Executive Officer, Global Banking of Maybank said, “We are pleased to back AT&S in developing its first IC substrate facility in Kulim that further strengthens Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor value chain. The financing aligns with our strategic focus on the semiconductor ecosystem in Southeast Asia where we have identified financing opportunities. The SLL structure also strengthens our commitment to mobilising sustainable finance and powering the region’s green transition. This transaction is also a reaffirmation of our growing collaboration with the International Finance Corporation.” From 2021 to the end of Q1 2025, Maybank mobilised RM125.46 billion in sustainable finance across ASEAN, surpassing its RM80 billion target by 2025.

Petra Preining, Chief Financial Officer, AT&S said, “We welcome Maybank as a valued financing partner in our investment in the Kulim facility. This transaction is a milestone for both Maybank and AT&S as it represents the first time AT&S has raised financing at its Malaysian subsidiary level.”

“Our sizeable investment of over USD1 billion in Malaysia follows the demand from our global clients, and reflects our confidence in Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem and its growth trajectory. It also aligns with the ambitions of Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 to position the country as a leading hub for advanced manufacturing,” said Michael Mertin, President and CEO, AT&S. “For AT&S the new facility is an important foundation for our profitable growth path based on superior technology, experience and our global leading customers.”

AT&S ranks sixth in high-end PCBs market and fifth in IC substrates market globally in terms of revenue. The company is also the only non-Asian company producing IC-substrates in significant volumes and one of two non-Asian companies among the top 50 PCB companies in the world.

 

Hong Leong Bank launches next-generation branches for enhanced customer experience and interpersonal connection

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As part of its bank-wide transformation plan, of Hong Leong Bank’s (HLB or the Bank) has unveiled the latest chapter in its ambitious branch transformation initiative with the unveiling of its next-generation branches.

These include reimagined flagship branches in Old Klang Road, Cheras, and Kota Damansara, alongside a renewed branch in Cheng, Melaka. This comprehensive branch transformation builds on the success of the iconic Light Street branch in Penang launched exactly one year ago and the innovative Meet @ HLB concept introduced in Eco Majestic, Semenyih early this year.

In a resounding testament to its innovative branch banking approach, HLB has also been awarded the Best Branch Transformation Initiative in Asia Pacific 2025 award by The Asian Banker. This prestigious recognition underscores the Bank’s leadership in redefining the physical banking experience and its unwavering commitment to customer-centricity.

Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director and CEO of HLB, commented on the Bank’s strategic imperative to transcend branch banking model, as HLB works towards becoming the Best Run Bank in Malaysia.

“As a Digital Bank Plus Much More, we’re reimagining our physical branches as a “one-stop centre”. Here, you can address all your financial needs, from setting up your children’s first savings account to comprehensive legacy planning and supporting your business growth with SME loans and green financing. We’re also collaborating with other Hong Leong Financial Group companies to offer an extended range of products and services, including comprehensive insurance services and advisory centers, ensuring all your banking needs can be met under one roof. This creates a truly hybrid banking model, where our physical presence amplifies our digital capabilities by serving as centers for complex financial advisory, in-person portfolio management, and relationship building.”

To achieve this excellence in efficiency and customer experience, HLB’s reimagined branches are meticulously designed to foster an inviting, warm, and friendly atmosphere, where comfortable interiors encourage meaningful conversations about customers’ financial futures.

“This is where human connection truly matters most,” Lam added. “Crucial interactions, such as wealth advisory, insurance planning, and in-depth discussions about business growth, require a high degree of trust, empathy, and tailored advice. These new spaces are crafted to facilitate those private, conducive environments, because trust cannot be transacted; it must be built through genuine human interaction.”

Each branch within HLB’s comprehensive network is tailored to its local demographic, ensuring customers receive the most seamless, relevant, and accessible banking experience possible. The reimagined flagship branches now include a dedicated Priority Banking Center, which offers a private and inviting environment for customers.

Similarly, for the Bank’s business and corporate clients, these branches serve as vital community hubs, facilitating essential in-person discussions for business owners seeking financing, navigating uncertainties, or bespoke advisory services, reinforcing the invaluable human connection and dedicated partnership that empowers their growth.

The four branches launched by HLB are just the first in a series of renewed branches that will be rolled out in the near future, as the Bank looks to further enhance its branch banking network and provide a seamless banking experience for its customers.

Chin Hin Group Property expands Klang Valley landbank with RM52 Million Segambut land acquisition

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Chin Hin Group Property Berhad (CHGP or the Group) announces that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Chin Hin Property (Segambut) Sdn Bhd (CHPS), has entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with New York Empire Sdn Bhd (NYESB) and Kar Sin Bhd (Kar Sin) for the acquisition of a strategically positioned 6.49-acre parcel of freehold land located in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur, for a cash consideration of RM52 million.

This acquisition transitions from a previous joint development agreement signed in April 2024, providing CHGP full ownership and development rights. Originally planned as a collaborative development between CHGP and Kar Sin, the land will now be independently developed by CHGP into a residential or mixed development project.

The acquisition supports CHGP’s ongoing strategy of expanding its property portfolio by securing strategically located land within high-potential areas of Kuala Lumpur.

The land in Segambut is well-connected by major highways, including the Duta-Ulu Klang Expressway (DUKE) and Jalan Ipoh, as well as public transportation such as KTM Komuter and MRT stations. The area is experiencing rapid urban growth and infrastructure improvements, making it highly attractive for residential and mixed-use developments.

CHGP plans to develop a high-rise development on the newly acquired land, subject to obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals. The project aims to meet the growing demand from young professionals, families, and local businesses seeking integrated developments offering convenient living and lifestyle amenities.

Chang Tze Yoong, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Property Development Division at Chin Hin Group Property Berhad said, “Transitioning from our previous joint development arrangement to full ownership of this prime land allows CHGP greater flexibility and control over the project’s execution and marketing. Given the area’s strong connectivity and market dynamics, we are confident this project will substantially contribute to our earnings growth”

The land’s freehold tenure and favourable zoning conditions provide CHGP with significant flexibility to deliver an innovative, lifestyle-centric mixed-use development — a concept that has proven successful in key urban growth corridors. We are confident this project will substantially contribute to our earnings growth.

Aligned with CHGP’s sustainable growth goals, this acquisition is expected to positively impact the Group’s long-term earnings and support its commitment to ESG practices by creating environmentally friendly and sustainable communities.

 

ZTE unleashes AI-First future

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ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, unveils its latest AI-powered innovations at the “Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation” showcase in Kuala Lumpur, bringing highlights from Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 to Malaysia. The event reinforced ZTE’s commitment to helping Malaysia lead in next-generation digital infrastructure and intelligent transformation.

At the heart of the showcase was ZTE’s vision for building ultra-efficient mobile networks, led by its cutting-edge Ultra Band Radio (UBR) technology. Designed for simplified deployment and green energy usage, UBR enables highly compact, power-efficient sites that reduce environmental impact while improving network performance. Key innovations included 5G-A solutions like 4K AR live broadcasting with ultra-low latency and high reliability, as well as real-world applications for drone logistics and smart waterways. To bridge the digital divide, ZTE introduced solar-powered and modular rural connectivity solutions like the Eco Radio and Rural Pilot, designed for sustainable and scalable deployment in remote areas.

The event also highlighted ZTE’s advancement in All-Optical Networks, where high-speed fiber connectivity meets AI-driven intelligence. ZTE introduced its latest smart home ecosystem, including a next-generation AI Home Media Center, 4K AI Soundbar, the industry’s first AI screen-equipped FTTR (Fiber-To-The-Room), and its high-performance LinkPro Wi-Fi 7 series. These solutions offer seamless, intelligent connectivity for households and SMEs, supporting Malaysia’s broadband and digital lifestyle goals.

Taking AI integration even further, ZTE presented the AIR DNA Future Network, a pioneering solution that re-engineers the foundational “genetics” of mobile networks. This AI-native infrastructure empowers operators to automate network operations, improve efficiency, and build more dynamic service models in a hyper-connected era. Complementing this was the debut of AiCube, ZTE’s full-stack intelligent computing solution that supports full-version DeepSeek deployment. Engineered to flexibly serve large data centers, edge computing facilities, and enterprise-grade systems, AiCube delivers high-performance AI processing across diverse scenarios—powering everything from smart cities to intelligent factories.

ZTE is expanding its consumer-focused ‘nubia’ brand in Malaysia, introducing a strong focus on gaming through the nubia Neo 3 series. It is named Official Co-Branded Gaming Smartphone for Free Fire, bringing together its “Born to Win” and Free Fire’s “BOOYAH” spirit to provide an accessible esports-grade gaming experience for everyone. The new lineup features gaming oriented enhancement such as shoulder triggers and an expansive 4083mm² VC liquid cooling system. The nubia Neo 3 series also integrates cutting-edge AI features, including Demi, an AI gaming companion, and AI-powered tools for photography and voice interaction. The co-branding partnership between nubia Neo 3 series and Garena’s hit mobile game Free Fire. ZTE also highlighted its role in global policy leadership through GSMA forums, with potential to collaborate more closely with local regulators in shaping Malaysia’s digital future.

Steven Ge, Managing Director of ZTE Malaysia, said during his keynote speech, “ZTE Malaysia has proudly spearheaded several landmark achievements, including setting a Malaysia Book of Records title for the fastest 5G-Advanced speed reaching 30.8 Gbps during a live test in Sarawak. Furthermore, ZTE is deeply committed to bridging Malaysia’s digital divide. Through active support of national initiatives like JENDELA, we have modernized and expanded coverage especially in rural and underserved areas.”
The event drew participation from key Malaysian stakeholders including Axiata, CelcomDigi, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), EdotCo, Maxis, Telekom Malaysia, U Mobile, YTL Corporation, and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). Through this showcase, ZTE extended a call for deeper collaboration with ecosystem players to co-build a smarter, more inclusive digital future.
ZTE has filed over 93,000 global patent applications, and has approximately 48,000 patents in total, as well as a proven track record of supporting national infrastructure—having modernized over 10,000 sites and delivered more than half of the nationwide JENDELA rollout—ZTE continues to support Malaysia’s long-term digital agenda.

The “Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation” event demonstrates ZTE’s position as a global driver of digital progress. By empowering operators, developers, and policymakers with the tools to build intelligent infrastructure, ZTE is enabling Malaysia to accelerate its position as a regional digital leader and future-ready economy.

National Teacher Summit champions holistic education ahead of Kurikulum 2027

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As Malaysia prepares for Kurikulum 2027’s shift to values-based, student-centred learning, targeted teacher training is building capacity through practical strategies that nurture empathy, emotional growth, and stronger teacher-student bonds.

For the first time, 70 teachers from across the country have completed formal training in building Emotional Intelligence through Program Guru KARISMA (Karakter Inspirasi Masyarakat)—a year-long initiative designed and led by Arus Academy, with full funding from Yayasan Hasanah, a foundation under Khazanah Nasional, and Ministry of Finance Malaysia. The initiative is part of broader efforts to prepare educators for Kurikulum 2027—Malaysia’s next major curriculum reform that emphasises holistic development, including values, emotional intelligence, and responsible citizenship.

Character education and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is a proactive educational approach that helps students understand and manage their emotions, build empathy, communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and collaborate with others—skills that support academic success, mental well-being, and positive lifelong behaviours.

Held in conjunction with the Sidang Guru Kemuncak KARISMA 2025, the culmination of the programme brought together 300 educators, including the 70 trained participants, for a one-day national summit that blended expert-led workshops, classroom showcases, and panel discussions focused on holistic education. Teachers explored how to embed SEL into academic subjects—an increasingly vital competency under Kurikulum 2027.

“Kurikulum 2027 will shift the role of teachers beyond content delivery—it’s about nurturing emotionally grounded, values-driven young people,” said Alina Amir, Co-founder of Arus Academy. “Program Guru KARISMA equips teachers with the tools and mindset to create meaningful learning environments that reflect this shift. This is about elevating the teaching profession—preparing educators to meet the emotional and social needs of today’s learners with confidence and care.”

The summit featured a national showcase of over 125 classroom activities and 70 action research projects led by the KARISMA cohort. These highlighted how SEL practices can boost student engagement, reduce classroom conflict, and build stronger interpersonal connections in the learning environment.

International SEL expert Keeth Matheny, founder of SEL Launchpad, also participated in the Summit, leading sessions alongside interactive masterclasses on SEL-integrated pedagogy, teacher wellbeing, and holistic student assessment. A multidisciplinary panel of experts from education, corporate, and civil society sectors also convened to discuss new models of student assessment that measure not just academic outcomes, but also empathy, collaboration, and social responsibility.

“When we equip teachers to lead with empathy and intention, we’re not just transforming classrooms—we’re shaping a more compassionate and resilient education system for Malaysia,” said Siti Kamariah Ahmad Subki, Trustee & Managing Director at Yayasan Hasanah. “As a catalyst foundation, Yayasan Hasanah is committed to enabling systemic, people-centred reforms in education. Through Program Guru KARISMA, we’re investing in teachers as agents of change – a vital part of the wider ecosystem that supports our children’s growth. Alongside families, communities, and the whole-of-nation effort, teachers will be equipped with the skills and confidence to nurture a generation of empathetic, socially conscious learners.”

This initiative aligns with the Malaysian Education Blueprint 2013–2025 and  supports the global education commitments under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.7. This target calls for the integration of global citizenship, human rights, peace, and sustainability into education policy, curriculum, teacher training, and assessment. Program Guru KARISMA supports this by helping teachers deliver on the three learning domains of Global Citizenship Education (GCED)—cognitive, socio-emotional, and behavioural—through interactive, student-centred pedagogy, teacher wellbeing training, and more holistic approaches to student assessment.