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SMCCI and Maybank partner to boost SME growth in the halal economy across JS-SEZ and ASEAN

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The Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) and Maybank Singapore Limited (Maybank) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance Halal-focused initiatives and support the growth of SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and Malay/Muslim-owned enterprises in Singapore and Malaysia. This partnership will focus particularly on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), and extend across the wider ASEAN region.

Under this strategic partnership, SMCCI and Maybank will jointly organise events, conferences and trade visits to facilitate market access, knowledge-sharing, and Halal capability development. Leveraging its regional insights and community ties in Johor, SMCCI will provide guidance to its members on business setup, market entry, workspace solutions, policy updates and market intelligence. Through this partnership, around 300 SMCCI members stand to benefit from enhanced support and expanded regional opportunities.

Maybank will complement SMCCI’s efforts with its full suite of banking solutions, while continuing its successful collaboration through the Bank’s myimpact Microbusiness Programme, which empowers underserved entrepreneurs through business training, mentorship, and seed funding.

“We see rising demand from our members to explore opportunities in the JS-SEZ and the region especially in the Halal sector,” said Dr Abdul Malik Hassan, President of SMCCI. “By partnering with Maybank, we are strengthening the support ecosystem for entrepreneurs that are ready to take that step. Together, we aim to make cross-border growth more accessible, and assist Malay/Muslim-owned enterprises in Singapore navigate the regional landscape.”

Sazzali Sabandi, Head of Islamic Banking at Maybank in Singapore said, “The Halal economy is a fast-growing sector with enormous potential across ASEAN. Beyond Malaysia and Indonesia, we are seeing emerging interests from Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia in gaining a slice of the global Halal market that is estimated to reach USD5 trillion by 2030. With Maybank’s presence in all 10 ASEAN countries, we are able to support SMEs with the right tools and financial solutions to seize cross-border opportunities. We are proud of this collaboration with SMCCI as it is centred on Maybank’s purpose of humanising financial services, supported by our values-driven platform.”

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.

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.”

 

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.

Nurjesmi Mohd Nashir to spearhead RHB’s wholesale banking

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RHB Bank Berhad (RHB or the Group) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nurjesmi bin Mohd Nashir as Managing Director of Wholesale Banking, effective 1 July 2025. Nurjesmi succeeds Datuk Fad’l Mohamed, who was recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Bursa Malaysia.

With over three decades of experience in banking and capital markets, Nurjesmi brings deep expertise in corporate banking, investment banking, and market development. In his previous roles, he has a strong track record in transformative efforts to drive growth, reinforce the banks’ market standing, and optimise operational performance.

He began his career as an equity analyst in 1993 and has held various leadership positions at Citibank Berhad between 1996 to 2013, covering sectors including energy, plantations, and real estate.

Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, Group Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer of RHB Banking Group said, “Nurjesmi’s market insights and proven leadership make him well-positioned to steer our Wholesale Banking business into its next phase of growth. With our recent organisational restructure, Wholesale Banking will focus on five core areas – Investment Banking, Treasury & Global Markets, Transaction Banking, Client Coverage and Economic Research. I am confident his experience and leadership will be valuable in driving the Group’s PROGRESS27 strategy.”

Nurjesmi holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Syracuse University, New York, and a Diploma in Business Studies from MARA University of Technology (UiTM). He also served as an Independent Board Member of Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad, from 2018 to 2023.

This appointment reaffirms RHB’s commitment to strengthening its leadership bench and driving long-term value creation across its Wholesale Banking business.

Kenanga Investors launches new Global Real Asset fund

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Kenanga Investors Berhad (Kenanga Investors) launches the Kenanga Alternative Series: Global Real Assets Fund (KASGRAF), a new addition to its Kenanga Alternative Series (Series). The KASGRAF is an open-ended retail fund designed to achieve steady growth by diversifying investments across global real assets through carefully selected exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

The Fund’s ETF exposure is managed by GAX MD Sdn Bhd (GAX MD or External Fund Manager), which employs sophisticated algorithms and advanced investment models to ensure precise and effective management of global real assets. GAX MD is also the creator of MYTHEO, a digital investment management platform launched in Malaysia since 2019.

“The introduction of the KASGRAF enables Kenanga Investors to provide investors with enhanced growth opportunities through well diversified, global investment strategies. Amidst the complex economic landscape of today, the value of physical assets such as real estate, commodities and precious metals often appreciate, enabling investors to maintain the real value of their wealth. By integrating real assets into our portfolios, we offer our investors a robust hedge against market uncertainties and a means to achieve steady returns due to its sustainable growth potential”, said Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors.

“Our partnership combines Kenanga Investors’ extensive asset management expertise with GAX MD’s advanced quantitative modelling capabilities, creating a strategy based on a systematic, data-driven and cost-efficient approach to portfolio construction that optimises performance while strengthening diversification and risk management”, he elaborated.

KASGRAF aims to achieve a steady growth of investment assets and realise stable income, making it an ideal choice for investors with medium-term investment horizons. The fund’s core strategy involves investing primarily in ETFs linked to a diverse array of real assets. This includes sectors such as real estate, precious metals and commodities. By diversifying across these areas, KASGRAF helps to mitigate risk while enhancing the potential for returns. The Fund is available for subscription in MYR with a minimum initial investment amount of RM1,000.

“We are excited to partner with Kenanga Investors in bringing our advanced proprietary algorithms to a wider audience. ETFs allow investors to access a diverse range of asset classes including real estate, commodities and precious metals, without the high costs and complexities of direct ownership. For optimal selection, the Fund’s strategy follows a rigorous screening process based on key factors such as liquidity, expense ratios and tracking efficiency. By combining data-driven analysis with a structured ETF selection process, the strategy maximises efficiency while maintaining flexibility to adapt to evolving market conditions. At GAX MD, we are excited to contribute to the success of KASGRAF and its investors, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the market with confidence”, said Ronnie Tan, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GAX MD.

The launch of the Series aligns with Kenanga Investors’ longstanding goal of offering diverse investment solutions to meet investors’ varying needs/objectives. In addition to KASGRAF, the Series also includes the Kenanga Alternative Series: Income Opportunities Fund and Kenanga Alternative Series: Islamic Global Responsible Strategies Fund. Each fund offers unique benefits, allowing investors to diversify and hedge their portfolios according to their needs. This commitment to innovative products has earned the firm recognition for its expertise in alternatives investments. This year it received the Malaysia Best House for Alternatives award from Asia Asset Management’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards for the sixth time.

 

Tealive launches 3-in-1 sachets for ‘anytime indulgence’

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Tealive, Southeast Asia’s top lifestyle tea brand, has officially entered the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) market with the launch of its first 3-in-1 sachet beverage range. With milk tea, coffee, and chocolate variants, these convenient sachets deliver indulgent, cafe-quality taste anytime, anywhere.

Former Minister and popular podcaster Khairy Jamaluddin, a vocal advocate of innovation and Malaysian entrepreneurship, officiated the launch. “Tealive’s journey from kiosks to homes is not just a business evolution, but a cultural one,” said Khairy. “This is a proud moment for Malaysian innovation. We’re not only exporting products but also our lifestyle and identity.”

Founder and CEO Bryan Loo described the launch as a bold new chapter for Tealive and a strategic move to future-proof the brand by tapping into lifestyle shifts towards convenience and at-home consumption. “We wanted to make our best-loved flavours accessible wherever our fans are. This 3-in-1 range is our way of bringing those special Tealive moments into everyday routines — whether you’re commuting, at work, or simply relaxing at home,” said Loo.

The new range will be available exclusively at AEON and Tealive stores nationwide, plus e-commerce from 15 June, before expanding to more retail channels in July. Each box, priced at RM12.90, contains five to six sachets made with premium ingredients for a creamy, rich, and authentic flavour experience. The full lineup includes:

1. Milk Tea: Signature Milk Tea, Matcha Tea, Teh Tarik
2. Coffee: Signature Coffee, Caramel Macchiato, Hazelnut Coffee
3. Chocolate: Signature Coco, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate Hazelnut

Loo said, “We knew our sachets had to do more than just taste good. They have to evoke the full Tealive brewing positivity experience with every sip. With that, we’ve invested in sourcing high-quality ingredients and flavour profiles that mirror what you’d taste in our outlets.”

Tealive’s sachet drinks are positioned to stand out in a competitive FMCG landscape. Loo cited the brand’s trust, flavour innovation, ingredient integrity, and emotional connection with consumers as key differentiators. “We’ve built Tealive as a lifestyle brand, not just a product. That connection ensures repeat purchases and long-term loyalty. Furthermore, it’s not just about making it convenient — it’s about showing that Malaysian-made can mean world-class. Supporting local isn’t just patriotic; it’s a smart choice when the quality speaks for itself,” Loo added.

Khairy echoed this sentiment, noting, “We need more Malaysian brands like Tealive to lead with pride and authenticity. Supporting local is not just patriotic— we’re backing jobs, dreams, and the future of our own economy. Let’s be more intentional with our choices and support the innovators shaping tomorrow’s Malaysia.”

Khairy also praised Tealive’s entrepreneurial spirit and its commitment to local innovation. “As someone who’s always championed Malaysian brands expanding their horizons, I’m proud to witness Tealive’s next evolution. We have talent, ideas and tenacity. What Malaysian brands need now is collective belief and strategic support to scale regionally and globally.”

According to Frost & Sullivan, the Malaysian tea shop segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% from 2024 to 2029, outpacing the broader beverage industry. Tealive is positioned to tap into both retail & FMCG growth.

The launch event also introduced an exciting menu refresh. For customers seeking lighter options, Tealive is introducing a new category of light milk teas, crafted to meet the needs of health-conscious tea lovers. Fan-favourite Bang Bang drinks are returning with an upgraded formulation, offering richer textures and creamier finishes, while the new Da Hong Pao tea and Snowy series add to the premium taste experience. Loo explained, “This menu refresh is about catering to evolving lifestyles and flavour preferences. From the indulgent to the balanced, we’re ensuring there’s something for everyone.”

Complementing the product announcements, Tealive also revealed a series of exclusive collaborations with local Malaysian brands to release limited-edition merchandise. These co-creations are designed to celebrate Malaysian creativity, heritage, and pride.