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Energy & Technology

Pentamaster Enters Next-Gen AI Server Technology Through Joint Venture

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KUALA LUMPUR, Penang-based Pentamaster Corp Bhd is venturing into next-generation technologies for AI servers and data centres with a US$3 million (RM12.69 million) investment for a 14.29% stake in Ahead Optoelectronics (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd. The new entity, set up in June 2024, is a joint venture between Pentamaster, Taiwan’s Ahead Optoelectronics Inc (AOI), and Cayman-based JC Capital Ltd (JCC). Pentamaster made the investment through its wholly owned unit, Pentamaster Innoteq Sdn Bhd. Upon completion, AOI will hold 71.42%, while Pentamaster and JCC will each own 14.29%. JCC’s participation will come via up to US$3 million in convertible notes. AOI is known for its optical integration products such as wafer-level lenses and 3D sensing modules, while JCC serves as an investment vehicle. With a capital base of up to US$21 million (RM88.80 million), Ahead will focus on importing and exporting electronic components. Pentamaster said the venture aligns with its push into opto-electronics and silicon photonics — technologies that merge light and electronics for faster, more energy-efficient devices. These advances are seen as vital to powering the next generation of AI servers and high-performance data centres. The silicon photonics interconnect market is projected to grow by more than 20% annually, potentially reaching US$9.65 billion by 2030, driven by rising demand for ultra-fast connectivity. “The board believes this investment will enhance Pentamaster’s long-term growth and financial performance,” the company said in a filing. The deal does not require shareholder or regulatory approval and is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025. Pentamaster shares ended four sen, or 1.13%, lower at RM3.51 on Thursday, valuing the group at RM2.50 billion.

Investment & Market Trends

Bidders Value Starbucks China At Around US$5 billion

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HONG KONG, Starbucks’ China operations have drawn initial bids valuing the business at up to US$5 billion (RM21.1 billion), according to people familiar with the matter. If completed, the deal would rank among the largest divestments of a China unit by a global consumer brand in recent years. The offers, which have not been reported previously, give Starbucks momentum to proceed with the partial sale as it faces slowing economic growth and rising competition from local rivals. Around 10 prospective buyers were invited to submit non-binding bids in early September, Reuters reported earlier. Most of the offers valued Starbucks China at about 10 times its estimated 2025 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) of US$400 million to US$500 million, the sources said. At least one bidder proposed a higher multiple in the “high teens.” This valuation is broadly in line with Starbucks’ biggest competitor in the market, Luckin Coffee, which currently trades at around nine times its projected Ebitda over the next 12 months. Luckin has been rapidly expanding its footprint, especially in smaller Chinese cities, while winning over price-sensitive customers with cheaper drinks. The bidders’ identities remain confidential, but earlier reports named potential suitors such as private equity firms Carlyle, EQT, Bain Capital, Hillhouse Investment, Primavera Capital and Chinese tech giant Tencent. It is unclear whether all invited parties submitted offers. A Starbucks spokesperson declined to comment on the valuation or bidding process but pointed to the company’s record international sales growth and a return to revenue growth in China in recent quarters. Globally, Starbucks trades at an enterprise value of about 20.6 times its trailing 12-month Ebitda, according to LSEG data. The Seattle-based company has a market capitalisation of around US$99 billion. Starbucks has not disclosed how large a stake it intends to sell, though executives previously ruled out a full divestment. CEO Brian Niccol reiterated in July that the company will retain a “meaningful” stake in its China unit. China remains critical for Starbucks, housing more than 20% of its global outlets. However, its market share has slipped to 14% in 2023, down from 34% in 2019, according to Euromonitor International. To regain momentum, the company has rolled out more affordable non-coffee beverages and China-specific menu items while accelerating store openings. Comparable-store sales in China rose 2% in the quarter ended June 29, after showing no growth in the prior quarter. The bidding process is expected to move into a second round where shortlisted candidates will submit binding offers, the sources said, though the exact timeline remains uncertain.

News

HSBC Appoints New Hong Kong CEO Amid Leadership Shake-Up In Key Market

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HSBC Holdings Plc is making major leadership changes in its key Hong Kong operations, appointing Maggie Ng as the new chief executive officer for Hong Kong. Ng will succeed Luanne Lim, who has been named CEO of HSBC’s subsidiary Hang Seng Bank. Ng will also retain her current role as head of retail banking and wealth management for Hong Kong, HSBC said in a statement. The appointments will take effect in October, subject to regulatory approval. Maggie Ng as the new chief executive officer for Hong Kong. As part of the reshuffle, Diana Cesar will step down as CEO of Hang Seng Bank to become vice-chairman for Hong Kong at HSBC’s Asia unit, where she will advise the co-CEOs for Asia and the Middle East. The changes come as Hong Kong — HSBC’s largest market — continues to be a central focus for the bank. Group CEO Georges Elhedery, who took the helm last year, has been restructuring the bank to improve efficiency, including merging its commercial and investment banking arms and turning its Hong Kong and UK operations into standalone entities. Ng, who joined HSBC in 2020 as head of wealth and personal banking in Hong Kong, will take on the new role with extensive experience in the sector. Meanwhile, Lim, who has been with HSBC since 1999, will lead Hang Seng Bank at a challenging time, as the lender faces rising bad loans tied to Hong Kong’s struggling commercial property sector.

News

Malaysia Airlines To Restart Chengdu Flights After Nine-Year Break

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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia Airlines Bhd will restart flights to Chengdu, China on Jan 9, 2026, marking its return to the route after a nine-year gap. The service, suspended in 2017 as part of a network restructuring, will connect Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) with Chengdu Tianfu International Airport via a direct daily flight. With this addition, the carrier will serve seven destinations in Greater China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong and Taipei. Parent company Malaysia Aviation Group Bhd (MAG) said the move strengthens its position in one of Asia’s fastest-growing travel markets, supported by the recent reciprocal visa-free arrangement between Malaysia and China. MAG group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said China recorded an average load factor of 81% in the first half of 2025, underscoring the strong demand. “With the visa-free travel arrangement now in place, we are well positioned to capture the growing demand from both leisure and business travellers in one of the world’s most dynamic markets,” he said during a media briefing. Firefly widens regional reach MAG’s low-cost arm, Firefly, will also expand its footprint in November with new jet services from KLIA to Krabi (Thailand), Siem Reap (Cambodia) and Cebu (the Philippines). “These additions strengthen Firefly’s role in enhancing Asean connectivity, providing travellers with seamless access to popular regional destinations while supporting tourism and trade,” MAG said. Izham added that the group’s new routes and higher flight frequencies reflect its strategy of positioning Malaysia as a key aviation hub. “With the network expansions, upgraded products, and our people driving these efforts, MAG is ready to deliver greater value to customers while reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a gateway to Asia and beyond,” he said. Fleet and frequency expansion Starting October, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will boost frequencies across their networks. Malaysia Airlines will add flights to Australia, New Zealand, China, India, the Maldives and Bangladesh, while Firefly will grow services to Singapore and major Malaysian cities including Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang and Johor Bahru. The network expansion is aligned with MAG’s fleet modernisation plan, highlighted by the introduction of new Airbus A330neo aircraft on selected long-haul routes to Australia and New Zealand. The A330neo delivers better fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and supports the group’s sustainability goals. By the first quarter of 2026, Malaysia Airlines will operate the youngest widebody fleet in Australasia, MAG said, reinforcing both its sustainability agenda and its commitment to service excellence. Malaysia Airlines currently operates 86 aircraft, comprising 54 narrowbody and 32 widebody jets. The airline has already received six Airbus A330neo and 14 Boeing 737-8 aircraft this year, with two more A330neos due before the end of 2025.

Investment & Market Trends

AmanahRaya Trustees Partners With CoKeeps To Boost Digital Asset Infrastructure

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KUALA LUMPUR, AmanahRaya Trustees Bhd (ART), a wholly owned unit of Amanah Raya Bhd, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with CoKeeps Sdn Bhd to explore the development of Digital Asset Custodian (DAC) services. In a joint statement, both parties said the collaboration represents a key step in advancing digital transformation, enhancing investor confidence, and strengthening Malaysia’s financial ecosystem. The partnership will combine ART’s expertise in fiduciary and trusteeship with CoKeeps’ position as Malaysia’s first Securities Commission (SC)-registered digital asset custodian. Together, they aim to create a testbed for tokenisation and build certified digital asset infrastructure to support corporate clients, private mandates, estate planning, and future tokenisation projects. ART chief executive officer Zainudin Suhaimi said digital assets are reshaping wealth management, and trustees must evolve to meet new market needs. “By bridging traditional fiduciary roles with modern infrastructure, AmanahRaya Trustees will continue to be a trusted partner in today’s fast-changing financial landscape,” he said. CoKeeps CEO Suhanna Hussein added that the collaboration is an important step toward building a secure and reliable digital asset ecosystem that complies with regulations while keeping pace with market expectations. “This partnership aligns with the government’s digital economy agenda and ensures custodial frameworks are built on strong governance, compliance, and risk management, paving the way for tokenisation and long-term value creation,” she said.

Media OutReach

CHiQ Showcases Panda-Themed AI Tech, FIS Sponsorship, and ESG Leadership at IFA 2025

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BERLIN, GERMANY – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 September 2025 – The Internationale Funkausstellung (IFA), the world’s leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances, kicked off on September 5 in Berlin. At this year’s event, Changhong drew global attention with the debut of its panda-themed smart appliances, a strategic new partnership in winter sports, and a compelling demonstration of ESG initiatives, all underscoring the brand’s prowess in innovation and cultural storytelling. Unveiled at IFA, Changhong’s panda-inspired product line artfully blends iconic cultural motifs with cutting-edge AI technology. The AI TV features an intelligent virtual companion, Panda Xiaobai, delivering round-the-clock interactive engagement and curated panda-themed content. The refrigerator uses AI-powered cloud humidity control to preserve freshness, while the air conditioner employs adaptive AI algorithms to fine-tune indoor climate with precision. Drawing from ink-wash aesthetics and panda silhouettes, the design reflects a graceful fusion of technological sophistication and natural elegance. At the exhibition, CHiQ, Changhong’s international brand, announced a strategic three-year partnership with the International Ski Federation (FIS), becoming the official partner of the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup. Building on its existing involvement in German FIS events since 2023 and its collaboration with the German Ski Association (DSV), the agreement represents a significant step forward in CHiQ’s global sports marketing strategy. The brand also reaffirmed its alliance with ski jumping world champion Andreas Wellinger, jointly promoting the values of excellence and perseverance. Furthering its commitment to inclusive sports, CHiQ became the official sponsor of the Wheelchair Tennis Open, hosted by the German Tennis Federation (DTB). At IFA 2025, DTB awarded CHiQ an honorary partnership certificate, recognizing its role in bridging technology and sport while advancing ESG values. This collaboration highlights CHiQ’s dedication to driving meaningful social impact through innovation and championing diversity, equality, and sustainability on a global scale. In recognition of its achievements, CHiQ was honored with the “Leading AI Home Appliance Brand Award” at IFA 2025, celebrating its pioneering contributions to intelligent manufacturing and AI-driven innovation. CHiQ’s strong presence at this year’s exhibition reflects a global strategy firmly rooted in technological innovation and cultural resonance. By integrating emblematic Chinese imagery and forging alliances with premier international sports platforms, the brand continues to elevate its premium positioning. Bolstered by its green technologies and AI-powered solutions, CHiQ has garnered widespread acclaim for its visionary approach. As Changhong’s flagship for international markets, CHiQ is poised to steadily earn consumer trust through relentless innovation and authentic value creation. Hashtag: #CHiQ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

Andamanda Phuket Named to TripBest 2025 Top 100 Family-Friendly Attractions with Stunning James Bond Island Views and 25 World-Class Slides

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PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 September 2025 – Phuket, Thailand is world-famous for its beaches, but today it offers travelers much more. At the heart of its new attractions stands Andamanda Phuket Water Park, a destination that has just been recognized with multiple awards: Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2025, Trip Best 2025 – Global Top 100 Family-Friendly Attractions. Blending Thai mythology, natural design, and world-class rides, Andamanda has quickly become a must-visit for families, couples, and international travelers. Andamanda Phuket – Thai heritage-themed water park, top family-friendly destination with 36 slides across 100,000 sqm. Popular among international travelers, ranked in 2025 Global 100 Family-Friendly Attractions. A Tropical Playground of Thrills and Nature Spread across 100,000 square meters, Andamanda is Phuket’s biggest water park, featuring 25 signature attractions, 36 slide lanes, Southeast Asia’s longest lazy river (550m) and a 10,000m² wave pool. The park is set within lush tropical landscapes and five iconic zones, each inspired by Thai legends — making it not just fun, but also cultural and photogenic. Travelers who love island-hopping tours, nature escapes, and iconic views like Phang Nga Bay’s James Bond Island will find Andamanda perfectly complements their Phuket itinerary. Designed for Every Traveler Andamanda offers customized experiences for families, groups of friends, and schools. Parents appreciate the safe kids’ zones with lifeguards, while luxury-seekers can book private cabanas or water villas complete with air conditioning and restrooms. Dining Without Limits Guests can savor authentic Thai classics, explore a wide range of international favorites, or choose from vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options. For those who like to explore beyond the ordinary, the park also offers signature cocktails, refreshing mocktails, and tropical-inspired beverages served in poolside bar. Live Shows and Thai Culture Andamanda is more than slides and pools. Daily live entertainment includes Muay Thai showcases and the breathtaking performance “The Story of Andamanda”, a cultural show that brings Thai folklore to life with music, dance, and visuals. Accessible, Family-Friendly & Instagrammable Located just minutes from Phuket Town and major resorts, Andamanda Phuket offers fun for all ages with dedicated kids’ zones, family facilities, and Ellis & Associates certified safety standards. Its Thai-inspired design, colorful sculptures, and tropical setting make it one of the most Instagrammable attractions in Thailand. Hashtag: #Phuket #AndamandaPhuket #Travel #Thailand #Mustvisit https://www.facebook.com/Andamandaphuket/https://www.instagram.com/andamandaphuket/https://www.tiktok.com/@andamandaphuket The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Andamanda Phuket Andamanda Phuket – Thai heritage-themed water park, top family-friendly destination with 36 slides across 100,000 sqm. Popular among international travelers, ranked in 2025 Global 100 Family-Friendly Attractions.

Media OutReach

Olight Shines at IFA 2025, Setting a New Benchmark for Mobile Lighting

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BERLIN, GERMANY – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 September 2025 – Global lighting innovator Olight is making a bold statement at IFA 2025 in Berlin with the launch of its new ArkPro Series. The slogan of this series is “Rethink Light, Reimagine Style” This series of advanced portable flashlights includes ArkPro, ArkPro Ultra and ArkPro Lite, and integrates multiple functions into one, redefining the performance and design of portable lighting. As one of the world’s leading consumer electronics trade shows, IFA offers the perfect stage for Olight to showcase its latest breakthroughs to a global audience. Industry-first Features and Product Innovation Leading the lineup are the ArkPro and ArkPro Ultra. ArkPro reimagines the everyday carry with an iconic flat profile, a refined design, and masterful craftsmanship. Equipped with compact 4 Lights, 7 Configurations: Switch seamlessly between pure flood (pure flood delivers a soft, seamless beam with a wide field of view, making it the ideal light source for close-up illumination within 5 meters. No glare, no boundaries) , spotlight, and UV using the intuitive, precisely calibrated rotary selector. The green laser operates separately or together with any of the other 3 lights, giving you 7 total lighting configurations. Equipped with Industry leading precision laser microperforations,unveil a dual-color indicator, while the meticulously tuned rotary selector, concave button, and textured grip conform to the hand. ArkPro debuts the industry’s first dual-tone design. Building on this, the ArkPro Ultra uses Olight’s exclusive superalloy OAL™ and custom LEDs to merge spotlight and floodlight in one, delivering a brighter, purer beam with improved efficiency. It also introduces the Arkbeat breathing light—a soft, seven-color pulse that changes based on usage time, symbolizing your evolving bond with your gear. Built for Versatility Across Everyday and Outdoor Use Priced between €95.95 and €159.95, the ArkPro Series offers a model for every user. Available in a range of finishes, these lights are ideal for everyday tasks, outdoor adventures, emergencies, and professional use. Additional functions include UV detection, pet play, Laser precise positioning, car repairs, and even social media content creation. Strengthening Market Presence in Germany Olight’s appearance at IFA complements its growing footprint in Germany, following its successful participation at IWA OutdoorClassics. The brand continues to earn trust through product excellence and a strong focus on user experience. Alongside innovation, Olight remains deeply committed to global social responsibility. The company actively supports charitable efforts, disaster relief, and public welfare initiatives around the world. Visit Olight at IFA 2025 from September 5–9 at Messe Berlin, Hall 1.2, Booth 193 (Messedamm 22, 14055 Berlin, Germany). Learn more at de.olight.com and follow Olight Deutschland on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Hashtag: #Olight The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Olight Olight is a global innovator in the field of portable lighting, founded in 2007, dedicated to improving lives through reliable, high-performance portable lighting. Its products serve outdoor, professional, and everyday needs, with a focus on innovation, usability, and quality.

Media OutReach

Hainan-Hong Kong Cultural Tourism Integration Upgrades “One-Trip, Multiple-Stops” Travel Experience in China

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 September 2025 – The Hainan Free Trade Port Tourism and Culture (Hong Kong) Series Promotion Events will be held from September 7 to 11 at Hong Kong’s K11 Art Mall, marking a new chapter of tropical island tourism in China for visitors from Hong Kong and beyond. The Hainan Free Trade Port Tourism and Culture (Hong Kong) Series Promotion Events will be held from September 7 to 11 at Hong Kong’s K11 Art Mall. With its extensive global flight network, Hong Kong welcomes tens of millions of international tourists annually. Just across the strait, Hainan is also one of China’s most popular tourist destinations. The two regions share geographical proximity, cultural similarities, and close business ties, creating a strong foundation and vast potential for collaboration. In recent years, tourism and cultural exchanges between Hainan and Hong Kong have flourished. A growing number of residents and tourists frequently travel between the two destinations, fostering mutual learning and cooperation in the tourism sector. In April, tourism associations from both sides signed a strategic agreement to jointly develop “one-trip, multiple-stops” itineraries, offering differentiated and complementary high-end tourism experiences that greatly enrich trips for international visitors. Leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector,” Hainan has increased flight frequency between Hong Kong and Haikou/Sanya, enabling seamless travel from the “Pearl of the Orient” to “Sunshine Hainan” and creating a “one-hour tourism circle” for global travelers. According to the latest data from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province, from January to July, over 85,000 tourists entered Hainan from Hong Kong, a year-on-year increase of 28.8%. The upcoming promotion event will showcase Hainan’s cultural and tourism features through diverse formats such as “imaging + intangible heritage + food + performances.” Over 80 finely curated photographs will display the authentic, dynamic, and vibrant essence of Hainan, while nearly 200 exhibits will highlight world-class, national, and provincial intangible cultural heritage items including Li brocade, coconut carvings, Miao embroidery, and bamboo weaving. More than 10 interactive activities and performances, such as martial arts demonstrations, folk singing and dancing, and artistic nail art, will emphasize the innovative reinterpretation of Hainan’s traditional culture. Furthermore, Hainan’s visa-free policy for citizens from 86 countries, 144-hour visa-free entry for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao, and 240-hour transit visa exemption provide favorable conditions and broad possibilities for future cooperation across various fields. Wang Yuechuan, Director of the International and Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Market Promotion Office of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province, stated: “We are actively collaborating with major Hong Kong enterprises to develop international performances, art exhibitions, cultural tourism, and broadcasting and film projects. Additionally, we are promoting exchanges in more than nine sports events including martial arts, dragon boat racing, and golf.” Hashtag: #Hainan The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

China’s first independent university run by a foreign university makes “Study in Hainan” more appealing

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DANZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 September 2025 – Recently, the permanent campus of Hainan Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (BiUH), China’s first independent university run by an overseas higher education institution, was opened in Yangpu, Hainan Free Trade Port, more than 700 teachers and students started a new learning journey. China’s first independent university run by a foreign university makes “Study in Hainan” more appealing According to Judith Peltz, vice president of BiUH, the “practice-integrated” educational model of the Hochschule Bielefeld – University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSBI) is fully utilized, classes are taught in English, German courses are offered, and a multilingual learning environment (i.e., Chinese, English, and German) is fostered. At present, four undergraduate majors are available, namely computer science, digital technologies, industrial engineering, and logistics engineering. “The modern teaching environment of the new campus provides us with ideal learning conditions, and I am looking forward to starting my university life here.” Jiang Yuhan, a logistics engineering freshman enrolled in 2025, said. The first phase of the permanent campus covers an area of about 20 hectares, costs an investment of 1.04 billion yuan, and can accommodate at least 2,500 students. Facilities include welcome center, public teaching building, experimental building, student center, student dormitory, teacher apartment, sports field, etc. The second phase, scheduled to be completed in 2029, will accommodate more than 12,000 students. China’s first independent university run by a foreign university makes “Study in Hainan” more appealing BiUH has signed strategic cooperation agreements with 10 well-known Chinese and foreign enterprises, including Weidmüller, ZF, TRUMPF (China), and China Mobile Hainan Branch, so that students can embrace career opportunities around the world. “Our philosophy is ‘doing by learning, learning by doing,’ which not only creates connection between academia and industry but also allows education, talent training, and industrial development to be well integrated in Hainan.” Judith Peltz expressed that BiUH will leverage the high-quality educational resources of China and Germany to become a top-tier application-oriented university in the Asia-Pacific region or even in the world. In fact, Hainan is building momentum in the “Study in Hainan” campaign, cultivating an international exchange gateway facing the Pacific and Indian Oceans, providing a new platform for cooperation with the “Belt and Road” countries, and playing an increasingly important role in China’s education opening up. Hashtag: #BiUH The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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