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Favelle Favco Secures RM77.6mil Worth Of New Crane Orders

KUALA LUMPUR, Crane manufacturer Favelle Favco Bhd announced that its subsidiaries have secured six new purchase orders for the supply of tower and offshore cranes, with a combined value of RM77.6 million. According to the company’s filing with Bursa Malaysia on Friday, four of the contracts involve offshore cranes to be delivered by Favelle Favco Cranes (M) Sdn Bhd to Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Sdn Bhd, Offshore Oil Engineering Co Ltd, PVD Trading and Technical Services Joint Stock Company, and Abu Adel Engineering and Mechanical Services. The remaining two orders are for tower cranes, to be supplied by Shanghai Favco Engineering Machinery Manufacturing Co Ltd to Favco Heavy Industry (Changshu) Co Ltd, and by Favelle Favco Cranes (USA) Inc to Leavitt Cranes. Delivery timelines vary, with two contracts scheduled for completion by end-2025 and the first quarter of 2026, while the other four are expected to be fulfilled by the third quarter of 2026. These latest orders push Favelle Favco’s outstanding order book to RM797 million, up from RM528 million in February this year. The company has been on a steady winning streak, having secured five orders worth RM43.9 million in May, following RM147.1 million in contracts won in March. Favelle Favco’s share price remained unchanged at RM1.58 on Friday, giving the group a market capitalisation of RM374.73 million. However, the counter has declined by 8% year-to-date.

Investment & Market Trends

AirAsia Eyes Expanded Hong Kong Routes And Explores Potential Market Listing

KUALA LUMPUR, AirAsia is setting its sights on strengthening its presence in Hong Kong, with plans to expand connectivity to the territory as part of its broader regional growth strategy. The low-cost carrier is eyeing increased flight frequencies and the introduction of new routes linking Hong Kong with key Southeast Asian cities, aiming to tap into rising travel demand driven by both tourism and business sectors. AirAsia’s strategic move comes as the aviation industry in the region continues to rebound following pandemic disruptions, with Hong Kong regaining its status as a key transit hub for international travellers. The airline believes greater connectivity will not only boost passenger numbers but also strengthen trade and tourism flows between Malaysia, ASEAN countries, and Greater China. In addition to its network expansion, AirAsia is reportedly exploring the possibility of a stock market listing in Hong Kong. The potential move, still in its preliminary stages, is aimed at enhancing the group’s capital base, attracting new investors from North Asia, and raising its profile in one of the world’s leading financial markets. Industry analysts say the dual focus on route growth and a possible listing underscores AirAsia’s confidence in its post-pandemic recovery trajectory, as well as its ambition to cement a stronger foothold in the Greater China travel market. No official timeline has been disclosed for either the network expansion or the proposed listing, with further announcements expected as plans progress.

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Vestland Wins RM56.38 Million Contract For Kelantan Palace Project

PETALING JAYA, Vestland Bhd has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Vestland Resources Sdn Bhd, has secured a subcontract worth RM56.38 million from Euro Saga Sdn Bhd to carry out construction-related works for the Kelantan Palace in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. According to its filing with Bursa Malaysia, the scope of works under the subcontract will officially commence on 8 August 2025 and is scheduled for completion within 24 months, with the targeted handover date set for 7 August 2027. Vestland noted that the project is expected to contribute positively to the group’s earnings and net assets throughout the contract period, provided there are no significant delays or unforeseen interruptions. The company also emphasised that the contract win reflects its strong track record and capabilities in delivering high-quality construction projects within strict timelines. “The award of this subcontract not only strengthens our project portfolio but also reinforces our position as a trusted construction partner for high-profile and specialised developments,” Vestland said in the statement. The Kelantan Palace project is anticipated to be one of the key highlights in the company’s ongoing expansion strategy, enabling it to tap into more niche and premium construction segments in the future.

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Visionary CEO Justin Anthony Accelerates MAICSA’s Strategic Shift Through CommercePay

The Malaysian Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (MAICSA) has taken a major leap in its digital transformation journey by implementing CommercePay, a secure and versatile digital payment gateway developed by Commerce.Asia. The move aims to streamline financial transactions and enhance the experience for its professional community of over 4,200 members. Calling the initiative a “milestone”, MAICSA CEO Justin Joseph Anthony said the adoption reflects the Institute’s ongoing commitment to innovation and service excellence. “With CommercePay now powering our payment system, members can enjoy faster, more reliable and more flexible transactions — whether renewing memberships, registering for exams, signing up for events or making purchases — all with greater ease and confidence,” Justin said in a statement to BusinessToday Malaysia. The shift comes as MAICSA faced increasing challenges with its previous manual payment process, which required lengthy verification and reconciliation, particularly during peak periods, causing delays and adding administrative burden. CommercePay addresses these issues with features such as real-time tracking, instant confirmations, automated reconciliation, and multiple payment options — including FPX, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets — ensuring secure and seamless transactions. “From a governance standpoint, it’s essential that stakeholders trust that all interactions, including payments, are conducted with transparency and integrity,” Justin added. “CommercePay allows us to uphold that trust while improving operational efficiency.” Since implementation, the platform has already delivered tangible results — reducing manual workloads for administrative and finance teams, improving data accuracy, and speeding up transaction processing. Members now benefit from a smoother, more responsive payment experience. CommercePay General Manager Patricia Silvanus said the partnership demonstrates how fintech can help even long-established institutions modernise and thrive. “CommercePay was built for professional, service-oriented organisations like MAICSA,” she said. “Its scalability, strong security and seamless integration allow organisations to grow without compromising compliance or stability. We’re proud to support MAICSA in leading governance excellence through innovation.” The collaboration forms part of MAICSA’s broader digital transformation strategy to integrate technology across all touchpoints — from member engagement to education delivery and operations — ensuring the Institute remains at the forefront of governance advocacy and professional development. Founded in 1959, MAICSA is a recognised leader in corporate governance, company secretarial practice, and compliance. Under Justin’s leadership, the Institute has accelerated its digital initiatives while staying true to its values of integrity, accountability and service to the profession. CommercePay, which is gaining strong traction among Malaysian SMEs, professional bodies, and digital-first businesses, continues to expand its reach, empowering organisations to enhance efficiency, transparency, and value in the digital economy.

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Classita Names Former Public Service Director-General As Executive Director

Classita Holdings Bhd has announced the appointment of Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Mohd Khairul Adib bin Abd Rahman, 63, as a Non-Independent, Non-Executive Director, effective 8 August. With an extensive background in public administration, Tan Sri Mohd Khairul Adib previously served as Director-General of the Public Service Department from October 2019 to January 2022. He was appointed Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport (MOT) in August 2017 and later promoted to Secretary-General in January 2019. Throughout his career, he has held senior positions in various ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development, Ministry of Science, Technology and the Environment (MOSTE), and the Ministry of Education (MOE). He has also served in Malaysia’s diplomatic missions in Japan and the United Kingdom. His boardroom experience spans multiple government-linked entities such as the Employees Provident Fund, Inland Revenue Board, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, MyHSR Corporation Sdn Bhd, and the Malaysian Aviation Commission. Currently, Tan Sri Mohd Khairul Adib is the Executive Deputy Chairman of NexG Bhd and a board member of Westports Holdings Bhd. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Saitama University, Japan, a Bachelor of Science (Hons) from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management from the National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN). According to the company’s filing, he has no family ties with any director or major shareholder, no conflict of interest with Classita Holdings, and holds a deemed interest in 402,057,900 ordinary shares and 414,312,800 warrants C.

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Brazilian Meat Processing Giant JBS To Establish Two New Facilities In Vietnam

Brazilian meat giant JBS S.A. is moving forward with plans to invest in two export-oriented food processing plants in Vietnam, following an announcement made in March. The investment was confirmed during a meeting in Hanoi between Vietnam Customs deputy director Au Anh Tuan and JBS investment director Fabio Maia de Oliveira. The first facility will be built in the northern port city of Hai Phong, followed by a second in Ho Chi Minh City. The initiative aligns with remarks by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during his March visit to Vietnam, when he disclosed that a Brazilian company would invest US\$100 million in beef processing in the country. Reuters later identified the investor as JBS, one of the world’s largest meat producers. During the meeting, the JBS executive sought details on customs procedures for importing meat, offal, and by-products from Brazil to Vietnam for processing, with plans to re-export to China and other markets. Tuan assured that Vietnam Customs would provide maximum procedural support, while emphasising the need for compliance with veterinary inspections and sector-specific regulations. He also encouraged JBS to take advantage of Vietnam’s 17 free trade agreements to benefit from preferential tariffs. Founded in Brazil, JBS operates more than 250 facilities worldwide, employs over 280,000 people, and serves customers in more than 180 countries. The investment is expected to bolster Vietnam’s role as a manufacturing and distribution hub for JBS in Asia, while creating substantial job opportunities for the local workforce.

Investment & Market Trends

Bina Puri Gains Bank Negara Mediation For Debt Restructuring

Bina Puri Holdings Bhd (BPHB) has received approval from Bank Negara Malaysia’s Corporate Debt Restructuring Committee (CDRC) to mediate negotiations with its lenders as part of its ongoing debt restructuring plan. In a filing today, the company said the move is intended to strengthen its financial position and address outstanding liabilities to secure long-term sustainability. BPHB has been in discussions with lenders since April 2025 to develop a mutually acceptable restructuring scheme. It now sees CDRC’s involvement as key to facilitating a resolution. Under the approval terms, BPHB must adhere to the CDRC Participant’s Code of Conduct, submit a proposed restructuring plan to lenders within 60 days, and observe a six-month Informal Standstill Agreement — extendable at CDRC’s discretion. The mediation will follow CDRC’s guidelines, with the company’s operations continuing as usual throughout the process.

Investment & Market Trends

ASEAN Set To Enhance Free Trade Agreement With Japan

OSAKA, ASEAN has declared its readiness to upgrade its free trade agreement (FTA) with Japan, aiming to refresh the long-standing pact to reflect today’s economic landscape. ASEAN Deputy Secretary-General for the Economic Community Satvinder Singh said the ASEAN–Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP), signed in 2008, needs to be updated in line with evolving market realities. “The current FTA was designed decades ago. The timing is right for a review, much like how we have upgraded agreements with other major partners,” he said at a joint press conference with Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. Satvinder highlighted ASEAN’s recent success in modernising trade agreements with China, Australia, New Zealand, and India — adding new focus areas such as e-commerce, innovation, sustainability, and global supply chain resilience. “Japan should naturally be one of ASEAN’s priorities in the coming years. We are ready to engage whenever Japan is ready,” he noted, adding that current global economic challenges make such an upgrade even more valuable. He said ASEAN fits seamlessly into Japan’s global strategy, especially in supporting supply chain diversification, and pointed to growing interest from Japanese companies in strengthening their business presence in the region. Meanwhile, Tengku Zafrul said the upcoming Expo 2025 Osaka offers an ideal opportunity for ASEAN to highlight its identity, diversity, and unity on the world stage. “We look forward to welcoming Japan to the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting in September and the ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in October. Continuous dialogue builds trust, and that trust paves the way for a stronger ASEAN and a better Asia for future generations,” he said.

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KPDN Proposes New Legislation To Oversee Digital Trade

KOTA KINABALU, The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is moving forward with plans to introduce a dedicated law to regulate e-commerce, aiming to create a safer, more transparent, and better-organised digital trade environment nationwide. Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said the proposed legislation will focus on three main pillars: clearly defining industry responsibilities, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and strengthening protections for both consumers and small businesses. “KPDN is committed to ensuring that Malaysia’s e-commerce ecosystem remains innovative while upholding safety, transparency, and ethical business practices,” she said, calling for cooperation from all stakeholders to achieve these objectives. Her remarks came after chairing the second E-Commerce Legislative Review Engagement Session, which brought together representatives from industry, digital platforms, merchant associations, consumer advocacy groups, legal experts, academics, and government agencies. The engagement was part of the ministry’s effort to update regulations to match the fast-evolving nature of online commerce. Fuziah noted that while e-commerce has become a key driver in Malaysia’s digital economy, rapid growth has also brought risks such as fraud, unsafe products, and cross-border enforcement challenges. Findings from the E-Commerce Legal Review Study have recommended a new legal framework to improve governance, boost consumer trust, and ensure greater industry accountability. KPDN expects to finalise the draft law soon, with the goal of strengthening Malaysia’s position as a trusted and competitive player in the global digital marketplace.

Investment & Market Trends

Indonesia’s Biggest Bank Secures Full Banking License To Launch Operations In Taiwan

JAKARTA, Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), the nation’s largest lender by assets, has officially opened a new branch in Taipei, marking a significant expansion into East Asia. The move aims to capture opportunities from growing trade ties and remittance flows between Indonesia and Taiwan. Strategically located on Nanjing East Road in Taipei’s Zhongshan District, the branch is positioned to serve a market with substantial growth potential, fueled by rising cross-border transactions and a sizeable Indonesian community in Taiwan. Hery Gunardi, president director of Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), delivers a speech during the openin of the BRI Taipei branch in Taiwan, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025.  BRI President Director Hery Gunardi said the Taipei branch will play a pivotal role in supporting the financial needs of approximately 360,000 Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan — a key contributor group to Indonesia’s economy. “As the only Indonesian bank branch in Taiwan, BRI Taipei is committed to providing comprehensive banking services, including remittances, savings, and investment products, to help our migrant workers plan and secure their financial future,” Hery said. The branch offers integrated financial solutions such as savings products, financing services, remittance facilities, and foreign exchange transactions. It has also launched a BRI ATM card that can be used across Taiwan’s banking network. Beyond serving the Indonesian community, BRI hopes to position the branch as a gateway for Taiwanese investment into Indonesia by offering competitive investment returns. “We see this as an opportunity to facilitate more Taiwanese investors entering the Indonesian market,” Hery added. Rp 40 Trillion in Annual Remittances Arif Sulistiyo, head of the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office (KDEI) in Taipei, welcomed the expansion, noting that it would help strengthen economic cooperation between the two economies. Taiwan is home to nearly 400,000 Indonesians — the third-largest overseas Indonesian community after Malaysia and Saudi Arabia — with the majority working as caregivers and factory workers. These migrant workers send more than Rp 40 trillion (US$2.5 billion) home annually. The Taipei branch secured its full retail foreign bank license in 2021 from Taiwanese regulators, enabling it to offer a complete suite of banking services, including deposits, lending, remittances, trade financing, and treasury operations.

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