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News

Ramssol Divests 40% Stake in Rider Gate for RM25 Million

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Ramssol Group Berhad has formalised a share sale agreement with Sagtec Global Ltd for the disposal of its 40% equity interest in Rider Gate Sdn Bhd. The transaction is valued at RM25 million and will be settled through the issuance of Sagtec consideration shares equivalent to the disposal sum. Rider Gate, currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ramssol, is engaged in mobile applications, electronic commerce, and integrated information systems. The divestment marks a strategic step for Ramssol, aimed at enhancing Rider Gate’s commercial scalability. According to Ramssol, the partial sale will enable the group to capitalise on Sagtec’s capital strength and operational expertise to fast-track the commercialisation of Rider Gate’s platforms and services. The company stated that the proposed disposal aligns with Sagtec’s broader growth ambitions, allowing it to invest in a fully operational platform capable of immediate market monetisation. Furthermore, Sagtec’s core competencies in software development are said to complement Rider Gate’s technology demands. Ramssol added that Sagtec’s experienced team is adept at delivering tailored solutions, often initiated through comprehensive development blueprints such as white papers. -The Star

Energy & Technology, News

Malaysia Mandates Strategic Trade Permit for US-Origin AI Chip Exports

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The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) has announced the immediate enforcement of a Strategic Trade Permit requirement for all exports, transshipments and transits involving high-performance artificial intelligence (AI) chips of United States origin. The move, aimed at addressing regulatory blind spots, forms part of a broader commitment to uphold Malaysia’s international obligations. In a formal statement, Miti confirmed that the measure is instituted under Section 12 of the Strategic Trade Act 2010 (STA 2010), known as the Catch-All Control provision. This provision compels exporters to notify authorities a minimum of 30 days in advance should they intend to export, transship or transit any item not listed under the Strategic Items List (SIL), where there is knowledge or reasonable suspicion that the item could be misused or linked to restricted activities. “This initiative serves to close regulatory gaps while Malaysia undertakes further review on the inclusion of high-performance AI chips of US origin into the SIL of the STA 2010,” said the ministry. Miti reinforced Malaysia’s zero-tolerance policy toward the circumvention of export controls or participation in illicit trade. It emphasised that individuals or entities found in breach of the STA 2010 will be subject to strict legal action. The ministry underscored that Malaysia remains committed to facilitating investment and trade aligned with international standards and multilateral commitments. It also cautioned that all operating entities must adhere to international obligations to avoid potential secondary sanctions that could impact their commercial interests. “Malaysia will not tolerate any misuse of its jurisdiction for the purposes of illegal trade,” Miti affirmed, reiterating its resolve to ensure a secure, transparent, and rules-based trading environment. Stephen Innes, Managing Director of SPI Asset Management, commented that while the new directive does not directly disrupt Malaysia’s growing AI and data centre ecosystem — which continues to be underpinned by infrastructure expansion, strategic cloud partnerships and local talent — it signals an era of enhanced compliance oversight. “If you want to play in the AI sandbox, you now need to watch your sourcing, disclosure and compliance trail more carefully,” Innes told Bernama. He added that although multinational tech firms may absorb the regulatory shift with relative ease, smaller local enterprises and startups could face headwinds without strong legal frameworks in place. Malaysia’s established role in chip testing and packaging may, however, buffer the broader industry from serious operational disruption. “This law forces the industry to mature quickly in terms of compliance infrastructure. The upside is that it may accelerate Malaysia’s push toward more transparent, globally integrated standards,” he said. Echoing a similar sentiment, economist Professor Geoffrey Williams observed that the regulatory update represents a more cooperative stance compared to previous trade negotiations. “This will deliver a much better chance of lowering the 25% reciprocal tariffs and is better than taking a belligerent stance. It is a closer win-win engagement,” Williams said. He noted that the United States has voiced concern over potential rerouting of AI chips to China via third-party countries within ASEAN, in contravention of US export restrictions. Malaysia’s move, therefore, signifies a key step in the direction of harmonised regional controls. “Getting better coordinated regulation across ASEAN is a positive response to address US concerns, and Malaysia is playing a key role in this,” Williams added, noting that the measure is unlikely to affect the country’s legitimate data centre and AI operations, aside from clamping down on illicit activity. -The Star

News

Malaysia’s Wholesale and Retail Sales Reach RM154.3 Billion in May-DOSM

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Malaysia’s wholesale and retail trade sector recorded a total sales value of RM154.3 billion in May 2025, representing a 4.4 per cent year-on-year increase, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). In an official statement, Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin attributed the growth to robust performances in the retail and wholesale trade sub-sectors. The retail trade segment posted RM67.1 billion in sales, marking a 4.9 per cent or RM3.1 billion increase compared to the same period last year. Similarly, wholesale trade rose to RM68.2 billion, up 4.7 per cent or RM3.1 billion year-on-year, underscoring consistent business activity along the supply chain. Online retail sales also registered growth, with the corresponding index rising 2.2 per cent year-on-year. However, on a seasonally adjusted basis, the index recorded a 3.4 per cent month-on-month decline. In terms of volume index, the sector recorded a 4.1 per cent year-on-year increase. This was led by a 5.8 per cent rise in the wholesale trade volume index, followed by a 3.7 per cent increase in the retail trade index. Digital payment trends further reinforced the sector’s expansion. Malaysia saw a significant uptick in e-money transactions, which surged by 70.2 per cent to RM21.5 billion in May 2025. Real-time retail payments reached RM289.4 billion, indicating rising demand for immediate payment capabilities. Financial process exchange (FPX) transactions also experienced notable growth, increasing by 21.1 per cent to RM39.2 billion, reflecting expanded use of online banking services. Credit card payments remained stable at RM18.7 billion, while debit card usage grew eight per cent to RM14.1 billion. Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir noted that these figures highlight the ongoing transition towards digital payment systems, aligned with evolving consumer behaviour and the broader digital transformation of Malaysia’s financial ecosystem. -Bernama

News

Maybank Extends US$150 Million Sustainability-Linked Loan to AT&S Malaysia

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Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) has extended a sustainability-linked loan (SLL) valued at US$150 million to Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Malaysia Sdn Bhd (AT&S), marking a significant milestone in sustainable finance for the region. In an official statement, Maybank confirmed that the facility represents the first SLL issued by a Malaysian and Southeast Asian commercial bank to AT&S. It is also the inaugural SLL extended by a domestic financial institution to a multinational corporation operating within Malaysia’s semiconductor industry. The loan will support the development of AT&S’s first high-end integrated circuit substrate manufacturing facility located in the Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kedah. The project will incorporate advanced equipment and closed-loop recycling systems, in line with AT&S’s rigorous sustainable energy framework. Embedded in the SLL are environmental performance targets, including a commitment by AT&S to reduce its annual greenhouse gas emissions by 31% by 31 March 2028, benchmarked against its financial year 2022 levels. Maybank stated that this financing aligns with its broader strategy to mobilise sustainable finance and contribute to regional decarbonisation efforts, particularly in high-growth sectors such as semiconductors. -Bernama

News

Zetrix AI Fined and Reprimanded by Bursa Malaysia for Disclosure Failures

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Zetrix AI Bhd, previously known as MyEG Services Bhd, has received a public reprimand from Bursa Malaysia Securities for multiple breaches of the Main Market Listing Requirements. The action also includes financial penalties imposed on seven members of its board. In an official statement, Bursa Malaysia cited the company’s failure to ensure that several public announcements were factual, accurate, and free from false or misleading information. Furthermore, the company did not adhere to a specific directive issued by the exchange. The directive in question required Zetrix AI to provide an immediate clarification on an earlier announcement made on 7 July 2023. Bursa Malaysia had instructed the company on 15 August 2023 to respond, with a deadline set for 16 August 2023. Zetrix AI failed to comply within the stipulated timeframe. As a result, seven directors have each been fined RM150,000. The individuals include Managing Director Wong Thean Soon, Executive Chairman Datuk Norraesah Mohamad, and directors Datuk Mohd Jimmy Wong Abdullah, Wong Kok Chau, Datuk Seri Mohd Mokhtar Mohd Shariff, Datuk Mohd Jeffrey Joakim, and Mohaini Mohd Yusof. Bursa Malaysia’s enforcement action underscores its commitment to maintaining high standards of corporate disclosure and governance within the capital markets. -The Star

Media OutReach

American Express Opens New Centurion Lounge at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport

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NEW YORK, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – On July 16 American Express (NYSE: AXP) will open a new Centurion Lounge at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND), the busiest airport in Japan and one of the busiest airports in the world. The Centurion Lounge at HND marks the 30th to open worldwide and the 4th to open in Asia, joining lounges at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, Hong Kong international Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong, and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai. The new lounge in Tokyo features locally sourced decor and artwork that celebrates Japanese philosophy, craftsmanship, and artistry, a live, open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs cook, a buffet offering a variety of Japanese and Western food and beverages, a dedicated sweets bar nodding to Japan’s snack culture, and private phone rooms that are also equipped with a curated audio program for meditation. Located in Haneda’s Terminal 3 near Gate 114, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the airfield while they rest and refuel before their flights. Main seating area of the Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport “The Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport celebrates Japanese culture, featuring custom artwork, an exciting menu that showcases the flavors of Tokyo, and my personal favorite – private meditation booths to help you recharge and find some calm before your flight,” said Audrey Hendley, President, American Express Travel. “We’ve seen incredible demand for travel to Japan, it is one of the destinations where we’ve seen the highest growth recently. We look forward to showcasing the impeccable service Centurion Lounges are known for in a destination we know is so important to our Card Members.” “Long awaited by our eligible Card Members, we are thrilled to open Japan’s first Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport,” said Yasuhiro Sudo, Senior Vice President, Japan Country Manager at American Express. “We look forward to providing a best-in-class experience with high-quality meals, a wonderful atmosphere, and local charm to eligible Japanese Card Members and eligible Card Members from all over the world. We are committed to delivering the exceptional customer experience American Express proudly offers and is known for.” Select Dishes by Chef Satoshi Ogino, Plus Specialty Drinks and Sweets Bar Acclaimed Chef Satoshi Ogino is known for his mastery of classic Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on seasonality and has helmed the kitchens of several Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo, including his own Akasaka Ogino. In addition to a special lounge menu by Chef Ogino showcasing local flavors in his signature style, the kitchen will also offer Japanese favorites including sushi and ramen, and a buffet will serve both local and global cuisine. A full bar will offer a premium menu of wine, locally inspired cocktails, and a selection of Japanese beers, sake, and shochu1, while a dedicated sweets bar will feature a selection of teas and traditional Japanese Wagashi sweets, plus a rotating menu of additional treats. Art and Design Inspired by Local Craftsmanship and “Japan Blue” Designed by OnBrand, American Express’ in-house creative agency, the lounge is inspired by the philosophy, craftmanship, and artistry of Japanese culture and “Japan Blue.” Produced by the Japanese dyeing technique of Aizome, “Japan Blue” is a deep indigo hue that represents tranquility and stability and is ubiquitous in Japanese art, architecture and fashion. The color is woven throughout the lounge and complemented by natural materials and textures, including slatted wood, stone, and subtle walnut and black ash accents. The bar features elegant Uroko ceramic tiles and a dramatic ceiling canopy, while an Edo-Kiriko-inspired custom chandelier hangs in the main seating area and locally inspired textiles and wall coverings can be found throughout the space. The lounge features commissioned artwork from several local artists, including a custom American Express-inspired mural by Shu Kuroki, and Saki Matsumoto’s textile reimagining of the American Express bulldog, Sir Charles Frosty Blue, as Komainu – a guardian of Japanese shrines symbolizing trust and protection. The artwork also includes ceramics by Ryuji Iwasaki, ink paintings by Ryohei Sasaki, and a traditional Japanese Wajima Nuri lacquerware installation by Miho Yokoyama. The pieces for the installation were sourced from Ishikawa — home of the Wajima Nuri lacquerware tradition — to support recovery efforts following the 2024 earthquake that devastated the Noto Peninsula. At nearly 7,500 square feet, The Centurion Lounge at HND will feature luxury amenities and several areas for travelers to work, relax and recharge before boarding their flights, including: Private phone rooms with curated audio programing for meditation: Private booths that can be used for phone calls or meditation provide functionality and tranquility with acoustical fabric panels, traditional Japanese artwork, and a curated audio program of calming water, forest, bird, and wind sounds. Comfortable seating areas for all types of travelers: Guests will have a wide range of seating options to choose from including armchairs, high tops and dining banquettes, cozy couches, and a private room with seating to accommodate families and small groups, complete with a television. Centurion VIP Room: Centurion Members have access to a VIP area featuring elevated-yet-comfortable furnishings and finishes, including Kumiko style woodwork, a private beverage station, and a curated display of Japanese artwork and photography that captures scenes from the country’s lively festival culture. Signature Centurion Lounge amenities for all types of travelers: Guests will also find signature Centurion Lounge amenities, including dedicated workstations and phone booths, premium shower suites and restrooms, abundant outlets and USB ports, access to complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and more. Meeting More Card Members in More Places With more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer2, the American Express Global Lounge Collection™ is just one of the many ways American Express supports Card Members while they travel. Eligible Card Members have access to more than 1,550 lounges worldwide, including 30 Centurion Lounges. American Express continues to expand and enhance the Centurion Lounge Network with plans announced to open new lounge locations at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City in 2025 and Newark

News

Solid Automotive Acquires SG for RM6 Million

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Solid Automotive Bhd has completed the acquisition of SG, a well-established motor vehicle spare parts trading company, for RM6 million in a strategic move to broaden its footprint in the automotive aftermarket sector. According to its filing with Bursa Malaysia, Solid Automotive acquired the entire issued share capital of SG, comprising 500,000 shares, from its existing shareholders Ng Tian Seow, Leong Foo Weng, and Hong Kok Liang. The acquisition marks a significant step forward for Solid Automotive as it seeks to diversify its revenue streams and enhance profitability within the passenger car segment of the general automotive aftermarket. SG has built a strong reputation in the trading of genuine automotive parts, representing well-known marques such as Perodua, Proton and Nissan. The company’s customer base includes a robust network of over 300 clients, primarily comprising spare parts retailers. Solid Automotive said the acquisition would allow it to leverage SG’s established distribution channels and further consolidate its position in the sector. -The Star

Media OutReach

COUNTRY & SECTOR RISKS – June 2025 The great leap backwards: 23 sectors and 4 countries downgraded

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HONG KONG SAR / SHANGHAI & BEIJING, CHINA / TAIPEI, TAIWAN / SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA / TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – In a context of unprecedented geopolitical and trade uncertainty, the global economy is navigating between an expected slowdown and escalation risks. Trump’s tariff decisions and tensions in the Middle East are reshaping an unpredictable economic landscape for 2025-2026. In this environment, and in view of the measures already in place, Coface has downgraded 23 sectors and 4 countries. Key trends: US tariffs, even if paused or reduced, have already reached historically high levels Nearly 80% of advanced economies recorded an increase in defaults in the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024 The metal sector is the most affected, and traditional industrial sectors (automotive and chemicals) are under pressure. Other sectors that have been downgraded include: In the United States, information and communication technologies and retail In China, textiles and clothing, impacted by customs duties. Global economy: uncertainty is the new normal The global economic outlook is more uncertain than ever, as it depends heavily on (geo)political events and the trade decisions of the US President. The reintroduction of tariffs after the 90-day suspension periods (9 July for the rest of the world, 12 August for China) could have a significant impact on global growth. A marked slowdown is expected (2.2% growth in 2025 and 2.3% in 2026), with mainly downside risks – growth of below 2% cannot be ruled out if the geopolitical and trade situations escalate. The same uncertainty naturally surrounds inflation, whose current stability could be jeopardised. It could reach 4% in the US by the end of 2025, with broader upside risks subsisting in the event of higher energy prices. The major central banks are likely to respond with a continued cautious stance. However, if US inflation is brought under control, the Fed could cut rates as early as the autumn of 2025. The ECB has announced that it will maintain its rate-cutting policy, but added that it is close to its terminal rate. Uncertainty is all the greater in Europe as long-delayed fiscal consolidation policies could finally begin to be implemented, while Germany is engaged in a stimulus programme whose scale is difficult to assess at this stage. Tensions in the Middle East and oversupply: oil balances on a high wire The Israel-Iran conflict has reigniting fears over oil. A disruption or even a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz (the passage for 20 million barrels per day, or 20% of global supply) could push prices above $100 per barrel. Excluding this geopolitical environment, however, fundamentals point to a fall in prices on back of production increases in non-OPEC+ countries, demand weakened by trade tensions and the reintroduction of volumes by OPEC+ members (2.2 million barrels per day). Barring a major crisis, prices should continue to be extremely volatile but remain within a range of $65 to $75 per barrel. Advanced economies: a mix of resilience and vulnerability The US economy faces two uncertainties: the size of customs tariffs and how they will be absorbed by the economy. Despite declining consumer confidence, employment is holding up and the contraction in GDP (-0.2% in Q1) is a reflection of preventive stockpiling by businesses. In Europe, Germany saw a minor uptick in growth in the first quarter, France remains sluggish, Italy could run out of steam, while Spain continues to benefit from tourism and European funds to maintain momentum. Emerging economies are the first victims of trade turmoil In China, the temporary truce on tariffs has led to a surge in exports, but the outlook is fragile. India, despite generating growth of more than 7% in the first quarter, is seeing consumption slow and its fiscal headroom shrink. In Latin America, Mexico is bearing the brunt of trade uncertainty, with zero growth expected in 2025. Brazil, after a rebound in agriculture following El Niño-induced losses, is expected to contract on back of restrictive monetary policy (key rate raised to 15%). In Argentina, the momentum generated by Mileinomics is strong and, despite its low foreign exchange reserves, could post GDP growth of 5% in 2025 and 3.5% in 2026. Metallurgy: 600 million tonnes of steel overcapacity weighing on the global sector The metallurgy sector is experiencing a major crisis, having recorded global steel overcapacity of 600 million tonnes in 2024, which represents 25% of global production. The unfavourable macroeconomic environment, energy tensions and new steel tariffs are exacerbating the situation for steelmakers, particularly in Canada, Mexico and Europe. Canada: the economy is faltering under the weight of tariffs With 75% of its exports headed for the US, Canada is one of the countries most exposed to the trade war. Growth has slowed significantly after a surge at the end of 2024. Consumption is falling, investment is weakening and unemployment stands at 6.9%, its highest level since 2017. Exports, boosted by the menace of customs duties, contracted sharply in April. The automotive and metals sectors, which were hit by tariff increases of up to 50%, have been particularly affected. The upcoming revision of the USMCA agreement, which is expected to be brought forward to the end of 2025, could further exacerbate the country’s economic instability. Read the full study here Hashtag: #Coface The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. COFACE: FOR TRADE As a global leading player in trade credit risk management for almost 80 years, Coface helps companies grow and navigate in an uncertain and volatile environment. Whatever their size, location or sector, Coface provides 100,000 clients across some 200 markets. with a full range of solutions: Trade Credit Insurance, Business Information, Debt Collection, Single Risk insurance, Surety Bonds, Factoring. Every day, Coface leverages its unique expertise and cutting-edge technology to make trade happen, in both domestic and export markets. In 2024, Coface employed +5,200 people and recorded a turnover of ~€1.845 billion.

Media OutReach

KN Group and AlloyX Form Strategic Partnership, Launching World’s First On-Chain Tokenized Consumer Loan Assets

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – In July 2025, Hong Kong fintech company KN Group announced a significant strategic partnership with AlloyX, a prominent Hong Kong-based Web3 financial technology company. Leveraging AlloyX’s on-chain tokenization infrastructure technology, the two parties will jointly launch the industry’s first tokenized fund with consumer loans as its underlying assets. This collaboration marks the first tokenization of individual cash loans on-chain, providing broader funding sources for the underlying assets and exploring new possibilities for traditional consumer finance businesses. As a promoter of inclusive finance with business spanning emerging markets including Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Mexico, KN Group will conduct a shelf offering of USD 100 million in tokenized consumer finance assets (RWA), with an initial issuance size of USD 20 million. AlloyX, a renowned Hong Kong Web3 fintech firm, specializes in bridging traditional finance with blockchain-based services, providing secure and efficient fiat and stablecoin payment solutions alongside asset tokenization services. This powerful alliance will significantly enhance asset liquidity, stability, and capital efficiency, opening new channels for global capital market asset allocation. Lucas Kong, General Manager of KN Group Hong Kong and Global Head of Treasury at KN Group, stated: “This global debut is a major milestone following KN Group’s decade of deep cultivation in AI fintech. It successfully bridges traditional financial services with the global capital markets through digital pathways. This initiative explores a replicable path for onboarding traditional consumer financial assets onto the blockchain, granting investors greater transparency, flexibility, and investment efficiency. Through financial asset tokenization, we aim to better serve global investors. Moving forward, we aspire to achieve further breakthroughs in setting new industry standards, unlocking fresh asset value, and connecting global emerging ecosystems, continuing our strides in innovative finance.” Under this strategic partnership, AlloyX provides KN Group with blockchain technology solutions and support. Jessie Chen, Head of RWA Issuance at AlloyX, commented: “We are delighted to partner with KN Group to jointly advance the global tokenization of cash loans, accelerating the integration and development of traditional financial systems with next-generation Web3 technology applications. This ensures high-quality financial assets circulate on-chain in a compliant and transparent manner. AlloyX will continue collaborating with industry partners to support institutions in their standardized, modularized, and globalized blockchain-based business expansion.” As a key enterprise introduced by the Hong Kong Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), KN Group will leverage this innovation as a starting point. It will continue to harness its strengths in AI-powered risk control technology, optimize asset management, expand into emerging markets, and lead the global digital development of inclusive finance. Hashtag: #FintechInnovation #Blockchain #RWATokenization #DeFi #Web3 #DigitalAssets #FinancialInclusion #KNGroup https://kn.grouphttps://www.linkedin.com/company/fortune-future-hong-kong-limitedhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573118537937Wechat: KN Group The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. KN Group Established in 2014, KN Group is a financial technology company with a core focus on artificial intelligence and big data. Its vision is to make financial services more accessible, convenient, and fair. Leveraging AI technology, KN Group has developed comprehensive assessment models to effectively evaluate customer credit risks, gain deeper insights into customer needs better through extensive infrastructure, provide more personalized services, and identify and manage risks more efficiently. KN Group is one of the strategic enterprises introduced under the Hong Kong Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES). Its business now spans multiple regions, including Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Mexico.

Media OutReach

Far East Hospitality Strengthens its Presence in Japan with Two New Hotels in Osaka

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Group enters Osaka with two Far East Village Hotels in Namba South and Honmachi districts, reinforcing its commitment to double its footprint to 2000 rooms in Japan. SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 July 2025 – Far East Hospitality has announced its continued expansion in Japan with the introduction of the Far East Village brand in Osaka. The openings of Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South, and Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi, represent a significant milestone in the Group’s growth strategy – to double its footprint to 2,000 rooms within the next five years across Japan’s key gateway cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka. From L – R, façade images of Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South and Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi “Far East Hospitality’s expansion into Osaka is a pivotal step towards our five-year goal of expanding to 2,000 rooms in Japan. We are focused on strengthening the Far East Village brand in the country’s key cities, particularly those with vibrant business and leisure appeal. We’re excited to embrace the richness of Japan’s culture and bring our ‘Live Like a Local’ philosophy to life, inviting travellers to engage meaningfully with what Japan has to offer. To fulfil this, we’re pleased to partner Anglo Capital Group as they expand into Osaka. With our combined expertise and commitment to authentic hospitality, we look forward to delivering memorable guest experiences and unlocking full potential of these properties,” said Mr. Mark Rohner, Chief Operating Officer of Far East Hospitality. “Our entry into the Osaka market through the acquisition of two centrally located hotels and our partnership with Far East Hospitality for their management marks an exciting milestone in the continued growth of our hotel portfolio. Osaka’s dynamic tourism landscape and strategic location make it an ideal addition to our expanding presence in Japan. We look forward to working with Far East Hospitality to deliver exceptional guest experiences and further strengthen our footprint in key locations across Japan,” said Benjamin Cho, Principal of Anglo Fortune Capital Group. Accelerating Growth in Japan Far East Hospitality made its entry into Japan in July 2020 with the opening of Far East Village Hotel Tokyo Ariake, followed by Far East Village Hotel Yokohama in June 2021. Despite global travel restrictions due to the pandemic, the Group maintained expansion momentum, opening its third property in 2023, Far East Village Hotel Tokyo Asakusa. With these two new Osaka hotels, Far East Hospitality is now operating five hotels in five years since its entry into Japan. These milestone openings reaffirm the Group’s commitment to delivering purpose-driven, culturally grounded hospitality while expanding its regional presence in a competitive and high-potential market. Confidence in a Rebounding Market Japan’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and recovery since the pandemic. In Tokyo alone, international visitor arrivals between January and October 2023 were approximately 12 times higher, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by over 34%[1]. The rebound continued into 2024, with Japan welcoming a record-breaking 36.9 million international visitors, a 47.1% increase from 2023.[2] This strong performance has fuelled Far East Hospitality’s optimism to scale in Japan, where rising inbound demand and evolving traveller preferences of personalised, authentic, and meaningful experiences when choosing travel destinations[3] align closely with the Group’s offerings. Live Like a Local in the Heart of Osaka Suitable for both leisure and business travellers, Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South is a 77-room hotel located in the vibrant Oku-Namba neighbourhood, just south of Osaka’s bustling Namba district. Within walking distance of key attractions like Namba Yasaka Shrine and Dotonbori, the hotel’s proximity to Daikokucho and Namba Stations also provides seamless access to the wider Kansai region. Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi has 165 rooms, and serves as an ideal gateway to Osaka’s blend of modernity and rich cultural heritage. Situated in the central business district of Chuo-ku, just steps from the iconic Osaka Castle, the hotel offers easy access to popular landmarks such as Osaka-jo Park and the historic Minami district. Delivering Purposeful Hospitality Far East Hospitality offers distinct experiences through personalised service that sets it apart in its category. By fostering a culture of genuine care, attention to detail, and using positive feedback to empower staff, guests are ensured that every stay is thoughtful and memorable. The Village brand’s signature ‘Live Like a Local’ philosophy encourages guests to immerse themselves into each destination’s cultural fabric, whether through everyday interactions with neighbourhood shops and eateries or specially curated activities. Guests can explore Osaka with its signature Village Passport, an exclusive and curated insider guide featuring local tips on attractions, dining and exciting experiences around the area. These locally rooted touchpoints create meaningful stays that reflect the character of each precinct. To learn more about Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South or Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi, please visit: https://www.fareasthospitality.com/en/hotels?country=Japan High resolution images are available here. [1] Japan National Tourism Organisation, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/japan-saw-record-279-mln-visitors-february-due-lunar-new-year-boost-2024-03-19/?utm_source=chatgpt.com [2] Nippon.com, https://www.nippon.com/en/japan-data/h02262/ [3] American Express, https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/travel/discover/get-inspired/global-travel-trends#:~:text=Consumer%20Travel%20Habits%20for%202025,the%20destination%20they%20are%20visiting. Hashtag: #FarEastHospitality The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Village Hotels & Residences The Village brand by Far East Hospitality reveals the unique charm and colourful personality of the locale in which each Village property is situated. Manifesting the ideals of ‘Eat, Play, and Explore like a local’, Village plays the role of a guide encouraging guests to embark on adventures through Singapore’s vibrant precincts to discover what truly means to ‘Live like a Local’. This provides guests with a refreshing and exciting experience no matter the location of the property they choose to visit. Whether guests are looking for authentic culinary delights or hunting for cultural gems, there’s something for everyone staying at Village. For more information, please visit: https://www.villagehotels.asia/ About Far East Hospitality Far East Hospitality Holdings Pte Ltd (Far East Hospitality) is an international hospitality owner and operator with a diverse portfolio of 10 unique and complementary brands of hotels, serviced residences and apartment hotels, including Oasia, Quincy, Rendezvous, Village, Far East Collection, A by Adina,

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