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ESG

MSIG Malaysia Expands Mangrove Conservation Partnership With MNS

MSIG Insurance (Malaysia) Bhd (“MSIG Malaysia”) has reinforced its commitment to coastal conservation through an ongoing partnership with the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), supporting a mangrove planting initiative at Kuala Selangor Nature Park (KNSP). The activity saw 20 Kelab Pencinta Alam (KPA) school eco clubs plant 1,200 mangrove saplings, sponsored by MSIG. MSIG Malaysia’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Toshibumi Suzuki (6th from left, third row), MSIG representatives, students and teachers from 20 from Klang Valley schools at the planting site.  This initiative is part of a broader, multi-year collaboration with MNS aimed at rehabilitating Malaysia’s mangrove ecosystems. Since 2019, MSIG and MNS have planted more than 10,587 saplings across Peninsular Malaysia. Additional plantings this year include 1,200 saplings across Selangor, Kedah, Perak, Melaka, Johor, and Kota Kinabalu, with another 400 scheduled before year-end. MSIG employees have actively participated as volunteers, contributing their time to the planting activities nationwide. MSIG Malaysia’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Ang Yien Chia (8th from left, first row), led the Senior Management Team members and MSIG staff volunteers in the mangrove planting activity, facilitated by Malaysian Nature Society (MNS). Leadership CommitmentMs. Ang Yien Chia, Chief Executive Officer of MSIG Malaysia, led the Senior Management Team and staff volunteers at the event. She said, “Since 2019, our partnership with MNS has helped restore critical mangrove ecosystems across Malaysia. Beyond planting trees, we aim to strengthen coastal communities and build long-term environmental resilience. Engaging young Malaysians in these efforts ensures that the next generation values and protects our natural heritage.” MSIG Malaysia’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Toshibumi Suzuki delivers the opening remark at the programme. Mr. Toshibumi Suzuki, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, added, “Mangroves act as natural insurance—stabilising coastlines, reducing storm surges, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change. Our work with MNS reflects the belief that environmental protection and community resilience go hand in hand.” MSIG Malaysia’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Toshibumi Suzuki handed the mangrove saplings to participating students at the planting site.  Nationwide Conservation ImpactThe MSIG-MNS programme has reached diverse locations nationwide, including: Sungai Cherating, Pahang Kuala Bagan Tiang, Perak Kampung Pulau Ketam, Perlis Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Selangor Delta Kelantan, Kelantan Sungai Merbok, Kedah Tanjung Tuan, Melaka Taman EcoCare, Terengganu Tanjung Piai, Johor Lukut, Negeri Sembilan Nibong Tebal, Penang Darau Wetlands, Sabah (new site added in 2025) These efforts restore degraded coastal habitats, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen natural buffers for communities vulnerable to flooding and erosion. MSIG Malaysia’s collaboration with MNS extends beyond volunteer activities, reflecting a long-term vision to create shared value by fostering environmental resilience and sustainable ecosystems. Future initiatives will continue to focus on ecological restoration and community support.

News

East Africa Risks €2.75B In Farm Exports As Only 15% Meet Traceability Rules

About €2.75 billion in agricultural export earnings is at risk for East Africa as global markets tighten rules on traceability and sustainability. Exporters are now required to show clear proof of where and how their products are produced, yet only 15% of agribusinesses in the region are aware of these new requirements, according to the 2024 Danish Industry Report. Most producers still lack digital traceability systems, putting access to high-value markets—particularly the European Union—at serious risk. Agriculture remains the backbone of East Africa’s economy, contributing 32% of GDP and employing more than 80% of the population. However, exports such as coffee, cocoa, tea, cereals, horticulture products, oil crops, rubber, and timber are facing increased scrutiny across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Burundi. The pressure has intensified with the enforcement of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). These rules require exporters to provide verifiable proof of legal origin, deforestation-free sourcing, and full supply-chain transparency. They apply broadly across agricultural exports, not just high-risk commodities. While these regulations aim to promote sustainability, they have exposed a major readiness gap. The Danish Industry Report shows that 65% of companies need clearer guidance, 57% require practical compliance frameworks, and 52% lack access to digital tools needed to comply. The impact is already visible—The Guardian reported in 2024 that some EU buyers have slowed or reduced purchases from East African suppliers due to compliance uncertainty, especially in supply chains dominated by smallholders. Despite the risks, many businesses still view digital traceability as costly. In reality, the greater cost lies in losing access to premium markets. Adoption remains slow due to low digital literacy, limited smartphone access, weak internet connectivity, fragmented systems, and data privacy concerns. Speaking at KOLTIVA’s Beyond Traceability Talks webinar, Susan Atyang, Regional Program Manager at the Agricultural Business Initiative (aBi), said traceability is essential for competitiveness, market access, and financial inclusion. She noted that aBi supports organisations only after assessing readiness factors such as audited accounts, return on investment, farmer reach, and compliance systems—highlighting that traceability is now a business necessity, not an optional add-on. Misconceptions also remain about smallholder farmers’ ability to adopt digital tools. Waithera Muriithi, Strategy & Innovation Lead at Café Africa Uganda, challenged this view, saying the real issue is awareness, not capability. When farmers understand the benefits, adoption improves. Café Africa is supporting national efforts such as EUDR task forces and the creation of data warehouses to streamline compliance. Still, major challenges persist. Over 75% of agriculture in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda depends on smallholders, many of whom lack formal land documentation required for geolocation verification. Fragmented supply chains with multiple intermediaries make consistent data collection difficult. Internet penetration stands at just 28.5%, far below the global average of 67.9%, and 80% of smallholders live below the poverty line, making it unrealistic to place the full cost of compliance on farmers. According to Fanny Butler, Senior Head of Markets EMEA at Koltiva, sustainability is impossible without traceability—and demand will only increase. She stressed that shared-cost models are essential, where buyers subsidise onboarding, suppliers ensure data quality, and development partners co-finance mapping. Early adopters, she added, will gain a clear competitive advantage. Adding a global perspective, Manfred Borer, CEO and Co-Founder of Koltiva, said East Africa has strong resources and global demand but needs coordinated readiness. Traceability, he noted, is no longer optional—it is the price of entry into the world’s most valuable markets. Experts agree that progress depends on three key actions: increasing regulatory awareness across supply chains, verifying source-level data such as geolocation and deforestation risk, and deploying digital tools suited to rural conditions. East Africa is expected to contribute 19% of additional global agricultural production over the next decade, according to OECD–FAO projections. However, unlocking this potential depends on how quickly exporters, processors, cooperatives, and governments close the compliance gap. As sustainability rules tighten, the region faces a clear choice: strengthen competitiveness through traceability—or risk shrinking access to global markets.

News

Carlo Rino Eyes Global Expansion, Seeks New Investors

Carlo Rino Group Berhad, a leading Malaysian designer fashion brand, will take part in Malaysia Brand Day 2026, a government-endorsed exhibition supported by the Prime Minister’s Office and relevant agencies. The event will feature more than 300 exhibitors from 16 industries. Through its participation, Carlo Rino is showcasing its strong growth ambitions and positioning itself as an attractive opportunity for both local and international investors. Founded in 1986, Carlo Rino has built a strong brand identity centred on young, fun, bold and colourful fashion. Today, the brand appeals to young urban women and middle-income professionals, with a presence across Malaysia and more than 62 countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, China and the Middle East. The brand’s success is driven by its focus on quality, innovation and functionality, while staying aligned with the latest fashion trends. Its versatile product range balances femininity and practicality, offering styles that transition seamlessly from day to night to suit modern lifestyles. Building for future growth, Carlo Rino is supported by several key strengths: Omni-channel presence: The Group operates through a mix of branded boutiques, department store counters and a growing e-commerce platform. Strong e-commerce expansion: Online sales continue to grow, supported by Carlo Rino’s own platform and partnerships with Lazada, Shopee and TikTok, enabling cost-efficient international reach. Retail optimisation: The Group plans to refurbish existing outlets and open new boutiques to enhance customer experience and improve margins. Its recent transfer to the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia further strengthens its corporate governance and access to capital. Middle-class focus: Carlo Rino is well-positioned to capture demand from the expanding middle-class market in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Managing Director Dato’ Sri Chiang Fong Yee said the brand has continued to grow despite market challenges by staying true to its identity and focusing on quality and relevance. He added that with a clear omni-channel strategy and targeted expansion plans, Carlo Rino is well-placed to strengthen its position as a regional fashion brand and welcomes partners to join its next phase of growth. Investors and media are encouraged to review Carlo Rino’s recent corporate developments and financial performance, which highlight the Group’s operational strength and long-term growth potential in the fashion retail sector.

ESG

CelcomDigi And Partners Provide Relief And Connectivity Aid To Affected Families

Following the company’s flood preparedness announcement in October, CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi) has activated its nationwide flood relief efforts to ensure those affected remain safe, connected and supported. In collaboration with the Malaysian Relief Agency (MRA) and Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC), the company has commenced the delivery of essential aid and connectivity solutions to several temporary relief centres (Pusat Pemindahan Sementara – PPS) nationwide to benefit more than 50,000 affected people. Teams have deployed 60 charging stations and 80 WiFi units across relief centres in eight states to keep families connected with loved ones and access essential communication services. The company’s 24/7 operations teams are also on standby to swiftly deploy power generators to base stations in flood-hit areas, ensuring minimal disruption to network services. Beyond connectivity, CelcomDigi has enabled MRA with four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles, rescue boats and volunteers to help residents stranded in severely flooded areas. In parallel, the company has activated its Flash-SMS broadcast, enhanced with AI-powered postcode targeting to ensure timely alerts reach customers in flood-risk areas. To date over 5.1 million flash-smses have been broadcasted to alert families. Essential household and personal supplies are being distributed to support families during their stay at relief centres. Alongside company-led aid, employees have also contributed cooking essentials and food packs as a gesture of their personal support. Other relief packages also include general relief kits, female dignity kits, ready-to-eat meals, baby care packs, and bedding sets—items selected to provide comfort and meet immediate needs. CelcomDigi is working with the government and relevant agencies for more coordinated relief efforts. The company has also readied its resources and employees to support more Malaysians nationwide – whether customers, dealers, or partners – during this time of need. In tandem with these efforts, a refreshed Flood Preparedness Kit that includes updated safety guidelines and practical checklist is made available in English and Bahasa Malaysia via CelcomDigi’s social media platforms and on CelcomDigi app.

ESG

DXN Holdings Bhd Wins Regional Social Impact Award At ESG Plus 2025

DXN Holdings Bhd a leading global nutraceutical manufacturer, has been recognised as the winner of the Social Category Award at The Exchange Asia ESG PLUS Awards 2025. This recognition reflects DXN’s long-standing commitment to empowering communities, advancing social inclusion and supporting long-term societal well-being across the markets in which it operates. The Exchange Asia ESG PLUS Awards celebrate organisations that demonstrate measurable progress and leadership in the areas of Environment, Social and Governance (“ESG”). The recognition reflects DXN’s sustained commitment to fostering a compassionate and inclusive global society grounded in wellness, education, dignity and empowerment. Representatives, from left to right: Mr. Mahmood Hisham, Chief Operating Officer of DXN, YB Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Binti Ahmad, Deputy Minister of Women, Family & Community Development, Puan Sri Datin Seri Dato’ Akmal Abdul Salam, Chairwoman of the ESG PLUS Awards 2025. DXN’s social impact initiatives span a wide spectrum, including poverty alleviation, education support, healthcare access, nutrition programmes and global mindfulness development. Central to these efforts is the belief that businesses have a responsibility to uplift society while creating sustainable value. In the financial year ended 28 February 2023 (“FY2023”), DXN channelled more than RM5.3 million into community programmes, followed by RM11.9 million in the following year, enabling meaningful outreach through partnerships with Yayasan Prihatin, public institutions such as Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (“UTAR”), and regional community networks. DXN promotes children’s health through its One Dollar One Child (“ODOC”) campaign, supporting undernourished children with health check-ups, nutrition guidance, and medical care, across Malaysia, India, and other countries by June 2025. In Malaysia, the Company partners with government-linked and charitable organisations to deliver impact through initiatives like Malaysia Madani, MYGrocer mobile markets, school programs, and a RM3.5 million donation to UTAR for an Ayurvedic clinic that advances holistic healthcare. On receiving the Social Category Award, Executive Chairman and Founder, Datuk Lim Siow Jin (拿督林孝仁) said, “At DXN, our philosophy has always been to inspire health, dignity and opportunity for every individual who comes into contact with our work. This award is a meaningful recognition of the many communities, volunteers, partners and DXN members who have walked this journey with us. We believe true social impact is created when compassion is translated into action, and when people are empowered to improve their own lives. This Award motivates us to expand our efforts further, so that our work continues to bring tangible change to families and communities around the world.” DXN’s strong showing in the Social Category also reflects its deep commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of its global workforce. As part of its ongoing human rights journey, the Company has introduced enhanced worker engagement and protection mechanisms designed to ensure transparency, dignity and respect for all workers across its operations. This initiative underscores DXN’s belief that listening to workers is essential to building ethical, resilient and future-ready supply chains. It also aligns with international labour standards and complements DXN’s broader ESG commitments. DXN’s performance in the Social Category reflects its structured ESG strategy and its commitment to creating long-term positive impact for communities worldwide. The Company will continue strengthening its social initiatives, expanding global partnerships and driving responsible value creation across all markets in which it operates.

Property

AWC Bags RM42.3 Million Data Centre Project From Gamuda In Selangor

AWC Berhad’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Qudotech Sdn. Bhd., has secured a subcontract from Gamuda Engineering Sdn. Bhd. for the cold water, rainwater harvesting, and sanitary system works at the hyperscale data centre in Eco Business Park V, Puncak Alam, Selangor. The project is scheduled to start on 8 December 2025 and is expected to be completed by 28 February 2027 for Facility 1 and 1 September 2027 for Facility 2. Dato’ Ahmad Kabeer bin Mohamed Nagoor, Group CEO/President of AWC Berhad, said, “We are grateful for Gamuda’s continued confidence. Following our successful completion of the first data centre project, being awarded a second contract—more than double the size—is a strong endorsement of our Engineering Division’s capabilities. We are confident in delivering the project on schedule.” He added, “Malaysia’s data centre industry is still growing, and we see significant opportunities ahead. This win, along with contracts secured across our Facilities, Environment, Engineering, and Rail divisions for FY26, highlights a promising outlook. Our total contract wins for FY26 have reached approximately RM424 million, providing earnings visibility for the coming years.” As of September 2025, AWC’s order book stood at RM528 million, excluding seven contracts secured after 30 September 2025 worth RM412.3 million.

ESG

Gambit Group Starts Impact Partners Program, Partners With Hiichiikok Foundation

Gambit Group, a technology-driven consortium of wealth management companies, today reinforced its commitment to meaningful community engagement by launching its Impact Partner Program and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hiichiikok Foundation. From left: Datuk Clifford Hii, Group CEO (Gambit Group) and Frieda Ngui, Home Manager (Hiichiikok Foundation).  The Impact Partner Program, led by Digital Trustees Berhad, a member of Gambit Group, is designed to enable structured and sustainable giving. Through the program, Gambit clients can voluntarily support selected Impact Partners via one-off contributions or structured giving through their trust distributions. At the launch event, Gambit Group contributed RM15,000, with RM5,000 each donated to three Impact Partners: the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), Hiichiikok Foundation, and WWF-Malaysia. The MoU signing took place during “Movie Day with a Heart”, a private charity screening that brought together children, caregivers, partner organisations, and clients to celebrate community partnerships and foster meaningful engagement beyond traditional CSR activities. Datuk Clifford Hii, Group CEO of Gambit Group, said:“Through the Impact Partner Program, we aim to go beyond one-off donations and build long-term relationships with organisations creating real community impact. This program simplifies sustainable giving for our clients while supporting causes they care about. Today, we’re proud to formalise our collaboration with these organisations and look forward to partnering with more Impact Partners in the future.” From left: Lynn Lim, Group Finance Director (Gambit Group); Frieda Ngui, Home Manager (Hiichiikok Foundation); Yap Yoke Tuan, Home Assistant (Hiichiikok Foundation); Tan May Ching, Assistant Supervisor (Hiichiikok Foundation); Nalani AP Balan, Home Mother (Hiichiikok Foundation); Datuk Clifford Hii, Group CEO (Gambit Group); Alya Syahida Allias, Head of Philanthropy Partnership (WWF-Malaysia); Julian Wong, Chairman (NASOM); Cheah Zi Kah, Chief Growth Officer (Gambit Group); Lau Chung Han, Head of Product (Gambit Group).  The MoU with Hiichiikok Foundation establishes a long-term collaboration focused on supporting underprivileged children through ongoing initiatives. Frieda Ngui, Home Manager of Hiichiikok Foundation, commented:“This partnership gives us stability and confidence to expand educational support and care programs. It represents a shared commitment to giving children a brighter future and shows that corporate partners like Gambit Group believe in our mission.” Since September 2025, NASOM has also been supported under the Impact Partner framework, enabling the organisation to strengthen programmes that empower children and adults with autism. Julian Wong, NASOM Chairman, said:“Gambit Group’s generous contribution will directly enhance our services nationwide, including upgrading teaching materials, facilities, and intervention programmes, helping individuals with autism reach their full potential.” WWF-Malaysia, recognised for its environmental conservation efforts, also received support to advance work in forests, wildlife, freshwater, food, marine, and climate protection. Alya Syahida Allias, Head of Philanthropy Partnership at WWF-Malaysia, said:“This partnership demonstrates that meaningful change for people and nature is possible when we act with heart.” By combining direct donations with structured partnerships, the Impact Partner Program reflects Gambit Group’s belief that sustainable impact is built through continuity, trust, and shared purpose. The program also allows clients to integrate social impact into their wealth and legacy planning in a transparent and flexible way.

Investment & Market Trends

Semico Capital Plans RM23.2 Million ACE Market IPO For Expansion

Semico Capital Berhad (“Semico Capital”), a provider of family entertainment products and services, as well as a wholesaler and distributor of toys and collectibles, has officially launched its prospectus today in conjunction with its initial public offering (“IPO”) on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (“Bursa Securities”). Photo caption (L–R): Ms. Ang Sew Fong, Executive Director & HR Head, Semico Capital, Mr. Tai Lee Chuen, Executive Director & CEO, Semico Capital, Dato’ Sri Ramli Bin Mohamed Yoosuf, Independent Chairman, Semico Capital, En. Hasli Bin Hashim, Chairman, Affin Hwang, En. Hanif Bin Ghulam Mohammed, CEO, Affin Hwang and En. Johan Hashim, MD, Capital Markets, Affin Hwang. Through its subsidiaries, the Group operates a family entertainment business that includes arcade and amusement machines, a family entertainment centre at The Mines shopping centre in Selangor, and nationwide distribution of toys and collectibles. Semico Capital is the exclusive authorised distributor for Superwing and Dreamfuns, and holds distributorships for ACE Amusement, UNIS, Jakar, and DOF Robotics. Its products and services are available at 77 customer stores nationwide. In the toys and collectibles segment, the Group distributes 68 brands, including Pop Mart, Funism, Jotoys, and ToyCity, across 303 retail outlets in Malaysia. These include specialised convenience stores, hobbyist stores, toy stores, cinemas, and family entertainment centres. Mr. Tai Lee Chuen, Executive Director and CEO of Semico Capital, said, “The prospectus launch is a significant milestone for us. From a small trading business, we have grown into a key supplier of family entertainment solutions and a distributor of over 60 toys and collectibles brands. This IPO will help us accelerate growth, expand nationwide, and continue creating moments of joy for families and communities.” According to an Independent Market Report by Protégé Associates Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s family entertainment and edutainment centre market is projected to reach RM1.9 billion by 2029, growing at a five-year CAGR of 10.2%. The pop toys market is expected to reach RM512.5 million by 2029, with a five-year CAGR of 28.9%. Use of IPO Proceeds The IPO is expected to raise RM23.2 million, which will be used to: Purchase new arcade and amusement machines and replace older units (RM10.6 million, 45.6%) Acquire new toys and collectibles (RM2.5 million, 10.8%) Repay bank borrowings (RM1.6 million, 6.9%) Fund working capital (RM4.0 million, 17.3%) Cover listing expenses (RM4.5 million, 19.4%) The IPO comprises 92.7 million new ordinary shares (“Issue Shares”), representing 25.7% of the enlarged issued share capital, and an offer for sale of 18.0 million existing shares (“Offer Shares”), representing 5.0% of the enlarged share capital. Of the Issue Shares, 18.0 million will be offered to the Malaysian public, 15.0 million to eligible directors, employees, and business associates, and 59.7 million through private placement to selected investors. Upon listing, Semico Capital is expected to have a market capitalisation of RM90.0 million, based on an IPO price of RM0.25 per share and an enlarged issued share capital of 360.0 million shares. Financially, the Group’s revenue grew from RM5.3 million in FYE 2022 to RM29.7 million in FYE 2025, representing a three-year CAGR of 78.1%. Profit after tax increased from RM1.2 million to RM6.0 million over the same period, a three-year CAGR of 72.5%. The growth was driven by expanded locations, new customers, and steady sales across both business segments. Applications for the public issue open today and will close on 2 January 2026 at 5:00 pm. The Group is scheduled to be listed on the ACE Market on 13 January 2026. Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad is the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Sole Placement Agent, and Sole Underwriter for the IPO.

Energy & Technology

UMMC, CelcomDigi Team Up For 5G AI HoloMedicine® Multi-Country Live Surgeries

Malaysia marked a major milestone in digital healthcare as Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) and CelcomDigi Berhad (“CelcomDigi”) collaborated on one of the world’s first real-time, multi-country live ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeries powered by 5G, artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) technologies last Thursday. The live surgery, led by Professor Dr. Mohd Zulkiflee bin Abu Bakar, Director of UMMC, Otorhinolaryngologist and Head & Neck Oncosurgeon, and Dr. Julius Goh Liang Chye, Senior Lecturer and Clinical Specialist ENT, was streamed in real-time to medical students and international specialists from leading institutions in the United States (Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic and Vanderbilt University Medical Centre), as well as from across Asia, including South Korea, Bhutan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, and several states in Malaysia such as Putrajaya, Kedah, Johor and Sarawak. All participants were connected to the operating theatre in UMMC through an immersive AI-powered HoloMedicine® Robotics XR platform by apoQlar. Powered by CelcomDigi’s ultra-low latency 5G network services, the live transmission delivered smooth, synchronous, high-definition visuals that enabled participants to observe critical surgical steps with exceptional precision and clarity, while engaging in real-time remote proctoring and two-way live clinical feedback. The surgical procedure showcased how next-generation connectivity can transform surgical training, remote clinical collaboration, and cross-border medical knowledge exchange. CelcomDigi’s Chief Innovation Officer, T. Kugan, said,“This landmark surgery is testament to how Malaysia can lead the region in digital healthcare innovation. Innovation and 5G connectivity are enabling critical real-time applications that can transform lives. By combining ultra-low latency 5G network with AI and XR-powered HoloMedicine®, we are enabling surgeons, educators and students across multiple countries to collaborate as if they were in the same operating theatre. As Malaysia’s leader in 5G services, we are honoured to support UMMC in realising the nation’s ambition to be a regional centre of medical excellence.” The breakthrough demonstration highlighted the potential of 5G-enabled XR to fundamentally reshape surgical education and specialist collaboration, removing geographical barriers that have traditionally limited access to advanced medical training. UMMC’s Director, Professor Dr. Mohd Zulkiflee, said,“This live surgery marks a major step forward in how we train future surgeons and share specialist expertise. Through real-time, immersive XR technology, our clinicians and students were able to participate in surgical procedures beyond physical boundaries. Our partnership with CelcomDigi allows us to create new possibilities for cross-border collaboration, expanding access to specialist training, improving clinical capability and ultimately enhancing patient care.” The initiative strengthens Malaysia’s growing leadership in medical innovation and underscores the immense potential of 5G-enabled HoloMedicine® in driving next-generation healthcare education, supporting national ambitions to expand healthcare tourism and digital health capabilities. Building on this success, UMMC has planned a series of additional live surgical demonstrations over the coming days, including: Urology surgeries, showcasing remote surgical observation and interactive learning enabled by 5G and AI HoloMedicine® Colorectal surgeries, demonstrating the versatility of the XR platform across multiple specialties in high-stakes clinical environments Additional ENT cases, expanding regional access to advanced surgical techniques and specialist mentorship This initiative also provides an important proof point for how emerging technologies can be safely and effectively integrated into real clinical environments. The success of the procedure shows that advanced digital tools can complement surgical workflows, enhance teaching clarity, and support clinicians without disrupting patient care. CelcomDigi continues to drive the digitalisation of healthcare, empowering institutions to push the boundaries of medical innovation and positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for medical excellence.

ESG

dobiQueen Narrows Gender Employment Gap With Its Single Parent Welfare Support

As Malaysia works toward increasing the female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) to 60% by 2033, the latest data reveals a notable gap: women’s LFPR stands at 56.4%, compared to 83.3% for men. Many single mothers face the dual responsibilities of paid employment and unpaid caregiving — a challenge often referred to as the ‘double shift’ or ‘double burden’. A 2019 survey by the Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) shows that Malaysian women spend significantly more time than men on unpaid care work, while devoting a similar number of hours to paid work. These tasks, including cooking, cleaning, and child care, are mentally demanding and time-sensitive. Inclusive Employment Initiatives by dobiQueen As part of its inclusive employment policy, dobiQueen actively hires single parents and members of the B40 community, providing meaningful opportunities, job stability, and long-term support. Most recently, the company introduced its “Single Parent Welfare Support” programme, rewarding high-performing single-parent employees with monthly incentives of up to RM500. This initiative strengthens the workforce while advancing dobiQueen’s mission to empower women and foster a supportive society. Nini Tan, Co-founder and Executive Director of dobiQueen “Empowering women and strengthening families to reclaim their time to focus on what matters most has always been core to dobiQueen’s mission,” said Nini Tan, Co-founder and Executive Director of dobiQueen.“Our Single Parent Welfare Support programme reflects our commitment to helping them build stability, confidence, and long-term success. When single parents are empowered, this strengthens families, and communities flourish from there.” Personalised Raya bags were also gifted to children in collaboration with the Dignity for Children Foundation. Dedicated to supporting underserved communities, dobiQueen regularly collaborates with NGOs such as Dignity for Children Foundation, Kintry, PichaEats, Komuniti Tukang Jahit (KTJ), and The Asli Co. These partnerships have supported single mothers, refugee mothers, and women from the B40 income group, helping them generate income and enhance skills. Malaysians Turn to Launderettes to Save Time and Energy In line with Malaysia’s social and economic inclusion goals, dobiQueen is also redefining everyday convenience. A recent customer survey reveals that families, working individuals, and students increasingly use professional launderette services to reclaim valuable time. By outsourcing laundry, customers save 150 to 300 hours a year — equivalent to 25 hours per month or 6 hours per week. This time savings allows them to reduce stress and enjoy greater flexibility in daily life. Customer data from over 15 million washes shows that: 41% of users spend extra time bonding with their children 32% use the time for dining out and social activities 19% reinvest the time into managing or growing their businesses 8% dedicate time to self-care Globally, self-service laundry services are growing rapidly, with the Asia Pacific region leading, driven by urbanisation, a growing middle-class population, and widespread smartphone adoption. With over a decade in the laundry industry, dobiQueen has gained insights into customer habits via its proprietary mobile app. The app helps users locate the nearest outlet and start washing or drying instantly via QR code scanning, removing the need for in-outlet kiosks, buttons, or tokens. “With over 90 outlets across the Klang Valley, we’ve witnessed firsthand how our laundrette services can make a meaningful impact, giving Malaysians more time and energy back in their daily lives,” said Nini Tan. Expansion Plans and Global Benchmarking dobiQueen plans to open 20 outlets per year, expanding to Sabah and Sarawak, with 10 outlets in Kota Kinabalu and 10 in Kuching. “At dobiQueen, we actively benchmark against global leaders in the laundry industry, particularly Japan and Korea, known for advanced technologies,” said Nini Tan.“While Korea leads in automation and convenience, we adapt innovations to suit Malaysian consumer behavior, prioritising trust and security. Japan remains technologically advanced but often relies on physical tokens and domestic e-payment systems. Malaysia has leapfrogged these limitations with inclusive payment options for both local and international users.” The laundry service market is valued at US$45.85 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach US$273.0 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 29.3% from 2025 to 2032.

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