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KUALA LUMPUR: Muar Ban Lee Group Bhd (MBL) is poised to navigate the challenges the looming El Niño poses with strategic business diversification plans. The company is adopting technological advancements in palm kernel oil processing and ventures into the biogas sector, showcasing its resilience and potential as a critical player in the evolving market. The expected rise in palm oil prices allows MBL to increase revenue from its core operations. The company’s involvement in biogas aligns with the global trend towards renewable energy and offers an alternative application for palm oil, potentially reducing production risks associated with El Niño. “MBL’s investment in modern technology is a game-changer, enhancing our efficiency and yield in palm kernel oil processing. “This strategic move positions us to maximise our resources and maintain a competitive edge, especially in times of reduced production,” MBL’s top management representative said in a statement. Further, the spokesperson said the anticipated global upswing in palm oil demand, driven by biogas, positions MBL favourably. As biogas gains prominence in the energy sector, MBL’s involvement could lead to new revenue streams and market opportunities. MBL’s venture into biogas marks a strategic move, aligning with the global shift towards renewable energy. By converting palm oil production waste into energy, MBL addresses environmental concerns and taps into a burgeoning market. This diversification also provides a buffer against the volatility of palm oil prices and production levels. Furthermore, MBL’s strategic divestiture of a 51.0 per cent stake in Indonesia-based PT Serdang Jaya Perdana for RM11.0 million has streamlined its financial portfolio, boosting cash flow and overall financial stability. By shedding a low-yield asset, this divestment refocuses the company’s efforts on more lucrative ventures. Post-divestment, MBL’s revenue normalised to RM74.58 million in the third quarter (Q3) FY23, with its core manufacturing business contributing RM51.97 million. Meanwhile, profit after tax jumped 62.5 per cent quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) to RM4.98 million, driven by heightened demand in its manufacturing division. Regarding the business outlook, a substantial order book and a favourable business climate could boost earnings in the near term. MBL’s success is underpinned by its diverse product and service offerings in the palm oil industry, notably its commitment to sustainability. Initiatives like the empty fruit bunch (EFB) biogas plants and palm oil mill effluent (POME) water treatment systems exemplify MBL’s dedication to environmental stewardship, turning waste products into energy and managing wastewater efficiently. The shift towards renewable energy is crucial to MBL’s robust earnings growth prospects. This transition aligns with global environmental goals and presents lucrative opportunities for the company. “A deliberate and strategic shift in our asset portfolio has not only strengthened our financial footing but also allowed us to channel our resources towards more profitable and sustainable ventures,” a senior executive at MBL said. Aside from the growth potential, MBL’s diversified revenue streams enhance its earnings resilience and stability. MBL’s automotive division, for instance, contributed approximately RM28.18 million in revenue during Q3. Additionally, MBL’s plantation segment, though in its early stages with an immature durian plantation yet to yield revenue, represents a promising avenue for long-term growth. From an investment perspective, MBL presents an attractive valuation. The company’s net asset per share, at 95 sen, is significantly higher than its current share price of around 45 sen. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, MBL had a strong track record of dividend payouts, suggesting potential future dividends as business normalises. However, challenges loom on the horizon, particularly concerning the impact of El Niño. This climatic phenomenon risks palm oil production, potentially affecting supply and prices. MBL must navigate these uncertainties, which could affect production volumes and revenue. The company’s response to these challenges will be crucial in maintaining its growth trajectory and fulfilling its commitments to shareholders and clients. “We are acutely aware of the challenges ahead. Our strategy is to stay nimble, adapt quickly, and leverage our technological and market strengths to weather these uncertainties,” the senior executive said. While MBL is positioned for success with its diversified business model, technological advancements, and commitment to sustainability, it must remain vigilant and adaptive to overcome the challenges posed by El Niño and other market fluctuations. This proactive approach will be vital in sustaining its growth and upholding its reputation in the industry.

KUALA LUMPUR: In a significant nod to its burgeoning status as a global hub for sustainable urban development, Kuala Lumpur has been chosen to host the prestigious UIA2024 International Forum (UIA2024) from 15 to 19 November 2024 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. This landmark event, expected to draw more than 3,000 delegates, underscores the city’s commitment to fostering diverse, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments. Organised jointly by the Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) and Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), the UIA2024 is set to be a transformative gathering. It will bring together architects, urban planners, policymakers, and enthusiasts from around the globe to engage in  critical discussions under the theme of DiverseCity for Humanity and Sustainable Growth. This theme reflects modern cities’ complex challenges, emphasising the need for strategies that prioritise human well-being alongside environmental stewardship. The forum is anticipated to generate a significant economic impact, with an estimated RM43.4 million in benefits and up to RM18.5 million in visitor expenditures, bolstering the Malaysian economy. DBKL project implementation and building maintenance department director Hanum Ain  Zainal said Kuala Lumpur is steadfast in its journey to emerge as a global frontrunner in crafting resilient, inclusive, and habitable urban landscapes. “The UIA2024 International Forum Kuala Lumpur offers a golden opportunity for us to exchange insights, absorb global best practices, and cultivate partnerships that will propel us towards achieving our collective aspirations,” she said in a statement. PAM president Ar Abu Zarim Abu Bakar said hosting the UIA2024 in Malaysia is significant for sharing cultural diversity experiences and a powerful way to promote dialogue, understanding, and appreciation for the diverse cultural contexts in which architecture operates. “It has the potential to inspire positive change, foster collaboration, and contribute to advancing architecture as a socially responsible and culturally responsive profession,” he said. The theme DiverCity, reflects Malaysia’s unique cultural diversity and commitment to environmental stewardship. It highlights the importance of inclusive and sustainable urban development practices that prioritise the well-being of communities and the environment. The forum also aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals related to reducing inequalities, gender equality, peace and justice and strong institutions. Architects and urban planners play a crucial role in advancing these global agendas through innovative design and planning solutions that address global issues such as social inequality and cultural preservation. The successful bid by the Malaysian delegation, presented in a hybrid format at the UIA 148th Council Meeting and extraordinary general assembly in Madrid, Spain, included prominent figures from the architectural and urban planning sectors. The team responsible for this achievement includes UIA2024 convener Datuk Ar Ezumi Harzani Ismail, PAM past president Ar Sarly Adre Sarkum, past deputy president Ar Alice Leong, Nusantara Academy of Development director Ar Ahmad Najib Ariffin, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) chief operating officer Noor Ahmad Hamid, along with 16 other delegation members, including PAM and UIA former president Tan Sri Ar Esa Mohamed. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), MyCEB, ARCHIDEX, and other partners, UIA2024 is set to be a transformative event that highlights Kuala Lumpur’s advancements and shapes the future of sustainable urban development globally.

KUALA LUMPUR: Powerwell Holdings Bhd (PHB) posted a profit before tax (PBT) of  RM12.03 million for the third quarter (Q3) ended December 31, 2023 (FY24), a seven-fold jump from RM1.61 million posted in the same quarter last year. This leap in profitability was mainly due to the higher gross profit margin realised from key projects, particularly in the data centres, solar power plant project and semiconductor plant project, underlining the strong performance and growth trajectory in these sectors. The gross margin for PHB improved to 26.6 per cent in Q3 FY24 compared to 12.8 per cent in the same quarter a year ago. Accompanying this substantial increase in profitability, PHB also recorded a notable 49.9 per cent increase in revenue for Q3 FY24, reaching RM67.48 million, compared to RM45.03 million in Q3 FY23. The revenue growth was primarily driven by higher sales from Bangladesh due to project sales from the successful deliveries of the solar power plant and garment and yarn projects. Aside from that, the company also achieved a milestone entry into the Australian market in Q3. Meanwhile, Malaysia saw a reduction in project sales in Q3 FY24 as the semiconductor plant is nearing its completion. This decline was offset by the uptick in sales in high-value projects such as commercial properties and data centre projects. PHB executive director Catherine Wong Yoke Yen said Q3 performance reflects the strength and resilience of the company’s strategic initiatives and the team’s hard work. “We are particularly proud of our expansion into new markets and the successful delivery of high-value projects, which have significantly contributed to our growth,” she said in a statement. On PHB’s overseas expansion, Wong said the successful delivery of low-voltage switchboards to a factory in Australia reflects the company’s ability to deliver projects internationally. PHB also saw strong growth in Bangladesh, supported by successful deliveries of projects, including those in the solar power plant and garment and yarn projects. The year-to-date performance echoed this positive trend, with revenue of RM132.90 million, up from RM101.42 million. Meanwhile, PBT jumped more than three times to RM17.73 million during the first nine months of FY24, from RM4.98 million in the same quarter last year. “Looking forward, we are focused on sustaining our growth momentum while continuing to explore new opportunities for expansion and enhancing shareholder value. “PHB will leverage its market strengths, diversify its offerings and capitalise on opportunities in infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. “We believe our strong fundamentals, as seen by our improving balance sheet and resilient earnings growth, track record, commitment to timely project delivery and adaptability, position us well for future success despite the current uncertain global economic climate,” Wong said. The company’s declaration of its second single-tier dividend of 1.4 sen per ordinary share for the financial year ending March 31, 2024, supports the positive outlook, reflecting confidence in its financial health and future prospects. This brings the total dividend for the first nine months of FY24 to 2 sen per ordinary share.

KUALA LUMPUR: The 30% Club Malaysia has appointed Nurul A’in Abdul Latif as its new Chair. Nurul A’in is currently the executive chair and an assurance partner at PwC Malaysia. In this role, Nurul A’in will lead the drive to advance women leaders on corporate boards and management teams in Malaysia. 30% Club Malaysia founding chair Tan Sri Zarinah Anwar welcomed Nurul A’in as the new chair and expressed confidence that she will continue to drive the club’s mission with vigour and determination, refining strategies for achieving gender balance in boardrooms while fostering a culture of inclusivity. “This partnership with PwC Malaysia as our new corporate sponsor underscores the vital role that local corporations play in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. “Our journey towards achieving true parity is a long one. Our campaign favours aspirational stretch targets, viewing sustainable change as a collective endeavour that demands holistic solutions at every stage of the talent lifecycle,” Zarina said in a statement. Based on data provided by the Securities Commission Malaysia, as of January 1, 2024, women hold 30.9 per cent of board seats in the top 100 public-listed companies (PLCs) and 25.6 per cent of seats in all PLCs on Bursa Malaysia. “Since our inception in 2015, we have embarked on a dedicated journey towards DEI to enhance female representation on boards and management of Malaysian PLCs. “The achievement of the 30 per cent minimum threshold for the top 100 PLCs in June 2023 is a significant milestone, providing greater impetus to our drive for parity in the boardroom. “The 30 per cent is not a ceiling. It is the minimum, a tipping point towards achieving true parity in boardrooms and C-suites, recognising talented and competent women by ensuring an equal playing field,” said Zarina. Nurul A’in said promoting inclusion and diversity has always been an important part of PwC’s values and strategy. “I am honoured to take on this role at 30% Club Malaysia and work alongside the many volunteer advocates to garner support from business leaders in Malaysia, in the mission to continue improving inclusivity on company boards and senior management levels. “With the global allocation of capital towards quality, diverse and inclusive companies, Malaysia needs to be well-positioned to promote the investability of our leading listed companies. “The case for inclusion and diversity on boards and senior management goes beyond financial returns. Today’s companies are faced with the pressure to transform, driven by technological disruption, environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations and rapidly changing consumer preferences. “Diversity, especially at decision-making levels, makes room for the range of perspectives, experience and knowledge needed to differentiate themselves for long-term business sustainability,” she said. Central to addressing the challenges that women directors face in gaining visibility in the board circles is the 30% Club Malaysia’s Board Mentoring Scheme (BMS). Established in collaboration with PwC Malaysia in 2017, the BMS has provided invaluable guidance to 106 senior women leaders across eight cohorts. 41 per cent of mentees have secured board roles in PLCs, SMEs, and industry associations to date. “While we have achieved 30% of women in the top 100 PLCs, we need to close this gap for PLCs in Malaysia overall. “However, it’s incredibly important women who take on positions on boards are willing and able to contribute positively to organisations’ growth. “I look forward to driving greater engagement with business leaders to be advocates for gender parity in their own networks, mobilise greater collective action across public and private institutions to build a more inclusive business environment, and expand our quality, board-ready women pipeline for our PLCs,” Nurul A’in said. The 30% Club Malaysia is committed to driving top-down collective action, galvanising stakeholders across sectors with corporate advocates and partners’ support to accelerate progress towards a more inclusive future.

KUALA LUMPUR: Visa, a world leader in payments, today announced the opening of its transformed Singapore Innovation Center, a dedicated space for partners, clients and businesses in Asia Pacific. The centre enables stakeholders to engage with Visa technologists to co-create payment solutions ahead of demand as the payments landscape evolves rapidly,  delivering scalable innovation and addressing the biggest challenges and opportunities in digital payments in the region. Visa president Asia Pacific Stephen Karpin said Visa is bringing ideas to life in a way that’s truly unique to the Singapore Innovation Center, a dynamic hub where it transforms innovative concepts into practical solutions. “We are dedicated to helping businesses discover valuable insights early so they continue to stay ahead in the rapidly digitalising payments landscape. “By combining our expertise with cutting-edge technology and solution architecture, we work alongside our partners to materialise solutions that address payment challenges, driving real business value and growth for our clients,” he said in a statement. The Visa Singapore Innovation Center represents Visa’s vision of shaping tomorrow’s payment possibilities. Showcasing technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) in retail and payments, and reimagining modern credentials for enhanced security and convenience, it also serves as a springboard for thought leadership in decentralised and embedded finance, offering tailored solutions for businesses and fostering innovative collaborations with startups. Singapore Economic Development Board chairman Png Cheong Boon said the Visa Singapore Innovation Center deepens the longstanding partnership between Visa and Singapore and enables Visa to tap into the country’s vibrant innovation ecosystem to develop new solutions and create new business opportunities for the global market. “We look forward to strengthening and expanding this close partnership with Visa and also hope to encourage more global companies to undertake such activities in Singapore,” he said. Visa’s Singapore Innovation Center is at the forefront of developing advanced payment technologies, focusing on delivering significant business benefits.

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd (KLK) has redesignated Tan Sri Lee Oi Hian as the executive chairman effective February 22, 2024, following the retirement of Raja Tun Alias. The redesignation was made at KLK’s 51st annual general meeting held on February 21, 2024. Raja Tun Alias has served as a board member since July 1, 1978, and was appointed as chairman of KLK on May 1, 2008. KLK in a statement said Raja Tun Alias has shown exemplary leadership and steered the company through some of its most challenging times. “KLK has been most fortunate and indeed privileged to have Raja Tun Alias serve on the KLK board for more than 45 years, the last 15, as our chairman. “We remain forever grateful for his astute leadership and steady oversight of KLK’s expansion and related diversification,” Lee said in the statement. Lee joined KLK in 1974 as an executive and was appointed to the board of KLK on February 1, 1985. In 1993, he was appointed as the group chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) and held the position until 2008, when he relinquished his role as chairman, but remained as an executive director and CEO of the KLK. Lee is also the chairman of Batu Kawan Bhd, the holding company of KLK. KLK board and management thanked Raja Tun Alias for his distinguished service to the KLK over the last 45 years.