Author name: exchangemsia_admin

News

Fahmi Open To Talks On TikTok Media Livestream Revenue

The Communications Ministry is prepared to engage with TikTok to explore ways for Malaysian media organisations to generate revenue from livestream content broadcast on the platform. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said media organisations should have the opportunity to earn returns from audiences consuming content through their official channels. He said many media practitioners had raised concerns over the inability to monetise livestream content produced by their organisations. “Many of our media friends have asked why they are unable to generate revenue from the livestreams they produce, and I would like to convey the message from editors-in-chief to TikTok Malaysia’s Head of Public Policy for this matter to be considered. “Media organisations feel there is a need to identify revenue streams from livestream broadcasts and content they produce, which, in my view, are of very high quality,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Festival Belia @ National Youth Day 2026 celebration for the Federal Territories on Sunday. Speaking to reporters after the event, Fahmi said the issue extends beyond TikTok, noting that many social media platforms also benefit from content created by media organisations and official news accounts. However, he said editors-in-chief had informed him that some platforms, including TikTok, currently do not allow media organisations to monetise or receive financial returns from the content they publish. “As such, I am requesting, and I am prepared to hold discussions with TikTok to see what can be done to support media organisations in Malaysia. “If a media organisation conducts a livestream that attracts tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of viewers through its official account, there should be some form of return from platforms such as TikTok,” he said. Fahmi added that this is particularly relevant when audiences tune in because of the credibility of the media brand, yet are unable to send virtual gifts or financial contributions through the platform. He said the ministry would continue collaborating with social media platforms to support the sustainability of Malaysia’s media ecosystem, including exploring more suitable monetisation models for local media organisations.

Energy & Technology

U Business Launches Merchant 360 For Smarter F&B And Retail Solutions

U Mobile, together with partners EasyStore, FeedMe and Sunmi, mark the launch of ULTRA Business Merchant 360 — an integrated solution enabling F&B and retail businesses to operate smarter and more efficiently. From left to right: Mr. Alan Kok, Co-founder and Chief Business Development Officer, EasyStore, King Wei Lo, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, FeedMe, How Lih Ren, Chief Business Officer, U Mobile, Victor Tan, Regional Managing Director, Sunmi. U Business, the enterprise arm of Malaysia’s newest 5G network provider U Mobile, has launched ULTRA Business Merchant 360, an integrated business solution catered especially for F&B and retail businesses. The bundle provides business owners a one-stop solution for POS hardware, business-related software, and U Mobile’s ULTRA 5G connectivity. This latest innovation seeks to address key pain points faced by small and medium F&B and retail businesses. Among the benefits of ULTRA Business Merchant 360 include: 1) Simplified bundle selection process ULTRA Business Merchant 360 is a one-stop solution for POS hardware, F&B and retail enterprise solutions, as well as connectivity. It saves business owners the time and effort required if they were to go to different providers for the same requirements. 2) Caters to diverse business needs It gives end-users the flexibility to select their preferred POS hardware and software solutions from a curated ecosystem of industry-leading partners. This includes Point-of-Sale (POS) hardware from SUNMI, as well as business solutions such as FeedMe, which supports restaurant ordering and front-of-house management, and EasyStore, which enables businesses to manage sales channels, inventory, and customer touchpoints seamlessly across online, offline, and hybrid retail environments. 3) Lowers barriers to entry for SMEs ULTRA Business Merchant 360 helps small and medium enterprises aiming to digitise their businesses, as it is the first integrated solution offering a monthly subscription model available through a flexible 24-month instalment plan, with upfront fees as low as RM265 per month. “At U Business, we believe in innovating digital solutions, made possible by our ULTRA 5G connectivity. In the case of ULTRA Business Merchant 360, we have addressed key pain points of SME F&B and retail outlets. “By bundling our reliable, seamless and quality connectivity with industry-leading POS hardware and business software together, and by offering a flexible subscription model via a flexible 24-month instalment plan, we have removed obstacles for F&B and retail businesses to digitise their operations for long-term sustainability,” said How Lih Ren, Chief Business Officer of U Mobile. Upon subscribing to ULTRA Business Merchant 360, F&B and retail outlets will be e-invoice ready and will be able to support delivery platforms across online, offline, and hybrid retail environments, from key marketplaces to social media and messaging platforms. Apart from that, they will also benefit from ready access to logistics and delivery providers, payment gateway providers, as well as key accounting software, helping businesses manage operations more efficiently through a centralised platform. On top of that, F&B and retail outlets will be able to establish an online presence more easily through this integrated digital solution. It will also enable a more automated approach, real-time visibility, better workflow, and decision-making, further supporting scalability while reducing costs. The solution will also improve efficiency in servicing customers more effectively, a vital sector factor for F&B and retail outlets. “ULTRA Business Merchant 360 reflects our commitment to empowering Malaysian SMEs with enterprise-grade digital capabilities through a seamless and integrated ecosystem. “By combining U Mobile’s high-performance 5G connectivity with intelligent POS hardware from SUNMI and trusted business platforms such as FeedMe and EasyStore, we are enabling merchants to modernise operations, strengthen customer engagement, and build scalable businesses for the future economy,” said Victor Tan, Regional Managing Director of SUNMI. “FeedMe was built with one belief: great taste should last forever. Many F&B merchants create amazing food but struggle with digital operations, compliance, reporting, and day-to-day workflow complexity. “Through ULTRA Business Merchant 360, we are proud to work with U Business and partners to make restaurant digitalisation more accessible, practical, and sustainable for SMEs. “By combining reliable connectivity, POS hardware, and FeedMe’s restaurant management platform, merchants can run their operations with better visibility, efficiency, and confidence, so they can focus on what matters most: serving great food and growing their business,” said King Wei Lo, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of FeedMe. “Building a commerce platform is not only about technology — it is about understanding the daily challenges merchants face. Every feature, integration, and partnership we build at EasyStore is designed with the goal of helping businesses grow more efficiently and sustainably,” said Alan Kok, Co-Founder and Chief Business Development Officer of EasyStore. To mark the launch, U Business is offering exclusive promotional pricing for the F&B bundles for the first 150 sign-ups, as well as value-added offerings such as an additional one-year POS device warranty, one-time complimentary POS onsite support, and other benefits.

Events

AIROD Hosts Appreciation Ceremony For Hercules C-130 OEM

AIROD Sdn Bhd, a leading Malaysian military Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) provider and a subsidiary of National Aerospace and Defence Industries Sdn Bhd (NADI), hosted a reciprocal appreciation ceremony with Lockheed Martin Corporation, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of the C-130 Hercules aircraft operated by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), at its facility in Subang. The event commemorated a successful 40 years of enduring cooperation between both organisations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to sustaining the operational readiness, reliability, and long-term support of the global C-130 Hercules fleet. AIROD was established in 1976 as Malaysia’s first in-country depot-level maintenance facility dedicated to supporting the RMAF C-130 Hercules and other aircraft types. Since its inception, AIROD has played a central role in ensuring fleet availability through comprehensive airframe, engine, avionics, structural, upgrade, and engineering support services. Over the past five decades, the company has delivered heavy maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for more than one hundred and fifty (150) RMAF C-130 aircraft, contributing significantly to the operational readiness of Malaysia’s strategic airlift capability in support of military operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief missions, and national security requirements. In 1984, AIROD was corporatised through a joint venture between Aerospace Industries Malaysia (now National Aerospace & Defence Industries – NADI) and Lockheed Aircraft Systems International (LASI), further strengthening technical cooperation and industrial collaboration between both organisations. AIROD became a recognised Lockheed Martin Authorised Hercules Service Centre (HSC) on 12 November 1986 and became a wholly Malaysian-owned aerospace company in 1995. It is among the most extensively certified HSCs, with capabilities covering C-130 depot-level maintenance, landing gear repair and overhaul, fuselage stretch conversion, and air-to-air tanker conversion. Today, the company provides sustainment support to both military and commercial operators worldwide, including across the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Africa, and other international regions. “The partnership between AIROD and Lockheed Martin is not only enduring but foundational to our success as a global MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) leader,” said Major General Dato Ir. Ibrahim bin Bahari, CEO of AIROD. “For four decades, we have shared knowledge, technology, and commitment to excellence, ensuring the operational readiness of the C-130 fleet for Malaysia and our international clients.” “Celebrating four decades of partnership with AIROD highlights the enduring strength of our collaboration and the shared commitment to keeping the C-130 Hercules fleet at the forefront of operational readiness,” said Mark Jarvis, Lockheed Martin Director and Program Manager, Air Mobility and Maritime Missions International Sustainment Programs. “Together, we have built a foundation of trust, technical excellence, and innovation that supports Malaysia’s air capabilities and our global customers. As we look ahead, Lockheed Martin remains dedicated to deepening this relationship, expanding our commitment, and delivering the next generation of MRO solutions that will sustain the Hercules, ensuring readiness in the Pacific region and beyond.” Over the course of its four-decade collaboration with Lockheed Martin, AIROD has expanded its technical capabilities and international footprint while continuing to support the RMAF C-130 fleet and other aircraft types. Building upon this strong domestic foundation, AIROD has broadened its support to numerous global operators of the C-130 platform. Among its notable international engagements was the repair and maintenance support provided for the Royal Thai Air Force’s C-130 aircraft in 2011, following the severe flooding at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport, which caused significant operational disruption. In 2015, AIROD was also entrusted by the Indonesian Ministry of Defence to recover a major C-130 programme that had previously been abandoned under an earlier arrangement with an international MRO provider. The company successfully completed the recovery and upgrade programme for five aircraft, which involved retrofit works, outer wing replacement, and major structural restoration, within the stipulated contractual timeline. The programme significantly enhanced the operational availability and extended the service life of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) fleet. Between 1990 and 2005, AIROD supported the United States Air Force (USAF) Pacific Air Forces C-130H fleet through programmed depot maintenance, inspections, and structural repairs, covering more than 120 aircraft over a 15-year period. From 2015 to 2019, the company also executed a five-year maintenance programme for the United States Marine Corps KC-130J fleet based in Iwakuni, Japan, which included scheduled and drop-in maintenance, landing gear replacement, and structural repair activities for 15 aircraft. In addition to depot-level maintenance, AIROD has developed a Global Line Services (GLS) capability, deploying specialist teams internationally to support operators with crash recovery, battle damage repair, structural refurbishment, in-country technical assistance, and modification programmes. These services have been delivered across multiple countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Botswana, Ecuador, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Libya, Mali, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Headquartered in Subang, Selangor, AIROD has served more than 76 customers across 35 countries and is recognised as one of the region’s leading aerospace MRO providers. The company delivers a full spectrum of services, including heavy maintenance, upgrades, modifications, component support, engineering services, and global field operations for both military and commercial sectors. Lockheed Martin is a global defence technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. The company is the OEM of the C-130 Hercules Tactical Airlifter, one of the most widely used military transport aircraft in the world.

The Executives

Ms. Seri Idawaty Mat Zain Appointed CEO Of MICPA Malaysia

TYMBA extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Seri Idawaty Mat Zain on her appointment as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA) Malaysia. Recognised for her dedication and leadership, Ms. Seri Idawaty’s appointment marks a significant milestone for MICPA Malaysia as the organisation continues to strengthen the accounting profession and drive excellence within the industry. In a statement, TYMBA expressed confidence in Ms. Seri Idawaty’s leadership, noting that her appointment signals an exciting new chapter for MICPA Malaysia. “We warmly congratulate Ms. Seri Idawaty Mat Zain on this well-deserved appointment. Her leadership, expertise, and commitment to professional excellence will undoubtedly contribute to further elevating the accounting profession in Malaysia,” the statement said. As MICPA Malaysia continues to play a pivotal role in shaping accounting standards, talent development, and professional growth in the country, stakeholders are optimistic about the direction and progress the institution will achieve under Ms. Seri Idawaty’s stewardship. TYMBA also conveyed its best wishes to Ms. Seri Idawaty as she embarks on this new leadership journey, expressing confidence in the positive impact and meaningful contributions ahead. “Here’s to your continued success and the many great achievements to come,” TYMBA added.

Lifestyle

Capri By Fraser Debuts Its Design-Led Lifestyle In Penang’s George Town

Frasers Hospitality today announced the soft opening of Capri by Fraser, Penang / Malaysia, marking the brand’s debut in Penang. Located at 31 Jalan Magazine, steps away from George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 22-storey property brings Capri by Fraser’s design-led social living concept to one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive cultural destinations. “The opening of Capri by Fraser, Penang strategically enhances our presence in Malaysia, one of the most competitive markets in Asia. Penang’s distinct character, a fusion of world-class heritage, art and gastronomy, provides a compelling backdrop for our lifestyle-oriented Capri by Fraser brand,” said Mr Chew Hang Song, Chief Operating Officer of Frasers Hospitality. “With Capri by Fraser, Penang, we are creating a social hub where travellers can connect easily with the energy of George Town, whether for short stays or longer.” Capri by Fraser, Penang offers 248 thoughtfully designed rooms and residences across seven categories, including studio rooms and one-bedroom residences with fully equipped kitchenettes. Created for independent, modern travellers, each room features an in-room drip coffee experience, IPTV with Google Cast, and digital concierge access. Select room types also include bathtubs, as well as separate living and dining areas, while filtered drinking water is available either via in-room systems or conveniently located stations across the property. Studio Premier King. At the heart of the hotel is The Den, Capri by Fraser’s signature social space, a relaxed, welcoming hub for check-in, casual gatherings and light bites. The Grab & Go counter, operated in collaboration with Norm Micro Roastery, serves up gourmet pastries, sandwiches and artisanal coffee by day, with alcoholic beverages available in the evenings. Spin & Play adds a playful twist on everyday essentials, combining a games room with a self-service laundrette to transform a daily chore into downtime for residents. The Den. The pet-friendly property also features a sheltered swimming pool, jacuzzi, fully equipped gymnasium, dedicated yoga room, and three EV charging stations for more sustainable road trips. Guests travelling with pets can enjoy thoughtful amenities, along with access to exclusive grooming partners offering convenient pick-up and drop-off services. For those blending business and leisure, flexible meeting and event spaces cater to modern bleisure travel in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic destinations. Heritage and modernity in conversation Capri by Fraser, Penang is housed in a preserved heritage shophouse fronting Jalan Magazine, set against the clean verticality of a newly constructed 22-storey tower rising behind it. Kuala Lumpur-based architect, artist and curator Mr Lian Kian Lek, the creative mind behind the George Town Festival 2024 key visual, was appointed as the “cultural translator” between the heritage shophouse and the new tower. With a mandate to integrate the old and new through layers of authentic storytelling in the walls, corridors and rooms, Lian oversaw both the art curation and wayfinding signage, ensuring that the navigation and visual narrative were brought to life as a single, coherent language throughout the building. The Art: A voyage through the tapestry of Penang The hotel’s art collection features works from six commissioned artists, each bringing a distinct perspective on Penang’s cultural identity. Spanning the lobby, lift corridors and guestrooms across all 15 guest floors, the collection unfolds as a visual journey — beginning with the kinetic energy of Penang’s streets, through to its architectural heritage, and culminating in the intimate human stories expressed through the island’s food, craft and community. Further details on the artists and their individual commissions are available in the property media factsheet. Palm House Restaurant and Bar by Norm The food and beverage programme is anchored by Norm, one of George Town’s most recognised homegrown hospitality names, the team behind Norm Micro Roastery, Norm Café, cocktail bar Noct, and the acclaimed Peninsula House. In addition to the Grab & Go counter at The Den, Norm operates Palm House, an all-day restaurant and bar at Capri by Fraser, Penang. Their presence positions the hotel not merely as a place to stay, but as a genuine social address rooted in the character of George Town, a destination in its own right for locals and travellers alike. The soft opening of Capri by Fraser Penang builds on the brand’s regional social media campaign, Capri by Fraser Takes Flight, which ran across Southeast Asia and Australia. Inspired by Penang’s migrating bird motifs, the campaign symbolised movement, connectivity, and new horizons. Concluded on 30 April 2026, the activation invited 258 participants to spot hidden birds across social channels of participating properties, with 30 winners earning a two-night stay to enjoy the unique charms of Penang. Guests may book directly at Capri by Fraser, Penang to enjoy an Opening Special of 25% off Best Available Rates inclusive of breakfast, or contact the property at [email protected].

Energy & Technology

Gentari Puts Safety At The Heart Of LSS5 Construction

Gentari’s senior leaders recently led a site safety visit to the Large-Scale Solar 5 (LSS5) project in Kuala Muda, Sungai Petani, Kedah, reaffirming the company’s commitment to safety, execution discipline, and responsible project delivery as construction progresses on the 150MWp facility. The visit comes as Gentari, through Gentari LSS Lima Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Gentari Renewables Sdn Bhd, advances construction following a successful bid under Malaysia’s fifth LSS programme in December 2024. The project reinforces Gentari’s position as a utility-scale renewables player, supporting national efforts to expand renewable energy capacity and accelerate progress under Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). With a total national target capacity of approximately 2,000MWac, LSS5 is the largest large-scale solar quota introduced to date and represents a key implementation pillar under the NETR, which aims for Malaysia to achieve 70 per cent renewable energy generation capacity by 2050. Once completed, Gentari’s large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) facility is expected to supply up to 150MWp of clean electricity to Malaysia’s power system under a 21-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Gentari Group Chief Operating Officer and Country Head of Malaysia, Shah Yang Razalli, said: “This transition from planning into execution reflects Gentari’s commitment to deliver utility-scale renewable energy infrastructure that supports Malaysia’s long-term energy transition. This project aims to build resilient, future-ready energy assets that strengthen national energy security and accelerate decarbonisation under the NETR. “As we move into the construction phase, our priority is to ensure the project is delivered on-time, on-scope, and on-budget, to the highest technical, environmental, and safety standards. This will further cement our position as a trusted long-term clean energy partner, translating national ambition into tangible impact for industries, businesses, and the wider energy ecosystem.” Once operational, the project is expected to contribute towards reducing Malaysia’s reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions by an estimated 166,766 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) per year, and enhancing long-term energy resilience. It is also anticipated to generate positive local economic impact through job creation during the construction phase, as well as for longer-term operations and maintenance activities. LSS5 supports the Northern Corridor Economic Region by delivering reliable clean energy that attracts higher-value investments and drives sustainable regional growth. The project aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030) and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, enabling advanced manufacturing, technology-driven industries, and resilient green infrastructure. In doing so, LSS5 advances Malaysia’s energy transition while strengthening local communities and the wider regional economy.

Property

AEON Mall KL Midtown Reveals Key Tenants Ahead Of Q4 Opening

Artist’s impression of AEON Mall KLMidtown, located alongside office towers, residential components and the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown. AEON today unveiled a selection of key retail partners set to be part of AEON Mall KL Midtown, marking another milestone ahead of the mall’s opening in the fourth quarter of this year at KL Metropolis. Held at the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown, the AEON Mall KL Midtown Hard Hat Party brought together representatives from participating brands, business partners and stakeholders. The event offered an exclusive first look at the mall’s retail direction, with a selection of confirmed tenants revealed to media and invited guests. Artist’s impression of the mall’s interior design. Among the tenants confirmed to date are Oriental Kopi, Dolly Dim Sum, Sushiro, Verrona Hills Bakery & Patisserie, KOMEHYO, Seiko Vision Specialist, Omakase Lab and Luxe Hair & Nail, with further names to be announced in the lead-up to opening. Anchoring the mall will be the AEON Store, which will bring AEON’s full retail proposition to the heart of the development, reinforcing the mall’s positioning as a well-rounded destination spanning fashion, dining, lifestyle and everyday essentials. In addition to the tenant unveiling, guests were given updates on the mall’s overall progress, including its leasing direction, marketing plans, tenant design coordination and customer engagement initiatives. The event also included a site visit, providing attendees with an early preview of the development as it progresses towards completion. According to AEON managing director Tsugutoshi Seko, the strong participation from established brands reflects positive leasing momentum and growing confidence in the project. AEON Mall KL Midtown Hard Hat Party brought together representatives from participating brands, business partners and stakeholders. “AEON Mall KL Midtown represents an important addition to our portfolio as we continue to strengthen our presence in key growth areas across Malaysia. The response from retail partners has been encouraging, and it speaks to the confidence they have in the mall’s positioning and its long-term potential within KL Metropolis. “As our first mall within a development of this scale, we are focused on building a destination that genuinely serves the surrounding community, where everyday convenience and meaningful experiences come together in a place people want to return to. We look forward to bringing that vision to life later this year,” he said. AEON Mall KL Midtown is AEON’s 28th mall in Malaysia and forms part of the broader KL Midtown development within KL Metropolis. The mall is expected to further enhance the retail offering within the area, contributing to a more vibrant mix of commercial and lifestyle experiences in Kuala Lumpur city centre. Further announcements will be made as the opening approaches.

Lifestyle

Dr Anne Skincare: Building Trust Through Science, Safety & Sustainable Beauty

In today’s highly competitive beauty and skincare industry, consumer expectations have evolved far beyond attractive packaging and fast results. Increasingly, consumers are seeking brands they can trust — products that are safe, scientifically formulated, and capable of delivering long-term benefits without compromising skin health. Amid this changing landscape, Dr Anne Skincare has positioned itself as a brand focused not merely on beauty, but on credibility, education, and sustainable growth. Dr Anne Skincare is a skincare brand that focuses on sensitive skin treatment and anti-ageing solutions, offering products formulated with halal-sourced ingredients and backed by scientific research. The company’s target market primarily consists of consumers who have experienced skin issues caused by unsafe skincare products and are searching for healthier and safer alternatives. Today, the brand is recognised for its science-driven formulations, commitment to transparency, and emphasis on delivering effective yet safe skincare solutions. However, the company believes its role extends far beyond selling skincare products. At its core, Dr Anne Skincare sees itself as solving a growing trust issue within the beauty industry — particularly in a market where consumers are increasingly exposed to products containing harmful ingredients such as mercury and other unsafe substances. While many products promise instant results, the long-term consequences can often be damaging to consumers’ skin and health. According to the company, skin problems also affect emotional well-being, confidence, and social interaction. This understanding has shaped the company’s approach toward consumer engagement. Rather than relying solely on product marketing, Dr Anne Skincare actively educates users about skin conditions, skincare routines, and ingredient awareness while maintaining a transparent and honest communication style with customers. Long before sensitive skincare became a mainstream trend, the company identified a significant gap in the market. Many consumers were struggling with sensitive skin issues but lacked understanding about the root causes or appropriate care methods. At the same time, the industry was heavily driven by trend-based marketing and promises of immediate transformation. Instead of following that direction, Dr Anne Skincare chose to build its brand through consistency, science-based education, and long-term consumer trust. As the industry matured, consumer awareness also increased. Today, the challenge is no longer just about introducing products into the market, but about building long-term relationships and maintaining credibility in an increasingly crowded and competitive environment. The company believes that modern consumers are becoming more informed and selective, making trust one of the most valuable assets any brand can possess. To support its next phase of growth, Dr Anne Skincare is now placing significant emphasis on strengthening its brand foundation, improving human capital development, and maintaining strict quality control across both ingredients and manufacturing processes. The company is also adapting to changing business trends by integrating AI-driven management systems aimed at improving efficiency, accelerating processes, and streamlining information management. One of the company’s most important strategic shifts has been its expansion into manufacturing. What initially began as a skincare product business has evolved into a GMP- and Halal-certified cosmetics manufacturing operation, enabling the company to strengthen quality assurance while increasing production capacity and operational control. Looking ahead, Dr Anne Skincare has even larger ambitions. Over the next four to five years, the company plans to establish a high-technology research and development laboratory dedicated to scientific skincare innovation. The facility is expected to house local scientists focused on conducting research and developing high-impact formulations using Malaysian-based resources and ingredients. Beyond enhancing product innovation, the initiative is also intended to reduce reliance on imported raw materials while increasing the company’s credibility within the industry. For Dr Anne Skincare, growth is not measured purely through sales performance alone. The company defines growth as a balance between customer expansion, profitability, employee welfare, and long-term sustainability. While revenue growth remains important, maintaining product quality and ensuring the well-being and development of employees are equally prioritised as part of the company’s long-term business philosophy. Like many growing organisations, scaling the business has also introduced new operational challenges. According to the company, one of the biggest difficulties lies in maintaining consistent profitability while simultaneously preserving a strong organisational structure and healthy workplace culture. As the business expands, the company continues to invest in automation systems and inventory management technologies to ensure operations remain organised, efficient, and responsive to market changes. The company also recognises the importance of staying aligned with current technological developments and evolving consumer trends. In an industry where market preferences shift rapidly, adaptability has become a critical component of long-term survival and competitiveness. Founder and Chief Formulator of Dr. Anne Skincare – Dr. Nurhidayah Roslan. Beyond products and operational systems, one of Dr Anne Skincare’s strongest competitive advantages lies in something less visible externally — its deep understanding of customers. The company places strong emphasis on listening closely to customer feedback, understanding their emotional experiences with skin problems, and continuously refining services, educational content, and product formulations based on real consumer insights. This customer-centric culture has become deeply embedded within the organisation. Rather than developing products solely around market trends, the company prioritises formulations grounded in scientific research and practical effectiveness for consumers. It believes that genuine understanding of customer experiences creates stronger long-term loyalty than short-term marketing campaigns alone. Sustainability is another area where the company has taken practical steps toward responsible business growth. One initiative introduced by Dr Anne Skincare is its recycling programme, where customers can return ten empty product bottles in exchange for one complimentary bottle. The company has also implemented efforts to reduce electricity and water consumption while minimising operational waste across its processes. As the company enters its next stage of development, international expansion has also become part of its long-term vision. Alongside building its manufacturing and R&D capabilities, Dr Anne Skincare plans to strengthen its organisational systems, operational stability, and leadership pipeline to support sustainable regional growth. For the company, reaching international markets is not simply about exporting products, but about building a Malaysian skincare brand capable of competing through science, quality, and credibility on a larger stage. This next phase will require stronger

Investment & Market Trends

Ningbo Fresh Technology To Invest RM263 Million In Tanjong Malim Expansion

Ningbo Fresh Technology Co Ltd of China will invest an additional RM263 million to expand its operations in Tanjong Malim, Perak, further strengthening Malaysia’s automotive industry ecosystem. Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the company already operates an automotive component manufacturing plant in Tanjong Malim and is now planning to scale up its presence at the Tanjong Malim Hi-Tech Park. He said the expansion is aimed at serving both local and export markets, and is expected to boost the state’s economic growth while creating high-skilled job opportunities and supporting technology transfer and local talent development. “This investment is expected to further stimulate the state’s economic growth, creating high-skilled job opportunities and accelerating technology transfer and local talent development,” he said in a Facebook post. Saarani is currently leading a Perak trade and investment mission to China, which includes visits to several companies such as Ningbo Fresh Technology in Shanghai. He added that Perak will continue to position itself as a strategic investment destination for the automotive and high-technology sectors, as well as future-focused industries. Earlier during the mission, the Perak State Agricultural Development Corporation also signed a memorandum of strategic cooperation with Shuita Energy Group Co Ltd to explore renewable energy development projects in the state.

Energy & Technology

ADE Secures US$100m Financing From QNB To Expand Regionally

Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) arm of Capital A Bhd, has secured a US$100 million financing facility from QNB Group, a financial institution based in the Middle East and Africa. In a statement, ADE said the financing will support its continued expansion and capacity growth as it strengthens its position as one of the region’s fastest-growing MRO providers. The company said the additional funding will enhance its ability to serve a growing portfolio of airline customers, while also supporting its long-term anchor client, the AirAsia group. ADE said the financing reflects strong confidence in its track record, growth momentum and long-term expansion potential. Chief executive officer Mahesh Kumar said ADE has already completed more than 300 C-checks, highlighting the scale and consistency of its maintenance capabilities. “These funds will accelerate our expansion plans, invest in additional capacity to meet strong and growing demand for MRO services, and strengthen our ability to deliver efficient, world-class maintenance that minimises downtime and maximises performance for our airline customers,” he said. Capital A CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said ADE has evolved from an internal engineering unit serving AirAsia into a growing aviation services provider supporting multiple international airlines, including Air France. “I’m confident ADE will move even faster, expand further and seize the huge opportunities in the MRO space, ultimately becoming a regional powerhouse,” he said. QNB Group senior executive vice president of Group Corporate and Institutional Banking Khalid Ahmed Al-Sada said the deal supports the growth of the aviation MRO sector in Asia and expands the bank’s international footprint across the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia. ADE provides end-to-end engineering and maintenance services across the region, with a line maintenance network covering 20 airports across ASEAN and base maintenance capability of up to 16 lines, along with specialised workshops in Kuala Lumpur. The company is also an Approved Maintenance Organisation in 18 countries and holds certifications from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Scroll to Top

Subscribe
FREE Newsletter