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Ann Joo Resources Bhd has secured a RM37.4 million contract for a battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah. The contract was awarded to its indirect wholly owned subsidiary, IAC Infrastructure Sdn Bhd, by Universal Peak Sdn Bhd, which is part of a consortium with Blueleaf Energy selected by the Energy Commission of Malaysia to develop the project. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, Ann Joo said the scope of works includes the design, engineering, procurement, construction, installation and testing of a 100MW/400MWh utility-scale BESS facility, along with related civil, mechanical, electrical and infrastructure works. The project falls under the Energy Commission’s Malaysia Battery Energy Storage System (MyBeST) programme, which aims to strengthen the national power grid and support Malaysia’s transition towards a carbon-neutral energy system. Ann Joo said the contract duration will be finalised with Universal Peak, and the project is expected to contribute positively to the group’s future earnings and net assets. The group, traditionally known for manufacturing steel products such as billets, bars and wire rods, has also been expanding into the renewable energy space in recent years. In August 2023, Ann Joo diversified into solar energy through Ann Joo Green Energy Sdn Bhd, partnering with JAKS Solar Power Sdn Bhd and Fabulous Sunview Sdn Bhd to secure a 29.99MWac quota under Malaysia’s Corporate Green Power Programme. On Tuesday, Ann Joo shares closed down one sen or 1.47% at 67 sen, valuing the group at RM478.14 million.

The Ministry of Works has launched the Design and Installation Guidelines for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Systems, in conjunction with the 2026 Senior Officers’ Conference of the Public Works Department (JKR). Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan said the initiative supports the government’s green mobility agenda and is part of efforts to drive JKR’s smart reform in line with national policies to expand EV adoption. He said the guidelines are the first of their kind in Malaysia, providing a comprehensive reference for contractors, designers, government agencies, petrol station operators, and individuals involved in installing EV charging facilities. “Previously, there were no specific guidelines on EV charging system installation. This book will serve as a reference to ensure installations are carried out at suitable locations and comply with safety requirements,” he said. He added that the initiative aims to accelerate the development of EV charging infrastructure, not only at highway rest and service (R&R) areas, but also across federal, state and municipal roads under JKR supervision. Ahmad said JKR must take a proactive role as a facilitator in expanding EV charging stations, especially along non-highway road networks, to support the transition towards cleaner energy use. He noted that the limited availability of charging stations remains one of the key factors slowing EV adoption in Malaysia. He said EV infrastructure has so far been concentrated mainly at highway R&R areas and petrol stations operated by concessionaires, while coverage on other road networks remains limited. Ahmad also said earlier recommendations by JKR include expanding EV charging points beyond highways to include federal, state and local roads managed by authorities. “This effort will support wider EV usage, whether for motorcycles, cars or buses. Charging infrastructure is essential, and the lack of it continues to hinder adoption,” he said. On broader issues, he noted that the global energy crisis continues to affect economic stability, supply chains and costs, prompting the government to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding public welfare. He said the Works Ministry remains committed to improving service delivery by ensuring all project planning and implementation are carried out efficiently, with integrity and careful execution. “All challenges will be addressed strategically, including optimising resources, speeding up processes and improving on-the-ground efficiency,” he added.

French energy technology company Schneider Electric plans to open a Southeast Asia training centre in Malaysia this year, as rising demand from artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure drives higher energy needs across the region. The expansion comes as Southeast Asia’s data centre capacity is projected to triple by 2030, with Malaysia emerging as a key hub following major investments from global tech companies including Microsoft, Amazon, and Google. Malaysia also plays a significant role in the global semiconductor industry, accounting for around 13% of worldwide testing and packaging activity. Schneider Electric said the rapid growth of AI is increasing pressure on industries to improve energy efficiency and power management, particularly in energy-intensive sectors such as data centres and semiconductor manufacturing. The planned training centre will focus on providing technical skills and hands-on training for the company’s partners and customers across the region. It will cover technologies ranging from medium-voltage energy management systems to data centre solutions. Schneider Electric added that AI adoption is also supporting its own growth, as its equipment is widely used in server infrastructure, power systems and cooling solutions required for high-performance computing facilities. The company is also incorporating AI into its own energy management tools, including predictive systems that help optimise power usage, such as adjusting cooling systems based on weather conditions. These technologies can help reduce energy consumption by around 2% to 3%, which is significant for large-scale facilities like data centres and semiconductor plants.

Marine and industrial engineering products distributor Pansar Bhd has secured a RM234.89 million contract from the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) for the development of a water treatment plant project in Saratok, Betong, Sarawak. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on Wednesday, the group said the Letter of Acceptance was awarded to its wholly-owned subsidiary, Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd. The project involves the construction of a 30 million litres per day (MLD) water treatment plant at the existing Kaki Wong plant site, as well as the development of a new raw water intake facility and two booster pump stations to support water supply infrastructure in the area. Pansar said the project is scheduled to commence in June 2026 and is expected to be completed within 30 months from the start date. The group added that the contract is expected to contribute positively to its future earnings and strengthen its order book in the infrastructure and utilities segment. On Wednesday, Pansar shares closed unchanged at 49.5 sen, giving the company a market capitalisation of approximately RM346 million.