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Investment & Market Trends

Maybank Gets BNM Approval For RM4.83 Billion Etiqa Stake Buyout

Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) has received approval from Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) to acquire the remaining 30.95% stake in Maybank Ageas Holdings Bhd, the holding company of Etiqa’s insurance and takaful businesses, for RM4.83 billion. Following BNM’s approval on 1 September 2026, Maybank announced that it had signed an unconditional share purchase agreement with Belgian insurance group Ageas to complete the acquisition. The deal, first announced on 3 August 2026, will be fully financed using Maybank’s internally generated funds. Maybank currently owns 69.05% of Maybank Ageas through its subsidiary, Etiqa International Holdings Sdn Bhd. Once the acquisition is completed, Maybank Ageas will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the banking group. Maybank Ageas oversees Etiqa’s insurance and takaful operations in Malaysia and Singapore, offering life and general insurance, as well as family and general takaful products. Maybank said gaining full ownership would provide greater flexibility to strengthen its insurance and takaful businesses. The acquisition is expected to support faster product development, expand bancassurance services, strengthen takaful offerings and improve operational efficiency. The RM4.83 billion purchase price includes adjustments relating to an RM800 million dividend that Maybank Ageas will distribute upon completion of the transaction. Of this amount, Ageas will receive RM248 million, while Maybank will receive RM552 million. According to Maybank, the acquisition values Maybank Ageas at 1.98 times its book value and 15.3 times its earnings. The transaction was expected to be completed on 11 September 2026. Following the acquisition, Maybank’s net assets per share are projected to decrease from RM7.73 to RM7.19, based on its financial position at the end of December 2025. The group’s total borrowings are expected to increase from RM44.24 billion to RM45.54 billion, while its gearing ratio is projected to rise from 0.47 times to 0.52 times. Meanwhile, Maybank shares declined two sen, or 0.19%, to RM10.56 during Tuesday’s midday trading session, giving the banking group a market capitalisation of approximately RM127.73 billion. The acquisition represents a significant step in Maybank’s strategy to strengthen its insurance and takaful operations, allowing the group to exercise full control over Etiqa’s future business development and expansion.

Property

NCT Alliance Launches RM2.5 Billion Phase Two Of Sepang Smart Industrial Park

NCT Alliance Bhd has officially launched the second phase of its NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) in Sepang, Selangor, with a gross development value (GDV) of RM2.5 billion. Spanning 230.13 acres, Phase 2 will feature 241 industrial units, including detached, semi-detached, cluster and terraced factories, alongside industrial land parcels. Details on unit sizes and pricing will be announced later. The development is part of the larger RM10.2 billion NSIP project, which will be completed in six phases. Phase 1, covering 230.09 acres with 280 factory units, has achieved a 90% take-up rate, with keys handed over to buyers during the Phase 2 launch. Future phases will introduce additional industrial facilities and commercial developments, including petrol stations and shoplots. NCT Alliance executive director Yap Chun Theng said the industrial park has attracted businesses from various sectors, including technology, manufacturing, automotive, hospitality, ESG-related industries and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). He highlighted that NSIP supports Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030, which focuses on high-value manufacturing, digitalisation and smart factory development. The project aims to move beyond traditional industrial parks by creating a modern, technology-driven industrial ecosystem with integrated management and services. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amiruddin Shari, who officiated the launch, said NSIP plays an important role in the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor (IDRISS) and the state’s industrial expansion. He expressed confidence that the development would attract high-value investments, create quality job opportunities and contribute to Selangor’s long-term economic growth. During the event, NCT Alliance also received a Master Services Agreement for the Managed Industrial Park (MIP) model from Majlis Perbandaran Kuala Langat. The MIP model combines centralised park management, security and digital services to improve business operations. It also includes the NCT G App, a digital platform that connects businesses and tenants directly with park management. Through these initiatives, NCT Alliance aims to establish NSIP as a modern, sustainable and well-managed industrial hub supporting Malaysia’s growing industrial sector.

Energy & Technology

Genting Sells 5% Stake In Indonesian LNG Project To Rukun Raharja

Genting Bhd, through its subsidiary Genting LNG Pte Ltd, has completed the sale of a 5% stake in PT Layar Nusantara Gas (PTLNG) to a subsidiary of Indonesian energy company PT Rukun Raharja Tbk. The transaction was completed on 4 September 2026, following the signing of a shareholders’ agreement and the fulfilment of conditions under the share sale and purchase agreement signed in April. Following the sale, Genting retains a 95% indirect ownership stake in PTLNG. PTLNG is developing Indonesia’s first floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) vessel, which will process natural gas produced from the Kasuri Block in West Papua. Genting said the partnership with Rukun Raharja, an established Indonesian energy provider, is expected to bring valuable local expertise and strengthen the project’s development. The collaboration is also expected to support Genting’s position in the regional LNG industry and create further growth opportunities. Meanwhile, Genting’s shares closed 1.95% lower on Tuesday, with approximately four million shares traded. The group had a market capitalisation of RM7.8 billion.

Property

QES Group Acquires Two Singapore Office Units For RM17.48 Million

QES Group Bhd is expanding its operations in Singapore with the acquisition of two office units worth S$5.47 million (approximately RM17.48 million). In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the company announced that QES (Singapore) Pte Ltd, a 70%-owned subsidiary of QES (Asia-Pacific) Sdn Bhd, had signed a sale and purchase agreement with Singapore-based property developer JVA Nir Pte Ltd. The two freehold units are located at the Space Nova development along New Industrial Road in Singapore. Although classified for clean industrial (B1) use, the units will be used as office spaces to support QES Singapore’s business operations. The purchase price will be paid in cash through instalments based on construction progress, with vacant possession expected by 30 June 2029. QES Group plans to finance 90% of the acquisition, or approximately S$4.92 million, through bank borrowings. The remaining 10% will be funded using internally generated funds. The company has already paid a 5% deposit of approximately S$270,000 on 7 August 2026. According to QES Group, the acquisition is part of its strategy to support future business expansion in Singapore. Its existing premises have limited space for daily operations and product demonstrations. The new units will provide additional room for business activities, equipment demonstrations and customer visits. The acquisition is expected to increase the group’s gearing ratio from 0.31 times at the end of 2025 to 0.39 times. However, QES Group does not expect the purchase to have a significant impact on its earnings per share for the current financial year. The company indicated that the transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026, while vacant possession of the units is scheduled for 2029. QES Group specialises in the sale and servicing of scientific instruments, industrial equipment and components. It also provides vision software solutions and engineering consultancy services. At the close of trading on Tuesday, QES Group shares fell two sen, or 3.4%, to 56.5 sen, giving the company a market capitalisation of approximately RM471.3 million. The property acquisition is expected to provide QES Singapore with additional space to support its operations and future business growth.

Investment & Market Trends

Navis Sells Village Grocer Operator To Thai Group

Private equity firm Navis Capital Partners has completed the sale of The Food Purveyor Sdn Bhd, the company behind Malaysia’s Village Grocer supermarket chain, to Thai retail group CP Axtra Public Company Ltd. Although the final transaction value was not disclosed, CP Axtra previously estimated the deal to be worth approximately RM1.66 billion when it announced the acquisition in March 2026. CP Axtra is the retail arm of Thailand’s CP Group, one of the country’s largest multinational conglomerates. Navis Capital Partners managing partner Rodney Muse said CP Group’s extensive experience in food retailing would help strengthen The Food Purveyor’s product offerings, logistics operations, technology capabilities and international expansion opportunities. The Food Purveyor operates several well-known supermarket brands in Malaysia, including Village Grocer, Ben’s Independent Grocer, BSC Fine Foods, Pasaraya OTK and The Food Merchant. The company was founded by the Ong family, which opened its first premium Village Grocer supermarket in Bangsar in 2004. Navis first invested in The Food Purveyor in 2014, supporting its growth and expansion across Peninsular Malaysia. Since then, the supermarket operator has expanded its network to 55 stores, strengthening its presence in Malaysia’s premium grocery retail market. Following the completion of the acquisition, The Food Purveyor has become an indirect subsidiary of CP Axtra through Lotus’s Stores (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, which operates the Lotus’s hypermarket chain in Malaysia. The acquisition brings The Food Purveyor’s premium supermarket brands under the same retail group as Lotus’s, creating opportunities for stronger operational collaboration and business growth. Navis was advised by Rothschild, Wong & Partners and PricewaterhouseCoopers throughout the transaction. The completed sale marks a significant ownership change for The Food Purveyor as it enters its next phase of growth under CP Axtra.

Investment & Market Trends

TRC Synergy Wins RM150 Million Data Centre Contract From Gamuda Unit

TRC Synergy Bhd has secured a RM149.98 million subcontract from Gamuda Engineering Sdn Bhd for underground infrastructure works at a hyperscale data centre project. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on 8 September 2026, the construction company announced that the contract was awarded to its wholly-owned subsidiary, TRC Construction Sdn Bhd. The project commenced on 14 August 2026 and is scheduled for completion on 25 November 2026. TRC Synergy said the contract is expected to contribute positively to the group’s earnings and net assets per share during the project period. This marks the company’s second contract win in 2026. Earlier in January, TRC Synergy secured a RM249 million contract to construct new complex buildings in Precinct 5, Putrajaya. The project was awarded to its wholly-owned subsidiary, Trans Resources Corporation Sdn Bhd, by Gilang Cendana Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Putrajaya Holdings Sdn Bhd. In December 2025, the group also secured a RM550.8 million contract from SRS Consortium Sdn Bhd, a Gamuda-led joint venture, for construction works related to Penang’s Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line. According to its financial results for the second quarter ended 30 June 2026, TRC Synergy has participated in tenders worth more than RM3.7 billion over the past two quarters. These tenders cover several sectors, including data centres, the Mutiara LRT project, government buildings, schools and other infrastructure developments. The company is actively pursuing new projects to strengthen its existing order book, which currently stands at approximately RM1.2 billion. TRC Synergy expressed confidence in securing additional contracts before the end of 2026. Meanwhile, the company’s shares closed unchanged at 26.5 sen, giving it a market capitalisation of approximately RM127.3 million. The latest contract further expands TRC Synergy’s involvement in Malaysia’s growing data centre and infrastructure construction sectors.

Investment & Market Trends

Favelle Favco Wins RM132 Million In Crane Supply Contracts

Favelle Favco Bhd has secured four new contracts worth a combined RM131.7 million to supply tower and offshore cranes. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on 8 September 2026, the crane manufacturer announced that its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Favelle Favco Cranes (M) Sdn Bhd and Favelle Favco Cranes Pty Ltd, will each supply one tower crane. Both tower cranes are expected to be delivered by the end of 2026. Meanwhile, Favelle Favco Cranes (M) Sdn Bhd will also supply two offshore cranes. The first is scheduled for delivery by mid-2027, while the second will be delivered in stages between the second and third quarters of 2027. The company said the newly secured contracts are expected to contribute positively to its earnings and net assets for the financial year ending 31 December 2026 and subsequent financial years. Favelle Favco also confirmed that the contracts will not affect its share capital or shareholding structure. Following the announcement, Favelle Favco shares closed unchanged at RM1.56 on Tuesday, giving the company a market capitalisation of approximately RM373.31 million. The latest contract wins add to Favelle Favco’s crane supply business, with deliveries scheduled across 2026 and 2027.

Energy & Technology

Theta Edge Secures LRT3 Telecom Infrastructure Contract

Theta Edge Bhd has secured a five-year contract from Prasarana Malaysia Bhd to develop and manage telecommunications infrastructure along the Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3), also known as the Shah Alam Line. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the company announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Theta Telecoms Sdn Bhd, has been appointed as the network operator and strategic partner by Prasarana Integrated Development Sdn Bhd. Under the agreement, Theta Telecoms will be responsible for installing, operating and maintaining telecommunications equipment and providing network services along the LRT3 route. Prasarana will receive either RM500,000 annually or 13% of the project’s gross revenue, whichever is higher. The remaining revenue will go to Theta Telecoms. The contract began on 1 September 2026 and will run for five years, with an option to extend for two additional five-year terms, depending on the company’s performance and compliance with the agreement. As part of the project, Theta Telecoms will develop telecommunications services along LRT3 tracks, stations and surrounding developments. The company also plans to offer additional network services to business customers. Theta Telecoms will oversee the design, installation and maintenance of fibre cables, telecommunications equipment and other network infrastructure. The company must ensure that all installations operate safely without affecting train services, signalling systems, power supply or existing railway infrastructure. Theta Edge said the contract provides an opportunity to expand its telecommunications business while generating recurring revenue and improving long-term cash flow. The group also expects to benefit from increasing demand for data and connectivity services in areas surrounding the LRT3 corridor. The project will be financed through internally generated funds or borrowings. As of 30 June 2026, Theta Edge had RM23.85 million in cash and total borrowings of RM9.14 million. The company has recorded annual losses since 2024. However, its financial performance showed improvement during the first half of 2026. For the six months ended 30 June 2026, Theta Edge narrowed its net loss to RM7.77 million from RM10.21 million in the corresponding period last year. Revenue increased to RM11.58 million from RM9.03 million over the same period. Stealth Solutions Sdn Bhd is currently Theta Edge’s largest shareholder, holding a 27.28% stake following Lembaga Tabung Haji’s disposal of its entire shareholding in January 2026. According to the Companies Commission of Malaysia, Stealth Solutions is 75%-owned by Datuk Amrul Hisyam Alias and 25%-owned by Norul Azwani Mohd Hanafi. Meanwhile, Theta Edge shares closed 0.5 sen lower, or 0.78%, at 63.5 sen, giving the company a market capitalisation of approximately RM74.32 million. The latest contract is expected to strengthen Theta Edge’s presence in Malaysia’s telecommunications infrastructure sector while creating opportunities for more stable, recurring income.

Investment & Market Trends

Public Bank To Buy Out Hong Kong Unit At HK$2.50 Per Share

Public Bank Bhd has proposed to take its Hong Kong-listed subsidiary, Public Financial Holdings Ltd (PFHL), private by purchasing the remaining shares it does not already own for HK$2.50 (RM1.29) per share. Public Bank currently holds a 73.23% stake in PFHL and plans to acquire the remaining 26.77%, representing approximately 293.9 million shares, for a total of HK$734.75 million. According to a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the bank confirmed that the offer price is final and will not be increased. The proposed privatisation will be carried out through a court-approved arrangement, under which shares held by minority shareholders will be cancelled and replaced with new shares issued to Public Bank. Once completed, PFHL will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Public Bank. The HK$2.50 offer represents a 61.29% premium over PFHL’s last traded share price of HK$1.55 on 19 August 2026. It is also 83.82% higher than the company’s average closing price of HK$1.44 over the previous 360 trading days. However, the offer price is 64.64% below PFHL’s unaudited net asset value of HK$7.08 per share as of 30 June 2026. Trading in PFHL shares has been suspended since 20 August, pending the announcement. PFHL operates several financial businesses, including banking, stockbroking, investment property leasing and vehicle financing. Its banking operations cover 29 branches in Hong Kong and one branch in China. Public Bank said the proposal provides minority shareholders with an opportunity to sell their shares at a premium, particularly as PFHL’s shares have historically traded at significant discounts to their book value. The bank added that taking PFHL private would help reduce listing expenses, simplify the group’s corporate structure and allow greater focus on its core banking operations. It also expects the move to contribute positively to future earnings. For the first six months ended 30 June 2026, PFHL recorded a net profit of HK$25.19 million, compared with HK$2.57 million during the same period last year. Operating income increased slightly to HK$692.22 million from HK$685.16 million. For the financial year ended 31 December 2025, PFHL returned to profitability with a net profit of HK$79.65 million, reversing a net loss of HK$999.39 million in 2024. The proposed privatisation remains subject to several conditions, including approval from at least 75% of the votes cast by eligible minority shareholders at a court-convened meeting. Meanwhile, Public Bank shares closed unchanged at RM5, valuing the banking group at approximately RM97.05 billion. The proposed acquisition is expected to strengthen Public Bank’s control over its Hong Kong operations while supporting its long-term business growth and operational efficiency.

Property

Centurion Corp Buys Pasir Gudang Workers’ Dormitory For S$67.2 Million

Centurion Corporation is expanding its presence in Malaysia with the acquisition of a workers’ accommodation facility in Pasir Gudang, Johor, for RM214.5 million (approximately S$67.2 million). The acquisition will increase the company’s accommodation capacity in Malaysia by approximately 20%, bringing its total to 43,980 beds across 14 properties. The newly acquired property is located on two adjoining parcels of leasehold land covering 9.73 acres, with leases expiring on 31 May 2069. The development consists of 444 apartment-style units across eight five-storey buildings, with a total built-up area of 749,358 sq ft and an approved capacity of 7,974 beds. The first section of the property is already operational and occupied by workers employed in nearby industrial areas. Tenants include companies involved in food manufacturing, chemicals, metals, logistics and other services. Meanwhile, construction of the second section has recently been completed, with leasing expected to begin progressively following the completion of the acquisition. The property is strategically located near Pasir Gudang’s established manufacturing and port facilities, and within five kilometres of the growing Tanjung Langsat heavy industrial corridor. Centurion Corporation CEO Kong Chee Min described the acquisition as an important milestone in strengthening the company’s Malaysian portfolio and supporting its investment commitment to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). “As more manufacturers establish operations in Johor, demand for compliant worker accommodation continues to grow. This asset complements our existing portfolio and positions us to meet that demand,” he said. The acquisition comes as Johor continues to attract manufacturing and industrial investments, creating growing demand for properly managed workers’ accommodation. Centurion Corporation shares closed at S$1.54 on 8 September, declining 1.91% for the day, although the stock had gained 12.41% year-to-date. The latest investment further strengthens Centurion’s position in Malaysia’s workers’ accommodation sector, particularly in Johor’s expanding industrial market.

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