Energy & Technology

KUCHING, SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned company under the Sarawak government, has entered into a strategic partnership with South Korea’s leading artificial intelligence (AI) chipmaker, Rebellions Inc, to accelerate AI chip design and semiconductor development in the region. The collaboration is a key milestone in Sarawak’s ambition to position itself as a major player in the global semiconductor and AI technology landscape. It was announced during a courtesy visit by Rebellions’ leadership to the Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, at his office here today. SMD Semiconductor said in a statement that Rebellions’ visit followed a strategic engagement earlier this month, when a Sarawak delegation led by Deputy State Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel met with the company at its headquarters in Seongnam City, South Korea, on Oct 1. The partnership will be formally sealed through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2025 on Oct 22, to be witnessed by Abang Johari at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. During their visit, the Rebellions team presented updates on the company’s business outlook, its upcoming initial public offering (IPO), and proposed collaboration opportunities with Sarawak. The meeting also provided valuable insights ahead of Abang Johari’s participation as Malaysia’s keynote speaker at the upcoming ASEAN Conference on AI Adoption from Oct 26 to 28. The delegation from Rebellions was led by its chief executive officer and co-founder, Sunghyun Park, accompanied by co-CEO of InterVest Co Ltd, Chung Hee Woo, and Director John Ha. Joining them were SMD Semiconductor chairman Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar, CEO Shariman Jamil, and Ilham Capital Ventures Sdn Bhd CEO Abdul Aziz Abu Bakar. Rebellions Inc, recognised as a leader in AI accelerator and High Bandwidth Memory technologies, develops highly efficient, energy-saving processors optimised for AI performance. Its partnership with SMD Semiconductor — Sarawak’s fabless chip design firm specialising in analogue and mixed-signal integrated circuits — signifies a critical step in fostering cross-border innovation and advancing Sarawak’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain. Premier Abang Johari said the alliance reflects Sarawak’s long-term vision of building the Integrated Longhouse Silicon Valley, a world-class technology ecosystem. “This collaboration represents our determination to elevate Sarawak’s standing in the global semiconductor value chain. It demonstrates our commitment to nurturing a knowledge-driven economy that competes on an international level,” he said. SMD Semiconductor chairman Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman described the partnership as a defining milestone in Sarawak’s journey to become Asia’s “silicon nerve centre” for high-tech chip design and innovation. “By combining Sarawak’s growing capabilities with Rebellions’ proven AI expertise, we’re not just part of the global semiconductor growth — we’re driving it. This partnership will redefine innovation standards and solidify Sarawak’s position in the world technology arena,” he said. SMD Semiconductor CEO Shariman Jamil said the collaboration marks a breakthrough for Sarawak’s semiconductor ambitions. “Innovation in AI is no longer confined to Silicon Valley. With Rebellions’ AI strength and SMD’s design expertise, we are creating a powerful technological alliance that sets new benchmarks for efficiency, sustainability, and intelligence. This is how Sarawak makes its mark on the global semiconductor map,” he added.

KULAI, The Madani Submarine Cable Connection (Salam) project, allocated RM2 billion under Budget 2026, is set to significantly enhance internet connectivity and data transmission across Malaysia. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the implementation of the Salam project represents a crucial step towards strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure, in line with the government’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem under the Malaysia Madani framework. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the initiative marks a major step in strengthening Malaysia’s digital infrastructure, aligning with the government’s goal of building a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem under the Malaysia Madani framework. She explained that the new undersea cable network will help overcome the capacity limits of the existing 1Malaysia People’s Cable System (Scream), which has been operating for over a decade. “Scream has been in use for many years and is now nearing its maximum capacity. Hence, a new submarine cable system is urgently needed to meet today’s data demands,” she said. Teo noted that the surge in data transmission needs is driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and increasing dependence on digital platforms. “The volume of data being transmitted continues to grow sharply in this digital and AI-driven era,” she added, after officiating a fish release programme at Sungai Pontian Besar on Sunday. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim first announced the project during the tabling of Budget 2026 last Friday. The 3,190km cable system will be developed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). It will run from Sedili in Johor to Kuching and Sibu in Sarawak, before extending to Tuaran, Kudat, Pulau Banggi, Sandakan and Tawau in Sabah. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil previously said the Salam project will replace the ageing Scream network to support Malaysia’s growing digital needs and ensure faster, more reliable internet connectivity nationwide.

KUALA LUMPUR, Coastal Contracts Bhd said its wholly owned subsidiary, Elite Point Pte Ltd, has secured a new liftboat charter contract worth approximately RM12.8 million, marking another addition to the group’s growing portfolio in the offshore support services segment. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the group said the new 120-day charter will commence immediately following the completion of its previous contract, which ended on Sept 29 after the charterer decided not to exercise a one-year extension option. The new agreement also includes an optional extension period, allowing for potential continuity of services should the charterer require it. Coastal Contracts noted that the charter is expected to contribute positively to the group’s earnings and net assets for the financial years ending Dec 31, 2025 (FY2025) and FY2026. “The contract underscores Coastal’s proven capabilities and reliability in delivering quality offshore marine support, as well as our ability to secure repeat and new charters despite a competitive market environment,” the group said in its statement. It added that the primary risks associated with the contract are operational and execution-related, which are normal for projects of this nature in the oil and gas industry. The company said it has implemented comprehensive risk management practices to mitigate these risks. Coastal Contracts emphasised that none of its directors or substantial shareholders have any direct or indirect interest in the agreement, which the board believes is in the best interest of the group. The group has remained focused on expanding its offshore chartering and shipbuilding activities, capitalising on the recovery in the oil and gas sector and increasing demand for liftboats, which are widely used in offshore maintenance and well-servicing operations. At market close on Wednesday, shares of Coastal Contracts slipped one sen or 0.8% to RM1.19, valuing the company at RM664.9 million. The counter has declined 21.7% year to date.

KUALA LUMPUR, Rohas Tecnic Bhd has announced that its 86.8%-owned subsidiary, HG Power Transmission Sdn Bhd, has secured a RM28.67 million contract from Tenaga Nasional Bhd to carry out the 275kV bulk supply works for a data centre project located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor. HG Power Transmission, which specialises in the installation of electrical transmission lines and has ongoing operations in Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Nepal, will complete the project over an eight-month period. The contract forms part of TNB’s initiative to strengthen and expand the electrical supply infrastructure for critical data centre operations in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia. According to Rohas, the project is expected to contribute positively to the group’s earnings for the financial years ending Dec 31, 2025, and 2026, enhancing both revenue and operational performance. The company noted that securing such contracts reflects its growing presence in high-value infrastructure projects and demonstrates confidence in its technical capabilities and project execution track record. The latest award follows a series of strategic initiatives by Rohas to diversify its operations and strengthen its foothold in the power transmission sector. The company continues to leverage the expertise of HG Power Transmission in complex electrical installations, which positions it well for future infrastructure and energy-related projects locally and abroad. Shares of Rohas closed down one sen, or 3.45%, at 28 sen on Monday, giving the company a market capitalisation of RM132 million. Analysts note that while short-term share movements may fluctuate, long-term contracts like the TNB project are expected to provide sustainable contributions to the group’s earnings and overall growth strategy.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malakoff Corp Bhd has signed a reservation agreement with Mitsubishi Power Ltd to secure two M701JAC gas turbines and generators for its planned 1,400MW gas-fired power plant in southern Peninsular Malaysia. The agreement, signed last Friday, allows Malakoff to reserve manufacturing and delivery slots for the turbines and related equipment ahead of finalising its engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) contract. Malakoff said the move helps mitigate supply chain risks and ensures timely project delivery. Detailed commercial terms will be revealed once the final supply agreement is signed. The deal also gives Malakoff the option to reserve two additional turbines for another 1,400MW combined-cycle power plant planned in northern Peninsular Malaysia. Following the announcement, Malakoff’s shares rose six sen or 6% to RM1.06, valuing the company at RM5.3 billion. The stock has gained over 25% year-to-date.

KUALA LUMPUR, The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will intensify efforts to enhance nationwide connectivity, expand digital infrastructure, and promote technology-driven empowerment under Budget 2026. In a statement, MCMC said it will implement strategic initiatives to strengthen the communications and multimedia ecosystem, ensuring all Malaysians benefit from technological advancements fairly and inclusively. Key initiatives include the Madani Submarine Cable Connection (Salam) project, with an allocation of RM2 billion to build 3,190km of undersea cables linking Johor to Sabah and Sarawak, improving national internet access and connectivity. Additionally, the National Digital Network (Jendela) 2 project will expand broadband coverage to 2,700 new locations, particularly in rural and remote areas, supported by an allocation of RM780 million. Another RM650 million has been set aside to upgrade internet access in public hospitals and clinics to improve digital healthcare delivery. To support digital entrepreneurship, RM350 million will be channelled through the National Information Dissemination Centre (Nadi) to empower 1,099 community centres as training and e-commerce hubs for rural entrepreneurs. MCMC will also introduce an Early Warning System (EWS) worth RM210 million to improve national disaster preparedness and public safety. Meanwhile, to strengthen data sovereignty, the government will invest RM2 billion in developing a Sovereign AI Cloud, alongside establishing an AI Transformation Centre with Multimedia University (MMU) and a Centre of Excellence in Ethics for Emerging Technologies to support research and innovation. MCMC reaffirmed its support for the dual 5G network model, targeting 80% coverage by 2026 to ensure faster, more affordable internet access for citizens and businesses. At the same time, the Safe Internet Campaign will be expanded to raise cybersecurity awareness and promote responsible online behaviour. “These initiatives under Budget 2026 demonstrate MCMC’s commitment to strengthening connectivity, improving service efficiency, and ensuring equitable access to digital progress for all Malaysians,” it said.

KUALA LUMPUR, Yes, powered by YTL Communications, has made history by becoming the first telecommunications company in Malaysia — and the ninth in the world — to launch 5G Advanced, marking a significant leap forward in the nation’s digital infrastructure and connectivity. The upgraded 5G Advanced network is now live across the Klang Valley and is slated for nationwide completion by December 2025, according to Yes. The rollout of 5G Advanced promises to deliver faster speeds, stronger coverage, and greater reliability for both consumers and businesses. The enhanced network integrates AI-ready capabilities, enabling network slicing for stable, high-quality connections even in congested areas. Among its key improvements are: Wider and more consistent coverage, both indoors and outdoors Ultra-low latency for smoother gaming, streaming, and real-time applications Smarter, AI-driven performance optimisation Integration of 700MHz and 3500MHz spectrum bands for expanded reach and speed In a statement, Yes said all existing Yes 5G Postpaid and Wireless Broadband users will be automatically upgraded to 5G Advanced at no additional cost, allowing customers to immediately benefit from the next-generation network. To mark the launch, the telco announced new offerings for customers. These include the Yes 5G Advanced Broadband plan, which offers unlimited data and speed for RM68 per month with the Yes Infinite Gateway MAX router. Additionally, the Yes Infinite+ Advanced phone bundles will allow users to enjoy savings of up to RM3,999 on a range of 5G Advanced-ready devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S25, Nothing Phone (3), Honor, Vivo, Xiaomi, and ZTE smartphones. Yes’ 5G Advanced launch marks another milestone in YTL Communications’ commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda. The company said it remains focused on expanding accessibility to high-speed internet and ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of technological innovation in the region.

KUALA LUMPUR, Cypark Resources Bhd (KL:CYPARK) clarified that it has not yet received any formal adjudication claim from Solution Group Bhd regarding an alleged RM2.5 million payment dispute linked to a solar project in Kelantan. The claim was reportedly initiated by Solution Group’s subsidiary, Solar Solution Sdn Bhd (SSSB), against Cypark’s unit, Cypark Renewable Energy Sdn Bhd (CRESB), over works for the Tasik Danau Tok Uban solar project in Pasir Mas, which carried a contract value of RM3.14 million. In its filing with Bursa Malaysia, Cypark said SSSB has also launched another adjudication claim against its other subsidiary, Cypark Sdn Bhd (CSB), involving an alleged RM934,498 outstanding amount from a RM3.1 million contract for a project in Marang, Terengganu. Both adjudications, filed on Sept 30, have yet to proceed formally, as Cypark noted that adjudicators have not been appointed and no instructions have been issued for its subsidiaries to respond. “CRESB is disputing the two adjudications initiated by SSSB. Any statement suggesting that RM2.5 million is payable to Solution Group is premature and inaccurate, as no adjudication decision has been made,” Cypark said. The group added that the adjudications are not expected to have any material impact on its financial performance or net assets for the current financial year. Both CRESB and CSB have engaged legal counsel to handle the matter. The clarification follows Solution Group’s statement on Wednesday claiming that Cypark had failed to pay RM2.5 million for completed works involving floater installation, photovoltaic modules, DC cabling, a DC combiner box, and a central inverter. At market close on Thursday, Cypark’s shares were up one sen or 1.27% at 79.5 sen, valuing the company at RM650.01 million, while Solution Group rose 1.5 sen or 18.75% to 9.5 sen, with a market capitalisation of RM46.17 million.

GEORGE TOWN, Leader Energy Group Bhd (Leader Energy) is set to build a 100-megawatt (MW) solar farm in Tanjung Manis, Sarawak, to supply electricity to Syarikat SESCO Bhd (Sesco) under a 30-year power purchase agreement (PPA). The agreement was signed between Leader Energy (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd and Sesco, a subsidiary of Sarawak Energy Bhd. The project is expected to be completed by Dec 31, 2027. Leader Energy CEO and executive deputy chairman Datuk Sean H’ng said the project marks a key milestone in tapping Sarawak’s solar potential and supports the state’s clean energy transition. “This initiative goes beyond power generation — it’s about building capabilities and creating long-term value for the Tanjung Manis community,” he said, adding that the project aligns with the group’s goal of driving Malaysia’s renewable energy growth. The solar farm will be developed in partnership with Pusaka Capital Sdn Bhd — a subsidiary of the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation — and Smartgen Energy Sdn Bhd. Leader Energy joins several other companies that recently secured 100MW solar projects with Sesco, including Solarvest Holdings Bhd and Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd in Mukah, and a Malakoff Corp Bhd unit in Bintulu. These awards are part of Sarawak Energy’s plan to expand its solar capacity to 1,500MW by 2030, supporting the state’s target of achieving 10GW in total renewable energy capacity.

PETALING JAYA, Gadang Holdings Bhd announced that its consortium has secured a contract to develop a large-scale solar photovoltaic (LSSPV) power plant in Tawau, Sabah, valued at RM52 million. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on Tuesday, the construction and property development group said the award was received by Tenaga Aspirasi Sdn Bhd, its indirect 60%-owned subsidiary. The contract, for the engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) of a 15MWac solar facility, underscores Gadang’s growing involvement in Malaysia’s renewable energy sector. The project was awarded through a consortium formed between Gadang’s wholly owned unit, Gadang Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd, and JS Solar Sdn Bhd. Together, the partners will be responsible for the full EPCC scope — covering the plant’s design, procurement of materials and equipment, civil works, installation, as well as testing and commissioning to ensure compliance with technical and safety standards. According to Gadang, the contract is set to run for a period of 14 months, with completion targeted for the final quarter of 2026. Once operational, the LSSPV project is expected to contribute to Sabah’s renewable energy supply, in line with the nation’s broader clean energy transition under the government’s energy roadmap. “The award of this project is anticipated to contribute positively to the group’s revenue and earnings throughout the contract duration,” Gadang said, adding that the venture is consistent with its strategy of diversifying into sustainable energy infrastructure. Industry observers note that the latest win further strengthens Gadang’s track record in delivering infrastructure and utility-related projects, while also supporting Malaysia’s push to increase the share of renewable energy in its national energy mix.