Energy & Technology

PETALING JAYA, Singapore-based Entermind, positioned as the world’s first AI consulting firm to fuse data engineering with human experience, officially launched today. In its statement, Entermind said its multidisciplinary team brings together data engineers, AI and machine learning architects, insight strategists, and human experience designers—talent drawn from leading consultancies and startups worldwide. Beyond Singapore, the company will establish offices in Silicon Valley, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangalore. Apart from Singapore, Entermind will have offices in the Silicon Valley, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangalore. Founder Prashant Kumar said that with AI poised to disrupt the consulting industry, Entermind seeks to deliver a truly “native” approach to AI-driven business transformation—helping companies reimagine their products, capabilities, knowledge, processes, and competitive edge. Kumar, author of the bestseller Made in Future, explained that this transformation involves rethinking internal knowledge graphs, creating AI-native data architectures and ontologies, and building applications designed to solve real-world business challenges. “Most first-generation AI pilots are struggling to scale because they are still being approached in a legacy manner,” he said.“It’s crucial to understand that generative AI ‘speaks’ the same language as humans. To unlock its full potential for enterprises, we need an approach that is native to AI.” Entermind’s services will include harnessing and structuring data for AI-native knowledge and decision systems, designing AI-powered products and services, developing AI-led growth engines, and enabling AI-driven sales and customer service.

TOKYO, Japan Post Bank has announced plans to roll out a digital yen by the end of fiscal 2026, in a move aimed at enhancing convenience for its vast depositor base and further modernising the country’s financial infrastructure. The initiative underscores the growing momentum among Japanese financial institutions and corporates to embrace blockchain technology as a way to improve the speed, transparency, and efficiency of financial transactions. Japan Post Bank, one of the country’s largest deposit-taking institutions with approximately 190 trillion yen (US$1.29 trillion) in deposits, will introduce a digital currency known as DCJPY, developed by DeCurret DCP. The announcement was made in a joint statement released on Monday by the two companies. Once operational, depositors will be able to seamlessly convert their yen holdings into DCJPY, enabling instant settlement of digital securities, tokenised assets, and other blockchain-based instruments. This innovation is expected to provide customers with faster, more secure and transparent transaction options compared to traditional systems. “Our tokenised deposit currency under consideration will allow for instant and highly transparent transactions through blockchain technology,” Japan Post Bank and DeCurret DCP, a subsidiary of Internet Initiative Japan, said in their statement. Unlike stablecoins—which are privately issued cryptocurrencies typically pegged to fiat money—DCJPY is classified as a blockchain-based deposit currency fully backed at a 1:1 ratio by yen deposits. This means every unit of DCJPY in circulation will correspond to an equivalent amount of fiat yen held in reserve, ensuring stability and reducing risks associated with volatility. The planned launch of DCJPY places Japan Post Bank among the key players spearheading Japan’s transition into the era of digital finance. It also reflects broader government and industry efforts to strengthen the nation’s digital currency ecosystem in anticipation of the Bank of Japan’s potential issuance of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) in the future. With Japan’s ageing population increasingly turning to digital platforms and the financial sector under pressure to enhance efficiency, the introduction of DCJPY could accelerate the adoption of tokenised financial products and services in the domestic market. ($1 = 147.3300 yen)

KUALA LUMPUR, Clean energy services provider Samaiden Group Bhd has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Samaiden Sdn Bhd (SSB), has received a letter of award (LOA) worth RM290 million from Unique HEB Energy Sdn Bhd (UHESB) for a major renewable energy project in Hilir Perak. Samaiden said SSB will undertake engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning works for the development of a 95 megawatt alternating current large-scale solar photovoltaic power plant. According to Samaiden’s filing with Bursa Malaysia, the LOA covers the engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) works for a 95 megawatt alternating current (MWac) large-scale solar photovoltaic (LSSPV) power plant. The project falls under the LSS5 programme approved by the Energy Commission in December 2024, which aims to accelerate Malaysia’s transition to clean energy through large-scale solar adoption. The company noted that work on the project will officially commence following the execution of the LOA. Both UHESB and SSB are expected to finalise a detailed EPCC contract within 60 days of the LOA acceptance, or on an alternative timeline mutually agreed upon by both parties. Samaiden further highlighted that the contract award will not affect its share capital or shareholding structure. However, it is anticipated to strengthen the group’s earnings outlook and contribute positively to its financial performance over the duration of the project. The deal marks another significant milestone for Samaiden, underscoring its position as a key player in Malaysia’s fast-growing renewable energy sector. With the RM290 million contract, the group is poised to expand its portfolio of large-scale solar projects, supporting both national sustainability goals and long-term value creation for its stakeholders.

Mura Technology has announced its entry into Singapore with the development of a new advanced plastic recycling facility, marking a major step forward in its Asia expansion strategy. The move adds to Mura’s growing global network, which already includes operations under license by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation in Japan, a project being commissioned by LG Chem in South Korea, and its own flagship site in Wilton, Teesside, UK. Together, these facilities are expected to deliver a combined output capacity of 60,000 tonnes of liquid circular hydrocarbons annually by the end of 2025. The new plant will be located on Jurong Island within the Singapore Essential Chemicals Complex (SECC), on a site secured from PCS Pte. Ltd. (PCS). To support this regional growth, Mura has also established a Singapore office. Addressing Southeast Asia’s Plastic Challenge Southeast Asia is forecast to generate 56 million tonnes of mismanaged plastic waste per year by 2050, presenting both an environmental challenge and a resource recovery opportunity. Singapore, known for its leadership in trade, innovation, and circular economy practices, offers the ideal base for Mura to recycle both local and regional plastic waste into high-quality, circular feedstocks. Aligned with Singapore’s Zero Waste Masterplan, which targets a 70% overall recycling rate by 2030, Mura’s new facility is expected to process more than 60,000 tonnes of plastic annually, with potential expansion to 100,000 tonnes. Partnerships with local companies and the National Environment Agency will help ensure a steady supply of plastic waste from Singapore, supplemented by certified recovered feedstock from regional sources. Strategic Location and Technology Advantage Situated within PCS’s SECC, the facility will benefit from direct pipeline connections to customers, reliable utility access, and proximity to a skilled workforce. It will operate using Mura’s proprietary Hydro-PRT® technology, which breaks down plastic waste into valuable hydrocarbon products that can be used to create virgin-quality recycled plastics. Leadership Perspective Dr Steve Mahon, CEO of Mura Technology, said:“Southeast Asia is a critical region in the global fight against plastic pollution. With its high plastic consumption, rapid urbanisation and strong government commitment to sustainability, Singapore provides the perfect foundation for our first regional facility. This expansion marks a key milestone in our mission to accelerate the transition to a global circular plastics economy.” Expanding Global Footprint The Singapore project further strengthens Mura’s international presence. Its first commercial-scale site in Teesside, UK, is on track to begin operations by the fourth quarter of 2025, with more facilities planned worldwide to meet rising demand for circular plastic solutions.

JAKARTA, Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund Danantara announced Wednesday that it has signed a Head of Agreement with Shenzhen-based GEM Limited to jointly develop a High-Pressure Acid Leach (HPAL) smelter with an annual production capacity of 66,000 tons of nickel. The project is valued at around $1.42 billion. GEM, a global leader in green metallurgy and circular economy solutions, is well known for large-scale recycling of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and electronic waste. Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani said the partnership represents a major step in supporting Indonesia’s socio-economic transformation. “By working with a global pioneer in green metallurgy, we can help advance the government’s agenda for sustainable downstream mineral industrialization,” he said. The project is also expected to involve Vale Indonesia and other international partners. Each year, GEM processes more than 10% of China’s used EV batteries and e-waste, with a workforce of over 11,000 employees across China, South Africa, South Korea, and Indonesia. In Indonesia, the company has already invested in nickel-based new energy materials, industrial parks, research labs, and scholarship programs to develop metallurgical talent. GEM has also contributed $30 million to a joint research laboratory with the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s role as a regional hub for green metallurgy innovation and R&D.

SEOUL, Taihan Cable & Solution Co., South Korea’s second-largest cable manufacturer, announced that it has secured major contracts in Qatar with a combined value of 220 billion won (US$158 million), further strengthening its foothold in the Middle East power infrastructure market. Right side photo – provided by Taihan Cable & Solution Co. on Aug. 26, 2025, shows one of the company’s construction sites in the Middle East. In an official statement, the company confirmed that it has received a letter of award from Kahramaa, Qatar’s state-owned electricity and water authority, for a large-scale turnkey project worth 180 billion won. The contract involves expanding the Gulf nation’s transmission network to enhance power stability and support its long-term infrastructure plans. Additionally, Taihan revealed that earlier this month, it was awarded another project worth 40 billion won, also in Qatar, to build a high-voltage power grid designed to accommodate the country’s rising electricity demand, driven by economic growth and rapid urban development. These latest wins reflect Taihan’s growing partnership with Kahramaa, which dates back to 2008. Over the years, the company has consistently participated in numerous projects commissioned by the Qatari utility provider, showcasing its ability to compete effectively against leading global cable makers in one of the world’s most competitive energy markets. A Taihan spokesperson highlighted the significance of the contracts, noting that the Middle East continues to see a sharp rise in demand for power transmission and distribution infrastructure as governments invest heavily in energy diversification and urban expansion. “As demand for power infrastructure continues to grow throughout the Middle East, including Qatar, we will continue to strengthen our portfolio and expand into next-generation solutions such as high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable systems and submarine cable projects,” the company said. The new projects not only reinforce Taihan’s position in the Middle East but also align with its global strategy to expand its market presence beyond traditional cable supply into advanced energy infrastructure solutions.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia Debt Ventures Bhd (MDV) has approved RM122.65 million in financing for six technology-driven companies carrying out energy transition projects under the National Energy Transition Facility (NETF). Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang. MDV, operating under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti), said part of the financing—RM40.09 million—is earmarked for targeted incentives such as rebates and credit enhancements to lower project costs and improve bankability, subject to MDV’s assessment. Of the six approved companies, five focus on renewable energy solutions like solar and biogas, while one is dedicated to energy efficiency initiatives. Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang emphasized that MDV is strategically positioned to channel funding into impactful energy transition projects. “Mosti will continue to support NETF’s implementation, reflecting the Madani government’s commitment to sustainable development, industry collaboration, and positioning Malaysia as a regional leader in low-carbon innovation,” he said. MDV chairman Wong Chen added that the agency aims to accelerate renewable energy adoption by funding key energy transition projects, contributing to socio-economic progress. “Our priority is delivering tangible results aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap’s vision for a low-carbon future and addressing urgent climate challenges,” he noted. MDV plans to finance around 20 to 30 technology projects under the NETF, depending on individual project requirements. These initiatives are expected to cut carbon emissions, create new economic opportunities, and drive sustainable growth in Malaysia.

PETALING JAYA: CelcomDigi Bhd has invested a total of RM4.6bil capital expenditure (capex) out of its RM10bil investment commitment during the first five years post-merger as of the first half of this year (1H25), says chief executive officer Datuk Idham Nawawi. He said the total capex investment includes undergoing integration exercises to modernise the network for the past two and a half years since the merger of Celcom and Digi. CelcomDigi Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Idham Nawawi. Idham noted the results of this investment have created more job opportunities in the country’s digital and telecommunications ecosystem, through the construction of 18,000 network sites, 10,000 resellers and nearly 400 branded stores nationwide. “We are going to integrate all our IT systems. We have modernised 84% of our network and are in the middle of our IT consolidation and integration exercise,” he told the media after the launch of CelcomDigi’s CD:NXT flagship initiative at the CelcomDigi hub here yesterday. Earlier in his opening remarks, Idham said CD:NXT is the company’s long-term initiative over a period of eight to 10 years to produce over 5,000 young digital talents with the aim of providing a platform for young Malaysians to become capable digital leaders. “What we offer is not just ordinary artificial intelligence training, or something that can be learned from books or in a classroom – but practical experience and exposure in a very dynamic industry. “We estimate this initiative to be worth more than RM100mil, with a much larger and more meaningful economic multiplier effect on the country’s digital economy,” he said.

HONG KONG, Ricoh Hong Kong has launched the Ricoh InnoAI Program and set up the Ricoh InnoAI Center at Cyberport to support the growth of AI startups. The program will start with over HK$50 million in funding and provide local companies with access to advanced AI technology, business development support, and funding opportunities through the Ricoh Innovation Fund. Ricoh Hong Kong Announces Launch of Ricoh InnoAI Program. The new InnoAI Center will serve as Ricoh’s international AI hub, offering office space, technical resources, and collaboration opportunities for startups. The center will also connect Hong Kong enterprises with global markets, helping them expand internationally. Ricoh will support around 50 startups each year, providing mentorship, marketing, and sales resources to help commercialize their AI products. The program will also use Ricoh’s own AI technology, including enterprise large language models (LLMs) and AI-powered tools, to help businesses develop safer and more efficient AI solutions. Cyberport, home to more than 350 AI and data-focused startups, will work with Ricoh to strengthen Hong Kong’s AI ecosystem. This includes access to Cyberport’s AI Supercomputing Centre, which offers high-performance computing to support AI research and development. Ricoh said the initiative will not only accelerate the growth of local startups but also enhance Hong Kong’s position as a global hub for AI and innovation.

TAIPEI, Amazon Web Services (AWS), the cloud computing arm of Amazon.com Inc, has announced plans to invest more than US$5 billion (RM23.5 billion) over the next 15 years to establish a new cloud region in Taiwan. The investment underscores Taiwan’s growing importance as a digital hub in Asia, with AWS aiming to support the island’s innovation-driven economy, technology ecosystem and data sovereignty needs. The new AWS Asia Pacific (Taipei) Region will comprise three Availability Zones, each with independent power, cooling and physical security, enabling customers to build highly reliable and resilient applications. Amazon said the development will empower local businesses, start-ups, public sector agencies, and educational institutions to run workloads and securely store data within Taiwan, meeting growing demand for cloud services in areas such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, e-commerce, and financial services. “The new AWS Region in Taiwan will bring world-class cloud infrastructure closer to our customers, offering them greater choice and flexibility,” said Prasad Kalyanaraman, Vice President of Infrastructure Services at AWS. Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs welcomed the announcement, noting that the move is aligned with the country’s push towards digital transformation, cybersecurity enhancement, and fostering innovation in its semiconductor-driven economy. Industry analysts said the investment could further solidify Taiwan’s position as a strategic hub in the Asia-Pacific technology landscape, while also creating opportunities for talent development and local supply chain growth. AWS currently operates 105 Availability Zones across 33 geographic regions globally, with several more under development in countries including Malaysia, Thailand, and Israel. The Taiwan expansion comes at a time of intensifying competition among global cloud providers, as Microsoft, Google, and Alibaba Cloud also expand their footprints across Asia to tap into surging demand from enterprises and governments embracing digitalisation.