Energy & Technology

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.

KUALA LUMPUR/BEIJING, China and Malaysia have begun preliminary discussions on setting up a rare earths processing plant, with sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional likely to partner a Chinese state-owned enterprise to build the refinery, according to people familiar with the matter. If the venture materialises, it would mark a major policy shift for Beijing, which has long restricted the export of rare earth processing technology to safeguard its dominance of the sector. In return for sharing its know-how, China is seeking access to Malaysia’s largely untapped rare earth deposits, aiming to curb competition from Australian producer Lynas Rare Earths, which operates a processing facility in Pahang, two Malaysian sources said. All four sources who spoke to Reuters requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the matter. Khazanah Nasional and Malaysia’s ministries of natural resources and trade did not respond to requests for comment. China’s State Council Information Office also did not immediately reply due to the National Day holiday. A Malaysian source cautioned that the plan faces hurdles, including doubts over whether Malaysia can supply sufficient raw materials for the plant. Two other sources highlighted environmental and regulatory challenges, noting that mining approvals require both federal and state-level clearances. Malaysia has previously ruled out rare earth mining in ecologically sensitive zones such as permanent forest reserves and water catchment areas. The proposed refinery would be capable of processing both light and heavy rare earths, two Malaysian sources said. These materials are critical for products ranging from smartphones and electric vehicles to clean energy technologies and defence equipment. Heavy rare earths are especially scarce, with some already facing supply shortages. Malaysia is estimated to hold 16.1 million metric tons of rare earth deposits but lacks the technology to develop them. The country has banned exports of raw rare earths to prevent resource drain, granting only a limited exception in 2022 for a pilot mining project to establish national guidelines. Australia’s Lynas, the world’s largest rare earth producer outside China, signed an agreement in May with Kelantan state for future supply of mixed rare earth carbonate, signalling efforts to build Malaysia’s role in the industry. In August, Natural Resources Minister Johari Abdul Ghani said China was ready to offer technical and technological support in rare earth processing, though President Xi Jinping wanted cooperation limited to state-linked firms to safeguard trade secrets. Discussions remain at an early stage, Johari added, but a successful deal would make Malaysia one of the few nations with access to both Chinese and non-Chinese processing technologies.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) has unveiled the Steel Industry Roadmap 2035, aimed at addressing overcapacity issues and advancing sustainability in the sector. Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said Malaysia is grappling with a sharp imbalance between supply and demand. Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said Malaysia is facing a significant imbalance between supply and demand. “By 2030, upstream capacity is projected to reach 40.8 million tonnes, while domestic demand is expected to be only 14.7 million tonnes. This gap highlights overcapacity, with underutilised assets, weak returns on investment, and eroded competitiveness and resilience,” he said in his keynote speech at the launch today. The roadmap outlines a strategy to stabilise, restructure, and transform the local steel industry in line with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the National Energy Transition Roadmap, and the Net Zero 2050 target. It introduces 15 strategies across three phases, beginning with a two-year stabilisation period. This phase includes measures such as managing overcapacity, restructuring licensing, tightening enforcement against illegal operators, securing domestic raw materials, and preparing for decarbonisation. From 2027 to 2035, the focus will shift to transformation, including accelerating carbon pricing mechanisms, developing low-carbon production infrastructure and standards, and reinvesting in new technologies to enhance capabilities. Beyond 2035, the roadmap envisions a fully green steel sector by 2050, driven by talent development and capital mobilisation to keep Malaysia’s steel industry competitive and aligned with net-zero commitments. Tengku Zafrul added that the roadmap also aims to contribute to Asean’s sustainability agenda. Malaysia has proposed a regional cooperation framework, including a shared database on production capacity and utilisation to improve transparency and guide responses to overcapacity, dumping, and transshipment. Other potential regional efforts include a common decarbonisation pathway, full monitoring, and harmonised green steel standards. “Our steel industry stands at a crossroads. The choices we make today will decide whether Asean’s steel sector becomes a driver of growth, resilience, and sustainability — or remains burdened by old challenges,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, Singapore-listed food processor Wilmar International Ltd — an 18.8%-associate of Bursa Malaysia-listed PPB Group Bhd — announced that the Indonesian Supreme Court has overturned its acquittal, along with those of two other palm oil giants, in a graft case tied to cooking oil export permits in 2021. In June, Wilmar deposited 11.88 trillion rupiah (about US$729 million or RM3.1 billion at the time) with the Indonesian Attorney General’s Office (AGO) as a “security deposit” while awaiting the court’s ruling on alleged misconduct between July and December 2021, during a nationwide cooking oil shortage. The deposit would have been returned if the earlier Central Jakarta Court decision was upheld but could now be forfeited partly or fully following the Supreme Court’s reversal. In a statement on Thursday, Wilmar confirmed that the Supreme Court ruled against the acquittals of Wilmar Group, Permata Hijau Group and Musim Mas Group after an appeal by the AGO. The appeal involved five of Wilmar’s subsidiaries — PT Multimas Nabati Asahan, PT Multi Nabati Sulawesi, PT Sinar Alam Permai, PT Wilmar Bioenergi Indonesia and PT Wilmar Nabati Indonesia — accused of causing state losses, making unlawful profits, and harming the business sector. According to the AGO, the alleged actions caused losses amounting to 12.3 trillion rupiah (around US$755 million). Wilmar said the full judgment, including the reasoning and any final award amount, has yet to be released. “While Wilmar respects the decision of the Indonesian Supreme Court, it maintains that the actions taken by the Wilmar Respondents during the cooking oil shortage were in compliance with prevailing regulations and made in good faith. A further announcement will follow once the formal judgment is issued,” the group said. The case comes after Wilmar in July denied separate allegations of selling adulterated rice. Earlier this month, PPB managing director Lim Soon Huat cautioned that, in a worst-case scenario, Wilmar could face up to RM600 million in financial impact if it loses its appeal, which could translate to about 45 sen per PPB share. However, he expressed optimism that the ruling would be more favourable and noted that no financial provisions have been made at this stage. Despite the uncertainty, Lim assured that PPB’s dividend policy remains unaffected. Wilmar continues to be PPB’s main profit contributor, accounting for RM992 million or 72.5% of its FY2024 profit before tax of RM1.33 billion.