Energy & Technology

Energy & Technology

CSA Group Opens Cutting-Edge EMC Testing Facility in Singapore to Strengthen Regional Capabilities

SINGAPORE: CSA Group has officially opened its state-of-the-art electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) laboratory in Singapore’s Science Park, marking a significant expansion of its testing, inspection, and certification services in Southeast Asia. The new facility, supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), is positioned to help manufacturers meet global compliance standards and gain faster access to international markets. Boosting Compliance and Market Readiness with Advanced Capabilities Strategically located within a hub for research and innovation, the facility is equipped with cutting-edge technologies designed to support a wide range of industries, including ICT, artificial intelligence, industrial systems, and medical devices. The new laboratory features: Advanced EMC Testing: Two high-tech semi-anechoic chambers capable of testing products in complex electromagnetic environments up to 10 metres, ensuring accurate and compliant EMC performance. Wireless Performance Testing: Enhanced capabilities for 4G, 5G NR (FR1), IoT systems, automotive electronics, and medical devices to verify uninterrupted, interference-free functionality. Electrical Product Testing: An upgraded electrical lab provides efficient safety compliance testing services tailored to global standards, with a localised approach for Southeast Asia. Cybersecurity Assessments: Support for manufacturers of connected devices to achieve compliance with global cybersecurity standards, addressing the growing demand for secure digital infrastructure. The facility also serves as CSA Group’s ASEAN headquarters, reinforcing its commitment to long-term growth in the region. Leadership Voices and Regional Impact “Singapore has established itself as a global hub for research, development, and technological innovation,” said David Weinstein, President and CEO of CSA Group. “With this expansion, CSA Group is better positioned to help businesses in the region meet evolving regulatory demands and bring their products to market more quickly.” Frances Hung, Senior Vice President of East and South Asia, added, “We are excited to deliver advanced testing and certification services to our customers in Singapore and across ASEAN. Our new facility supports regional innovation and helps companies meet both local and international standards.” EDB Chairman Png Cheong Boon welcomed the move, stating, “CSA Group’s expansion will create new job opportunities in wireless communications, cybersecurity, and electrical testing. The new EMC lab further strengthens Singapore’s role in accelerating product development and commercialisation.” Commitment Beyond Business To commemorate the launch, CSA Group hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and announced a charitable donation to the Children’s Cancer Foundation, underscoring its commitment to the communities where it operates. With this expansion, CSA Group reaffirms its role as a trusted partner in compliance testing, supporting innovation and market growth across ASEAN and beyond.

Energy & Technology

Govt Opens Railway Corridors to Telcos for Fibre Optic Expansion

PUTRAJAYA:  The government has approved a policy allowing licensed telecommunications companies to install fibre optic networks along railway corridors nationwide, ending the previous monopoly held by FiberRail Sdn Bhd. Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook announced that the Cabinet had greenlit the move via a memorandum he presented, enabling more industry players to support Malaysia’s digital infrastructure goals. YTL Communications Sdn Bhd has been selected as the first company under this liberalised framework, following a request for proposal (RFP) by the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC) in 2023. The contract will see YTL develop high-speed fibre optic infrastructure across 1,600km of rail tracks from Padang Besar to Johor Bahru and Tumpat, Kelantan. “This is not an exclusive right for any one party. It’s a strategic initiative to strengthen our digital infrastructure while unlocking new revenue for RAC,” said Loke at the RAC 2025 appreciation ceremony. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil also witnessed the signing of the Letter of Acceptance between the Ministry of Transport and YTL Communications. According to RAC, the initiative supports the national digital transformation agenda, facilitates broader telco access through open RFPs, and reduces dependency on government development funds. The revenue from wayleave agreements will be reinvested into Malaysia’s rail industry — including maintenance and upgrades of railway stations and rolling stock.

Energy & Technology, ESG

Indonesia and Turkey Strengthen Clean Energy Ties with Geothermal Collaboration

JAKARTA: In a significant move to accelerate the global clean energy transition, PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE) (IDX: PGEO) has entered into a Joint Study Agreement (JSA) with Zorlu Enerji Elektrik Üretim A.Ş., a leading Turkish energy firm. The agreement, signed in Ankara on April 10, was witnessed by Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, and Türkiye’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı. The signing took place during the Turkey-Indonesia CEO Roundtable Meeting, jointly hosted by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN Indonesia) and the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEIK). This collaboration represents a strategic milestone in intergovernmental cooperation on renewable energy development, particularly in geothermal exploration and technology. Under the agreement, both companies will jointly assess the feasibility of developing a geothermal power plant in one of Zorlu Enerji’s geothermal working areas in Turkey. This partnership is a direct follow-up to the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signed between Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and Turkey’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources during President Erdoğan’s state visit to Indonesia on February 12, 2025. Julfi Hadi, President Director of PGE, emphasised the strategic importance of this collaboration: “Our ambition is to build a clean, sovereign, and future-oriented energy ecosystem. Geothermal energy is an indigenous resource for both nations and plays a central role in achieving energy security and sustainability. This agreement is expected to catalyse technology transfer, foster a robust geothermal supply chain, and attract further investments into Indonesia’s renewable energy sector.” Driving Regional Leadership in Geothermal Energy Indonesia holds approximately 40% of the world’s geothermal reserves—an estimated 24 GW—positioning the nation as a global geothermal powerhouse. Recognising its strategic value, geothermal energy has become a cornerstone of Indonesia’s roadmap to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2060. With over four decades of operational experience, PGE is ramping up efforts to expand its installed geothermal capacity from 672 MW today to 1 GW by 2027, with a long-term goal of reaching 1.7 GW by 2034. The company has identified around 3 GW of potential reserves across 10 Geothermal Working Areas under its management. Zorlu Enerji, a key player in Turkey’s geothermal landscape, echoed the importance of the agreement as a shared commitment to advancing the global geothermal agenda. Beyond Energy: Paving the Way for Green Industry Innovation This cross-border collaboration also lays the groundwork for broader opportunities in green business innovation. Beyond power generation, both companies will explore downstream prospects in geothermal by-products, such as green hydrogen, silica, and carbon credits—paving the way for diversified and sustainable business models. The Joint Study Agreement marks a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and Turkey while demonstrating a concrete step toward global energy resilience and climate action.

Energy & Technology

Malaysian Tech Stocks Rally on US Tariff Exemption for Key Electronics

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian technology stocks continued their upward momentum for a third consecutive day on Monday, boosted by the US decision to exempt key consumer electronics and semiconductors from new tariffs. Following the announcement over the weekend, the Bursa Malaysia Technology Index surged as much as 5.4%, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the sector. Leading the gains was Inari Amertron Bhd (KL:INARI), a major semiconductor services firm, which jumped 17 sen or over 10% to RM1.83, making it the biggest mover on the index. The US exemption—temporarily sparing smartphones, computers, and other popular electronics from a fresh wave of tariffs—has provided much-needed relief to Malaysian firms with exposure to global supply chains and US consumer demand.

Energy & Technology, News

Fahmi Gives Telcos 5pm Deadline to Resolve Internet Issues or Face Penalties

TAPAH: Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has given all telecommunication companies until 5pm today (Sunday) to submit concrete solutions to ongoing nationwide internet access issues or face firm enforcement action. Speaking during a visit to the National Information Dissemination Centre (Nadi) in Air Kuning, Perak, Fahmi said he had instructed Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) executive chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din to ensure telcos respond promptly to complaints of poor connectivity. “Telcos are quick to act when it comes to collecting outstanding bills, but when it comes to addressing service complaints, it can take months. I’ve had enough,” said Fahmi. “If no comprehensive and immediate solutions are submitted by 5pm today, MCMC will begin taking enforcement measures starting tomorrow.” Also present were Perak Communications, Multimedia and NGO Committee chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi and Barisan Nasional candidate for the Ayer Kuning state by-election, Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir. Fahmi cited a drive test conducted by MCMC on 5 March, which revealed that many areas still fail to meet the Mandatory Standards on Quality of Service (MSQoS). The current minimum requirement of 7.5 Mbps will be increased to 10 Mbps in 2026. He noted that the internet access problem is widespread and not limited to Air Kuning, listing other affected areas including Belaga and Ulu Rajang in Sarawak, the new township of Serenia, outskirts of Tambun, Pangkor Island, and several Orang Asli settlements. Should telcos fail to resolve these issues, stricter enforcement – including heavier fines – will be imposed. Following amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act effective 11 February, penalties have significantly increased, with fines potentially reaching millions of ringgit. Separately, Fahmi advised social media users to remain cautious when posting or campaigning online during the Ayer Kuning by-election period, particularly on sensitive 3R topics (race, religion, royalty). “Individuals found guilty of posting extreme or 3R-related content may face fines up to RM500,000, compounds of up to RM250,000, or imprisonment. I urge all parties to campaign responsibly,” he said, adding that no complaints had been received so far. When asked about Perikatan Nasional (PN) supporters sharing caricatures mocking Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Fahmi responded: “If that’s their style of campaigning, so be it. We prefer to campaign based on facts, ideas, and tangible offerings – not insults and mockery.”–BERNAMA

Energy & Technology

OPPO Unveils Agentic AI Initiative at Google Cloud Next 2025

LAS VEGAS, US: OPPO articulated its strategic vision for Agentic AI at Google Cloud Next 2025, underscoring its strategy as a leader in AI experiences through in-house development and strategic collaboration with Google. “OPPO’s focus has always been on the user, and our goal is very clear: to lead innovation in AI experience and provide the best experience,” stated Jason Liao, President of the OPPO Research Institute. “We are continuously enhancing AI experiences through strategic collaborations with partners like Google Cloud, aiming to deliver Agentic AI capabilities to OPPO users.” At Google Cloud Next 2025, OPPO showcased AI Search, a powerful system-level AI tool in collaboration with Google Cloud, which empowers users to efficiently search and retrieve complex multimodal document information using natural language queries. Furthermore, OPPO highlighted its significant advancements and innovative features across AI Productivity, AI Creativity, and AI Imaging. Looking ahead, OPPO is actively exploring the next phase of Agentic AI experiences, with a focus on creating personalized and intelligent user experience. OPPO is developing a new user knowledge system to serve as a centralized repository for user data, addressing the challenge of information fragmentation on mobile devices. It is designed to learn and adapt from user activities, interests, data, and memories, to provide highly personalized AI experiences, driving progress towards a future vision of intelligent, AI-driven operating systems.     Earlier this year, OPPO announced its latest advancement in AI Security with the launch of AI Private Computing Cloud (PCC), which leverages Confidential Computing from Google Cloud. It provides a dedicated and secure environment, ensuring that AI data processing happens within a secure, isolated system with end-to-end encryption to keep all AI interactions private.   Leveraging cutting-edge innovation and a steadfast commitment to enhancing user experience, OPPO is collaborating with key partners like Google Cloud to accelerate the development and adoption of AI technology, ultimately redefining the daily experience of AI across devices and services. By the end of 2025, OPPO aspires to empower nearly 100 million users worldwide to harness the transformative potential of OPPO AI. Hashtag: #OPPO The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About OPPO OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone – “Smiley Face” – in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 70 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

Energy & Technology

MYEG and Beitou IT Innovation to Establish China-ASEAN AI Flagship Lab

KUALA LUMPUR: MY E.G. Services Bhd (MYEG) has entered into a strategic agreement with Guangxi-based Beitou IT Innovation Technology Investment Group Co Ltd to establish the Malaysia-China Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation and Cooperation Centre, designated as the Flagship China-ASEAN AI Lab. This collaboration coincides with a Government-to-Government Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Malaysia and China to enhance AI development, marking a significant step forward in cross-border tech cooperation. According to MYEG’s statement, the new lab—housed in Zetrix Tower, Petaling Jaya—will serve as a central hub for AI research and innovation between China and ASEAN nations. The initiative is led by MYEG and supported by key Chinese and Malaysian technology leaders, including: Deepseek and Tabatics Drone companies DJI and Leju Robot Huawei Technologies Malaysian IT services provider Heitech Padu Bhd The lab will focus on integrating blockchain, generative AI, and robotics, with a special emphasis on culturally localised applications and services. “This initiative is in line with the vision of both governments to deepen collaboration in the digital economy,” said MYEG. The first service to be launched under this initiative is the mutual recognition of national digital IDs. Beginning with China’s Guangxi Province, Malaysian citizens will be able to use their MyDigital ID for identity verification, particularly for financial services and access to tourist attractions in the region. Likewise, Chinese nationals will enjoy similar digital identity support in Malaysia. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Lan Tianli, Governor of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. This partnership reflects an accelerating trend in AI-driven regional integration, with Malaysia positioning itself as a digital bridge between ASEAN and China.

Energy & Technology

Cohesity and Google Cloud Join Forces to Fight Cyber Threats

Cohesity, a leader in AI-powered data security, has announced an expanded strategic partnership with Google Cloud to help organisations enhance their cyber resilience and extract greater value from business data. The collaboration aims to equip businesses with advanced tools to detect threats earlier, accelerate response, and ensure rapid recovery in the event of cyber incidents — particularly critical as enterprises face increasing threats such as ransomware. According to industry estimates, businesses lose an average of US$540,000 per hour of downtime, highlighting the urgency of such capabilities. Key Features of the Expanded Partnership: Google Threat Intelligence Integration: Now embedded in the Cohesity Data Cloud, enabling rapid detection of emerging threats through insights derived from 1,100+ annual investigations and 450+ tracked threat actors. Joint Incident Response with Mandiant: Cohesity CERT and Google’s Mandiant will provide integrated incident response, from securing backups to recovering critical infrastructure, reducing recovery time and minimising business disruption. Cloud Isolated Recovery Environment (CIRE): Customers can pre-establish a secure recovery setup in Google Cloud, ensuring a trusted recovery path post-incident. Integration with Google Security Operations: Enhancing visibility and data protection by combining Cohesity’s data security with Google’s security tools for a unified defence strategy. Enhancing Data Value with AI To address growing data complexity, Cohesity is also integrating with Google’s AI technologies: Cohesity Gaia x Google Agentspace: Gaia, Cohesity’s AI agent, will now operate in Google’s Agentspace to provide smarter, secure search and task automation across distributed data environments. Google Gemini x Cohesity Gaia: The integration of Gemini AI models will enhance Gaia’s enterprise search capabilities, enabling deeper data analysis and insight generation. “Organisations need solutions that not only protect data but unlock its strategic value,” said Stephen Orban, VP at Google Cloud. “Our deepening partnership with Cohesity offers exactly that.” Lim Hsin Yin, VP of Sales – ASEAN at Cohesity, added that businesses in the region are increasingly turning to AI to improve cyber resilience, while Vikram Kanodia, VP of Technology and Cloud Alliances, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to keeping customers secure and data-driven. The incident response integration and Google Security Operations connection are available now. Broader integrations for cyber resilience and data insights will roll out by summer 2025. For more information, visit Cohesity’s website.

Energy & Technology, News

BNM, BOT Ink MoU to Enhance Cyber Resilience in Finance

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Bank of Thailand (BOT) have formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen bilateral cooperation in cybersecurity and the mitigation of digital fraud threats across their respective financial sectors. The MoU lays the groundwork for enhanced collaboration between the two central banks, with a focus on information sharing, capacity building, and the exchange of best practices. It underscores a shared commitment to fortifying cyber resilience and improving the security infrastructure of both nations’ financial ecosystems. The agreement was signed by BNM Governor Dato’ Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour and BOT Governor Dr. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput. Dato’ Seri Abdul Rasheed stated that BNM remains steadfast in its efforts to strengthen the resilience of financial institutions and protect consumers from evolving cyber threats. “This partnership with the Bank of Thailand will significantly enhance our collaborative efforts in cybersecurity and digital fraud prevention,” he said. Dr. Sethaput echoed this sentiment, highlighting the growing need for cross-border collaboration in the face of increasingly complex cyber threats. “Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen the integrity and resilience of our financial systems, ultimately benefiting consumers in both countries,” he noted. This strategic alliance comes amid rising concerns over cyber risks in the region’s financial sector, signalling proactive measures by both central banks to address emerging challenges and ensure financial stability.

Energy & Technology

AI Advancing Rapidly, Risks Deepening Divides – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR:  Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has cautioned that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) could exacerbate existing inequalities if left unchecked. Speaking at the ASEAN Investment Conference 2025, held alongside the 12th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting (AFMGM) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Anwar stressed the urgent need for balanced digital progress. “AI is progressing at lightning speed. If this asymmetrical digital growth is not managed carefully, it risks deepening social and economic divides,” he said in his keynote address. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that investments in digital literacy, infrastructure, empowerment and governance develop in tandem. “The digital economy holds immense promise, but it also presents significant disparities. While digital transformation is advancing across the region, it remains uneven,” he said. Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, emphasised the importance of deeper regional integration, particularly in digital payments. He noted that ASEAN currently enjoys digital payment linkages between Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. “Later today, we will launch the extension of payment linkages between Malaysia and Cambodia. The goal is to eventually cover all ASEAN nations to help drive intra-ASEAN trade and tourism,” he added. Earlier, Anwar officiated the ASEAN Investment Conference 2025, which was also attended by Finance Minister II, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.–BERNAMA

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