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Energy & Technology

Energy & Technology, News

BNM, BOT Ink MoU to Enhance Cyber Resilience in Finance

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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

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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

Charlene Ree CEO & Deric Wong CBO
Energy & Technology

EternityX Expands Global Presence as Leading Expert in Chinese Audiences

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SHANGHAI: EternityX, a leading AI-powered marketing platform specialising in Chinese audience engagement, is accelerating its global expansion strategy with a sharpened focus on empowering brands to navigate and connect with Chinese consumers across APAC, MENA, and Europe. In a rapidly globalising economy where digital engagement and cross-border trade continue to evolve, EternityX positions itself as a strategic bridge between East and West. The company is committed to helping international brands become China-ready—equipping them with the insights, strategies, and digital capabilities needed to build long-term relevance in the Chinese market and beyond. As China continues to play a pivotal role in global commerce, initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and ongoing EU-China dialogues are reinforcing the importance of cross-border collaborations. These relationships are particularly critical across industries such as luxury, hospitality, finance, and digital commerce. Empowering Brands Through Data and Cultural Intelligence “Engaging Chinese audiences in today’s global economy requires more than market access—it demands a data-driven strategy that reflects the evolving trade landscape and digital ecosystems,” said Charlene Ree, CEO of EternityX. “Our platform provides the infrastructure and cultural intelligence businesses need to scale effectively—whether they’re Chinese brands going global or international brands looking to strengthen their foothold in China.” Ree emphasised EternityX’s approach of leveraging behavioural AI and market foresight to guide brands through the growth cycle of finding the right audience, delivering the right message, and choosing the right channel. “It’s not just about conversions—it’s about building meaningful connections that lead to lasting brand trust.” Strategic Leadership and Global Growth EternityX’s expansion is backed by a leadership team with deep-rooted expertise in Chinese media, digital transformation, and cross-border marketing. The company maintains a strong presence in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, and the MENA region. Recent strategic hires, including Deric Wong as Chief Business Officer (Global), Jean Kniss Loh as Chief Marketing Officer (Global), and Max Lee as Global Partner for China Media Integration, reflect EternityX’s commitment to delivering strategic growth and innovation in key markets. As global demand for Chinese consumer engagement intensifies, EternityX is well-positioned to lead the way—driving measurable outcomes for brands aiming to achieve sustainable growth and market leadership.

Energy & Technology

Intel Seeks Revival in TSMC Partnership Following $18.8 Billion Hit

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Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) have reached a tentative agreement to form a joint venture that would operate Intel’s chip manufacturing facilities, according to a report by The Information, citing two sources familiar with the discussions. As part of the deal, TSMC—the world’s leading contract chipmaker—will reportedly acquire a 20% stake in the newly formed entity. The development comes amid pressure from the White House and the U.S. Department of Commerce, which have been urging both companies to find a resolution to Intel’s ongoing operational struggles. Neither Intel nor TSMC commented on the report, and the White House did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment. In March, Reuters reported that TSMC had approached Nvidia, AMD, and Broadcom to invest in a similar joint venture, following a request from the U.S. government to assist in revitalising Intel’s faltering chip business. Intel, which recently appointed industry veteran and former board member Lip-Bu Tan as CEO, has been seeking a turnaround after failing to capitalise on the AI-driven semiconductor boom. Despite investing heavily in expanding its manufacturing capabilities, the company has struggled to deliver the level of service offered by competitors like TSMC—resulting in delays and failed tests, according to former executives. The company posted a net loss of US$18.8 billion for 2024—its first annual loss since 1986—largely due to significant impairments. Its stock plummeted 60% last year, while the S&P 500 rose more than 23%. However, shares have since rebounded and are up nearly 12% in 2025. TSMC, meanwhile, recently announced plans to invest an additional US$100 billion in the U.S., including the construction of five new chip fabrication plants.–REUTERS

Energy & Technology, Investment & Market Trends, News

UMC’s $5B Investment Boosts Singapore’s Chip Industry

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TAIPEI: United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC), Taiwan’s second-largest contract chipmaker, has inaugurated a new 22-nanometer semiconductor fabrication plant in Singapore. The facility aims to address rising demand and enhance supply chain resilience. Located in Pasir Ris Wafer Fab Park, adjacent to UMC’s existing plant, the new fab has commenced pilot production and is expected to scale up to mass production by 2026, UMC President S.C. Chien stated during the opening ceremony. UMC plans to invest up to US$5 billion in the initial phase, expanding the plant’s monthly production capacity to 30,000 wafers and generating 700 new jobs. Once fully operational, UMC’s total output in Singapore will exceed 1 million wafers annually, catering to industries ranging from smartphones and automobiles to data centers. “Singapore’s strategic position reinforces supply chain resilience for our customers,” Chien remarked. He added that the facility is equipped for 22 nm and 28 nm processes, which remain state-of-the-art for various applications. The 22 nm node, for instance, is currently the most advanced process used for display driver chips, which enhance smartphone battery life and visual performance. Meanwhile, UMC dismissed a recent Nikkei Asia report suggesting it was considering a merger with U.S.-based GlobalFoundries Inc. As of 2024, UMC held a 4.7 percent share of the global pure-play wafer foundry market, ranking fourth worldwide, according to TrendForce. In comparison, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) led the industry with a 67.1 percent market share, followed by Samsung Electronics (8.1 percent) and China’s Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. (5.5 percent).

Energy & Technology, News

Qualcomm Acquires MovianAI, Vietnam’s GenAI Unit Under Vingroup

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HO CHI MINH CITY : US tech giant Qualcomm has announced the acquisition of MovianAI, the generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) subsidiary of Vietnam’s Vingroup, for an undisclosed sum. MovianAI, founded in 2024, was previously a division of VinAI, another firm within the Vingroup ecosystem. This acquisition is expected to accelerate Qualcomm’s development of advanced AI solutions for smartphones, PCs, and software-defined vehicles. The deal follows Nvidia’s December 2024 acquisition of VinBrain, a Hanoi-based AI healthcare company, as part of a growing trend of US tech firms investing in Vietnam’s AI sector. Vietnam has been strengthening its commercial ties with the US, particularly as its US$123.5 billion trade surplus with Washington in 2024 has come under scrutiny and may lead to potential tariffs under the Trump administration. VinAI, initially launched as Vingroup’s research institute, became a standalone subsidiary in 2021 with a charter capital of 425 billion dong (S$22.3 million). VinBrain, which focused on AI-driven healthcare solutions, was established with an investment of 126.6 billion dong.

Energy & Technology

Awantec Closes SKIN Chapter with US$45M Settlement, Shifts Focus to AI and Cybersecurity Growth

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AwanBiru Technology Bhd (Awantec) has announced the resolution of its long-standing legal dispute with the Government of Malaysia through a Consent Judgment valued at US$45.38 million (RM201.45 million). The settlement formally concludes all legal matters surrounding the terminated Sistem Kawalan Imigresen Nasional (SKIN) project, providing clarity and allowing the company to move forward with its strategic priorities. This development comes almost a year after the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled in favour of Awantec’s subsidiary, Prestariang Skin Sdn Bhd, ordering the government to pay US$52.15 million (RM231.5 million) for the unlawful termination of the SKIN contract in 2019. The SKIN concession, awarded in August 2017, was a 15-year agreement for the development, implementation, and maintenance of a modernised immigration and border control system to replace the legacy infrastructure used by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. The contract was valued at US$788 million (RM3.5 billion), contingent on full private financing by Prestariang Skin. The project was scrapped following the 2018 general elections, which resulted in a change of federal administration after more than six decades under Barisan Nasional. Azlan Zainal Abidin – Awantec, CEO  Commenting on the settlement, Awantec CEO Azlan Zainal Abidin said, “This resolution brings certainty and closure, allowing us to refocus on our core growth strategies. The one-off payment not only strengthens our cash flow position but also enables us to resolve outstanding obligations linked to the SKIN project.” With the SKIN dispute now behind it, Awantec is sharpening its focus on high-growth areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation services. The company continues to strengthen its portfolio through strategic partnerships, including its role as a Google Premier Partner and collaborations with international tech players like Skillsoft and Sage. One of its latest initiatives is Awantax, an e-invoicing platform accredited by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), which supports the government’s push towards mandatory e-invoicing compliance. In the public sector, Awantec recently secured a one-year extension under Malaysia’s Cloud Framework Agreement (CFA), reaffirming its position as a key player in national digital infrastructure projects. Additional contract wins—such as its involvement in MyGovUC 3.0 and projects with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE)—further cement its role in enabling digital transformation and workforce development. With legal distractions now settled, Awantec is poised to accelerate growth in digital services and technology solutions across both public and private sectors.

Energy & Technology

RM1.5 Billion Boost for MSME Digitalisation: MDEC and Partners Roll Out National Support Fund  

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The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital and various implementation partners, has unveiled a national funding initiative totalling approximately RM1.5 billion (US$338 million) to drive digital adoption among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. This funding pool—formed through a network of public-private collaborations involving government agencies, financial institutions, digital banks, peer-to-peer (P2P) financing platforms, and local service providers—is designed to provide MSMEs with access to digital tools, advisory support, and digital financing to strengthen their business operations. Gobind Singh Deo – Minister of Digital of Malaysia Announcing the initiative, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo described the programme as a people-first transformation agenda championed by the Madani government. “This digitalisation initiative is designed to equip MSMEs with innovative technologies that can boost productivity and improve operational efficiency,” he said. “It represents a holistic national effort to ensure MSMEs are not left behind as the economy becomes increasingly digital.” The programme, known as the Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI), brings together ecosystem players through formal partnerships to streamline MSME access to financial support, digital solutions, and expert guidance for sustainable growth. Anuar Fariz Fadzil – MDEC, Chief Executive Officer MDEC Chief Executive Officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil emphasised that the initiative directly addresses the challenges faced by MSMEs, including limited access to digital tools, financing gaps, and uncertainty about where to begin the digital transformation journey. “Our goal is to provide practical, scalable solutions to real business challenges,” Anuar said. “Through tailored support, strong partnerships, and accessible e-invoicing options—including affordable and freemium solutions powered by the Peppol framework—we’re making it easier for MSMEs to adopt digital practices and scale their businesses both locally and internationally.” As part of the BDI rollout, 21 MDEC-recognised e-invoicing service providers will offer cost-effective and accessible e-invoicing solutions to help MSMEs comply with the government’s upcoming digital tax administration reforms. Rizal Bin Nainy – SME Corp, Chief Executive Officer Meanwhile, SME Corp. Malaysia CEO Rizal bin Nainy highlighted the importance of the collaboration with MDEC in bridging the digital divide. “Our joint efforts aim to raise awareness and ensure MSMEs are ready to embrace digital transformation,” he said. “By working together, we’re building a more targeted and inclusive ecosystem that provides MSMEs with the tools and support they need to thrive.” The initiative underscores Malaysia’s broader digital economy agenda, enabling small businesses to become more competitive, resilient, and future-ready. For further details on the Business Digitalisation Initiative, visit https://mdec.my/bdi.

Energy & Technology

Microsoft’s $10.9B Cloud Investment to Create 37,575 Jobs in Malaysia

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KUALA LUMPUR: Microsoft is set to reshape Malaysia’s digital economy with the launch of its first-ever hyperscale cloud region, Malaysia West. Located in Greater Kuala Lumpur and slated to go live in Q2 2025, the new cloud infrastructure marks a pivotal step in the company’s long-term commitment to advancing the nation’s cloud and AI capabilities. According to the IDC “Microsoft Cloud Dividend Snapshot” report, Microsoft, alongside its partners and cloud-enabled businesses, is projected to generate $10.9 billion in new revenues and create 37,575 new jobs in Malaysia by 2028. Among these, 5,700 will be skilled IT positions, strengthening Malaysia’s digital workforce and positioning the country as a regional hub for AI and cloud innovation. A Milestone in Microsoft’s 33-Year Journey in Malaysia As a trusted technology partner in Malaysia for over three decades, Microsoft continues to fuel the country’s transition toward a digital-first economy. Once operational, the Malaysia West cloud region will offer businesses access to Microsoft’s full suite of cloud solutions, enabling them to scale operations, enhance efficiency, and build digital resilience. Critically, the cloud region will also ensure compliance with Malaysia’s data residency regulations, allowing organizations to store and manage data securely within the country while adhering to government standards. Investing in Talent and AI-Readiness Microsoft’s commitment extends beyond infrastructure. In May 2024, Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a $2.2 billion investment to accelerate Malaysia’s cloud and AI ambitions. A key pillar of this effort is the AI for Malaysia’s Future (AIForMYFuture) initiative, launched in December 2024, which aims to equip 800,000 Malaysians with AI skills by the end of 2025. This builds upon the Bersama Malaysia initiative, which has already provided digital skills training to over 1.53 million Malaysians. Empowering Malaysia’s Digital Future Laurence Si, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia, emphasized the transformative impact of the new cloud region: “The Malaysia West cloud region is more than just infrastructure—it’s a catalyst for innovation, enabling businesses to harness AI and cloud technology at scale. With this investment, Malaysia is poised to become a leading hub for cloud and AI growth in Southeast Asia.” Dr. Andrew Lau, Director of Strategic Programs for Microsoft Malaysia, echoed this sentiment: “As Malaysia advances its AI and cloud ecosystem, the new cloud region will empower businesses to expand seamlessly while providing global enterprises with a strategic entry point into the Malaysian market. This initiative will strengthen the country’s digital competitiveness, solidifying its role in an AI-powered future.” With this landmark investment, Microsoft is reinforcing its role as a key driver of Malaysia’s digital transformation, equipping businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world. For more details on the Malaysia West cloud region, visit: aka.ms/MalaysiaCloudRegionPlaybook.

Energy & Technology

BYD Shares Soar on 5-Minute EV Charging Breakthrough

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BEIJING: Shares of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD soared to a record high today following the unveiling of its groundbreaking battery technology, which promises to charge an EV in the same time it takes to refuel a petrol car. The new battery and charging system, dubbed the “Super e-Platform”, boasts peak charging speeds of 1,000 kW, enabling vehicles to travel up to 470 kilometres after just five minutes of charging. BYD founder Wang Chuanfu said the innovation aims to “fundamentally solve users’ charging anxiety.” “Our goal is to make EV charging as fast as refueling a petrol vehicle,” he stated at the launch event last night. Following the announcement, BYD’s Hong Kong-listed shares surged over six percent to hit a record high on Tuesday morning before paring some gains. A Step Ahead of Tesla The new technology places BYD ahead of rival Tesla, whose Superchargers currently peak at 500 kW—only half the speed of BYD’s latest innovation. Alongside the Super e-Platform, BYD introduced two new EV models—the Han L sedan and the Tang L SUV—which will be the first to feature the cutting-edge system. To support the rollout, BYD also revealed plans to build over 4,000 ultra-fast charging stations across China, reinforcing its aggressive push for EV infrastructure dominance. BYD’s Explosive Growth The announcement comes as BYD continues its rapid expansion, with February sales surging 161% to more than 318,000 electric vehicles. Meanwhile, Tesla faced a 49% drop in Chinese market sales over the same period. Nio & CATL Bet on Battery Swapping In a separate development, fellow Chinese EV maker Nio signed a deal with battery giant CATL to collaborate on a passenger car battery swap network. Battery swapping offers an alternative to ultra-fast charging, but infrastructure costs and standardization remain significant hurdles. Under the agreement, CATL will invest up to 2.5 billion yuan (RM1.5 billion) into Nio’s network. With BYD pushing the limits of charging speed and Nio betting on battery swaps, China’s EV race is heating up like never before. — AFP

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