Energy & Technology

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

Charlene Ree CEO & Deric Wong CBO
Energy & Technology

EternityX Expands Global Presence as Leading Expert in Chinese Audiences

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

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

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

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

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.

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