Energy & Technology

KUALA LUMPUR: The global aviation biofuel market will reach US$51.23 billion by 2028 from $32.64 billion in 2022, with an expected compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.64 per cent. According to the Research and Markets report, the global aviation biofuel market is gaining significant attention as the aviation industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the environmental impact of air travel. The report said several factors drive the market for aviation biofuel. Firstly, there is a growing awareness of the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation sector. Biofuels offer a way to achieve this goal by providing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel option. Governments and regulatory bodies are also playing a crucial role in promoting the use of biofuels through incentives, mandates, and policies that encourage the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels. To note, the aviation biofuel, also known as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), is derived from renewable sources such as biomass, cooking oil, algae, and other organic materials. It is considered a viable alternative to traditional jet fuel due to its lower carbon emissions and potential for reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Another factor driving the growth of the aviation biofuel market is the increasing demand for air travel. As the global population continues to grow and economies develop, the demand for air transportation is expected to rise. This, in turn, will lead to higher aviation fuel consumption. Biofuels offer a way to meet this growing demand while reducing the carbon emissions associated with air travel, the report noted. Further, technological advancements and research and development efforts are also contributing to the growth of the aviation biofuel market. Scientists and engineers are continuously working on improving the production processes, feedstock options, and overall efficiency of biofuels. This has led to developing advanced biofuel technologies that offer higher energy density, better performance, and compatibility with existing aircraft engines. However, the Research and Markets report noted that the aviation biofuel market still faces several challenges. One of the main challenges is the scalability of production. Scaling up biofuel production to meet the demands of the aviation industry requires significant investment in infrastructure, feedstock cultivation, and refining facilities. Additionally, biofuel costs are currently higher than traditional jet fuel, making it less economically viable for widespread adoption. “Despite these challenges, the global aviation biofuel market is expected to grow in the coming years. “The increasing focus on sustainability, coupled with government support and technological advancements, will drive the adoption of biofuels in the aviation industry,” the report noted. Continued research and development efforts and collaborations between industry stakeholders will be crucial in overcoming the challenges and realising the full potential of aviation biofuels in reducing carbon emissions and creating a more sustainable aviation sector, it said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Maxis Bhd and Chinese multinational technology corporation Huawei Technologies Co Ltd have successfully staged the first 5G-Advanced technology trial in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. The 5G-Advanced Trial Showcase included a live speed test to demonstrate 5G-Advanced’s capabilities to achieve ultra-fast peak speeds of up to 8Gbps. 5G-Advanced, also known as 5.5G, promises up to 10 times improvement in speed, connected devices, and latency compared to 5G. The event was officiated by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. Also present was the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din. The event was held at KLCC The Place the first venue in the country to host a 5.5G technology trial. “This 5.5G trial demonstrates the potential of Malaysia’s telecommunications sector in contributing meaningfully to advancing our communications connectivity. “We hope more industry players will pioneer innovative technologies to help Malaysian enterprises move up the value chain through next-generation commercial and industrial solutions. “This will position Malaysia as a front-runner in telecommunications globally,” Mohamad Salim said. The showcase highlighted the potential of 5G-Advanced technology through next-generation connectivity and digital solutions, leveraging its ultra-high speeds, greater capacity for simultaneously connected devices, and ultra-reliable low latency. The demonstration booths featured interactive applications of the technology, including low latency live streaming of various Kuala Lumpur city centre views, live 3D content, and immersive augmented reality (AR) experiences. Maxis chief executive officer Goh Seow Eng said the telecommunication company is proud to have achieved a first for the nation and Southeast Asia with its 5.5G trial. “The potential of this technology is immense as it can power intelligent solutions across industries and economies. “We look forward to exploring this technology and developing solutions that will benefit industries and enterprises and advance our nation’s digital ambition,” he said. Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Simon Sun said as a leading global information, communication and technology (ICT) player and an advocate for end-to-end 5.5G solutions, Huawei has been working on research and development (R&D) and verification of key 5.5G technologies and business cases. “Today, we bring the latest 5.5G technology and launch Malaysia’s first 5.5G showcase. “This will show the world that Malaysia leads the region in digital infrastructure, proving its enabling environment and digital facilities are among the best to attract and retain foreign investments. “Huawei Malaysia is firmly committed to walking alongside the nation in its digital transformation journey,” he said. 5.5G’s advanced capabilities can support digitalisation, automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT) across many sectors. These capabilities will facilitate the digital upgrade of core industries such as high-end manufacturing, automotive and smart transportation, and enable visual communication through 3D and extended reality (XR). In addition, 5G-Advanced will support the development of affordable IoT solutions. Following the event, the 5.5G trial will be showcased on the global stage as part of the Malaysia Pavilion supported by the MCMC at this year’s Mobile World Congress (MWC), which will be held on 26-29 February 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. Maxis is one of the leading Malaysian companies that will be representing the nation at MWC 2024, the world’s largest and most influential connectivity event.

KUALA LUMPUR: Taiwan-based Starlux Airlines has placed a firm order for five all-new Airbus A350F freighters and three more Airbus A330neo widebody aircraft. Starlux Airlines chief executive officer Glenn Chai said the airline has continuously nurtured the cargo market since its inception, capitalising on the strategic advantages offered by Taiwan’s geographical location. With this order, he said that Starlux will become the first Taiwanese airline to operate the next-generation A350F widebody freighter. “In an era of climate change, the A350F has unbeatable efficiency in terms of fuel burn, CO2 emissions, and economics, offering significant energy-saving and carbon reduction benefits. “It meets customer requirements for carbon reduction and aligns with Starlux’s environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) plan to achieve zero emissions by 2050. “Additionally, the three new A330neos will strengthen our fleet advantage and provide greater flexibility for passenger operations,” he said in a statement. The agreement was signed at the Singapore Airshow by Starlux chairman KW Chang and Airbus chief executive officer of commercial aircraft business Christian Scherer. “We love working with Starlux Airlines in building and strengthening its fleet. Operating the latest generation Airbus single-aisle and widebody aircraft brings the airline enormous benefits. “It significantly reduces fuel consumption and carbon emission and offers unrivalled levels of technical commonality, benefits in maintenance and training. “The A350F, the only new generation large freighter, will fit seamlessly into this all-Airbus fleet and enable Starlux Airlines to compete effectively with the leading players in key cargo markets,” Airbus executive vice president of sales, commercial aircraft Benoît de Saint-Exupéry said. Starlux Airlines operates an all-Airbus passenger fleet that already includes the A350-900, A330neo and A321neo. Starlux Cargo will operate the A350F on some of the world’s busiest cargo routes. Currently under development, the A350F can carry a payload of up to 111 tonnes and fly up to 4,700 nautical miles/8,700 kilometres at a significantly lower cost than any other freighter available today. The A350F will enable Starlux Cargo to serve all heavy cargo markets worldwide. Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent-XWB97 engines, the aircraft will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 40 per cent compared to the older 747F and is at least 20 per cent more efficient than its competitor. The A350F features the industry’s largest main deck cargo door, with fuselage length and capacity optimised around the industry’s standard pallets and containers. Over 70 per cent of the airframe is made of advanced materials, resulting in a 46-tonne lighter take-off weight than the competing derivative. The A350F is also the only freighter aircraft that will fully meet the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) enhanced CO₂ emissions standards, coming into effect in 2027. Meanwhile, the additional order for the A330neo will see Starlux Airlines continue to build one of the most modern and efficient passenger fleets, offering the highest levels of in-flight comfort. The incremental order will boost its A330neo fleet from four to seven, with the aircraft features a premium two-class cabin comprising 28 business-class seats and 269 economy-class seats. Airbus widebody aircraft are especially popular with airlines in the Asia-Pacific, with nearly 900 in-service and 190 to be delivered. At the end of January, the latest generation A350 family had secured over 1,200 orders from 57 customers worldwide, including 50 for the A350F from nine leading cargo airlines. In the mid-size category, the A330neo family continues to gain momentum, with nearly 300 firm orders from 28 customers.

KUALA LUMPUR: Subsidiaries of China-based hydrogen technology solution provider Hydrexia Holding Ltd and the Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation in Malaysia have reached a commercial agreement for certain hydrogen application solutions. Under the terms of the agreement, Hydrexia Sdn Bhd will provide UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd with its containerised mobile hydrogen refuelling stations (HRSs) to refuel the hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to be showcased at the current Toyota’s Beyond Zero event in Malaysia between February 20 and 28. Beyond Zero is a showcase of a multi-pathway approach towards carbon neutrality. It stands as a significant pledge and initiative by Toyota towards environmental sustainability and the journey towards carbon neutrality. Through this event, Toyota demonstrates its commitment to providing environment-friendly mobility for all, contributing to a net positive carbon impact and fostering a sustainable future. Hydrexia has worked closely with UMW Toyota in Malaysia to provide the comprehensive hydrogen application solution needed for this event. Hydrexia was chosen to be a partner based on considerations of its solution and equipment safety, functionality, and ability to deliver quickly. “We are excited and honoured to work with UMW Toyota on this project, where we can leverage our technological and solution strengths to add value to Toyota’s journey towards carbon neutrality,” Hydrexia global sales vice president and the general manager for Southeast Asia George Gan said in a statement. As China’s leading hydrogen technology solution provider, Hydrexia has recently expanded its footprint to overseas markets with business operations in Southeast Asia, Europe, the US, and Australia. The company provides technology solutions for hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and end-use applications. “Going forward, we will continue to work with Toyota to serve its needs for hydrogen application solutions in ASEAN countries,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Canadian software company BlackBerry Ltd and US-based SANS Institute recently established a new partnership in Malaysia, offering SANS training courses through the soon-to-be-opened BlackBerry Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (CCoE) in Kuala Lumpur. To help bolster national cybersecurity capacity in Malaysia, the partnership will offer advanced technology and training to help upskill Malaysia’s cyber-defenders, focusing on critical areas like forensics and incident response. This new partnership with SANS marks the first significant milestone in BlackBerry’s landmark cybersecurity deal with the Malaysian government, announced at the APEC Summit in San Francisco in November 2023. In addition to Malaysia’s deployment of the full suite of trusted BlackBerry cybersecurity solutions, BlackBerry is opening its CCoE in the first half of 2024 to help Malaysia educate, train and upskill cyber professionals and grow the cybersecurity ecosystem. SANS Institute director of strategy and business development, Asia Pacific Matthias Chia said that as a leading provider of cybersecurity education, SANS knows first-hand that training, upskilling, and establishing a culture of continuous learning and innovation is crucial for any nation to build adequate cyber-resilience in our complex digital age. “We are proud to partner with BlackBerry in Malaysia to offer our globally accredited training programs to help upskill cyber-workforces and enhance technical capabilities among cyber professionals, but also train new students wishing to carve out a career in this exciting field,” he said in a statement. In addition to the SANS programs, BlackBerry will offer its curriculum at the new CCoE, as well as partner with Malaysian universities and other institutions to offer a wide range of courses, certifications, and other programs to help build skilled cybersecurity workforces in Malaysia and across the Indo-Pacific region. BlackBerry Cybersecurity senior vice president of strategy, business development and operations John Dimitropoulos said that with nearly 40 years of experience in protecting global governments from cyber-attacks, espionage and data leaks, BlackBerry has seen global demand for cyber skills and expertise explode, particularly in specialist areas such as machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). “We are pleased to announce that SANS Institute’s training courses will be offered through our BlackBerry Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Malaysia, delivering upon our shared goal to establish a globally competitive skills and learning ecosystem in Malaysia and the Indo-Pacific region for years to come,” he said. Now open for registrations, the SANS Secure Malaysia 2024 inaugural training will take place from March 11–16, and the first featured course will be SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling.

KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd (PCG) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Sarawak Petchem Sdn Bhd (SPSB) to conduct a joint feasibility study to develop a low-carbon ammonia and urea plant in Bintulu, Sarawak. Under the terms of the MoU, the two companies will conduct a joint comprehensive study on the technical and commercial aspects, among other considerations, in meeting the rising demands for cleaner energy solutions by tapping into the renewable energy potential within the region. The MoU was signed by SPSB managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Mohammad Ibrahim and head of finance and commercial Abdul Razak Ali. PCG was represented by its managing director and chief executive officer Mazuin Ismail and the head of strategic planning and ventures Ir Yaacob Salim. The event was witnessed by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang  Openg, together with SPSB chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Abdul Aziz Datuk Husain, Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) chairman Tan Sri Mohd Bakke Salleh and Petronas president and group chief executive officer Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik. “The collaboration to jointly study the potential development of a world-scale low-carbon ammonia and urea plant is very much welcomed. “This plant will be capable of producing ammonia with a very low carbon footprint. It is indeed a strategic initiative to capitalise on opportunities within the global energy transition market,” said Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari. Abdul Aziz said this collaboration allows SPSB to capitalise on synergies, optimise costs, and share the risks, thereby maximising value for Sarawak and Malaysia. “This further exemplifies our prudent business practices and collaborative mindset. This joint development initiative serves as a catalyst for economic development in Sarawak, driving job creation and fostering sustainable growth in line with the objectives outlined in the Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030),” he said. Mazuin welcomed this opportunity to work with SPSB, further strengthening PCG’s working relationship with the Sarawak state. “This is potentially PCG’s first low-carbon project and underlines our commitment to drive the sustainable transformation within our value chain. “This collaboration with SPSB aligns with PCG’s and the nation’s sustainability objectives and facilitates our further expansion into the Southeast Asian urea market. “Additionally, it presents an opportunity to leverage Sarawak’s renewable energy resources while complementing our efforts in developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR: French aircraft maker Airbus SE and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to conduct comprehensive studies on the carbon emissions of the airline group. The agreement was signed by MAG group chief sustainability officer Philip See and Airbus chief sustainability officer Julie Kitcher in Singapore ahead of the air show there. This significant step signifies the initiation of a two-year partnership between the two entities, dedicated to exploring various avenues for decarbonisation within MAG’s operations. The MoU between Airbus and MAG encompasses five key areas of focus. These include sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), carbon dioxide removal (CDR), assessment of financial implications associated with carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction, forecast and scenario planning and joint advocacy and communication efforts. A joint working group, comprising representatives from Airbus and MAG, has already been established and has been engaged in extensive deliberations on diverse decarbonisation strategies tailored to MAG’s unique requirements. Philip said this study with Airbus would strengthen the momentum MAG has on making its aviation units more sustainable. “Since the launch of MAG’s Sustainability Blueprint in 2021, the airline group has been committed to promoting socio-economic development and achieving net zero carbon emission by 2050. “This collaboration with Airbus is part of that initiative, and through the study, MAG will be better equipped to deliver on its environmental responsibilities and empower the global communities it serves,” he said. Julie said Airbus is committed to pioneering sustainable aviation, and this MoU showcases the aircraft maker’s commitment to increasing the development and adoption of decarbonisation tools such as SAF and CDR. “Airbus and Malaysia Airlines have a longstanding relationship, which will deepen when we celebrate the delivery of their new widebody fleet of A330neo later this year. “This agreement will provide an excellent foundation not only for MAG’s sustainability roadmap but also for Malaysia and the wider ASEAN region,” she said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Smart mobility provider ACO Tech Sdn Bhd (ATSB) has signed a memorandum of collaboration (MoC) with United Kingdom-based Geno Group Ltd and the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics & IoT Institute (MARii) to explore the use of blockchain solutions for Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Among the blockchain solutions explored are smart contracts, digital traceability management of supply chain, tokenomics solutions and privacy protection technologies to complement ATSB’s solutions for e-mobility service platform (EMSP). This initiative can ensure data privacy and ownership, enable data monetisation, and ultimately benefit strategic investors through long-term sustainable investments. Present at the MoC signing were ATSB chief executive officer Li Pu, MARii chief executive officer Azrul Reza Aziz and Geno Group chief executive officer Zhang Yi Ian. Li Pu said the growth prospects of the mobility sector in Malaysia are positive, thanks to the government’s support and progressive national policies. “As a leading smart mobility solutions provider, ATSB is ready to share our knowledge and expertise and support all stakeholders in achieving national goals. “We are confident collaborations such as ours with MARii and Geno Group are the way forward in accelerating and expediting a comprehensive and conducive EV ecosystem for Malaysia, with an emphasis on security. “By addressing challenges and capitalising on opportunities, Malaysia can position itself as a leader in the EV revolution in Southeast Asia,” he said in a statement. The EMSP is the foundational layer of the government’s overarching connected mobility vision, which will help accelerate the development of EV infrastructure in the country. The collaborative expertise and capabilities of ATSB, Geno Group and MARii will effectively address concerns associated with owning an EV, such as the scarcity of charging ports and inconsistent charging rates. The utilisation of blockchain technology solutions empowers EV manufacturers, service providers, owners and users to engage more interactively through a tamper-proof decentralised ledger system. This approach aims to reduce costs, enhance user experience and confidence, and establish seamless tracking and maintenance records. Additionally, it facilitates peer-to-peer energy and charger-sharing, ensuring transparency throughout the entire lifecycle of products and services. This alliance is in line with the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 as well as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). The government aims to achieve 20 per cent of electrified vehicles (xEV) by 2030, 50 per cent by 2040 and 80 per cent by 2050. This agreement paves the way for the sector to become the first to leverage blockchain technology industry-wide in Malaysia. It will also assist the Government in realising the National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2020 by laying a solid foundation for the industry to be able to scale through the development of next-generation vehicles (NxGV), including EVs. It will also help create a national EV-ready infrastructure through Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Blockchain as a Service (BaaS). Azrul Reza said MARii’s collaboration with ATSB, a joint venture between Proton Holdings Bhd, ECARX Holdings, Altel Communications Sdn Bhd, and Geno Group, marks a significant step forward in shaping the future of Malaysia’s EV ecosystem. “By exploring blockchain solutions, we are not only addressing current challenges in the EV sector but also laying the groundwork for a secure and scalable infrastructure aligned with the National Automotive Policy 2020. “By synergising our capabilities, we aspire to set new industry standards, promoting sustainable practices and user-centric innovations,” he said. Geno Group chief executive officer Zhang Yi Ian said this initiative signifies the first industrial-grade application of a blockchain solution. “The primary goal is to facilitate a transformative shift for participating enterprises towards a service-focused model. “This strategic move is aimed at enhancing engagement with end-user customers, enabling earlier, deeper, and more enduring interactions,” he said. ATSB, Geno Group, and MARii are committed to the active exploration of viable technologies towards the national connected mobility vision.  

KUALA LUMPUR: National automaker Proton Holdings Bhd (Proton) is experiencing positive sales growth in Brunei, jumping 87 per cent with 789 Proton vehicles sold in 2023 from 422 units in 2022. In a statement, the automaker said the positive performance pushed the brand up to fifth overall in the sales table and garnered a market share of 5.4 per cent in Brunei, up one spot and an increase of 2.2 per cent over the previous year. Total industry volume (TIV) for the country closed at 14,640 units for 2023, up from 13,000 units for 2022. The Proton X50, the B-segment sports utility vehicle (SUV), leads sales for all Proton models in Brunei, with 476 units sold in 2023, making up approximately 60 per cent of total Proton vehicle sales and driving the model up to third overall in its market segment. To note, the Proton X50 has been the best-selling Proton X-series model since its introduction in October 2020. Over 100,000 units have rolled off the assembly line at Proton’s modern factory in Tanjong Malim, which is a testament to its popularity with customers both in Malaysia and overseas. Proton director of international sales division Steven Xu said the popularity of the Proton X50 in Brunei can be attributed to clear communications about its value, features, and brand equity. “Proton worked closely with our importers, PAD Motors, to promote the model’s competitive price and features over its rivals while offering finance packages to make ownership easier. “This was then bolstered by our on-ground activities to promote the Proton brand, which was assisted by the success of the X50 in Malaysia that helped build the confidence of Brunei customers,” he said. Other Proton models were also ranked in the top 10 of their respective segments in Brunei in 2023 due to their promotional and branding efforts. The Proton Persona and Proton Iriz were ranked sixth and eighth for B-segment cars, while the Proton X90 was ranked seventh for D-segment SUVs despite having been on sale for less than half a year. Using the success of 2023 as a platform, both Proton and PAD Motors are confident of achieving more than 1,000 units for Brunei in 2024. Key to achieving the goal is the introduction of the all-new Proton S70, which is due to occur before the end of February. The country is the first international market to receive the model, and 15 units were shipped there last month ahead of its official launch. “For 2024, Proton is confident of achieving more growth in Brunei. “With continued strong interest in the Proton X50 and other models, as well as the introduction of the Proton S70, we target breaking through the 1,000-unit barrier at the end of the year,” Xu said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Minetech Resources Bhd’s (MRB) wholly-owned subsidiary, Minetech Construction Sdn Bhd (MCSB), has extended the contract with Able Return Sdn Bhd (ARSB) and Damar Consolidated Exploration Sdn Bhd (DCE) for waste removal, ore delivery, and associated works for the Selinsing gold mine project. This renewal extends the partnership for an additional 36 months, starting from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026, with a contract value of RM230.0 million. MRB executive chairman Abang Abdillah Izzarim said this contract with ARSB and DCE is a significant milestone for the company. “It not only reaffirms our leading position in the industry but also aligns with our strategic vision for growth and excellence. “We are committed to leveraging our expertise and capabilities to further contribute to the success of the Selinsing gold mine project, ensuring value creation for all stakeholders involved,” he said in a recent statement. MRB is a civil engineering specialist, bituminous products manufacturer and an emerging player in the solar energy space. To note, the Selinsing gold mine’s operations and the extended contract align with MRB’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This alignment underscores the company’s dedication to sustainable mining practices, community engagement, and governance standards that not only ensure compliance but also aim to positively impact the surrounding environment. Nestled in Malaysia’s central gold belt, the Selinsing gold mine spans 150.3km, encompassing the Selinsing, Buffalo Reef, Felda Land, Peranggih, and Famehub properties, located 158km north of Kuala Lumpur. The mine boasts a gold processing plant and essential infrastructure, readily accessible from all properties. As of January 31, 2024, MRB’s share price closed at RM0.14, signifying a market capitalisation of RM258.7 million.