Events

Events

CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 Leads the Charge in SME Growth and Digital Transformation

KUALA LUMPUR: The CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 kickoff event in Kuala Lumpur ended on a high note today, marking a significant milestone in empowering SMEs across Malaysia to embrace digitalisation, transformation, and innovation. The event, officiated by Yang Berhormat Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, saw an impressive turnout of close to 1,000 attendees, including government representatives, industry experts, SME owners, and entrepreneurs.  CTOS, Malaysia’s largest private credit reporting agency, successfully organised the 3rd annual SME Biz Day, spearheaded by its CTOS for Business division. Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to SME growth, CTOS is playing a role as a key driver for the business ecosystem by partnering with industry leaders and subject matter experts to provide invaluable support and insights for Malaysian SMEs. This collaboration aimed to equip businesses with the tools and strategies needed to remain competitive and resilient in an ever-evolving business landscape. Through this event, CTOS reinforced its role as a key partner and enabler of SME success.   Yang Berhormat Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, who officiated the event, remarked, “Today, we find ourselves in a dynamic and competitive market that presents opportunities, and challenges. For businesses in Malaysia to rise to the occasion, digitalisation is key. Together, let’s build a future where Malaysian SMEs are not only competitive, but also leaders in the global digital field. But before we aim for the skies, let’s get the basics right – by ensuring we are all aligned with the nation’s digital aspiration.” Kevin Loh, Interim Group Chief Executive Officer of CTOS Digital Berhad, added, “In today’s era, digitalisation plays a pivotal role—not only in delivering a seamless experience to your customers, but also in unlocking your potential to scale regionally and globally. We believe that our economy will only thrive when our business communities thrive as well. In line with Malaysia’s national agenda to digitalise and strengthen the SME sector, we have created this platform to bring together key government agencies, industry associations, successful entrepreneurs, and our technology partners—so that, together, we can provide SMEs with the insights, tools, and support they need, driving them to digitalise, transform, and innovate.”   Empowering SMEs through Digitalisation, Transformation, & Innovation This year’s event emphasised the importance of SMEs adapting to digitalisation and technology to unlock wider market opportunities — across the region and globally.   In its first panel discussion titled Scaling SMEs: Unlocking Growth in Capital, Finance, Digital & Global Expansion, industry leaders from SME Corp, MATRADE, MDEC and SAMENTA shared their expertise on how SMEs can leverage capital, finance, and digital tools to expand their business reach beyond Malaysia.    The session emphasised the importance of collaboration and partnership in overcoming challenges frequently faced by SMEs. This includes embracing the gig economy when digitalising by leveraging expert partners to manage various business needs efficiently. By capitalising on each other’s strengths, SMEs can streamline operations, focus on core activities, and enhance their overall productivity, ultimately leading to business growth.   The second panel discussion, Winning Through Agility: Lessons from Successful Entrepreneurs, was a highlight of CTOS SME Biz Day 2025. Esteemed entrepreneurs including business owners from Mydin, BloomThis, Montigo, ZUS Coffee, Anjoe Raw Beaute shared their insights on navigating the dynamic business landscape with agility.    The session shed light on how the entrepreneurs started their businesses from the ground up and championed their brands through various digitisation strategies by tapping into social media and e-commerce platforms. Attendees gained valuable insights into building a brand that resonates with today’s fast-paced and digitally-savvy customers. During the event, Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ), co-host of Keluar Sekejap, and Lee Shin Mei, COO of CTOS Data Systems, also led an engaging sharing session that captivated the audience. KJ highlighted the importance of resilient leadership in running an SME, especially given the unique challenges SMEs face in today’s unstable economy. He emphasised the necessity for leaders who can adeptly balance hands-on management with strategic, big-picture thinking. Such leaders must be capable of navigating uncertainties to ensure that SMEs can thrive even in the most challenging conditions.   Expert Insights from Leading Industry Figures Attendees of this year’s SME Biz Day had the opportunity to gain valuable insights from key speakers and visit booths hosted by partners including LHDN, AutoCount, AWS, CIMB, Maybank Islamic, MOCHI Technologies, Pos Malaysia, Salesforce, Samsung, U Mobile, Unifi Business, and Zoho.   Join us in Penang, Johor & Kuching CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 has set a new benchmark for SME events in Malaysia, providing a comprehensive platform for businesses to connect, learn, and grow. CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 will continue its roadshow in Penang (12 June), Johor (9 July), and Kuching (19 August). For more information on SME Biz Day, visit https://ctoscredit.com.my/business/ctos-sme-biz-day. For more information on CTOS and its initiatives, visit http://www.ctoscredit.com.my/.

Events, News

GamBit Group Launches Hybrid Asset Trust (H.A.T) at Malaysia 50+ Expo 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: GamBit Group today unveiled its pioneering Hybrid Asset Trust (H.A.T) at the Malaysia 50+ Expo 2025, marking a significant leap forward in the evolution of estate planning and wealth management for Malaysians across all generations. H.A.T is Malaysia’s first estate planning solution that seamlessly integrates traditional assets — such as property and equities — with digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and tokenised holdings. This innovative platform enables Malaysians to manage and safeguard their entire portfolios with greater ease and security, reflecting the country’s increasingly digital financial landscape. At the launch ceremony, Datuk Clifford Hii, Group Chief Executive Officer of GamBit Group, highlighted the vision behind H.A.T: “At GamBit, we believe that everyone deserves access to comprehensive, future-ready wealth management tools. With H.A.T, we are bridging the gap between conventional and digital assets, making estate planning relevant and accessible for today’s investors and future generations.” The Hybrid Asset Trust is supported by the GamBit Consortium, which includes Digital Trustees Berhad and a Securities Commission Malaysia-licensed digital asset custody service. This collaboration ensures H.A.T operates within a robust regulatory framework, offering clients confidence and peace of mind. Making Comprehensive Wealth Management Accessible With a low minimum entry point of RM10,000, H.A.T is designed to make estate planning accessible to a broader demographic, particularly younger, tech-savvy Malaysians who are increasingly active in digital investments. According to industry projections, Malaysia’s digital asset market is expected to reach US$296.7 million in revenue by 2025, with surveys revealing that 64% of retail investors currently hold digital assets and 69% plan to increase their exposure. In contrast to traditional wealth management solutions that often overlook digital asset planning, H.A.T provides a fully integrated platform, addressing growing concerns over digital asset security and inheritance. It ensures that wealth across both asset classes can be effectively managed, protected, and passed on to future generations. Addressing Critical Gaps in the Market Many Malaysians have historically lacked access to secure, comprehensive tools that encompass both traditional and digital assets. As a result, families are often left grappling with inaccessible or lost digital wealth following the demise of an asset holder. H.A.T addresses this critical gap by offering a regulated solution that ensures asset continuity and legacy protection in today’s dynamic financial environment. Supporting Holistic Aging at Malaysia 50+ Expo 2025 The launch of H.A.T at the Malaysia 50+ Expo 2025, themed “re:imaging aging, Embrace the Future,” reinforces GamBit Group’s commitment to empowering individuals to embrace aging with confidence. The Expo, dedicated to promoting healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives for seniors and future retirees, provided a fitting platform to introduce H.A.T’s inclusive wealth management solutions to a wide audience. GamBit Group intends to continuously enhance H.A.T by introducing new features, building strategic partnerships, and expanding its reach to ensure all Malaysians have access to modern, secure, and inclusive estate planning services. To learn more about H.A.T or explore GamBit Group’s full range of services, visitors are encouraged to visit the Group’s booth at the Malaysia 50+ Expo 2025 or reach out for a personalised consultation via https://www.gambit.com.my/.

ESG, Events

TotalEnergies ENEOS Powers Samsung Electronics’ Green Future with Major Solar Installation in Vietnam

SINGAPORE:  TotalEnergies ENEOS has launched its largest rooftop solar power project in Vietnam, installing a nearly 28 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the Samsung Electronics HCMC CE Complex in Ho Chi Minh City. This ambitious initiative marks a significant milestone in the company’s renewable energy portfolio. The project, which will see the installation of over 45,000 solar PV modules, is set to generate more than 40,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually. Once completed, it will supply 26% of Samsung Electronics’ onsite operations with green energy, while also reducing 26,000 tons of CO₂ emissions each year. In line with Samsung’s commitment to the RE100 initiative, which advocates for the use of 100% renewable electricity, this collaboration underscores the company’s ongoing dedication to sustainability. By sourcing green electricity for its operations, Samsung not only advances its environmental goals but also promotes sustainability within its workforce and broader community. Ingrid Jaumain, Zone Director for TotalEnergies Distributed Generation Asia Pacific, joined by Choonki Kwon, President of Samsung Electronics HCMC CE Complex, and Vo Van Hoan, Deputy Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City’s People Committee, attended a ceremony marking the awarding of the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) to TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Projects Vietnam Project Co. Ltd. This marks a pivotal step in the industrial decarbonisation effort, aligned with Vietnam’s national sustainable development goals. Choonki Kwon shared: “This project goes beyond energy generation. It is the start of a broader transformation, where technology not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters the sustainable development of people and society.” For Alexandru Buzatu, Director of TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Distributed Generation Asia Pacific, the project is a testament to the company’s expertise in accelerating the clean energy transition across Southeast Asia. “We are proud to support Samsung’s power needs in Vietnam, helping them achieve their clean energy targets while reinforcing our commitment to sustainability in the region.” With TotalEnergies ENEOS at the helm of this green energy initiative, the partnership is set to deliver not only a sustainable energy solution for Samsung but also a positive environmental impact for the local community and beyond.

Events

ProPak Asia 2025 Set to Drive the Processing and Packaging Industry into the Future

KUALA LUMPUR: ProPak Asia, the region’s number one international trade event for  Food, Drink & Pharmaceutical Processing & Packaging Technology, will bring together leading global  manufacturers, industry leaders and highlight the latest innovations and technologies at its 2025  showpiece event at BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand from 11-14 June, 2025.  The event serves as a hub for stakeholders to share and exchange knowledge, experiences and ideas to  foster collaboration among industry professionals, which in turn will generate value across diverse  industry zones.  ProPak Asia 2025, the 32nd edition of the acclaimed platform, also functions as a key venue for trade  and investment negotiations and partnership building among manufacturers, distributors and buyers of  all sizes. These collaborations seek to promote business growth and technology advancements that  benefit local and global industries.  Themed ‘Carbon-Neutral Pathways to a Sustainable Processing and Packaging Ecosystem’,  ProPak Asia 2025 looks to develop sustainable strategies that reduce or offset emissions to achieve  carbon dioxide neutrality across all stages of production, processing and packaging.  To generate awareness of the main event, its organiser Informa Markets held the ProPak Asia 2025  International Roadshow@Malaysia at the The Pavilion Room, The RuMa Hotel and Residences to  empower local processing and packaging businesses to capitalise on trade and investment opportunities  offered by cross-border partnerships between Malaysia and Thailand.  The event gathered industry professionals eager to gain in-depth knowledge into strategic sourcing,  regulatory navigation and other aspects of the industry that propel business growth and export potential.  The roadshow featured presentations by GlobalData PLC and the Thai Chamber of Commerce, along  with industry briefings.  Ms. Kotchasorn Tocharoentanapol, Deputy Event Director – ProPak Asia, Informa Markets said:  “Our roadshow acts as a prelude to ProPak Asia 2025 and aspires to inform and enlighten attendees on  what awaits them in Bangkok. The main event will provide guests from Malaysia and across the world the  chance to connect with new business partners, enable them to take in automation and technological  advances from major global manufacturers and facilitate insights into the trends shaping the industry  today and driving it into the future.”

ESG, Events

Bursa Malaysia Hosts Earth Week to Empower Sustainability Across Markets and Society

KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia Berhad has launched its three-day Earth Week celebration, from 22 to 24 April, to mark Earth Day with a series of targeted engagements aimed at driving sustainability awareness among capital market participants and the broader public. Themed around collective climate action, the event features workshops, exhibitions, and expert dialogues designed to catalyse environmental progress across all levels of society. Tailored Sustainability Programming The initiative kicks off with the Bursa Malaysia x RHB ESG Series 2, a closed-door session for industry leaders and ESG specialists, focusing on decarbonisation strategies for Malaysia’s economic sectors. The second day spotlights internal sustainability efforts through a partnership with WWF-Malaysia, offering practical climate actions for Bursa employees in support of its emission reduction goals. The final day, 24 April, will open its doors to a wider audience with a dual focus: A PLC Transformation Workshop for public-listed companies on managing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. The ECO Carnival, a public event packed with exhibitions, educational experiences, and interactive displays to inspire greener lifestyles. Highlights from the ECO Carnival   EV Test Drives: Attendees can test drive and ride electric vehicles, including the BMW iX2, BMW CE04, and the Blueshark R1 smart electric scooter. 25+ Exhibitor Booths: Showcasing green technologies, clean energy innovations, and sustainable living solutions. Visitors can also learn about Bursa’s financial products and connect with brokers. Sustainability Talks and Seminars: A curated series of talks on solar energy, waste transformation, and other low-carbon solutions. Panel on Sustainable Investing: Held in collaboration with Universiti Utara Malaysia, this 3:30pm session will explore ESG investing trends, challenges faced by PLCs, and evolving opportunities in Malaysia. “Our aim is to foster collective progress towards a more sustainable economy and society,” said Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed, CEO of Bursa Malaysia. “Earth Week is our call to action – a way to rally stakeholders at every level to drive meaningful environmental change.” The ECO Carnival is open to the public on Thursday, 24 April, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at Bursa Malaysia’s Annexe Building, Bukit Kewangan, Kuala Lumpur. Admission is free, and early attendees stand a chance to redeem a special gift. For more information, visit Bursa Malaysia’s website.

Events, Investment & Market Trends

ASEAN Investment Conference 2025 Set to Catalyse Regional Growth and Sustainability

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will host the ASEAN Investment Conference (AIC) 2025, an engagement platform to connect capital and unlock ASEAN opportunities. Aligned with the core principles of inclusivity and sustainability, the conference reflects the priorities of Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. Hosted by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) in collaboration with strategic partners, AFFIN Group, CGS International Securities Malaysia (CGS MY) and RHB Banking Group (RHB), AIC 2025 will take place in Kuala Lumpur from 8 – 9 April 2025. Under the theme ‘Connecting Capital, Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainability’, AIC 2025 will emphasise ASEAN’s regional connectivity and unity as essential drivers for sustained growth. The conference will showcase the region as a leading investment destination and a compelling, sustainable asset class. The conference will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who will also launch the ASEAN Simplified ESG Disclosure Guide for SMEs in Supply Chains. High-level attendees include Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Minister of Finance II, Malaysia, H.E. Chee Hong Tat, Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance, Singapore and Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Malaysia. The conference is expected to bringing together around 400 attendees, including leading policymakers, investors, financiers, business leaders and thought leaders from across the ten ASEAN member states and the ASEAN+3 region, including key financiers from Japan, China and Korea, AIC 2025 will serve as a catalyst for cross-border collaboration and unlocking the region’s vast potential.   The SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi said, “ASEAN’s position as the world’s fifth largest economy, with a GDP exceeding USD3.3 trillion and over 600 million people, underscores its growing influence on the global stage. With a robust annual growth averaging 5%, high saving rates exceeding 30% of GDP, and a young population – 60% of whom are under 35 – ASEAN offers a compelling investment proposition. As ACMF Chair, we recognise the crucial role that ASEAN capital markets play in driving sustainable growth, fostering innovation and attracting global investments.” “AIC 2025 aims to further cement ASEAN’s standing as a premier investment destination, spotlighting it’s dynamic opportunities and fostering deeper collaboration to unlock the region’s immense potential for inclusive and sustainable growth.”   Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah, President & Group Chief Executive Officer of AFFIN Group, said, “AFFIN Group is proud to be part of AIC 2025, a forum where capital, ideas and policy converge to shape the region’s economic future. Our participation reflects the Group’s commitment to driving regional resilience through purposeful collaboration, capital connectivity and sustainable growth. As we commemorate 50 years of building trust, empowering businesses and enhancing lives, we remain focused on redefining the future of banking through our AFFIN Axelerate 2028 (AX28) Plan, anchored on the pillars of Unrivalled Customer Service, Digital Leadership, and Responsible Banking With Impact.” “The recent MoU with MUFG Bank (Malaysia) Berhad marks a significant milestone in our ambition to catalyse cross-border opportunities and strengthen ASEAN’s financial ecosystem. This enables us to mobilise institutional partnerships, deepen regional integration and unlock new investment flows across ASEAN. Looking ahead, AFFIN Group will continue to support businesses and institutions through tailored solutions, financial innovation and long-term value creation — helping shape a more inclusive, future-ready ASEAN economy.”   Azizah Mohd Yatim, Chief Executive Officer of CGS International Securities Malaysia said “CGS MY has been leveraging our strong regional presence, deep market understanding, and China linkages to facilitate intra-ASEAN business and investment opportunities; and for businesses looking to grow beyond its borders, we serve as a bridge for businesses and investments to access ASEAN’s largest trade partner.” “ASEAN has a well-developed capital market and large sophisticated retail and institutional base and in these are exciting times, we see immediate opportunities in pipeline building for initial public offerings and positioning the ASEAN asset class as a fundamental inclusion in any investment portfolio. CGS MY looks forward to continue playing a vital role as a facilitator and intermediary that brings to the table best-in-class business and investment ideas and opportunities for mutual advantage.” Kevin Davies, Chief Executive Officer/ Managing Director, RHB Investment Bank, said “RHB Banking Group is committed to positioning ASEAN as a competitive and sustainable investment destination by connecting global investors to the region’s diverse growth opportunities. Through our deep market expertise, strong investor relationships, and innovative solutions, we aim to facilitate cross-border capital flows and unlock the region’s potential in key sectors such as green finance, technology, and infrastructure.” “Our participation in the ASEAN Investment Conference reflects our dedication to advancing sustainable finance and fostering greater regional market integration, ensuring ASEAN remains a dynamic hub for global investment destination.” Key discussions of the two-day event include discussions on digital transformation, sustainable finance, infrastructure development and capital market opportunities across ASEAN. Panels and presentations will explore critical policy frameworks, investment strategies, regulatory reforms, and best practices to strengthen regional competitiveness and economic resilience. For more information on ASEAN Investment Conference, visit aic25.com.

Events

MUFG N0W Sarawak Drives Renewable Power & Growth in Asia

MALAYSIA: MUFG Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (MUFG), gathered over 100 business leaders, policymakers and industry experts and partners to its MUFG N0W conference in Kuching, Sarawak.   MUFG N0W, or Net Zero World, is the bank’s flagship regional networking and thought leadership platform for marshalling collective responses from the private and public sectors to the challenges and opportunities of Asia’s sustainable development. This year’s session in Kuching follows the success of the inaugural MUFG N0W in Malaysia last March.   Hosted jointly by MUFG’s ESG finance team for APAC and its Malaysian subsidiary, the event was attended by distinguished guests, including Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr.) Abdul Aziz bin Dato Husain, Chairman of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim bin Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). Industry leaders in sustainable energy, finance and technology also joined in lively discussions on advancing green power and future decarbonisation strategies.  Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr.) Abdul Aziz, in his keynote speech, emphasised the agency’s key role in supporting Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 and its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050: “In partnership with international collaborators, including Japan, SEDC is leading initiatives in green hydrogen innovation, positioning Sarawak as a frontrunner in sustainable energy.   “SEDC is dedicated to adopting advanced technologies and global partnerships to ensure Sarawak’s future as a leader in clean energy and sustainability,” he added. Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim bin Sikh Abdul Majid in his keynote speech, said: “Malaysia’s green transformation is not just an aspiration—it is an imperative. Through our whole-of-nation approach across key stakeholders, our partnership with MUFG, and the commitment of stakeholders like Sarawak SEDC and Sarawak Energy, we are building a sustainable future that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship, while addressing the energy trilemma of affordability, energy security and environmental sustainability.  “MIDA is committed to assist you and we are ready to provide support, from project conceptualisation to implementation. We invite you to engage with us to explore how we can facilitate your green investment journey in Malaysia,” he added. With a longstanding presence in Malaysia spanning close to 70 years, MUFG has actively engaged with corporate clients to understand their sustainability aspirations and collaborate on transactions ranging from green financing and sustainability-linked loans to green trade. MUFG Malaysia was twice awarded Best Sustainable Bank (International) by FinanceAsia in 2023 and 2024. MUFG’s commitment to Sarawak’s growth agenda has also seen it participate in the state’s  budget conference last December. This was the first-ever state budget conference in Malaysia, outlining Sarawak’s latest strategic growth initiatives and policies, with MUFG  actively facilitating discussions on public-private partnerships in unlocking the state’s green opportunities.  Last week, the bank also signed a MoU with AFFIN Bank, majority-owned by Sarawak, pledging to collaborate in areas ranging from Malaysia-Japan business ties and green transformation.  Motohide Okuda, MUFG Malaysia’s Chief Executive Officer and Country Head of Malaysia said: “MUFG’s support of Sarawak’s growth ambitions is perfectly aligned with our broader commitment to Malaysia, and we look forward to leveraging our ESG financing expertise and regional network to foster collaborations that bolster Sarawak’s goals for sustainable growth and green innovation. “This latest MUFG N0W is a compelling showcase of how we are well-positioned to connect the best of Japan’s technological capabilities with Malaysia’s abundant green energy resources to unleash exciting, new opportunities to drive further growth.  We are fully aligned with Sarawak’s Sustainability Vision 2030 and will continue to facilitate public-private partnerships to create a more inclusive, brighter future for Japan, Malaysia and Asia.”  

Events

MATRADE Launches MADANI Digital Trade to Connect Malaysian Businesses Globally

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is set to revolutionise the nation’s trade landscape with the launch of the MADANI Digital Trade (MDT), a cutting-edge virtual platform designed to connect Malaysian businesses with global markets. Slated for 13 March 2025 at the Grand Ballroom, Aras 3, MITEC, Kuala Lumpur, the grand launch will be officiated by YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry (MITI). The initiative, in collaboration with Nazsoft Tech Sdn Bhd, underscores MATRADE’s commitment to empowering local exporters and SMEs with the digital tools needed to compete on a global scale. A New Era of Digital Trade MDT is the first-of-its-kind integrated digital trade platform, seamlessly combining business matching, an e-marketplace, market intelligence, and trade-related solutions. The platform is set to redefine how Malaysian exporters engage with international markets, offering them essential tools to thrive in today’s highly competitive digital economy. MATRADE Chairman, YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, highlighted the significance of this initiative: “The launch of the MADANI Digital Trade platform marks a crucial milestone in Malaysia’s trade ecosystem. This initiative will provide businesses with unprecedented access to global buyers, enabling them to grow, scale, and thrive in an increasingly digital-driven economy.” Echoing this sentiment, MATRADE CEO, YBhg. Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, emphasized the platform’s role in accelerating digital transformation: “MADANI Digital Trade is more than just a platform; it is a catalyst for change. By leveraging advanced technology, we are equipping Malaysian businesses with the tools to adapt to the evolving global market, reinforcing MATRADE’s commitment to fostering digital trade and international business expansion.” What to Expect at the Launch The launch event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, business executives, exporters, and technology innovators. Attendees will gain valuable insights and firsthand experience with MDT’s capabilities, including: Live Demonstrations: Experience MDT’s innovative features, including an augmented reality showcase that allows international buyers to explore Malaysian businesses virtually. B2B Business Matching: Engage in exclusive business matching sessions through MATRADE’s Premium Buyers and International Sourcing Programmes (INSP). Expert Insights: Learn about trade financing, ESG solutions, IR4.0 advancements, and digital marketing strategies tailored for global expansion. Meet MIVA: Interact with MDT’s AI-powered virtual assistant, MIVA, designed to provide real-time trade assistance 24/7. Key Dialogue Session: Navigating Global Uncertainties Mark your calendar for 13 March 2025 at 11:00 AM and join an exclusive dialogue session titled “Navigating Global Uncertainties: Resilient Trade Strategies for Malaysian Businesses in 2025.” This panel discussion will address evolving global trade dynamics and strategies to enhance Malaysian exports through digital transformation. Moderated by Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Secretariat, the distinguished panel includes: Datuk William Ng, National President, Small & Medium Enterprises Association (SAMENTA) Norhizam Abdul Kadir, Executive Director, Kiple Pay Sdn Bhd Hairil Izwar Abdul Rahman, Group Chief Digital & Technology Officer, SME Bank Julian Neo, Executive Director, DHL Express Malaysia A Gateway to Global Markets With its integration of smart trade tools, grants, training resources, and regulatory insights, MDT is set to become the ultimate gateway for Malaysian businesses aiming to expand internationally. This initiative represents a major step forward in strengthening Malaysia’s position in the global digital trade ecosystem. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Malaysia’s digital trade revolution. Join the launch event and explore how MDT can propel your business onto the world stage.

Events

Mobility Tech Asia (MTA)

The Battery Show Asia (TBSA) & Mobility Tech Asia (MTA)—Asia’s premier platform for advanced battery, energy storage, and EV/HV technologies—will take place at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong, from July 15-17, 2025. A Global Legacy, Now in Asia Building on the success of flagship events in North America (Detroit), Europe (Stuttgart), and India, The Battery Show is expanding into Asia to drive cutting-edge innovation in battery technology and next-generation energy storage solutions. The Battery Show Asia (TBSA) A dedicated platform for advanced battery development, technology breakthroughs, and energy storage solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and explore the latest innovations shaping the future of energy. Co-Located with Mobility Tech Asia (MTA) A key gathering for breakthrough technologies in EVs, hybrids, charging, hydrogen fuel cells, and key components across passenger and commercial vehicles, e-boats, aircraft, and two-wheelers. Why Attend? Explore Cutting-Edge Technologies: Witness the latest advancements in e-mobility and energy storage systems. Network with Industry Leaders: Meet and collaborate with pioneers and innovators shaping the future of mobility. Seize Business Opportunities: Discover high-value partnerships and investment prospects. Learn from Experts: Attend sessions and panels featuring top industry minds. Event Details Location: AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong Dates: July 15-17, 2025 Website: www.mobilitytech.asia Be Part of the Mobility Revolution Mobility Tech Asia 2025 is more than an event; it’s a movement. As clean energy adoption accelerates, this is your opportunity to be at the forefront of change. Join us and help pave the way for a sustainable, innovative future in mobility.  

ESG, Events

GREEN@WORK Leadership Summit Explores Malaysia’s Role in Sustainable Innovation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Green@Work Leadership Summit 2024, hosted by Asia School of Business (ASB), brought together global leaders, innovators, academia, and policymakers to discuss the crucial role of green technologies, green finance, and sustainable solutions in shaping ASEAN’s future. The Summit provided a dynamic platform to address pressing issues across the business, energy, and finance sectors, sparking discussions on collaboration and ways to drive a more sustainable future for the region. In his opening address, Encik Muhammad Hidayatullah Bin Nasrul, from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to becoming a regional leader in sustainability. “Malaysia is at a critical juncture where sustainability is essential, not optional. Initiatives like the Bursa Carbon Exchange and rising renewable energy investments signal our commitment to lead in sustainable development. Collaboration across sectors is key to ensuring our nation achieves its green goals while inspiring ASEAN to prioritize environmental resilience,” he said. Throughout the Summit, key discussions revolved around the transformative role of green technology in driving economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Professor Sanjay Sarma, CEO, President, and Dean of ASB, emphasized that green technology is no longer a trend but a vital solution to the existential challenges the world faces. “The global green tech market is projected to reach USD 62.4 billion by 2030, with Southeast Asia leading the way. Embracing these innovations is essential for ASEAN’s economic and environmental future,” he said. The importance of circular economy models in scaling sustainable solutions was a key theme, with Zain Almohdzar, Co-Founder of Klean, Sarah Cragg Head of APAC Partnerships at The Earthshot Prize and M. Huzaini Ghazali, Chief Strategy and Portfolio Officer at Gentari discussing how transformative green technologies can address waste challenges in ASEAN.   Zain noted, “Circular economy initiatives are crucial in addressing waste challenges in ASEAN, where the region generates over 150 million tons of waste annually. Innovative technologies, such as advanced recycling systems and digital waste management platforms, are key to scaling these solutions and could potentially reduce landfill contributions by 25% within the next decade.” Blended finance also emerged as a vital mechanism in supporting the green transition. Professor Joseph Cherian, Deputy CEO of ASB and Practice Professor of Finance, emphasized how blended finance can bridge the funding gap by bringing governments, businesses, and investors together, hence accelerating the green transition. “Blended finance is not just a tool, it is a catalyst that can unlock trillions in investments for green initiatives. From accelerating carbon market development to funding renewable energy projects, it creates pathways for public-private partnerships that drive large-scale impact,” he explained. The intersection of green finance and regulation was another focal point, featuring a panel discussion moderated by Johan Rozali-Wathooth, CEO of Bintang Capital Partners. The panel included Muhammad Rizal Azmi, AVP of Business Development & Sales at Bursa Carbon Exchange, Salmah Bee Mohd Mydin, Executive Director of Market Development at Securities Commission Malaysia and Yin Shao Loong, Deputy Director of Research, Khazanah Research Institute. They explored how evolving regulatory frameworks can unlock new green financial solutions. Salmah Bee highlighted the rapid growth of Malaysia’s green bond market, noting a 50% increase in issuance over the past two years. “Regulatory frameworks must evolve to not only encourage but also scale these green financial solutions across ASEAN,” she emphasized.” The Summit concluded with a call to action for participants to translate the insights shared into actionable solutions, reinforcing the collective responsibility to foster a sustainable future for ASEAN

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