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Malaysia’s central bank said on Wednesday that it has imposed a fine of RM520,000 (US$125,665) on AEON Credit Service (M) Bhd (AEONCR) for breaches involving targeted financial sanctions requirements. AEON Credit, the Malaysian subsidiary of Japan’s Aeon Co (8267), has since implemented remedial measures and conducted refresher training for relevant staff to strengthen compliance processes, according to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM). BNM said the breaches occurred after AEON Credit allowed a sanctioned entity to open an account with the company. The central bank did not disclose the identity of the sanctioned party. In addition, AEON Credit was found to have delayed freezing the account even after confirmation that the customer was listed under domestic sanctions, the regulator added. “These breaches were attributed to lack of staff oversight and a gap in AEON Credit’s standard operating procedure,” Bank Negara Malaysia said in its statement. BNM also confirmed that AEON Credit has since paid the compound, which was settled on April 16. The central bank reiterated that financial institutions are required to maintain robust internal controls and compliance frameworks to ensure full adherence to sanctions obligations, particularly in relation to customer due diligence and timely account restrictions. The case highlights the importance of strengthening operational safeguards within financial institutions to prevent lapses in sanctions screening and enforcement.

Malaysia’s state-controlled energy producer Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) has made another gas discovery at offshore Block 52 in Suriname, according to the South American nation’s President Jennifer Simons on Tuesday. A PETRONAS executive said the block’s eight discoveries now contain more than one billion barrels of oil equivalent. Suriname is seeking to emulate neighbouring Guyana’s rapid rise as a major oil producer through offshore developments led by international energy companies. PETRONAS is expected to make a final investment decision (FID) this year to develop offshore natural gas reserves in Suriname, following the declaration that its Sloanea discovery in the same block is commercially viable. The company has also been conducting further exploration for oil in the area. “This is really good news for us,” Simons said at an energy conference, without providing further details. It “sets the base for multiple oil and gas developments and a brighter future for Suriname,” she added. “To date, we have made eight successful exploration discoveries, unlocking over one billion barrels of oil equivalent, while continuing to advance lower-carbon solutions, safe operations and investment in people, technology and capability to create long-term value for the country,” said PETRONAS chief operating officer Mohd Jukris Abdul Wahab during the conference. He added that Block 52 sits within a highly prospective corridor known as the “Golden Lane,” supported by strong regional analogues and sustained industry interest. The first production from Suriname’s offshore resources is on track for 2028, led by a consortium headed by TotalEnergies, Oil Minister Patrick Brunings told Reuters on the sidelines of the conference. Suriname’s state-owned energy company Staatsolie is also offering an open-door licensing round covering more than 70,000 square kilometres across five offshore sectors. The initiative allows companies to propose work programmes and secure production-sharing contracts or joint study agreements to improve seismic data coverage. “There are a few more surprises in store,” Brunings said, referring to ongoing exploration activities. “If we find a lot of gas, we can establish various industries, such as the bauxite industry and the petrochemical industry.” Following Guyana’s emergence as a major oil producer with output exceeding 900,000 barrels per day, Suriname is also positioning itself to develop offshore resources to produce and export crude oil and natural gas through projects led by international partners. “We can also focus on gas exports,” Brunings added. “The whole world is now looking for reliable gas suppliers, and we believe we can play that role very well.”

QEW Group Berhad (“QEW” or “the Company”) refers to the article published by Free Malaysia Today (FMT) concerning the ongoing civil proceedings involving the Company and certain of its directors in relation to the RPS-i investment. As reported, the Company is currently undertaking the implementation of its restructuring and Exit Plan as part of its continuing efforts to fulfil its commitments to investors. The Company wishes to emphasise that the matters presently before the Court arise within the context of a corporate restructuring and obligations resolution process. Such processes are not uncommon within the financial and investment industry, particularly where companies are undertaking structured measures to meet their obligations in an orderly and sustainable manner. When contacted, Fatin Nabihah, spokesperson for QEW Group Berhad’s Legal & Compliance Department, confirms that the implementation of the Company’s Exit Plan remains actively in progress. The Company remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving a fair, practical and commercially viable resolution that safeguards the interests of its investors and all relevant stakeholders. In its Defence filed before the Court, the Company has maintained that the RPS-i is a Shariah-compliant structured investment instrument governed by the terms and conditions of the RPS-i Agreement. The instrument is subject, among other things, to the Company’s business performance, financial position, and the corporate governance mechanisms agreed upon by the parties. The Company also wishes to assure investors that its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) function continues to operate fully and remains available to attend to investors’ enquiries, requests and ongoing communications. In addition, regular updates continue to be provided through the Company’s dedicated investor portal to ensure that official information is communicated in a transparent, timely and orderly manner. As the matter is presently the subject of ongoing civil proceedings before the Court, the Company is constrained from commenting further on issues that are sub judice. QEW respectfully urges all parties to allow the legal process to proceed without undue speculation or the dissemination of inaccurate or misleading information that may create unnecessary public confusion or prejudice the administration of justice. QEW Group Berhad remains committed to cooperating fully with the Court and all relevant authorities throughout the legal process. The Company will continue to provide material updates, where appropriate, through its official communication channels.

Professor Joseph Cherian, CEO, President & Dean of the Asia School of Business (ASB), and Professor Andrew Karolyi, Charles Field Knight Dean of Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, together inked a new extended pathway for ASB graduates. Leaders’ handshake seals pathway from ASB to Cornell. This collaboration enables eligible ASB MBA, Executive MBA and Master in Central Banking students, as well as alumni, to pursue the Master’s in Business Analytics (MSBA) in New York — deepening their analytical capabilities with global exposure. For ASB graduates, this pathway opens the door to further studies at Cornell, creating a more accessible route to one of the world’s top business schools. By extending their academic journey beyond ASB, graduates can gain global exposure, deepen their expertise, and broaden their international networks. From ASB to Cornell. From the heart of Southeast Asia to New York. More pathways. More connections. More possibilities. For info on the diverse post-MBA pathways offered by ASB, visit https://asb.edu.my/academic-program/mba-program/ A handshake between great leadership programmes. A pathway for the future. Signing ceremony at the sidelines of the AACSB International Conference and Annual Meeting 2026. #AsiaSchoolofBusiness #GlobalInquiryLocalHeart

Vietnam plans to open seven new airports by 2030 as part of efforts to expand its aviation network and meet growing travel demand. The new airports include Long Thanh, Gia Binh, Quang Tri, Phan Thiet, Sa Pa, Tho Chu and Thanh Son. Combined with upgrades and expansions at existing airports, the projects are expected to raise the country’s annual passenger handling capacity to as much as 220 million. According to Vietnam’s Construction Ministry, the country aims to have 32 airports by 2030, comprising 15 international and 17 domestic airports. By 2050, three additional domestic airports are planned, bringing the total to 35. Vietnam currently operates 22 airports, while five more are under construction. Expansion or upgrade plans have been approved for 14 airports, with planning underway for the remaining eight. The ministry estimates that airport development between 2021 and 2030 will require investments of about 485 trillion dong (US$18.5 billion), with 55% expected to come from public funds and the rest from private investment. Passenger traffic is projected to exceed 191 million annually by 2030, growing at an average rate of 9.7% per year, while air cargo throughput is expected to reach 3.75 million tonnes, with annual growth averaging 19.3%.

The Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), through SME Corp Malaysia, has launched the SINAR Programme, a RM205 million initiative aimed at strengthening the resilience and growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. The programme introduces five key initiatives, including financing facilities, grants and business support measures, designed to help entrepreneurs overcome financial challenges, improve competitiveness and expand their operations. According to Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, the initiative seeks to ensure MSMEs have access to the resources needed to navigate ongoing economic uncertainties and seize growth opportunities. “In the face of global economic uncertainty, the government cannot allow MSMEs to confront these challenges alone,” he said. Five Initiatives Under the SINAR Programme The SINAR Programme (Program Sokongan Industri dan Perniagaan Rakyat) comprises three financing schemes, a business scaling grant programme and discounted MSME certification fees. 1. SME Easy Financing Scheme (SFSME 2.0) The scheme offers financing ranging from RM50,000 to RM5 million for business expansion, asset acquisition and working capital requirements. Implemented in collaboration with Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF), the financing carries a profit rate of 5% per annum based on monthly balances. 2. SME Capacity and Capability Enhancement Scheme (BAP) Developed with microLEAP, the BAP scheme provides financing between RM500,000 and RM1.5 million to help businesses strengthen operations and manage cash flow. Term financing is available at 5% per annum, while invoice financing rates range between 0.5% and 0.7% per month. 3. PRESTIGE 2.0 Financing Scheme Targeted at high-growth SMEs, the scheme offers financing from RM500,000 to RM1 million through a partnership with Funding Societies. Businesses can enjoy financing rates as low as 3% per annum, while invoice financing is available at 0.5% per month. Companies with strong repayment records may also qualify for rebates of up to 30%. 4. Inclusive Business Scaling Programme The programme supports SMEs seeking to adopt inclusive business models and strengthen supply chain participation. Eligible businesses can receive grants of up to RM200,000, with funding support covering up to 90% of eligible costs for development and training initiatives. 5. 50% Discount on MSME Status Certification To encourage more businesses to obtain official MSME recognition, SME Corp Malaysia is offering a 50% discount on MSME Status Certification applications from June to August 2026. The certification is often required when applying for government grants, financing facilities and other support programmes. Supporting MSME Growth The launch of the SINAR Programme comes as many businesses continue to face challenges from rising costs, economic uncertainty and supply chain disruptions. With financing of up to RM5 million, grants of up to RM200,000, and a range of business support measures, the programme is expected to provide much-needed assistance for Malaysian MSMEs looking to strengthen operations, improve resilience and pursue long-term growth. More information on the SINAR Programme is available at www.smecorp.gov.my.

Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) and IJM Land have unveiled The Linque, a new transit-oriented development (TOD) in Cheras with an estimated gross development value (GDV) of RM600 million. Transport Minister Anthony Loke is seen during the launch of The Linque Cochrane at Cochrane MRT Station in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, June 15, 2026.  The project marks MRT Corp’s first TOD initiative in the Klang Valley and will feature approximately 586 serviced apartment units alongside curated retail spaces directly connected to the Cochrane MRT Station. Located above the station, The Linque is designed to provide residents with seamless access to public transportation and retail amenities. The development is connected to the wider MRT network, including the Kajang Line, which currently records the highest daily ridership in the MRT system. Speaking at the launch event in Kuala Lumpur, MRT Corp chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim said the project demonstrates the company’s commitment to creating long-term value around public transport infrastructure and surrounding communities. “One of its most distinctive features is its direct basement-to-concourse connection, a first-of-its-kind feature for an MRT-integrated residential development, allowing residents to access the rail network conveniently without needing to step outdoors. “This is the kind of connectivity that TOD is meant to deliver, where public transport is not simply nearby, but fully integrated into the way people live, move and connect every day,” he said. Mohd Zarif noted that MRT Corp played an active role throughout the planning and design stages of the development following the signing of a joint development agreement with IJM Land in December 2025. Rather than taking a conventional landowner-developer approach, MRT Corp worked closely with IJM Land to ensure the project’s design, connectivity and placemaking elements align with the long-term objectives of the MRT network. He added that IJM Land was selected after undergoing a thorough evaluation process, citing the developer’s strong track record. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and IJM Land chief executive officer Datuk Tony Ling Thou Lung. Loke said the project aligns with the Ministry of Transport’s objectives to maximise the value of strategic public assets while encouraging greater use of public transportation. “Through our network and its surrounding land, where it can be developed into real estate, shopping malls and other projects, value can be generated for the government while also increasing ridership for the MRT network. “This is a win-win situation and a catalyst for economic development,” he said. The minister also encouraged developers to collaborate in creating connected pedestrian networks that link MRT stations with surrounding buildings, destinations and public spaces, helping to strengthen urban connectivity and accessibility.

Malaysia will maintain the current monthly subsidised fuel quota of 200 litres under the Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) programme for now, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said the government would only consider revising the quota if Brent crude prices — the global oil benchmark — rise sharply to between US$200 and US$300 per barrel. At the time of writing, Brent crude was trading at US$92.38 per barrel. “We reduced the quota from 300 litres to 200 litres, and I think that has helped. If prices were to reach US$200 to US$300 per barrel, then we would have to look again at that time,” he said at the Invest Malaysia conference on Tuesday. “As long as the government has the ability to manage the situation, we will continue to mitigate the impact on society,” he added. On fuel supply, Amir Hamzah said the government has been securing supplies on a rolling basis and intends to continue doing so. “We have been able to secure supply for up to three months ahead and will continue to do so. What we cannot guarantee is that prices will remain stable, as they must ultimately reflect global market conditions over the longer term,” he said. The Budi95 monthly quota was reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres effective April 1, as Malaysia’s fuel subsidy bill rose to about RM7 billion per month amid global supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions and instability around the Strait of Hormuz — a key route for global oil and gas shipments. The Budi95 programme allows eligible Malaysians to purchase RON95 petrol at a subsidised rate of RM1.99 per litre. Malaysia, along with many countries, continues to face pressure from volatility in global energy markets due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts that have disrupted shipping routes and pushed crude oil prices above US$100 per barrel at times. Against this backdrop, Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS), which supplies about half of Malaysia’s fuel through its listed subsidiary PETRONAS Dagangan Bhd, has reiterated its commitment to ensuring supply security through end-July, according to earlier remarks by Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

Pharmaniaga Bhd has secured a RM281.67 million contract to supply medical products to the Malaysian government through the Health Ministry’s (MoH) tender procurement exercise. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the pharmaceutical company said the contract was awarded to its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pharmaniaga Lifescience Sdn Bhd (PLS). The contract will run for a three-year period from June 3, 2026 to June 2, 2029. Pharmaniaga said the agreement falls within the ordinary course of business of the group and will allow PLS to continue providing distribution services for the supply of medical products to the MoH. The company added that the contract also supports efforts to improve diabetes management in Malaysia through the supply of high-quality and cost-effective biosimilar insulin products, amid the growing number of diabetic patients nationwide. Pharmaniaga expects the contract to contribute positively to the group’s earnings throughout the contract duration ending in 2029.

FWD Takaful Berhad (FWD Takaful) was awarded the Best Direct Distribution Channel – Family Takaful by the Malaysia Takaful Association (MTA) at the Takaful Star Awards 2026. The award recognised the transformative efforts through FWD i-Lindung plan, a hybrid offline-to-online (O2O) distribution model that made digital takaful protection scalable and inclusive. The innovation led to remarkable adoption, delivering 60% of the market share for i-Lindung plans, a national self-service platform that simplifies the process of purchasing protection products. Digital Commerce Team led by Marcus, Tjon Tsin Kim was present to receive the award. FWD i-Lindung offers two plans, FWD i-Lindung Term Takaful Plan and FWD i-Lindung Critical Illness Plan, both of which provides takaful protection for death and total and permanent disability benefits as well as early-to-advanced stages of critical illness. Aman Chowla, Country Chief Executive Officer of FWD Malaysia, said, “There was an industry wide challenge – digital channels continue to contribute minimally to overall takaful offerings. Our approach focuses on making digital simple for everyday customers and turning complex processes into a guided and high‑confidence experience. The result was a scalable, inclusive model that brought first-time coverage to thousands of Malaysians, reduced digital intimidation, and meaningfully closed the protection gap in communities that need it most.” The Takaful Star Awards recognise exemplary performance among Takaful operators, agents, and industry leaders. FWD Takaful has also received multiple recognitions during the prestigious awards night including winner (Palanisamy a/l Krishnan) for Top Group Business Corporate Agency – Family Takaful Group Business, winner (Ching Yuen Hui) and first runner-up (Katherine Yong Yee Hwa) for Top Banca Takaful Producer (Bank Marketing Staff) – Bancatakaful, as well as first runner-up (Jaffri bin Osman) for Top Rookie Agent – Family Takaful Individual Business. This recognition reaffirms FWD Takaful’s commitment in changing the way people feel about takaful by enabling consumers to build a stronger, more secure future.