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KUALA LUMPUR: CARE Latex Sdn Bhd (“CARE Latex”), Malaysia’s leading  condom brand, has announced a strategic partnership with Kossan Holdings (M) Sdn Bhd  (“Kossan Holdings”), the investment arm of one of the world’s largest manufacturers of gloves and rubber product.. This partnership positions Kossan Holdings as CARE Latex’s third-largest investor,  strengthening the brand’s strategic foundation and supporting its long-term growth ambitions in the global  sexual wellness market. CARE Latex’s impressive growth trajectory — highlighted by a 1,399% increase in revenue and a 1,615%  surge in unit sales from 2018 to 2024 — underscores strong consumer trust and positions the brand as  a regional frontrunner and emerging global player.  This strategic partnership with Kossan Holdings marks a pivotal milestone in CARE Latex’s pre-IPO  journey. It enhances CARE Latex’s ecosystem by accelerating product innovation, improving inventory  management, expanding research and development (“R&D”) capabilities, and broadening market reach  through new distribution channels.  Beyond market expansion, the collaboration also aligns with CARE Latex’s commitment to public health,  particularly in addressing the urgent issue of HIV prevention among Southeast Asian youth. According to  UNAIDS 2023, one in four new HIV cases in the region involves individuals aged 15 to 24, with 93% linked to unprotected sex. In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health’s Global AIDS Monitoring Report 2024 indicates that 32% of new HIV infections occur in this age group, and yet condom usage remains below  40%.  CARE Latex is building greater operational capacity and expanding access to trusted protection products  by harnessing advanced manufacturing and supply chain strengths — deepening its commitment to  preventing sexually transmitted diseases and promoting sex education.  “Welcoming Kossan Holdings as a strategic investor enhances our capacity to scale production, drive  innovation, and deliver our mission. Together,  we are building a globally respected Malaysian brand that stands for quality, innovation, and social  responsibility,”  said Bonn Lam Chee Fong, Founder of CARE Latex. Reflecting on CARE Latex’s origins, Bonn added, “Our journey started with a simple yet powerful insight  — if the world’s leading condom brands source their latex from Malaysia, why not build a world-class  brand here at home? With Malaysia ranking as the sixth-largest producer of natural latex, we are  leveraging local strengths to accelerate the R&D pipeline, to launch innovations like Malaysia’s first  Microbial Barrier condom, designed with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties for enhanced  protection.”  Lim Seow Chair, representative of Kossan Holdings, commented: “We are proud to support CARE Latex, a brand that shares our values of integrity, innovation, and sustainable impact. CARE Latex’s focus on sexual wellness, coupled with its inclusive, innovative and science-led approach, aligns  perfectly with our purpose-driven investment philosophy.”  CARE Latex is the only Malaysian condom brand with a retail presence in both Singapore and South  Korea, distributed through major convenience store chains such as Olive Young, and GS25, which has  over 17,300 outlets.  Future expansion markets include Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Macau, New Zealand, and the United  States. The company’s growth strategy remains anchored in broadening retail reach, advancing product  innovation, and exploring acquisitions of local brands. Multiple new product lines are in development to  support this continued growth, including clinical and personal lubricants, pregnancy and HIV test kits,  pleasure devices, and wellness supplements. 

KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Leong Bank Berhad (HLB) has formed a strategic alliance with Swiss private bank Lombard Odier to enhance its HLB Private Bank and Regional Wealth Management proposition. The move marks a significant step in HLB’s transformation strategy to become Malaysia’s best-run bank, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and legacy-building wealth solutions. The partnership was formalised at HLB’s headquarters in Kuala Lumpur between Kevin Lam, HLB’s Group Managing Director and CEO, and Vincent Magnenat, Asia Group Regional Head and Global Head of Strategic Alliances at Lombard Odier. It was witnessed by key senior executives from both organisations. “This is a transformative era for wealth management,” said Kevin Lam. “Our ambition to be the best-run bank is intertwined with empowering clients to build wealth that transcends generations. With Lombard Odier, we are charting a course for enduring wealth—combining world-class expertise with our commitment to responsibility and innovation.” A Synergy of Global Vision and Local Expertise The alliance brings together Lombard Odier’s global investment strategies and HLB’s deep understanding of the regional market. Clients will benefit from a sophisticated, personalised experience, including: Investment insights from Lombard Odier’s Chief Investment Office Comprehensive wealth architecture Bespoke advisory services focused on succession planning, sustainable investments, and generational wealth transfer Strengthening Capabilities from Within Alongside the alliance, HLB is also: Expanding its wealth management team with top-tier talent Launching a Wealth Academy to upskill relationship managers Integrating AI tools to enhance client engagement and insights Advancing digital capabilities and client service delivery “Asia-Pacific’s wealth is growing rapidly, especially among high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs),” said Jeffrey Yap, Managing Director & Regional Head of Wealth Management at HLB. “This alliance enables us to deliver tailored solutions that meet the evolving complexities of wealth today—and secure legacies for the future.” Extending Through Hong Leong Asset Management The partnership also enhances Hong Leong Asset Management Bhd (HLAM)’s product offerings, leveraging Lombard Odier’s role as a target fund manager to bring exclusive investment strategies to Malaysian investors. “We believe in working with the right partners who share our DNA,” said Vincent Magnenat of Lombard Odier. “In HLB, we see a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and legacy wealth planning. We are delighted to welcome them into our ecosystem of strategic alliances.”

KUALA LUMPUR: Radium Development Berhad, a homegrown property developer known for its affordably priced homes across the Klang Valley, has officially ventured into the healthcare sector with the launch of its first medical facility, Radium Hospital @ Ayer Keroh. Currently known as A Famosa Specialist Hospital, the facility will be repositioned under the newly established Radium Healthcare Sdn Bhd, marking a significant milestone in the group’s diversification strategy. Strategically situated adjacent to the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) and within close proximity to the PLUS Highway, the tertiary-level hospital is designed to cater to the evolving healthcare needs of Tier 2 towns. It will serve a broad patient base ranging from middle- to high-income groups, insurance holders, corporate clients, and medical tourists. “As a brand built on the belief of ‘Building Good’, our venture into healthcare is a natural extension of our mission to serve Malaysians from all walks of life,” said Datuk Gary Gan, Group Managing Director of Radium. “Just as we’ve provided quality housing solutions, we’re now committed to offering the same reliability, compassion, and excellence in healthcare.” Set to commence operations in the first half of 2028, Radium Hospital @ Ayer Keroh will be the centrepiece of Radium Centricity, a proposed 7.11-acre integrated development focused on health, wellness, and well-being. The wider masterplan will eventually include residential and commercial components, supporting the hospital with lifestyle and healthcare-related services. The hospital will house Centres of Excellence in traumatised care, cardiology, infertility treatment, and neonatology—areas identified as critical to Melaka’s healthcare landscape. “Our vision is to create a healthcare system that is inclusive, ethical, and adaptable,” said Dr Arun Kumar, CEO of Radium Healthcare. “This hospital represents the first step in building a network of community-focused facilities that meet the highest clinical standards while remaining affordable to the public.” Radium Healthcare’s business model emphasises long-term sustainability through a combination of internal funding, strategic borrowings, asset-light structures, and operational efficiency. The group is also investing in technological upgrades and rigorous safety protocols, while pursuing MSQH accreditation to ensure clinical excellence. Partnerships will be a core component of Radium Healthcare’s approach. The company is working closely with local corporates and NGOs, and has formed a strategic collaboration with M Life Healthcare Sdn Bhd, helmed by Dr Arun Kumar. “With Dr Arun’s leadership and our shared vision, we’re confident that Radium Healthcare will emerge as a strong private hospital group in Malaysia,” added Gan. With more healthcare developments in the pipeline, Radium’s latest move aligns with national goals to enhance healthcare accessibility and improve the quality of life for Malaysians. For more information, visit: www.radiumhealthcare.com

KUALA LUMPUR: CGS International Securities (“CGSI” or the “Company”) in collaboration with MBSB and OCBC, today at their curtain raiser for the inaugural ASEAN Business Forum 2025 (“ABF2025” or the “Forum”), shared key action points slated for intense discussion at the event on the 29 May 2025. ABF2025 will be held in conjunction with the 46th ASEAN Summit 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, and the ASEAN-GCC + China Summit 2025. A key highlight of the forum is the corporate engagement and business exchange session designed to drive real business collaboration between pre-screened and pre-selected matching parties from the top 25 corporations and investors across ASEAN and China. Themed “From Vision to Reality – ASEAN Partnerships Fuelling Sustainable Growth”, the forum is co-hosted with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Malaysia. It is expected to draw more than 500 attendees comprising over 200 foreign and local corporates, policymakers and corporate captains representing the region’s largest companies of over RM1 trillion in market capitalisation, council members of ASEAN BAC countries representing the company interests of their home nations, and fund managers with total funds under management of over RM 8 trillion. The gathering comes at a critical juncture, as affected countries are renegotiating trade terms with the United States, while exploring alternative strategies to sustain economic stability and growth. Present at the curtain raiser were CGSI’s strategic partners and supporters including Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chairman of the ASEAN-BAC for Malaysia, Mr. Sivasuriyamoorthy Sundara Raja, MIDA Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Investment Promotion and Facilitation), Dato’ Azlan Shahrim, Group Chief Strategy Officer representing MBSB Berhad and Ms. Tan Ai Chin, Managing Director, Senior Banker & Head of Investment Banking of OCBC Malaysia – both trusted banking partners committed to growing ASEAN financial ecosystems and supporting sustainable investment flows. Mr. Sivasuriyamoorthy Sundara Raja, MIDA Deputy CEO (Investment Promotion and Facilitation) shared, “We commend CGS International Securities for hosting the ASEAN Business Forum 2025 — a timely effort that speaks to the region’s shared aspiration for sustainable and inclusive prosperity, amidst geopolitical and challenging global economic landscape. At MIDA, we are committed to partnerships that go beyond transactions, that shape long-term value for Malaysia and uplift business communities. This forum bodes well with the statement of intent by ASEAN — to lead with shared purpose, unity, and economic vision. As the Malaysian government’s principal promotion agency, MIDA stands ready to facilitate investments that strengthen regional supply chain integration and elevate ASEAN on the global stage.” YBhg. Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chairman of the ASEAN-BAC for Malaysia added, “Now, more than ever, ASEAN needs to strengthen bilateral ties and stay united. We need to be deliberate and realistic, taking concerted efforts to optimise intra-ASEAN trade and investments. Amongst our 12 priorities, initiatives such as the ASEAN Business Entity (ABE) directly facilitate this by enabling operational flexibility to ASEAN-based companies to move business, capital, and talent, which will in turn allow emerging businesses and markets to flourish.” In her opening presentation, Puan Azizah Mohd Yatim, CEO of CGS Malaysia said, “This forum marks a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to attract more investment and trade to the region by leveraging the CGSI Group’s China parentage. Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN is happening at this unique time where the world economy is shifting. Together with our fellow ASEAN members, we have a golden opportunity co-ordinate and re-establish deeper, stronger intra-ASEAN, ASEAN+3 and global ties. Through CGSI’s ASEAN network and parentage, we can connect and support the capital needs of businesses in the region and help investors navigate cross-border investments confidently. To date, we have organised and facilitated B2B and B2G engagements for companies and policymakers with China and look forward to organising many more.” On behalf of MBSB group, its Chief Strategy Officer Dato’ Azlan Shahrim highlighted, “Our active participation in the ASEAN Business Forum reflects our commitment to catalysing deeper collaboration across the region. At MBSB Group, we are committed to advancing Malaysia’s regional and global ambitions through our unique combination of MBSB Bank’s banking solutions and MIDF’s development finance expertise. With focus on high-impact sectors such as renewable energy, electrical and electronics, aerospace, agri-foods, and halal, we provide bespoke services that empower businesses and SMEs to grow strategically across ASEAN and beyond. Through our investment banking services, Shariah advisory expertise, and commitment to sustainability, we are helping companies raise capital and scale, in line with the region’s evolving economic landscape.” Ms Tan Ai Chin, Managing Director, Senior Banker & Head of Investment Banking of OCBC Malaysia, concluded, ““At OCBC, we believe ASEAN’s strength lies in its connectivity — the seamless integration of markets, talent, and capital, underpinned by sustainable growth. Our participation in ABF2025 underscores our commitment to facilitate cross-border economic collaboration. Through OCBC Group’s integrated global network – spanning corporate & investment banking, private banking, asset management and insurance – we empower businesses to unlock growth opportunities that transcend borders. With our deep-rooted presence in ASEAN and Greater China, OCBC is uniquely positioned to deliver tailored sustainable and Islamic financial solutions as well as bespoke M&A advisory to facilitate trade and investment flows. Together, we are bridging economies while building a resilient, net-zero future for ASEAN.” The full-day forum will feature more than 20 speakers and panellists for discussions as well as closed- door meetings between investors and policy makers, all focused on addressing challenges and catalysing opportunities for high-value deals and strategic partnerships for regional economic growth. Several memoranda of understanding (MOUs) will be announced during the Forum on 29 May, signalling long-term collaboration in strategic growth sectors such as healthcare, investments, single family office, and trade.

KUALA LUMPUR : Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd (KLK) is anticipated to deliver stronger net profit in the second half of the financial year ending 30 September 2025 (2HFY25), with the absence of derivatives-related losses expected to bolster earnings performance, according to CIMB Securities Research. The research house noted that although KLK has revised its full-year fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production guidance to reflect mid-single-digit growth, it maintains a positive outlook for the second half, supported by improved production levels. CIMB Securities highlighted that this implies production in 2HFY25 could contribute approximately 52 per cent of total annual output, sustaining earnings momentum. However, the impact of this uplift is likely to be partially offset by the current decline in crude palm oil (CPO) prices. KLK recorded a 2.5 per cent year-on-year decrease in ex-mill CPO production costs to RM2,100 per tonne in the first half of FY25 (1HFY25), mainly due to lower fertiliser prices. Despite this, the firm continues to face headwinds in several areas. Refining margins are expected to remain weak, its glove division remains in the red, and gas supply disruptions have adversely affected operational efficiency at its oleochemical facilities during the third quarter of FY25. KLK disclosed that the RM252 million in derivatives losses reported in 1HFY25 were largely unrealised, with approximately RM143 million related to US dollar hedging activities. CIMB Securities has maintained its ‘Hold’ rating on KLK, with an unchanged target price of RM21.50. -Business Times