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Nurjesmi Mohd Nashir to spearhead RHB’s Wholesale Banking

KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Bank Berhad (“RHB” or the “Group”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nurjesmi bin Mohd Nashir as Managing Director of Wholesale Banking, effective 1 July 2025. Nurjesmi succeeds Datuk Fad’l Mohamed, who was recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Bursa Malaysia. With over 3 decades of experience in banking and capital markets, Nurjesmi brings deep expertise in corporate banking, investment banking, and market development. In his previous roles, he has a strong track record in transformative efforts to drive growth, reinforce the banks’ market standing, and optimise operational performance.   He began his career as an equity analyst in 1993 and has held various leadership positions at Citibank Berhad between 1996 to 2013, covering sectors including energy, plantations, and real estate.   Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, Group Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer of RHB Banking Group said, “Nurjesmi’s market insights and proven leadership make him well-positioned to steer our Wholesale Banking business into its next phase of growth. With our recent organisational restructure, Wholesale Banking will focus on five core areas – Investment Banking, Treasury & Global Markets, Transaction Banking, Client Coverage and Economic Research. I am confident his experience and leadership will be valuable in driving the Group’s PROGRESS27 strategy.”   Nurjesmi holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Syracuse University, New York, and a Diploma in Business Studies from MARA University of Technology (UiTM). He also served as an Independent Board Member of Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad, from 2018 to 2023.   This appointment reaffirms RHB’s commitment to strengthening its leadership bench and driving long-term value creation across its Wholesale Banking business.

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Big BYD Dealer in Shandong Shuts Down

KUALA LUMPUR: A major BYD car dealer in eastern China, Qiancheng Holdings, has gone out of business, with more than 20 outlets in cities like Jinan and Weifang shuttered, according to state-owned Jinan Times. The closure has affected over 1,000 customers who are still owed warranty and after-sales support. Qiancheng, which once recorded an annual turnover of ¥3 billion and employed 1,200 staff, cited recent dealer policy changes by BYD as a key factor in a letter dated 17 April, stating the adjustments severely strained its cash flow. However, BYD attributed the collapse to Qiancheng’s aggressive expansion strategy, while affirming it is providing support to the dealer. The development underscores rising pressures in China’s competitive EV market, where shifting consumer demand, tighter margins, and a pivot towards direct selling are squeezing traditional dealerships.

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CGS International Deepens ASEAN-China Ties with Strategic MOUs, Including ETF Partnership with Bursa Malaysia and Fullgoal HK

KUALA LUMPUR: CGS International Securities Group (“CGS International”) and its parent, China Galaxy Securities Co., Ltd (“CGS”), today formalised six new landmark agreements at the inaugural ASEAN Business Forum 2025 (ABF2025), co-hosted by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Malaysia. These include five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and one Letter of Intent (LOI), advancing the firm’s ambition to catalyse ASEAN-China business collaboration across investment, trade and strategic sectors. The signing ceremony, held in conjunction with the 46th ASEAN Summit and the ASEAN-GCC + China Summit, was witnessed by key dignitaries including Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA (on behalf of YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry), Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi, Executive Chairman of the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chairman of ASEAN-BAC Malaysia, and Mr Wang Sheng, Chairman of CGS. These agreements follow CGS International’s earlier pledge of RM6 billion during the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) Partners’ Dialogue, comprising RM3 billion in foreign direct investment facilitation and RM3 billion in asset management under new Single Family Office Ventures. Strategic Agreements Signed 1. LOI for China-ASEAN Investment ProgrammeAims to establish a private equity fund focusing on high-growth sectors such as semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, healthcare, food security and consumer sectors. Malaysia will serve as a regional anchor and technology transfer bridge between China and ASEAN. 2. MOU with MIDABoth parties will jointly promote Malaysia as a prime investment hub, focusing on investor facilitation, business matching, fundraising and supply chain development across high-value sectors. 3. MOU with Fullgoal Asset Management (HK) Limited and Bursa MalaysiaThis trilateral collaboration is set to expand Malaysia’s Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) offerings by enabling the listing of foreign-underlying ETFs on Bursa Malaysia. It will give Malaysian investors greater access to global markets and diversify capital market products. 4. MOU with GL Capital Management LimitedTo launch a private equity fund dedicated to ASEAN’s growing healthcare and medical devices sector. 5. MOU with OCBC Bank (Malaysia) BerhadTo support trade and investment flows between China and ASEAN by offering integrated banking, treasury, and investment services to regional clients. 6. MOU with Zhongguancun International Holding Limited (Hong Kong)To attract Chinese companies in advanced manufacturing, food security, digital tech, and healthcare to the JS-SEZ and selected Malaysian industrial parks. ETF Collaboration with Bursa Malaysia and Fullgoal HK In a separate but complementary development at ABF2025, CGS MY signed a tripartite MOU with Bursa Malaysia and Fullgoal HK to facilitate the listing of new ETFs on Bursa Malaysia. The initiative aims to expand Malaysian retail investors’ access to global investment products and markets. “This collaboration marks a pivotal step in expanding Malaysia’s ETF landscape,” said Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed, CEO of Bursa Malaysia. “It reinforces our position as an investment gateway bridging Malaysia with global financial markets.” Mr Ge Chen, Chairman of Fullgoal HK, cited strengthened Malaysia-China maritime and financial ties under the Belt and Road Initiative, stating, “This partnership enhances our international asset allocation capabilities and supports our ‘going global’ strategy.” CGS International CEO, Madam Carol Fong, added: “Our role as a connector and catalyst in ASEAN-China capital flows is made possible through partnerships like these. We’re excited to deepen investor access to unique global opportunities.” Currently, Bursa Malaysia lists 17 ETFs managed by six issuers with a combined AUM of MYR2.4 billion. A Regional Investment Catalyst With over 500 policymakers, investors, and corporate leaders in attendance, ABF2025 underscores Malaysia’s role as a regional anchor for investment and a facilitator of ASEAN-China connectivity under its 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship. CGS International’s multilateral signings serve as a strong vote of confidence in the region’s potential and its future as a united, high-growth economic powerhouse. For more information on CGS International’s initiatives, visit www.cgsi.com.

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CGS International Signs Strategic Agreements at ASEAN Business Forum 2025 to Deepen ASEAN-China Partnerships

KUALA LUMPUR: In a landmark move signalling growing economic cooperation between China and ASEAN, China Galaxy Securities Co., Ltd (“CGS”) and its regional arm, CGS International Securities Group (“CGS International”), signed five strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and one Letter of Intent (LOI) at the ASEAN Business Forum 2025 (ABF2025). The event, co-hosted by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Malaysia, underscores ASEAN’s ambitions to strengthen cross-border trade and investment in high-growth sectors. Witnessed by key regional stakeholders including Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA; Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi, Executive Chairman of the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC); Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chair of ASEAN-BAC Malaysia; and Mr Wang Sheng, Chairman of CGS – the signings mark a deepening of CGS International’s long-term strategic intent in ASEAN. Strengthening ASEAN-China Capital and Business Flows The agreements build on CGS International’s RM6 billion pledge made during the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone Partners’ Dialogue earlier this month. The commitment comprises RM3 billion in facilitation of foreign direct investment (FDI) over three years and RM3 billion in assets under management through the establishment of Single Family Office Ventures. Spanning areas including private equity, investment facilitation, ETF offerings, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, digital tech, and trade banking services, the six new agreements position Malaysia as a key regional anchor in ASEAN’s economic integration journey. Key Agreements Include: LOI for the China-ASEAN Investment Programme – A private equity fund targeting high-growth sectors such as healthcare, semiconductors, renewable energy, food security, and advanced manufacturing across ASEAN, with Malaysia as the core regional hub. The fund also aims to drive cross-border industry knowledge and tech transfer. MOU with MIDA – To jointly promote Malaysia as a premier investment destination and support investor facilitation, fundraising, business matching, and supply chain development. MOU with Fullgoal Asset Management (HK) & Bursa Malaysia – To introduce new Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) on Bursa Malaysia, expanding global investment access for local investors. MOU with GL Capital Management Limited – To launch a private equity fund focused on ASEAN’s fast-growing healthcare and medical devices sector. MOU with OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad – To support ASEAN-China trade and investment flows through integrated banking, treasury, and investment banking services. MOU with Zhongguancun International Holding (Hong Kong) – To assist Chinese firms in entering Malaysian industrial parks and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, focusing on sectors such as advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and food security. Malaysia’s Role Under ASEAN Chairmanship The move highlights Malaysia’s proactive role during its ASEAN Chairmanship in catalysing intra-ASEAN and ASEAN-China economic linkages. It also reflects the region’s attractiveness as a long-term growth engine, with CGS International committed to serving as a bridge between ASEAN opportunities and Chinese capital. “These signings are more than just intents and agreements – they signify our strong confidence in the investment and growth potential of ASEAN and Malaysia,” said Madam Carol Fong, Group CEO of CGS International. “As a connector and catalyst, we aim to accelerate cross-border strategic collaborations, capital and talent mobility for business growth.” A High-Impact Business Forum Held in conjunction with the 46th ASEAN Summit and the ASEAN-GCC + China Summit 2025, ABF2025 gathered over 500 regional policymakers, investors, and business leaders. Organised by ASEAN-BAC Malaysia and MIDA with support from MBSB Bank and OCBC Malaysia, the forum featured high-level dialogues, strategic panels, and closed-door business matchmaking sessions. As CGS International expands its influence across ASEAN, these partnerships reaffirm its role as a key enabler in the region’s economic transformation. For more on CGS International’s services and initiatives, visit www.cgsi.com.

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Google Begins Direct Online Sales of Pixel Devices in India

NEW DELHI:  In a strategic shift aimed at deepening its footprint in India’s premium smartphone market, Google has officially launched direct online sales of its Pixel-branded hardware in the country. Starting Thursday, Indian consumers can now purchase Pixel phones, watches, and earbuds directly from the official Google Store, marking the tech giant’s first direct-to-consumer e-commerce move in the South Asian market. The decision places Google in direct competition with Apple, which already operates its own online and physical stores in India. The move comes ahead of Google’s anticipated launch of its first-ever brick-and-mortar outlets in the country, following reports earlier this year that the company was finalising store locations. Until now, Google devices were available in India through authorised third-party retailers and on Flipkart, a Walmart-owned e-commerce platform. The direct online sales channel will give Google greater control over customer experience, pricing, and brand positioning—elements that have been key to Apple’s success in India and globally. Retail Expansion on the Horizon Google’s retail ambitions mirror the approach taken by Apple, whose physical stores have become iconic venues for showcasing premium tech. Apple currently operates retail outlets in Mumbai and New Delhi, with more planned. Google is expected to follow suit as it seeks to build a strong offline presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies. According to a February report by Reuters, the Alphabet-owned firm is close to finalising locations for its first retail stores outside the United States. Premium Market Challenge Despite its global popularity, Google’s Pixel line has struggled to gain a significant share in India’s competitive premium smartphone segment. Market research firm Counterpoint estimates that Apple held a dominant 55% share of India’s premium smartphone market (phones priced above $520) in 2024, while Pixel accounted for just 2%. However, Google appears committed to growing its presence. The company has recently begun manufacturing Pixel smartphones in India, a move expected to boost local availability and potentially lower prices through reduced import costs. Currently, Pixel devices in India are priced from approximately $360 to $1,900, while Apple’s iPhones range from $520 to $2,100. A Market Ripe for Growth India is home to roughly 712 million smartphone users and continues to be one of the most attractive growth markets for global tech companies. With a rising middle class, increasing digital adoption, and government support for local manufacturing, India offers considerable opportunities for brands looking to scale. By launching direct sales and exploring retail store openings, Google is positioning itself for a stronger competitive stance in India’s evolving premium device ecosystem.–REUTERS

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UPS Enhances Service in Johor to Accelerate Global Delivery

SENAI: UPS (NYSE: UPS), one of the world’s largest package delivery and supply chain management companies, has enhanced its services in Johor in a move that significantly reduces delivery times and boosts global connectivity for UPS customers across the state. The new operation, which consists of a bonded warehouse at Senai International Airport and a package centre in Senai, is located in one of Johor’s leading manufacturing and industry clusters and at the heart of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). It means imports and exports to Johor from countries across Asia Pacific can now enjoy next-day delivery, while imports and exports from Europe and the U.S. will arrive in as little as two business days. This is a time saving of one business day, facilitated by improvements in connectivity between Johor and Singapore’s Changi Airport. “In line with the growth possibilities presented by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, we’re excited to open our new Johor service at a time when there are opportunities for businesses to expand and build greater resilience into their supply chains,” said Ingrid Sidiadinoto, senior managing director UPS Malaysia. “Johor is an important industrial centre in southern Malaysia, particularly for manufacturing and high-tech companies. Being able to respond to orders quickly is critical in these sectors and now UPS customers in Johor can send and receive deliveries to and from anywhere in the world in two business days or less. This offers the fast and flexible access businesses need to our industry leading global network to make them more responsive, more resilient and more competitive.” The new Johor operation underscores UPS’s continued commitment to supporting businesses in Malaysia by providing better access to the company’s world class integrated global logistics network. “The establishment of UPS’s new Johor operation reflects Malaysia’s growing prominence as a regional logistics and supply chain hub,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, chief executive officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). “Strategically located in Senai, the facility benefits from robust multimodal connectivity, including well-established highways, rail links, and proximity to key ports, making it an ideal gateway for integrated logistics solutions. “This milestone complements the government’s MADANI vision to position Malaysia as a high-value, innovation-driven economy. MIDA will continue to support companies like UPS, fostering their sustained growth within Malaysia’s vibrant logistics ecosystem.” This is the latest in a series of investments by UPS in its Malaysia network. In 2024, the company introduced a service enhancement to allow deliveries from Johor to over 50 countries across the Americas to be completed in as little as two business days. Later in the year UPS also announced a partnership with Ninja Van to provide UPS’s international express services at any of Ninja Van Malaysia’s 52 stores across Klang Valley

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Thai PM Tables US$115 Billion Budget to Counter Tepid Economic Growth

BANGKOK: Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Wednesday proposed a 3.78 trillion baht (US$115.5 billion) budget for the 2026 fiscal year to parliament, in a bid to stimulate Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy as it grapples with sluggish growth and looming external risks—chief among them, steep US tariffs. The draft budget bill, which will be debated over the next four days, represents a 0.7% increase in government spending from the previous fiscal year and aims to narrow the deficit to 860 billion baht, or 4.3% of GDP, down from 4.5% in the current financial year ending September 2025. “The deficit budget policy is aimed at maintaining economic stability, including supporting a recovery and promoting growth at an appropriate level,” the bill reads, signalling the administration’s intention to carefully balance stimulus with fiscal responsibility. The proposed budget assumes GDP growth between 2.3% and 3.3% in both 2025 and 2026, with inflation forecast to remain muted, ranging between 0.5% and 1.5%. These targets come as Thailand continues to lag behind regional peers. In 2024, the economy expanded by just 2.5%, and in the first quarter of 2025, it recorded year-on-year growth of 3.1%. However, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) recently downgraded its full-year outlook to between 1.3% and 2.3%, citing external headwinds. One of the most pressing concerns is the expiration of a US tariff moratorium, which could result in a 36% tariff on Thai exports to the United States—Thailand’s largest export market—if a deal is not struck by July. While the baseline US tariff rate stands at 10% under current provisions, Thai goods could be significantly disadvantaged if negotiations fail. The budget does not yet factor in the potential fallout from these tariffs, raising questions among analysts about whether the fiscal planning is adequately forward-looking. Economists suggest that any significant disruption to export performance could force the government to revise spending or introduce supplementary measures later in the year. Despite these uncertainties, the bill is expected to pass in parliament, although political tensions within the ruling coalition may complicate proceedings. The Pheu Thai-led government is facing growing friction with its largest partner, the Bhumjaithai Party, particularly over the controversial casino bill, which seeks to legalise gambling within integrated entertainment complexes to drive tourism and generate new revenue streams. Disagreements have also emerged over constitutional reform and cannabis policy. The latter remains a contentious topic since cannabis was decriminalised in 2022, with growing calls—especially from conservative factions—for tighter regulation on its sale and use. A failure to pass the budget would have significant political ramifications. Under Thai constitutional law, Prime Minister Paetongtarn could either resign and allow parliament to select a new leader or dissolve the lower house and call for a snap election—moves that could unsettle markets and delay economic policymaking. The government’s commitment to deficit financing to spur economic momentum may be necessary, but it also comes at a time when global financial conditions are tightening and investor sentiment remains cautious. Analysts are watching closely to see how the administration navigates external shocks, internal policy divisions, and the broader challenge of accelerating structural reform in an economy long dependent on tourism and exports. As parliament begins debate, all eyes will be on whether the government can secure enough political support to implement its budget vision—and if so, whether it will be enough to steer Thailand’s economy toward more resilient and inclusive growth in the years ahead.

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TotalEnergies and RGE Partner to Develop Major Solar and Storage Project in Indonesia

JAKARTA/ SINGAPORE: In a landmark collaboration to boost Southeast Asia’s renewable energy ambitions, TotalEnergies and RGE have entered into a Co-Investment Agreement to jointly develop a utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant and battery energy storage system (BESS) in Indonesia’s Riau Province. The agreement was formalised through their 50:50 joint venture, Singa Renewables (Singa), and marks a significant step towards enhancing regional energy security and sustainability. Signed at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta and witnessed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron, the agreement highlights high-level bilateral support for the project. The development will be rolled out in phases, delivering green electricity for domestic and cross-border consumption. “Our utility-scale project underscores TotalEnergies’ commitment to supporting the region’s energy transition while ensuring energy security,” said Helle Kristoffersen, President Asia and Member of the Executive Committee, TotalEnergies. “This initiative will contribute meaningfully to the ASEAN Power Grid vision.” Imelda Tanoto, Managing Director at RGE, added, “This collaboration is closely aligned with Indonesia’s National Transformation Strategy (Asta Cita), supporting green energy self-sufficiency and value-added services for its bio-based industries. Beyond decarbonisation, it will help create skilled local jobs and drive long-term economic value.” Driving Green Industry and Regional Integration Once completed, the project will: Supply clean energy to green industrial complexes in Riau Province, supporting Indonesia’s decarbonisation and economic growth goals. Export solar energy to Singapore, strengthening regional renewable energy cooperation and contributing to ASEAN’s clean energy agenda. Catalysing Economic and Workforce Transformation The initiative is expected to: Position Indonesia as a renewable energy hub, building local expertise in solar, energy storage, engineering, and grid integration. Enhance regional energy integration by supporting ASEAN’s cross-border clean energy ambitions. With robust governmental backing and a strong commitment to sustainable development, the TotalEnergies-RGE partnership represents a bold move towards transforming Southeast Asia’s energy landscape.

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NRW.Global Business Opens ASEAN Desk in KL to Boost German Trade

KUALA LUMPUR: North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany’s most important economic region, is strengthening its international presence in Southeast Asia. The state-owned trade and investment agency, NRW.Global Business is opening a new ASEAN Service Desk in Kuala Lumpur to signal the intensification of economic relations between NRW and the ASEAN countries. The official opening took place today as part of a business roundtable with the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC). The ASEAN countries are among the world’s most dynamic growth regions. Their economic relations with Germany are growing in importance. With the Service Desk, NRW.Global Business is establishing its first permanent point of contact in the region. The Service Desk will provide companies and potential investors from the ASEAN region with direct support on site, ranging from comprehensive information about NRW as a business location and investment conditions to practical assistance with specific location projects.    Felix Neugart, CEO of NRW.Global Business said, “With our ASEAN Service Desk, we aim to raise the profile of NRW as an innovative and attractive business location in the ASEAN region, intensify bilateral trade and investment relations and promote cooperation in future-oriented areas such as digitalisation, sustainable technologies and research. The ASEAN countries are important partners for us: They offer new sales and procurement markets as well as opportunities to establish business contacts with innovative companies and institutions. By establishing a direct presence, we are creating a point of contact to better leverage this potential together with local partners.”   The Business Roundtable on “Business Opportunities between NRW and Malaysia – Introducing NRW.Global Business ASEAN Service Desk” provides the framework for the official opening. Here, companies, local authorities, economic development agencies and multipliers from Malaysia and NRW come together to discuss opportunities for investment, cooperation and market development.   Jan Noether, Executive Director of the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC), said, “We are delighted to be implementing the ASEAN Service Desk together with NRW.Global Business. NRW offers diverse opportunities for companies from the ASEAN region and the new service desk will significantly contribute to facilitating market access and further deepening relationships.”  

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Toyota Becomes Top Shareholder in Joby with US$250m Investment

TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp has invested US$250 million in Joby Aviation Inc, making it the largest shareholder in the US-based air taxi developer with a 15.3% stake. The funding marks the first half of a previously announced US$500 million commitment to the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company. The investment, originally set to close in 2024, is part of Toyota’s total pledged funding of US$894 million in Joby. The second tranche is expected later this year. The move strengthens Toyota’s position in the emerging urban air mobility sector. “This milestone further cements the collaboration and alignment between our two companies,” said Tetsuo Ogawa, CEO of Toyota North America. Joby shares rose 3.5% to US$7.12 in after-hours trading following the announcement. The stock is down roughly 15% year-to-date. Joby is among several firms developing battery-powered eVTOL aircraft for short-range urban travel. The company has shifted its commercial launch target to early 2026 in Dubai, pending regulatory approvals from the US FAA and global authorities. Toyota began backing Joby in 2020, following an earlier investment by its venture capital arm in 2018.

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