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iCents Group To Raise RM27 Mil From Ace Market IPO To Drive Business Expansion

Cleanroom and other facility services provider, iCents Group Holdings Berhad (“iCents Group”) has successfully launched its prospectus today in conjunction with its initial public offering (“IPO”) exercise and listing on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (“Listing”) (“Bursa Securities”). iCents Group, through its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Group”), is principally involved in the provision of cleanroom services, covering engineering, procurement, construction, and testing and commissioning (“EPCC”) of cleanrooms. The Group also manufactures cleanroom fixtures and related products. In addition to its cleanroom expertise, the Group provides a range of other facility services, including the hook-up of machinery and equipment, supply and installation of heavy-duty ceiling systems, construction services, and maintenance services for other facilities. The Group’s services cater to highly technical industries including but not limited to, semiconductor and electronics, data centres, life sciences, and pharmaceutical product manufacturing. Managing Director of iCents Group, Ir. Ts. Vincent Ong Mum Fei said, “The launch of our prospectus today marks a significant milestone for iCents Group, underscoring our commitment to growth and excellence. With a decade of experience and a proven track record in delivering cleanroom projects for several multinational corporations, we are ready to embark into a new phase of our growth journey and strengthen our market presence. The IPO proceeds will support key initiatives towards our business expansion plans including the purchase of machinery and equipment to enhance our in-house manufacturing capabilities, strengthening and expanding our presence across foreign geographical markets such as Indonesia, Singapore, and Sarawak, as well as the funding for working capital requirements.” Executive Director of iCents Group, Mr. Foo Siang Leng said, “We are confident in the long-term prospects of iCents Group. Growth and investment in data centres, and high-growth, high-value industries such as electronics and electrical (“E&E”), pharmaceutical and others will continue to drive demand for cleanroom services, which play a critical role in ensuring product integrity and process reliability in sensitive manufacturing operations. Malaysia is accelerating its efforts to transform its industrial landscape and attract high-value investments, through initiatives such as the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the RM25 billion National Semiconductor Strategy. With growing demand across these industries, we believe our integrated capabilities position us strongly to grow alongside the nation’s technology driven ambitions”. As at 5 June 2025, the Group recorded an unbilled order book of RM93.21 million, comprising RM53.53 million from the Group’s cleanroom services segment and RM39.68 million from the Group’s other facility services segment. The expected RM27.00 million IPO proceeds to be raised are set to be utilised in the following manner: Utilisation of IPO Proceeds RM’000 % Purchase of machinery and equipment 4,675 17.31 Business expansion 3,022 11.19 Product development 1,715 6.35 Marketing activities 1,500 5.56 Working capital 12,088 44.77 Estimated listing expenses 4,000 14.82 Total 27,000 100.00 iCents Group’s IPO exercise encompasses a public issuance of 112.50 million new ordinary shares (“Issue Shares”), representing approximately 22.50% of its enlarged issued share capital upon Listing, as well as an offer for sale of 30.00 million existing shares (“Offer Shares”), representing approximately 6.00% of its enlarged issued share capital. Out of the Public Issue of 112.50 million Issue Shares, 25.00 million Issue Shares will be made available to the Malaysian public via balloting; 10.00 million Issue Shares will be made available to its eligible directors, employees and persons who have contributed to the success of the Group; 15.00 million Issue Shares will be made available by way of private placement to selected investors, while the remaining 62.50 million Issue Shares will be made available by way of private placement to Bumiputera investors approved by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry. Additionally, all 30.00 million Offer Shares to be offered for sale, will be offered to selected investors by way of private placement. In terms of financial performance, the Group’s revenue increased from RM55.78 million in the financial year ended 30 June 2022 (“FYE 2022”) to RM80.70 million in the financial year ended 30 June 2024 (“FYE 2024”). Over the same period, the Group’s profit after tax (“PAT”) rose from RM2.90 million to RM7.02 million, representing a compound annual growth rate of 55.57%. For the six-month financial period ended 31 December 2024 (“FPE 2025”), the Group recorded a revenue of RM43.93 million and PAT of RM5.03 million. iCents Group will have a market capitalisation of RM120.00 million upon Listing based on an enlarged issued share capital of 500.00 million shares and an IPO price of RM0.24 per Share. Following the prospectus launch, applications for the public issue are open from today and will be closed on 2 July 2025 at 5:00 pm. The Group is scheduled to be listed on the ACE Market of Bursa Securities on 17 July 2025. Alliance Islamic Bank Berhad is the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Sole Underwriter, and Placement Agent for the IPO exercise.

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Sunway Sanctuary Celebrates Two Years of Milestones, Awards and Innovation

Sunway Sanctuary, the nation’s premier senior living residence today marked its second anniversary with a unique, one-night media sleepover that also served to highlight the company’s innovative offerings, award-winning achievements and its ceaseless commitment to enhancing senior living. The event brought to life significant milestones realised within just two years as Sunway Sanctuary looks to scale up its mission to promote proactive ageing and reinvent retirement living. The residence has witnessed continuous growth as a trusted choice for vibrant, holistic senior living as evidenced by an increase in occupancy rate from 30% in 2024 to 50% in 2025 across 235 rooms. Sunway Sanctuary also unveiled wellness-based individual programmes, which include a Post-Cardiac Recovery package for patients recovering from a heart surgery for rehabilitation purposes and to ensure residents receive dedicated support as they transition from hospital to home. The Advanced Assisted Care package, meanwhile,comprises various levels of nursing care with options to have upgraded facilities as well as personalised, one-to-one attention. The residence is also expanding its health tourism solutions by offering stay packages with wellness screenings in partnership with Sunway Medical Centre, for international guests. Dr. Khoo Chow Huat, Managing Director, Hospital & Healthcare Operations of Sunway Healthcare Group said: “The expansion of specialised care packages and rehabilitation services aligns with our mission to enhance senior wellness and mobility. We are excited to introduce these new offerings to ensure holistic healthcare solutions for our residents.” To underline its commitment to integrated healthcare solutions for seniors, Sunway Sanctuary has collaborated with Sunway Home Healthcare to station a full-time physician to provide residents with seamless access to medical consultation, routine screenings and preventive care within the premises. The event also witnessed the launch of a new rehabilitation facility at the Wellness Centre, equipped with senior-friendly technology to enhance mobility and independence. The facility features smart, air-resistance HUR machines used for strength training and exercises that improve strength, balance and mobility, supporting seniors in regaining confidence and independence in daily life. The machines are digitally-controlled to allow therapists to customise and track exercise and rehabilitation sessions. These safe, adjustable devices are easy on aging joints, facilitating low impact movement even for those with limited strength. Other facility services consist of pain management sessions, hot/cold therapy, a combination therapy machine with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerves Stimulation (TENS) and ultrasound treatment for physiotherapy purposes, parallel bars, walking aids for safe gait training, as well as InBody analysis to measure sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and function). As part of its’ commitment to enhancing comfort and care, Sunway Sanctuary has also introduced advanced hardware upgrades, including state-of-the-art electrical mobile beds with convenient over-bed tables coupled with in-room vital signs monitoring service, ensuring residents’ well-being is always a priority. To further elevate the experience, the team proudly unveiled the Signature Floor—a thoughtfully-designed and luxurious space that blends comfort with elegance, offering discerning seniors a premium living option with a touch of everyday warmth. These developments, as well as Sunway Sanctuary’s overarching aim to redefine senior living in Malaysia, saw it recently win its second consecutive Facility of the Year – Active Ageing and inaugural Operator of the Year – Senior Living awards at the 13th Eldercare Innovation Awards 2025 in Singapore. The residence’s leadership in senior living excellence across the Asia-Pacific region was also recognised when it was shortlisted as a finalist in three other categories – Operator of the Year (Active Ageing), Innovation of the Year (Active Ageing on Lifestyle Programme) and Innovation of the Year (Social Engagement). “As we celebrate two years of growth and innovation, Sunway Sanctuary remains committed to redefining senior living with world-class care and hospitality. Our latest enhancements reflect our dedication to providing seniors with a vibrant, enriching lifestyle,” said Mr. Leonard Theng, General Manager of Sunway Sanctuary. As Sunway Sanctuary continues to set new benchmarks in senior living with unparalleled healthcare, hospitality and lifestyle experiences, the anniversary event underscored the residence’s commitment to innovation, excellence and all-inclusive care while simultaneously facilitating an enriching, stimulating environment for active seniors.

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ACCA Unveils Redesigned Qualification to Equip Malaysian Talent for a Redefined Accountancy Profession

KUALA LUMPUR : Global accountancy body ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has announced a major redesign of its globally recognised ACCA Qualification, marking a significant step in redefining the accountancy profession for a future shaped by AI, sustainability, and business transformation. The newly announced Future ACCA Qualification reflects a transformative shift in the role of accountants—from financial stewards to enablers of sustainable business, ethical leadership, and technological advancement. The redesign recognises the increasing expectation of professional accountants to create long-term value for both business and society, while remaining agile amid global economic uncertainty. The redesigned qualification, to be rolled out from mid-2027, builds on the strengths of the current ACCA Qualification, which is highly regarded among employers, regulators, and learning institutions across Malaysia. Helen Brand, Chief Executive of ACCA, said: “Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are now expected to lead on sustainability, support digital transformation, and contribute to social value creation. The changes we’re making to the ACCA Qualification reflect this expanded role—and are designed to equip the next generation of professionals with the right blend of skills, ethics and insights needed to succeed.” The changes follow extensive consultation with employers, members, tuition providers and students globally, including input from Malaysian stakeholders. The redesigned structure introduces a fully integrated learning and assessment model across all three levels of the qualification, with content shaped around real-world employability, business relevance, and future-readiness. Key enhancements include: Employability Modules at every level, offering simulated work experience in areas such as digital technology, ethics, sustainability, and business leadership AI-powered learning journeys and personalised digital mentoring tools to support individual progression A new Data Science Professional exam option at the Strategic Professional level Enhanced awards and designations recognise achievement and allow students to demonstrate their skills to employers at every stage of their ACCA journey Reza Ali, ACCA Director of Innovation in Learning and Assessment, added: ‘The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers in Malaysia. It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability. ‘The redesigned qualification comes together as a unified experience at each of its three levels with learning guidance and support, assessments, employability support, and help to develop skills. Students will benefit from tailored learning journeys supported by AI technology and a digital mentor.’ Malaysian students currently pursuing the ACCA Qualification will undergo a smooth and fully supported transition. All completed achievements will be recognised, with no disadvantage in terms of progression or additional costs under the new structure. Through a collaboration with the University of London, ACCA students will continue to have the opportunity to earn a globally respected BSc (Hons) in Professional Accountancy alongside their professional studies. In line with ACCA’s long-standing commitment to inclusion and opportunity, the refreshed Foundations in Accountancy route will continue to offer a flexible entry point for individuals without prior academic qualifications. For more information on the Future ACCA Qualification, visit https://www.accaglobal.com/my/en.html.

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Indonesia Set to Mandate E-Commerce Platforms to Withhold Seller Taxes

JAKARTA : The Indonesian government is preparing to enforce new regulations that would compel e-commerce platforms to withhold taxes on behalf of their sellers, in a renewed effort to enhance state revenue and create parity with traditional retail businesses. According to industry sources briefed by tax authorities and an official document reviewed by Reuters, the directive could be formally introduced as early as next month. This upcoming regulation is expected to apply to leading digital commerce operators such as ByteDance’s TikTok Shop, Tokopedia, Shopee (owned by Sea Limited), Alibaba-backed Lazada, Blibli, and Bukalapak. These platforms would be required to deduct and remit tax from seller income directly to the government. The policy, aimed at sellers with an annual turnover between 500 million rupiah and 4.8 billion rupiah, proposes a 0.5% tax on sales income. These sellers, currently classified as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are already obliged to pay the tax independently. The shift in responsibility to the platforms is intended to improve compliance and streamline collection. The proposal, however, has met resistance from within the e-commerce sector. Operators argue the requirement will substantially increase administrative burdens and potentially drive sellers away from digital marketplaces. Concerns have also been raised about the ability of Indonesia’s tax infrastructure—currently affected by technical challenges following a recent system upgrade—to manage the anticipated influx of data. This is not the first time such a policy has been considered. In late 2018, a similar regulation was introduced mandating online marketplaces to share seller data and facilitate tax compliance. It was retracted three months later amid significant industry opposition. A presentation prepared by the Directorate General of Taxes and shared with platform operators confirms the government’s intention to reintroduce the mechanism, this time with stricter enforcement and a proposed penalty structure for platforms that fail to submit timely reports. The Ministry of Finance, which will oversee the implementation of the regulation, declined to comment. The Indonesian E-Commerce Association (idEA) refrained from confirming the plan’s details but acknowledged that, if enacted, the policy would have implications for millions of online sellers. Indonesia’s state revenue performance has been under pressure in recent months. Official data reveals a year-on-year decline of 11.4% in revenue for the January to May period, amounting to 995.3 trillion rupiah (US$61 billion), attributed to low commodity prices, subdued economic growth, and delays linked to the tax system upgrade. Despite these fiscal headwinds, Indonesia’s e-commerce sector continues to thrive. A joint report by Google, Singapore’s Temasek, and consultancy Bain & Company estimated the nation’s gross merchandise value reached US$65 billion in 2023, with projections pointing to a rise to US$150 billion by 2030. As regulatory authorities weigh new measures to stabilise revenue flows, the proposed withholding tax regulation signals a strategic pivot towards greater oversight of the digital economy, with significant implications for the business models of online platforms operating in Southeast Asia’s largest market. -Reuters

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Starbucks Denies Full Sale of China Operations Amid Market Speculation

Starbucks Corporation has stated it is not currently considering a full divestiture of its operations in China, following reports from Chinese financial publication Caixin that suggested otherwise. The original report did not identify its sources, but indicated that preliminary discussions had taken place with multiple prospective buyers. According to Caixin, the US-based coffee chain initiated a formal exploratory process in May, engaging more than a dozen interested parties. Three individuals with knowledge of the matter, who requested anonymity due to the non-public nature of the information, confirmed that Starbucks had asked respondents to submit detailed information by the end of last week. Prospective bidders were requested to address a range of topics including corporate culture, management style, sustainability initiatives, treatment of employees, as well as the proposed deal structure and strategic vision for Starbucks China. Goldman Sachs is advising the Seattle-headquartered company on the process. Two sources indicated that Starbucks has not reached a decision on whether to sell a controlling or minority stake in the business, or whether it would retain certain segments, such as supply chain operations. Starbucks declined to elaborate on the status of the review. Goldman Sachs has not responded to media requests for comment. The company made a significant investment in the Chinese market with the opening of its ¥1.5 billion (US$209 million) Coffee Innovation Park in Kunshan, near Shanghai, in 2023. The 80,000-square-metre facility serves as a roasting and supply hub for all Starbucks outlets in China. More than 20 organisations, including several private equity firms, reportedly responded to the initial enquiry, one of the sources said. Two sources confirmed that Starbucks plans to create a shortlist of potential investors for the next stage of the process. “The purpose was to let everyone tell their story freely and choose whatever the best prospect is and proceed,” one individual familiar with the matter stated. As previously reported by Reuters in February, firms such as KKR & Co, FountainVest Partners and PAG are among those expressing interest in a potential stake. The strategic review comes as Starbucks faces intensifying competition in the Chinese market. According to Euromonitor International, the company’s market share has declined from 34 per cent in 2019 to just 14 per cent in 2024. The company is under growing pressure from lower-cost domestic competitors, including Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee, who continue to capture price-conscious consumers. E-commerce platforms offering subsidised pricing and one-hour delivery services have further driven average prices down, with some customers now paying less than ¥5 per delivered cup. In response to market dynamics, Starbucks implemented its first-ever price reduction in China earlier this month, cutting the prices of select non-coffee iced beverages by an average of ¥5. -Reuters

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China Airlines Delays Aircraft Retirement Amid Boeing 787 Delivery Setbacks

China Airlines, Taiwan’s national carrier, has announced a postponement in the retirement of some of its older aircraft due to significant delays in the delivery of Boeing 787-9 jets. The deferral, which could trigger compensation from Boeing, marks a notable disruption in the airline’s fleet renewal strategy. The carrier, Taiwan’s oldest airline established in 1959, is undergoing a major fleet modernisation programme. In a procurement valued at nearly US$12 billion at list prices, the airline split long-haul aircraft orders between Boeing and Airbus last year. As part of the renewal, China Airlines ordered 24 Boeing 787 aircraft, comprising 18 of the 787-9 variant and six 787-10s, to serve regional and select long-haul routes. Chairman George Kao, who assumed the role in March, confirmed that delays—particularly in the 787-9 deliveries—have impacted plans to replace ageing Airbus A330s and Boeing 737-800s with 787-9s and A321neos. As a result, aircraft originally scheduled for retirement or lease return will continue in operation, with some leases now set to be extended. “We are at present being greatly impacted,” Kao told Reuters from the airline’s headquarters in Taoyuan, home to Taiwan’s primary international gateway. Boeing has yet to provide China Airlines with a definitive delivery schedule, though initial shipments are now expected to commence towards the end of 2025. Kao noted that the contract with Boeing includes provisions for compensation in the event of delivery delays attributed to supply chain issues. “This is written into the contract,” he said. “If it’s in the supply chain, the responsibility is Boeing’s, and Boeing has to provide some compensation. But if it’s not, then there is no compensation. It’s all recorded in the contract.” Boeing has not responded publicly to the developments. The airline is not alone in experiencing delivery challenges. Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), recently described forecasted aircraft delivery delays through the remainder of the decade as “off-the-chart unacceptable.” Despite the disruption, Kao remains optimistic about China Airlines’ growth trajectory. The arrival of more fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the Boeing 777-9 and Airbus A350-1000—both ordered last year—will support expansion on routes to destinations including London and New York. Additionally, the opening of the new third terminal at Taoyuan International Airport later this year is expected to enhance capacity and passenger experience. Further fleet development is also under consideration for subsidiary Mandarin Airlines, which currently operates ATR-72 turboprops on domestic routes. Kao revealed plans to equip Mandarin with jet aircraft to strengthen regional operations from Taiwan’s southern and central regions. Discussions are underway with lessors, although specific aircraft models have not been disclosed. Competition in Taiwan’s aviation sector continues to intensify. In addition to long-standing rival EVA Air, China Airlines faces growing pressure from emerging player Starlux Airlines, which recently expanded its fleet with an order for 10 additional A350s. Kao, however, sees continued opportunity, citing Taiwan’s strategic geographic position as a competitive advantage for transit traffic. He noted that Taoyuan airport’s more manageable size offers a favourable alternative to larger or more politically complicated hubs such as Seoul Incheon, Tokyo, or Hong Kong. “Our passengers are not all Taiwanese; many are transit. Because Taiwan’s location, connecting the Pacific to all of Asia, is really very convenient,” Kao said. -Reuters

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Dong Yang and BLT Forge Strategic Alliance to Propel ASEAN Smart Elevator Growth

Dong Yang Elevator (M) Sdn Bhd has entered into a strategic partnership with Brilliant Elevator Co. Ltd (BLT), the flagship brand of China’s Shenyang Yuanda Intelligent Industrial Group, marking a significant step in the advancement of smart elevator solutions and regional growth in Malaysia. This collaboration is a core component of Yuanda Group’s global expansion blueprint, which includes the establishment of a Southeast Asian regional logistics and smart service centre in Malaysia. The facility will consolidate functions such as warehouse logistics, spare parts distribution, intelligent maintenance, remote monitoring and customer service, improving response times and enhancing coordination across the region. BLT officially launched its brand and product portfolio in Malaysia during an event held on Tuesday in Shah Alam. The launch, which BLT described as a strategic milestone in its ASEAN market expansion, drew over 200 attendees, including government officials and professionals from the construction, development, engineering and maintenance sectors. Yeow Ewe Hor, Chief Executive Officer of Dong Yang Elevator, underscored the collaboration’s significance for the future of Malaysia’s urban infrastructure and construction ecosystem. He stated that the partnership will play a pivotal role in the country’s transformation into smart and sustainable cities. “As the driving force behind Malaysia’s urban progress, we aim to turn blueprints into communities and dreams into national landmarks,” Yeow said. “The vertical transportation industry is at a turning point, moving toward safer, greener and smarter systems. To thrive, we must address three central challenges: safety, sustainability and innovation.” Yeow added that Dong Yang has worked closely with BLT since 2008, selling more than 400 elevators and maintaining over 1,300 units across Malaysia. The company has actively adopted global standards, green technologies and intelligent maintenance systems to ensure high service quality and operational efficiency. He reaffirmed Dong Yang’s commitment to ongoing cooperation with government bodies such as the Public Works Department and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health to shape the intelligent vertical mobility landscape in the country. Founded in 2002, Dong Yang has established itself as a leading Malaysian supplier of elevators, escalators and home lifts. Liu Ruisheng, General Manager of International Sales at BLT, highlighted the company’s deep-rooted presence in Malaysia, which spans 18 years, and outlined its next phase of strategic development. “We plan to establish a regional logistics hub in Malaysia to leverage its geographic and industrial strengths. This will support our broader ambition to enhance global brand development and better serve Southeast Asia,” he said. BLT’s export business has demonstrated strong growth in recent years, with exports surpassing RMB580 million in 2024. The company now serves over 140 countries and regions, securing its position among China’s top elevator exporters. In a further display of its global ambitions, Yuanda Group has successfully launched a joint venture factory in Saudi Arabia, which has become a benchmark in high-end smart manufacturing. The group is set to begin operations at a new assembly plant in the United States this year, advancing its goal of building a comprehensive global platform for smart, digital and green vertical transportation systems. Saudi Arabia and Malaysia are central to this global strategy, serving as dual operational engines. Looking ahead, the group intends to roll out local assembly initiatives and talent development programmes in Malaysia, transitioning from a traditional equipment supplier model to a full-scale smart building solutions provider. The globalisation drive is already underway, with BLT’s Global Brand Tour reaching key markets such as Vietnam, Saudi Arabia and Mexico. Liu emphasised that international expansion extends beyond exporting products, encompassing brand systems, technological innovation and management expertise. “Malaysia will serve as our bridgehead into ASEAN. Our collaboration with Dong Yang will elevate us from being well-rooted to regionally leading,” he said. -The Star

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JPX CEO Hiromi Yamaji Reappointed

Hiromi Yamaji has been reappointed as Chief Executive Officer of Japan Exchange Group Inc (JPX), although shareholder support dropped to its lowest level on record amid ongoing governance concerns and underperformance of the company’s shares. At the annual general meeting held last week, 82.11% of shareholders voted in favour of Yamaji’s reappointment, according to a regulatory filing released yesterday. While the result still reflects a strong majority, it marks a significant decline from the 94.09% approval recorded in 2022 and the 88.88% support in 2023. The drop in support follows a challenging year for JPX, during which the company’s share price fell 18.6%, sharply underperforming the broader Topix index, which gained 1.6% over the same period. The decline in investor confidence has been further compounded by governance issues, including a high-profile insider trading case. In December, Japan’s securities watchdog filed a criminal complaint against a former Tokyo Stock Exchange employee—under JPX’s umbrella—and his father, alleging insider trading. The controversy prompted Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS), a prominent US proxy advisory firm, to recommend voting against Yamaji’s reappointment, citing governance failings and the need for accountability. Despite these setbacks, Yamaji will continue to lead JPX, tasked with restoring investor trust and addressing governance standards as scrutiny intensifies from both domestic and international stakeholders. -Bloomberg

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Uni Wall Secures RM89.64 Million Pavilion Damansara Heights Facade Contract

Uni Wall Aps Holdings Bhd has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Uni Wall Facade Sdn Bhd, has been awarded a contract valued at RM89.64 million for facade works at Pavilion Damansara Heights. According to a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the award was granted by BUCG (M) Sdn Bhd. The scope of the contract includes the design, supply, fabrication and installation of facade elements, specifically aluminium and glass works. The project is scheduled to commence on 15 April 2025 and is expected to be completed within a 40-month timeframe. Uni Wall stated that the contract is anticipated to contribute positively to the group’s earnings throughout its duration. The company also confirmed that the project will not affect its share capital or the shareholdings of its major shareholders. -Bernama

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UOB Malaysia Prices RM750 Million Sukuk Amid Overwhelming Demand

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd (UOB Malaysia) has successfully priced a RM750 million issuance under its existing RM5 billion Sukuk Wakalah Programme, marking a significant development in its funding strategy and reinforcing investor confidence in its long-term prospects. In an official statement, the bank confirmed that the Basel III-compliant Tier 2 subordinated Islamic medium-term notes (Tier 2 Sukuk Wakalah) were priced on 19 June at a profit rate of 3.85% per annum. This reflects a 36 basis point spread over the seven-year Malaysian Government Securities (MGS) benchmark. The sukuk, which carries an AA1 rating by RAM Ratings, is scheduled for issuance on 3 July 2025 and will mature on 3 July 2037. An optional redemption date has been set for 2 July 2032. Initially targeting RM500 million, the offering was upsized to RM750 million in response to robust demand from a broad base of more than 20 institutional investors. The investor mix included insurance companies, fund managers, government-linked investment entities, as well as domestic and international banks and private banking institutions. Ng Wei Wei, Chief Executive Officer of UOB Malaysia, stated that the upsizing of the sukuk issuance underscores market confidence in the bank’s credit fundamentals and strategic direction. “This transaction also demonstrates the depth and maturity of Malaysia’s Islamic debt capital market, which continues to draw strong interest from a wide range of quality investors,” she said. “It reflects both the resilience of the country’s financial ecosystem and the strength of its economic fundamentals.” UOB Malaysia and CIMB Investment Bank acted as joint lead managers for the issuance. -The Edge

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