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Milieu Insight and FemTech Association Asia Launch New Research Providing Insights into the Femtech Landscape in Southeast Asia

SINGAPORE: Milieu Insight, the premier survey software company in Southeast Asia, and FemTech Association Asia, the region’s leading advisory and industry network dedicated to enhancing women’s health through technology solutions, are delighted to announce their strategic research partnership. This collaboration has culminated in the release of the highly anticipated 2024 report, “Insights into the Femtech Landscape in Southeast Asia (SEA).” This comprehensive report offers an in-depth exploration of femtech adoption, awareness, and attitudes across six key Southeast Asian countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. The study covers a wide range of topics including: – Femtech awareness and familiarity – Usage and spending habits among current femtech users – Future intentions of femtech non-users – Women’s health education – Openness in discussing women’s health issues – Media and religious influences – Maternal and reproductive health – Hormonal health (menopause) Notably, this is the first quantified measure of consumer value for femtech in each of these markets. The report reveals that women in Southeast Asia primarily receive education on three key health topics during their upbringing: menstrual health, puberty, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, discussing women’s health issues publicly is often culturally taboo, with 52% of women expressing concerns about judgment and shame. As femtech continues to rise as a crucial sector in healthcare, this report is an invaluable resource for stakeholders, policymakers, and industry players aiming to understand and address the unique consumer perspectives within the Southeast Asian femtech landscape. Key Findings from the Report Include: – Insights into femtech awareness and familiarity across different demographics. – Analysis of usage patterns and spending habits among current femtech users, highlighting preferences and trends. – Future intentions of femtech non-users, offering valuable insights for market expansion and outreach strategies. – Evaluation of women’s health education and the impact of societal factors such as media and religion. – Examination of maternal and reproductive health issues and the role of technology in addressing them. – Understanding hormonal health concerns, particularly menopause, and the demand for innovative solutions. “We are excited to partner with FemTech Association Asia to unveil these comprehensive insights into the femtech landscape in Southeast Asia,” said Juda Kanaprach, Co-Founder and CCO at Milieu Insight. “This report not only highlights the current state of femtech adoption but also lays the groundwork for future advancements and collaborations to improve women’s health outcomes across the region. Our aim is to prioritize a localized business approach within Southeast Asia, respect cultural sensitivities, and foster strategic partnerships.” “Empowering women to own their healthcare journey by leveraging technology is at the core of our mission at FemTech Association Asia,” said Lindsay Davis, Founder of FemTech Association Asia. “The findings of this report will inform our advisory and advocacy efforts and inspire innovation and investment in femtech solutions tailored to the unique needs of this region.” Juda Kanaprach will present the findings from this report at FemTech Connect Asia, a pioneering roundtable event where women’s health and innovation converge in Asia. The event will be held on 20 & 21 June 2024 in Singapore, bringing together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, multinational corporate executives, investors, and enthusiasts from across Asia, all focused on the femtech industry. The “Insights into the Femtech Landscape in Southeast Asia” report is now available for purchase on the Milieu Insight and FemTech Association Asia websites.

News

EcoWorld Malaysia Sells 123-Acre Industrial Land to Microsoft Payments for RM402.3 Mil

PETALING JAYA: Eco World Development Group Bhd (EcoWorld Malaysia) is selling 123.141 acres of industrial land in Kulai, Iskandar Malaysia, to Microsoft Payments (M) Sdn Bhd for RM402.3 million. This land is part of EcoWorld Malaysia’s Eco Business Park VI (EBP VI) development. EcoWorld Malaysia has seen a significant increase in demand for its industrial products within its Eco Business Parks. This demand has resulted in a 68% compounded annual growth rate from financial year 2020 (FY20) to FY23 for the industrial segment, with sales exceeding RM1 billion in FY23 alone, according to a filing with Bursa Malaysia. The company plans to use part of the RM402.3 million from the sale for developing the land and covering associated expenses over the next 24 months. Some funds will also go towards repaying bank loans related to the land, though the exact amounts for these allocations have not been determined. The remaining funds will be used as working capital, with the timing dependent on actual needs. Any unused funds will be placed in deposits with financial institutions or short-term money market instruments. EcoWorld Malaysia noted that the country’s transformation into a data center hub has boosted demand for industrial land, and the group is well-positioned to meet this demand with its large land bank of 1,068 acres, primarily in Iskandar Malaysia. This includes the recently acquired EBP VI, which totals 403.78 acres. The sale of the land to Microsoft Payments marks the first transaction for EBP VI, less than six months after EcoWorld Malaysia acquired the land on January 18, 2024. The company believes that having a major technology leader establish a data center at EBP VI will increase demand for the park’s other industrial products and help unlock the value of EBP VI, accelerating cash flow generation from the project.

News

SEDC Energy Partners with UOB Malaysia to Finance Supply Chain and Green Transition Initiatives

KUCHING: SEDC Energy (SEDCE) and UOB Malaysia have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing support for businesses in Sarawak and advancing the state’s renewable energy sector. The MoU enables UOB Malaysia to provide enhanced financing access to SEDCE’s ecosystem of suppliers, vendors, and contractors. Through UOB’s Financial Supply Chain Management (FSCM) Programme, these local enterprises can avail themselves of a comprehensive suite of banking services, including tailored trade finance, Supply Chain Financing, and cash management solutions, to support their working capital and transactional needs. Additionally, UOB Malaysia will leverage its Sustainable Financing Framework to back SEDCE’s green transition projects, underscoring a shared commitment to Sarawak’s sustainable development. Beyond financing, UOB will collaborate with SEDCE and relevant state agencies to help businesses transition to low-carbon and sustainable practices. The MoU was exchanged by SEDCE CEO Mr. Robert Hardin and UOB Malaysia CEO Ms. Ng Wei Wei, witnessed by The Right Honourable Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr. Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg at the Sarawak Electrolyser Assembly – Distribution Facility (SEA-DF) in Demak Laut Industrial Park. Mr. Hardin stated, “This partnership with UOB cements SEDCE’s position as a key hydrogen player in the region, supporting Sarawak’s clean energy initiatives. We are proud to advance together in this venture, investing in a cleaner future.” Ms. Ng added, “This MoU marks the start of a significant collaboration between UOB Malaysia and SEDCE, promoting Sarawak’s economic development and green agenda. Our comprehensive financing solutions will assist SEDCE in green transition projects and provide critical financial resources to its supply chain, aiding local businesses in growth and competitiveness. SEDCE and its supply chain can also leverage our UOB Infinity digital banking platform’s Financial Supply Chain Management capabilities to enhance operational efficiency and manage liquidity and financial transactions.” Sarawak generates 70% of its energy from hydroelectric dams, including Batang Ai, Bakun, and Murum, with the Baleh Hydropower Dam under construction. With ample and affordable hydropower, Sarawak is poised to become a hub for clean hydrogen production for both domestic use and export. Clean hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier that can decarbonize various energy-intensive and hard-to-abate sectors, such as transportation and industrial processes requiring thermal heat, like chemicals and steel.  

Energy & Technology

VSTECS Sees Huge Potential In LGMS’ StarSentry Cybersecurity Solution

KUALA LUMPUR: VSTECS Bhd believes a significant market exists for the recently unveiled StarSentry solution, which LGMS Bhd developed and spearheaded through its wholly-owned subsidiary Applied Securities Intelligence Sdn Bhd (ASI). VSTECS chief executive officer JH Soong said that with more than 1.1 million small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia forming the backbone of the economy, there is a significant market for StarSentry. “This solution aligns closely with the Malaysian government’s priorities to enhance national cybersecurity, particularly in light of the recently passed National Cyber Security Bill, which is anticipated to drive further demand for cybersecurity solutions in Malaysia,” JH Soong said. He said VSTECS is committed to providing SMEs with the information, communication and technology (ICT) tools needed to stay competitive, and StarSentry perfectly complements the company’s extensive portfolio. “Leveraging our extensive network of 3,600 channel partners, we are poised to accelerate the distribution of StarSentry, empowering SMEs to safeguard their digital assets effectively,” he said in a statement. A groundbreaking solution offering cyber risk insurance to every subscriber has been unveiled, marking a significant step in Malaysia’s cybersecurity landscape. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo launched the initiative at a high-profile event. Key figures from the National Cyber Security Agency Malaysia (NACSA), Cyber Security Malaysia (CSM), and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) attended the event. The innovative insurance solution, StarSentry, results from a strategic partnership between ASI and Tokio Marine Insurans (Malaysia) Bhd, which underwrites cyber insurance for its subscribers. The launch event was also graced by the presence of Katsuhiko Takahashi, the Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia. StarSentry is equipped with advanced vulnerability scanning and proactive threat detection features designed to empower SMEs to enhance their cybersecurity measures and comply with regulatory requirements. The solution aligns with the recently announced National Cyber Security Bill 2024. “By safeguarding critical national information infrastructure (CNII) sectors such as government, banking, transportation, and digital industries, StarSentry plays a crucial role in bolstering Malaysia’s overall cybersecurity resilience, as mandated by the bill,” said JH Yong. Earlier, Gobind highlighted the spirit of innovation and cooperation that led to the creation of StarSentry. He described it as a solution that meets the high standards set by the National Cyber Security Bill and embodies Malaysia’s proactive approach to cybersecurity. “StarSentry was specifically developed to cater to the needs of SMEs, which are essential to our economy but often find themselves most vulnerable to cyber threats. “This solution represents a significant advancement in making modern cybersecurity accessible to all sectors, enabling our businesses to thrive without the burden of cyber risks,” Gobind said. “I am pleased that this innovative ‘plug and play’ system allows SMEs to integrate advanced cybersecurity measures into their daily operations effortlessly. “With features like advanced vulnerability scanning and proactive threat detection, StarSentry empowers SMEs to not only comply with regulatory requirements but also to enhance their cybersecurity posture proactively,” he added. This comprehensive cybersecurity solution signifies a major advancement in Malaysia’s efforts to protect its digital economy and critical infrastructure from ever-evolving cyber threats.

News

Village Grocer Celebrates 30th Store Opening in IOI Mall Puchong

KUALA LUMPUR: Village Grocer, Malaysia’s homegrown supermarket chain, opened its 30th store in IOI Mall Puchong on June 6, 2024, as part of the retailer’s 20th anniversary celebrations. The 30th Village Grocer store in IOI Mall Puchong will offer customers a wide range of fresh produce, groceries, and prepared meals over 17,946 sq ft of retail space. IOI Properties Group Bhd chief operating officer for property investment Chris Chong Voon Fooi said with Village Grocer’s commitment to quality, variety, and exceptional customer service, the retailer perfectly aligns with IOI Property’s mission to provide unparalleled shopping experiences to its valued patrons. “We warmly welcome Village Grocer to our mall family and look forward to a fruitful partnership ahead,” he said in a statement. In 2004, Village Grocer started its first store in Bangsar Village, and over the years, it has grown to become a leading premium supermarket chain in Malaysia, serving customers in Penang, Klang Valley and Johor. The Food Purveyor group executive director Ivan Tan said Village Grocer has made great strides since opening its first store in Bangsar Village in 2004. “None of this would have been possible without the support of our loyal customers, and we are honoured to be accorded this recognition by IOI Mall Puchong. We look forward to serving you and being part of your community for many more years,” he said. Meanwhile, The Food Purveyor chief executive officer Kok Kian Kee said Village Grocer was founded on the principles of community, quality, and service. “Our Puchong customers can expect the same dedication to freshness, selection and experience that has made Village Grocer a household name across Malaysia,” he said. Village Grocer is committed to giving back to local communities as a homegrown brand. It actively supports local farmers, small businesses, and charities. Village Grocer is also passionate about sustainability and has set a goal to be plastic-free.

News

AVM Cloud Named as VMware by Broadcom’s Premier VCSP Partner

KUALA LUMPUR: AVM Cloud (“AVM”), an affiliate of Integrated Global Solutions (IGS) and a subsidiary of the prominent Internet service provider TIME dotCom Bhd (“Time”), proudly announces its latest milestone: becoming a Premier Partner with VMware Cloud Service Provider (VCSP). This prestigious recognition underscores AVM’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional cloud services and ensuring top-tier customer satisfaction, aligning with VMware by Broadcom’s rigorous selection process for esteemed partners. This achievement further solidifies AVM’s leadership in the Malaysian market, highlighting its advanced VMware capabilities as VMware by Broadcom’s sole partner with six Master Services Competencies. These designations reflect AVM’s excellence in customer support and high-level service capabilities, marking a significant milestone in its journey as Malaysia’s leading cloud service provider. Following the acquisition in November 2023, the VMware by Broadcom VCSP programme aims to identify and support top cloud service providers offering best-in-class solutions built on VMware technology. To be part of the VCSP programme, partners must meet stringent criteria, demonstrating their expertise and an excellent track record in delivering superior cloud services. Amidst recent industry changes, AVM assures customers and stakeholders of its dedication to providing exceptional service and high-quality cloud solutions. Operations will continue without interruption, reflecting AVM’s relentless pursuit of excellence and uncompromised standards. This recognition enhances AVM’s capability to deliver top-of-the-line cloud solutions built on VMware, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for businesses. “We are excited about the opportunities presented by the revitalised programme and the benefits it brings to our customers,” said Kenny Lim, Chief Executive Officer of AVM Cloud Sdn. Bhd. “AVM Cloud’s success stems from our exceptional standards, and recognition by VMware by Broadcom empowers us to continue delivering unparalleled services to our customers.” Broadcom’s post-acquisition strategy focuses on close collaboration with partners to advance the adoption of VMware Cloud Foundation as the premier private cloud platform, driving business transformation and enhancing customer value. Key highlights of the VCSP programme include a consistent VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) experience across all partners and collaborative go-to-market strategies between Broadcom and VCSP partners. In line with its revamped strategy, Broadcom introduced new tiers and benefits aimed at fostering partner growth and success. The Advantage Partner Program offers partners like AVM new revenue opportunities by enabling businesses to leverage VCF in their solutions, maximising the value of Broadcom technologies. “We remain unwavering in our commitment to innovation in our products and services,” added Kenny Lim. “With Broadcom’s support, we are confident in our ability to deliver the best possible cloud solutions for our customers. We will introduce new enhancements and solutions seamlessly to further elevate their experience.” Since 2018, AVM has continuously led the industry with multiple accolades from VMware, including the prestigious title of Malaysia’s Cloud Services Provider of the Year for 2023.

Investment & Market Trends, News, Uncategorized

South Korea Export Growth ccelerates

SEOUL: South Korea witnessed a surge in export growth last month, signaling the potential for sustained economic momentum following a faster-than-expected expansion in the previous quarter. Adjusted for working-day differences, shipments increased by 11.3% compared to the previous year, as per data released by the customs office yesterday. Unadjusted figures showed headline exports rose by 13.8%, with overall imports also experiencing a 5.4% increase, resulting in a trade surplus of US$1.5 billion. South Korea, a significant player in global trade, has seen demand for its goods rebound since late last year. The economy expanded by 1.3% in the first quarter, surpassing even the most optimistic estimates, largely driven by exports. Despite ongoing Middle East tensions and elevated global interest rates, semiconductor sales have seen a resurgence. Major companies like SK Hynix Inc and Samsung Electronics Co have reported better-than-expected earnings, benefiting from increased demand for memory chips. “Export growth is expected to continue driving growth this quarter, especially fueled by strong demand for semiconductors,” noted Dave Chia, an associate economist at Moody’s Analytics, prior to the release of trade figures. South Korean exporters have particularly benefited from robust demand in major economies like the United States. The International Monetary Fund predicts a growth pickup in advanced economies this year, while emerging markets may experience a slight slowdown. “While Asian exports, especially semiconductors, are likely to remain robust, caution is warranted regarding the broader outlook for external demand,” said Sheana Yue, an economist at Oxford Economics. A major concern for policymakers is the weakening value of the won against the US dollar. While some companies like Hyundai Motor Co have seen improved earnings due to this, smaller firms and importers are grappling with higher costs of raw materials and energy. Additionally, the outlook for demand from China remains uncertain. The second-largest economy is struggling to recover from a domestic spending slump, as highlighted by a surprise decline in industrial profits in March. Exports to China in April totaled US$10.5 billion, marking a 9.9% increase from the previous year, while exports to the United States amounted to US$11.4 billion, a 24% rise, according to the Trade Ministry. — BLOOMBERG

Investment & Market Trends, News

Growth Outlook on Asia and Pacific Regions Improved to 4.5%

SINGAPORE: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has improved its Asia and Pacific region growth forecast to 4.5% this year, up 0.3 percentage points from the previous projection in October, partially due to carryover from stronger 2023 outruns and policy support. The United Nations agency said the region remains inherently dynamic and will contribute about 60% of global growth this year. The growth forecast for Asia and the Pacific in 2025 will moderate to 4.3%, unchanged from the October projection, with the structural slowdown in China a key factor, it said. IMF also improved its 2024 outlook for Malaysia to 4.4%, up 0.1 percentage point from the previous projection. “Drivers of growth are as diverse as the region, reaching from resilient domestic consumption in most ASEAN countries to strong public investment in China and most notably, in India, as well as a sharp uptick in tourism in the Pacific Island countries,” said IMF Director for Asia and Pacific Department Krishna Srinivasan. He said this at a hybrid press conference on the release of ‘The Regional Economic Outlook, Asia Pacific: Steady Growth Amid Diverging Prospects’ report. According to the IMF, inflation is projected to converge to central bank targets by the end of 2024 in most of the region and output gaps are also expected to narrow, conditional on macroeconomic policies staying the course. “Disinflation has advanced throughout the region albeit at different speeds. In some countries, it remains above target, like Australia and New Zealand. In others, it is at or closer to central bank targets for example, in emerging markets and Japan. However, there are also risks of deflation like Thailand and China,” Srinivasan said. Meanwhile, the IMF said China continues to be a source of both upside and downside risks to the macroeconomic outlook in the region. Against this backdrop, Srinivasan noted that policies aimed at addressing stresses in the property sector and boosting domestic demand will help China and the region while sectoral policies contributing to excess capacity will hurt both. He also said that Asian central banks should continue to focus on domestic price stability and avoid making policy decisions overly dependent on anticipated interest rate moves by the US Federal Reserve as they are now better placed than before to cope with exchange rate movements. “They should continue to allow the exchange rate to act as a buffer against stocks,” he said. Meanwhile, in a related blog post, Srinivasan said that Asian governments need to pursue policies to reduce debt and deficits with greater urgency as progress last year fell behind what the agency had originally projected. “Our forecasts show that on current fiscal plans, debt ratios would stabilise for most economies, provided governments underpin these plans with concrete policies and follow through on them. But even then, debt would remain significantly higher than it was before the pandemic,” he said. Srivinasan added that governments need to streamline expenditures and raise more revenue to reduce debt levels and curtail debt service costs. He also noted that policymakers should be cautious to not aggravate trade frictions themselves as global conflict poses additional risks to trade, as proven by the rerouting of ships around Africa to avoid the Red Sea, which raises shipment costs. “For Asia’s economies, these are unfortunate developments, as many of them are deeply integrated into global supply chains and benefit greatly from trade. Pacific island countries are especially affected, as they are highly dependent on imports and poorly integrated into global shipping networks,” he added. — BERNAMA

Investment & Market Trends, News

GFM Services Successfully Transfers to the Main Market of Bursa Securities

KUALA LUMPUR: GFM Services Berhad (“GFM” or “the Group”), a provider of Integrated Facilities Management services, has announced the completion of the transfer of its entire issued share capital from the ACE Market to the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (“Bursa Securities”). This transfer involves the listing and quotation of the Group’s total issued share capital, amounting to 759,508,350 shares in GFM. Encik Ruslan Bin Nordin, the Group Managing Director of GFM, expressed his satisfaction with the successful migration to Bursa Securities’ Main Market. He emphasized that this achievement signifies a significant milestone for GFM, reflecting its financial strength and stability, meeting the transfer criteria related to profitability, financial position, and liquidity. Nordin highlighted that being listed on the Main Market will enhance access to capital markets, especially institutional funds, and boost credibility among investors, aligning with the Group’s current scale of operations. Nordin outlined the Group’s future growth strategies, focusing on expanding its presence in the Oil and Gas facilities maintenance sector, Highway Rest and Service Areas (RSA), and exploring opportunities in the Workforce Lodging segment to address the increasing demand for proper workers’ accommodation. He expressed confidence that the transfer to the Main Market will facilitate the realization of these expansion plans. Nordin expressed gratitude to investors, customers, and business partners for their support, and recognized the contribution of GFM team members to the Group’s success. To summarize, GFM achieved its highest-ever revenue of RM145.0 million and net profit of RM27.4 million for FY2023, driven primarily by increased contributions from its Oil and Gas and Concession Arrangements divisions.

Investment & Market Trends, News

Sentoria Secures Confidence with Approval of Redeemable Convertible Bonds (RCB) in EGM

SERI KEMBANGAN: Sentoria Group Berhad (“Sentoria”) reached a significant milestone today as it successfully held its Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), marking a crucial step in the company’s journey towards financial revitalization. The virtual EGM saw strong participation from Sentoria’s esteemed shareholders, including the State Investment Agencies of Pahang, highlighting their unwavering commitment to the company’s strategic direction. Under the leadership of Sentoria’s Chairman, Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi, and with the attendance of all board members, the EGM centered on securing shareholders’ approval for Sentoria’s Redeemable Convertible Bond (RCB) issuance alongside a Shares Consolidation initiative. The overwhelming support, with nearly 99.9% of eligible registered shareholders backing the resolutions, including full endorsement from Pahang State Investment arm as the second largest shareholder, signifies a strong vote of confidence in Sentoria’s rejuvenation efforts. With conditional approval from Bursa Malaysia granted last month, contingent upon shareholders’ endorsement, today’s successful resolution paves the way for Sentoria to proceed with its first issuance of the three-tranche structured RCB, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Expressing gratitude for the awaited approval of the RCB proposal, Dato’ Loh Yuen Tuck, the Group’s CEO, emphasized the pivotal role of the RCB in revitalizing Sentoria’s cash flows, meeting financial obligations, advancing housing projects in Morib Bay, Selangor, and rejuvenating theme parks through strategic partnerships. The approval enables Sentoria to fulfill commitments to homebuyers, address legacy issues with bank loans, fund new projects in Morib, and revive theme park operations in Gambang Pahang and Samariang Sarawak, thereby enhancing property values and delivering sustainable returns to shareholders and fair returns to supporting banks. The RCB issuance, coupled with a share consolidation exercise of four to one, demonstrates Sentoria’s dedication to financial flexibility and disciplined management. The RCB, already fully subscribed, is structured to be convertible to a maximum of 306,690,544 new ordinary shares, in addition to Sentoria’s consolidated shares. The infusion of RM 150 million funds will support development initiatives, improve cash flows, reduce bank borrowings, and strengthen working capital, crucial elements of Sentoria’s strategic turnaround. Chairman Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi reaffirmed the new Management Team’s commitment to integrity and transparency in utilizing RCB funds, highlighting Sentoria’s dedication to realizing its full potential and creating value for stakeholders. The new team extends gratitude for continued support from shareholders, partners, suppliers, bankers, and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of ongoing collaboration in achieving Sentoria’s turnaround objectives.

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