Article by Associate Professor Dr Petrick Periyasamy

Clinical Physician And Consultant In Infectious Diseases

Head Of Infectious Diseases

University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre

Imagine a future where a simple cut could lead to dire consequences, minor infections become untreatable, and routine medical procedures carry life-threatening risks. This isn’t just the storyline of a dystopian film; it’s the alarming reality we are facing due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The overuse and misuse of antibiotics are fuelling the rise of superbugs that are outsmarting modern medicine. In Malaysia, the situation is increasingly critical. Even common ailments, such as a sore throat, are contributing to this growing crisis, and the potential fallout could be catastrophic.

Diolko, a leading provider of sustainable last-mile delivery solutions, today announced strategic partnerships with CEVA Logistics (previously Bolloré Logistics), L'Oréal and DKSH. These collaborations mark a significant step forward in promoting sustainable logistics and demonstrate Diolko's commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the supply chain.

42 Kuala Lumpur (42KL) successfully concluded its Open Day in partnership with U Mobile, Malaysia’s future second 5G network provider. 

Nippon Paint Malaysia Sdn Bhd (“Nippon Paint”), the leading Total Coating & Construction Solutions provider, through its “Akademi Painter” initiative, aims to train over 400 local entrepreneurs and painters to propel the economic growth in the Klang Valley area by elevating industry standards, create job opportunities, and enhance professional skills in the booming home renovation and construction market. 

MKH Oil Palm (East Kalimantan) Berhad (“MKHOP”), an upstream oil palm plantation company based in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, reported a stellar net profit of RM39.94 million on the back of revenue of RM102.65 million for its first quarter ended 31 Dec, 2024. Earnings per share (EPS) stood at 3.14 sen for the quarter.

I-Berhad (4251) reported a 143% jump in profit before tax (PBT) to RM42.8 million for FY2024, driven by a record-breaking performance in its Leisure & Hospitality segment. The results confirm the company’s successful “extracting value from the land” strategy shift that transformed the Group from a traditional property developer to one that integrates asset optimisation to maximise long-term recurring income from its investment properties.

Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, has unveiled its latest AI models, solutions, upgraded infrastructure offerings, and AI empowerment program at its inaugural AI Tech Day in Malaysia today. These advancements aim to empower businesses and developers in Malaysia to build innovative AI applications more cost-effectively and drive a thriving generative AI ecosystem in the region.

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC) has kicked off construction on STT Johor 1, the first facility in its STT Johor data centre campus, marking a major step in strengthening the region’s digital ecosystem.

Award-winning home appliance manufacturer LG Electronics Malaysia (LG) had recently announced the renewal of its brand ambassador partnership with Malaysian badminton icon Lee Zii Jia, reinforcing the company's commitment to excellence and innovation in the region. 

Marrybrown, Malaysia's largest homegrown Halal Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) chain, recently announced plans to open 40 new outlets across Malaysia in 2025, following its Silver award win at the Putra Aria Brand Awards 2024. The expansion will focus on key regions including Klang Valley, Northern Malaysia, East Coast, and East Malaysia.