MB World Group Launches MBW Innexus Industrial City, Setting a Bold Industrial Future for Johor, with Maybank as Financier 

Strategically located within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone, and financed  by Maybank Islamic Berhad, the RM2 billion development is set to drive cross-border  investment and elevate Johor’s industrial landscape 

MB World Group Berhad, through its subsidiary,  Rising Gateway Sdn. Bhd., has officially launched MBW Innexus Industrial City today, a  freehold heavy industrial development in the fast-growing eastern corridor of Johor Bahru. 

Spanning 732 acres in Tanjung Langsat, MBW Innexus sits at the heart of Flagship D  within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), a high-impact growth belt  supported by both the Malaysian and Singaporean governments. The launch was  officiated by YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Bin Ghazi, Menteri Besar Johor, and YB Senator  Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and  Industry Malaysia. 

“MBW Innexus Industrial City marks a bold new chapter for us,” said Dato’ Rohman  Ahmad, Executive Director of MB World Group Berhad. “We believe industrial growth must  be matched with infrastructure, connectivity, and liveability. And that is exactly what we are working to build, not just factories, but a functioning ecosystem.” 

Where Strategic Policy Meets Real-World Opportunity 

Just 6 km from Tanjung Langsat Port and 14 km from Johor Port, MBW Innexus offers  access to sea routes, major highways, and international airports, including Senai  International Airport and Singapore’s Changi Airport. This proximity ensures seamless  connectivity, efficient logistics, and access to ASEAN and global markets. 

As part of JS-SEZ, the development benefits from strong policy and business facilitation  through the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre Johor (IMFC-J).

At the launch event, Rising Gateway Sdn. Bhd. also exchanged a Bilateral Financing  Agreement with Maybank Islamic Berhad for a facility of up to RM635.6 million comprising  Commodity Murabahah Term Financing, Short-Term Revolving Credit-i, Bank Guarantee i, and Derivative-i.  

“This financing package gives MB World Group the flexibility and breadth of options  needed to meet its operational and infrastructure requirements—laying the foundation for  developing a thriving ecosystem at MBW Innexus Industrial City,” said Dato’ John Chong,  Group CEO of Global Banking, Maybank. “We are also offering comprehensive and  customised financial solutions to businesses, especially in the new economy and  advanced manufacturing, keen to establish their operations in this Industrial City. This  collaboration reflects Maybank’s strategy to work with different stakeholders and foster  inclusivity that supports growth across the spectrum, from mid-market innovators to  multinational anchors in the JS-SEZ.” 

In addition, the event commemorated the handover of the Smart Industrial Park Blueprint  for MBW Innexus Industrial City developed by Telekom Malaysia (TM) through its  enterprise and government solutions arm, TM One. The blueprint provides a digital, ESG aligned industrial ecosystem, incorporating high-speed converged connectivity, enterprise  5G, IoT, AI powered surveillance (Vision AI) and cloud solutions (TM Cloud Alpha) that  positions MBW Innexus as a digital-ready industrial city within the JS-SEZ. 

Purpose-Built for Industrial Evolution 

MBW Innexus Industrial City will be supported by robust infrastructure, including a 132kV  main intake station, high-capacity water tank, sewage treatment plant, and wide roads  designed for smooth cargo movement. Supporting facilities also include on-site workers’  hostels, a mosque, stalls, and a communal park, creating an environment where  businesses and communities can grow together. 

Phase 1 of the project featuring 13 industrial plots is scheduled for completion in Q2 2027,  with the overall project projected to generate a Gross Development Value of RM2.025  billion.

A New Launchpad for Malaysia and Beyond 

By combining Malaysia’s cost advantages and land security with proximity to Singapore’s  global financial and logistics ecosystems, MBW Innexus is positioned as a launchpad for  regional expansion. 

Backed by MB World Group’s track record of over 5,000 units delivered across Johor  Bahru, Bandar Penawar and Melaka, MBW Innexus represents a commitment to  sustainable industrialisation and reinforcing Johor’s industrial competitiveness. 

For more information, visit: www.mbworld.com.my 

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Morgan’s Retail Debuts World’s First Fully AI-Run Store - Just Scan, Tap and Go!

1. The fully AI-powered model reimagines retail with real-time automation, personalised shopping, and a zero-inventory, Net Zero Energy approach.
2. Marking a retail milestone, the innovation strengthens Morgan's Retail's position as a forward-thinking industiry leader, making shopping easier for customers.

    

   Imagine walking into a retail store with no queues, no cashiers, and no waiting around. Just scan, tap, and go! Morgan's Retail is set to launch the world's first fully automated, AI-powered retail concept store in Brooklyn, New York, in the fourth quarter of the year, an absolute game-changer that promises to transform the way we shop forever.

   
   Gone are the days of long checkout lines and frustrating stock shortages. Morgan’s Retail is ushering in a new era of shopping with its cutting-edge store that uses artificial intelligence to personalise every customer’s journey in real time. From instantly recommending products tailored to your preferences to guiding you through the aisles with AR way-finding, shopping becomes effortless and enjoyable.
   
   With easy, smart operations and management solutions, AI takes care of everything, from monitoring inventory and adjusting prices to overseeing security and even cleaning shelves. The store’s innovative smart floor sensors track each step shoppers take, converting their kinetic energy into electricity that powers the entire store sustainably. This clever energy-harvesting technology helps Morgan’s Retail achieve a Net Zero Energy footprint. Combined with a zero-inventory model that slashes waste and storage needs, this approach dramatically cuts carbon emissions and sets a new benchmark for eco-friendly retail.
   
   Morgan’s Retail harnesses cutting-edge technology that thinks and acts, combining generative AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to deliver a seamless, efficient shopping experience. Unlike traditional stores with physical shelves, Morgan’s Retail introduces its patented Customer Visualisation Unit (CVU), a revolutionary interface that allows customers to browse and interact with a vast virtual product catalogue. Customers can instantly access detailed product information from ingredients and nutrition to storage tips, empowering them to make informed choices based on their preferences, lifestyle, and needs.
   
   Thanks to these intelligent solutions, the store operates with significantly fewer staff, as customers receive all the guidance they need to select the right products independently. Security is also enhanced through AI-powered video analytics, ensuring a safe environment. Meanwhile, smart store layouts dynamically adapt by analysing customer movements and responses to promotions, optimising product placement within the virtual environment for maximum convenience and satisfaction. This innovative blend of technologies creates a highly personalised, efficient, and secure shopping experience without the need for physical products on shelves.
   
   Rajeev Lee, Group CEO of Morgan’s Holdings, shares a bold vision for the future, describing this innovation as “not just solving traditional retail challenges but fundamentally reinventing retail itself.” He highlighted how Morgan’s Retail is positioning itself as a global leader in tech-driven, sustainable retail solutions by embracing data, automation, and environmental responsibility.
   
   With the global retail market projected to reach US$17.1 trillion, Morgan’s Retail AI-powered approach addresses the urgent demand for smarter, faster, and greener shopping experiences. The company plans to expand this revolutionary model not just in the United States but throughout Southeast Asia, Europe and the Middle East, actively seeking partnerships and investment to drive the next retail revolution.
   
   This isn’t just about cutting-edge technology, it’s about transforming everyday shopping into something simpler, faster, and truly personalised, all while safeguarding our planet. Why it matters to you is simple, imagine never having to queue again, effortlessly finding exactly what you need, and enjoying the confidence that your choices are tailored to your preferences, all within a store that runs itself efficiently and sustainably. Morgan’s Retail’s AI-powered store is the future arriving at our doorstep, offering a retail experience that is smarter, greener, and more customer-friendly than ever before.

   For the latest updatesw and exclusive insights, follow us on social media @moreatmorgans

   Or visit our website: www.morgansholding.com

   Morgan's Retail warmly welcomes enquiries from partners and investors eager to join us on this exciting journey.                                                          

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Unleash Your Creativity with the ALL-New
HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition (2025)

Pre-order the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte 2025 Edition now to claim free gift worth up to RM698

Following its much-anticipated announcement earlier this month, HUAWEI today officially launches the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition 2025 in Malaysia, continuing its era of productivity and entertainment in a single, sleek device. Combining flagship display technology, PC-level WPS productivity tools, and all-day battery life, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition 2025 is built for students, professionals, and creators who demand more from their tablet.

Designed for the modern, on-the-go lifestyle, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition 2025 features a stunning 11.5-inch 2.5K HUAWEI FullView PaperMatte Display with an expansive 86% screen-to-body ratio, ultra-smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits peak brightness. Paired with the lightweight HUAWEI Smart Keyboard, it delivers a true PC-level experience for typing, multitasking, and productivity on the go. Its nano-etched anti-glare surface and circularly polarised light layer cut reflections by 60% while preserving colour vibrancy and eye comfort, with certifications from both SGS and TÜV Rheinland attesting to its premium visual experience.

Measuring just 6.1mm thin and weighing only 515g, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition  2025 slips easily into any bag while retaining a robust all-metal unibody. Available in Violet and Space Gray, the minimalist design is elevated with a Star Ring camera housing that integrates a dual antenna system for up to 30% better signal reception, perfect for staying connected wherever life takes you.

Powered by HarmonyOS 4.3, the  HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition 2025 transforms into a productivity powerhouse. PC-level WPS Office and floating Multi-Window enable effortless multitasking, while the latest HUAWEI M-Pencil 3rd Gen, featuring ultra-low latency, a 240 Hz sampling rate, and wireless charging, provides precision and fluidity for both work and creative expression. Quad-speaker audio with Histen 9.0 delivers immersive sound, complemented by a 13 MP rear and 8 MP front camera setup for crisp video calls and content capture.

A robust 10,100 mAh battery powers over 14 hours of video playback and charges rapidly with 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge, also supporting PD 3.1 and wireless charging for accessories. With access to over one million secure apps via AppGallery, the  HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition  2025 offers a seamless ecosystem experience.

Starting now, until 26 August, all  Malaysians can pre-order the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition 2025 priced at RM1,599, at any HUAWEI Experience Stores, the HUAWEI Official Website, HUAWEI Official Store on Shopee, HUAWEI Flagship Store on Lazada, and the HUAWEI Official TikTok Shop. This is your chance to own a tablet that redefines productivity anytime, anywhere, and receive exclusive gifts worth up to RM698, including the HUAWEI M-Pencil 3rd Gen and PC-Level WPS Office. 

For the latest updates and promotions, please visit the HUAWEI Official Website, the HUAWEI Official Facebook page, or Instagram.

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AEON AND AEON Credit enter joint venture to develop a future-ready membership and data ecosystem

1. The JV aims to be AEON Group’s unified membership program, supporting cross-platform marketing efforts while providing customers with a holistic retail and financial experience
2. The venture also serves as the Group’s gateway for  merchants and partners seeking to engage with AEON Group’s large and diverse customer base 

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Two of Malaysia’s leading public-listed companies under the AEON Group - AEON CO. (M) BHD. (“AEON”) and AEON Credit Service (M) Berhad (“AEON Credit”) - have formalized a strategic joint venture (“JV”) to establish a new entity that will drive the integration of customer membership, data intelligence and digital engagement across the AEON ecosystem in Malaysia.

This initiative is anchored in AEON Group’s vision that “customers are our starting point” and embraces our mission “to create a future lifestyle that leads to a smile for each and every person.” Customers can look forward to seamless access to benefits across AEON’s retail stores, e-commerce, financial services and digital banking, as well as the access  to use and redeem rewards in more ways than ever before, and timely offers that fit their needs - making every interaction simpler and more rewarding.

With the required regulatory approvals, the JV will be jointly owned by AEON Credit (51%) and AEON (49%), with an initial paid-up capital of RM50 million. The JV is set to become a centralised orchestration layer that brings together customer engagement, digital media, data analytics and marketing solutions across retail, finance, digital and lifestyle touchpoints within the AEON ecosystem.

“This JV unlocks the true ecosystem synergy - bringing together retail, financial services and digital capabilities to create seamless added value for our customers,” said Mr. Daisuke Maeda, Managing Director of AEON Credit.

Mr Maeda added, “With AEON Bank joining the synergy as the JV’s official bank, it strengthens our shared commitment to digital innovation and data-driven growth. AEON Bank will also support AEON partners through business banking solutions, complementing the JV’s role in driving platform partnerships that benefit all AEON Group’s customers.”

Beyond customer benefits, the new entity will also act as a commercial data and marketing exchange hub, enabling AEON Group companies and partners to engage with AEON’s large customer base with greater relevance and impact.

“By aligning our retail scale with AEON Credit’s digital and financial infrastructure, we are co-creating an intelligent membership ecosystem designed to grow with our customers,” said Mr. Naoya Okada, Managing Director of AEON. “This JV is a cornerstone of our long-term digital transformation and group synergy strategy.”

As part of its development, the JV will unify data and membership management across AEON’s entities - namely AEON, AEON BiG Sdn. Bhd., AEON Credit, and AEON Bank Berhad, establishing a foundation for deeper ecosystem integration and shared value creation.

The JV is expected to commence operations by the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory and operational readiness, marking a significant joint investment in future-proofing the AEON brand for a digital-first consumer era.

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U MOBILE ULTRA5G is at the forefront of delivering Malaysia's most powerful 5G experience with its next-generation network

1. U Mobile launches ULTRA5G, a new brand name for the 5G experience that is supported by its next gen 5G network
2. ULTRA5G is now live in Berjaya Times Square (BTS) making it the first fully 5G-enabled shopping mall in Malaysia, and marks a major milestone in U Mobile’s drive to bring the deepest and widest 5G coverage in the country 
3. To demonstrate the technological capability of the ULTRA5G experience, the company showcased the country’s first crystal-clear 4K roller coaster uninterrupted livestream at BTS’ indoor theme park featuring the longest indoor roller coaster ride 

Today, U Mobile launched ULTRA5G, its new brand name for its 5G  experience at Berjaya Times Square (BTS), the telco’s headquarters. The telco believes the name ULTRA5G aptly emphasisesU Mobile’s commitment to ultra-fast speeds, ultra-reliable connectivity,  and ultra-wide coverage. 

U Mobile users at BTS will now see an ULTRA5G identifier on their devices, thanks to the telco’s In Building Coverage (IBC). This marks a key step forward in U Mobile’s strategy to deliver deep and  consistent 5G coverage across both indoor and outdoor environments. 

The ULTRA5G experience, powered by intelligent, enterprise-grade network technology, can meet the evolving needs of Malaysia’s digital future. To highlight the network capability of the ULTRA5G experience, U Mobile showcased several demonstrations, including Malaysia’s first 4K livestream of  the 800-metre-long roller coaster ride at Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, Asia Pacific’s longest  multi-inverted indoor ride that runs for approximately two and a half minutes per session. The  livestream was designed to highlight the depth and consistency of ULTRA5G coverage, which  successfully spanned the entire building and maintained a smooth, stable connection even as the  roller coaster hit speeds of 70 km/h. 

Beyond the livestream, to illustrate the network capability of the ULTRA5G experience, the telco also  conducted an immersive mixed-reality experience and a 5G network slicing demonstration,  showcasing service differentiation and ultra-reliable performance.

“U Mobile is proud to launch ULTRA5G, our brand new name for our 5G experience that is supported  by our next gen network. As the nation’s newest 5G network provider, U Mobile is focused on  enabling digital transformation for consumers and businesses alike. ULTRA5G brings enhanced  digital experiences, from ultra-reliable streaming and immersive gaming to high-quality video calls  in crowded areas. For enterprises, ULTRA5G opens doors to advanced use cases like XR, robotics,  smart cities, and IR 4.0 automation. With deployment ahead of schedule, U Mobile is also doubling  down on indoor coverage to ensure the widest and deepest 5G experience in Malaysia,” said Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer of U Mobile. 

Apart from Berjaya Times Square, the telco’s 5G network coverage has also been made available at  Penang Bridge 1, connecting the full length of the bridge with only two towers, delivering a seamless  connectivity experience for daily commuters. 

The event marks the start of U Mobile’s 5G next gen network going live with deployment targets to  reach 80% Coverage of Populated Areas (CoPA) by the second half of 2026. U Mobile intends to  provide regular updates on ULTRA5G availability, with rapid network deployment expected to cover  strategic locations such as airports, hospitals, convention centres, and other high-impact indoor  and outdoor areas nationwide. This is in line with the company’s commitment to delivering the  widest and deepest 5G network in Malaysia. For more information on ULTRA5G, please visit:  www.u.com.my 

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TITAN Watches Sets the Stage For A Dynamic New Chapter In Malaysia
Marking a Major Milestone, the Global Watchmaker Partners with Marco Worldwide to Bring World-class Design and Innovation to Malaysian Consumers

Titan Company Limited, the fifth-largest watch manufacturer in the world and a name synonymous with precision and style, brings its signature blend of craftsmanship and innovation to Malaysia, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion journey. Through a strategic partnership with Marco Worldwide Sdn. Bhd. (Marco Worldwide), customers can now purchase Titan watches at authorised Marco Worldwide dealers or online via the official brand website. 

A part of India’s prestigious TATA Group, Titan Company Limited has evolved into a global watch powerhouse, with a presence in over 25 countries and a watch sold every three seconds. In Malaysia, the brand offers an extensive line-up of designs across its diverse collections—catering to different styles, from minimalist everyday essentials to bold, high-concept statement pieces.

According to Mr Gaurav Midha, Head of Business, Titan Company Limited, the reintroduction of Titan in Malaysia marks a significant step in the brand’s global expansion strategy. With a rising demand for accessible luxury and fashion-forward accessories, Malaysia serves as a strategic gateway to deepen Titan’s footprint across the region.

“As one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and fast-evolving markets, Malaysia presents a unique blend of style-conscious consumers, a growing middle class, and an appreciation for quality craftsmanship—making it an ideal market for Titan’s diverse range of offerings,” added Mr Gaurav. 

The brand’s new chapter was further commemorated with an official signing ceremony between Titan Company Limited and Marco Worldwide, signifying the beginning of their strategic collaboration in Malaysia. Backed by Marco Worldwide’s strong retail expertise and deep understanding of the local market, Titan Company Limited is confident in establishing a stronger brand presence—one that is accessible, stylish, and deeply relevant to Malaysian consumers. 

"With Titan Company Limited’s global legacy and Marco Worldwide proven retail capabilities, this partnership sets the foundation for a bold new era in Malaysia’s watch landscape. Watches today are not just instruments of time, they are expressions of personality. Titan Company Limited understands that through this partnership, we’re proud to bring to Malaysians a brand that not only tells time but tells a story. We are truly excited to see what the future holds as we introduce more consumers to Titan’s unique blend of innovation and elegance,” said Mr SJ Ong, Executive Director, Marco Worldwide.

In celebration of this milestone, guests were treated to a curated fashion runway in collaboration with local designer brand Inisaya—renowned for its modern interpretations of traditional batik wear. The showcase artfully unveiled some of Titan’s notable creations, with each watch styled into a wearable statement that fused watch design with fashion identity — reinforcing Titan’s positioning as both a timekeeper and a style accessory. 

The runway spotlighted four standout offerings from Titan’s portfolio—Edge, an ultra-slim marvel of minimalist engineering and winner of multiple Red Dot Design awards; Raga, a refined expression of feminine strength and elegance; Titan Automatics, which reveal mechanical artistry through open-heart dials and kinetic movement; and Titan Stellar, a collection inspired by celestial elements, crafted with rare materials and intricate complications. Together, these lines showcased Titan’s diverse design language—where innovation, craftsmanship, and style converge.

Titan Company Limited’s global reputation is backed by award-winning design innovation, having received several international accolades including a nomination at the prestigious Grand Prix d' Horlogerie de Genève 2024 (GPHG). The brand’s commitment to timeless craftsmanship, modern aesthetics, and accessible luxury makes it a natural fit for Malaysia’s evolving fashion forward consumers. To find out more about Titan watches, visit Marco Worldwide authorised dealers or log on to https://titanwatches.my/

#END#

HEINEKEN MALAYSIA REPORTS 2Q & 1H FY2025 RESULTS

The Group Remains Focused on Driving Growth by
Leveraging Strategic Commercial and Digital Opportunities while Improving Operational Efficiencies

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2QFY25 Results:

1. Revenue decreased by 5% to RM540 million (2QFY24: RM565 million)
2. Profit Before Tax (PBT) decreased by 9% to RM109 million (2QFY24: RM120 million)
3. Net profit decreased by 9% to RM83 million (2QFY24: RM91 million)

1H FY25 Results:

1. Revenue decreased by 4% to 30 billion (1HFY24: RM1.35 billion)
2. PBT decreased by 4% to RM270 million (1HFY24: RM281 million)
3. Net profit decreased by 4% to RM205 million (1HFY24: RM214 million)

Heineken Malaysia Berhad (HEINEKEN Malaysia) announced its financial results for the second quarter and half year ended 30 June 2025, reporting a minor decline in revenue and profit compared to the same period in 2024, amid evolving market dynamics. In the second quarter of 2025, the Group recorded revenue of RM540 million, a 5% decrease compared to 2024, reflecting a more cautious consumer sentiment. The Group’s PBT stood at RM109 million, a 9% decrease versus the same quarter last year, primarily due to softer revenue and increased cost pressures.

The Group continues to invest in commercial initiatives and digital infrastructure through the implementation of HEINEKEN’s Digital Backbone, a digital transformation programme designed to unlock the power of data, streamline processes and boost innovation to support long-term growth. This initiative is part of the Group’s EverGreen strategy to future-proof its business.

For the first half of 2025, the Group recorded revenue of RM1.30 billion, a 4% decrease when compared to the same period last year. PBT also eased by 4% year-on-year. This performance was attributable to a combination of factors including the timing of Chinese New Year, moderated consumer demand and the Group’s continued investments in commercial initiatives and digital infrastructure.

Commenting on the results, Martijn van Keulen, Managing Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia, said, "The first six months of 2025 have been marked by a dynamic and evolving market landscape. Although we saw a moderation in consumer demand following the festive season and more cautious spending, our focus remains clear as we are committed to delivering our EverGreen strategy. We will continue investing in our core brands, by driving innovation and impactful activations that deepen connection with our consumers and leveraging digital capabilities.”

Key activations include:

• Heineken® Refresh Your Music: The event returned with Grammy-winner Zedd, drawing over 10,000 fans for unforgettable shared music moments.
• Tiger Trafford Den Pop-Up: Asia’s first Tiger x Manchester United bar lit up KL with live screenings, exclusive meet-and-greets, and a finale featuring club legends.
• Guinness Chief Pint Officer Campaign: The “Tilt Test” ignited excitement nationwide, inviting fans to pour the perfect pint and share it on social media.

The Board has declared a single tier interim dividend of 40 sen per stock unit for the financial year ending 31 December 2025 to be paid on 30 October 2025. The entitlement date for the dividend payment is 9 October 2025. Total dividend declared for the six months ended 30 June 2025 is 40 sen per stock unit.

On outlook, Martijn shared, “Despite the ongoing macroeconomic challenges, we remain agile and forward-looking by harnessing the power of digital solutions and data-driven decision- making. This approach strengthens HEINEKEN Malaysia’s long-term resilience to ensure we stay relevant to our customers and consumers in a dynamic market environment.”

The Group continues to prioritise its EverGreen strategy, which drives superior and balanced growth by aligning topline expansion, profitability, and capital efficiency with sustainable and responsible business practices. This integrated approach enables the Group to create long-term value for both shareholders and stakeholders, while contributing meaningfully to Malaysia’s broader socio-economic progress.

Reinforcing its sustainability leadership, the Company recently received several recognitions from the Sustainability & CSR Malaysia Awards 2025 and The Star ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024, including the coveted title of Most Outstanding ESG Initiative for Large Companies for its Water Management and Efficiency programme. In addition, HEINEKEN Malaysia was officially certified as a Great Place to Work®, affirming its people-first culture and dedication to employee engagement.

In terms of challenges, illicit alcohol continues to pose a significant challenge for the industry. The Group commends the ongoing enforcement efforts by the Royal Malaysian Customs to protect government revenue and safeguard consumers. Any increase in taxes could unintentionally drive demand for illicit products. HEINEKEN Malaysia will continue working closely with the authorities to combat illicit trade through collaboration and market education. For more information on HEINEKEN Malaysia, please visit www.heinekenmalaysia.com.

#END#

Bolt Launches Smart Ride-Hailing Solution for Businesses in Malaysia

Bolt Business launches in Malaysia to simplify employee travel for companies with no onboarding fees, centralised ride management, and automatic reporting to eliminate messy claims

Bolt, Europe’s leading mobility platform, has officially launched Bolt Business in Malaysia, offering a smarter, more efficient way for companies of all sizes to manage employee travel. With no onboarding fees, a centralised ride management dashboard, and automated reporting tools, Bolt Business helps companies eliminate the hassle of manual claims processes while gaining full visibility and control over employee rides.

Bolt Business is designed for modern workforces that require reliable and flexible mobility, whether for daily commuting, meetings, or on-ground operations. Through a user-friendly dashboard, companies can set ride limits, assign cost centres, track usage, and access real-time reports, all from a single account. This helps finance and HR teams streamline expense management, remove paperwork, and make data-driven decisions about business mobility.

Afzan Lutfi, General Manager of Bolt Malaysia, said:

“We built Bolt Business to make life easier for both companies and their employees. A lot of businesses still struggle with messy claims and manual processes just to handle something as simple as a ride. With this launch, we’re giving them a smarter, more transparent way to manage travel, while creating more earning opportunities for local driver-partners. It’s a step forward not just for business mobility, but for our wider commitment to Malaysia.”

Since launching in Malaysia in late 2024, Bolt has steadily expanded its presence in the Klang Valley including the introduction of toll-inclusive fares, launching the premium Bolt Executive category, and rapidly growing its driver-partner base. These milestones reflect the strong demand for a fairer, more flexible ride-hailing option. Bolt Business builds on this foundation by extending those same values to the workplace, offering companies a streamlined, stress-free way to manage employee travel while supporting local drivers with more consistent ride demand.

As Bolt deepens its presence in Malaysia, the launch of Bolt Business signals a longer-term commitment to practical, people-first innovation, not only simplifying how businesses move their teams, but also strengthening income pathways for local drivers. This milestone reflects Bolt’s ambition to shape a more connected, transparent, and inclusive urban mobility ecosystem — one that adapts to the real needs of Malaysia’s evolving workforce and cities.

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SAMENTA and MPC Spearhead AI Empowerment for SME AI Fest 2025

The Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA), in partnership with the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), today launched the SME AI Festival 2025 at Dewan Produktiviti, Menara MATRADE, Kuala Lumpur; marking a major step forward in accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) adoption among Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The festival convenes SME leaders, government agencies, academia, and technology providers to explore how AI can transform productivity, foster innovation, and fuel sustainable growth for Malaysian businesses.

SAMENTA National President Datuk William Ng says the festival is not just an awareness event but a catalyst for mindset change.

"AI is no longer optional. It is existential. SMEs that don’t embrace it risk falling behind. Through this festival, we are demystifying AI and making it accessible for every SME, regardless of size," he said.

The festival features three thought-provoking panel discussions that dive into Malaysia’s evolving AI ecosystem, SME readiness across people, process and product, and practical strategies to supercharge growth with AI. Panellists include top executives from the National AI Office Malaysia, MyDigital Corporation, MDEC, TalentCorp Malaysia, Microsoft Malaysia, Alibaba, and other industry leaders.

Sir Jaya Singnam Rajoo, Senior Director of Multilateral Policy & Negotiation Division, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia, kicked off the SME AI Fest 2025 and underscored the government's commitment to driving AI adoption in the industry.

Also announced during the event are Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between SAMENTA and two universities: Asia Pacific University and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) to strengthen AI talent development, research, and industry-academia collaboration.

Another crowd-puller is the SME AI Prompt Competition, which challenges SMEs to experiment with prompt engineering to solve real-world business problems using AI. Winning teams are recognised during the closing session.

The SME AI Festival 2025 is part of a broader, sustained effort by SAMENTA and MPC to future-proof Malaysian SMEs by embedding AI and digital tools into their business DNA.
                                                                                

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WELLNESS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS: RINGCONN, THE WORLD’S FIRST ULTRA-THIN SMART RING WITH SLEEP APNEA DETECTION

Now Available in Two Variants – RingConn Gen 2 and Gen 2 Air

AECO Technologies, the authorised distributor of RingConn, has officially launched the RingConn Gen 2 and Gen 2 Air — the world’s first ultra-thin smart ring equipped with sleep apnea monitoring and industry-leading battery life. 

Recent global estimates suggest that more than 1 billion people are affected by Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — a serious sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. The RingConn smart ring offers a practical solution, delivering 90.7% accuracy in detecting signs of sleep apnea. With its advanced sleep monitoring capabilities, the smart ring supports early detection and promotes better sleep quality — empowering users to take proactive steps towards improved health. 

“In recent times, we’ve observed a growing shift in the local community, with more people becoming health-conscious and seeking smarter, less intrusive ways to monitor their wellbeing. The RingConn smart ring represents a quiet balance between advanced technology and everyday wearability, seamlessly integrating into all aspect of life —effortlessly wearable at all times with zero discomfort. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, wellness seekers, or a busy professional, this AI-powered ring is suitable for all. It offers advanced wellness tracking in a minimalist design that fits naturally into daily routines,” said Derek Tan, Brand Manager of AECO Technologies.

Engineered for total wellness, this sleek, screenless ring boasts a minimalist design and delivers round the clock biometric and wellness tracking. It is an ideal choice for users seeking a discreet yet powerful health and sleep companion. Contrary to any bulky smartwatches or traditional fitness trackers, the RingConn smart ring weighs just 2 to 2.5 grams, making it comfortable enough to wear all day and night—even during sleep. 

On top of that, the ultra-thin smart ring that is powered by advanced AI technology, continuously tracks and analyses key health data, including sleep patterns, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress index, and overall recovery. This comprehensive health monitoring offers users a clearer understanding of their physical condition and daily habits, ultimately supporting more informed decisions for better overall wellness.

For many, the need to constantly recharge their wellness devices can be inconvenient and disruptive. Designed using RingConn’s EcoPower Technology and equipped with the latest hardware, this smart ring removes that burden by offering one of the longest battery lives in its category—lasting up to 10 to 12 days on a single charge. 

The RingConn smart ring, which is available in two variants, namely, Gen 2 and Gen 2 Air, offer the following specifications: 

 With the RingConn smart ring, the answers to health and wellness concerns are right at your fingertips—whether it's tracking daily sleep quality or monitoring overall wellbeing. Get yours now at shopping platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, TikTok as well as at aeco.com.my, and from our authorised dealers nationwide — click here for the full dealership list.