Mary Blight – Sure A Not

Cradle leads Asean startup initiative to foster regional collaboration, innovation, and growth

On: July 26, 2024

Initiative focuses on policies, habitat eagerness, and development facilities
1st stage to push off with the Asean Startup Portal to support local businesses, owners

Chang Lih Kang, minister of Technology, Science and Innovation (MOSTI) delivering his keynote speech titled “Malaysia: On Becoming ASEAN’s Next Startup Powerhouse” at the Tech in Asia Conference Kuala Lumpur

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation ( MOSTI ) as the National Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation ( COSTI ) Chair of Malaysia has mandated Cradle Fund Sdn. Bhd., the focus point company for Malaysia’s business habitat, to guide the Asean Startup Initiative under the Science, Technology and Innovation business.

With the purpose to develop greater collaboration, technology, and rise among startups in the region, our important initiatives under the Priority Economic Deliverable have been presented and endorsed by the Asean STI Ministers, setting the stage for major advancements in the Asean business ecosystem, the agency said, in a statement. &nbsp,

The Asean Startup Initiative, led by Malaysia, addresses three main concerns: increase” startup-friendly” policies to create a conducive environment for startups to grow, increase ecosystem readiness among Asean Member States to maintain a supportive infrastructure for business growth, and encourage collaboration to develop effective partnerships and synergies in the region.

” After KL20, we all witnessed the Tech in Asia Conference, which was held for the first time in Kuala Lumpur, at the pinnacle of Southeast Asian technology. Moving forward, Mosti, through Cradle, will kick off the Asean Startup Portal by Q4-2024, reflecting our commitment to fostering a robust and collaborative startup ecosystem within Asean”, Chang Lih Kang, minister of Mosti said. &nbsp,

He added” With Malaysia taking the chairmanship in 2025, Cradle plans to lead the way in implementing Asean Technology Startup Ignite as Malaysia’s 2025 Priority Economic Deliverable, which has been endorsed by the 85th Meeting of the Asean Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation ( COSTI-85 ) and the 20th Asean Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation ( AMMSTI-20 ) in Siem Reap, Cambodia recently. By addressing key areas such as policy, ecosystem readiness, and regional collaboration, we aim to position the Asean Member States as leading players in the global startup landscape” .&nbsp,

Cradle leads Asean startup initiative to foster regional collaboration, innovation, and growth According to the Priority Economic Deliverable 2025,” We are thrilled to announce our main Cradle deliverables.” Each of these deliverables has been carefully selected to address both regional and local issues. By acting as one entity, we hope that all Asean Member States can draw on our shared strengths, address common difficulties, and create a vibrant ecosystem that benefits all member states. Our concerted efforts will help us secure a prosperous and sustainable future, according to Cradle Group CEO Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke ( pic ).

Cradle will start implementing the Asean Startup Initiative in phases starting in 2024. The Asean Startup Portal, a pillar for regional startup collaboration and a valuable resource for startups and investors across Asean, will be the first phase of development.

In 2025, the second phase of the Asean Startup Initiative will commence, focusing on capacity-building programmes. This phase will coincide with Malaysia’s Asean Chairmanship in 2025 and include pitch competitions, startup accelerator programmes targeting Asean-themed and corporate-based challenges, Startup Village, the Asean-India Startup Festival 2025, and a declaration by established leaders to expand the global startup network and strengthen cross-border ties.

7th cohort of Selangor Accelerator Programme open for applications

By: Mary Blight

On: July 26, 2024

In: Technology

Applications are available until August 9th, 2024.
The program aims to promote Indonesian tech startups ‘ growth.

7th cohort of Selangor Accelerator Programme open for applications

The 7th Cohort of the Selangor Accelerator Programme ( SAP24 ) has been announced by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation ( SIDEc ) as the official launch of the program. This program aims to push Malaysia tech startups towards accelerated development, providing detailed support, global mentoring, and expansion opportunities, positioning them for international market success.

SAP24 runs from August to November 2024 and is focused on areas such as Synthetic Intelligence ( AI), Biotech, Net-Zero Solutions, Mobility, and Life Sciences but is also available to different categories. The program includes a variety of workshops, market visits, authorities connections, and expert-led funding guidance. Applications are then open until August 9th, 2024.

According to Sidec, participants will compete for prizes which includes mentorship, brand exposure, and business training worth up to US$ 53, 700 ( RM250, 000 ) in total. Finalists will need to win over a panel of judges who will choose the top 20 businesses for the last pitch circular in October 2024.

” Our purpose with SAP24 is to create an environment where companies can grow and achieve their full potential”, said Yong Kai Ping, CEO of Sidec. ” We are committed to providing the necessary tools, coaching, and opportunities to help these impressive businesses succeed on a global level. We are excited to see the revolutionary effect this group will have on the business ecosystem, with the assistance of our partners.

The program also includes business trips, allowing startups to observe established companies, learn from business experts, determine partnership opportunities, and be updated on industry trends. The opportunity to promote improvements at the exclusive 9th Selangor Smart City and Digital Economy Convention 2024, which will take place from October 16 through October 19 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, comes with top-tier cloud providers, exclusive membership in the CXO Club for networking opportunities, and access to top-tier cloud providers. Individuals will also have excellent locations in the Selangor Sandbox, promoting creativity and engagement, and the opportunity to promote their services to a large community through Sidec’s collection.

According to Sidec, SAP has nurtured 190 startup companies since its inception, with 41 % securing financing from 2018 to 2023. Notable alumni have expanded globally, including Nexmind AI, Seed Dream, Borong ( commonly known as Dropee ), GFI Fintech, Pomen, GoTech, GA Alliance, Entomal, Homa2U, and QMed Asia. Also, past participants have achieved a significant global footprints, extending their reach to areas including USA Silicon Valley &amp, Washington D. C., Japan, China, Taiwan, Dubai, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and above.

Main partner Affin and proper pay partner Fiuu support this program. The efforts and help from Invest Selangor and a group of supporting companions ensure that businesses receive the best possible resources, coaching, and opportunities to level their innovations worldwide.

Applications open for the 2024 Cycle of the Mranti Global Accelerator Programme

By: Mary Blight

On: July 26, 2024

In: Technology

Aims to address pressing world problems
Project targets to engage 20 businesses, provides masterclasses with industry experts

Left to Right: Redza Shahid, manager of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, Asia School of Business; Sarah Cragg, head of Asia Pacific, The Earthshot Prize; Hassan Alsagoff, regional head of Loyalty & Marketing, Grab; Dr. Nick Boden, CEO, Klean; and Jared Ho, head of Sustainability, POS Malaysia

Continuing its mission of accelerating the development of demand-driven R&amp, D efforts, The Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology &amp, Innovation ( TIPM/MRANTI), Malaysia’s central research and innovation commercialisation agency, has officially launched the 2024 cycle of its Global Accelerator Programme ( GAP ). With a focus on addressing pressing global problems, TIPM/MRANT I GAP invites enterprising firms to embark on a trip to scale up their innovative solutions, providing contributors a unique combination of support, funding opportunities, and international recognition.

The Asia School of Business ( ASB ) was one of the attendees at the launch of the program, along with representatives from this year’s GAP collaborators. Through its collection of degrees, professional education, study, and micro-credential programmes, ASB spearheads the development of lean, revolutionary, and philosophical leaders toward the advancement of the emerging world, in areas that include sustainability, AI, business governance, finance, operations management, and leadership.

At least 20 businesses are expected to be enrolled in the program this season, giving them access to industry-specific learning opportunities through seminars and workshops. Through team-building and relationship activities, participants also have the opportunity to form relationships with other participating companies, which will help to create inter-industry systems. Additionally, being a part of the National Technology and Innovation Sandbox (NTIS ) gives businesses the opportunity to test and validate their tech solutions in a controlled, live environment under relaxed regulations. &nbsp,

With the focus on Tech for Impact, GAP 2024 aims to identify the potential of local and international businesses in three crucial thematic domains relevant to the UN Sustainable Development Goals ( UN SDGs ). These include Sustainable Development Goals 2 and 3 for food security andamp; sustainability; Healthcare ( UN SDG 3 ); and Renewable Energy ( UN SDG 7 ). These topics have been identified as the most pressing problems, both nationally and internationally, through intensive study. Development in these three regions has stagnated despite changes in general conservation work on a national level. Through the pedal program, participating companies gain access to various support mechanisms. This includes money from global and local shareholders, and backing from R&amp, D and business management companies. &nbsp,

” The primary goals of GAP are autonomy and problem-solving. It serves as a motivator for businesses, providing them with the tools and system required to navigate the complexities of growth and expansion. GAP assists them in making a significant difference in their business and beyond by addressing persistent issues that affect the people in real-time. V-Farm, for instance Applications open for the 2024 Cycle of the Mranti Global Accelerator Programme ” We introduced a successful vertical gardening solution that addressed food security and environmental concerns,” says Safuan Zairi ( pic ), chief ecosystem officer of MRANTI.” We help our participants use resources at their fullest potential for maximum impact, both for national development and the benefit of the rakyat,” he adds.

This program, which will be hosted at ASBhive, will be overseen by ASB’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, which is a crucial hub for Malaysia’s innovative habitat. Asked by Joseph Cherian, assistant CEO of ASB,” We are eager to establish with MRANTI to simultaneously run this program, and are pleased to work with the company on their endeavors by providing our valued university members, and experts who have won worldwide acclaim in fields like AI, Sustainability, Organizational Behaviour, and Matching Platforms. Our collaboration includes including coordinating mentorship and progress tracking, as well as overseeing the program’s strategic planning and execution and development. As collaborators, we want to cultivate entrepreneur-leaders who consistently tackle demanding issues and challenge the status quo, with agility, creativity, and resourcefulness”.

The nomination for the 2018 cycle of ASB’s collaboration with MRANTI includes being included in the ASB’s annual cycle’s nomination for the prestigious global sustainability award The Earthshot Prize. The Prince of Wales established The Earthshot Prize in 2020 to find, highlight, and scale creative solutions that restore and regenerate our planet. Five winners will receive the award annually. Companies that take part in the 2024 GAP cycle now have the chance to be nominated for the The Earthshot Prize. The partnership also serves as a testament to ASB and MRANTI’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding innovative solutions that address pressing environmental issues.

As of the last cycle, the programme has successfully impacted 20 companies and 50 entrepreneurs, amassing a value creation totalling US$ 4.8 million ( RM22.42 million ), with US$ 4.6 ( RM21.63 ) million in revenue and US$ 168, 000 ( RM790, 610 ) in investments. Some of these successes include Luwjistik, VStream Revolution, Sonicboom Solutions, and Izmir Technologies Industries in 2022, whilst 2023 saw Entomal Biotech, CS Leaflabs, WeAssist, and Mobiva making their mark. These accomplishments motivate MRANTI to strive harder in promoting the development of local and international businesses as well as developing novel solutions. GAP 2024 will run from September to November, and all interested businesses are encouraged to apply and make the most of this unique opportunity to advance their growth and advance their innovations.

For more details on GAP 2024, please visit http ://mranti.my/gap

Singtel partners AIS and Maxis to fight rising digital scams

By: Mary Blight

On: July 25, 2024

In: Technology

World’s second global Telco API union, involving telcos from 3 states
Cooperation may help 45 million users in Thailand &amp, 12 million in M’sia

Singtel partners AIS and Maxis to fight rising digital scams

Singtel and ASEAN’s leading telcos, AIS and Maxis, have signed two Memoranda of Understandings to allow network-based identification for wireless subscribers in Thailand and Malaysia using SingVerify, a suite of solutions that enables the authentication of digital identities stored on customer services or platforms against company data. SingVerify, a Singtel invention, is based on interoperable and compliant telco application programming interfaces ( APIs ) that adhere to the GSMA’s set of industry standards and protocols.

According to the parties in a statement, this is the first foreign union of Telco APIs to be formed, involving telcos from three different nations working together to enable businesses to gain access to real-time provider system data to improve identification and fight scams.

The general strike price for mobile applications in Asia Pacific is higher than the world average, according to a statement from LexisNexis Risk Solutions, with the majority of attacks being carried out by automated bots that target e-commerce pay transactions.

Singtel partners AIS and Maxis to fight rising digital scams Ng Tian Chong ( pic ), CEO of Singtel Singapore, said,” The rise of e-commerce in the region has opened more avenues for digital fraud, significantly impacting consumers and businesses. Along with AIS and Maxis, we can overcome this growing online scams and better defend our clients. By tapping into our telco data and social expertise, we will be able to easily confirm, protect, and mitigate economic fraud so our customers across Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia you enjoy a secure online lifestyle. We will continue to lead the charge against digital fraud and support the recruitment of more MNOs to join the effort to build a more effective defense for everyone.

SingVerify will help reduce the number of unauthorized transactions and account takeovers brought on by phishing and malware app scams. Additionally, it makes the multi-factor authentication process simpler because consumers ‘ digital identities are instantly verified between the telco and service providers. Number Verify, a program that matches customers ‘ phone numbers with their registered account details on the service provider’s platform, and Device Location are the two APIs that will be first federated by AIS and Maxis.

Asnee Wipatawate, head of the Enterprise Telecom Technology Product Department at AIS, said,” This partnership is a significant milestone in our commitment to safeguarding our customers and the digital ecosystem.” We are building a powerful platform that will increase trust and security for businesses and consumers in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore by combining our expertise and resources with Singtel and Maxis.

She added that the joint Number Verification API will give organizations and platforms a powerful tool for verifying user identities both regionally and domestically through real-time phone number verification. The API will provide a comprehensive and secure solution to protect against a wide range of fraudulent activities, including account takeovers and phishing attacks, by leveraging the combined strengths of these telcos. The Number Verification API will be available to businesses across multiple industries, including financial services, e-commerce, and online gaming. Businesses can significantly lower the risk of fraud and increase customer trust by incorporating this API into their systems, according to Wipatawate. &nbsp, Singtel partners AIS and Maxis to fight rising digital scams

Meanwhile, Goh Seow Eng ( pic ), CEO of Maxis, said,” As Malaysia’s leading integrated telco, we provide fast, reliable, and secure connectivity that meets the needs of customers. This partnership allows customers to move forward on their digital transformation journey with peace of mind by protecting them from online threat actors.

These partnerships will benefit 12 million customers in Malaysia and over 45 million in Thailand. In the future, all three telcos will look into ways to federate more APIs.

Singtel and M1 in Singapore have previously signed a MoU to combat the global issue of digital fraud at a national level in Singapore. The federation operates in accordance with the GSMA Open Gateway framework, a recognized initiative that aims to facilitate quick deployment and integration across various mobile networks, giving more service providers and end users the opportunity to benefit from the solution.

The GSMA Open Gateway initiative, which is led by Julian Gorman, the head of Asia Pacific, is a success, says Julian Gorman, head of Asia Pacific.” I’m delighted that three of Asia’s most cutting-edge mobile operators have joined forces to help increase consumer confidence in new digital services across Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Fraudulent attacks can have a significant impact on victims, including financial losses and distress, leading to a decline in trust in digital platforms. It is crucial that mobile operators and digital service developers come together to promote a common approach to fraud prevention wherever they are in the world because cybercriminals operate beyond national borders.

TM, Singtel’s Nxera break ground for sustainable, hyper-connected data centre campus in Johor

By: Mary Blight

On: July 25, 2024

In: Technology

Aims to support the president’s push to change M ‘sia&nbsp, into modern commercial hub
Through collaborations between universities in Singapore and Singapore, and M’sia, JV will help to develop data center skills.

TM and Nxera, the local information center arm of Singtel’s Digital InfraCo system, held a pioneering service for their information centre school in Iskandar Puteri, Johor. One month later, a shared venture was announced to create data centers in Malaysia and improve Johor’s reputation as a modern hub.

This 64MW state-of-the-art, green, hyper-connected, AI-ready data centre school supports Malaysia’s high-quality modern facilities. It also supports the administration’s efforts to generate the modern economy and change the country into a hub for business growth, AI development, and innovation.

Malaysia’s Digital secretary, Gobind Singh Deo, said,” This expenditure by TM and Nxera supports Malaysia’s status as the modern hub in Southeast Asia, more advancing the nation’s economic growth. Based on advance estimates, Malaysia’s economy expanded by 5.8 % in the second quarter of 2024, and such investments are in line with projections that Malaysia’s digital economy will contribute 25.5 % to the nation’s GDP by the end of the year”.

He added that Malaysia and Singapore serve as a successful working relationship between two ASEAN member state, as well as the relationship between TM and Nxera.

Onn Hafiz Ghazi, kepada besar of Johor, said,” TM-Nxera’s future data centre school, located in Iskandar Puteri, holds particular value as one of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone’s initial investment projects. We welcome the complete range of their purchase with respect to high-quality system, sustainability, as well as employment and skilling opportunities which supports our emphasis on talent development, clean technology, and green energy”.

This school at the data center will act as a motivator for financial growth and help firms harness the potential of AI and cloud computing. We hope that this will help create a vivid business ecosystem, where more high-tech and high-value content companies may be drawn to their locations within the exclusive economic zone, and provide Johor’s digital economy a boost, he continued.

However, older minister of State, Low Yen Ling, said,” Data facilities are essential enablers of our electronic market, powering our market’s data-driven needs. As technology advances, strong, next-generation electronic system like the TM-Nxera Data Centre will be essential to support AI progress and develop value creation. I look forward to the outcomes we can achieve through close collaboration as a result of today’s groundbreaking, which is a milestone in the deepening economic relations between Singapore and Malaysia.

Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group CEO, said,” Today marks a pivotal milestone in our journey to becoming a digital powerhouse as we break ground on this cutting-edge AI-ready data centre. This facility exemplifies our commitment to fostering industry growth, driving innovation, and enhancing socio-economic development. With support from the Federal Government, and Johor state agencies and authorities, we are confident that this AI-ready data centre will equip businesses with unparalleled computing power, AI capabilities, and other cutting-edge technologies. We are eager to set the stage for a future in which AI and data analytics create transformative solutions, transformative products, and advance both our country and the world.

This state-of-the-art data center campus, which is one of Nxera and Singtel’s largest investments in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, is a key component of our strategy to empower digital economies and communities in the region while making sure energy and water resources are used responsibly and effectively, said Bill Chang, CEO of Nxera and Singtel’s Digital InfraCo unit. It expands our regional data centre platform’s strategic presence in this fast-growing Asia region”.

Our campus will spur economic growth by assisting businesses that use AI and cloud computing to increase efficiency and accelerate their business transformation, with Malaysia embracing AI to drive competitiveness and innovation. Our investment is n’t just about the campus, it is about bringing benefits to the local economy through digitalisation, developing local talent, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing international connectivity”, he added.

This cloud-enabled Tier 3 data center campus, which is scheduled to start commercial operations in 2026, will use liquid cooling to support higher power density AI workloads. The facility will be designed, built, and certified to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards, incorporating energy and water-efficient solutions to optimise the use of resources. This underscores the joint venture’s commitment to long-term sustainability goals. To support the new data centre campus, the joint venture plans to expand submarine cable connectivity, enabling a thriving and vibrant digital ecosystem.

Customers can seamlessly expand their infrastructure from the city-state and the rest of the region thanks to the data center campus, which is only 16 kilometers from Singapore. Further, the data centre can be scaled up to 200MW in response to market demand.

The joint venture will encourage collaborations between universities in Singapore and Malaysia in addition to creating new employment opportunities that are crucial for nation-building. It aims to create comprehensive courses with specialized curricula that will give students the necessary skills and knowledge to help Malaysia advance its growth goals. For communities and the region, this means superior country-to-country connectivity and a smarter, more resilient digital economy.

This joint venture is subject to approval from TM shareholders in the upcoming EGM, as announced in Bursa.

Broadridge appoints David Runacres as President of APAC

By: Mary Blight

On: July 25, 2024

In: Technology

brings with her three decades of experience in the APAC area to the position.
For the London Stock Exchange Group, mind of Japan position for 12 times.

Broadridge appoints David Runacres as President of APAC

Global Fintech leader Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. has announced the appointment of David Runacres ( pic ) as President of Asia-Pacific ( APAC ), effective immediately. Based in Tokyo, Runacres will spike Broadridge’s Asian local businesses. He may also assume the role of Senior Country Officer, Japan, overseeing all actions in a business that is a vital part of Broadridge’s funding and development plan.

Runacres previously served as the head of Japan for 12 years at the London Stock Exchange Group ( LSEG).

” Runacres brings over three decades of experience in the APAC area and a proven track record of producing excellent results for users and leading groups,” said Broadridge International President Mike Sleightholme. ” His strong understanding of the market, coupled with his ability to navigate difficult regulatory situations and experience in leading cross-business activities, makes him truly positioned to lead Broadridge’s expansion activities in the region to help our clients operate, develop, and grow”.

” I’m thrilled to meet Broadridge at such a fantastic time, and I look forward to supporting the company’s growth strategy in the APAC place,” Runacres said. ” By leveraging Broadridge’s innovative solutions, heavy industry experience, and regional presence, I aim to strengthen our market position and provide unprecedented value to our clients. Collectively, we may develop on Broadridge’s solid foundation in APAC as a trusted it partner to travel the next phase of success, helping our clients invent by modernising, improving, and optimising their business”.

Runacres was successful at LSEG in leading a number of significant tasks, including the growth of LSEG’s regional imprint and the inclusion of Refinitiv in Japan. Due to his time at LSEG, he held important sales roles at recognized organisations such as SunGard Systems and Thomson Financial, where he honed his skills in business development, client management, and operational excellence. He has been based in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo over that period.

Runacres holds a Bachelor of Applied Sciences ( Computing ) from Monash University in Australia.

Sarawak in-principle approves Planet QEOS’s innovative Baram Agrovoltaic proposal

By: Mary Blight

On: July 24, 2024

In: Technology

Practicality study &nbsp, for generating 500 MWac-4000 MWac of renewable energy via solar
UEM Lestra&nbsp, Phase 1 lover which is expected to cost&nbsp, up to US$ 428m, completed by 2026

In a special meeting chaired by Sarawak Premier Abang Johari, the Sarawak Government has in-principle, approved Planet QEOS Sdn Bhd’s groundbreaking Solar Agrovoltaic project&nbsp, in Sarawak, where just Phase 1 is expected to cost US$ 428 million ( RM2 billion ) and be completed by 2026. Dino Bidari, Chairman of Planet QEOS, Dr. Gabriel Walter, CEO of Planet QEOS and Lam Poh Lian, COO of Planet QEOS attended the meeting as well.

The project, according to Planet QEOS, aims to create thousands of new jobs in the Baram region in alternative energy and food technology while also revolutionizing how solar energy is produced and addresses crucial issues relating to food security.

The Sarawak Government ‘s&nbsp, in-principle approval is subject to&nbsp, Planet QEOS&nbsp, conducting a feasibility study &nbsp, as part of Phase 1 for generating between 500 MWac ( megawatt of power with alternating current ) to 4000 MWac of renewable power through solar energy in Baram.

A dedicated 180 km Green Energy Grid will also be established along the abandoned Sabah Sarawak Gas Pipeline, ensuring effective distribution and use along the route that will connect solar power from Baram to Tanjung Kidurong, Bintulu. The project’s ambitious vision includes the installation of up to 20 GWp ( gigawatt-peak ) of solar capacity and potentially up to 40 GWhr ( gigawatt hours ) of battery storage by 2030.

UEM Lestra Sdn Bhd, a important person in Malaysia’s renewable energy sector, is the Phase 1 lover for Planet QEOS and did lead&nbsp, the financing efforts along with QEOS and other associates. In the interim, the feasibility study will be completed, and the initial focus will be on developing 500 MWac of solar energy that will seamlessly integrate with Sarawak Energy Bhd’s ( SEB ) main grid.

Amran Hafiz Affif, the president of UEM Group, stated,” We are quite pleased to have the opportunity to provide our request to the Sarawak Government, and the Premier has formally agreed to continue this task. This cutting-edge venture, in our opinion, may change the way Sarawak’s government, Sarawak’s citizens, and Malaysian society benefit.

Dino emphasized the site’s main mission:” This is Sarawak architecture at its best. We created the Solar Agrovoltaic with the intention of achieving a more equitable distribution of wealth among Sarawak’s population, particularly Baram. We want to create thousands of specialized and secure jobs over the next 30 years by including elements that encourage economic participation from rural communities.

Dino also pointed out that the land use has a multiplicity of socioeconomic effects when compared to oil palm. This has a small influence on remote property while also having a significant economic impact on rural communities.

” It’s a winning formula for the rural areas of Sarawak”, he stressed.

Planet QEOS’s Solar Agrovoltaic job is a testament to Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable development, renewable energy, and community empowerment which are pillars of Abang Johari’s vision for a designed Sarawak.

CelcomDigi’s network modernisation surpasses 50%, set to reach 75% by end 2024

By: Mary Blight

On: July 23, 2024

In: Technology

promises to be the best option to create a second channel using the most cutting-edge 5G networks.
Partner habitat with international players to drive implementation, development &amp, adoption&nbsp,

"Presently, 13 out of 45 showcased solutions at the CelcomDigi AI Experience Centre (AiX) are in live pilots with our enterprise customers showing great promise for adoption," said Idham Nawawi, CEO of CelcomDigi, seen here speaking to a customer.

CelcomDigi Bhd announced today that it has completed improvements in Penang and passed the halfway stage country as part of its post-merger system integration and modernization, moving it ahead of schedule in constructing Malaysia’s most advanced digital system.
Penangites now enjoy improved service experiences across the state, most notably in signal strength and network throughput, where CelcomDigi’s 4G LTE and 4G LTE-A coverage serves close 99 % and 98 % of the states ‘ populated areas respectively. The rest of the Northeastern region is seeing strong progress with networking integration and modernization projects, passing 50 % of the bank’s planned implementation in Perak, Kedah, and Perlis, which will be finished by 2025. &nbsp,

Execution of a planned 3-year switch exercise quickly
Moving at rate, within a month, CelcomDigi has achieved more than 50 % of its intended global improvements, in what was expected to be a 3-year training. &nbsp,
CelcomDigi factors to this as evidence of its ability to quickly and level projects involving wireless networking equipment. At the present run-rate, it is set to complete 75 % of community improvements by ending 2024, placing the business in the perfect place to build Malaysia’s second 5G network it declared.
Idham Nawawi, CelcomDigi’s CEO said,” We remain extremely devoted to developing and growing Malaysia’s 5G habitat, both on the system and software level. By ending 2024, more than two-thirds of our community may be modernised making it the largest, most contemporary digital system in the country. This 5G-ready network is set to become one of the largest independent 5G systems in the region and is set to help the rapid deployment of 5G and 5G-Advanced engineering across our large footprint.
” Looking towards Malaysia’s future, we are forging ahead to accelerate a 5G-AI powered digital nation and believe the CelcomDigi AI Experience Centre ( AiX ) will be the epicenter to fuel this ambition”, Idham added. &nbsp,
Over 40 global and local technical partners, who have invested RM55 million in the state-of-the-art service to encourage swift development of 5G and AI solutions, make up the AiX’s broad habitat. &nbsp,
” Currently, 13 out of 45 showed options are in live planes with our business customers showing great promise for implementation. These efforts underscore the solid foundation we have built to enable the rapid and effective deployment of Malaysia’s following 5G network, making us the best choice for rollout and a catalyst for the country’s transition to a 5G-AI-powered online society, Idham said. &nbsp,

Solid foundation for quick and effective implementation of Malaysia’s next 5G network
CelcomDigi operates the widest 4G LTE and 4G LTE-A network in the country, covering 97 % of populated areas nationwide, outpacing other mobile network operators ‘ site count by at least 50 % it claimed. &nbsp,
The firm said it has modernised all aspects of its community, particularly RAN, core, and transport, with 5G-ready equipment, with over 90 % of its network websites today 5G-ready. The company has the ability to synergise its 4G upgrades and 5G activation efforts in a single visit thanks to its ongoing integration and modernization exercise, which is the most affordable, efficient, and quick way to roll out a 5G network for the nation.
Additionally, CelcomDigi has long-term partnerships with over 100 tower and state back companies in both the Peninsula and East Malaysia, such as EDOTCO, Edgepoint Towers Sdn Bhd, SACOFA Sdn Bhd, to name a few. &nbsp,
These win-win collaborations were strengthened following the merger, it said, highlighting the robust partnership ecosystem with a sizable network tower footprint that can quickly deploy new and upgrade existing sites to create a world-class second 5G network for the country.
CelcomDigi has deployed specialized teams of network engineers, collectively known as Skuad 5G, to hard test its network across the country to make sure service levels match its desired goals for customer experience and quality. In addition to the already-configured post-consolidation network optimization and ongoing network monitoring activities, Skuad 5G efforts are being carried out. &nbsp,

growing 5G adoption and a 5G network rollout are both contributing factors.
CelcomDigi continues to lead 5G leadership by streamlining its product portfolios to offer a complete suite of new CelcomDigi Postpaid 5G, Prepaid 5G, and Home &amp, Fibre products in addition to launching its AiX last week to accelerate the development of 5G-AI solutions. According to the statement, the customer confidence in these offers has increased as 5G services become more popular, which suggests there may be some opportunities for 5G adoption in the future.

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu partners pitchIN to boost fundraising for its spin-offs

By: Mary Blight

On: July 23, 2024

In: Technology

programs to recruit students from UMT to make investments in the businesses
PitchIN’s motivation to get as many institutions as possible on panel

(from left): Dzulkifi Mahmud, Chairman of UMTJ Committee; Prof Dr Marinah Mohd Ariffin, UMT Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research & Innovation; Dr Ahmad Ramzi Mohamad Zubir, CEO of UMTJ; Sam Shafie, CEO of pitchIN; Xelia Tong, COO of pitchIN.

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu’s ( UMT ) wholly-owned subsidiary UMT Jaya Holdings Sdn Bhd ( UMTJ) signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Pitch Platforms Sdn Bhd ( pitchIN ) last week to help UMT’s spin-offs to raise funds through the equity crowdfunding (ECF ) platform.

UMT is the first to fully agree to work with us, focusing on boosting purchases made by UMT instructors and individuals into spin-off companies, according to Sam Shafie, CEO of PitchIN.

With colleges having their own domestic processes, various that pitchIN has engaged with are in the final phases of agreeing to a related association, such as Universiti Malaya, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and Universiti Teknologi Petronas.

Dr Ahmad Ramzi Mohamad Zubir, CEO of UMTJ said that the school’s intellectual property investment comprises patents, business designs, technology utilities, trademarks, custom rights, and industry secrets that are ripe for commercialisation. In 2023 alone, UMT registered a total of 60 intellectual property assets, including 40 products as proprietary rights, 13 as trade secrets, four registered patents, with the three others under other categorizations of intellectual property.

These university intellectual assets are still significantly underused and not producing commercial returns, which is a loss for UMT and the country as a whole, as is common throughout academia in Malaysia.

Therefore, partnering and co-operating with universities makes sense, and we’ve been trying to do this for a long time, but the bureaucracy was very cumbersome until I met Ramzi, Sam said.

PitchIN-UMT partner campaign and targeting&nbsp, alumni as potential investors

Through this agreement, UMTJ will serve as a bridge linking UMT’s spin-offs with potential investors via the pitchIN platform.

” Those spin-off companies will later be featured on our microsites ( partner campaigns ) on PitchIN, where partners like the university will curate the companies they select for fundraising on the platform”, Sam said.

In the case of UMT, all spin-offs will be housed under its own microsite. Additionally, PitchIN intends to work with UMT to engage its alumni and introduce them to investment opportunities offered by their alma mater.

The firstgroup of companies UTM is considering consist&nbsp, of spin-offs focusing on renewable energy, green hydrogen, and oil and gas industry.

A company with an oil & gas focus and two researchers who created an oil-absorbent material was chosen as the first candidate for listing. Ramzi criticized the founders for being among the top 1 % of world researchers, denying their claim to own the business.

” We’re going to pitch for funding and also go for the secondary market as well”, he added, referring to pitchIN’s secondary ECF trading market ( PSTX ) which went live on July 10, which&nbsp, allows people to trade shares of companies that have raised funding on the platform.

We’ll try to get the company listed before the end of Q3 or the beginning of Q4, according to Sam, because we’re going to begin our due diligence and compliance on the company soon. We’re also aiming to encourage institutional investors to make an investment in this business.

The spin-offs of UMT will be guided by Fundraising Accelerator ( FA ), a startup initiative launched by pitchIN Academy in October 2022, as part of the MoA. For its spinoff founders to successfully raise money, FA will provide the necessary guidance and skills.

Some of the other partners that have their micro-sites on pitchIN.

What’s next for pitchIN&nbsp,

With over 177 successful ECF campaigns and more than US$ 69.6 million ( RM325 million ) raised for issuers in Malaysia, what’s next for pitchIN, industry observers have wondered.

” Well, we have no immediate plans for listing as we still have a long way to go”, said Sam, sharing that the revenue target for this year is US$ 429, 000 ( RM2 million ).

Iskandar Investment Berhad launches Tech Medini to enhance the JS-SEZ digital economy

By: Mary Blight

On: July 23, 2024

In: Technology

Aims to help businesses choose innovations, drive green growth
Initiative aims to generate US$ 1.9 billion in funding and make 65, 000 work

Left to Right: Roslina Arbak, director of IIB, Ng Kuan Khai, consulate general of The Republic of Singapore in Johor Bahru, Idzham Mohd Hashim, president & CEO, IIB & Marhani Md Jelani, director of Ministry of Investmentment

Tech Medini was launched by Iskandar Investment Berhad ( IIB ), a significant step in bolstering Medini’s position as Johor’s top digital and innovation hub.

Tech Medini, a 160-acre development area, is set to become a technical gateway where habitat players can create emerging technologies with innovators from fields such as AI, automatic drones, robotics, cybersecurity, bioengineering, quantum computing, interactive reality, space technology, and more. This initiative aligns with IIB’s goal of driving US$ 1.9 billion ( RM9 billion ) in investments and creating 65, 000 jobs in the Medini area, contributing to Malaysia’s evolution into a high-income nation in the era of Industry 4.0.

Idzham Mohd Hashim, president/CEO of IIB, stated,” With a strategic focus on supporting the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone ( JS-SEZ ) framework, Tech Medini aims to position Medini as a premier destination for investors, offering a cost-efficient business environment for the region”. He continued,” Tech Medini aims to enable organizations in adopting new inventions and accelerating digitalization to generate sustainable growth in the region by leveraging emerging technology and fostering creative collaborations.” This serves as a catalyst for our Medini revitalization plan, which aims to attract qualified and high-tech professionals and create a sustainable and prosperous metropolis.

Building on the success of existing efforts like Global Business Services Iskandar@Medini, Drone and Robotics Zone, Iskandar, and Blockchain Village@Medini, Tech Medini serves as a centre designed to empower companies and promote their progress. The Medini Nexus and Medini Soft Landing Programme are two of the advancement programs and assistance services offered by Tech Medini.

The Medini Nexus provides businesses with an street to ideate, expand, and validate their suggestions. It offers access to co-working areas, coaching by experienced entrepreneurs, innovation programs, and analyze site environments, enabling startups to establish a solid foundation for success.

The Medini Soft Landing Programme helps global startups set up their business in Medini by offering support services that comfortable market access, including guided conversation on business membership, business spaces, accommodation options, talent requirements, and localisation services.

Additionally, IIB supports the Dana Impak initiative under Khazanah’s Future Malaysia Programme, which aims to nurture and boost the startup ecosystem with a commitment of US$ 1.2 billion ( RM6 billion ) in funds over five years. Dana Impak is a key foundation under Khazanah’s Advancing Malaysia approach, investing across six elements: Digital Society and Technology, Quality Health and Education for all, Decent Work and Social Mobility, Food and Energy Security, Building Climate Resilience, and Competing in Global Markets.

By expanding their investment portfolio and optimizing the region’s worth development, IIB invites potential VC partners to add the money ecosystem. Additionally, the company urges more collaborators to support the development of Johor’s most important innovation and modern hub, contributing to the development of the next wave of innovation. For more information on Tech Medini, attend www. techmedini.com.