In latest acquisition, Catcha Digital acquires Theta Service Partner to enter banking software sector

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  • Conditional agreement for 92.5% in Theta Service Partner for approximately US$7.9m cash
  • Strategic entry into banking software sector for Catcha Digital as it builds out its digital ambitions

From left (standing): Helen Wong (Partner, Messrs Tay & Helen Wong); Lim Cheah Hoay (Associate, Cheang & Ariff); Choy Chong Hwai (Manager, Finance & Administration, Theta); Chan Chong Yoong (Head of Technical Department, Theta); Yoon Ming Sun (Partner, Cheang & Ariff); Chin Yi Hong (Senior Investment Analyst, Catcha Digital); Justin Tee (Associate, Cheang & Ariff); and Eugene Gan (Senior Associate, Cheang & Ariff). From left (sitting): Hew How Fong (Director & Chief Technology Officer, Theta); Mark Leong (Chief Commercial Officer, Theta); Eric Tan (CEO, Catcha Digital); and Oscar Ong (Vice President of Investments, Catcha Digital).

Catcha Digital Bhd announced on Wednesday its third acquisition in just the month of March, matching the three it made in the entire 2024. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Catcha Theta Holdings Sdn Bhd has entered into a conditional share sale agreement to acquire 92.5% equity interest in Theta Service Partner Sdn Bhd (Theta) for a cash consideration of approximately US$7.9 million (RM35 million) (subject to adjustments as set out in the conditional share sale agreement), which is split into 4 tranches of RM5.9 million, RM6.6 million, RM11.2 million and RM11.3 million respectively.

[RM1 = US$0.22]

The second, third and fourth tranche payments are tied to expected profit after tax of not less than RM3.5 million, RM4 million and RM5 million for the financial year ended/ending 31 Dec (FYE) 2024, FYE 2025 and FYE 2026, respectively. This strategic acquisition marks Catcha Digital’s expansion into the banking software solutions sector, specifically in loan origination software. In FYE 2023, Theta and its subsidiaries (Theta Group) recorded a profit after tax (PAT) of RM3.4 million. This transaction is expected to contribute positively to Catcha Digital’s earnings.

Theta is a leading provider of loan origination software for financial institutions through its flagship product ORIGINS – a comprehensive lending solution that streamlines operations across retail, SME, and commercial segments.

Theta Group has gained traction among major financial institutions globally, maintaining long-term relationships spanning over two decades with some of Southeast Asia’s largest banking groups (ranked by total assets) for their operations across the region, including one of the largest banks in Singapore, one of the largest banks in Malaysia, and a prominent Pan-Asian bank headquartered in Taiwan.

“This acquisition represents a strategic entry into the banking software sector and is well-aligned with our vision of building a comprehensive digital technology group. What particularly impressed us about Theta Group was their deep domain expertise in loan origination systems, evidenced by their long-standing relationships with major financial institutions across multiple markets. Their proven track record in delivering mission-critical software solutions to its long term customers, combined with a proven management team with deep domain expertise, presents compelling sustainable growth opportunities,” said Patrick Grove, Chairman of Catcha Digital.

“Joining forces with Catcha Digital strengthens our ability to capture the significant opportunities we see in the banking software sector. Over our 25-year journey, we’ve witnessed firsthand how critical robust loan origination systems have become for financial institutions’ operations, alongside the tailwind presented by tighter regulation amongst the banking industry globally. The market is now demanding more sophisticated solutions, particularly around artificial intelligence and cloud capabilities. Catcha Digital’s strategic support and regional network will be instrumental as we accelerate our next phase of growth,” said Leong Kwok Hung, Managing Director of Theta.

The proposed acquisition aligns with Catcha Digital’s vision to diversify its business to include information technology solutions business and build the leading digital group in ASEAN, targeting the region’s fast-growing digital economy, valued at approximately RM1 trillion according to Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company’s 2024 SEA e-Conomy report. The Group continues to seek strategic investments and proposed acquisitions that complement its existing segments while expanding its presence in the digital economy beyond digital media.

Including the proposed acquisition of Theta, Catcha Digital has announced six strategic acquisitions in the last five months, each positioned to strengthen its foothold in the digital economy and contribute positively to future earnings. The aggregate expected profit to be achieved by each target company is approximately RM21.1 million, based on their respective 12-month post-completion periods or FYE 31 December 2025 where applicable.

  1. On 17 March 2025, Catcha Digital announced an acquisition of 51% interest in DS Services Sdn Bhd (Digital Symphony) for RM22.95 million. The payment, to be made in three tranches over 24 months, is contingent on Digital Symphony achieving a PAT of RM4.5 million in the first 12 months post-completion and RM4.2 million in the subsequent 12 months. The acquisition has not been completed as it is pending the fulfilment of the conditions precedent under the conditional share sale agreement.
  2. On 14 March 2025, Catcha Digital announced an acquisition of 60% interest in Framemotion Studio Sdn Bhd for RM37.32 million. The payment, to be made in three tranches over 24 months, is contingent on Framemotion achieving a profit after tax and minority interest of RM6.8 million in the first 12 months post-completion and RM6.8 million in the subsequent 12 months. The acquisition has not been completed as it is pending the fulfilment of the conditions precedent under the conditional share sale agreement.
  3. On 20 Dec 2024, Catcha Digital announced a 60% acquisition of Drive 2 Digital Sdn Bhd (D2D) for RM16.2 million. The payment, to be made in three tranches over 24 months, is contingent on D2D achieving a PAT of RM3.5 million in the first 12 months post-completion and RM4.2 million in the subsequent 12 months. The acquisition has not been completed as it is pending the fulfilment of the conditions precedent under the conditional share sale agreement.
  4. On 19 Dec 2024, Catcha Digital announced a 70% acquisition of Tastefully Malaysia Sdn Bhd for RM7.6 million. The payment, to be made in four tranches over 36 months, is contingent on Tastefully achieving a PAT of RM0.5 million for the FYE 2024, RM1.1 million for the first 12 months after completion, RM1.4 million for the subsequent 12 months, and RM1.6 million for the final 12 months. The acquisition has not been completed as it is pending the fulfilment of the conditions precedent under the conditional share sale agreement.
  5. On 28 Nov 2024, Catcha Digital announced a 51% acquisition of Nexible Solutions Sdn Bhd for RM11.3 million, which was completed on 22 Jan 2025. The purchase consideration are to be paid in four tranches and is tied to the achievement of the profit after-tax guarantee (PAT Guarantee) over the period of 36 months, broken down into PAT Guarantee of RM0.7 million, RM1.2 million, RM2.2 million and RM3.3 million for the 12-month period ended 31 December 2024, 31 December 2025, 31 December 2026 and 31 December 2027 respectively.

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Gobi Partners invests undisclosed amount in SkyeChip in boost to Malaysia’s IC chip design ambitions

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  • Cash will help increase the number of skilled workers, expand, and maintain working capital.
  • Gobi’s purchase highlights SkyeChip’s explosive expansion in the device style industry.

Gobi Partners, an Asian Venture Capital firm with offices in Malaysia and Hong Kong, has made an undisclosed investment in SkyeChip, a rapidly expanding semiconductor integrated circuit ( IC ) design firm based in Penang, the heart of Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem, for an undisclosed sum. The Khazanah Nasional-backed Gobi Dana Impak Fund, as well as Gobi’s local resources, which are supported by renowned domestic and international organizations, served as the funding sources for the purchase. The US$ 1.6 billion ( RM$ 1.6 billion ) Dana Impak Fund, which Khazanah founded in 2022, is comprised of.

Fong Swee Kiang ( SK), who co-founded Skyechip ( TM) in 2019 along with and Teh Chee Hak and about 30 other experienced semiconductor engineers, was contacted for comment because of binding non-disclosure agreements. The members bring together more than 50 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, with 32 of those times spent at Intel and periods in the US and Malaysia. Skyechip has grown to over 330 professionals now, and it has granted over 102 US patents as a mixed patent payment. The majority of the inventions were created during their earlier periods with international semicon companies. &nbsp,

Gobi stated in a statement that the purchase will help meet SkyeChip’s skills acquisition, business expansion plans, and working capital requirements. The move, according to the statement, aligns with Khazanah’s Dana Impak authority to support Indonesian businesses that advance Malaysia’s semiconductor and advanced manufacturing ecosystems by promoting scientific innovation, social flexibility, and long-term financial resilience. The company’s proprietary intellectual property, commitment to research and development, and expansion into custom application-specific integrated circuit ( ASIC ) design will strengthen its position on the market and strengthen Malaysia’s position within the global chip ecosystem.

kyeChip is a company that creates custom ASICs and silicon intellectual property for high-end applications like high-performance computing ( HPC ) and artificial intelligence ( AI ) for advanced applications. Gobi’s funding is a reflection of the bank’s rapid expansion in the chip design industry, which had established a solid reputation just a few years after its founding.

Gobi believes that the Southeast Asian-based manufacturers ‘ growing international demand, in addition to the company’s significant progress in key end-markets like AI and HPC, makes it possible for the company to expand for the long term. Moreover, Malaysia’s proper location and changing ecosystem make it a top location for semiconductor innovation in the area.

Co-founder and chairman of Gobi Partners, Thomas G. Tsao, stated that SkyeChip is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing need for advanced semiconductor options, especially in AI and HPC software. We look forward to working with Stat and Chee Hak through their upcoming rise as they have created a fierce company at the forefront of Internet and Circuit design.

Our company’s executive director, Gobi Partners, Hisham Ibrahim, stated,” We are glad that SkyeChip has chosen to mate with us, and we think our expenditure will help SkyeChip grow and help it grow.”

From left: Fong Swee Kiang (SK), CEO, SkyeChip; Teh Chee Hak, CTO, SkyeChip; Thomas G. Tsao, co-founder and chairperson, Gobi Partners; Hisham Ibrahim, executive director, Gobi Partners.

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Malaysian golf-tech company Deemples launches in Thailand after US$ 2 million funding round

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  • aims to connect Thai golf and make the game more accessible.
  • Deemples expands its golfing andamp, match activities to Thailand after victory in M’sia.

From left to right: Amarin Nitibhon, renowned actor and professional golfer; David Wong, CEO and founder of Deemples; Kittisak Cholasueksa, manager of Deemples (Thailand) Co., Ltd.; Ahmad Daleen, CTO of Deemples; Daniel Boongullaya, general manager of Floraville Golf & Country Club.

Deemples, Malaysia’s own-developed golfing platform and mobile app, has publicly launched in Thailand. This important step is a significant step in its effort to bring together golf enthusiasts from different parts of the country and improve the golfing experience.

The idea for the business was born out of a basic need to get golf buddies. What started out as a remedy quickly developed into what the business claims to be Southeast Asia’s largest golfing community, making it simple for golfers to organize games, whether it be a casual round, tournament, or club game. Deemples ensures that golfers can concentrate on what really matters while playing the game thanks to its tech-driven method and frictionless payment integration.

Deemples has connected over a hundred thousand golf in the area because golf is a community activity that brings people up. We were shown by the Thai golf industry that they wanted us to enter the market, and we have already established a strong community there,” said Deemples ‘ CEO and founder David Wong.

The sport’s language is universal; it’s about love and the ability to enjoy whenever and wherever you can. We’re excited to grow into this sport hub and continue to offer golfers a platform to join, play, and share their passion for the sport, he continued with a strong foundation in Malaysia.

With the most golfers in Southeast Asia, Deemples ‘ growth into Thailand aims to create a more connected and visible area, making it simpler than ever for sportsmen to enjoy the sport at any time, anywhere.

Thousands of golfers are taking part in the growing acceptance of golf in Asia. Southeast Asia’s participation rate increased by 25 % between 2016 and 2020, contributing to the state’s overall increase in membership to 23.3 million. Malaysia has seen the most remarkable growth in Southeast Asia.

Deemples is poised to grow in Southeast Asia’s expanding golf tourism surroundings, building on this speed. The company aims to foster the pretty relationships that energy the economy by seamlessly connecting golfers across the area, especially in Malaysia’s expanding business. Its strong booking and event management features, in addition to its integration of native players and foreign players, create a vivid golfing ecosystem, making it the ideal complement to top golfing destinations like Thailand.

Deemples ‘ technological infrastructure was created to allow for flexibility and seamless integration. We’re leveraging our powerful system, which includes sophisticated matching algorithms and a secure payment gate, to make sure Thai golfers have the smooth knowledge that has made us the world’s leading golf destination, according to Ahmad Daleen, Chief Technology Officer of Deemples.

” We’re committed to continuous technology, making sure our technology not only meets but exceeds the needs of a rapidly expanding and evolving golf business,” he continued.

Deemples serves as a platform for the growth of golf tourism in Malaysia by supporting a vivid and connected golfing community. The company is expected to offer the same sport booking and matching encounter in Thailand with stable development in Malaysia since its inception.

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LexisNexis Southeast Asia releases 2025 generative AI and legal profession survey for Malaysia and Singapore

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  • 48 % of legal professionals in MY &amp, SG are confident in utilizing generative AI.
  • Without adopting conceptual AI resources, 70 % of respondents worry about falling behind.

A leading global provider of information and analytics, LexisNexis ® Legal &amp, Professional, has released the Generative AI and the Legal Profession 2025 Survey Report for Malaysia and Singapore. The report examines how the constitutional industry is implementing conceptual AI tools in daily life in light of a survey of over 400 attorneys and legal experts from both nations. It provides important insights into consciousness, utilization trends, and a future where these tools will be essential to legitimate research and practice.

Gaythri Raman, managing director of LexisNexis Southeast Asia, said,” Generative AI is breaking new ground across sectors, and its effects on the legitimate sector in Malaysia and Singapore is important.” These parts “are truly positioned to lead the implementation of AI technology.” conceptual AI is not just about efficiency; it is also changing the way legal services are provided in the legitimate career.

The report’s conclusions include:

  • 70 % of respondents believe they will fall behind if they don’t begin using conceptual AI techniques. The companies they serve ( 36 % ), peers ( 30 % ), and clients ( 16 % ) also have personal motivation, pressure, and expectations.
  • 48 % of legal experts in Malaysia and Singapore expressed confidence in their ability to use conceptual AI tools and equipment.
  • In their work, 66 % of respondents said they were using generative AI tools, with those working in law firms demonstrating greater adoption than those working internally.
  • 56 % of respondents believe that the impact of incorporating generative AI into their businesses or organizations is revolutionary or major.

Meet Lexis AI.
One of LexisNexis’s most recent offerings, Lexis AI, or &nbsp, is a legal generative AI with capabilities for document upload, conversational search, and intelligent legal writing. Lexis AI offers: Powered by state-of-the-art encryption and privacy technology to keep sensitive information secure;

  • Conversational search: makes it easier for users to interact with Lexis AI in conversation and to refine output, making it simpler and longer to do legal research.
  • Document drafting: Quickly generates client communications and contract terms from a straightforward user fast.
  • Summarization: Delivers event reports in seconds, with more features and content coming soon.
  • Document upload: enables users to quickly analyze, summarize, and discover important insight from legal papers.

Lexis AI responses are grounded in one of the largest legal content libraries in the world, which includes analytical, secondary, and primary sources as well as Practical Guidance units.

Click this link to learn more about Lexis AI.

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Shareholders approve XLSMART merger, Axiata and Sinar Mas Set to advance regional collaboration

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  • Both parties signed LOIs to deepen collaboration across MY, ID & SEA
  • Following the merger, Axiata & Sinar Mas will each hold a 34.8% stake in XLSMART

Left to Right: Vivek Sood, appointed commissioner of XLSMART/Group CEO of Axiata Group, Arsjad Rasyid P.M., appointed president commissioner of XLSMART, Franky O. Widjaja, chairman of Sinar Mas Telecommunications & Technology, Rajeev Sethi, appointed president director & CEO of XLSMART) and Antony Susilo, appointed director & CFO of XLSMART at the media conference in Jakarta yesterday to announce shareholders’ approval on the XL Axiata-Smartfren merger.

Axiata Group Berhad and Sinar Mas have jointly announced that shareholders of PT XL Axiata Tbk (XL Axiata), PT Smartfren Telecom Tbk (Smartfren), and PT Smart Telcom (SmartTel) have formally approved the merger of the three companies, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia’s telecommunications sector.

In a statement, the companies said the approval was secured following extraordinary general meetings of shareholders (EGMS) held on 25 March 2025 by XL Axiata, Smartfren, and SmartTel. This follows prior in-principle regulatory approvals from Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs and the approval of the Indonesia Stock Exchange and Financial Services Authority, further solidifying institutional support for the strategic consolidation, they added.

The approval signifies the confidence of shareholders in the combined potential of XL Axiata and Smartfren, reinforcing their commitment to driving a more integrated, efficient, and innovative telecommunications industry. With this shareholder endorsement, XLSMART will continue the important roles played by XL Axiata and Smartfren in Indonesia’s development via the critical telecommunications industry. Combining XL Axiata’s extensive infrastructure and reach with Smartfren’s digital innovation, XLSMART is better able to serve consumers and businesses in the era of digitalisation.

With a subscriber base exceeding 94.3 million, annual projected revenue of US$2.76 billion (RM12.24 billion), and an EBITDA of US$1.35 billion (RM6 billion), XLSMART is well-positioned to lead the next phase of growth in Indonesia’s telecommunications sector. The landmark merger is also set to realise significant cost synergies, with an estimated annual run-rate pre-tax synergies of US$300 million (RM1.3 billion) to US$400 million (RM1.7 billion) post-integration completion.

Following the completion of the merger, Axiata Group and Sinar Mas will become the joint controlling shareholders, with each holding a 34.8% stake in XLSMART, with equal influence over its strategic direction and decisions.

To strengthen the collaboration beyond XLSMART, Axiata and Sinar Mas, on 28 January 2025, signed two letters of intent (LOIs) at a ceremony witnessed by Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim and the president of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto at the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. This coincides with Malaysia’s role as the chair of Asean, a position that allows the country to influence the regional agenda and drive collective objectives.

These LOIs laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration between the two companies, focusing on potential synergies in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia. The agreement envisioned joint efforts in advanced 5G solutions, enterprise services, digital infrastructure, and fintech innovations, supporting the broader goal of accelerating digital transformation across the region. The shareholder approvals mark a critical step forward in realising that vision and advancing strategic cooperation between the two companies.

As part of the newly formed company’s leadership, Rajeev Sethi has been appointed as president director and CEO, supported by a robust executive team that includes nine directors and nine commissioners, ensuring a well-balanced representation from both XL Axiata and Smartfren. Rajeev has extensive and successful experience in transforming telecommunications companies in emerging markets that will help XLSMART to realise its synergy values, and was previously the CEO at Robi Axiata Bangladesh.

The integration of these leadership teams also reflects the company’s focus on operational excellence, strategic growth, and synergy-driven transformation. XLSMART will focus on expanding network coverage, enhancing service quality, and driving digital innovation, while also unlocking opportunities in mobile broadband, enterprise services, and emerging digital technologies to meet the evolving needs of Indonesia’s telecommunications market. The merged entity will combine Axiata’s regional expertise and deep experience in managing integrated operations with the local knowledge and established presence of Sinar Mas, creating a larger, financially robust organisation.

Franky Oesman Widjaja, chairman of Sinar Mas Telecommunications and Technology, emphasised the significance of this merger in strengthening Indonesia’s digital economy. “We believe this consolidation is a crucial step toward creating a more robust telecommunications industry in Indonesia. By combining XL Axiata’s solid infrastructure with Smartfren’s customer-focused digital services, XLSMART will offer enhanced connectivity solutions that empower consumers and businesses while supporting the nation’s long-term digital aspirations.”

“We are excited for the opportunity to drive meaningful progress for Indonesia’s digital economy, ensuring that our customers, partners, and stakeholders benefit from increased efficiency, broader coverage, and superior service quality,” he added.

Meanwhile, Vivek Sood, group CEO of Axiata Group, highlighted the broader impact of the transaction. “This merger marks a defining moment in Indonesia’s digital landscape. The confidence of our shareholders in approving this transaction underscores our vision to build a stronger, more resilient telecommunications entity that delivers value through scale, efficiency, and innovation. With XLSMART, we are poised to enhance customer experience, expand digital services, and contribute to the growth of Indonesia’s digital economy.”

“This merger is not only about combining two businesses but about creating a new, forward-looking company that will set benchmarks in innovation, service quality, and operational excellence. We believe this business combination will allow for the improved financial health of the industry, and we are confident XLSMART will emerge as a formidable player—enabling us to significantly accelerate investments in digital infrastructure and innovation, and ultimately empower communities,” he added.

According to the parties, the transition towards XLSMART will be carefully managed to ensure a seamless integration for customers, employees, and partners. The company will prioritise a smooth operational transition while maintaining service reliability and customer satisfaction. Three brands (XL, Smartfren, and Axis), which are well-positioned in their respective customer segments and complementary, will continue. Over the coming months, Axiata and Sinar Mas will work closely to align business operations, optimise network infrastructure, and explore new service offerings that capitalise on the strengths of the merged entity.

Beyond the business integration, the formation of XLSMART represents a deeper strategic collaboration between Malaysia and Indonesia in the digital economy sector. As two of Southeast Asia’s largest economies, Malaysia and Indonesia share a common vision of fostering digital inclusion, enhancing connectivity, and leveraging technology as a key driver of economic growth.

The partnership between Axiata and Sinar Mas is a testament to this shared ambition, demonstrating how cross-border collaborations can create value not just for businesses but for entire economies. Through this merger, both companies are setting a new standard for regional telecommunications partnerships, integrating expertise, resources, and infrastructure to deliver innovative and customer-centric solutions. Furthermore, this collaboration aligns with the broader national and regional digital economy agendas, ensuring that the telecommunications sector remains a key enabler of economic progress.

As Indonesia and Malaysia continue to strengthen their economic ties, this partnership stands as a model for future corporate alliances that transcend borders, creating a more interconnected, competitive, and sustainable digital ecosystem. With XLSMART, Axiata and Sinar Mas reaffirm their commitment to fostering stronger corporate partnerships that drive innovation, support national digital agendas, and contribute to Southeast Asia’s growing role as a global digital powerhouse.

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Madani Government announces US8 million to accelerate MSME digitalisation nationwide 

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  • aims to increase MSME resilience and competitiveness through online adoption
  • Through public-private collaborations with government entities and companions, funds were made possible.

Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo (center) together with strategic partners at the Business Digitalisation Initiative.

The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC ), which is administered by the ministry of digital, along with its implementation partners, has announced the upcoming availability of a total cumulative fund of approximately US$ 338 million ( RMRM1.5 billion ) to help support national business digitalization initiatives.

The fund aims to provide digital solutions for the nation’s micro, small, and medium enterprises ( MSMEs ), made possible by strategic public-private partnerships between government agencies and supporting partners, including financial institutions, digital banks, peer-to-peer ( P2P ) lending platforms, and local service providers. Moreover, it will provide digital financing options to help them with their business operations.

Gobind Singh Deo, the minister of digital, stated at the business digitalisation initiative ( BDI) that the Madani government’s “rakyat”-centric transformative digitalization initiative aims to provide MSMEs with cutting-edge technology solutions to increase their productivity and operational efficiencies.

This initiative is a part of a “whole-of-nation” strategy to ensure MSMEs have access to online solutions, financing options, and expert advice to improve their competitiveness in today’s fast evolving digital economy. The Madani state is accelerating MSME modern adoption with this BDI while encouraging inclusive growth, which will enable businesses of all sizes to prosper in the coming years and decades,” Gobind continued.

To ensure MSMEs receive extensive support across financing, online tools, and capacity building, several memorandums of understanding between MDEC, SME Corp. Malaysia, economic institutions, modern banks, P2P lending platforms, and local service providers were formalized.

Anuar Fariz Fadzil, CEO of MDEC, stated in a statement that the BDI aims to improve MSMEs by strengthening their tenacity, boosting competition, and ensuring their future-proofing through meaningful digital implementation.

” This program is about tackling real business problems points, whether it be a lack of knowledge, equipment, funding, or simply not knowing where to start,” Anuar continued. It will provide targeted, practical options that are realistic and relevant to their businesses and business objectives.

According to him, “our approach includes tailored assistance, strategic partnerships, access to financing, freemium and cheap e-invoicing solutions built on the Peppol platform, making digitalisation more visible while encouraging MSMEs to level locally and internationally.”

Rizal al Nainy, the CEO of SME Corp. Malaysia, stated that the partnership between MDEC and SME Corp. Malaysia aims to raise awareness of digitalization among MSMEs through jointly designed electric transformation initiatives. Our responsibility at SME Corp. Malaysia is to make sure that MSMEs are not forgotten in the modern business. By collaborating with MDEC, we are fostering a more focused and unified habitat that addresses the real challenges that MSMEs face.

21 MDEC-accredited e-invoicing service companies will provide MSMEs with shareware and cheap e-invoicing options as part of this effort. Visit https ://mdec.my/bdi for more information on BDI.

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Statement of appreciation by Bolt, FastGig, foodpanda, GoGet, Grab, Halo Delivery, Kiddocare, Lalamove, and ShopeeFood

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  • The businesses pledged aid for a fairer regulation platform.
  • expressed interest in planes, data sharing, and support through speech.

The Indonesian government has approved of further enhancing the Gig Workers Bill, thanks to a speech from Bolt, FastGig, foodpanda, GoGet, Grab, Kiddocare, Lalamove, and ShopeeFood. They claimed that this choice reflects the government’s dedication to developing policies that would be beneficial to gig workers and the modern business.

The events expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s willingness to work with gig workers and business players to ensure that the Bill is realistic, viable, and in line with job work’s realities. They continued, stating that by working together, gig workers can be protected while creating opportunities for creativity, competition, and opportunities for all.

The parties are prepared to support the government through constructive speech, data sharing, and aircraft initiatives as platforms in Malaysia partner with over a million job workers. They reiterated their suggestion to make:

Effect research and feasibility study involving direct suggestions from gig workers and business players to evaluate the practicality of key procedures.

A regulated platform – A controlled environment where innovative measures are tested, tweaked, and ensured that the Bill is useful, green, fair, and beneficial to both job workers and the ecosystem.

The parties reiterated their dedication to working with the government to create a healthy regulatory model. They stated as a growing industry that they are not opposed to the Gig Workers Bill but that they are committed to making sure its implementation and laws are carefully considered and carefully thought out.

We are aware that the economy depends on good treatment of gig workers because they deserve and are satisfied with the way a vibrant and creative ecosystem is created. Our long-term objectives are to establish protection that support the continued expansion of Malaysia’s digital economy while also protecting gig workers ‘ lives.

The gig economy is becoming increasingly important to a growing modern society as the concept of work changes. It encourages freedom, creativity, and entrepreneurialism, enabling people to work in a variety of settings. These businesses, collectively, want to ensure that Malaysia continues to be a leader in the international gig economy and that gig workers are protected, platforms are given the freedom to develop.

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U Mobile gears up for the next phase of growth with the appointment of Kenneth Chang as deputy CEO

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  • acoustic in shaping the proper way of U Mobile since its conception
  • may manage the functions of regulation, approach, communication, and sustainability.

Effective on March 28, 2025, U Mobile has appointed Kenneth Chang ( pic ), who has 30 years of experience in the internet and ICT sectors.

Chang, 52, was the company’s foundation producer. He has played a significant role in establishing the company’s proper direction from its inception, helping to secure its 3G license, and guiding its development path. Chang will be in charge of regulation, business strategy, communications, and sustainability functions in his new position. While continuing to serve as a producer on U Mobile’s table, a position he has held since 2006, he will even guide proper client management to understand the company’s dynamic business environment.

He has also been a member of the company’s professional, assessment, and compensation boards.

” We are delighted to welcome Chang as deputy chief executive officer of U Mobile. He has played a significant role in the company’s growth and development since its founding and has been a vital part of U Mobile. His extensive knowledge and expertise will be very useful as U Mobile moves into a new phase of development as a provider of 5G network infrastructure, according to Wong Heang Tuck, U Mobile’s CEO.

Additionally, Chang is the leader and managing director of business solutions Web Commerce Communications Limited and Qinetics Solutions Sdn Bhd, two of the top internet service providers in the Asia-Pacific place. He graduated from the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom with a bachelor’s degree ( honors ) in electronic engineering.

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Microsoft’s Malaysia cloud region and ecosystem to deliver US.9bil economic impact, 37k jobs with 5.7k being IT jobs

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  • By Q2 2025, three data centers will be operational simultaneously&nbsp in the Greater KL place.
  • US$ 1.84 billion is generated directly over the course of four years from sky place operations.

A US$ 2.2 billion ( RM9.71 billion ) cloud and AI infrastructure investment in Malaysia was made ten months after Satya Nadella, the chairman and CEO of Microsoft, made the announcement during his visit to Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysia West cloud region, which it claims is poised to have significant economic benefits when it goes live in Q2 2025, was key details of the impact. Microsoft’s primary sky region in the nation is .

” US$ 0.9 billion ( US$ 48.2 billion ) in economic impact may be produced through Microsoft, our partners, and clients,” according to Laurence Si, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia, managing director of Microsoft Malaysia.

One of the most important aspects of the expense is the creation of the Malaysia West Cloud Region, where three and four data centers will get live simultaneously and sometime in Q2 2025 and are located in the Greater Kuala Lumpur Area. A new facility in Cyberjaya, where building is about to start, will be at least one of the three data centers. Microsoft stated that it was unable to post on whether any of the three information centers will be located in a similar location. It is important to point out that Microsoft is currently running a day center in Cyberjaya in a co-location service owned by Bridge Data Centres, a company of Chindata Group, which is Nasdaq listed and has its headquarters in Singapore. CSF Group, a Malay data center company, acquired Bridge Data Centres ‘ activities in 2017&nbsp, which operated two data centers in Cyberjaya. In Cyberjaya, Bridge is constructing a fourth information center.

Dr Andrew Lau (left), Director of Strategic Programs for Microsoft Malaysia with Laurence Si, MD of Microsoft Malaysia.

Over the course of four years, the Malaysia West cloud region’s operations will generate 16.9 % or US$ 1.84 billion ( RM8.13 billion ) of the US$$ 10.9 billion economic impact. Microsoft, its companions, and its users will contribute US$ 9.16 billion. This is primarily due to the multiple influence of income generated by Microsoft’s income, technology being used by businesses, ex. productivity tools like M365 or fog technologies to help create customer apps.

These projections are based on the IDC” Microsoft Cloud Dividend Screenshot” for Malaysia, which was commissioned by Microsoft and demonstrates the significant advantages of the future investment in cloud infrastructure. &nbsp,

The announcement to share the economic effects for Malaysia came on the same day as Microsoft Indonesia shared the financial impact of the sky area it is opening it by Q2 2025, with the clound place contributing directly to US$ 2.5 billion or 16.5 % of the complete$ 15.2 billion. &nbsp,

According to Laurence,” Different markets have different structures and investment strategies. We are equally focused on ensuring that Malaysia is one of the countries where we’re making the right investments.

creating an AI-ready workforce

Microsoft’s investments go beyond just infrastructure. By 2025, it has committed to empowering 2.5 million ASEAN residents with AI skills, in line with the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025, and with a focus on creating an inclusive, AI-ready workforce.

We are aware that in order to achieve this objective, we must collaborate with the full range of different partners in the nation, government agencies, NGOs, and academics, Si said.

Microsoft launched the” AI for Malaysia’s Future” ( AIForMYFuture ) initiative in December 2024, aiming to have AI skills available to 800, 000 Malaysians by the end of 2025. This initiative builds on Microsoft’s earlier efforts to provide digital skills to Malaysians as part of the Bersama Malaysia initiative. It claims to have trained more than 1.53 million people.

The adoption of AI is on the rise in the country, so the AI training is in line with that. 84 % of Malaysians already employ AI at work, according to Microsoft’s 2024 Work Trend Index.

What Does This Mean for Malaysian companies?

The Malaysia West cloud region aims to provide infrastructure for Malaysian organizations ‘ ability to comply with local laws, maintain data residency, and possibly achieve better performance. Microsoft asserts that this will meet the demands of both public and private sector organizations looking to accelerate their digital transformation, but the actual impact on Malaysia’s digital ecosystem will only be measurable once the facilities are operational. &nbsp,

The upcoming Malaysia West cloud region will allow Malaysian companies to scale their innovation more seamlessly while providing global businesses with a gateway into Malaysia with integrated technological readiness, according to Dr. Andrew Lau, Director of Strategic Programs for Microsoft Malaysia. &nbsp,

” We have faith that the new cloud region will help Malaysia stay competitive in a rapidly changing digital landscape, placing it at the forefront of an AI-driven future,” said the company.

Industry experts point out that local cloud infrastructure typically lessens latency issues, but businesses will still need to assess whether Microsoft’s offerings are in line with their specific technical requirements and cost-benefits in comparison to current alternatives.

The article was written by Dashveenjit Kaur.

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Microsoft’s Malaysia cloud region to deliver US.9bil economic impact, 37k jobs with 5.7k being IT jobs

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  • By Q2 2025, three data centers will get live simultaneously&nbsp, in the Greater KL place.
  • US$ 1.84 billion in revenue is derived from sky place operations over the course of four years.

A US$ 2.2 billion ( RM9.71 billion ) cloud and AI infrastructure investment in Malaysia was made ten months after Satya Nadella, the chairman and CEO of Microsoft, made the announcement during his visit to Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysia West cloud region, which it claims is poised to experience significant economic benefits when it launches in Q2 2025, was covered in key details of the investment’s impact. The sky location is Microsoft’s first in the nation, and it is.

” US$ 0.9 billion ( US$ 48.2 billion ) in economic impact may be produced through Microsoft, our companions, and clients,” according to Laurence Si, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia, managing director of Microsoft Malaysia.

One of the most important aspects of the expense is the creation of the Malaysia West Cloud Region, where three and four data centers will get live simultaneously and sometime in Q2 2025 and are located in the Greater Kuala Lumpur Area. A new facility in Cyberjaya, where building is about to start, will be at least one of the three data centers. Microsoft stated that it was unable to post on whether any of the three information centers would be located in a similar location. It is important to point out that Microsoft is currently operating a day center in Cyberjaya in a co-location service owned by Bridge Data Centres, a conglomerate of Chindata Group, which is Nasdaq listed and has its headquarters in Singapore. Bridge Data Centres purchased the activities of Malaysian information center business, CSF Group, which owned two data centers in Cyberjaya in 2017. A fourth data center is being constructed by Bridge in Cyberjaya.

Dr Andrew Lau (left), Director of Strategic Programs for Microsoft Malaysia with Laurence Si, MD of Microsoft Malaysia.

16.9 % or US$ 1.84 billion ( RMRM8.13 billion ) will be generated over the course of four years from the operations of the Malaysia West cloud region, accounting for the US$$ 10.9 billion economic impact. Microsoft, its companions, and its customers will contribute US$ 9.16 billion. This is primarily due to the multiple effect of business using Microsoft’s technology, such as M365, or cloud-based productivity tools, to create software for customers.

These projections are based on Microsoft’s” Microsoft Cloud Dividend Preview” for Malaysia, which highlights the significant advantages of the future cloud infrastructure investment. &nbsp,

The announcement to share the economic effects for Malaysia came on the same day as Microsoft Indonesia shared the financial impact of the sky area it is opening it by Q2 2025, with the clound place contributing directly to US$ 2.5 billion or 16.5 % of the overall$ 15.2 billion. &nbsp,

According to Laurence,” Different markets have different structures and how they invest as well. We are equally focused on ensuring that Malaysia is one of the countries where we’re making the right investment.

creating a workforce that is AI-ready.

Beyond just investing in infrastructure, Microsoft makes an investment. By 2025, it has committed to empowering 2.5 million ASEAN residents with AI skills, in line with the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025, and placing an emphasis on creating an inclusive, AI-ready workforce.

We are aware that in order to achieve this objective, we must collaborate with all of the various partners in the nation, including government agencies, NGOs, and academics, Si said.

Microsoft’s” AI for Malaysia’s Future” ( AIForMYFuture ) initiative, which aims to have AI skills available to 800, 000 Malaysians by the end of 2025, was launched in December 2024. This initiative builds on Microsoft’s earlier efforts to provide Malaysians with digital skills as part of the Bersama Malaysia initiative. It claims to have trained more than 1.53 million people.

The adoption of AI is growing nationwide, in line with the AI training. 84 % of Malaysians are already using AI at work, according to Microsoft’s 2024 Work Trend Index.

What Does This Mean for Malaysian companies?

The Malaysia West cloud region aims to provide infrastructure for Malaysian organizations ‘ ability to comply with local laws, maintain data residency, and possibly achieve better performance. Microsoft asserts that this will help both public and private companies move toward digital transformation, but the actual impact on Malaysia’s digital ecosystem won’t be measurable once the facilities are operational. &nbsp,

The upcoming Malaysia West cloud region will allow Malaysian companies to scale their innovation more seamlessly while providing global businesses with a gateway into Malaysia with integrated technological readiness, according to Dr. Andrew Lau, Director of Strategic Programs for Microsoft Malaysia. &nbsp,

” We have faith that the new cloud region will help Malaysia stay competitive in a rapidly changing digital landscape, making it a leader in the development of an AI-powered future.”

Industry experts point out that while local cloud infrastructure typically lessens latency issues, businesses will still need to assess whether Microsoft’s offerings correspond with their specific technical requirements and cost-benefits as opposed to existing alternatives.

The article was written by Dashveenjit Kaur.

Continue Reading