Boost Bank, CGC Digital partner to finally empower MSMEs with US million funding 

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • MSMEs can get quick access to loans starting at US$ 11 300 through Boost Bank’s Term Loan program.
  • The program aims to assist MSMEs in closing funding gaps, improving operations, and pursuing growth.

Fozia Amanulla, CEO of Boost Bank (left) and Yushida Husin, CEO of CGC Digital, officiated the agreement between Boost Bank and CGC Digital to empower MSMEs with US$29 million in funding.

To improve support for eligible underserved micro, small, and medium enterprises ( MSMEs ) across Malaysia, Boost Bank, the nation’s first homegrown digital bank, has partnered with CGC Digital, a fintech subsidiary of Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad ( CGC). The companies disclosed in a joint statement that a total of US$ 29 million ( RM130 million ) has been allocated for Boost Bank’s financing solutions, the Term Loan Facility and Revolving Credit Facility.

CGC Digital will combine Boost Bank’s MSME financing options with CGC’s ensure coverage to further expand MSMEs ‘ access to finance. This program aims to achieve thousands of MSMEs, closing the crucial funding gap these companies face while enabling them to expand their operations and exploit growth opportunities.

Enterprises can apply for Boost Bank’s Word Loan financing with a simple application process and no paperwork for loans starting at US$ 11 300 ( RMRM50, 000 ). The service allows MSME borrowers to manage their cash flow more effectively by allowing for a maximum loan tenure of up to 36 months without incurring any early settlement costs. Companies can also take advantage of flexible payment options that work with their cash stream goals without paying any penalties.

Revolving credit lending gives MSMEs the freedom to control their cash stream and take action quickly when needed. With its rapid disbursement feature, businesses can get funds in as little as two working days after loan approval.

CEO of Boost Bank Fozia Amanulla stated,” We at Boost Bank understand the crucial role that finance plays in MSMEs ‘ growth. We are committed to providing a platform that opens doors to rise, empowering organizations to overcome obstacles and achieve success, in line with our goal to promote financial participation and growth for underrepresented communities.

” This association with CGC Digital gives MSMEs more flexibility in providing smooth, quick, and affordable financing options, enabling them to overcome challenges and exploit growth opportunities. We may continue to develop innovative solutions that will transform Malaysia’s MSME market,” she continued.

CGC Digital’s CEO, Yushida Husin, stated,” Boost Bank is our first online bank partner, which represents a major step in our effort to facilitate access to financing with digital-first companions.” By working with Boost Bank, we can provide smooth, useful, and accessible financial products that are customized to the specific requirements of MSMEs.

This association gives underserved MSMEs the funding they need to achieve, according to the company’s founder. It also completely complies with the CGC Digital mission, which is to collaborate with digital-first lovers. We’re looking forward to the potential of this relationship and are open to more collaborations with industry pioneers who have digital technologies. Our goal is to keep expanding our offerings, keeping us at the forefront of economic innovation,” she continued.

Both parties pledged to help the underprivileged MSMEs and promote economic inclusion, giving these businesses the support they require to succeed in today’s economy.

Continue Reading

Heineken launches global GenAI Lab in Singapore

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • collaborates with AI Singapore to establish itself as a global-connected baker.
  • By the end of 2025, the laboratory intends to establish a specialized, full-time professional team.

Left to right: Surajeet Ghosh, chief AI officer, Heineken; Dr Ralph Ostertag, director Digital & Technology APAC and Global GenAI Lab, Heineken; Laurence Liew, director, AI Innovation, AI Singapore; Kenneth Choo, managing director, APAC, Heineken; Melissa Guan, vice president and head, Consumer, EDB

The Heineken Company has made the announcement that Singapore will house its second global conceptual AI laboratory. The company stated in a statement that this program aims to transform how GenAI’s worldwide operations increase development, productivity, and client engagement. The Heineken GenAI Lab, which was established in a partnership with AI Singapore, represents a major step forward for the brewery in its quest to become the world’s related brewer.

Heineken’s key digital and tech officer, Ronald den Elzen, stated:” Heineken aims to be the nation’s best-connected baker. GenAI does play a growing part in better understanding customer needs, boosting customer engagement, and boosting company productivity. The establishment of the world GenAI lab is a major milestone in Heineken’s journey toward electric transformation, highlighting our proper emphasis on sophisticated GenAI technologies as key factors in growth, efficiency, and innovation.

However, Kenneth Choo, managing chairman, APAC, Heineken, expressed his satisfaction with the world GenAI lab’s collaboration with AI Singapore. This lab may act as a global center of expertise, improving our operations on a global scale while fostering native AI innovation.

By reaffirming our responsibility to Singapore and the Asia-Pacific place by taking this important step, Heineken is carefully positioning ourselves for a tenacious and prosperous future. We are excited to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that will change the drink industry for years to come by harnessing Singapore’s extraordinary AI ecosystem, experienced talent, and sympathetic government policies, he said.

The lab will be in charge of creating cutting-edge, flexible GenAI solutions for a range of vital business sectors, including complex agentic systems that can freely solve challenging issues, including clever financial reporting, next-generation customer support and knowledge management systems, from automated marketing content creation to smart financial reporting. In order to ensure responsible conduct in its operations, Heinrichein said its method combines human resources with AI capabilities in order to develop standardized solutions for global application.

The test is unique because Heineken and AI Singapore work together continuously, fostering constant information move and talent discussing. By the end of 2025, the test hopes to have a very specialized full-time team of experts ready to work for them. This group will bring together AI Singapore-recruited ability with Heineken’s online and technology specialists. Also, this core group will have access to the talent pool of AI Singapore, allowing them to connect with the best AI professionals and use the most creative approaches in the field.

Heineken is the first company to collaborate with AI Singapore in creating an AI laboratory and center of experience for AI innovation, according to Laurence Liew, director, AI innovation, at AI Singapore. We are developing a potent model for how cooperation between the private and public sectors can lead to creative solutions with real-world effect by combining Heineken’s business experience with AI Singapore’s cutting-edge AI abilities and skills.

Singapore welcomes the beginning of Heineken’s world GenAI lab, which capitalizes on Singapore’s reputation as a skill and innovation hub for businesses looking to create AI solutions, said Chan Ih-Ming, executive vice president, EDB. This program will give Heineken the ability to capitalize on Singapore’s innovative business potential while also acting as a useful platform for enhancing AI talent and capabilities.

Heineken points to the GenAI lab’s proven track record of successful GenAI implementations, including its modern knowledge and insight management solution that revolutionizes how its marketing teams entry customer and market insights, and its economic insights platform that provides fast access to a decade of fiscal data. These successes set the stage for the agency’s optimistic research agenda and demonstrate the agency’s commitment to GenAI-powered innovation.

Continue Reading

CelcomDigi sparks digital innovation in smart cities and mental wellbeing in Varsity Hackathon 2025

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • The IoT &amp, executive type is supported by CelcomDigi.
  • Participants will handle issues of industrial and emotional wellbeing.

Left to right: Tan Chin Qian, associate head of Sponsorship Department, V HACK 2025, Chew Jun Liang, head of Sponsorship Department, V HACK 2025, Lim Wen Hao, project director, V HACK 2025, Stephanie Leong, head of Employer Brand, CelcomDigi, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmad Sufril Azlan Mohamed, advisor, Computer Science Society of USM, Lee Zhi Syeh, associate head of Sponsorship Department, V HACK 2025 and Loh Yi Han, vice project director, V HACK 2025

The Computer Science Student Society of Universiti Sains Malaysia ( USM) is co-sponsoring the Varsity Hackathon ( V HACK) 2025, which aims to inspire university students to create innovative solutions for society’s” Smart City” and “mental wellbeing solutions.

As the partner of the IoT &amp, engineering group, one of three rivals tracks, CelcomDigi encourages participants to identify issues and develop novel solutions to fast urbanization, such as highway health, traffic congestion, storm management, and waste management, as well as promoting overall mental health and wellbeing.

The company will offer opportunities for students to study online skills that are crucial for the future workforce through industry insights, mentorship, and during the hackathon. As AI and new technology transform business and daily life, ComcomDigi believes in nurturing the next generation of tech skills and problem solutions and empowering them to create tech-driven options.

The USM Computer Science Student Society’s yearly premier event, V HACK, runs from March 7 to April 26. This contest, which features supporting workshops, industry experts, and exciting prizes, is open to both local and international college students. Proposals close at 10pm on 26 March 2025.

Visit the official V HACK 2025 page at https ://vhackusm.com for more information or to register.

Continue Reading

Kyberlife closes US mil investment round, sets sight on catalysing growth for Southeast Asia’s life science sector

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • claims to have reduced the typical procurement day by 40 %
  • Local development and digitalization of AI-powered procurement will be funded through funding.

The Kyberlife team at their Singapore-headquartered office

In its most recent investment round, Kyberlife, Singapore’s leading B2B healthcare e-commerce platform, raised US$ 3 million ( RM13.3 million ), led by Singapore’s leading B2B venture capital firm 5I Ventures, with East Ventures, A2D Ventures, and NUS Alumni Ventures as partners. The new funding will help the startup expand its local footprint and realize its goal of reviving the heath procurement process.

The Eastern health sector is expanding, and McKinsey projects that it will account for one-third of international sales by 2025. Acquisition of crucial test technology has become more difficult and time-consuming due to changes in supply chains and fresh compliance requirements. To address these issues, Kyberlife has developed an online industry that connects international researchers and suppliers to research facilities, medical facilities, and research centers in Southeast Asia.

With its open digital marketplace concept, Kyberlife, which is based on a platform-as-a-service ( PaaaS ) model, claims to revolutionize the sourcing process. The program offers a wide range of products, including lab equipment and life-science equipment, with 1.2 million products from 160 brands.

The startup’s ability as a one-stop shop allows academic and research labs, as well as other medical institutions, to purchase important equipment, breaking the mold of drawn-out sourcing procedures, extensive lead times, and transparent pricing common of traditional procurement. The program claims that by digitizing manual processes and streamlining the supply chain, the average sourcing period has been reduced by 40 %.

The platform’s proprietary technology is built to work smoothly with existing purchasing enterprise resource planning systems and direct-to-consumer online workflows. The business has improved the buying and selling knowledge over the past year by incorporating cutting-edge technologies like AI and data analytics to create personalized product recommendations.

Kyberlife stated that its most recent funding round will encourage geographical expansion and that it will put an emphasis on expanding into Indonesia by bringing in local vendors to expand internationally. Additionally, it intends to expand its customer and dealer network in Southeast Asia, with a goal of a twofold increase in its vendor portfolio in the next three years. Also, the startup has plans to invest in AI to improve the quality of products, improve procurement, and reduce the need to rely on sourced and acquired goods for sustainability.

“Kyberlife is a program created by professionals, specifically for professionals. Our goal is to make the complicated and time-consuming steps that scientists must take to obtain lab equipment and supplies for R&amp, D in the medical sector simpler. Ryan James Lim, co-founder and CEO of Kyberlife, expressed his gratitude for the ongoing help and look forward to collaborating with more care providers to advance R&amp, D attempts in Singapore and the broader Southeast Asia region.

We invest in businesses that undermine business and offer flexible options at 5I Ventures. Dieter Schlosser, managing companion at 5I Ventures, said that Kyberlife’s revolutionary approach to purchasing is a game-changer for the life sciences sector.

In the meantime, A2D Ventures ‘ general partner Ankit Upadhyay said:” We support Kyberlife’s ability to redefine how government institutions, laboratories, and healthcare facilities access crucial supplies. Our goal is to support revolutionary startups because of their system’s capacity to grow and inspire innovation in a sector that has millions of lives in it.

Wesley Tay, the superintendent at East Ventures, stated:” We believe Kyberlife may make a difference in digitizing and streamlining procurement processes in the medical and life sciences area in Southeast Asia and above, while also bringing local medical institutions greater admittance to international suppliers. We’re delighted to have Kyberlife join the East Ventures ecosystem, and we’re optimistic about their success.

A roster of supporters has been drawn to Kyberlife since its founding in 2021, including Maya Hari, a former global vice president at Twitter, professor Jeremy Lim, a former CEO of AMiLi, and Dr. Michael Gorriz, a former global CIO of Standard Chartered Bank, all of whom have contributed significantly to the company’s expansion.

Leading suppliers like Merck, Zymo Research, DKSH, Eppendorf, and Sartorius have been signed up to date through the platform, which includes over 160 global brands and 1.2 million SKUs. It provides major clients, including the National Cancer Center of Singapore, Duke-NUS, Nanyang Technological University, and National University of Singapore.

Continue Reading

Nutanix welcomes Jay Tuseth to lead Asia-Pacific and Japan

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • recently held positions at Dell, Oracle, and Conviva.
  • brings knowledge from a variety of senior management positions to the position

Jay Tuseth ( pic ), who will report directly to Andrew Brinded, the company’s chief revenue officer, has been appointed vice president and general manager of Asia-Pacific and Japan ( APJ).

Tuseth has lived in Singapore since 2013 and is a trained business professional. Prior to joining Nutanix, he was based in the bank’s Singapore company as Conviva’s vice president of revenue for APAC SaaS apps and general manager of user experience.

Tuseth helped online companies and their operations teams transition from a service-focused approach to one centered on expertise at Conviva. He oversaw all operations in the APJ region. He encouraged constant improvement, challenging groups to push boundaries, assume responsibility, and make sure that outstanding contributions were acknowledged.

Tuseth previously held the position of Oracle’s vice president of sky programs. Additionally, he spent 12 times at Dell Technologies and EMC serving in various senior management capacities, leading various teams in APJ, and helping clients use data to maximize their competitive edge.

” I am thrilled to be stepping up to Nutanix as vice president and general manager of Asia-Pacific and Japan ( APJ) at such a crucial time. Prod organizations are keen to use AI and new technologies today, but they still face implementation challenges. I’m excited to work with our skilled team to help more organizations in the region because Nutanix is committed to closing infrastructure gaps with flawless Kubernetes administration on our cross multicloud platform,” Tuseth said.

We will continue to support APJ organizations ‘ ability to deliver exceptional digital activities by enabling them to run applications and data wherever they are, whether on-premises, in the sky, or at the top, he added.

Continue Reading

IFC and Cagamas to drive green building finance and sustainability in Malaysia

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • aims to develop natural financing, focusing on women and people of lower income and
  • Agreement to support climate goals andamp; sustainability, and increase clean building funding in M’sia

To advance green building financing in Malaysia, the International Finance Corporation ( IFC), a subsidiary of the World Bank Group, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Cagamas Berhad, Malaysia’s national mortgage company, to advance green building financing in the nation.

In this engagement, IFC and Cagamas hope to encourage climate-smart investments in Malaysia’s cover and creating sectors. Financial institutions will be helped by the initiative in creating green finance products like green bonds, credit lines, and funding for green cooling technologies. Additionally, the partnership aims to strengthen institutions ‘ ability to manage environmental, social, and climate-related risks associated with building projects.

The World Bank Group’s country manager in Malaysia, Judith Green, stated:” We are delighted to work with Cagamas on this proposal, which may play a crucial role in supporting both the country’s inclusive agenda and the growing need for alternative housing in Malaysia. We also want to increase access to housing, lower pollution, encourage climate-smart funding in the construction industry, and develop Malaysia’s capacity to support its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

As DNA transitions its sustainability coverage to a stand-alone news site, please read the full article at https ://oursustainabilitymatters.com/ifc-and-cagamas-to-drive-green-building-finance-and-sustainability-in-malaysia/.

Continue Reading

Malaysia faces a ‘Digital Fentanyl’ as cyber threats poison everyday communications

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • Bad actors have easier access to sophisticated hacking tools, attacks on the rise
  • Govt pursues digital sovereignty via regulatory action, urges public vigilance

(L2R): Derek John Fernandez, MCMC Commissioner; David Wiseman, Vice President of Secure Communications at BlackBerry and Jonathan Jackson, Senior Director of Strategic Technical Solutions APAC at BlackBerry.

This is not a drill. “Your WhatsApp account has been hacked, and criminals are using your identity to ask friends for money. Your phone was compromised while you slept, with zero clicks required. That financial transaction you just made? It’s being intercepted right now.” 

According to cybersecurity experts who gathered last week at a media roundtable hosted by BlackBerry’s Cyber Security Center of Excellence in Cyberjaya, these aren’t hypothetical scenarios but real threats that Malaysians face daily.

In a stark warning to journalists and citizens alike, officials from BlackBerry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) revealed how criminal networks have dramatically lowered the barriers to sophisticated cyber attacks, turning everyday digital communications into what MCMC Commissioner Derek John Fernandez described as “digital fentanyl” – addictive, widespread, and increasingly dangerous.

The invisible threat

“You need to assume that the networks you’re using are compromised, and therefore, you need to take the necessary actions when your data is falling over those networks and make sure it’s protected,” warned David Wiseman, Vice President of Secure Communications at BlackBerry, setting the tone for a discussion that highlighted how vulnerable our everyday communications have become.

According to the speakers, the disturbing reality is that criminal actors now have easier access to sophisticated hacking tools. “The level of ability that someone needs to be very effective is lower, which means you can have more people making these attacks,” Wiseman explained, noting how this has democratized cyber threats.

The third speaker, Jonathan Jackson, Senior Director of Strategic Technical Solutions APAC at BlackBerry, demonstrated this vulnerability in real time, showing how easily personal information can be exposed through consumer-grade messaging applications. 

“To me, the important message, if I can get any message across, is that if the product is free, you are the product,” Jackson emphasized, revealing how his metadata and location were being tracked by services most people use daily.

Beyond consumer-grade security

The speakers drew clear distinctions between the different communication options available today:

Public telephone networks – Designed primarily for connectivity, with security as a secondary consideration

Consumer messaging apps – Provide some protection like end-to-end encryption but lack identity verification and data sovereignty

Organization collaboration tools – Better but can introduce single points of failure

Dedicated secure systems – Required for critical communications

“For government, critical infrastructures, businesses, it’s not a good choice because you have the identity risk, there’s no data ownership, and you don’t have a concept of digital sovereignty,” Wiseman warned about relying on consumer apps for sensitive communications.

The escalating threat landscape

The roundtable revealed several alarming developments in cyber threats:

Commercial spyware proliferation: “Zero click” attacks that compromise devices without any user interaction

Espionage operations: The Philippines government recently arrested individuals driving around with fake cell towers intercepting calls and messages

Mass identity capture: Criminals harvesting user data for future exploitation

Widespread telecom breaches: “Every single US telecom carrier got hacked,” Wiseman revealed, citing a January Wall Street Journal report. He emphasized that Malaysia and other countries face identical risks since they use the same network equipment and infrastructure worldwide.

Jackson added that artificial intelligence makes attacks more convincing: “It’s become more challenging now with the advent of AI machine learning where deep faking technology of audio and video is now definitely a reality.”

Personal protection strategies

The experts shared practical advice for individuals concerned about digital security: “Every time you physically shut your device down and turn it on, the operating system will run through a series of validation checks,” Jackson recommended as a simple daily practice.

Other recommendations included:

  • Turn off your phone at night
  • Disable WiFi, Bluetooth and location services when not in use
  • Update operating systems promptly
  • Use paid VPN services rather than free ones
  • Review app permissions carefully
  • Verify communications through multiple channels

Fernandez added a crucial tip for verifying suspicious communications: “I’m busy, I’m cooking at the moment, I’ll call you back. Then you call back. The phone won’t ring 90% of the time because they’re spoofing the number.”

Malaysia’s 10 principles focused regulatory response

Fernandez also outlined Malaysia’s approach to addressing these threats, focusing on ten principles (table above) that guide the country’s cybersecurity strategy.

“First of all, there must be the political will to protect the people from cybercrime,” he stated, emphasizing that this commitment must override business concerns. “There can be no compromise… digitalization has benefited a small number of people more than the mass of the public. It brought benefits, but you need to protect your people.”

Fernandez advocated for greater accountability from digital platforms: “Those who profit the most from digitalization owe the greatest responsibility to protect their customers.” He also called for specific regulatory measures:

  • A 48-hour cooling-off period for first-time financial transactions
  • Mandatory digital insurance for financial services
  • Requirements for service providers to deploy acceptable levels of technology
  • Treating cybersecurity as capital infrastructure rather than a cost

Pic source: MCMC

Malaysia seeks to establish its digital sovereignty

A recurring theme was Malaysia’s effort to establish “digital sovereignty” – the ability to control and secure critical communication infrastructure without depending on foreign entities.

“We are pushing the boundaries on this,” Fernandez explained. “The centre here was set up as a result of a cooperation between the Malaysian government and the Canadian government with BlackBerry to be able to set up a centre to provide expertise and this kind of training.”

This initiative allows Malaysia to maintain fully sovereign, secure communication systems, addressing what Wiseman described as “the threats of unknown people somewhere around the world managing those systems.”

Notably, Malaysia has taken a recent regulatory step by requiring the licensing of social media and messaging platforms with large user bases. “The minister has announced that all these messaging platforms have to be licensed,” Fernandez stated. 

As of January 2025, this requirement has gone into effect, with TikTok and WeChat successfully obtaining licenses while Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are still in the licensing process. Platforms X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube have yet to apply, with X disputing whether it meets the eight million user threshold that triggers the requirement. 

While the regulation allows for substantial penalties—fines up to US$112,443 (RM500,000) and imprisonment up to five years—for non-compliance, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has indicated that unlicensed platforms won’t face immediate bans.

This measured rollout raises questions about the enforceability of such regulations against powerful global tech platforms, say industry players. Malaysia finds itself in uncharted territory, attempting to assert sovereignty over digital spaces while lacking clear enforcement mechanisms against companies whose physical assets and operational hubs often exist outside national borders. 

According to industry players, whether this licensing framework will achieve meaningful protection for Malaysian users or become another regulatory aspiration challenged by the borderless nature of digital services remains to be seen. The success of these measures depends on Malaysia’s ability to build international cooperation around similar regulatory frameworks.

A shared responsibility

The roundtable concluded with an emphasis on collective action. While technology providers and regulators have essential roles, users must also adapt their behaviour.

“There’s a lot of things you could do from a technology perspective,” Wiseman summarized, “but at the end of the day, it’s how people use these systems, how they behave, and that’s why the education aspect that we’re providing here in the centre is so key.”

Fernandez concurred. “You can’t believe anything you see anymore. This is the first thing to get into your head. It’s challenging, especially with the rise of deepfakes. It can call you up, and you think you’re talking to your mother. That’s how well-evolved the technology is.”

As cyber threats continue to evolve, this combination of technological solutions, regulatory frameworks, and user education represents Malaysia’s comprehensive approach to building a more secure digital environment for its citizens and critical infrastructure.

Continue Reading

Shaping the future of data centers in Malaysia

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • Authorities tackle Malaysia’s digital network issues and possibilities
  • Siemens Data Centre Conference 2025 brings experts along in frank debate

The rapid development of information centres in Malaysia reflects the country’s motivation to become a vital modern hub in Asia Pacific. Driven by increasing demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence ( AI), and digital services, Malaysia has emerged as an attractive destination for data centre investments due to its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and government incentives.

Main technology firms and hyperscale companies are expanding their existence, fuelling major growth in data center capacity. However, this growth brings pressing issues, including high energy and water use, network security, and sustainability problems.

At the current Siemens Data Centre Conference 2025, two panels of respectable industry leaders discussed how, as the industry evolves, Malaysia may balance economic opportunity with concerned resource management to ensure long-term online resilience.

Digital gateway interests demand tactical planning &amp, execution, many aspects to be managed

Malaysia is committed to becoming a local online hub for Asean and the Asia Pacific. Nevertheless, achieving this vision demands proper planning and execution, as many factors may be properly managed.

For a start, information areas require large amounts of water for cooling, whereby an average100 watt ( MW) service consumes about 1.5 billion gallons annually- equivalent to 600 Olympic-sized lakes. By 2027, projected capacity growth to 2.2 gigawatt ( GW ) could demand 35 billion litres, said Tindaro Danze, President &amp, CEO, Siemens Malaysia.

Tindaro Danze, President & CEO, Siemens Malaysia

Energy usage is another major problem, as a 100 MW data center uses as little power as 45, 000 families. By 2027, a 2.2 GW power may require power equal to 1.2 million families, nearly the entire populace of Singapore.

Now reliant on fossil fuels, data centres has transition to renewable energy, said Danze yet the network infrastructure may not be equipped to handle this shift, he cautioned, making online solutions necessary for optimising energy distribution and managing grid loads.

Moving forward, Danze said discussions must address water and energy efficiency, carbon footprint, and regulatory challenges. He added that simply constructing data centres is insufficient- Malaysia must ensure these contribute to a thriving digital economy. A coordinated effort among stakeholders is needed to establish Malaysia as a meaningful technology hub while balancing sustainability and economic impact. &nbsp,

Digital minister Gobind Singh&nbsp,

Malaysia is rapidly positioning itself as a key digital hub within Asean, recognising the critical role of data centres in shaping its digital economy, said Gobind.

” With a target to increase the digital economy’s contribution to national GDP from 23 % to 25.5 % by the end of the year, the government is committed to fostering an environment that supports both technological growth and sustainability. Given Asean’s population of 700 million, digital infrastructure and AI will be essential in driving regional success”, he said.

To support this transformation, the government is actively shaping policies and governance frameworks that ensure Malaysia remains competitive and adaptable to technological shifts.

Digital minister Gobind Singh Deo

” This includes recently introduced data centre planning guidelines that streamline approvals while balancing industrial expansion with community well-being. Thoughtful site planning and zoning regulations are being put in place to mitigate disruptions, ensuring that development aligns with national priorities”, Gobind shared.

However, he acknowledged that the rapid growth of data centres also brings challenges, particularly in resource consumption. These facilities require significant amounts of power and water, prompting the government to prioritise sustainability. Gobind pointed out that measures such as the Green Lane Pathway and upcoming guidelines on power and water efficiency- expected in 2025- reflect a commitment to responsible growth. Expanding Malaysia’s renewable energy capacity and streamlining approval processes for sustainable projects are central to this strategy.

Equally important is talent development. As Malaysia builds its digital infrastructure, bridging skill gaps remains a priority. Collaboration with industry players is key to equipping the workforce with expertise. ” The launch of the National AI Office ( NAIO ) last December further underscores Malaysia’s ambition to lead in AI, ensuring the country has the right ecosystem to drive innovation, attract investment, and support key sectors like healthcare and urban planning”, said Gobind.

With 17 new data centres expected in Selangor alone, strategic planning will be crucial to balancing expansion with sustainability. Gobind emphasised that as discussions on digital infrastructure continue, collaboration between government, industry, and experts will be vital in ensuring Malaysia remains at the forefront of the digital revolution.

The session continued with two panel discussions.

Malaysia’s readiness to be a DC hub in Asia Pacific

With panellists consisting of Ir Megat Jalaluddin, President &amp, CEO, Tenaga Nasional Bhd, Anuar Fariz Fadzil, CEO, Malaysia Digital Economy Corp, Praba Thiagarajah, Group Executive Chairperson, Basis Bay Group and Charles Santiago, Chairperson, National Water Commission ( SPAN), the discussion, moderated by Hazril Haniff, Vice-President &amp, Head of Grid Software, Siemens Malaysia touched on various aspects of Malaysia’s lure as a data centre hub including the need to address gaps in policy clarity and another issue that has surfaced with urgency since last year- the role of reclaimed water in the data centre surge.

The rising global demand for AI, e-commerce, Internet of Things ( IoT), and cloud computing is fuelling the rapid growth of the data centre industry. Malaysia is well-positioned to become a regional hub due to its strong ecosystem, which includes key factors essential for data centre operations. These factors include a reliable power supply, water-based cooling infrastructure, sufficient land availability for construction, robust connectivity, and comprehensive security measures encompassing both physical and cybersecurity.

Additionally, Malaysia’s pro-business policies make it an attractive destination for investment, leading to increasing interest from major global players looking to establish data centres in the country.

While Praba acknowledged that Malaysia has strong potential as a data centre hub, he strongly stressed that it must address gaps in policy clarity. Policymakers must act swiftly to establish foundational regulations, as setting up basic policies is an easy yet critical step that can accelerate progress.

Other countries, such as China and Vietnam, have already implemented clear standards, Praba said, leaving Malaysia at risk of falling behind. Regulatory frameworks should be in place before the industry fully matures, not after. Therefore, key ministers and policymakers are urged to prioritise swift policy implementation to ensure Malaysia remains competitive in the global digital economy.

Sharing Praba’s call for urgent action but in terms of water usage, Charles stressed that reclaimed water must be a priority in the 13th Malaysian Plan, particularly for data centres and wafer fabrication. ” Countries like India have already implemented clear policies requiring industrial use of reclaimed water, starting at 50 % and scaling to 100 %. Malaysia must follow suit to ensure sustainable water management for its growing digital infrastructure”, he said.

Charles highlighted that to achieve sustainable planning, data centres must incorporate reclaimed water and rainwater harvesting from the outset. Current developments rely too heavily on potable water, an unsustainable practice. Developers and policymakers must shift toward alternative water-sourcing strategies before construction begins to safeguard Malaysia’s water resources.

In 2024, Selangor approved 27 new data centres, requiring 79 megalitres per day ( MLD ) of water, while Johor approved 17, demanding 59 MLD. Hyperscale data centres consume disproportionately high amounts of water, with some using the equivalent of seven to eight Olympic-sized swimming pools daily. &nbsp,

According to Charles, alarmingly, some approved hyperscale centres lack direct water sources, highlighting the urgent need for strategic approval limits and water planning.

” Approval processes for data centres must be stricter and proactive, integrating reclaimed water solutions and rainwater harvesting at the design stage rather than as an afterthought”, he urged. The government must enforce clear guidelines on the number and locations of hyperscale centres, considering increasing water demand from population growth, new industries, and wafer fabrication.

Winning and sustaining business in the digital industry

The second panel of the conference comprised of, Adilah Junid, Director of Legal And Government Affairs, Microsoft Malaysia, Cheam Tat Inn, Managing Director, Equinix Malaysia, Darryll Sinnappa, Country Head, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC ), and Reiner Cham, Sales Manager, Smart Infrastructure- Electrical &amp, Automation ( EA ), Siemens Malaysia with Karamjit Singh, CEO, Digital News Asia as moderator.

According to Adilah Junid, Malaysia’s data centre growth is supported by policies covering land and water management, as well as data security regulations that establish the country as a trusted hub. &nbsp,

” These policies provide a competitive edge by ensuring data sovereignty and intellectual property protection, attracting global businesses seeking a secure and well-regulated environment”, she explained.

Cheam Tat Inn highlighted that AI is driving a transformation in data centres, increasing the demand for computing power, storage, and network capacity. ” AI-ready data centres must be purpose-built, scalable, and sustainable to meet these growing requirements”, he noted.

Cheam also observed that cloud strategies are evolving, with businesses shifting from exclusive public cloud reliance to hybrid models. ” Cloud rebalancing is where enterprises or customers want to have the right to move part of their infrastructure to on-premises or to colocation data centers, because they now realize that they want to have the freedom of running different critical business workloads across different clouds”, he said. &nbsp,

A colocation data center is a facility in which a business can rent space for servers, storage devices and other computing hardware. This shift is driven by factors such as escalating cloud costs, security concerns, unmet expectations, vendor lock-in fears, and increased compute power needs.

Cheam further explained that a new AI deployment model is emerging, shifting from moving data to the cloud for processing to bringing AI models directly to the data. ” You have the ability to move your data quickly and then seamlessly across different clouds, your control over data sovereignty, your control over any data regulation, while at the same time exploiting the full potential of AI deployments”, he said. &nbsp,

This approach enhances regulatory compliance, accelerates AI operations across geographies, and strengthens security for industries with strict data governance requirements.

Adilah Junid noted that as AI and digital services evolve, customer expectations are becoming more sophisticated. ” Users demand resiliency, scalability, availability, and security while maintaining control over workloads, including the ability to isolate certain processes from others”, she emphasized. &nbsp,

In the digital economy, AI, security, and trust are top priorities, and adoption must extend beyond large enterprises to benefit SMEs and the broader economy.

The rapid evolution of AI from 2022 to 2023 has significantly reshaped business and infrastructure needs. Companies must continuously innovate to remain competitive, yet many businesses are still in the early stages of AI adoption, requiring education and support to navigate this shift effectively.

Conclusion 

Sustainability has emerged as a key demand from customers, with businesses committing to carbon neutrality by 2030. However, AI’s increasing processing needs are driving up power consumption, requiring responsible energy management.

The growing reliance on AI raises concerns about escalating power demand and environmental impact. The industry is actively debating solutions, including renewable energy adoption and efficiency improvements in data centres, to mitigate these challenges while sustaining AI advancements.

Continue Reading

VentureTech backs Pomen to drive digital transformation for fleet maintenance and workforce management 

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • &nbsp, Investment did pull expansion into SEA, improve its platforms
  • Funds will increase products, adopt new technologies, and increase reach

VentureTECH Sdn Bhd ( VentureTECH), an impact investment company, has announced an undisclosed investment in Pomen Autodata Sdn Bhd, a Bumiputera company specialising in comprehensive Software-as-a-Service ( SaaS ) solutions focused on workforce efficiency and maintenance management — connecting demand and supply in the maintenance ecosystem. This collaboration aims to promote Pomen’s growth and enhance its impressive platforms, more digitalising the ecology for related services and operations.

Established in 2018, Pomen has emerged as a key player in incorporated SaaS options with flagship systems such as Enfleet and Engarage. Enfleet is an asset maintenance procedure management system, providing companies with clarity over their asset maintenance processes, while Engarage is a workforce management platform that enables service providers to handle end-to-end service operations. Both systems function as collaborative equipment, enhancing labor efficiency.

Trusted by consumers including Petronas, Maxis, and Edaran Otomobil Nasional Berhad, Pomen connects property owners with a community of over 2, 400 separate service companies nationwide. Through its innovative platforms, the firm is continuously enhancing its data analytics package to deliver deeper insights, predicted maintenance, and advice capabilities, with empty API integrations.

VentureTEC H’s funding may strengthen Pomen’s technical skills and push its local development into Southeast Asia. The partnership also focuses on fostering creativity, enabling Pomen to enhance its current services, connect emerging technologies, and expand its platforms to satisfy the diverse needs of industries. Through this growth, VentureTECH aims to position Pomen as a leader in digital transformation, contributing significantly to Malaysia’s evolving technology ecosystem.

Ahmad Redzuan Sidek, CEO of VentureTECH, said,” Our investment in Pomen underscores VentureTEC H’s commitment to fostering transformative local companies that champion digital innovation, socio-economic progress, and environmental sustainability. Pomen’s cutting-edge platforms address inefficiencies in the fleet maintenance ecosystem and workforce management, empowering businesses to optimise operations while creating opportunities for Bumiputera entrepreneurs to thrive in high-value sectors”.

” Beyond enhancing Pomen’s market position, this partnership will generate high-value skilled jobs in technology and engineering. By strengthening the digital ecosystem and promoting advanced technological solutions, we aim to contribute to Malaysia’s aspirations of becoming a hub for innovation”, he added.

Syed Zulhilmi Tuan Sharif, CEO of Pomen, said,” This partnership with VentureTECH marks a pivotal milestone for Pomen, validating our vision to revolutionise asset maintenance and workforce management through innovative technology. With VentureTEC H’s support, we are equipped to scale our solutions, expand our reach across various industries, and meet the growing demands of clients locally and regionally”.

” As we venture further into the ports and aviation sectors— industries that face similar challenges in asset reliability, operational efficiency, and workforce optimisation — we are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency, create value for our clients and stakeholders, and contribute to broader digital transformation initiatives”, he added.

This investment aligns with VentureTEC H’s broader strategy to bridge funding gaps and strengthen the Malaysian startup ecosystem. This strategy is further reinforced through its collaboration with Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd ( Cradle ) under the Fund Funnel Programme, which aims to establish a more structured funding pathway for startups. Pomen exemplifies this initiative’s goal of making strategic investments in high-potential companies, fostering catalytic growth in high-growth, high-value ( HGHV ) sectors, particularly in digitalisation and advanced technology solutions.

By partnering with Pomen, VentureTECH strengthens its mandate to drive HGHV sectors while advancing Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda. &nbsp,

Continue Reading

Anwar Abdullah takes the helm as CEO of Polytron.AI

By:
On:
In: Technology
  • Over 30 years of practice in Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Will drive worldwide growth, improve AI-driven Life 3DTM 360 technologies for industries

Polytron. AI, a global leader in AI-powered Live 3DTM 360 security and surveillance camera technology, has announced the appointment of Anwar Abdullah ( pic ) as its new CEO.

In his new power, Anwar will nudge the company’s global growth and lead efforts to enhance AI-driven Life 3DTM 360 technology solutions for various industries, with a special emphasis on security and surveillance. His administration coincides with the company’s mission to reinterpret the future of 360 camera tracking options, further strengthening the company as it continues to drive development and growth.

Anwar, a skilled head with over 30 years of services in Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs, brings important knowledge in high-stakes protection and crisis management to Polytron. AI. He has held important posts, including deputy executive of the Home Team Academy and deputy director of activities and plan for the Singapore Civil Defence Force. His knowledge in overseeing revolutionary security operations, leading large-scale problems management initiatives, and his broad open safety training background are set to push the next phase of growth for Polytron. AI.

” I am thrilled to join Polytron. AI at such a pivotal moment in its journey. The potential of our AI and Live 3DTM technology is immense, especially when applied to the security and surveillance sector. I look forward to leveraging my experience in crisis management and public safety to help scale our operations and drive transformative solutions that meet the needs of a rapidly evolving world”, Anwar said.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Asherson, chairman of Polytron. AI, a subsidiary of Vizzio Technologies, said:” Anwar’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Polytron. AI as we continue to redefine the future of AI-driven security and surveillance. Under his leadership, the company will accelerate innovation, expand our global footprint, and drive the adoption of next-generation security technologies that address the evolving challenges of a rapidly changing world”.

” Anwar’s experience and extensive background in security operations and crisis management give us a deeper understanding of how artificial intelligence and Polytron. AI’s unique 360 cameras can transform security workflows, enhancing situational awareness, predictive threat detection, and operational efficiency. Under his leadership, we will accelerate the integration of practical, AI-driven solutions into our product ecosystem — pushing the boundaries of AI-powered Live 3DTM technology to deliver real-time, AI 360 security intelligence”, Abu Bakar Mohd Nor, chairman of Vizzio, said.

” As we continue to scale, Anwar’s strategic vision will be instrumental in driving Polytron. AI’s growth and ensuring we remain at the forefront of next-generation security solutions. His leadership will reinforce our commitment to building AI-powered security systems that empower organisations to adapt to an increasingly complex and dynamic world”, he added.

Polytron. AI leads in AI-powered 3D video surveillance, using its patented AI SOC and neural graphics chips to merge multiple video feeds into seamless 360-degree 3D reconstructions for live 4K/8 K streaming. Its Live 3DTM AI 360 camera technology delivers zero-latency, ultra-high-definition video, enhancing situational awareness for security, surveillance, and emergency response.

Under Anwar’s leadership, Polytron. AI aims to strengthen partnerships in public safety, security, and emergency management across Asia and the Middle East. By integrating made-in-Singapore 360 3D camera technology into security infrastructure, Anwar is committed to advancing real-time monitoring, operational efficiency, and critical decision-making in security applications.

Continue Reading