Feigned reluctance: New Zealand mulled joining AUKUS from the start – Asia Times

New Zealand authorities have been considering role in AUKUS from the beginning, according to data released by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet under the Official Information Act.

Representatives from New Zealand gathered in Wellington for the first of two joint-agency meetings to discuss” Level 2 AUKUS,” which had been renamed “pillar two” on the same day the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States was announced on September 16, 2021 ( New Zealand time ).

New Zealand’s non-engagement at the time was attributed to the pact’s main objectives of providing nuclear-powered boats to Australia and its strict prohibition of nuclear-powered vessels in its regional lakes.

Then- prime minister Jacinda Ardern said:” We were n’t approached, nor would I expect us to be”.

It was n’t until March 2023 that probable “non- atomic” involvement in tech posting was officially discussed in New Zealand, during a visit by the US National Security Council coordinator for the Indo- Pacific, Kurt Campbell.

But, according to recently released details, which was obtained as a result of an Official Information Act demand,” Tier 2 AUKUS” discussions took place on September 16, 20, and 23 at Defense House in Wellington.

A month afterwards, on October 22, New Zealand government officials were advised that” there are likely to be major opportunities]for ] future cooperation with AUKUS… beyond the boats, especially in the computer and artificial intelligence places”.

Lack of detail and clarity

These earlier unnamed conferences and their “tier 2” objective suggest that AUKUS was always intended to grow, according to the presence of these meetings.

Additionally, they raise important questions about whether associate members may be viewed negatively within the agreement and whether accepting associates would serve as a way to give the alliance more legitimacy and credibility.

The notion of a “tiered” structure runs counter to new rhetoric around AUKUS. ” Foundation two” has been presented as a standalone technologies- sharing arrangement, properly delineated from pillar one’s nuclear- driven underwater deal.

This also highlights the lack of specific information regarding the proposed benefits of pillar two involvement. As it stands, we know remarkably little about the “advanced capabilities” being developed through AUKUS, due to the secrecy surrounding the pact from the beginning.

What became pillar two has since been presented as an industrial program focused on emerging technologies and job creation. It was initially intended to enhance” joint capabilities and interoperability” between the three AUKUS members.

It appears that the technology is now being used to entice potential members with opportunities for their aerospace and research sectors.

Technology sharing in practice

AUKUS is not a jobs program, according to Australian critics, but rather a strategic initiative that could ensnare members in exclusive US trade restrictions, threaten research independence, and impede international cooperation in research and development.

These concerns recently led former Australian foreign minister Bob Carr to describe pillar two as” cobbled together” and no more than “fragrant, methane- wrapped bullshit”.

Additionally, the US forces are interoperable with Pillar Two technologies. There are no guarantees that autonomous weapons systems or nuclear command, control, and communication infrastructure will use intelligence or data from AUKUS partners.

Indeed, the US has made “integrated deterrence” a core objective of its defense policy, including how it works with “allies and partners”.

Australia will be the first non-nuclear weapons-grade state to receive highly enriched, weapons-grade fissile material and nuclear-powered submarines, according to pillar one of AUKUS.

AI and other pillar two technologies are already assisting in the modernization of the US and UK nuclear weapons command and delivery systems.

Foreign nuclear-capable bombers and submarines “rotated” indefinitely through Australia, in terms of broader AUKUS interoperability.

The Treaty of Rarotonga, which establishes a nuclear-free zone in the South Pacific and forbids the use, possession, storage, and crucially stationing of nuclear weapons, is in violation of the spirit and letter of its provisions.

No limited involvement

AUKUS has important implications for Australia’s close relationship with Australia in terms of non-nuclear security and security. However, New Zealand has not so far sought to challenge Australian assurances regarding non-proliferation and compliance with the Rarotonga Treaty.

Strangely, it appears that when New Zealand officials, who are not AUKUS members, were creating public messaging about potential involvement in March 2023, designated pillar two as “non-nuclear.”

Through domestic nuclear-free legislation and support for international treaties, New Zealand has taken a leading role in nuclear disarmament. Framing pillar two as technically “non- nuclear” could compromise such advocacy in future.

Prospective partners in AUKUS must be aware that there is no such thing as truly limited involvement. The US continues to dominate in the Pacific region, the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, and potentially dangerous confrontation with China are all supported tacitly by Participation.

Additionally, it offends other important partners in New Zealand.

Few Pacific countries acknowledge climate change as a major threat to their security or believe it has a “non-nuclear” component. States of ASEAN believe it to be establishing an unfairly adversarial relationship with China.

AUKUS aims to expand a tiered, de facto alliance through integrated, nuclear- enabling technologies. This raises important questions for New Zealand regarding whether there is a meaningful distinction between pillar one and pillar two.

Both Emma Shortis and Marco de Jong teach at the Auckland University of Technology’s School of Global, Urban, and Social Studies, respectively, and both work at RMIT University’s Law School.

This article was republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Aonic launches two new drone solutions

  • appointed as Malaysia’s second DJI Enterprise Service Center.
  • Launches DJI FlyCart30, claimed to be the first- always DJI supply aircraft

L - R: Holly Huo, sales manager of Southeast Asia, DJI Enterprise, representing DJI Delivery, Crystal Chan, sales director for Asia-Pacific region, DJI Enterprise, Andrew Tham, managing director, ProDrones Asia, Cheong Jin Xi, CEO, Aonic, Jude Low, managing director, Drones Kaki Professional and Justin Lim, head of Sales of Aonic

Aonic, the reseller of DJI Enterprise options in Malaysia, has been a dominant player in the growing helicopter industry. The business announced today that it has just begun its most recent endeavor as the national distributor for DJI Delivery, a step up in the automatic logistics industry. &nbsp,

With this statement, Aonic said it has introduced two innovative device options: DJI Dock 2, from DJI Enterprise Remote Drone Operation Solutions, and DJI FlyCart 30, which it claims is the first- always DJI’s Delivery aircraft.

The business is dedicated to creating a future-proof ecosystem of options tailored to different companies. Through its six company verticals, particularly agriculture, business, services, retail, club and lifestyle, &nbsp, it provides turnkey solutions customised to meet the needs of business and corporate partners.

As a key player in the growing drone industry, Aonic has cultivated a team of in- house experts spanning R&amp, D, operations, maintenance, after- sales service, and software development to regularly provide state- of- the- art solutions to its proper partners while providing on- demand complex and maintenance support. &nbsp,

Aonic is well-positioned to provide expert knowledge and services to enterprise strategic partners looking for innovative drone solutions despite being appointed as the first DJI Enterprise Service Center in Malaysia in 2022. With the launch of DJI Delivery, the business hopes to revolutionize logistics and delivery processes.

Cheong Jin Xi, founder and CEO of Aonic, emphasised,” Our dedication to delivering end- to- end solutions and assistance across diverse industries has led to the company’s selection as the national distributor of DJI Delivery. Aonic’s commitment to providing comprehensive support and creative solutions to businesses looking to embrace the future of air mobility is further underscored by a dedicated division for DJI Delivery.

Aonic unveiled two new drone products, the DJI Dock 2 and the DJI FlyCart 30, both with distinct uses. With the use of Matrice 3D or 3TD options, DJI Dock 2, a cutting-edge” Drone in a Box,” establishes a new standard for automated drone operations. This model, 75 % smaller and 68 % lighter than its predecessor, allows flexible installation and reduced costs while integrating multiple sensors for real- time weather monitoring. It can recharge aircraft batteries from 20 % to 90 % in just 32 minutes, achieving unprecedented charging speed and efficiency.

Holly Huo, sales manager of Southeast Asia at DJI Enterprise, stated,” At DJI Enterprise, we’re committed to advancing drone technology to new heights, delivering unparalleled portability, efficiency, and localised services to meet the evolving needs of industries worldwide, serving to build a better world by continuously promoting human advancement”.

The DJI Matrice 3D models have both a wide-angle camera with a mechanical shutter and a tele camera, making them suitable for 1: 500 high-precision mapping projects. They enable the depiction of visible light and thermal images suitable for security and inspection operations and are equipped with a wide-angle camera, tele camera, and infrared camera.

Conversely, the DJI FlyCart 30 is a long- distance heavy lifter designed for delivery. On dual batteries, it can traverse 16 km in one go with a maximum payload of 30 kg, upgradeable to 40 kg with a single battery. Through its cargo and winch modes, which are intended for various types of goods delivery, the drone ensures reliability and safety from takeoff to landing.

The drone’s smooth, steady operation is supported by an expanded polypropylene case for simple loading and unloading in cargo mode. The Winch mode provides a more flexible and precise approach, using a retractable cable controlled either manually or automatically, ensuring safe and precise delivery.

Overall, the DJI FlyCart 30 is a safe, economical, and efficient air transport solution with a maximum flight speed of 20 m/s using carbon fiber propellers, supporting DJI OccuSync 3.0 video transmission over up to 20 km.

The standard package for DJI FlyCart 30 includes the FlyCart 30 Aircraft, DB2000 Intelligent Flight Battery, DJI C8000 Intelligent Battery Station, DJI RC Plus ( Delivery ), DJI FlyCart 30 Winch System Kit, and 2600W 4- Channel Intelligent Battery Charger- PART01 and AC Cable ( America Version ).

Customers can select a bundle that includes the DJI Matrice 3D Series Intelligent Flight Battery, DJI Matrice 3D Charging Kit, and DJI Matrice 3D Series Propellers for DJI Dock 2. The DJI Matrice 3D or DJI Matrice 3TD drones are available in a variety of price ranges.

Further details about the products can be found at https ://www.aonic.com/my /

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Apple needs China more than China needs Apple – Asia Times

Apple has slipped to second place in China’s smartphone sales position, outsold by regional rivals Huawei, OPPO, Honor and live.

Apple’s iPhone and Chinese smartphones are closing the achievement distance, while some Americans are stifling the US government’s attempts to support local businesses has resulted in buying local.

Due to security concerns, Chinese authorities have also placed local regulations on Apple, including restrictions on using smartphones at some state agencies and state-linked businesses in at least eight provinces.

Employees at the aforementioned organizations and firms, including those in rich maritime areas, have been advised to instead purchase and employ local cellphone brands since December. Apple was given a Chinese law enforcement notice earlier this month to stop selling the social media platform Threads and Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service from its China software store.

The effects of those restrictions on Apple’s declining regional income is hard to disaggregate. Apple has slipped in nearby positions despite using more, not fewer, Chinese manufacturers and Apple CEO Tim Cook’s regular visits to China to proclaim his company’s responsibility to China’s business.

Apple’s smartphone unit revenue dropped 25 % yr- on- year in the second quarter of 2024 while its market share fell from 20 % to 15 % over the same time, according to tech industry research firm Canalys.

Sources: Data from Canalys, chart by Asia Times

Huawei’s sales were up 71 %, lifting its market share from 10 % to 17 %. Additionally, OPPO and vivo lost market share, though not as much as Apple. Honor, a discount brand spun off from Huawei, increased its share from 14 % to 16 %. Xiaomi ranked sixth, close behind Apple.

Sources: Data from Canalys, chart by Asia Times

The data from Counterpoint Market Pulse is slightly different, but it also shows significant declines for Apple and significant gains for Huawei.

According to Apple’s supplier list for the previous fiscal year, Chinese companies have increased their lead, increasing by 30 %. Taiwanese, American and Japanese companies continued to rank second, third and fourth, though all their numbers declined.

The list includes 187 companies which, according to Apple, accounted for 98 % of the company’s direct spending on materials, manufacturing and assembly in fiscal 2023, which ended last September.

Vietnamese and Thai businesses on the list increased in response to the exodus of low-cost assembly operations from Southeast Asia to China.

Nikkei Asia’s analysis shows 40 % growth in the number operating in Vietnam to 35 but 13 of them are actually Chinese suppliers.

Although the number of South Korean businesses on the list decreased while the number of European ones increased, their shares of the total were each less than 10 %. 14 Indian companies remain, or 2 % of the total.

More surprising, perhaps, is that Apple’s list shows that more than 80 % of the company’s suppliers have a presence in China.

” There’s no supply chain in the world that’s more critical to us than China. Apple CEO Cook stated on a March trip to China that “we’ve been building up and investing more and more.” ” Today’s factories are so much more modern. And in 10 years from now, we will keep advancing”.

Among the eight new recent Apple suppliers in China, identified are Baoji Titanium Industry, thermal interface and graphite supplier Jones Tech, ultra-fine wire producer Zhejiang Tony Electronic, printing and packaging company Paishing, San’an Optoelectronics, and precision component and manufacturing service provider Shenzhen BSC Technology.

DigiTimes also noticed that four Chinese businesses had been taken off of Apple’s list of suppliers in order to win over the Chinese government. Additionally, Apple is actively expanding its production in India and Southeast Asia.

However, it is clearly not reducing its involvement with China, where it still accounts for 17 % of its manufacturing output in the fourth quarter of 2023 and contributed to its growth. How it will deal with its accelerating loss of market share in China, however, is another story.

Follow this writer on&nbsp, X: @ScottFo83517667

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Ant International picks Malaysia for its Digital Business Centre, hiring 500 with eye to grow ‘huge operations centre’

  • Multi- tribal culture coupled with skill, cost based, friendly policies important draw
  • Give companies from all 4 key columns of Ant International’s company to worldwide customers

(From left): Nina Xiao, HR Director of Ant International; Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International; Nik Naharudin, Director, Digital Talent & Entrepreneurship, Digital Industry Acceleration Division, MDEC; Nik Hishamuddin, Head (Tertiary), Digital Talent & Entrepreneurship Department, Digital Industry Acceleration Division, MDEC.

If you thought the release of five online banks last year had stirred up the competition for blockchain talent in Malaysia, then reconsider.

With the statement in KL on April 19 from Singapore-based Ant International, which Alibaba founded in 2012 and currently owns a 33 % stake in, that it plans to establish a online business center in Malaysia with a staff of 500 executives by 2025 and plans for ongoing getting into 2028, the competition really got a lot more cooked.

The majority of the roles will be tech and knowledge focused, with the biggest team being the Technology and Development department composed of software engineers, followed by product &amp, design ( UX, UI, product design ), data science, business development, finance, management, and risk control.

For each of these agencies, Ant International is bringing in a whole set of responsibilities said Nina Xiao, HR Director of Ant International. For example, in data research it will have data technology and modelling, risk data, business data and operating data expertise. ” So that’s to say that we mean it for real. We are bringing in all the features for the center here in Malaysia”, she stressed.

While there are many places where Ant International may have chosen to have a Digital Business Center, Malaysia is not only juicy with skills and opportunities but it also has quite forward-looking policies, and a government that supports the development of a digital market, Douglas Feagin, chairman of Ant International, explained why the Singapore-based international business arm of the Hangzhou based Ant Group Ptd Ltd. had chosen Malaysia for this expansion.

The country’s multi- ethnic culture fabric is another strong draw, compared to other markets said Xiao,” So that’s why I think, if we’re setting up our global centers, Malaysia could be one of the destinations as (our ) people who are coming here wo n’t feel it’s so difficult to blend in”.

aims to construct a massive operations center in Malaysia

Feagin says Ant International wants to establish” a huge operations center in Malaysia” over the next 10 to 20 years, starting with the 500 executive officers the company is ready to hire right away, while expressing confidence in their investment in Malaysia, where it sees “huge long term growth.”

To be clear, the center in Malaysia is not specialized in serving customers from Malaysia or Southeast Asia. It will be handling customers from all over the world with the long-term growth that Ant International anticipates coming from the early stages of adoption of both digital payments and business digitization, with Ant International developing the tools to assist businesses in adopting digital. &nbsp,

Without disclosing the investment amount, Feagin stressed that Ant International will be investing a lot,” and that’s both the initial investment, then the ongoing investment”.

It helps that Southeast Asia makes up the largest portion of Ant International’s global business, said Feagin. While Ant International has also expanded in Singapore, moving into larger premises last year, Malaysia, with its combination of talent, world class infrastructure, strong digital economy push and cost advantage, is where the action is going to be for the group, which has confirmed that it will be moving into the premium Exchange 106 tower ( formerly known as TRX Signature Tower ).

This Malaysian center will be where we have the most people and be a core engine of our growth, Feagin said. Here, we will represent all of our various business ventures.

By all, he means the four key pillars of Ant International’s business:

    Cross-border mobile payment service Alipay , which connects over 88 million merchants to 1.5 billion consumer accounts on over 25 e-wallets and banking apps in 57 nations and regions, enables customers to travel and make payments worry-free across borders, and allows retailers to develop cross-border consumer engagement and digital marketing. Alipay is integrated with Malaysia’s national QR, DuitNow QR.

  • Antom Merchant Payment Services, a service that assists global retailers in digital communication with customers in Asia and the world.
  • With its World Account, WorldFirst has created a digital payment and financial service for cross-border trade SMEs, helping over 1 million SMEs expand internationally. By 2024, it plans to serve Malaysian SMEs.
  • The Monetary Authority of Singapore regulates ANEXT Bank, a digital wholesale bank focused on providing SMEs with simple, affordable financial services.

According to Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC ),” The opening of the new Digital Business Center in Malaysia plays an important role for local tech talent to thrive in the digital industry.” He added that Ant International’s decision will also lead to the creation of investment opportunities and “position Malaysia as the digital hub of ASEAN.”

Career development for young talent

In order to support its aggressive hiring plans, Ant International intends to work with local partners to develop the tech talent it needs, including through initiatives like its 10×1000 online platform, an open and global learning community, and to foster and inspire future digital leaders through &nbsp, mentorship exposure with Ant International’s leaders. It has trained 120 people in the nation over the past few years, with the aid of partners like MDEC, TNG Digital, and the Fintech Association of Malaysia, with the help of pf partners like TNG Digital and the Fintech Association of Malaysia, with 33 % of those being female.

Additionally, it is laying out the welcome mat for recent graduates and interns with Xiao, highlighting the strong culture at Ant International and the company’s potential for rapid career growth as the company develops. She points to the company’s chief technology officer. She continued,” He started with us over ten years ago and is now the CTO,” noting that this is not an isolated example because many of its key technology leaders today started out as fresh graduates who grew with the business.

The business also fosters a culture of sharing experience. For each newcomer, we’ll pair them with an experienced senior as their buddy to give them daily guidance and professional career advice to ease them into the new working environment and learn quickly, Xiao said.

” Those who join our team will have a front row seat to global fintech innovation and collaborations, and they will play a role in our mission to influence the future of fintech and commerce,” said Feagin.

He expressed his excitement at the prospect of launching a new chapter of Ant International’s Journey in Malaysia, where they have contributed for the past ten years.

With the Malaysian government encouraging the development of tech skills and positioning Malaysia as an innovation hub,” We are now looking forward to a future that is more global, more connected, and more inclusive.” We think that working with partners like MDEC can significantly increase the impact our local tech talents can have both globally and locally.

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TTM Technologies celebrates grand opening of its first manufacturing facility  in Penang 

  • Aims to create 1, 000 work for local skills by 2025
  • New flower expected to generate around US$ 180 million by 2025.

Officiating the Grand Opening Ceremony of TTM Technologies Malaysia Facility (from left to right) Mr. Douglas Soder, Executive Vice President and President of Commercial Sector, TTM Technologies, Inc.; Teik Ming Ng, vice president and general manager, TTM Technologies Malaysia Sdn Bhd; Najihah Abas, executive director, Investment Promotion of MIDA; Chow Kon Yeow, chief minister of Penang; Loo Lee Lian, CEO, InvestPenang; Thomas Edman, president, and CEO, TTM Technologies, Inc., and Philip Titterton, executive vice president and chief operating officer, TTM Technologies, Inc.

TTM Technologies, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of technology solutions including mission systems, radio frequency ( RF ) components and RF microwave/microelectronic assemblies, and quick- turn and technologically advanced printed circuit boards (PCBs ), has officially opened its first manufacturing plant in Penang, Malaysia with an investment of US$ 200 million ( RM958 million ).

Built on 27 acres in Penang Science Park, the firm’s condition- of- the- art facility boasts extremely impressive and integrated PCB manufacturing capabilities. The near collaboration between TTM and its customers has led to this job, which seeks to address the growing need for Circuit supply chain resilience and physical producing diversity. &nbsp,

TTM added that the herb is customised to help large production requirements in various business finish markets, including network, data centre computing, medical, professional, and instrumentation.

The chief minister of Penang, Chow Kon Yeow, stated,” Penang is proud to be the place where TTM’s first large-scale, highly automated, and modern Board manufacturing plant is set up in Southeast Asia. This also indicates the assurance that foreign traders have placed in the state.”

He continued,” Penang has the abilities and capabilities to meet the needs of professional players in next-generation technologies and development strategies. It is frequently praised for its well-developed technological ecosystem. I’m confident that TTM’s activity in Penang, the Silicon Valley of the East, may have a number of advantages.

Chow Kon Yeow, Pn., presided over the standard opening ceremony for TTM’s Penang flower. Najihah Abas, executive director, Investment Promotion of Malaysian Investment Development Authority ( MIDA ), Loo Lee Lian, CEO, InvestPenang, Thomas Edman, president, and CEO, TTM Technologies, Inc., Philip Titterton, executive vice president and chief operating officer, TTM Technologies, Inc., senior government officials, and TTM’s senior management.

By 2025, TTM’s Penang plant will enable the creation of about 1, 000 job opportunities for local talent in a variety of industries. The expansion will support cultivate the skills of native professional talent in cutting-edge PCB technology solutions and may lead to significant opportunities for TTM’s local suppliers.

TTM anticipates that the fresh plant may produce full move level income of about US$ 180 million ( RM855 million ) by 2025. However, the plant is built to help a Step two rise that could result in a 25 cent increase. &nbsp, &nbsp,

Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO, MIDA emphasised,” It brings me great pleasure to underscore the significant benefits TTM Technologies ‘ investment brings to Malaysia’s electrical and electronics ( E&amp, E) industry, especially within the semiconductor sector. Malaysia is now a significant player in the global semiconductor supply ring thanks to TTM’s skills in high-tech options and advanced printed circuit boards.

He added that TTM’s center in Penang improves Malaysia’s E& E industry’s capacity for growth and endurance as well as its ability to compete with other countries for the next generation of Circuit manufacturing.

This growth, which focuses on strengthening the silicon habitat, perfectly corresponds with the strategic priorities outlined in the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. It opens avenues for skill enhancement and information sharing among native talents, reinforcing Malaysia’s stature on the world stage as a dynamic, technologically advanced nation”, Sikh Shamsul said.TTM Technologies celebrates grand opening of its first manufacturing facility  in Penang 

Meanwhile, Thomas Edman ( pic ) commented,” The opening of our flagship plant in Penang marks a significant milestone for TTM. With a state-of-the-art facility that underscores our commitment to providing our customers with specialized advanced technology PCB solutions on a global scale, we are thrilled to begin this expansion plan.

He added,” As we step into this new era of innovation and expansion, we are committed to elevating industry standards, meeting customer needs, and propelling TTM’s growth as a new contributor to the Malaysian economy”.

” Penang’s strong industrial eco-system, position as the hub for electrical and electronic equipment, strong talent pool, and conducive business environment have made it a preferred location for TTM,” said Penang. Only two years after our initial ground-breaking, TTM is now entering our production ramp due to the outstanding support of the government and the efforts of our employees. As TTM builds our presence in Penang, we eagerly anticipate a longstanding relationship and mutually rewarding partnership with the Malaysian government, our customers, and our critical vendors”, Edman said.

Besides contributing to the industry’s needs, TTM is strongly committed to protecting its staff, community, customers, and the environment. The new facility’s goal is to advance its sustainability efforts by reducing the amount of energy and water used while still adhering to stringent environmental operational requirements. It will also reduce the carbon footprint by 60 % when compared to a traditional PCB plant.

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Petronas, CelcomDigi collaborate to advance 5G techno-digital transformation and sustainability for the energy sector

  • Collaboration aims to connect clean energy options into CelcomDigi’s products
  • Both parties to look into 5G-enabled techno-digital initiatives to enhance Petronas ‘ activities.

(From Left) Sy Malek Faisal Sy Mohamad, Gentari head of Renewables for Malaysia and SEA; Aadrin Azly, PETRONAS group technology and commercialisation vice president; Albern Murty, CelcomDigi’s Deputy CEO; Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof, PETRONAS Project Delivery and Technology senior vice president; Shah Yang Razalli, Gentari Deputy CEO; Afizulazha Abdullah, CelcomDigi’s chief enterprise business officer, at the MoU signing ceremony.

Using the power of 5G, Petronas and CelcomDigi are collaborating to accelerate efforts to address conservation and modern change for the energy sector.

The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Petronas Vice President of Group Technology and Commercialisation, Aadrin Azly, CelcomDigi’s Deputy CEO, Albern Murty, and Gentari’s Deputy CEO and CEO of Gentari Green Mobility, Shah Yang Razalli. Petronas’s Senior Vice President of Project Delivery and Technology, Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof, was likewise present at the filing service.

The strategic partnership will look at potential techno-digital business initiatives using 5G technology over the course of two years to ensure constant improvement of Petronas ‘ businesses. Moreover, it will look into merging clean power solutions into CelcomDigi’s business offerings to generate adoption among Indonesian businesses.

According to Aadrin Azly,” Petronas plays a significant role in supporting the national systems agenda to strengthen Malaysia’s foreign standing in innovation.” Last time, we pioneered the use of 5G systems for business in Malaysia, and our activities were made more efficient.

He continued,” This association gives us a fantastic opportunity to increase the power of 5G for our business and the society as a whole.” To meet the growing need for credible high-speed internet access in the oil and gas industry, we propose creating a strong network infrastructure.

However, CelcomDigi’s Albern Murty said,” The MoU presents an opportunity to promote the reform of oil and gas businesses powered by 5G communication. We have collaborated attentively with Petronas over the past five years to test digital use cases and implement personal 4G LTE networks on onshore platforms. Collectively, we have realised useful online applications for rig operations, for example, what used to be an edge test case of ‘ connected rig workers’ is today a must- have to keep rig workers creative and secure” .&nbsp,

He continued,” We look forward to scaling 5G-related changes across other business regions, utilizing real-time communication and information analytics to optimize operations and actualize our shared clean electricity aspirations for the oil and gas sector.”

Since implementing the first personal 4G LTE channel on Angsi, one of the largest offshore programs for the company, Petronas and CelcomDigi have a long-standing relationship going back to 2019. Since then, the collaboration has resulted in 21 fully 4G connected offshore platforms. Additionally, both parties have worked together to improve and optimize connectivity infrastructures in Petronas plants, enabling consistent connectivity to power digital solutions that increase operational efficiency.

The first fully functional private 5G network has been deployed on Petronas ‘ flagship offshore platform, Kasawari Carbon Capture and Storage, near Sarawak, according to the most recent project. Leveraging 5G and best practices in oil and gas solutions, Kasawari will be a test bed for 5G use cases, activating more digital innovations. Successful use cases can be adopted for other connected offshore platforms, paving the way for Petronas to quickly modernize its operations and adopt new sustainability practices, building on the solid foundation of the last five years of private network deployment.

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MRANTI inks MOU with Zhongguancun Science Park in China

  • The purpose of this project is to promote technological advancement and creativity in Malaysia.
  • Events commit to five strategic activities designed to promote reciprocal exchange.

(from Left): Wang Chongwu, Level-4 Researcher of Zhongguancun Science City Administrative Committee; Wang Tonghui, Executive Director of ZGC Science City LTD; Yao Hongbo, General Manager of ZGC Science City LTD; Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mosti; Ts. Dr. Mohd Nor Azman Hassan, Deputy Secretary General (Technology Development), Mosti; Dr Rais Hussin, Chief Executive Officer, MRANTI; and Prof Dr Rofina Yasmin Othman, Chairman MRANTI.

Clearly Malaysian innovation agency, MRANTI’s visit last Dec to China’s leading science, technology and innovation hub, Zhongguancun Science Park ( Z- Park ), left an indelible impression on Dr Rais Hussin, CEO of MRANTI as he led another delegation to Beijing, China, where Z- Park is located to sign an MOU today with the Beijing Zhongguancun Science City Innovation Development Co Ltd witnessed by Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation ( MOSTI).

The two organizations have agreed to five strategic initiatives in accordance with the MoU’s conditions that aim to encourage significant technological and technology advancements. The five engagement areas are:

    Establish a powerful technique for personnel markets to leverage each other’s experiences when managing Science and Technology parks. This partnership is anticipated to encourage reciprocal learning and development and increase the application of best practices.

  1. Education and seminars: Enhancing innovative capabilities, constructing strong technology ecosystems, incubating tech businesses, and transforming scientific research into business success.
  2. Common benchmarking and a knowledge visit system: To promote immediate interactions and cooperative endeavors between businesses from both nations and to promote business collaboration and market expansion through planned visits.
  3. Creative research: By combining the strengths of both entities, the program aims to address global challenges and obtain business- redefining breakthroughs.
  4. Soft-landing services for industry entry: Both organizations may offer soft-landing services that will enable businesses to understand new opportunities with greater ease and confidence.

” This engagement underscores the deepening collaboration between Malaysia and China, especially in the critical fields of technology, engineering, and innovation”, said Chang.

The Minister further underscored the broad approach of the agreement, adding,” We are eager to expand our cooperation across different sectors, including connectedness, the online business, the natural economy, present agriculture, and biomedicine. This reflects our complementary goals and our ability to make significant headway up.

Rais argued that cooperation is necessary to provide access to capital, business, skill, and innovation for both Malaysia and China.

” For Malaysia, the ability to access the vast Chinese business, access to funding/capital through the 80 rainbows in Zhongguancun Science Park, and not to mention the highly developed skills and creativity that can have a significant impact on the country and culture. Exciting times ahead indeed”, Rais added.

Zhongguancun Science Park is home to nearly 22, 000 high- tech companies, with an average of 90 new businesses being created each day. Global companies such as Lenovo, Baidu, Xiaomi and Beigene started up from there, as did over 80 Unicorn companies such as Toutiao, Mggvii and Cambricon. Over 200 branches and R&amp, D centres of the world’s Top 500 companies have offices there as well.

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Under Endeavor Malaysia umbrella, Janio secures a spot at Endeavor’s 98th International Selection Panel 

  • ISP provides a platform for companies to gain access to resources, coaching
  • Initiative supports 25 businesses through the ISP, confirming its dedication to fostering innovative growth.

Under Endeavor Malaysia umbrella, Janio secures a spot at Endeavor’s 98th International Selection Panel 

In a stride towards global influence and expansion, logistics startup, Janio achieves a milestone as its co- founder and CEO, Ng Jun Kai ( pic ) &nbsp, attains the status of Endeavor Entrepreneur at the 98th International Selection Panel ( ISP) held from March 25th to 27th, 2024, in Vietnam.

The ISP represents the culmination of Endeavor’s comprehensive collection process to find influential businesspeople around the world. It seeks founders who can make considerable money and job opportunities with Endeavor while also investing in their native ecosystems. The system offers entry to mentorship, resources, and networks to help entrepreneurs to make a world economic effect.

” Importantly, Ng’s vision and skills at the ISP left a profound impression”, remarked Tiger Fang, inc- founder of Kargo and one of the ISP participants. ” His entrepreneurial endurance is amazing, especially in the wake of the challenges of the post-Covid time. He is doing a remarkable job of surviving that wind and coming out of it even stronger.

” With majority agreement, we welcome Ng to the Mission area, anticipating a transformative trip forward. We anticipate the creative advancements and growth opportunities he may bring, Fang continued.

Janio, a fourth-party shipping company founded in 2018, manages supply stores from beginning to end through strategic partnerships. The company offers flexible services and data-driven solutions to improve supply chains effectively with a system of 300 logistics partners. Serving 2, 800 brands, including Nike, Goat, and Disney, alongside FedEx and Cainiao, Janio handles US$ 300 million ( RM1.4 billion ) in goods monthly, boasting a 98 % on- time delivery rate. The projected revenue for 2024 stands at US$ 34.5 million ( RM165 million ).

Ng expressed appreciation to Endeavor Malaysia for the knowledge the ISP and the opportunity to interact with companies and instructors around the world by thanking them for their guidance and support throughout this journey.

” My resolve to globalise Janio and help companies ‘ growth is stronger than ever with Endeavor’s support, empowering me to make a major global impact”, he added.

Janio will receive access to a number of comprehensive strategic support services as Endeavor expands its help. This includes visits to international business coaches and investors in an effort to address pressing issues and speed up their operations. Mission Malaysia supports 25 businesses that have passed the ISP selection process, more demonstrating its dedication to fostering innovative growth and success in the area.

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She Loves Tech, Digital Penang lead Malaysia’s Entry into the tech competition for women founders

  • Aims to foster Malaysia as a gateway for startups&nbsp,
  • Opposition promotes necessity of sex inclusivity

She Loves Tech, Digital Penang lead Malaysia’s Entry into the tech competition for women founders

Digital Penang, a Penang State GLC, has announced its association with She Loves Tech, recognised as the country’s largest acceleration program for people in systems. Additionally, it asserts to be the biggest software on the planet dedicated to closing the gender funding gap.

Digital Penang invites people technology members from all industry sectors to take part in the 2024 She Loves Tech Startup worldwide competition, which has been officially appointed as Malaysia-level Key Selection Partner for its eighth celebration.

This collaboration and competition coincide with Malaysia’s imperative to develop the nation as a hub for startups, as just lauded by the Ministry of Economy and Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. Additionally, the celebration emphasizes the importance of gender equality, especially with the participation of Malaysian women tech founders.

Digital Penang and She Loves Tech so welcome all state and national government organizations and private organizations involved in promoting people in technology to meet these collective efforts to promote and support women-led Indonesian companies in this global rivals.

The contest will not only draw attention to Malaysia’s vibrant tech sector, but it will also encourage economic growth and encourage the creation of novel alternatives that have the ability to have an impact on both domestic and international markets.

The partnership between She Loves Tech and Digital Penang, which serves as Malaysia’s standard key collection partner for the worldwide competition, is a testament to the state government’s commitment to raising awareness and promoting the inclusion of women in technology. This endeavor should not only be limited to Penang but also be extended to the entire country to give opportunities for all women there to share their ideas and solutions that are affecting the country’s economy, according to Zairil Khir Johari, the Penang State EXCO for Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital.

Participants in She Loves Tech must be women-led tech startups with a gender perspective, have received seed funding under US$ 5 million ( RM24 million ), and have a minimum viable product that has not been developed beyond the conceptual stage.

Additionally, they must meet at least one of the following gender lens criteria:

  • Founded by a woman
  • Majority female users
  • Majority female consumers
  • Technology having a positive effect on women

Participants at the regional level will gain a wide range of opportunities to connect with an international network of mentors, partners, and investors as well as extensive exposure to a global audience. All women who are eligible for this are invited to use this opportunity to create innovative solutions that positively affect Malaysian women.

For more details on the application process and to register for the competition, please visit https ://www .shelovestech .org/competition. The deadline for applications is April 22 through May 30th, 2024.

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Digital Nasional Berhad appoints new members to its Board of Directors 

  • Nominations take effect on April 24, 2024.
  • DNB looks forward to the new club’s type in advancing M’sia’s online network

Digital Nasional Berhad appoints new members to its Board of Directors 

Following the Share Subscription Agreements that DNB, MOF Inc., and five Mobile Network Operators signed on December 20, 2018, Digital Nasional Berhad ( DNB) has announced the appointment of new Board members. The new Board members will include senior executives from the telecommunications and technology sector. The session takes effect on April 24, 2024.

Johan Mahmood Merican and Ma Sivanesan Marimuthu, the two different two current people, will join the five fresh people on DNB’s table.

The new committee members and their replacements are as follows:

MNO

Director

Alternate Director

CelcomDigi ( Infranation Sdn Bhd )

Datuk Kamal Khalid

Maxis Broadband&nbsp, Sdn Bhd

Uthaya Kumar A/L K Vivekananda

U Mobile Sdn Bhd

Chang Yit Fei

Tan Kok Leong

Telekom Malaysia Berhad

Nik Azli Abu Zahar

Mohamed Tajul Mohamed Sultan

YTL Power International Berhad

Yeoh Seok Hong

Dr. Fadhlullah Suhaimi Abdul Malek

Coc stated that it looks forward to hearing from the newly formed table in terms of driving the development of Malaysia’s modern facilities and the implementation of 5G systems across sectors, businesses, the public market, and consumers.

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