CIMB Group, through its entities CIMB Bank Berhad (“CIMB Bank”) and CIMB
Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB Islamic”) have entered into a strategic partnership with Credit
Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (“CGC”) to provide small and medium enterprises
(“SMEs”) access to RM2 billion in financing through CGC’s Portfolio Guarantee-i scheme.

The strategic partnership was signed by KJ Balan, Head, SME Banking Malaysia, Group
Commercial Banking, CIMB Bank and Leong Weng Choong, Chief Business Officer of CGC,
witnessed by Dato’ Mohamed Ross Mohd Din, Chairman of CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad; Rafe
Haneef, CEO, Group Islamic Banking, CIMB Group; Ahmad Shazli Kamarulzaman, Deputy CEO, Group Commercial Banking, CIMB Group; Choong Tuck Oon, Director, CGC, Datuk Mohd Zamree Mohd Ishak, President/CEO, CGC and Rahim Raduan, Chief Corporate Officer, CGC.

This financing scheme will see CIMB Bank and CIMB Islamic disburse up to RM2 billion through Portfolio Guarantee-i, an Islamic working capital financing where 70 percent of the loan amount is guaranteed by CGC, without collateral. Financing amount is up to RM1 million per customer, with maximum tenure of seven years.

Victor Lee Meng Teck, CEO of Group Commercial Banking, CIMB Group, said, “We’re pleased to partner with CGC in nation building as SMEs are projected to contribute 41 percent to Malaysia’s GDP by 2020. CIMB is also committed to support the SME industry not only in Malaysia, but also across ASEAN, powered by CIMB’s 800 branches and 2,000 relationship managers.

“In line with CIMB’s next mid-term growth plan, our refocused proposition includes an investment of more than RM300 million in the next five years to strengthen our end-to-end tech-driven SME banking solutions to help transform our customers’ business.”

Datuk Mohd Zamree Mohd Ishak, President / CEO of CGC, said, “I am pleased to share that
over the last six years, both CIMB and CGC have successfully launched 13 Portfolio Guarantee Schemes totalling RM1.4 billion, benefiting over 2,000 SMEs.”

CIMB Bank recently announced its commitment to disburse at least RM15 billion in the next two years to help 100,000 SMEs in Malaysia, particularly for financing below RM500,000, in support of the government’s push for an entrepreneur-friendly enabling environment to boost Malaysia’s economy.

CIMB Bank disbursed a total of RM17.8 billion in 2016-2018 to support the growth of 17,000 Malaysian SMEs by providing working capital, asset financing and trade finance. Its latest offerings include leveraging business assets as additional working capital; and extending unsecured loans to SMEs who are awaiting their GST refund. The latter is offered at a lower interest rate, with a flexible payment period and interest servicing up to six months, to help small businesses manage their cash flow.

CIMB also sees huge potential in its unique halal corridor proposition, with its strong ecosystem and regional network that could support SMEs’ venture into the export market beyond Malaysian borders. Focusing on agribusiness, cosmetics, F&B, modest fashion and pharmaceuticals, CIMB’s halal corridor proposition is poised to help SMEs access, for example, the ASEAN-China corridor with a combined customer base of 266 million Muslims.

IDC believes that  local organisations are required to become digitally determined as digital
disruption intensifies in Malaysia. To be digitally determined, local organisations require a
blueprint that consists of a unified enterprise strategy, a long-term investment plan based on the principle that digital is inherently valuable to the business, and a single digital platform to scale technology innovations. The key to success in the next few years require changes to organisational structures and mind-sets.

“The digital disruption is becoming obvious in most industries and the pace of digital
transformation (DX) acceleration has heightened. During the first wave of digital transformation, organisations realised that digital technologies should be a core part of any business, and successful strategies. Today, we are entering into a brand new phase where many organisations have recognised the full benefits of DX and are investing in digital innovations with the intention to disrupt the marketplace.,” said Sudev Bangah, Managing Director IDC ASEAN.

Speaking at the annual CIO Summit at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur recently, Bangah added, “The market is moving along at a pace faster than we all think and it is now driven by a customer-centric and empowered workforce, and processes that fuels more efficient operations, new revenue streams and customer loyalty through use of the technology and data. This is the right time to recognize many organisations are scaling up on innovations where continuous enterprise-wide digital innovation is in place, transforming markets through innovative business models and digitally enabled products and services.”

The IDC CIO Summit 2019 themed “Race to Reinvent: The Digital Determination
Playbook” aims to help CIOs to piece together a playbook for taking their organisation from
being Digitally Distraught to Digitally Determined. The Summit brought together more than 100 regional industry leaders and prominent CIOs across the Malaysia.

The insights offered at this event aims at helping top business leaders plan their strategy in advance to deliver solutions that meet the challenges of today’s disrupted market conditions. Some topics include case studies on innovation, customer centricity, digital business operations, and reinventing the workforce.

Alibaba.com, a global B2B platform of Alibaba Group, is partnering with Exabytes Network Sdn Bhd (“Exabytes”), Malaysia’s leading web hosting and cloud service provider, to
accelerate exports from small-and-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the northern region of Malaysia.

As a part of this partnership, Alibaba.com will appoint Exabytes as an authorised Global Gold Supplier (GGS) membership Channel Partner. The appointment will enable Exabytes to promote GGS memberships in Malaysia and enroll Malaysian SMEs in the states of Kedah, Penang, Perak and Perlis into the platform to help them tap into millions of buyers worldwide and to discover new business opportunities.

The partnership was announced during its launch today in the presence of Yang Amat Berhormat Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, accompanied by Eric Zhang, Head of Operations, Alibaba.com, Malaysia and Chan Kee Siak, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Exabytes Network.

Speaking at the ceremony, YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang said, “Malaysia’s digital economy, with e-commerce being one of the key components, is at its fast-growing phase. Against this backdrop, I strongly encourage SMEs and local businesses to innovate and make the most of the benefits available out there. The development of SMEs in tandem with the technology change is crucial, given that SMEs provided two thirds of total jobs in Malaysia and contributed 37 percent of the total GDP in 2017.

“I am hopeful that this partnership between Alibaba.com and Exabytes will further encourage local SMEs to digitise their businesses and achieve bigger goals by making their business successful beyond Malaysia.”

Meanwhile, Joey Zhu, Malaysia Country Manager of Alibaba.com said:  “The growing volume and potential of cross-border trade for SMEs makes this partnership very valuable to the local business traders in the Northern region.

 “It not only helps them tap into newer markets, but also takes away some of the pain of
digitising their business. Our partnership with Exabytes will help us better serve the needs of local SMEs and businesses as they accelerate and excel in cross border e-commerce. Together with Exabytes, we will be organising a series of educational seminars, workshops and sessions in this region to empower and enable more local SMEs and businesses to benefit from Alibaba’s ecosystem.”

Chan Kee Siak, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Exabytes Network said, “We are honored to be selected as Alibaba.com’s partner. This partnership is a great opportunity for us to continue on with our mission to make it easy for SMEs to grow business online. We can now introduce to them Alibaba.com, an easy and convenient way to reach to buyers located around the world on a single platform.

In addition, this partnership can help strengthen Exabytes’ position as a leading cloud service provider for SMEs in Malaysia.”

“Going global isn’t just for large enterprises. Our team plans to carry out various programs including organising workshops to share knowledge about global e-commerce trends and we’ll invite local SMEs to attend,” added Chan.

The partnership represents the latest initiative by Alibaba under the Electronic World Trade Platform (eWTP) to help Malaysians SMEs seize global cross-border trade opportunities by taking advantage of the Alibaba ecosystem.

In July 2018, with the support of Malaysian agencies such as the Malaysia Digital
Economic Corporation (MDEC), the Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysia’s Trade Promotion Bureau and Tourism Malaysia, Alibaba launched a week-long campaign to promote brand awareness of Malaysian businesses and products on its online marketplaces with more than 50 Malaysian companies participating.

Alibaba.com is committed to help SMEs play an important role in nation building, currently making up over 90 percent of business entities in Malaysia. With digital economy being the growth engine of the nation’s economic growth, Alibaba.com is committed to help these businesses accelerate cross-border e-commerce trade.

PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad (PDB) closed 2018 with a commendable performance, sustaining its Profit Before Tax at above RM1 billion and sales volume at 14.9 billion litres despite continued volatility of the industry and stiff competition. This demonstrates the Company’s resilience in fuelling growth, balancing immediate targets and growing for the future.

With a robust financial year ending 2018, PDB declared a total dividend of 70 sen per ordinary share at the Company’s 37^th Annual General Meeting. The dividend represents a payout ratio of 81 percent – the highest dividend payout ratio since 2014.

Speaking at the Meeting, PDB’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Syed Zainal said, “Our solid results are attributable to the team’s focused execution of the business strategies, supported by integrated inventory management, efficiency in supply and distribution, and operating expenditure optimisation.”

In 2018, Retail Business continued to enhance its customer experience via aggressive asset refresh, transforming the ambiance of 300 PETRONAS stations and 100 Kedai Mesra nationwide., as well as opening more than 10 new stations. Its non-fuel business recorded a 40 percent growth on food sales. Via its targeted marketing campaign, Mesra Bonanza, coupled with the best-in-industry loyalty programme, the business has successfully increased its Kad Mesra active users by 15 percent and acquired 17percent more new members.

Despite a tougher cost environment, the Commercial Business further solidified its leadership position as a solution partner through a robust marketing strategy and focusing on customer-centricity, with differentiated offerings. This in turn strengthened its relationships with its customers, enabling the business to secure new contracts from airlines.

The LPG Business continued to be the market leader and further expanded its sales channels at selected PETRONAS stations to ensure convenience and product availability. It also commenced the sale of 14kg cylinders for the commercial market segment.

Its Lubricant Business managed to increase its brand presence, recording significant volume increment in the highstreet and OEM segments. The business also successfully secured a new long-term contract with the main rail operator in Peninsular Malaysia to supply locomotive engine oil.

“While we are cautious about the continued volatility of oil prices, we are committed to fuelling the business and accelerating growth by continuing to be customer-obsessed. This customer-first mindset has pushed us to move like never before and will continue to guide us as we go beyond the norm to deliver a seamless and frictionless customer experience,” added Syed Zainal.

In line with this, PDB launched its new fuel early this year, the PETRONAS Primax 95 with Pro-Drive, which has been developed to meet current driving needs and engine requirements. Based on drivers’ testimonials, the new fuel has indeed proven to deliver a smoother, more responsive and efficient drive.

On the digital forefront, the Company also introduced Setel, South East Asia’s first e-payment app of its kind, at the PETRONAS stations. Integrated directly to the fuel pump, Setel allows customers to purchase fuel directly from the comfort of their vehicles. At the end of 2018, Setel has been made available at close to 100 PETRONAS stations in the Klang Valley.

Over and above this, PDB will also continue to leverage on its network of partners, existing and new, to further expand the offerings for its non-fuel business, while enhancing customer experience.

“We have laid a strong foundation for the next phase of growth, and we are optimistic that we will be able to see the return of our investments from this year onwards,” Syed Zainal concluded.
 

The Hong Leong Group has announced the launch of its innovation exchange, the HLX, which aspires to grow the Malaysian tech start-up ecosystem with Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) as one of its strategic partners at Menara HLA in Kuala Lumpur.

The HLX will be a one-stop facility which converges the corporate and start-up communities under one roof to accelerate innovation and boost the Malaysian start-up ecosystem. This 250,000sq ft exchange located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur will feature a start-up zone with co-working spaces, various event facilities including an auditorium, onsite Makers Lab, restaurants, and a gym.

This innovation incubator will be the focal point for collaborators vital to the growth of the ecosystem such as Venture Capitalists (VCs), mentoring and technology partners, tech start-ups/scaleups, and corporations.

HLX is positioned to focus on the innovation of high technology with an initial focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI)/High Performance Computing (HPC), fintech, and manufacturing tech.

Applauding the launch, Datuk Edmund Kong, Group Managing Director of GuocoLand Malaysia said, “Building on the foundation of our strong entrepreneurial roots, the Hong Leong Group has always focused on nurturing innovation. The creation of HLX is a step in this direction which stems from our commitment to hone the potential of the start-up ecosystem in Malaysia so that it reaps rewards for the economy and society at large. Our strong expertise and in-depth knowledge of the various industries will surely be beneficial to the start-ups that become part of HLX.”

“With HLX, we are bringing together the corporates and start-ups in a unique two-way exchange to give further impetus Malaysia’s economy. On one hand, the start-ups will gain access to a complete innovation ecosystem that will accelerate their transformation, enable innovation and help them scale-up on the value chain, while the corporates will get to engage with start-ups in a more meaningful and sustainable manner,” said Mohd Reezan Mohd Fadzil, General Manager of HLX.

He mentioned that tech start-ups had great ideas and talent while corporations had the avenue where innovative technology can be deployed.

“That is where HLX comes in, by identifying the gaps and connecting the right match of services offered by key partners.”

This project is also a Private-Public Partnership (PPP) with MDEC who is springboarding HLX to be part of the digital economy ecosystem. The objective of this synergy is to accelerate innovation among the start-ups which will help propel the country’s digital transformation efforts in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, infrastructure, and services.

“To build a thriving entrepreneurial network may be a daunting task and that is why it has to be a collaborative effort,” said Surina Shukri, CEO of MDEC. “This partnership with HLX is a testament to the potential of what a PPP looks like and can one day achieve”.

On the talent front, the HLX Academy will be the exchange where capacity building takes place with future talents through training, mentoring and industry placements. This learning institution is partnering with technical experts like CXS, BAC Twistcode, and more, to lead certification and talent upskilling programmes. The HLX Academy strives to build a pipeline of industry-ready innovators and creators, at the same time, matching their skillsets to key partners from corporations and the government.

Also present at the launch of the HLX innovation exchange was Minister of Communications and Multimedia YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo who witnessed the exchange of six Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) between HLX and tech and talent partners: Twistcode Technologies, Islamic Fintech Hub, Ficus Venture Capital & Helios Orion, BAC Education, 1337 Ventures and CXS.

Another key component of the integrated offering by HLX is the proposed co-living space that will exist within Menara HLA. HLX is exploring collaboration with designers AltSpace to design this space for comfort befitting to the innovative and collaborative persona that embodies the environment. This co-living facility will be available for HLX residents.

The other noteworthy partnership that reinforces HLX’s aspiration to be the convergence between corporate and start-ups is the one with FutureLabs Ventures. In the effort to enhance the innovation process on the corporate front, HLX will draw on FutureLabs’ strength and experience in working with Fortune 500 organizations to co-create multi-industry ecosystem ventures that harness value from big data and advanced analytics that help develop businesses in terms of technology and talent.

The HLX hub will be developed in phases and is expected to achieve full operational readiness by end 2020. Phase 1 of the project will include development of the digital campus, co-working and co-living spaces, venture capital hub, and curated offices which be ready by 31 December 2019, while Phase 2 covers the exhibition space, innovation lab, media lab, and Founder’s bar and will be fully operational by 31 December 2020.

The rise in digital banking has proved to be a double edged sword for financial institutions as there is a great focus from cyber criminals targetting this platform to steal consumers’ financial information.

While the benefits and opportunities presented by digital financial services are clear and proven, according to KPMG’s Consumer Loss Barometer –The economics of trust report, 49 percent of consumers from Malaysia have had their financial information compromised, higher than the global average of 37 percent. The study further revealed that 69 percent consumers globally reporting concerns about their technology being compromised. Respondents in Malaysia are particularly concerned about their apps (95 percent), Wi-Fi (82 percent) and cloud (77 percent)  being compromised.

KPMG’s study delved deeper into the economics of trust within the Financial Services sector, and found that 40 percent of consumers in Malaysia believe their financial institutions should have full or joint responsibility for ensuring that mobile devices used for mobile banking are secured.

Adrian Lee, Head of Financial Services at KPMG in Malaysia, urge financial institutions to show that they take the security of their customer’s information seriously, both in their customers’ broader security needs and in their interactions with them.

“Whether or not financial institutions regard it as their responsibility, it is something that they need to be very cognisant about or they run the risk of losing their customers’ trust, which is a priceless commodity. The shift towards digital banking is happening at great speed. A key gateway that promotes this trend is mobile devices because they are seen as a convenient way to cater to potential customers within the unbanked population. Financial institutions that are able to ensure trust will drive customer loyalty and naturally become the preferred choice in this digital age,” says Adrian.

In evince of the proliferation of digital banking trends in Malaysia, Bank Negara had reported that the penetration rate of internet banking and mobile banking subscribers stood at 91.9 percent and 33 percent respectively in February 2019.

Though cash is still Malaysia’s preferred mode of payment, the rise in digital payments demonstrate positive upward trends. Based on the transaction value data recorded for 2018 by Bank Negara Malaysia, internet banking transactions were valued at RM7.6 trillion, mobile banking at RM100.1 billion and e-money at RM11 billion.

Interestingly, KPMG’s study found that 96.8 percent of respondents globally would be willing to remain with their financial services provider if their financial information had been breached, provided the organization took swift and effective measures to address their concerns. This also shows that consumers accept the reality that cyberattacks cannot be completely avoided.

According to Adrian, this sentiment reveals that consumers still trust their financial institutions to be an authoritative figure. It would behove financial institutions well to enhance consumer trust by being more transparent about the data they collect, as well as to proactively demonstrate measures that are put in place to protect the consumers’ infomation.

“Consumers are constantly revising upward their expectations on how organizations deliver digital products and services, and expect security as integral to their experience. Hence, financial institutions cannot afford to be complacent and take their customers trust for granted. To do so would invite the inevitable result of reputational damage and financial loss. Maintaining trust in the digital age is becoming a differentiator for those able to act and demonstrate an understanding of their consumer’s concern,” concludes Adrian.

From now until June 2019, HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad is hosting the first ever HSBC Openlab Innovation Challenge to attract new talents, startups, designers, digital innovators and developers from all industries with innovative digital ideas to solve real-life retail banking challenges.

Be it re-thinking existing banking propositions by building a disruptive digital banking alternative, or re-designing banking processes by leveraging rich data, better UI/UX, and real time risk assessment, or even re-inventing customer engagement through the digitisation of customer service – participants of the HSBC Openlab Innovation Challenge 2019 are given the opportunity to work on their ideas using an openlab sandbox to create a working prototype of their solution.

Different from a traditional Hackathon model, the HSBC Openlab Innovation Challenge 2019 allows participants to work on their solutions from the comfort of their own home/ office and provides them with access to a live sandbox openlab that has 200 Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), software development kit, as well as synthetic data to help them build their prototype.

Commenting on this, Tara Latini, Country Head, Retail Banking and Wealth Management, HSBC Malaysia said, “Malaysia is the first market where HSBC launches such a challenge and this clearly demonstrates the Bank’s commitment to the nation and its talented community of digital innovators. As a global organisation which operates in 66 countries and territories, we at HSBC understand that digitisation is changing financial services at a rapid pace. We see that many of the current banking products, services and processes can be made better and faster via digitisation, better UI/UX and creative use of data. Therefore, through the HSBC Openlab Innovation Challenge, we aim to revolutionise the way financial products and services are designed and delivered to our valued customers.”

Teams stand to win attractive cash prizes for the best digital innovations: the first prize is RM8000, the second prize is RM6000 and the third is RM4000. For registration and more details, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/openlab-hsbc-tickets-60266606041?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete. The team registration closes on 5 May 2019. Shortlisted teams will be notified accordingly.

Malaysians are optimistic about having a more inclusive workforce according to PERSOLKELLY’s latest Asia Pacific (APAC) First Quarter Workforce Insights report.

The report finds that 98 percent of Malaysia respondents believe there are advantages in working with colleagues over the age of 55. In the survey, 88 percent also agree to benefits in working with employees with disabilities or special needs. Both these numbers are higher than the APAC workforce average.

Themed “Challenging perceptions of an inclusive workforce”, the report indicates to 70 percent of Malaysian respondents who agree that senior workers should be allowed to work past their retirement age, as long as they are able to.

This is driven by a belief that colleagues over the age of 55 years old are more experienced in their respective field and are more knowledgeable about the industry and the day to day work. Furthermore, one in two respondents also suggest that these senior workers make good mentors, while 43 percent believe that they are better at resolving conflicts and handling adversity.

Applauding the Malaysian inclusive approach, Brian Sim, Managing Director and Country Head, Malaysia at Kelly Services said “As Malaysia becomes more developed and as our population grows, the number of workers above the age of 55 years also increases in tandem. Many who belong to this age group under- appreciate the value that they can bring to their workplace. Our findings reinforce this idea that age is not a barrier to performance and that Malaysians are open to working with older colleagues.”

Another key finding is that half of Malaysia respondents believe that employees with disabilities or special needs can provide an additional perspective to business challenges. In fact, one in three Malaysia respondents perceive them to being more loyal to the company and have a more responsible attitude.

On the key drivers to employing people with disabilities or special needs, 54 percent indicated that having the right facilities in place such as workplaces designed to accommodate the needs of those with disabilities or special needs. The same respondents also indicated that support programs from the government will encourage the hiring of people with disabilities or special needs.

“The Malaysian disabled and special needs communities have long faced challenges in the employment landscape,” adds Sim.

“Despite some of the concerns that employers might have, the value and abilities that these individuals can bring to a business should not be underestimated.”

Among the main concerns highlighted by Malaysia respondents in the report include health issues (51 percent) and the number of adjustments needed to accommodate an employee with disabilities or special needs.

In terms of performance and fitting into the company, only 27 percent believe that they will underperform and three percent believe that they will not be able to fit in. Similarly, 60 percent of Malaysian respondents are concerned about health issues among workers who are bove 55 years old.

Half of the respondents also believe that these workers tend to be more stubborn and closed-minded than younger workers. A mere five percent are concerned about the cost of hiring senior workers and 25 percent indicated concerns regarding the rate at which senior workers can learn new tasks or skills.

The report also looked into how Malaysians perceive mothers returning to work. Only 38  percent of the respondents feels that mothers who return to work are less available. This is two percent short of the APAC average and is among the lowest among all the countries surveyed, suggesting that most Malaysians are optimistic about mothers returning to work.

PERSOLKELLY’s APAC Workforce Insights survey featured responses from more than 7,000 hiring managers and employees from 12 countries in APAC and across a wide range of industries.

AmInvest was awarded as the Best Domestic Fixed Income Fund Manager 2018 at the Employees Provident Fund’s External Fund Managers Annual Awards 2019 (“EPF Awards”) held recently.¹

The EPF Awards recognises “the outstanding performance by external fund managers in managing EPF’s investment portfolio”.

Commenting on the win, Goh Wee Peng, Chief Executive Officer of AmInvest said, “Our team’s foresight and ability to apply a defensive investment strategy, coupled with our robust investment processes in place was instrumental in helping to cushion the impact to the investment portfolio during the volatile market conditions of 2018. It is an honour and privilege to be recognised by EPF as the top performing external portfolio manager in this category as it is an affirmation of the strength of our fixed income team. It is also a reflection of our in-house fixed income investment expertise and capabilities built over the past 38 years.”

As at March 2019, AmInvest’s total Assets Under Management (“AUM”) stood at an all-time high of approximately RM40.5 billion, out of which 82 percent of its AUM comprised fixed income investments.

“Looking ahead, we will continue assisting our clients to navigate the markets towards achieving their investment goals,” Goh added.

The first quarter of this year has also seen AmInvest receiving other recognitions for fund performance. At the recent Morningstar Awards 2019 Malaysia (“Morningstar Awards”), AmInvest made a clean sweep of both awards in the fixed income category.

AmDynamic Bond was named the Best Malaysia Bond Fund, and AmBon Islam won the Best Malaysia Bond (Syariah) Fund Award.

Morningstar recognises “funds that delivered the greatest outperformance, on a risk-adjusted basis, in 2018, and over the long term. The awards methodology emphasises the one-year period, but funds must also have delivered strong three-year returns after adjusting for risk within the awards peer group in order to obtain the award”.

These award-winning funds are also unit trust funds eligible under the EPF Member’s Investment Scheme (“EPF MIS”). EPF MIS allows EPF members to transfer a portion of their savings from their Account 1 for investments through appointed fund management institutions as an option to enhance their retirement savings. — Bernama

HP Malaysia has appointed Fayza Mohamed Amin as the new Managing Director effective 1st November 2018. She is replacing HP Malaysia’s Interim Managing Director Jacob-T Jacob.

With over 20 years in the corporate world, Fayza brings diverse local and global knowledge from the tech industry to HP Malaysia. Some of her achievements include being part of the pioneer team that built the Internet in Malaysia as well as leading the development of the national public cloud.

According to Fayza, while maintaining its position as a top laptop brand, HP’s next focus would be assisting Small and Medium Business in embracing digital transformation towards industry 4.0.

“For HP Malaysia, it’s not just about buying from local SMBs, but also providing them with the global expertise, skillsets and standards they need to drive a sustainable business success in the long term.”

She aims to  inject the capabilities of next-generation additive manufacturing to drive the industry 4.0 revolution, through partnerships with the technology ecosystem of the country.

“We want to help close the gap of the future. Working with industry stakeholders and partners to ensure our young future Malaysian talents are equipped with the right skillsets. We are a global brand with a local soul. We want to catalyse the creators of tomorrow,” added Fayza.

A self-professed tech geek, Fayza is passionate about artificial intelligence and the potential of machine learning in accelerating efficiencies in tandem with human-derived insights.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Brock University in Canada.

Local Industrial Automation Specialist, Galactic Advance Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd, today launched its landmark technology, GENiE Smart Factory Solution, with an aim to increase the adoption of smart manufacturing practices among industrial players in Malaysia and the South East Asia (SEA) region.

GENiE Smart Factory was launched by YB Dr. Ong Kian Ming, Deputy Minister of Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).

The CEO of Galactic Advance Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd, Sakhtivel Narayanasamy, shared his optimism on Malaysia’s readiness for automation during the launch as, “We are optimistic about MITI’s commitment and drive towards the realisation of ‘Industry 4WRD’, the Malaysian Government’s initiative to drive Industry 4.0 adoption that was launched in October 2018 by our honourable Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

“There has been much concept talk about Industry 4.0 and its power to revolutionise but we believe these concepts can be converted into applicable solutions like the GENiE Smart Factory launched recently that enables an innovative shift in manufacturing operations for the next 3 years.”

Quantum Computing Sdn Bhd has been appointed as the marketing and promotion office of GENiE Smart Factory and aims to support up to 150 SMEs in their Industry 4.0 journey in 2019. The company is optimistic and expects to sign on 300 industry players across SEA as users of GENiE yearly starting 2020.

It is also confident that through the efforts of MITI and other government related agencies, the adoption of smart manufacturing processes will grow exponentially especially in light of global market demands.

“Malaysian manufacturers need to embrace technology and be competitive worldwide. We can no longer be dependent on labour intensive manufacturing practices. It is essential for manufacturers especially SMEs to leverage on cyber-physical systems and cloud based data to make informed business decision in order to increase productivity,” added Sakthivel.

“Malaysia has the innovative and implementation capabilities to make automation possible and with an investment tag which is favourable to our economy. I am happy to launch GENiE Smart Factory and we hope to work with Galactic Advance Engineering, which has more than 20 years of industrial automation project experience, to support Malaysia manufacturers, in taking steps towards being Industry 4.0 compliant,”  Ong shared during his launch address.

GENiE Smart Factory is a cloud based process intelligence solution that aims to empower better decision making on what’s happening in the production floor. GENiE obtains real process values and parameters of production operations. It comes from data acquisition, aggregating, analysing and sharing. This data is extrapolated and translated into a user-friendly dashboard interface to allow continuous tracking of processes or machinery.

GENiE is designed to address the most common pain points of manufacturers including under utilisation of machinery, production wastage, high usage of utility/energy, unpredictable downtime risks, lack of reliable operational data for business decisions and shortages in skilled labour and the dependence on them that adds to the rising cost of labour.

“It is a solution that pays for itself. It is a scalable investment to improve operations and more importantly to reduce downtime and financial losses from production interruptions. The savings from energy utilisation, reduction of wastage and better yield from the machines can be seen within months.

“In addition, manufacturers can leap into Industry 4.0 with GENiE regardless of the current status of Industry 1.0, 2.0 or 3.0 Manufacturers can fix in sensors that deliver data to the cloud via IIOT gateway. Best of all, GENiE works best with almost all types and brands of machines including some legacy systems.”

Galactic Advance Engineering is of the opinion that SMEs are slow in adopting Industry 4.0 mainly due to uncertainty and cost.

“Malaysian SMEs need more successful case studies to be more confident and willing to invest in Industry 4.0,” concluded Sakthivel.

Quantum Computing, the marketing and promotion office of GENiE Smart Factory, has committed to offer 5 basic and 5 advance package SME Smart Factory Solution worth RM 450,000.00 to 10 SMEs who are committed to adopting Industry 4.0.

SMEs will be selected with the assistance of MITI based on the results of the Industry4wrd Readiness Assessment and companies that qualified for DISF incentives through the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA).  Application can be made via Genie Smart Factory’s website, www.geniesmartfactory.com.

Medical Travel Quality Alliance (MTQUA) has once again named Prince Court Medical Centre (PCMC) as one of the world’s best hospitals for medical tourism.

In a statement, PCMC Chief Executive Officer Chong Yee Mun said the hospital has been in the top 10 list since 2013.

MTQUA made the announcement in conjunction with the Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB) show, the world’s largest travel trade marketplace.

The prestigious list also included Clemenceau Medical Center in Beirut, Lebanon; Anadolu Medical Center in Istanbul, Turkey; and Samitivej Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand.

PCMC Chief Executive Officer Chong Yee Mun said: “PCMC has been in the top 10 list since 2013 and this recognition from MTQUA makes us even more determined to maintain and improve the level of high service and quality that we provide to our customers. Their wellbeing has always been our utmost priority and the team in PCMC is committed and dedicated to do just that. Being listed in the top 10 with these top international hospitals is an honour and serves as a continued reminder of our responsibilities and service to our patients and customers whoever they are.”

The hospitals on the World’s Best Hospitals list are evaluated closely by the MTQUA team using stringent qualification guidelines over a period of three days, before hospitals are then ranked based on the quality of medical treatment and non-clinical factors that play a role in outcomes and quality of care. These include:

• Integrated care management
• Clear, private, secure communications
• Clear, transparent prices and fees, outcomes, operations
• Fair value
• Verified agents and network partners
• Dedicated leadership
• Marketing and operations consistent with healthcare ethics and values
• Patient security and safety
• Cultural support services
• Social and religious sensitivity

PCMC was awarded this recognition as it has since long been a leading premier hospital for Malaysians, expatriates, and international patients – renowned for its outstanding service levels and clinical achievements.

Designed with patients’ safety, comfort, and care in mind – this 270-bedded full tertiary care private hospital provides single-bed rooms within 12-bedded wards and is on the medical forefront when it comes to the latest technology advancements and breakthroughs.

President of MTQUA Julie Munro said: “Medical tourists are paying more attention to quality and international standards in choosing a country and a hospital, yet affordability continues to be an important factor.”

She also added that today, medical tourists pour in from all countries and travel the world in search of the best medical attention they can afford.

United Overseas Bank Malaysia Bhd (UOB Malaysia) and Skim Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Hokkien Associations Malaysia to enable small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access collateral-free business loans. The MoU affirms UOB Malaysia’s commitment to help SMEs seize new opportunities, meet their working capital needs and progress through different stages of growth.

Under the MoU, UOB Malaysia will extend financial advice and the SJPP-UOB BizMoney solution, a government-guaranteed lending facility, to more than three million SMEs whose owners are affiliated with the Federation. Through the SJPP-UOB BizMoney solution, SMEs can obtain collateral-free loans of up to RM1 million. SJPP will guarantee up to 70 per cent of the loan through its Working Capital Guarantee and Automation Process Guarantee Schemes.

Raymond Chui, Executive Director and Country Head of Business Banking, UOB Malaysia said the tripartite MoU affirmed the Bank’s commitment to support the development and progress of Malaysia’s SMEs and to provide them with flexible financing solutions to help meet their unique needs and challenges.

“As a bank with an established track record in serving Malaysia’s SMEs, we know first-hand that businesses in the early stages of growth can sometimes find it difficult to secure bank lending to meet their additional working capital needs. This is because they may not be in a position to present sufficient collateral to secure loan facilities with banks given they are still in the early stages of growth. Through this tripartite MoU with the Federation of Hokkien Associations Malaysia and SJPP, we can support more SMEs across the country by offering them the flexibility of accessing additional working SMEs across the country by offering them the flexibility of accessing additional working capital without the need for collateral. This will help them progress to the next stage of growth.”

As part of the MoU, UOB Malaysia and SJPP have embarked on a nine-month roadshow to help raise awareness of the Bank’s small business solutions and SJPP’s government–guaranteed lending schemes. The roadshow, which will be conducted across all 14 states in Malaysia, will run until the end of the year.

Tan Sri Lim Hock San, President of the Federation of Hokkien Associations Malaysia, said, “We are pleased to partner UOB Malaysia and commend the commitment they have shown in promoting the financing schemes guaranteed by SJPP. SMEs are an integral part of Malaysia’s economic transformation process and through this partnership we can ensure that our small business members get the right access to financing.”

In recognition of UOB Malaysia’s efforts to support SMEs with unsecured lending facilities, SJPP presented the Bank with a Special Appreciation Award in February 2019. UOB Malaysia was also recognised by SJPP as one of the top five best performing banks in Malaysia for its commitment and active participation in promoting SJPP’s government-guaranteed financing schemes.

To find out more about SJPP-UOB BizMoney, log onto www.uob.com.my or visit the nearest UOB Malaysia branches nationwide.

According to Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) year-on-year report, cyber threats including local infections and malware hosting detected in Malaysia have significantly dropped between 2017 and 2018. However, web threats or malware online remains higher in terms of number of detections last year.

Web Threats

Source: KSN

Web Threats or online threats ~ malware programs that can target users when using the Internet.  A browser based threats include a range of malicious software programs designed to infect victims’ computers.

Local Threats

Source: KSN

Local Threats ~ local infection, threats that have penetrated computer systems by infecting files or removable media or initially got on the computer in an encrypted format.

Malware Hosting

Source: KSN

Malware Hosting ~ malware hosted on the hardware or websites in Malaysia.

KSN is a complex distributed infrastructure dedicated to intelligent processing cybersecurity related data streams from millions of voluntary participants around the world. By analyzing these data streams automatically in the cloud, the system ensures the fastest reaction times to new and yet unknown cyberthreat and the maintenance of the highest levels of protection for every partner and customers of Kasperksy Lab.

KSN also employs Kaspersky lab’s HuMachine principle ~ both Kaspersky Lab expert knowledge and next-generation machine learning capabilities are merged, allowing Kaspersky Lab to spot patterns, changes and new threats in the cyber landscape with accuracy and skill.

“Internet can be described as a double-edged sword. It is an integral part of people’s lives but is also a source of growing risks. For Malaysia, we detected 42 million web threats, 67 million local threats, and 1.6million malware hosting last year. While there is a decline in detected local threats and malicious hosting, infections online are still on the rise. As we become more dependent with the perks of World Wide Web, may we become more aware with its harms and dangers as well,” says Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager of Southeast Asia of Kaspersky Lab.

KSN’s working mechanism includes several key processes such as the continuous, geographically distributed monitoring of real-life threats on users’ devices, analysis of the data received in order to determine new threats, and the delivery of relevant intelligence and countermeasures to protected customers.

The information about infection attempts is analysed using the company’s powerful in-house expertise and technological resources, both automated and human. It is at the heart of Kaspersky Lab’s in depth analysis and timely studies on the latest dangers and threats online.

“Our expert has since warned the public on a large-scale SIM swap fraud where the fraud centres around exploiting a mobile phone operator’s ability to seamlessly port a telephone number to a new SIM – a standard practice normally used when a customer has lost or had the phone stolen.  Attacks like these are now widespread, with cyber criminals using them not only to steal credentials and capture one-time password (OTP) sent via SMS, but also to cause financial damages to victims,” Yeo added.

In order to be secured against the evolving threats online, Kaspersky Lab security experts advise the following basic but important steps:

• Carefully check the link before visiting a site, especially for misspelling or other irregularities, even if you think it’s a site you’ve visited regularly before.
• Enter your username and password only over a secure connection. Avoid logging in to online banks and similar services via public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be aware that URLs that begin with the “https” may not always be secure.
• Don’t trust emails from unknown senders until you can verify the authenticity their origins.
• Always run a system with a quality, up-to-date anti-malware program such as Kaspersky Internet Security. Our advanced solution will help you solve most of problems automatically and alert you if something went wrong.

AmBank was presented with the Top Financial Institution (FI) Partner Award for Commercial category and Top FI Award for the Bumiputera category at CGC SME Awards ceremony 2018 which was held in Kuala Lumpur recently.

Dato’ Sulaiman Mohd Tahir, Group Chief Executive Officer, AmBank Group received the awards from YB Lim Guan Eng, Minister of Finance, Malaysia.

The Top FI Partner Award recognises the commitment demonstrated by FIs and Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) in providing SMEs with access to financing, delivering a suite of diversified products and services while the Top FI Award for the Bumiputera category recognises FIs which have contributed and participated actively in Bumiputera financing under CGC’s guarantee schemes.

“We are truly humbled to receive these awards from CGC. AmBank would like to express our appreciation to CGC for partnering with us to support the financial needs of SMEs, by providing relevant financial solutions to them. Credit for the awards go to our staff and is a testament to their effort and commitment,” said Sulaiman.

The ceremony was also attended by Voon Seng Chuan, Chairman, AmBank (M) Berhad, Christopher Yap, Managing Director, Business Banking, AmBank Group, David Yeoh, Head, Retail Distribution, AmBank (M) Berhad along with the senior management of AmBank Group and AmBank Retail SME team.

The plantation sector as a major economic contributor to the country, faces a dire need for quality and skilled local human resource. One way to fulfil this shortage is by roping in rural youths who are likely to be exposed to this agriculture activity.

Realising this, the Malaysian Estate Owners Association (MEOA) has partnered with the Monfort Youth Training Centre (MYTC) to introduce a new skill training programme with a pilot Oil Palm Plantation Conductorship course.

The initiative, carried out as MEOA’s social responsibility contribution to human resource development in the plantation sector, will target underprivileged youths.

“We hope to encourage our local youths to join the plantation sector not only as one way to reduce dependency on foreign workers but also to give a chance to a better future for the underprivileged by equipping them for jobs,” said MEOA president Jeffery Ong.

“The course aims to generate skilled workforce who can contribute to the pursuit and improvement of best practices in the Malaysian oil palm industry. In this context, the underprivileged youths should not be left out.

“In addition to the start-up contribution, MEOA members will also be visiting and providing the trainees with the know-how on best practices in plantation supervision. Other companies, including IJM Plantations Berhad and Eurostar Tractors will also be rendering leadership and local training support,” added Ong.

During MEOA’s 74^th annual dinner on April 15^th, MYTC Board of Governors Chairman Tan Sri Bernard G. Dompok received mock cheques totalling RM215, 000 for the training programme, witnessed by Minister of Primary Industries, YB Puan Teresa Kok.

A cheque for RM 185,000.00 was presented by Mr. Joseph Tek on behalf MEOA and friends, while Mr. Sylvester Fong who represented Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association (SOPPOA) presented a cheque for RM30, 000.

The two-year course which covers full training and boarding will be provided free. The course covers both the knowledge and practical skills needed in plantation supervision.

In addition, both basic motor vehicle mechanics and shielded metal arc welding will also be incorporated. To fortify the coursework, the trainees will also undergo fieldwork training as well as industry practical attachment training. The trainees will also be nurtured in basic communication in English language, arithmetic and computer knowledge.

Application is open to Malaysians between 18 and 20 years old with priority given to orphans, the poor and those from large families in the rural and interiors areas. SPM leavers, as well as youths who did not complete their formal primary and secondary school education are also encouraged to apply.

The pilot course will start in July 2019 at MYTC’s campus in Kinarut, Sabah. Interested applicants can apply to – MYTC–MEOA Conductorship Training Programme, Montfort Youth Training Centre, Jalan Lama Penampang- Papar, Kinarut, 88200 Kota Kinabalu or P.O. Box 612, 89507, Penampang, Sabah, Malaysia, or email at [email protected]. — Bernama

RHB Bank Berhad recently bagged the top title “Excellence in SME Banking” in Asia for its efforts in customer experience, segmentation and innovative products and services targeted at SMEs, at the 10^th Annual Retail Banker International Asia Trailblazer Awards 2019.

The award which was held in Singapore also saw RHB being named runner-up for the “Digital Banking Initiative” Award.

The RBI Trailblazer award is one of the industry’s most prestigious, celebrating the best and most innovative institutions and projects; and highlighting noteworthy initiatives that have established a strong foothold in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Muslim travel market is one of the fastest growing segments. Malaysia along with neighbouring Indonesia and China, together are set to contribute 17 percent of the total global Muslim outbound spend by the year 2020.

As such, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced their collaboration with Malaysian Online Travel Agency (OTA) Tripfez, as part of their efforts to drive more engagement with Muslim travellers.

The partnership will see Tripfez promote Hong Kong through a series of marketing initiatives that encourage visitors to discover Hong Kong like a local while enjoying delicious Halal cuisine, convenient prayer facilities and other Muslim-friendly amenities.

Following the Muslim Travel Seminar held early this year for Hong Kong’s tourism and hospitality industry to better understand the needs of a typical Muslim traveller, the Tripfez partnership aims to increase Hong Kong’s visibility among Muslim travellers as a destination that is well equipped to cater to their religious and lifestyle needs.

In their collaboration Tripfez will also include Hong Kong’s hotels and restaurants on their Salam Standard platform. Introduced in 2015, Salam Standard assigns an establishment a Gold standard if they meet a list of 6 amenities for Muslim guests, and Silver and Bronze for those with fewer. These amenities include restaurants serving halal food, having no alcohol in mini-bar and giving Qibla direction and prayer mat in rooms.

The platform will also promote and showcase the advancements of HKTB’s marketing efforts in promoting Muslim travel to Hong Kong.

Tripfez helps Muslim travellers make observant choices and book stays that are catered to both their religious and personal needs. Not only does Tripfez function as a platform to connect mindful Muslim travellers with Muslim-friendly hotels, but also provides hotels the opportunity to be seen by millions of Muslim travellers looking for accommodation that suits their lifestyle. The platform also looks to increase sales to Hong Kong through Tripfez’s value proposition.

Ummi Haslinda Mohd Rosli, General Manager, Tripfez Travel Sdn Bhd said, “Partnering with Hong Kong Tourism Board allows us to build greater awareness about Hong Kong’s Muslim travel offerings and create more awareness of Muslim-friendly activities in Hong Kong. As a leading online resource of Muslim friendly facilities for each of our travel destination, Tripfez provides a reliable source of information to Muslim millennials without compromising their beliefs”.

This partnership with Tripfez will further improve Hong Kong’s position as the preferred travel destination as a city well-equipped to cater to the Muslim travellers’ needs.

Raymond Chan, Regional Director, South-East Asia of HKTB said, “We are thrilled to be working with Tripfez to attract Muslim millennials and elevate Hong Kong’s position as a Muslim friendly destination. As we work to meet the needs of Muslim travellers, we are confident that this partnership will increase awareness of the variety and quality of Halal travel offerings in the city, providing visitors with diverse options to suit every budget and style”.

HKTB are also working with partners to enhance Muslims travellers’ experience.