Merchantrade Asia Sdn. Bhd. has achieved a major milestone with its official recognition as an Approved Issuer of a Designated Payment Instrument (DPI) for the state of Sabah. This approval, granted under the Labour Ordinance of Sabah by the Minister of Human Resources, builds on Merchantrade’s existing authorization in Peninsular Malaysia since August 2024 and is effective from 1 December 2025. The new mandate enables employers in Sabah to utilize Merchantrade’s digital solutions, including its payroll portal and Merchantrade Money e-wallet, to manage wage payments for foreign employees in full compliance with Malaysian labour laws. Given Sabah’s vast geography of 7.4 million hectares and the reliance on cash for payroll in plantation-heavy areas, this digital solution addresses both logistical and security challenges, allowing employees to receive wages directly, access cash via VISA-enabled ATMs, and conduct everyday transactions safely. Founder and Managing Director Ramasamy K. Veeran highlighted that this authorization strengthens Merchantrade’s position as a leader in the digital wage ecosystem, providing inclusive, seamless solutions supported by a network of physical touchpoints across Sabah. Beyond payroll, the Merchantrade Money e-wallet offers a comprehensive suite of services, including remittances, mobile top-ups, micro-insurance, and QR payments, catering to the unbanked and migrant worker communities, while promoting transparency, efficiency, and financial inclusion in wage disbursement and social security contributions.
Author: Farihin Azlan
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PKS DIGALAKKAN Laksana EWA Bantu Pekerja Kurangkan Beban Hidup, Setlary Raih Pelaburan RM100 Juta
Perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) di seluruh negara digalakkan untuk melaksanakan konsep Earned Wage Access (EWA) atau Akses Gaji Diperoleh sebagai langkah membantu pekerja berpendapatan rendah menangani peningkatan kos sara hidup. Presiden Persatuan ESG Malaysia, Cheah Kok Hoong, menjelaskan bahawa EWA memberi peluang kepada pekerja untuk mengakses sebahagian gaji yang telah diperoleh sebelum tarikh pembayaran rasmi, sekali gus membantu mereka memenuhi keperluan harian dan mengelakkan tekanan kewangan. Menurutnya, kestabilan kewangan pekerja adalah asas kepada produktiviti dan kesihatan operasi sesebuah organisasi, dan kegagalan majikan membayar gaji tepat pada masanya boleh mencetuskan kitaran tidak sihat yang menjejaskan perniagaan. Beliau turut menegaskan bahawa EWA selari dengan agenda sosial dalam prinsip ESG, khususnya dalam memastikan kesejahteraan dan keselamatan pekerja sentiasa diberi keutamaan.
Dalam perkembangan berkaitan, Setlary — penyedia platform EWA tempatan — mengumumkan pelaburan strategik bernilai RM100 juta daripada Lion X dan Holborn Capital Partners bagi memperkukuh pengembangan mereka ke pasaran Asia serta meningkatkan fungsi kesejahteraan kewangan dalam platform tersebut. Menurut Pengasas Bersama Setlary, Charles Chew, platform itu bukan sahaja memudahkan pekerja mengakses pendapatan mereka lebih awal, tetapi turut menyediakan program kebajikan seperti bantuan barangan keperluan asas, insurans percuma dan sokongan kesejahteraan kewangan bagi golongan B40. Chew menegaskan bahawa misi utama Setlary adalah untuk memastikan “Setiap Hari adalah Hari Gaji Anda”, sambil mengurangkan kebergantungan pekerja kepada pinjaman tidak berlesen dan bertaedah tinggi. Selain itu, Setlary turut menerima sokongan pembiayaan tambahan daripada CapBay, yang menyediakan akses modal alternatif sehingga USD25 juta untuk memperkukuh portfolio pelanggan mereka. Dengan pelaburan besar ini, Setlary dijangka memainkan peranan signifikan dalam membantu syarikat memenuhi komponen sosial dalam mandat ESG, sekali gus memperluas manfaat kewangan inklusif kepada lebih ramai pekerja di seluruh negara.
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SHAFFIQ ERWIN – JANJIR
Shaffiq Erwin, yang lebih dikenali sebagai seorang guru vokal berpengalaman dan penyanyi sejak tahun 2012, kembali mewarnai industri muzik tempatan dengan single terbaharunya berjudul “Janjir”. Selepas beberapa tahun menyepi daripada dunia nyanyian, Shaffiq—atau lebih mesra disapa Apit—kembali mencabar diri melalui pentas program realiti TV3, Famili Duo. Penyertaannya bersama penyanyi terkenal Ara Johari dalam Famili Duo Season 1 pada tahun 2020 bukan sahaja membuka lembaran baharu, malah membawa mereka muncul sebagai juara episod Saudara. Kejayaan itu terus menyemarakkan semangatnya apabila duo tersebut sekali lagi menyerlah dalam Famili Duo Season 2 pada 2023, mara hingga ke peringkat separuh akhir.
Kini, Shaffiq tampil dengan penuh yakin menerusi “Janjir”, sebuah karya yang memperlihatkan keberaniannya bereksperimen dengan genre Rockdut, gabungan unik antara rock dan dangdut. Lagu ini bukan sekadar percubaan muzik baharu, tetapi juga menunjukkan kematangannya dalam berkarya. Di bawah naungan Sevoce Studio dan edaran Universal Music, “Janjir” merupakan ciptaan dan terbitan bersama Rudy Nastia, Aizad Khan serta Shaffiq sendiri. Dengan lirik yang dekat di hati, lagu ini membawa kisah tentang pasangan yang pernah berjanji untuk setia, namun akhirnya salah seorang memungkiri janji dan kembali hanya apabila kesusahan melanda.
Muzik video “Janjir” turut memberi impak visual yang segar dengan tema merah jambu dan putih, menampilkan kolaborasi bersama Kunafa Aiwah, Anas Lips Serum dan Heetam Puteh. Sentuhan suntingan oleh Shiha Zikir Empire menambahkan lagi kekuatan visual karya ini. “Janjir” boleh didengari di YouTube dan semua platform digital mulai 12 November 2025. Shaffiq berharap karya terbaharunya ini terus menerima sokongan daripada rakan media dan para pendengar, sekali gus menandakan fasa baharu dalam perjalanan seninya.
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Joe Flizzow Returns to the Hip-Hop Scene with His Powerful New Single “501”
Malaysian hip-hop legend Joe Flizzow makes a powerful and long-awaited comeback with the release of his new single, “501,” a track that marks a bold new chapter in his artistic evolution. Written by Joe Flizzow and produced by celebrated collaborators SonaOne and Gard, “501” showcases the synergy of three influential forces in the local music scene. The single emerges after a period of introspection and creative recalibration for Joe, capturing the maturity, clarity, and self-assuredness he has gained over time. Through sharp lyricism, confident delivery, and sleek modern production, “501” delivers a message rooted in resilience, authenticity, and unwavering belief in one’s identity—hallmarks of Joe’s artistry that continue to resonate across generations. The sonic landscape crafted by SonaOne and Gard blends contemporary textures with Joe’s signature tone, creating a track that feels refreshing while staying true to the essence of his legacy.
Beyond the music, “501” expands into a captivating visual universe through its official music video, which introduces viewers to a dark, tense, and emotionally charged narrative. Filled with shadowy scenes, confrontations, and explosive moments, the video heightens the sense of mystery surrounding the new era Joe is ushering in. Its dramatic “To Be Continued” ending adds a layer of suspense, hinting at a larger storyline waiting to unfold and signaling that this release is only the beginning of something bigger. As Joe Flizzow steps confidently into this next phase, “501” not only reconnects him with long-time fans but also positions him to captivate newer audiences, reaffirming his enduring influence and relevance within the regional hip-hop landscape.
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Paydibs Strengthens Malaysian Merchants by Promoting Digital Inclusion
Across Malaysia, small business owners are increasingly transforming the way they sell, manage, and connect with customers, signaling a broader shift in the nation’s digital economy. From retailers integrating online ordering systems to street food vendors experimenting with digital payments, each small adaptation highlights the growing role of technology in everyday commerce. While Malaysia’s digital infrastructure and innovation are important, the true measure of progress lies in the breadth of participation among small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Recognizing this, Budget 2026 has allocated RM150 million to accelerate SME digital adoption and RM200 million to support innovation commercialization, demonstrating the government’s confidence in small businesses as drivers of digital growth.
Despite consumer enthusiasm for cashless living, many SMEs face challenges such as rising operational costs, limited resources, and competing priorities. A recent Visa study revealed that only one in three SMEs have begun digitalizing their operations, underscoring the need for practical, affordable, and accessible digital tools. This is where digital inclusion becomes critical, enabling small businesses to integrate seamlessly into the digital economy without added complexity or cost. Paydibs, as a Registered Merchant Acquirer under Bank Negara Malaysia, is actively addressing this need through its NEO smart terminal and online platforms. By combining QR payments, card acceptance, and Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) solutions, Paydibs allows merchants to process payments efficiently, access funds quickly, and manage their operations with a unified, cost-effective system.
Digital inclusion extends beyond technology; it’s about accessibility and opportunity. Paydibs’ partnerships, such as with Alipay+, allow local merchants to accept payments from over 15 global e-wallets, opening the door for SMEs to reach international consumers and engage in cross-border trade. Furthermore, real-time transaction data empowers merchants to make informed business decisions, optimize inventory management, improve cash flow, and even qualify for financing. Inclusion, therefore, is both practical and strategic—it transforms digital adoption from an abstract goal into an everyday reality for businesses across Malaysia.
As the nation aims to build a high-value digital economy, collaboration between regulators, financial institutions, and technology providers becomes essential to ensure participation is inclusive, secure, and sustainable. Digitalization is no longer just a matter of adoption; it is a question of equity. From night market stalls to large retail chains, every merchant must feel equipped to compete in the digital space. By making inclusion the foundation of Malaysia’s cashless future, the country can create a connected, resilient, and widely owned digital economy. Paydibs continues to empower Malaysian businesses on this journey, offering solutions that make digital participation accessible and impactful for all.
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Majestic Gen Strengthens Presence Through Strategic Land Acquisition in Penang
Majestic Gen has strengthened its footprint in Penang’s Northern Region with the strategic acquisition of a prime freehold site along Jalan Anson in George Town, purchased for RM75 million via Dynamic Gates Sdn Bhd, a special purpose vehicle under Paramount Corporation Bhd’s earlier securitization exercise. The site, comprising three adjoining parcels with a combined gross floor area of approximately 295,508 square feet, is currently occupied by UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College. The purchase price, which exceeds the RM70 million valuation conducted in November 2025, reflects Majestic Gen’s confidence in the long-term potential of both the location and the region.
This acquisition aligns with Majestic Gen’s strategy to expand its presence in high-growth urban centers across the Northern Region, as Penang continues to flourish as a hub for technology, education, culture, and tourism. Jalan Anson offers a unique combination of accessibility, established amenities, and proximity to key commercial, medical, and cultural destinations, positioning Majestic Gen in a highly sought-after enclave that provides a solid foundation for future high-rise developments. Guided by its CHARM values—customer-centric, honest, ambitious, resourceful, and magnificent—the group aims to develop projects that meet community needs while maintaining clarity, purpose, and relevance in planning.
According to Datuk Hoo Kim See, Chief Executive Officer of Majestic Gen, the acquisition represents an important step in the company’s Northern Region expansion, enabling the creation of developments that deliver lasting value and trust to the community. Executive Director Mr Ta Wee Dher added that the Jalan Anson site offers a strategic foundation for the next phase of growth, with the potential to integrate contemporary design while respecting the character of George Town.
This move builds on Majestic Gen’s proven track record in Penang, including the successful launch of Majestic Aman in July 2025, a 5.66-acre freehold residential and commercial development in Taman Sungai Dua Utama with a Gross Development Value of RM66.8 million. Beyond residential and commercial projects, the group also drives industrial growth through its joint venture Suling Hill Development Sdn Bhd, which manages the 176-acre Northern TechValley industrial park with a projected GDV of RM1.3 billion. With the Jalan Anson acquisition, Majestic Gen reinforces its commitment to Penang’s urban development, focusing on thoughtfully planned high-rise projects that combine modern design, urban convenience, and enduring value for communities.
For more information, log on to www.majesticgen.com.my.
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HONOR Magic8 Pro Achieves Strong Pre-order Response, Kicks Off First Sales on 5 December with Exclusive Free Gifts Worth RM2,190
The HONOR Magic8 Pro has received an overwhelming response from Malaysians, surpassing expectations during its pre-order period following last Thursday’s launch. High consumer demand led to a complete sell-out of pre-order stock even before the device’s official first sale, reflecting strong excitement for its advanced camera capabilities, particularly the 200MP Ultra Night Telephoto Camera designed for exceptional low-light photography. Beyond its photography prowess, the HONOR Magic8 Pro is equipped with top-tier hardware and software, including a powerful chipset, premium specifications, and low service costs, making it a highly desirable device for tech enthusiasts.
The first nationwide sale begins on 5 December 2025 at HONOR Experience Stores and official retail partners, with every purchase accompanied by an exclusive gift bundle worth RM2,190. The bundle includes a HONOR CHOICE Earbuds Clip, 365-day Front and Back Crack Protection, 1-Year Extended Warranty, 1-Year Liquid Damage Protection Warranty, and three months of complimentary Google AI Pro Higher Access worth RM294. Buyers will also benefit from an instant RM300 rebate, making the device an attractive investment.
To celebrate the first sale, HONOR will host a grand opening at its new HONOR Experience Store in IOI City Mall Putrajaya on 5 December. Visitors can enjoy performances, interactive activities, and participate in four workshops designed to showcase the Magic8 Pro’s groundbreaking camera features and AI capabilities. A photo booth will allow participants to capture moments using the device, with complimentary printed photos and ice-cream treats provided upon completion of activities. The first 500 customers at the event will also receive an exclusive tote bag for IOI Club members.
Additionally, customers spending RM1,000 or more in a single receipt at the IOI City Mall store between 5 and 14 December will be eligible for a lucky draw with prizes totaling RM55,000. The grand prize is a HONOR Magic8 Pro, alongside HONOR MagicPad 3 and HONOR Pad 10 WiFi tablets, with other prizes including HONOR Watch 2i, HONOR CHOICE Robot Cleaner R2, HONOR luggage, and more.
The HONOR Magic8 Pro is available in three striking colors—Sunrise Gold, Sky Cyan, and Black—and two configurations: 24GB (including 16GB HONOR Turbo RAM) + 512GB storage priced at RM4,599, and 32GB (including 16GB HONOR Turbo RAM) + 1TB storage priced at RM5,199. The device can be purchased at HONOR Experience Stores nationwide, HONOR’s official online store, flagship stores on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and authorized partners such as Harvey Norman, Senheng, SenQ, and Urban Republic. For more information, visit HONOR’s official website at www.honor.com/my.
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Usahawan Asnaf Projek Bangkit Melangkah ke Pentas Akhir dengan Tekad Mencipta Sejarah
Projek Bangkit kini menghampiri kemuncaknya apabila episod terakhir, iaitu episod kelapan, bakal menemui penonton pada Sabtu ini. Sepanjang lapan minggu bersiaran, program realiti ini telah mempamerkan perjalanan transformasi penuh inspirasi para usahawan asnaf yang berdepan cabaran sebenar dunia keusahawanan. Melalui sesi bimbingan intensif bersama mentor berpengalaman, tugasan berasaskan operasi perniagaan, serta penilaian rapi daripada barisan juri profesional, peserta bukan sahaja memperkukuh model perniagaan masing-masing, malah membina keyakinan, ketahanan mental dan hala tuju baharu dalam kehidupan mereka sebagai usahawan.
Pentas akhir tahun ini menampilkan lima peserta terbaik yang telah menyerlah sejak episod pertama—masing-masing membuktikan kemampuan luar biasa, kreativiti, disiplin kerja serta komitmen tinggi dalam mengembangkan perniagaan mereka. Finalis tersebut ialah Nursyahliza Syafrial dengan perniagaan Jijah Satay; Ahmad Imran Mazlan melalui perkhidmatan pembuatan perabot custom Reka Cantum; Nurul Asyiqin Mohamad Ramli yang mengusahakan Dark Premium Cookies di bawah Cocokins Trading; Muhammad Haziq Haime yang membangunkan jenama penjagaan rambut lelaki Broz&Key; serta Juliana Samsudin yang menerajui perniagaan Mini Murtabak Frozen dan Inti Murtabak Frozen melalui MPD Junior Resources. Menariknya, dua daripada mereka—Haziq Haime dan Juliana Samsudin—menerima wildcard daripada ketua juri, Dato’ Rosyam Nor, selepas beliau menilai potensi produk, daya persediaan serta kemampuan sebenar mereka untuk bersaing di peringkat akhir, menjadikan pentas final lebih dramatik dan kompetitif.
Pemenang akhir bakal membawa pulang hadiah yang amat signifikan kepada kelangsungan dan pertumbuhan perniagaan mereka, termasuk geran bernilai RM50,000 daripada Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (MAIWP) serta pakej pengiklanan dan promosi bernilai RM1 juta daripada TV AlHijrah. Gabungan bentuk sokongan ini bukan sahaja membuka laluan luas ke pasaran yang lebih besar, malah membantu membina jenama, mendapatkan pelanggan baharu dan meningkatkan daya saing peserta di peringkat industri.
Episod final akan memperlihatkan cabaran terakhir yang menguji sepenuhnya keupayaan peserta dalam tiga aspek kritikal keusahawanan—kreativiti, strategi pemasaran dan keberkesanan operasi. Cabaran ini dirangka untuk menonjolkan ketekunan, keberanian, daya tahan dan kebijaksanaan mereka dalam mengurus cabaran realiti perniagaan, sekaligus menunjukkan sejauh mana transformasi sebenar yang telah mereka lalui sepanjang program.
Projek Bangkit, diterbitkan melalui kerjasama MAIWP, terus kekal sebagai platform pembangunan komuniti asnaf yang memberi nafas baharu kepada pendekatan realiti TV. Lebih daripada sekadar program hiburan, ia menjadi gelanggang latihan intensif yang menggabungkan ilmu, bimbingan dan pengalaman praktikal dalam membantu peserta membina kapasiti perniagaan, meningkatkan keyakinan diri serta menanam nilai kerja yang kukuh. Final minggu ini dijangka membawa impak emosi dan inspirasi yang mendalam kepada penonton, mengingatkan bahawa peluang boleh mengubah kehidupan apabila digabungkan dengan usaha, kesungguhan dan tunjuk ajar yang tepat.
Penonton dijemput menyaksikan detik bersejarah ini pada Sabtu di TV AlHijrah (Saluran 114 MYTV), atau menonton semula di YouTube TV AlHijrah dan AlHijrah Plus. Episod kemuncak ini bakal menampilkan semangat perjuangan sebenar komuniti asnaf—membuktikan bahawa mereka bukan golongan lemah, tetapi pejuang yang sedang bangkit membina peluang, masa depan dan kejayaan mereka sendiri.
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FELDA–FGV Perkukuh Komitmen Tangani Isu Ladang Terengganu Berlandaskan Undang-Undang
Lembaga Kemajuan Tanah Persekutuan (FELDA) dan FGV Holdings Berhad (FGV) memandang serius notis-notis amaran berkaitan pendudukan secara tidak sah dan isu pencerobohan ladang di Besut, Setiu, Dungun, Hulu Terengganu, Marang dan Kemaman yang dikeluarkan oleh Kerajaan Negeri Terengganu pada 30 November serta 1 dan 2 Disember 2025. Walaupun FELDA menghormati bidang kuasa negeri dalam urus tadbir tanah, tempoh tiga hari yang diberikan untuk mengosongkan kawasan, merobohkan struktur serta memusnahkan tanaman disifatkan terlalu singkat dan tidak selaras dengan keperluan operasi ladang komersial. FELDA menegaskan bahawa ia mempunyai asas kukuh di bawah Akta Tanah (Kawasan Penempatan Berkelompok) 1960 dan Akta Pembangunan Tanah 1956 yang memberikan mandat jelas untuk membangunkan Kawasan Penempatan Berkelompok (GSA). Sehubungan itu, FELDA dan FGV sedang menjalankan semakan menyeluruh terhadap semua dokumen berkaitan, termasuk rekod sejarah, pembayaran premium, hak milik tanah dan syarat pembangunan melalui audit tanah yang komprehensif bagi memastikan ketepatan setiap maklumat sebelum tindakan lanjut diambil. Pembangunan ladang FELDA dan FGV di Terengganu selama ini memainkan peranan penting dalam menjana ekonomi negeri melalui peluang pekerjaan, penyediaan infrastruktur serta sumbangan kepada rantaian industri sawit, selain memastikan kelangsungan pendapatan komuniti peneroka. Kedua-dua pihak turut menegaskan bahawa isu ini akan ditangani secara profesional dan patuh undang-undang, dengan mengambil kira semua implikasi perundangan demi melindungi kepentingan peneroka, pekerja serta kestabilan sektor perladangan. Notis amaran tersebut tidak memberi kesan kepada operasi ladang peneroka, namun mempunyai implikasi terhadap operasi komersial FELDA dan FGV serta perancangan jangka panjang. FELDA dan FGV kekal komited mencari penyelesaian terbaik melalui saluran undang-undang yang teratur dan melalui kerjasama erat antara semua institusi kerajaan bagi memastikan keutuhan sektor perladangan serta kesejahteraan komuniti terus terpelihara.
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Markets Progress from Recovery Phase to Growth Stage, According to CGS International
CGS International Securities Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (“CGS MY”), a leading integrated financial services provider, has shared its preliminary market outlook ahead of the release of its annual Navigator Report 2026, providing insights into Malaysia’s economic and capital market prospects for the coming year. The report preview comes at a pivotal time, following Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN, the upcoming Budget 2026, and the rollout of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). CGS MY highlighted that ASEAN continues to be a global beacon of stability, with Malaysia playing a central role in the region due to its strategic economic and political positioning. Despite global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, Malaysia’s domestic markets have remained resilient, with trade volumes and values on Bursa Malaysia largely supported by domestic participation. Following a dip in April 2025, the FBM KLCI and FBM Emas indices rebounded to 1,619.63 and 11,818.32 points respectively, signaling steady investor confidence.
Khairi Shahrin Arief Baki, Chief Executive Officer-designate of CGS MY, expressed a constructive outlook for 2026, noting that Malaysia’s strategic location, strong domestic focus, and policy support for high-growth, high-value sectors position it as a safe haven amid ongoing US-China and China-Japan trade tensions. With seven more IPO listings in the pipeline for 2025, CGS MY expects Malaysia to maintain its leadership within ASEAN for capital market activity. The recent consultation paper by the Securities Commission Malaysia proposing updates to Main and ACE Market listing requirements is anticipated to further enhance Malaysia’s appeal as a destination for IPOs.
On the external front, geopolitical trade tensions are easing, with the US revising reciprocal tariffs downward, benefiting Malaysian exports. Over 60% of Malaysia’s exports to the US are projected to be exempt from tariffs, among the highest in ASEAN. Coupled with the US Federal Reserve resuming its rate cut cycle and Bank Negara Malaysia maintaining the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR), a narrowing of interest rate differentials is expected to positively impact the ringgit and the Malaysian stock market. CGS MY underscored that Malaysia’s investment growth is anchored in strong fundamentals, including political stability, fiscal discipline, and sound governance. Through its capital market leadership, the company aims to support these strengths by fostering collaborations across ASEAN and China while promoting sustainability-focused initiatives.
Domestically, the MADANI government’s economic reforms, including rationalization of subsidies and broadening of the public revenue base, have helped narrow the fiscal deficit from 5.5% of GDP in 2022 to a projected 3.5% in 2026. Strategic initiatives under the MADANI Economy, such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030), have driven investments to record levels, with approved investments hitting RM379 billion in 2024 and maintaining robust growth at RM285 billion for the first nine months of 2025. Looking ahead, the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) campaign targets 31 million tourist arrivals and RM147.1 billion in receipts, creating potential investment opportunities in tourism-related sectors including aviation, retail, healthcare, and REITs. With a combination of strong domestic fundamentals, supportive policies, and strategic international positioning, CGS MY believes Malaysia’s markets are well-poised to move from recovery into a sustained growth phase in 2026, offering attractive prospects for investors and capital market participants alike.