MalaysianUpdates

Category: Business

  • Midea Strengthens APAC Presence with “Power of One” Initiative in Malaysia

    Midea Strengthens APAC Presence with “Power of One” Initiative in Malaysia

    Midea, a leading global technology company and one of the world’s largest home appliance manufacturers, recently hosted its first-ever Asia-Pacific Dealer Conference in Bali. The event brought together 450 of its partners from across the region to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and growth under the theme “Power of One.” This landmark gathering showcased 150 products across five experiential innovation zones, underscoring Midea’s commitment to shaping a smarter, more sustainable way of living while reinforcing its local presence in markets such as Malaysia.

    According to Mr. Zeal Jiang, President of Midea Asia Pacific Region, the “Power of One” philosophy reflects three key pillars—technology leadership, local-for-local capabilities, and strong partnerships. Through continued investment in research and development, smart technologies, and regional production and service networks, Midea aims to build unstoppable momentum toward its ambition of becoming the world’s No.1 smart home appliance company. The company is targeting USD 1.5 billion in sales revenue across the Asia-Pacific region by 2028.

    During the conference, Midea showcased its latest innovations through five themed zones, each representing the brand’s vision for a connected and sustainable lifestyle. The Smart Master zone highlighted AI-powered home technologies, including smart cooling and real-time air purification systems that can be managed via the Midea SmartHome App. The AI Ecomaster zone demonstrated energy-saving solutions powered by artificial intelligence, capable of reducing energy consumption by up to 30 percent. The Space Master zone featured space-efficient home appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washer-dryers designed to maximize capacity without increasing footprint. Midea also presented its advanced residential air conditioners built with Prime Guard™ corrosion resistance for superior durability in humid climates, and its Midea Building Technologies (MBT) solutions, including the VC MAX VRF and Magboost Apex chiller systems designed for large-scale, energy-efficient applications.

    Midea’s innovation-driven growth is powered by a decade-long commitment to technological advancement. Over the past five years, the company has invested USD 10 billion in research and development, supported by a team of more than 23,000 professionals worldwide. With over 100,000 patents, 470 major technology awards, and contributions to 1,900 global technology standards, Midea continues to push the boundaries of smart home and industrial innovation. In the coming three years, the company plans to invest more than CNY 50 billion (USD 6.96 billion) into artificial intelligence, new energy, advanced robotics, and embodied intelligence. Among its recent milestones are the unveiling of the household humanoid robot MIRA at the 2025 World AI Conference and the establishment of a CNY 1.5 billion (USD 208.1 million) intelligence technology platform in Shanghai’s Qingpu district.

    Midea’s Asia-Pacific strategy focuses on local integration through manufacturing and service excellence. Operating 63 global production bases, including nine across Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, Midea emphasizes regional self-reliance and sustainability. Its Thailand factory was recognized as a World Economic Forum Lighthouse Factory for Supply Chain Resilience—the first in Southeast Asia’s air-conditioning industry—achieving 40 percent energy savings per unit and a 68.3 percent reduction in carbon emissions. To enhance customer satisfaction, Midea has launched the Midea Club Application across APAC, streamlining product delivery, installation, training, and warranty management for service engineers. The company also hosts more than 200 training and service events annually, aiming to train 30,000 engineers in the next three years.

    In Malaysia, Midea continues to reinforce its commitment through quarterly technical training sessions to strengthen local expertise and uphold service excellence. These initiatives align with the company’s broader goal of combining global innovation with local relevance, ensuring that its technologies deliver tangible benefits to Malaysian homes and communities.

    Midea’s leadership also extends to environmental and social impact. Recognized by S&P Global’s Sustainability Yearbook (China Edition) 2025, Midea’s ESG initiatives span from coral restoration projects in Bali—where over 1,000 corals were planted in collaboration with the Mangrove Indonesia Lestari Foundation—to flood relief, youth development, and elderly care programs in Malaysia. In partnership with the Persatuan Badminton Negeri Kelantan, Midea actively supports youth empowerment through sports and community engagement.

    “Our ambition at Midea is to achieve world-leading innovation with local relevance. That means ensuring our appliances not only set new standards globally, but also deliver benefits to Malaysian families and communities,” said Mr. Mark Tam, Managing Director of Midea Malaysia.

    Strengthening its brand presence globally, Midea continues to engage audiences through major sports partnerships, including its upcoming role as Main Partner Sleeve Sponsor of FC Barcelona, alongside ongoing collaborations with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Manchester City Football Club. Through its “Power of One” vision, Midea is uniting the Asia-Pacific region under a shared goal of innovation, sustainability, and growth—empowering both its partners and communities to build a smarter and more connected future together.

  • Budget 2026: Strengthening Housing Affordability and Resilience in Malaysia

    Budget 2026: Strengthening Housing Affordability and Resilience in Malaysia

    As Malaysians anticipate Budget 2026, the property market stands at an important crossroads. The 13th Malaysia Plan has outlined ambitious housing reform targets, including the delivery of one million affordable homes by 2035. However, the true challenge lies in ensuring that these goals are not only aspirational but translated into measures that respond directly to current market realities.

    Recent data paints a picture of both challenges and opportunities. The National Property Information Centre reported that in the first half of 2025, Malaysia’s property transaction volume declined by 1.3 percent to 196,232 transactions, while transaction value rose by 1.9 percent to RM107.68 billion. This suggests a mixed environment in which fewer homes are changing hands, yet values remain resilient, reflecting cautious sentiment from buyers but also stable pricing trends. Such conditions highlight the need for policies that restore clarity and confidence in the market.

    Demand for affordable housing remains especially strong, particularly for properties priced below RM300,000. PropertyGuru listings show that as of September 2025, there were more than 20,500 properties nationwide under this threshold, including about 2,500 in Kuala Lumpur. Yet many of these homes are older units located far from public transportation networks or in need of significant renovation, underscoring that affordability is not determined by price alone but also by accessibility and quality.

    The challenge becomes clearer when affordability is measured against household income. NAPIC data reveals that the average house price in Malaysia stood at RM486,070 in the first quarter of 2025, well above what many B40 and lower M40 families can reasonably afford. While homes below RM300,000 are widely considered affordable, their availability in desirable locations remains limited. Encouragingly, however, buyer interest in this segment has shown resilience. Between April and June 2025, enquiries for homes under RM300,000 surged by 27.3 percent and remained steady through July. Although there was an 8.7 percent decline in such enquiries between December 2024 and September 2025 due to economic uncertainty, the recent rebound suggests that Malaysians are quick to re-engage when they sense greater stability and opportunity.

    Location continues to be a decisive factor. Demand is strongest in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, and Penang, where job opportunities, infrastructure, and amenities are concentrated. Budget 2026 could therefore have a significant impact by encouraging the development of mid-priced, transit-linked homes in these key corridors. In the meantime, rent-to-own schemes remain a practical solution for many households, particularly those in the lowest B40 income group where rental affordability averages around RM1,500. Well-designed rent-to-own programmes can offer a realistic path to eventual ownership while meeting immediate housing needs.

    Another critical issue is aligning supply with actual demand. In recent years, developers have often focused on projects at higher price points, leaving a gap in the mid-market segment where most aspiring buyers are concentrated. NAPIC reported that new residential launches fell sharply in the first half of 2025, dropping by 46 percent to 23,380 units compared to 43,167 in the same period the year before. Meanwhile, the number of unsold completed homes rose by 16.3 percent to 26,911 units valued at RM18.6 billion. These figures reveal a clear mismatch between the types of housing being delivered and the needs of Malaysian households. Budget 2026 presents an opportunity to bridge this gap by supporting mid-market projects in urban centres, encouraging the redevelopment of underutilised land, and streamlining approval processes through digitalisation and more transparent timelines.

    Affordability, however, is only one part of building a future-proof housing market. Increasingly, Malaysians are seeking homes that are not just affordable but also sustainable, energy efficient, and socially inclusive. Developers are beginning to respond to this demand by incorporating environmentally friendly features into their projects, from preserving large green spaces within townships to embedding low-carbon, smart-city technologies. Many new buildings are also attaining higher levels of green certification, demonstrating improvements in energy, water, and resource efficiency. These advances prove that sustainability is not merely an abstract ideal but a practical standard that can be scaled across the sector.

    Budget 2026 could accelerate this shift by incentivising the use of green building technologies such as rooftop solar panels, water-efficient systems, and industrialised building systems that reduce waste and shorten construction time. At the same time, policies to encourage retrofitting older housing stock with energy-saving upgrades would help lower household costs while extending the value of existing properties. Equally important is social sustainability, which involves fostering mixed-income communities supported by public transportation, education, and healthcare access. Transparent disclosure of building performance standards, such as energy ratings and maintenance fund health, would also increase buyer confidence and encourage better asset management.

    By integrating sustainability with affordability, Malaysia can move towards a housing market that is not only larger but also stronger, more resilient, and aligned with long-term national goals. Budget 2026 should therefore be seen as more than a fiscal policy exercise. It is an opportunity to reflect the realities of the current market while shaping the aspirations of future generations. By focusing on affordability, ensuring supply meets real demand, and embedding sustainability at the heart of housing policy, the government can ensure that the vision of the 13th Malaysia Plan translates into tangible outcomes for Malaysians.

    PropertyGuru and iProperty remain committed to supporting this journey by working with policymakers, developers, and financial institutions to provide the insights and digital tools that empower Malaysians to make confident, informed decisions. With the right balance of policies, Budget 2026 can lay the foundation for a transparent, inclusive, and future-proof housing ecosystem, where every Malaysian has both the opportunity and the means to achieve homeownership.

  • TVS 2026: Dari Borneo ke Nusantara – Transformasi Kandungan & Peluang Penajaan

    TVS 2026: Dari Borneo ke Nusantara – Transformasi Kandungan & Peluang Penajaan

    TV Sarawak (TVS), stesen televisyen pertama dari Bumi Kenyalang yang kini berkembang pesat di peringkat nasional, terus menegaskan kedudukannya sebagai platform media dinamik melalui penganjuran sidang media eksklusif “TVS Spotlight 25/26”. Acara ini menjadi landasan penting bagi TVS untuk menyingkap visi dan hala tuju bagi tahun 2026, termasuk memperkenalkan rangkaian program baharu yang merangkumi drama, hiburan, dokumentari serta liputan acara sukan ikonik. Dalam masa yang sama, TVS turut mempersembahkan pakej penajaan menyeluruh yang dirangka khas untuk klien dan rakan strategik.

    Sejak ditubuhkan pada tahun 2020, TVS kekal komited mengangkat identiti Borneo ke pentas nasional menerusi kandungan yang meraikan budaya serta warisan tempatan. Pendekatan ini diperkukuh dengan gabungan kekuatan penyiaran tradisional dan digital, membolehkan TVS menjangkau penonton bukan sahaja di seluruh Malaysia tetapi juga ke peringkat serantau.

    Menurut Dato’ Norhyati Ismail, Pengerusi dan Presiden TVS / Sarawak Media Group (SMG), matlamat utama TVS kini adalah untuk meningkatkan lagi visibiliti jenama di pasaran nasional. Dengan pengenalan kandungan segar serta peluang penajaan baharu, TVS berharap dapat menarik lebih ramai rakan kongsi strategik bagi memperkukuh pengaruhnya di peringkat serantau dan nasional.

    Tahun 2026 dijangka menjadi fasa penting buat TVS dengan pelancaran pelbagai kandungan menarik. Antaranya termasuk Gerak Khas 2.0, drama tempatan, rancangan realiti, dokumentari dan liputan langsung acara sukan antarabangsa seperti Sukan SEA, perlawanan Harimau Malaya dan Piala Carabao. Semua inisiatif ini dirangka bagi memastikan TVS kekal relevan dan berkesan sebagai media yang memahami dinamika Borneo sambil menghubungkan penonton ke seluruh Malaysia.

    Dalam mengekalkan identiti asalnya, TVS terus meraikan budaya dan warisan Borneo melalui penceritaan tradisi serta acara tempatan. Program seperti Sarawak Regatta dan Sambutan Perayaan Gawai dijadikan wadah untuk memperkenalkan keunikan budaya kepada penonton di seluruh Malaysia serta rantau ASEAN.

    Bagi memenuhi keperluan pengiklan yang semakin pelbagai, TVS memperkenalkan pakej penajaan 360 darjah yang melibatkan televisyen, digital, platform media sosial dan papan iklan LED berimpak tinggi. Kerjasama dengan rakan media seperti Suara Sarawak, Sarawak Tribune dan Cats FM menjadikan TVS sebagai platform pengiklanan bersepadu yang mampu memberi nilai tambah kepada jenama.

    Dalam usaha menyokong pembangunan industri kreatif tempatan, TVS juga memberi peluang luas kepada produksi tempatan dan bakat baharu. Sehingga kini, lebih 300 vendor tempatan telah bekerjasama dengan TVS, mewujudkan lebih 3,000 peluang pekerjaan untuk anak seni serta karyawan kreatif. Komitmen ini menegaskan peranan TVS dalam memperkukuh ekosistem kreatif dan pengiklanan negara.

    Dengan sasaran penonton yang meliputi seluruh Malaysia dari Perlis hingga ke Sabah, TVS yakin mampu memperluaskan pengaruhnya ke pasaran serantau. Melalui “TVS Spotlight 25/26”, TVS membuka lembaran baharu dalam usaha membina kerjasama strategik bersama klien, penaja dan media untuk memperkukuh kedudukannya sebagai salah satu pemain utama dalam industri penyiaran Malaysia.

  • TMT Launches Malaysia’s First Starlink Experience Store at PJ Highstreet

    TMT Launches Malaysia’s First Starlink Experience Store at PJ Highstreet

    Thunder Match Technology Sdn. Bhd. (TMT), Malaysia’s largest technology retail chain, has announced the arrival of Starlink Mini, the latest portable satellite internet device developed by SpaceX. As an authorised partner of Starlink, TMT is committed to making revolutionary satellite internet services more accessible to Malaysians, particularly those living in rural and underserved areas. This announcement further strengthens TMT’s role as Starlink’s official retail partner in Malaysia and highlights its mission to bridge the digital divide while empowering communities through smarter technology solutions.

    The Starlink Mini is designed to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet in a compact and portable form. With its easy setup and mobility, it offers reliable connectivity for users on the move, whether for remote work, travel, outdoor activities, or in locations where traditional broadband access is unavailable. Customers can now explore, test, and experience the Starlink Mini first-hand at TMT’s newly launched Starlink Experience Store located in PJ Damansara Uptown, Kuala Lumpur. The store showcases live demonstrations of Starlink technology, giving visitors a clearer understanding of its capabilities before making a purchase.

    Starlink is powered by an advanced constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that deliver high-speed broadband services with minimal latency, even in remote and hard-to-reach regions. This breakthrough innovation has the potential to transform digital connectivity across Malaysia by providing reliable internet access for households, businesses, and communities.

    The management of TMT expressed that this partnership represents a significant milestone for the company. According to its statement, Starlink’s innovative satellite network offers a groundbreaking solution to address Malaysia’s longstanding connectivity challenges, particularly in rural areas. TMT’s goal is to empower individuals and businesses with greater access to education, new opportunities, and improved quality of life. The collaboration with Starlink also reflects TMT’s commitment to supporting Malaysia’s ongoing digital transformation and ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age.

    Established in 1997, Thunder Match Technology Sdn. Bhd. operates more than 50 outlets nationwide and across various e-commerce platforms. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, TMT provides a comprehensive range of products and services, including mobile devices, personal computers, laptops, printers, software, accessories, and IT servicing. The company has established strong partnerships with many leading global technology brands. In July 2023, TMT was acquired by Nojima APAC Limited, strengthening its retail presence, enhancing consumer experience, and boosting operational capabilities.

    More information about TMT can be found at www.tmt.my.

  • KAO Malaysia & Universiti Malaya Unite for Breakthroughs in Skin Health

    KAO Malaysia & Universiti Malaya Unite for Breakthroughs in Skin Health

    KAO Malaysia and Universiti Malaya (UM) have announced the successful completion of the “Skin Protection, Life Perfection” campaign with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalising their joint commitment to advancing public health through skincare education and research.

    As part of this collaboration, KAO Malaysia, through its leading skincare brand Bioré, is contributing RM50,000 in funding across two flagship initiatives led by Universiti Malaya. The first initiative is a community engagement programme titled “Beautiful Change Begins with Us,” managed by the Universiti Malaya Community Engagement Centre (UMCares). This programme focuses on hygiene awareness, environmental sustainability, and positive mental wellness for teenagers, adults, and children. The second initiative is a research collaboration titled “Innovative Clean Skincare Formulations for Skin Protection and Healthy Living,” which will be conducted by the Faculty of Science at Universiti Malaya. Both projects are part of KAO Malaysia’s 1% pledge of Bioré product sales to support local skin health research.

    Mr. Yamazaki Hirobumi, President of KAO Malaysia, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating that the partnership reflects KAO’s commitment to going beyond product innovation to create meaningful, science-driven impact in the communities it serves. He emphasised that skin protection is not just a personal care choice but a public health responsibility, and expressed pride in working with Universiti Malaya to advance this vision for the benefit of all Malaysians.

    This MoU marks KAO Malaysia’s first academic partnership with an educational institution in the country. Through this collaboration, KAO and UM aim to bridge science and public awareness to position skincare as a fundamental pillar of community health. Guided by the shared vision of “Skin Protection, Life Perfection,” the campaign initially began as a community awareness initiative and has now been extended through KAO’s funding support. This will enable Universiti Malaya to strengthen its community engagement programmes and enhance its research efforts with new resources and equipment for long-term impact in skin health and wellness education.

    Associate Professor ChM. Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Director of UMCares, expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, noting that the MoU opens new opportunities to translate academic research into practical solutions. She added that the partnership will drive advancements in clean formulation development while fostering greater community engagement.

    The MoU was officially signed between Mr. Yamazaki Hirobumi, President of KAO Malaysia, and Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Watsons Malaysia and included a symbolic donation handover to mark the shared commitment of all parties toward meaningful collaboration.

    The “Skin Protection, Life Perfection” campaign was originally launched in May 2025 in partnership with Watsons, championing skin protection as the key to confidence. Powered by Bioré’s “Cleanse. Protect.” philosophy, the initiative combined expert education, engaging consumer experiences, and a pledge of one percent of product sales to support local research. With Universiti Malaya and skincare professionals lending their expertise, Watsons helped bring the campaign to life nationwide with exclusive rewards and member perks.

    With the signing of the MoU, the partnership now moves forward with a long-term commitment to advancing skin health, ensuring that the collaboration between KAO Malaysia, Universiti Malaya, and Watsons will continue to benefit communities across Malaysia for years to come.

  • M+Global Launches Malaysia’s First Stockbroking Concept Store to Drive Financial Literacy

    M+Global by Malacca Securities, Malaysia’s number one stock trading platform and trusted all-in-one trading app, has unveiled its very first stockbroking concept store at KL Eco City. Positioned as the country’s first of its kind stock trading retail experience, the concept store brings together financial technology and a human touch to help Malaysians, particularly those between the ages of 25 to 45, close financial knowledge gaps with clarity and confidence in a premium physical space.

    The launch ceremony was attended by representatives from Bursa Malaysia and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, and included a special tele-presentation by Malaysia’s rising badminton star, Toh Ee Wei. The concept store offers a new level of engagement with features such as a product experience zone, an investment learning hub, retail merchandise, private consultation, and a lively “Snap It” photo zone designed to enhance the learning journey.

    Speaking at the launch, M+Global Managing Director Lim Chia Wei explained that the concept store strengthens the company’s promise of “Less Guessing, More Guiding.” She emphasized that the focus on financial education is aimed at moving Malaysians beyond simply saving money to actively growing their wealth through knowledge, advice, and strategic investing. With more than 200 in-house licensed investment experts, M+Global will also host a series of sharing sessions, talks, and seminars in collaboration with other professionals to provide a complete and well-rounded financial perspective.

    The initiative comes at a critical time. According to Bank Negara Malaysia, the Malaysia Financial Literacy and Capability Index has improved from 57.1 in 2018 to 59.1 in 2024, yet challenges remain in terms of financial behavior and resilience. The 2024 Financial Capability and Inclusion survey found that 61 percent of Malaysians struggle to raise as little as RM1,000 in an emergency. Many save regularly, but often only for short-term needs, while debt from student loans and personal credit continues to weigh heavily, with 26 percent of Malaysians reporting that they carry too much debt.

    By leveraging more than 60 years of financial services expertise through Malacca Securities, M+Global is addressing these challenges with a fresh approach. Visitors to the store will gain access to private consultations tailored to their investment needs, ensuring personalized support that takes individual goals and challenges into account. The Investment Learning Hub also offers a new dimension to financial education through workshops, seminars, talk shows, and interactive sessions that make money matters engaging and relatable.

    October will see the launch of its interactive talk series with BBK Network, known for breaking down complex financial concepts into fun and relatable advice that resonates with young Malaysians. In November, the program will feature Financial Faiz, a well-regarded financial educator who provides practical, step-by-step strategies for wealth building and financial independence. The series will continue in January with a special guest to be announced later.

    In conjunction with the launch, M+Global also introduced its first brand ambassador, Toh Ee Wei, one of Malaysia’s most promising badminton players and fresh off her historic gold medal victory in mixed doubles at the 2025 World Championships in Paris. As brand ambassador, Toh will highlight the importance of financial literacy and planning, particularly among young Malaysians and national athletes. Her appointment is also symbolic of continuity, as her father has served M+Global for over two decades.

    The opening of the M+Global Concept Store marks a new milestone in making financial knowledge accessible, personal, and engaging. By combining education, expert guidance, and community-driven events, the store represents a step forward in helping Malaysians move from uncertainty to empowerment in their financial journeys.

  • Trip.com Strengthens Regional Presence with Expanded Malaysia Support Hub

    Trip.com, a leading international one-stop travel service provider, recently celebrated the official opening of its expanded Malaysia Customer Support Center, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance travel experiences for millions of travelers worldwide.

    As artificial intelligence continues to transform the travel industry with innovations such as AI-powered recommendations, instant translation tools, and real-time assistance, Trip.com believes that true service excellence comes from blending technological innovation with human expertise. With around 16,000 representatives across 16 support centers worldwide, Trip.com Group’s global customer service network reflects this philosophy by delivering 24/7 multilingual assistance. The majority of calls and chats related to flights and hotels are answered within 30 seconds, ensuring travelers always receive reliable, efficient, and empathetic support throughout their journey.

    Since its establishment in 2023, the Malaysia Customer Support Center has achieved tenfold growth in just two years, cementing its position as a strategic hub within Trip.com’s global operations. The center now supports a wide range of Trip.com products and plays a vital role in driving the company’s regional growth.

    “Automation enhances speed and efficiency, but at Trip.com we never lose sight of the human touch,” said Arvin Singh, Senior Service Manager at Trip.com Malaysia. “As a fully Malaysian team, we have the expertise, from local languages to cultural nuances, to better understand our customers and their needs. By combining this with cutting-edge technology, we are able to provide personalized and effective solutions that ensure our customers feel truly supported.”

    Trip.com’s strong service culture is reflected in its performance, with the majority of customer requests after sales receiving responses within 30 minutes to one hour. More than 85 percent of issues are successfully resolved on the first attempt, and the platform currently holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.4 out of 5, highlighting the trust and confidence customers place in its services.

    Stephane Thong, General Manager of Trip.com Malaysia, emphasized the importance of the local market to the company’s overall strategy. “Malaysia and Southeast Asia are among our most important markets, contributing significantly to Trip.com’s steady growth performance. Expanding our customer service operations here reflects our long-term vision of making Malaysia a hub not only for customer support but also for travel innovation, talent development, and collaboration with local industry partners. We see tremendous potential in strengthening the local tourism ecosystem, attracting more international visitors, and ensuring that every traveler who engages with Trip.com enjoys a seamless and memorable journey.”

    She added that with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approaching, Trip.com is committed to supporting the country’s tourism goals. By leveraging its platform, the company aims to increase Malaysia’s visibility on the global stage and provide enhanced travel experiences for all.

    Trip.com Group’s customer-first philosophy has powered its growth over the past 25 years, balancing innovation with genuine human empathy. The expansion of the Malaysia Customer Support Center forms part of its global growth strategy and reinforces the company’s commitment to setting new benchmarks for travel service excellence across Southeast Asia and beyond.

  • FWD Insurance Berhad and Bank Simpanan Nasional Introduce Qaseh Setia, an Inclusive Insurance Plan Designed to Protect All Malaysians with a Special Focus on the B40 Community

    FWD Insurance Berhad and Bank Simpanan Nasional Introduce Qaseh Setia, an Inclusive Insurance Plan Designed to Protect All Malaysians with a Special Focus on the B40 Community

    Life’s uncertainties often bring financial worries, especially for vulnerable communities. Addressing this challenge, FWD Insurance Berhad (“FWD Insurance”) together with its longstanding bancassurance partner, Bank Simpanan Nasional (“BSN”), has introduced Qaseh Setia, an affordable microinsurance plan aimed at providing essential financial protection to all Malaysians, particularly those from the B40 income group. Since its launch in April 2025, Qaseh Setia has already touched the lives of over 20,000 Malaysians, reflecting growing trust and strong demand.

    For as little as RM0.20 a day, Qaseh Setia delivers meaningful coverage. The plan includes financial protection of up to RM90,000 for accidental death, RM15,000 for non-accidental death or total permanent disability, and up to RM3,000 to cover funeral expenses. This comprehensive support underscores FWD Insurance and BSN’s commitment to easing financial burdens during difficult times, ensuring families are not left without crucial assistance.

    Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Insurance, described Qaseh Setia as more than just a policy: “It’s about empowering underserved communities with protection and peace of mind. Insurance should not be seen as a luxury but as a necessity that everyone deserves access to. With Qaseh Setia, we want Malaysians to live confidently, knowing their loved ones are protected when it matters most.”

    Echoing this sentiment, BSN’s Chief Executive, Jay Khairil, emphasized the bank’s mission of inclusivity: “Qaseh Setia represents our goal of ‘No Malaysian Left Behind.’ It is about providing affordable protection to safeguard families, especially those in the B40 community, from financial strain during life’s toughest challenges.”

    Accessibility remains at the heart of Qaseh Setia. With no medical check-up required upon enrolment, the process is simplified, removing one of the biggest hurdles for lower-income families and making insurance more approachable than ever.

    Adding to this initiative, FWD Insurance is also hosting the 2025 FWD Fiesta Campaign roadshow at Mytown Shopping Centre from 21 to 24 August 2025. The event aims to raise awareness of financial planning through interactive booths showcasing Qaseh Setia and Qaseh Bakti Plus, alongside free health checks for attendees. To create a community-focused experience, the roadshow also offers engaging activities, such as a sand art station for children, and exciting giveaways including a grand prize of a brand-new Proton X50.

    Through initiatives like Qaseh Setia and the FWD Fiesta, FWD Insurance continues to drive its vision of “Changing the way people feel about insurance”, transforming it into something simple, approachable, and essential for everyday Malaysians.

  • YelaoShr Sets Sights on Nationwide Growth After Breaking ASEAN Records for Graduates and Franchisees

    YelaoShr Sets Sights on Nationwide Growth After Breaking ASEAN Records for Graduates and Franchisees

    Malaysia’s early childhood education sector marked a historic milestone today as YelaoShr officially transitioned into a licensed franchise brand, welcoming 66 new franchisees from across the country. This expansion signifies YelaoShr’s evolution from a homegrown initiative into a national education movement, offering a scalable and structured model that empowers individuals to participate meaningfully in early childhood learning.

    Officiated by Datuk Dr. Radzali Hassan, Chairman of the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA), the ceremony underscored the brand’s readiness to drive national growth through franchising. Speaking at the event, Datuk Dr. Radzali commended the initiative, stating that when franchising is done right, it multiplies not only profit, but also accessibility, opportunity, and impact. YelaoShr, he said, is a prime example of how franchising can bring meaningful change to the education landscape.

    The brand’s expansion is supported by a dynamic network of new franchise partners that includes educators, parents, and first-time entrepreneurs. Their involvement reflects growing confidence in YelaoShr’s model and reinforces the belief that local communities can take ownership of delivering personalised, high-quality education.

    YelaoShr’s ambitious growth plans are powered by a well-integrated ecosystem. The group provides a full suite of services including Ministry of Education-recognised language and communication programmes, teacher training and TVET initiatives, proprietary EdTech development, and cross-border digital learning platforms. These efforts are designed to support the company’s vision of operating 300 learning centres across Malaysia by 2028, with future expansion already planned for Thailand, Cambodia, and Singapore.

    Co-Founder and CEO Dr. David Yap Wing Fai emphasised that franchising, for YelaoShr, is not just a business model but a mission of empowerment. He highlighted the company’s goal of enabling more Malaysians particularly women, educators, and young professionals to own and operate education centres with a proven system, comprehensive support, and strong social impact. He added that the goal of reaching 300 centres is not just about scale, but about creating 300 stories of transformation and community success.

    The ceremony was made even more significant with the announcement that YelaoShr had earned two recognitions from the ASEAN Records. The company was honoured for producing the highest number of graduates from Malaysia’s first trilingual one-on-one formative learning programme, and for signing the most franchise memoranda of agreement in a single day by a Malaysian personalised education brand. These accolades not only reinforce the brand’s position as a leader in the region but also highlight the scalability and effectiveness of its model, which has also been recognised by global education platform HundrED.

    To support its growing network, YelaoShr signed a Memorandum of Understanding with HELP University. The partnership allows HELP students to intern at YelaoShr centres and provides high-performing graduates a clear transition into the company’s franchise development programme. This includes mentorship, training, and startup support, ensuring a steady pipeline of well-prepared edupreneurs. Additionally, the collaboration will see annual awards granted to outstanding graduates to help them launch their own YelaoShr centres.

    Further reinforcing its mission and values, YelaoShr unveiled a new book titled “Finnish Education is What Malaysian Children Need the Most”. The publication draws on Finland’s world-renowned education philosophy and aligns it with Malaysia’s Madani Education Framework 2025–2035. The book presents a unified vision of child-centric learning where imagination, emotional intelligence, and academic structure coexist to create meaningful educational experiences.

    Rooted in a deep commitment to community, YelaoShr concluded the event with contributions worth over RM30,000 to three charitable organisations: Maahad Tahfiz Istiqomatuddin Sementa Klang, Madrasah Tahfiz Al-Quran Darul Falah in Melaka, and Dual Blessing Bhd., a non-profit organisation supporting persons with disabilities. These donations reflect the brand’s belief that educational success must go hand in hand with social responsibility.

    Founded by Dr. David Yap and Dr. Carol Yap Yee Yee, YelaoShr has grown from a small home-based language enrichment programme into a national educational platform with over 60 centres. Its journey has been defined by a commitment to equitable access, innovation, and sustainability, with its goals aligned to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. As the brand now expands through franchising, it remains firmly focused on bridging learning gaps, nurturing potential, and enabling children to thrive regardless of background or location.

    For more information about YelaoShr’s programmes and franchise opportunities, visit yelaoshr.edu.my.

  • CARSOME and BATERIKU Join Forces to Redefine Car Ownership with On-Demand Battery Services and Nationwide Access

    CARSOME and BATERIKU Join Forces to Redefine Car Ownership with On-Demand Battery Services and Nationwide Access

    CARSOME, Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, today announced a strategic partnership with BATERIKU, Malaysia’s leading provider of on-demand battery replacement and connected roadside assistance. This collaboration further strengthens CARSOME’s comprehensive automotive ecosystem, offering greater convenience, support, and peace of mind for car owners nationwide.

    Through this partnership, CARSOME customers can now access BATERIKU’s battery replacement services directly via the CARSOME app and website. As part of the launch, customers will receive RM50 off their next on-site battery replacement using promo code CARSOME50 (terms apply).

    This integration expands CARSOME’s digital touchpoints and brings added accessibility via BATERIKU’s 220+ Pitstop outlets, enabling customers to:

    • Conduct AI-driven vehicle valuations
    • Book inspection appointments
    • Sell their cars or buy their next ride all within their local communities

    Additionally, ASTRA batteries BATERIKU’s proprietary SIRIM-certified product will now be used in the refurbishment process of vehicles at the CARSOME Certified Lab, reinforcing product reliability and CARSOME’s commitment to quality.

    “At CARSOME, our mission is to make car ownership more transparent, convenient, and trustworthy. This collaboration with BATERIKU ensures our customers not only get a high-quality vehicle but also continued support throughout their ownership journey,” said Eric Chan, CARSOME Group’s President and COO.

    “BATERIKU’s nationwide reach and reputation for reliability make them an ideal partner as we continue to innovate. Together, we are building a smarter, more connected automotive experience,” Chan added.

    With over 500,000 units sold and a warranty claim rate of under 0.5%, BATERIKU brings trusted service and deep operational expertise to this initiative. Their network of 1,500+ mobile technicians (BHeros) ensures that customers receive fast, professional support anywhere in Malaysia.

    “An ASTRA battery is more than just power it’s a commitment to quality and trust,” said Azarol Faizi, CEO of Bateriku.com. “Our partnership with CARSOME is a milestone in advancing smarter mobility across Malaysia by combining great products with an even greater ownership experience.”

    This collaboration marks a significant step forward in CARSOME’s mission to deliver a seamless, integrated car ownership journey from purchase to post-sale support solidifying its leadership in the digital automotive space.

    About CARSOME
    CARSOME is Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, operating across Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore. With a full-stack ecosystem that spans inspection, financing, refurbishment, and car content, CARSOME empowers customers and dealers to transact with trust and transparency.

    About BATERIKU
    BATERIKU is Malaysia’s leading on-demand battery and roadside assistance provider with a network of 220+ Pitstop outlets and over 1,500 mobile technicians. The brand is best known for its SIRIM-certified ASTRA batteries and commitment to redefining after-sales car support.

    For more information, visit www.carsome.my and www.bateriku.com.