MalaysianUpdates

Category: Corporate Announcements

  • SSM Terus Komited Perkukuh Tadbir Urus Korporat Sempena Sambutan Ke-24 Tahun

    Hari ini menandakan ulang tahun ke-24 penubuhan Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM). Sejak ditubuhkan pada 16 April 2002, SSM kekal komited melaksanakan mandatnya sebagai pendaftar dan pengawal selia korporat negara, berpaksikan visi untuk menjadi pendaftar dan pengawal selia korporat terulung.

    Sepanjang 24 tahun penubuhannya, SSM telah membina legasi kejayaan berasaskan komitmen dan profesionalisme seluruh warganya dalam memperkukuh tadbir urus korporat negara yang sentiasa berkembang seiring dengan tuntutan semasa. Bersempena ulang tahun ke-24 ini dan mengambil inspirasi daripada angka 4, SSM memperkenalkan empat inisiatif utama bagi tahun 2026.

    Inisiatif pertama ialah Klinik Pematuhan dan Kempen Pemulihan Serah Simpan Dokumen Statutori bagi membantu syarikat yang menghadapi kesukaran memenuhi kewajipan pematuhan di bawah Akta Syarikat 2016. Inisiatif ini memberi ruang kepada syarikat untuk melaksanakan pemulihan bagi dokumen statutori yang tertunggak, dengan manfaat termasuk pengecualian tawaran kompaun bagi kesalahan yang belum dikompaun serta pengurangan kompaun sehingga 98% mengikut seksyen kesalahan berkaitan.

    Inisiatif kedua ialah penerusan Skim 1 OKU 1 Perniagaan bagi menyokong kelangsungan usahawan orang kurang upaya melalui pendaftaran dan pembaharuan perniagaan secara percuma setiap tahun. Inisiatif ketiga pula melibatkan lanjutan Skim Pendaftaran Perniagaan Percuma (SPPP) daripada satu tahun kepada dua tahun, khusus untuk usahawan kumpulan B40 serta pelajar sepenuh masa di IPTA, IPTS, politeknik, kolej, institut kemahiran dan pusat kemahiran.

    Inisiatif keempat ialah pengenalan Skim Pendaftaran Perniagaan Percuma Warga Emas (SPPWE) yang akan bermula pada 1 Jun 2026, bertujuan memberi peluang kepada warga emas untuk menjana pendapatan melalui aktiviti keusahawanan sekali gus membolehkan mereka terus aktif menyumbang kepada ekonomi negara.

    Kesemua inisiatif ini diharap dapat meningkatkan tahap pematuhan korporat, memudahkan urusan perniagaan serta memperkukuh kecekapan dan ketelusan ekosistem perniagaan negara secara menyeluruh.

    Di kesempatan ini, setinggi-tinggi penghargaan diucapkan kepada seluruh warga SSM atas dedikasi dan khidmat bakti yang berterusan. Semoga SSM terus unggul sebagai pendaftar dan pengawal selia korporat yang berwibawa dan progresif, selaras dengan aspirasi Kerangka Ekonomi MADANI.

    Selamat Ulang Tahun ke-24 SSM.

  • JÄÄDE Signals Strong Optimism for the Growth of Malaysia’s Premium Bottled Water Market

    JÄÄDE Signals Strong Optimism for the Growth of Malaysia’s Premium Bottled Water Market

    JÄÄDE, the premium natural mineral water brand from Finland, is strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia with a strategic expansion into Malaysia—an increasingly attractive market driven by rising demand for high-quality, health-focused consumer products. The company has announced the establishment of its local office, marking a significant step toward long-term growth and positioning Malaysia as a key hub for its regional ambitions. Through targeted investments in brand-building, partnerships, and distribution, JÄÄDE aims to connect with consumers who prioritise purity, quality, and sustainability in their everyday choices.

    In alignment with Malaysia’s regulatory standards, JÄÄDE is currently securing all necessary approvals from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and the Ministry of Health (MOH). These steps ensure full compliance and reinforce the brand’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and market readiness. According to Allan Poh, Director of Aqua Matters Pte Ltd—the principal company behind JÄÄDE—Malaysia represents a “natural next step” for the brand’s Asian footprint. He noted that the country’s vibrant food and beverage landscape, growing affluence, and increasing interest in wellness present a prime opportunity to introduce the pure, naturally sourced water of Finland to discerning consumers.

    Poh also referenced insights from the Malaysia Bottled Water Industry Report 2023 by Research and Markets, which projects the local market to reach US$522 million by 2032, supported by a CAGR of approximately 5.7% from 2023 to 2032. This promising outlook underscores the strong potential for JÄÄDE’s integration into the premium bottled water category, offering a favourable environment for long-term brand positioning.

    Produced in accordance with stringent European regulations, JÄÄDE is sourced from protected groundwater reserves in Finland and naturally filtered through ancient glacial rock formed during the last Ice Age. This process delivers exceptionally clean, refreshing water reflective of Finland’s pristine landscapes and deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. As it enters Malaysia, JÄÄDE will introduce a versatile range of SKUs tailored to diverse consumer and hospitality needs, from daily hydration to upscale dining experiences.

    To support its expansion, JÄÄDE is actively seeking strategic partnerships with select distributors, premium retailers, and hospitality groups that align with its values of quality, purity, and authenticity. These collaborations will play a critical role in extending the brand’s reach nationwide, placing JÄÄDE in trusted spaces that echo its refined, Scandinavian-inspired identity.

    More information about JÄÄDE’s journey, product offerings, and regional ambitions can be found at its official website, www.jaadewater.com

    About Aqua Matters Pte Ltd
    Aqua Matters Pte Ltd is the holding company of a Finnish water bottling plant specializing in the production and distribution of high-quality bottled water brand JÄÄDE. With a focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability, the company plans to develop a portfolio of premium beverage brands to meet evolving marketing demand and support long-term regional growth. Aqua Matters builds value through strong distribution networks, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision for expansion in Asia’s fast-growing markets.


    About JÄÄDE
    JÄÄDE is a premium bottled water brand from Finland. Sourced from the country’s pristine natural reserves and filtered through ancient glacial rock, JÄÄDE offers one of the purest drinking experiences in the world. Pronounced yah-day, the name combines the Finnish words for ‘ice’ (jää) with ‘spring’ (lähde) —a reflection of both origin and energy. Naturally protected and untouched by
    industrial influence, JÄÄDE embodies the clarity and calm of the Nordic wilderness. Created for retail, hospitality, and refined lifestyle settings, JÄÄDE brings Finnish purity to a global audience— designed for those who seek simplicity, quality and wellbeing in every detail.

  • HONOR Amplifies Its Commitment to Empowering APAC’s Youth with AI Literacy Programmes

    HONOR Amplifies Its Commitment to Empowering APAC’s Youth with AI Literacy Programmes

    HONOR has taken a significant leap in advancing youth-focused digital development with the launch of the AI + Youth Empowerment Society (AYES) at the inaugural HONOR AI + Design Summit 2025 (APAC Edition) in Malaysia. Positioned as a major milestone in strengthening AI literacy across the Asia-Pacific region, the initiative underscores the company’s commitment to equipping young people with the skills, creativity, and readiness needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world.

    With more than 700 million young people living in APAC, the digital skills gap remains a pressing challenge. AYES aims to close this gap by uniting a powerful coalition of 25 founding members, comprising government agencies, universities, and industry leaders. Key partners include Malaysia’s National AI Office, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), China’s Central Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore’s Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, and GSMA APAC. As the primary driving force behind the initiative, HONOR will oversee coordination and programme development to ensure impactful, region-wide implementation.

    According to Martin Xu, Senior Vice President of HONOR, the initiative represents more than a technological effort—it is an investment in the region’s future. Xu emphasized that empowering young people with AI and digital capabilities is crucial to driving economic growth and sustaining innovation across APAC. He also highlighted HONOR’s long-standing dedication to nurturing creative youth through initiatives like the HONOR Talents Design Competition, which has attracted over 35,000 creators from more than 40 countries.

    Xu further noted that the Asia-Pacific region remains a strategic growth partner for HONOR, and the company is committed to accelerating regional digital transformation through an open AI ecosystem. By promoting productivity, cross-industry innovation, and inclusive progress, HONOR envisions a future where AI and design synergize to uplift local talent and contribute to long-term development.

    The launch event drew over 200 scholars, industry experts, and young creators, along with tech media partners Amanz, Zing Gadget, and TechNave. The summit served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, collaborative discussions, and the exploration of solutions tailored to meet the region’s evolving digital needs.

    In a highlight of the event, HONOR presented its first AYES Outstanding Contribution Award to renowned Malaysian designer Joseph Foo, recognising his influential role in championing youth empowerment and creative education. Through workshops, the HONOR Global Design Summit, and the Alpha Technology & Art Tour, Foo has mentored and inspired more than 10,000 young creators across APAC.

    The establishment of AYES marks a pivotal moment for the region, positioning HONOR at the forefront of youth-centric AI education and creative empowerment. As the initiative expands, it is set to play a transformative role in shaping the next generation of APAC talent poised to lead the future of AI, design, and digital innovation.

  • Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) Introduces the “Penang Inspiring Meetings x Visit Malaysia 2026” Campaign to Promote the State as a Premier Meetings Destination

    Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) Introduces the “Penang Inspiring Meetings x Visit Malaysia 2026” Campaign to Promote the State as a Premier Meetings Destination

    The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) has officially launched its latest business events initiative, “Penang Inspiring Meetings x Visit Malaysia 2026,” at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) on 24 November 2025. The event, fully hosted by PWCC, underscored the venue’s strong support and partnership in promoting Penang as a premier destination for business events. This campaign aims to elevate Penang’s status as a leading hub for conferences, incentive groups, and other business gatherings, while aligning with the national Visit Malaysia 2026 initiative to attract international visitors and showcase the state’s unique offerings.

    Through the “Penang Inspiring Meetings” campaign, PCEB seeks to highlight Penang’s vibrant business events ecosystem spanning both the island and mainland. CEO of PCEB, Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, emphasized that the initiative reflects Penang’s readiness to welcome the world and aims to create meaningful connections while generating sustainable impact. “We aim to elevate Penang’s reputation not only as a premier meetings and incentives destination but also as a hub where meaningful connections and sustainable impact are created,” he said.

    A key element of the campaign is its focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. PCEB has chosen to spotlight the Penang Turtle Sanctuary in Pantai Kerachut, highlighting turtle conservation efforts as a symbol of endurance, balance, and harmony with nature. The turtle represents values that resonate with PCEB’s commitment to developing the business events industry responsibly. “This collaboration demonstrates how business events can deliver not just economic benefits but also positive contributions to Penang’s environment and community,” added Ashwin, underlining the bureau’s dedication to blending economic growth with environmental stewardship.

    Looking ahead, PCEB plans to expand its support to new sectors in 2026, fostering diverse, high-impact business events that align with Penang’s vision for sustainable and inclusive growth. This includes implementing enhanced mechanisms for meetings, conferences, and exhibitions that encourage innovation, knowledge exchange, and social responsibility. By doing so, PCEB seeks to create an ecosystem where business events not only stimulate the local economy but also contribute to community development and environmental conservation.

    The launch of Penang Inspiring Meetings x Visit Malaysia 2026 reaffirms PCEB’s mission to position Penang as Malaysia’s leading hub for high-value, high-impact business events. Through strategic initiatives, sustainability-focused programs, and collaboration with key stakeholders like PWCC, PCEB continues to drive Penang’s economic growth while promoting a responsible and inclusive approach to the development of the state’s business events industry. With the campaign, Penang is set to welcome international business visitors with world-class facilities, culturally rich experiences, and a commitment to leaving a positive legacy for both the community and the environment.

  • CHAGEE has become the first freshly brewed tea chain in Malaysia to receive recognition under the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP).

    CHAGEE has become the first freshly brewed tea chain in Malaysia to receive recognition under the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP).

    CHAGEE Malaysia has marked a significant milestone by officially earning the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP) logo for selected beverages, becoming the first freshly prepared beverage tea chain in the country to receive this prestigious recognition. This achievement underscores CHAGEE’s commitment to providing Malaysians with better beverage choices while preserving the brand’s hallmark quality, craftsmanship, and authentic tea culture.

    The HDP logo, introduced by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) under the broader Healthier Choice Logo (HCL) initiative, helps consumers easily identify freshly prepared beverages that meet strict nutrient criteria aligned with the nation’s dietary guidelines. As an extension of the HCL framework, the Healthier Dining Programme expands its focus to include both freshly prepared foods and beverages, setting nutrient-based benchmarks that encourage healthier dining habits across the country. Being awarded the HDP certification affirms CHAGEE’s efforts in crafting beverages that not only taste exceptional but also align with health-conscious standards.

    The certification covers CHAGEE’s full range of milk teas that meet HDP nutrient requirements, as well as most of its brewed teas that fall within the approved nutrient thresholds. These beverages were evaluated against criteria that include maintaining sugar content at 5 grams per 100 milliliters or less—an important guideline that supports healthier beverage consumption. In acknowledging the achievement, the HDP Secretariat commended CHAGEE’s successful efforts in meeting the required nutrient standards and contributing to the availability of healthier options for Malaysians.

    CHAGEE’s HDP-certified beverages reflect the brand’s dedication to responsible formulation and meticulous craftsmanship. Central to this approach is CHAGEE’s “Three Zeroes” philosophy—zero artificial flavoring in tea bases, zero artificial sweeteners, and zero trans-fat—which guides the brand’s product development across the region. Drinks that meet HDP criteria will now carry the HDP logo, while other beverages with richer profiles will continue to be offered, ensuring variety without compromising transparency. Clear labels in-store and across digital platforms will help customers easily identify which drinks are certified and make informed choices.

    To further support consumer awareness, CHAGEE recently introduced a Calorie Calculator feature on its mobile app, enabling customers to view estimated calorie information for their beverages before placing an order. This enhancement aligns with CHAGEE’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and empower customers to make mindful decisions.

    Jonathan Ng, Director for Government and Public Affairs at CHAGEE APAC, described the certification as a meaningful achievement for the brand. “Earning the HDP logo is an important milestone for CHAGEE Malaysia. It reflects our belief that great tea can bring joy while also supporting well-being. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with MOH to provide healthier options of freshly prepared beverages in the market, and we hope this achievement encourages more brands to innovate and offer healthier, more transparent options,” he said.

    The attainment of the HDP logo strengthens CHAGEE’s role in contributing to Malaysia’s broader public health goals. Moving forward, the brand remains committed to responsible beverage innovation and will continue exploring ways to develop products that balance enjoyment with mindful choices. By offering high-quality beverages that cater to diverse preferences, CHAGEE aims to support healthier lifestyles for all Malaysians while continuing to elevate the nation’s modern tea culture.

  • YTL Cement Group Expands Sustainability Credentials with Portfolio-Wide EPD Achievements

    YTL Cement Group Expands Sustainability Credentials with Portfolio-Wide EPD Achievements

    YTL Cement Group (YTL Cement) has solidified its position as a sustainability leader in Malaysia by becoming the first cement and precast producer in the country to obtain Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) across its ECOCem®, ECOConcrete™ and precast product ranges. This landmark achievement underscores the Group’s dedication to delivering sustainable, high-performance building solutions and accelerating the nation’s journey towards low-carbon construction. Widely recognized in global green building practices, an EPD is a third-party verified document that discloses a product’s environmental impact throughout its life cycle based on international standards such as ISO 14025 and the ISO 14040 series. These declarations play a crucial role in helping architects, contractors, and developers make informed choices that support sustainability goals and certification requirements.

    Among the newly certified products is Castle Cement, a Singapore Green Label certified cement formulated for bricklaying, screeding, and concreting. The certification also includes ECOConcrete™ Grade 40 and Grade 35, engineered to significantly reduce embodied carbon while maintaining strength, durability and performance. YTL Cement’s precast subsidiary, Eastern Pretech, has made history as well, becoming the first in Malaysia to obtain EPDs for precast concrete solutions including hollow core slabs, beams, planks, and double tee slabs. These certifications represent a major step forward for the Malaysian construction sector, setting new benchmarks for transparency, accountability, and environmental stewardship.

    This milestone builds on YTL Cement’s longstanding efforts to decarbonise the construction value chain. The Group pioneered Malaysia’s ECO range—which includes ECOCem®, ECOConcrete™, ECOSand™ and ECODrymix™—and continues to collaborate closely with CREAM, the research arm of CIDB Malaysia, to advance sustainable construction methodologies. Through its Construction Development Laboratory (CDL), YTL Cement drives innovation in low-carbon building materials, while its CDL Academy facilitates industry training and awareness. Together, these initiatives have already equipped more than 10,000 professionals and students with knowledge and skills in sustainability and construction innovation.

    Rachel Yeoh, Executive Director of YTL Cement, emphasised the significance of this achievement, stating that the EPD certifications mark a crucial step in the Group’s mission to deliver environmentally responsible construction solutions. “It underscores our commitment to innovation and efforts to provide low-carbon building materials and solutions that empower our customers to build more sustainably,” she said. By offering EPD-certified products, YTL Cement enhances transparency for customers and reinforces its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility. As Malaysia continues to pursue its carbon-neutral aspirations, the Group aims to further strengthen collaboration with regulators, industry bodies, and research partners to drive sustainable construction practices nationwide.

  • Amelia Roziman Makes History as the First Asian to Be Appointed as a Trustee of The Iceberg

    Amelia Roziman Makes History as the First Asian to Be Appointed as a Trustee of The Iceberg

    Amelia Roziman, Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Asian and the only Malaysian appointed as a Trustee of The Iceberg, a leading global authority dedicated to championing the legacy impact of business and professional events. Her appointment not only strengthens Asia’s representation in the global conversation on legacy-driven business events but also reinforces the region’s growing influence in shaping sustainable impacts for communities, economies, and the environment. This honour follows closely after Amelia received The Iceberg Excellence Award on 2 October 2025, further cementing her as one of the most influential voices in the international business events arena.

    In expressing her gratitude, Amelia described the role as both a personal achievement and a collective milestone for Asia’s business events community. She emphasised that The Iceberg’s mission aligns seamlessly with Sarawak’s long-term vision and her own dedication to creating meaningful, measurable legacies through business events. With nearly two decades of leadership experience, she has consistently advocated for the transformative potential of business events, highlighting their ability to generate real social, economic, and environmental impact. Amelia noted that she intends to continue championing Asia’s growth by drawing from Sarawak’s success and the values cultivated within its business events ecosystem.

    Founder of The Iceberg, James Latham, praised Amelia’s appointment, describing her as an exceptional addition to the Board. He underscored that The Iceberg is built upon inclusivity and global representation—qualities Amelia embodies through her leadership in advancing legacy-driven business events. Latham also noted her strong government-backed efforts in elevating the industry beyond its traditional role as a visitor economy driver, positioning her contributions as invaluable not only to Sarawak and Malaysia but to the global community.

    Amelia’s influence in the industry is well-established. Since 2006, she has played a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s business events landscape, leading Sarawak to win 29 destination marketing awards and earning 10 professional accolades. Among her most notable achievements is becoming the first Asian woman inducted into the prestigious Events Industry Council (EIC) Hall of Leaders in 2023. As she steps into her new role, she joins a distinguished Board of Trustees—including Caroline MacKenzie, James Latham, Martin Sirk, Sarah Fleming, Ben Hainsworth, Geneviève Leclerc, Oscar Cerezales, and Gregg Talley—who collectively guide The Iceberg’s development as a charitable trust and oversee its governance and strategic direction.

    Amelia’s appointment marks a significant moment for Asia’s business events community, underscoring the region’s growing leadership on the global stage and reaffirming Sarawak’s position as a progressive, legacy-driven destination.