MalaysianUpdates

Category: Innovation

  • Samsung Brings Sleep Apnea Detection to Malaysia with Galaxy Watch Series

    Samsung Brings Sleep Apnea Detection to Malaysia with Galaxy Watch Series

    Samsung has officially announced the availability of its Sleep Apnea feature in Malaysia, now accessible through the Samsung Health Monitor app on the Galaxy Watch series. This innovative addition marks another step forward in Samsung’s mission to empower users with advanced health-tracking tools that contribute to overall well-being.

    The introduction of the Sleep Apnea feature in Malaysia follows the receipt of the Medical Device Registration Certificate from the Medical Device Authority (MDA), a certification that underscores Samsung’s compliance with the nation’s strict health, safety, and environmental protection standards. This recognition not only solidifies Samsung’s leadership in sleep technology but also reflects the company’s dedication to improving user health through scientific and medically approved innovations. In addition to Malaysia, the feature has also received approval from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration and Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority, further validating its global reliability and accuracy.

    This achievement builds upon Samsung’s earlier milestone when the company received De Novo authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It was the first time a wearable device had been authorized to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, positioning Samsung as a trailblazer in the field of wearable health technology. The feature has also gained approval from Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Brazil’s health regulatory agency ANVISA, and Health Canada, signifying its international acceptance and compliance with global medical standards.

    Sleep plays a vital role in maintaining physical and mental health, and Samsung continues to prioritize this aspect through its ecosystem of connected devices and digital wellness features. By introducing the Sleep Apnea function, Samsung enables users to identify potential symptoms of this common yet often undiagnosed condition early on. This early detection can help prevent more serious health complications linked to sleep apnea, such as cardiovascular issues and fatigue-related risks.

    Samsung’s approach to sleep health goes beyond simple monitoring. The company provides users with comprehensive insights into their sleep patterns, personalized coaching, and recommendations for optimizing their sleep environment. The addition of the Sleep Apnea feature further enhances this ecosystem, giving users a more complete understanding of their sleep quality and encouraging proactive steps toward better rest and overall health.

    In celebration of this milestone, Samsung is offering limited-time rebates and promotions on the Galaxy Watch Series until 31 October. Customers can enjoy up to 30% off selected watch bands and enhanced trade-in deals worth up to RM250. The promotion covers a wide range of models, including the Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 Classic, and the latest Galaxy Watch Ultra. Those who purchase the Galaxy Watch Ultra will also receive exclusive gifts such as a Galaxy SmartTag2 worth RM149, a 15W power adapter, and a 10,000mAh battery pack, adding even greater value to the purchase.

    The new Sleep Apnea feature reinforces Samsung’s commitment to delivering meaningful innovations that make a difference in people’s daily lives. By expanding access to this FDA-authorized technology, Samsung empowers users around the world to take control of their sleep health and make informed choices for a healthier future.

    For more information or to purchase the latest Galaxy Watch models, visit Samsung Malaysia’s official website at Samsung Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 Classic, or Galaxy Watch Ultra.

  • Silver Jubilee Gala Marks 25 Years of Innovation, Recognises Adam Ham’s ASEAN Impact

    Silver Jubilee Gala Marks 25 Years of Innovation, Recognises Adam Ham’s ASEAN Impact

    It was a night of glamour, gratitude, and creative energy as some of Malaysia’s biggest names from the entertainment and media world gathered to celebrate a man whose influence continues to shape the nation’s creative landscape, Adam Ham. The grand gala marked not only Ham’s 25th year of championing Malaysia’s creative economy but also his 50th birthday, making the evening a double celebration of legacy and life. The star-studded event was both heartfelt and dynamic, mirroring Ham’s own journey as one of the country’s most connected and passionate creative figures.

    Held jointly at Laut and The Fishermen’s Club in Mont Kiara Meridin, the celebration brought together more than 300 distinguished guests, including VIPs, celebrities, industry leaders, and members of the media. Themed “Nightmare on Adam’s Street,” the event radiated a bold sense of personality and playfulness, with lively performances, music, and an atmosphere of camaraderie that underscored Ham’s long-standing role as a connector across diverse communities. The evening was officially graced by Dato’ Sri Arthur Joseph Kurup, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, and held under the patronage of Dato’ Kamil Othman, former chairman of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).

    A highlight of the night was Ham’s special recognition by ASEAN Records as the region’s most connected entrepreneur in the creative media and entertainment sectors across Southeast Asia. The official record title, “Largest Collection of Creative Media & Entertainment Contacts in a Single Mobile Directory by One Individual,” aptly reflected his extraordinary ability to build and sustain relationships across borders.

    The event also saw the presence of beloved stars including Diana Danielle, Ruhainies, Elizabeth Tan, and Amelia Henderson, who joined Ham for a shared birthday celebration that added a personal touch to the festivities. Supported by more than 70 corporate sponsors and partners such as Gintell, Vivo, OneCare Wellness, VitaHealth, and Kinohimitsu, the evening was a showcase of unity between the creative and corporate worlds, a synergy that Ham has long advocated for throughout his career.

    In his speech, Dato’ Sri Arthur Joseph Kurup commended Ham for his resilience and vision, saying that Adam represents the kind of creative adaptability that Malaysia is proud of. Even in the toughest times, he found ways to keep the industry moving and people employed. His work embodies the spirit of innovation that drives Malaysia’s creative economy forward.

    Adam Ham’s journey began in 2000 with a firm belief in what he calls “Clevonomic opportunities,” creative ventures designed to create real value and global impact for Malaysian talent. After graduating from Western Michigan University, he began his career at the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, managing innovation funds before joining the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, then known as the Multimedia Development Corporation. Under the mentorship of Dato’ Kamil Othman, Ham played a key role in promoting iconic Malaysian titles such as Upin & Ipin, Bola Kampung, Pontianak Harum Sundal Malam, and Legenda Budak Setan at major international festivals, securing co-productions, distribution deals, and putting Malaysia on the global map as a filming destination.

    His subsequent tenure at FINAS further solidified his reputation as a creative economy specialist. There, he worked tirelessly to elevate Malaysian films and music at international markets and festivals including NATPE Budapest, formerly known as DISCOP, Sundance, the American Film Market, Marché du Film in Cannes, the Busan International Film Festival, and the MIDEM Music Festival. In 2011, Ham took a bold leap by founding the Global Creative & Media Agency, a platform dedicated to connecting Malaysia’s creative industries with global partners and audiences.

    When the pandemic brought the global entertainment industry to a halt, Ham once again proved his adaptability by pivoting towards new opportunities. Rather than waiting for international events to return, he bridged the gap between entertainment and retail, pairing celebrities with brands for commercials, endorsements, and live campaigns that helped sustain both industries during an uncertain period. His deep-rooted commitment to Malaysia and its creative community remained at the heart of everything he did, driving him to build connections that would uplift others and foster shared success.

    Reflecting on his evolution, Dato’ Kamil Othman shared that he had watched Adam grow from a young industry executive into a regional connector who never stops building bridges. His passion for linking Malaysia with the world has opened doors for countless creators and entrepreneurs. He truly understands that the creative industry is about people, relationships, and shared growth.

    The ASEAN Records recognition is a testament to Ham’s network, which now exceeds 25,000 contacts across the region. Speaking about the honour, Ham said that working across government and private sectors taught him that relationships and trust are everything. Malaysia’s creative community has always been about lifting each other up, and that is what keeps him going.

    As he looks toward the future, Adam Ham remains steadfast in his mission to expand regional collaborations, strengthen Malaysia’s creative footprint, and inspire the next generation of industry leaders. His goal is to keep building regional connections, expand creative reach, and leave behind a legacy that empowers others to dream bigger.

    The grand celebration was more than just an acknowledgment of a career. It was a tribute to two and a half decades of vision, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Through every milestone and challenge, Adam Ham continues to embody the spirit of Malaysia’s creative evolution, a testament to how one individual’s passion can unite an entire industry and inspire a nation.

  • FSF Xcel Launch Marks New Era in Financial Talent Development, Led by AICB

    FSF Xcel Launch Marks New Era in Financial Talent Development, Led by AICB

    The Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB) has officially launched FSF Xcel, Malaysia’s first industry-wide digital skills assessment platform for the financial sector. Introduced on 13 October 2025, the initiative marks a major milestone in benchmarking workforce capabilities and accelerating upskilling across the industry, in line with Malaysia’s vision for a more adaptive, sustainable, and future-ready financial ecosystem.

    Building on the success of the Future Skills Framework (FSF) introduced in 2024, FSF Xcel operationalises the framework through structured, industry-validated assessments that help financial institutions identify skill gaps, design learning pathways, and strengthen talent strategies. Covering 159 job roles and 157 critical skills, the platform assesses both technical capabilities and behavioural competencies essential for a modern financial workforce. Developed in collaboration with Accendo Technologies, a Malaysian AI-powered talent intelligence company and the official delivery partner of FSF Xcel, the platform combines global best practices with local insights to enhance Malaysia’s financial talent pipeline.

    The financial sector remains a key pillar of Malaysia’s economy, contributing approximately 6.7% to the nation’s GDP in 2024 and employing nearly 167,000 professionals. In alignment with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Sector Blueprint 2022–2026, FSF Xcel supports the transition towards a digitally fluent and innovation-driven workforce one that embraces data, agility, and lifelong learning. The platform’s real-time analytics provide financial institutions with a unified competency language to guide workforce planning, benchmark performance, and nurture professional development. This collective approach strengthens Malaysia’s position as a leader in developing future-ready financial talent for the digital economy.

    According to Edward Ling, Chief Executive of AICB, FSF Xcel represents more than a technological advancement; it is a catalyst for transformation within the financial industry. He said, “FSF Xcel is more than a skills assessment platform, it is a catalyst for transformation. By equipping both employees and employers with data-driven insights to identify, measure, and strengthen their capabilities, it fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional excellence. Developed for the industry, with the industry, FSF Xcel reflects our shared commitment to building a resilient, competitive, and future-ready financial workforce.”

    YBhg. Datuk Dr Yvonne Chia, FCB, Chairperson of the MyMAHIR Future Skills Talent Council – Financial Sector and AICB Council Member, shared similar sentiments. “In a world where nearly 40% of today’s skill sets are expected to evolve or become obsolete by 2030, FSF Xcel empowers financial institutions to respond with agility and foresight. It reinforces Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for skilled, versatile, and innovative financial professionals,” she said.

    From the perspective of technology collaboration, Sharma Lachu, Founder and CEO of Accendo Technologies, emphasised the power of partnership in driving transformation. “FSF Xcel proves that vision can be translated into action. We are confident that Accendo’s partnership with AICB will drive the impetus for an industry-wide Digital Talent Passport, allowing individuals and organisations to thrive in this ever-changing world,” he said.

    The launch of FSF Xcel is backed by findings from AICB’s 2025 Workforce Baseline Study, which saw a 68% response rate from 99 financial institutions nationwide. The study revealed that 96% of respondents expressed strong interest in adopting a standardised digital assessment platform aligned with the FSF to close skill gaps and enhance workforce readiness. It also found that approximately 40,000 employees are expected to see their roles evolve due to automation, underscoring the growing urgency for targeted upskilling and reskilling initiatives across the sector.

    These insights reflect global trends highlighted in the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, which projects that 39% of current skill sets will become obsolete by 2030 and identifies skill gaps as one of the most significant barriers to business transformation in Malaysia.

    FSF Xcel will be rolled out progressively across financial institutions starting in the fourth quarter of 2025. AICB will continue to work closely with Bank Negara Malaysia, Accendo Technologies, industry associations, and learning partners to ensure smooth adoption and implementation. Through this collaborative effort, Malaysia’s financial sector is set to take a decisive step forward in cultivating a skilled, future-ready workforce equipped to lead in an evolving global economy.

  • Huawei Malaysia Partners with OpenRe to Power Malaysia’s Future with Battery Energy Storage Solutions

    Huawei Malaysia Partners with OpenRe to Power Malaysia’s Future with Battery Energy Storage Solutions

    Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Huawei Malaysia) and Open Re Sdn Bhd (OpenRE) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI)-integrated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) solutions in Malaysia. The partnership aims to address the nation’s increasing energy demand and support its renewable energy goals by providing sustainable and intelligent energy management systems for businesses and industries.

    The collaboration focuses on delivering advanced BESS solutions to help manage Maximum Demand (MD) scenarios, which occur during peak electricity consumption periods when power usage and costs are at their highest. Through this partnership, Huawei Malaysia and OpenRE intend to establish a sustainable, AI-driven BESS ecosystem that enables commercial and industrial users to enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and contribute to the nation’s decarbonisation agenda and sustainable growth.

    Chief Executive Officer of OpenRE, Dr. Lin Horng Sheng, described the partnership as a major step forward in Malaysia’s pursuit of intelligent energy management. He emphasised that combining Huawei’s world-class BESS hardware with OpenRE’s proprietary AI Energy Demand Response (AIE-DR) technology will enable industries to achieve greater efficiency, manage peak demand more effectively, and progress towards carbon-neutral operations. He added that the collaboration is a vital step in building a sustainable energy ecosystem that empowers local industries to thrive during the clean energy transition.

    Vice President of Huawei Malaysia, Digital Power Business, Chong Chern Peng, said that Malaysia’s energy transition depends on the seamless integration of digital technologies and clean power systems. He highlighted that through this partnership, Huawei and OpenRE aim to strengthen the country’s energy-storage value chain and expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy management solutions for a wide range of industries.

    As the technology enabler, Huawei Malaysia will leverage its global expertise and innovation in product manufacturing, technical knowledge, and market supply, delivering its advanced Smart PV and BESS technologies. OpenRE will complement these efforts with its Energy Management System (EMS) AI software, providing technical and business support to end-users to ensure efficient and intelligent energy utilisation.

    Under the terms of the MoU, both companies will collaborate to build a sustainable ecosystem that captures new market opportunities while delivering end-to-end energy management solutions tailored for key industrial sectors. This cooperation is aligned with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which identifies energy storage as a critical enabler in achieving the country’s carbon-neutral target by 2050. The Huawei Malaysia-OpenRE partnership reinforces this vision by empowering industries with energy storage solutions that improve grid flexibility, reliability, and renewable energy integration.

    The signing ceremony took place during the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, held from 15 to 17 October. The MoU was signed by Dr. Teoh Boon Yew, General Manager (Business Development) of OpenRE, and Chong Chern Peng, Vice President of Huawei Malaysia, Digital Power Business. The event was witnessed by Malaysian Green Tech & Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) Board Members YBhg. Dato’ Leong Kin Mun and YBrs. Tuan Haji Ismail bin Mohd Amin, along with Dr. Chong Lee Wai, Chief Technology Officer of OpenRE, and Zhang Xiaoming, Director of Smart PV and ESS, Digital Power Business, Huawei Malaysia.