Sabah is poised to become a hub for technological advancement by actively nuturing innovation, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

He stated that the integration of technology and innovation is crucial for economic development.

Speaking at the launching of “Supercharger Sabah 2024” at the Islamic Center, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) on Tuesday, Hajiji emphasised that Sabah is committed to developing a future-oriented economy through innovation.

“In our efforts to propel the state forward, the state government has crafted a clear vision to ensure Sabah becomes a dynamic and competitive innovation hub in the region.

“An example of this effort is the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) framework, which focuses on three main pillars: the Agriculture, Industry and Tourism sectors; Human Capital and People’s Well-being; and Infrastructure Networks and Green Sustainability,” he said.

Hajiji highlighted that in the agriculture sector, the federal government allocated over RM33 million to Sabah in July to enhance food security. This funding is vital for optimizing land use to boost agro-food production.

“Initiatives like the Supercharger series, which emphasises food security, are essential to reducing our reliance on food imports. Therefore, in line with the National Food Security Policy, Sabah aims to improve self-sufficiency in food by promoting innovation in crop production, livestock and fisheries,” he added.

Hajiji also said that Sabah should empower modern technology in agriculture, such as smart farming and automation/mechanisation, to enhance yield and product quality, not only for productivity but also to ensure sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

He noted that UMS has conducted various activities to assist industries and communities in Sabah through the commercialisation of their innovations and knowledge transfer.

“Notably, pioneering research such as ‘hybrid grouper’ and ‘monkey malaria,’ among others, has been carried out. The selection of the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI) UMS as a Higher Education Centre of Excellence (HiCOE) by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia is a point of pride for the people of Sabah and a testament to UMS’s excellent research and innovation,” he added.

Hajiji also mentioned that UMS has established a comprehensive ecosystem to strengthen research and innovation through the creation of four research clusters: Engineering and Technology; Medicine and Life Sciences; Environment and Applied Sciences; and Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities.

He noted that the establishment of the Innovation and Commercialization Management Center (ICMC) in 2021 has acted as a catalyst in facilitating UMS lecturers to commercialize their innovations.

On the Supercharger Series 2024 programme, Hajiji said it is a strategic initiative designed specifically to drive collaboration, engagement, and knowledge sharing within the Research, Development, Commercialisation, and Innovation (R&D&C&I) ecosystem.

According to him, the programme allows university spin-off companies, researchers, private sector entities, and agencies to collaborate, learn and address challenges together.

During the event, Hajiji witnessed the exchange of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between UMS Vice Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kassim Md Mansur and the Chief Executive Officer of Technology Innovation Park Malaysia (TIPM/MRANTI), Datuk Wira Dr Rais Hussin Mohamed Ariff.

Source: Borneo Post

Sabah ready to become a technology advancement hub

The information and communication technology (ICT) and e-commerce industries generated RM427.7 billion in 2023, contributing 23.5% to Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP), compared to 22.9% or RM411.6 billion in 2022, said Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin said.

He said ICT and e-commerce grew by 3.9% in 2023, compared to 14.3% in the previous year.

“The ICT and e-commerce industries comprise the gross value added of the ICT industry (GVAICT), which contributed 13.8%, and 9.6% from e-commerce in non-ICT industries,” Mohd Uzir said. The GVAICT of RM252 billion recorded a growth of 3.8%, compared to 11.4% in the previous year, supported by ICT services contributing 41.6%.

“This was followed by ICT manufacturing, ICT trade, and content and media, which contributed 38.2%, 14.2%, and 6%, respectively. The GVA of e-commerce totalled RM248.2 billion, with a slower growth of 3.7% compared to 19.2% in the previous year. E-commerce’s contribution to GDP stood at 13.6%, with the manufacturing sector remaining the primary contributor at 51.8%, followed by the services sector at 45.2%. The remaining contributions came from the mining & quarrying, agriculture, and construction sectors,” he said.

ICT product exports contributed 34.5% to Malaysia’s exports, amounting to RM430.7 billion in 2023, dominated by ICT goods, which contributed 90.9%.

“Meanwhile, imports of ICT products accounted for 23.4% of the country’s imports, valued at RM270.7 billion, with ICT goods contributing 84.3%. Overall, the net export of ICT products recorded a surplus of RM160.0 billion in 2023,” Mohd Uzir said.

In terms of the labour force, employment in the ICT industry increased by 1.6% to 1.24 million people in 2023, accounting for 7.8% of total employment in Malaysia. This employment was dominated by ICT manufacturing, at 35.6%, followed by ICT services and ICT trade, contributing 29.2% and 22.4%, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM) has released the Information and Communication Technology Satellite Account 2023 statistics.

The satellite account is a statistical framework for measuring the performance of the ICT industry, including e-commerce and its contribution to GDP, the export and import of ICT products, and employment in the ICT industry.

DoSM has also launched OpenDOSM NextGen, a medium that provides data catalogues and visualisation tools to facilitate user analysis of various data.

The government has declared Oct 20 as National Statistics Day (MyStats Day). The theme for MyStats Day is ‘Statistics: The Pulse of Life’. DOSM is celebrating its 75th Diamond Jubilee anniversary in 2024.

Source: The Sun

ICT, e-commerce generated RM427.7b in 2023, contributing 23.5% to Malaysia’s GDP

Malaysia is quickly becoming one of the sought-after destinations for data centres, with tech giants pouring billions into the country to establish cutting-edge digital infrastructure.

As the world becomes more dependent on cloud services, streaming, and e-commerce, Malaysia’s unique advantages are positioning it as a regional powerhouse. But what exactly are data centres, and why is Malaysia attracting so much interest?

What’s the big deal about data centres?

Ever wondered how you can store thousands of photos on your phone or stream movies in high-definition quality? That’s all thanks to data centres.

These facilities are the unseen engines behind digital lives, housing countless servers that store and process data at all times.

How does it work?

As technology advanced, equipment became smaller and more affordable, while the demand for data processing surged dramatically. To handle this growing need, multiple servers are networked together to boost computing power.

These servers are connected to communication networks, allowing remote access to the data or services they host. When large groups of these servers and related equipment are housed in a dedicated space, such as a room, building, or even a campus, it forms what we now call a data centre.

Modern data centres often contain thousands of compact, high-performance servers running continuously. Due to the sheer number of servers stacked in rows and racks, these facilities are sometimes referred to as server farms.

They provide crucial services, including data storage, backup and recovery and data management.

Additionally, data centres enable everything from hosting websites and powering email services to supporting cloud applications, handling e-commerce transactions and driving online gaming platforms — all tasks that require significant data processing.

Different types of data centres

• Enterprise data centres: These are owned by large companies that need tight control over their data, like banks or tech firms.
• Colocation data centres: It functions as shared spaces where businesses rent sections to store their own servers, reducing the cost of building a dedicated facility.
• Cloud data centres: These are operated by major providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, enabling businesses to store data and access services over the internet without needing physical servers.
• Edge data centres: Smaller facilities placed close to users to make services faster and more responsive, perfect for things like video streaming and gaming.

Why is Malaysia a strategic location for data centres?

Data centres need significant amounts of space, energy, and water for cooling. As a result, emerging markets like Malaysia, which offer affordable energy and land, have an edge over smaller city-states such as Hong Kong and Singapore, where these resources are more constrained.

Lower costs

While Singapore has been a major data centre hub for years, the high cost of land and operations there has many companies turning to Malaysia as a more affordable alternative. For example, Johor is just across the border from Singapore, and offers similar advantages at a fraction of the price.

Stable power supply and sustainability focus

Data centres are incredibly energy-intensive, and Malaysia has a reliable and affordable energy infrastructure. Additionally, many data centres in the country are transitioning towards using renewable energy, aligning with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of digital infrastructure.

Government support

The government has rolled out the red carpet for tech companies, offering tax incentives and grants to attract investment. The Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint sets ambitious goals for the country to become a digital economy leader by 2030, and data centres are at the heart of this transformation.

While the expansion of data centres offers significant economic benefits, it also raises concerns about energy use and environmental impact.

To ensure the long-term resilience and success of its data centre industry, Malaysia must focus on several key areas such as :-

• Cybersecurity: As data centres store vast amounts of sensitive information, they are prime targets for cyberattacks. Strong cybersecurity measures, including advanced threat detection, intrusion prevention, and data encryption, are vital to protect data and maintain customer trust.
• Talent Development: The industry requires a highly skilled workforce, particularly in fields such as network engineering, cybersecurity, and data centre management. Investment in education and training is essential to build the talent pool needed to meet increasing demand.
• Regional Collaboration: Collaborating with neighbouring countries on data centre development, connectivity, and cybersecurity can create a more integrated and resilient regional data centre ecosystem.

It was also reported that Johor Baru has been recognised as the fastest-growing data centre market in South-east Asia, according to DC Byte’s 2024 Global Data Centre Index.

The city currently boasts a total data centre capacity of 1.6 gigawatts, which includes ongoing projects and those in the planning stages.

Data centre capacity is typically measured by the amount of electricity consumed and if all planned capacities in Asia come online, Malaysia will be ranked just behind Japan and India, with Japan and Singapore currently leading the region in live data centre capacity.

Who’s investing in data centres in Malaysia?

Google

Investment amount: RM9.4 billion (approximately US$2 billion)

Location: Kuala Lumpur, specifically in the Sime Darby Elmina Business Park

Completion timeline: Unknown

Nvidia

Investment amount: RM20.24 billion (approximately US$4.3 billion)

Location: Southern state of Johor.

Completion timeline: Exact operational date not specified, but the first phase is expected to be operational by mid-2024

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Investment amount: RM29.22 billion (approximately US$6.2 billion)

Location: Unknown

Completion timeline: Unknown

Microsoft

Investment amount: RM10.37 billion (approximately US$2.2 billion)

Location: Unknown

Completion timeline: Unknown

On Thursday (October 10), it has been reported that the Cabinet approved the Data Centre Planning Guidelines (GPP) created by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) through the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia).

KPKT Minister Nga Kor Ming saidthat these guidelines aim to standardise and streamline the application and planning approval processes for stakeholders involved.

He also noted that the guidelines support the initiative to enhance business operations, complement the overall ecosystem of the data centre industry, and provide a reference point for those engaged in data centre development.

Source: Malay Mail

What are data centres, and how come Malaysia is able to attract billions in tech investments for them?

Malaysia’s private healthcare and health tourism sector is expected to generate US$526 million (RM2.26 billion) in revenue this year, contributing an economic spillover of US$2.1 billion to other industries, according to Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade).

Matrade deputy director Abdul Halim Mohamed Shariff said that Malaysia’s prominence in medical tourism is underscored by medical treatments, trained healthcare professionals and economic costs.

“Healthcare tourism is one of the strongest segments within the healthcare industry. As you can see, we have hospitals like IHH, where revenue has reached up to US$3.9 million,” he said in his presentation on “The Business Opportunities of the Healthcare Sector in Southeast Asia” at a press conference on International Healthcare Week 2025 (IHW 2025) today.

Meanwhile, Abdul Halim said Malaysia’s medical device market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2023 to 2028, reaching a value of US$3.64 billion by 2028. Additionally, the consumables segment in the market is projected to expand at a higher CAGR of 10.2% over the same period, reaching US$986 million by 2028.

Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican stated that Malaysia’s healthcare sector is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing life expectancy, technological advancements, and the rising need for treatment of chronic diseases.

“This optimistic outlook aligns with the projected expansion of this global industry which is expected to soar by 63% from RM2.53 trillion in 2024 to RM4.13 trillion by 2032. This significant growth presents exciting opportunities for Malaysian companies to strengthen their position in the global healthcare landscape,” he said.

He said Malaysia is well-positioned to capitalise on this growth with strategic focus on medical devices and healthcare tourism. Substantial investments in this sector’s infrastructure has solidified Malaysia’s reputation as a leading healthcare destination.

Informa Markets regional portolio director for Asean Rungphech (Rose) Chitanuwat said that as the Asean region evolves, significant growth in the healthcare market is being propelled by rising wealth, demographic shifts, technological advancements, and changing consumer expectations. “These trends will shape the future of healthcare across Asean.”

She said that with populations becoming more affluent, there is an increasing demand for personalised care options that cater to specific health needs. The region is also witnessing a demographic shift towards an older population, leading to heightened demand for healthcare services focused on chronic disease management and elderly care.

“With a collective population of nearly 700 million and being the world’s fifth-largest economy, the Asean region is poised for significant growth and presents numerous opportunities for healthcare providers and investors alike,“ Rungphech said.

There is a growing trend toward creating integrated ecosystems that connect various healthcare services – hospitals, diagnostic centres, wellness clinics, and pharmacies-aiming to improve efficiency and patient experience. This includes an emphasis on integrated care models that encompass wellness, preventive care, and chronic disease management.

“Recognising the importance of a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem, IHW 2025 will feature three co-located events: CPHI Southeast Asia, Medlab Asia, and Asia Health. These events will showcase cutting-edge technologies, products, and services from leading companies in the pharmaceutical, medical laboratory, and medical device sectors. The exhibitions will bring together over 700 exhibitors, with an expected 16,000 attendees from 50 countries, and will feature 60 industry insight conferences.” noted Rungphech.

“This convergence integrates competition and cooperation, facilitating networking opportunities that can lead to collaborative projects and partnerships. Ultimately, this strengthens the healthcare ecosystem and fosters a more patient-centric approach,” she added.

IHW 2025 is set to take place from July 16 to 18, 2025, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur. The organisers – Matrade and Informa Markets – said the event will establish Malaysia as an emerging hub in the healthcare sector, not only within Asean but also on a global scale.

They said that it will also enhance Malaysia’s reputation as a prime destination for medical tourism, recognised for its quality and affordability, thereby increasing demand for advanced medical devices and pharmaceuticals.

Source: The Sun

Malaysian private healthcare, medical tourism sector to take in RM2.2 billion revenue this year

Japan’s Mitsubishi Power Ltd, part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group, is eyeing hydrogen power projects in Malaysia to support the country’s transition to green energy.

Mitsubishi Power Asia-Pacific managing director and CEO Akihiro Ondo said Malaysia’s potential for energy transition lies in replacing older power stations with more efficient technologies, such as gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) systems.

“To combine such renewable energy with a reliable baseload gas turbine combined cycle is important for energy security and sustainability in Malaysia. Therefore, we would like to be involved in this strategy for Malaysia by providing our technologies and solutions,” he told Sun Biz in an interview.

Furthermore, Ondo mentioned strong governmental support in Malaysia for energy transition initiatives.

“The Malaysian government has shown a strong commitment to energy transition. We have engaged in productive discussions with government-owned entities and agencies based on feasibility studies and other energy transition activities,” he said.

However, Ondo noted that deploying commercial-scale energy transition and decarbonisation programmes might be difficult for a single country. “We believe that intergovernmental arrangements involving Japan and other countries will be quite important. We would like to continue our dialogue with both the Malaysian government and the Japanese government.”

Ondo said their gas turbines and hydrogen production facilities can integrate with renewables to manage fluctuations in energy supply. “Malaysia has abundant resources for renewables, including hydropower in Sarawak, which can serve as a reliable baseload. We are in close communication with renewable energy providers and developers.”
Regarding competition in the hydrogen market, Ondo stressed collaboration over competition. “We are willing to work with potential partners in Sarawak to produce hydrogen based on renewable resources, which can be utilised for power generation or exported to Japan,” he said.

On the outlook for hydrogen fuels in Malaysia, Ondo expressed Mitsubishi Power’s commitment to validating and deploying technology for hydrogen and ammonia.

The company operates Takasago Hydrogen Park in western Japan, which features a gas turbine factory, a research and development centre, and a verification facility with a capacity of 550 megawatts – equivalent to the Miri-GTCC project in Malaysia.

By 2026, Mitsubishi Power plans to install four types of hydrogen production facilities at Takasago, enabling the production and storage of hydrogen on-site for use in gas turbine combined cycle systems.

The facility aims to validate technology for hydrogen combustion, with plans to increase hydrogen firing from 30% to 50% this year and eventually test 100% hydrogen firing in smaller-scale gas turbines.

“Our gas turbine, validated at Takasago, can currently fire 30% hydrogen. The commercial plant can initially operate with natural gas or LNG. Once the hydrogen supply chain is established, the plant can gradually increase hydrogen usage to achieve a complete transition,” Ondo said.

Since the 1960s, Mitsubishi Power has delivered several important power stations in Malaysia, including those in Pasir Gudang, Port Klang and Lumut, and has been involved in the construction of Tenaga Nasional Bhd’s (TNB) Tuanku Jaafar Power Station in Port Dickson.

“Recently, we secured the new GTCC project in Miri, Sarawak (in August). We will install high-efficiency and reliable technology capable of co-firing cleaner fuels like hydrogen, which is expected to be in commercial operation in 2027,” Ondo said.

He also mentioned that the company is pursuing a memorandum of understanding with TNB regarding energy transition to explore the application of cleaner fuels, carbon capture and other energy conservation measures.

Source: The Sun

Mitsubishi Power eyes hydrogen projects to support Malaysia’s transition to green energy

GREEN ECONOMY, aerospace and construction are among the key sectors that can address the shortage of high-skilled jobs in the country.

For example, the Human Resources Ministry (Kesuma) is focusing on the green economy, which International Labour Organisation (ILO) senior skills and employability specialist Akiko Sakamoto says to be one of the most significant sectors for developing new occupations.

Among the fastest-growing skilled jobs in the green economy globally are sustainability managers, ecologists, environmental health and safety specialists and solar consultants, according to data from LinkedIn.

Meanwhile, back in Malaysia, TalentCorp – which compiles the Critical Occupations List (MyCol) – found that some of the critical occupations in the green economy in the country include plantation managers, agricultural managers, geologists, occupational health and safety officers, waste management competence person and water technicians.

The Human Resource Ministry has recently pushed for the country’s green job market, organising a Green Jobs Fair along with training and a Green Jobs Forum with its Asean counterparts back in April.

The green economy also includes sectors such as the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) industry, which government efforts have heavily boosted.

Aside from the green economy, TalentCorp also noted in the MyCol 2022/2023 that the aerospace, construction and food processing industries also have a great demand for highly skilled workers, which opens up the potential to develop these industries for new areas of employment in the country.

From its engagements with industry stakeholders, it found that the key occupational group with the most demand for the aerospace, food processing and construction industries were the professional group – 71%, 69% and 58% respectively.

“This reflects the aerospace industry as a highly professional and specialised sector which requires highly skilled workers with strong technical expertise,” the report read.

The government has placed importance on this high-value aerospace industry starting from the 11th Malaysia Plan, emphasising the development of the industry, its supply chain and its competency through industry-led research and technology, according to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.

Putrajaya has also come up with the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030 to help drive the industry’s growth.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Employers’ Federation president Datuk Syed Hussain Syed Husman has listed some of Malaysia’s future high-skilled industries and jobs in demand:

i) Cybersecurity Specialist

The cybersecurity industry in Malaysia was forecasted to grow by 18.7% from an estimated RM3.9bil in 2021 to RM5.5bil in 2023. Malaysia has allocated RM60mil to CyberSecurity Malaysia to develop a 5G cybersecurity testing framework as part of the 2024 budget. Malaysia Digital Economic Blueprint (MyDigital) is targeting to produce 20,000 cyber security experts by 2025.

ii) AI & Data Science

The Industry4WRD spearheaded by MITI plays a critical role in promoting digitalisation across all sectors. Many of the fastest-growinga jobs and predicted future ones are driven by technology development, increased Internet connectivity, rapid globalisation and new business demands. Jobs like artificial intelligence specialists and data scientists are required across industries to help organisations and businesses be more efficient.

iii) Cloud Engineering

Malaysia’s Digital Economy Blueprint is also driving digital transformation in the public sector, with a target of achieving 80% utilisation of cloud computing storage. Fueled by digital transformation, increasing internet access, and smartphone adoption, the demand for robust data infrastructure has surged. The push towards remote services and cloud computing has further amplified the demand for Cloud engineers.

iv) Electrical & Electronics

E&E industries are expected to pick up in the coming years as global businesses capitalise on advancements in AI and automation, and begin demanding greater computing power. Malaysia remains a major player, cornering about 13% market share in global chip testing and assembly. Over the past year, a total of RM52bil in semiconductor investments have been secured, potentially creating 11,000 jobs in the sector.

v) Mechatronic and Robotics

Drones are widely used across industries and 3D modelling visualises building projects so workers can virtually check construction progress without going on-site. Robotics gain more interest as companies seek greater efficiencies while protecting the health and safety of their workers in dangerous environments.

vi) Digital Marketing

Digital marketing has become crucial for brands to reach prospective customers. The roles under this umbrella consist of digital marketing specialists responsible for creating marketing campaigns and reporting results; content creators for marketing purposes; video producers or graphic design artists for visual content and; search engine optimisation (SEO) specialists to ensure reachability.

vii) E-commerce

Malaysia’s e-commerce market has grown rapidly in recent years, fuelled by rising smartphone penetration and a willingness by shoppers to buy online. The e-commerce market in Malaysia is forecasted to grow at an annual growth rate of 24%. Experts in E-commerce are in great demand, as businesses seek to promote their products and build and enhance brand association and engagement channels with their customers via digital platforms.

viii) Renewable Energy and Green Technology

Malaysia is committed to green energy, aiming for approximately 40% of its power generation to come from renewable sources by 2035. Jobs in renewable energy, especially those requiring specialised skills, are expected to benefit from government investment, creating new high-skilled roles and driving up wages in this field.

ix) Financial Services and Fintech

The evolution of Malaysia’s financial services sector, especially in areas like fintech, will drive demand for high-quality skilled workers in financial technology, risk management, and data analytics. This sector is expected to offer substantial wage growth as it continues to innovate and expand.

Source: The Star

High-skilled jobs: Green and tech jobs are the way to go

The government expects more digital investments to flow into Malaysia in 2025, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. 

The minister said that as Malaysia chairs Asean in 2025, the country is well positioned to present itself as a destination for digital investments in the region. 

“I think we have seen an increase in confidence shown by global technology giants in Malaysia as being a destination for their investments.

“There are ongoing discussions with many other companies, and I anticipate moving ahead next year. We will see more investments, which augur very well for the country,” he said at a press conference after the launch of the Gamuda Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy here on Friday.

Gobind said the government is certain more investment announcements would be made after a series of new investments in the last eight months. 

Earlier, Malaysia welcomed investments of US$14.70 billion (RM63.02 billion) proposed by US technology giants such as Google, Microsoft, Enovix Corporation, Amazon Web Services, Abbott Laboratories, and Boeing.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim conveyed the matter during his bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th Asean Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Laos.

The prime minister said Malaysia looks forward to strengthening cooperation with the US in emerging industries.

Meanwhile, Gobind said the ministry is also looking forward to cooperating with the Ministry of Education to ensure AI awareness among students in the country. 

“We will cooperate with them (the Ministry of Education) to determine how we can ensure that we can bring AI awareness to all sectors, different groups, including students in this country,” he added.

Source: Bernama

Govt expects more digital investments in 2025, says Gobind

The 15th edition of the International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM) has generated over RM5 billion in potential business leads, representing tangible steps toward a greener future for Malaysia and the region, said Minister Of Natural Resources And Environmental Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

Speaking at the appreciation hi-tea ceremony to mark the closing of IGEM 2024 held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) here today, he said this year’s event had seen unprecedented participation, with over 58,414 visitors from 55 countries and 485 exhibition booths showcasing innovative solutions.

“We were privileged to host 50 international companies from Austria, Canada, Finland, and Sweden as part of a dedicated delegation.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our 13 programme partners and to our media partners and the green media network for being integral to the success of IGEM this year,” he said in his speech.

The minister said that the three-day event themed “Race Towards Net Zero; Regional Leadership for Climate Urgency” had received notable recognition, being awarded in the Malaysia Book of Records as the longest-running green technology exhibition.

The minister noted that the achievement reflected their unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable practices and the ministry’s dedication to the government agenda over the past 15 years to green technologies and sustainable solutions.

“This year, we introduced two new summits the Clean Energy TransitionAsia (CETA) Summit and the Mobility X Exhibition which showcased cutting-edge solutions and technologies.

“These events played a vital role in positioning Malaysia as a key player in the global shift towards clean energy and sustainable mobility innovation,” he added.

Nik Nazmi also said that as Malaysia prepared for participation at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the progress made at IGEM 2024 has fortified its commitment to climate action.

He said that the soft launch of Malaysia’s pavilion for COP29 signalled their readiness to engage in crucial global climate discussions, particularly on climate finance, loss and damage and achieving the climate targets.

“We have witnessed strong international interest in Malaysia’s green technology sector with investors and stakeholders drawn to our supportive policies and incentives.

“The memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and business leads established here at IGEM are a testament to Malaysia’s attractiveness as a destination for green investments,” he said.

Above all, he said IGEM 2024 has emphasized the importance of circular economy practices, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and waste is minimized with a commitment to sustainability in production and consumption will remain central to strive to integrate circularity into the industries and communities.

Source: Bernama

IGEM 2024 generates RM5b potential business – Nik Nazmi

Chinese company CRE International Co Ltd, a global leader in renewable energy, and InvestSarawak, an agency under the purview of the Sarawak International Trade, Industry and Investment Ministry, will jointly explore solar and other renewable energy projects in Sarawak.

The projects are for an estimated capacity of 2 gigawatts (GW).

This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding at the ministry, witnessed by Deputy Premier Datuk Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, today.

Under the MoU, CRE International and InvestSarawak will collaborate to identify suitable locations for renewable energy projects, define commercial and financial mechanisms for collaboration and liaise with local authorities to ensure successful project implementation.

CRE International is the renewable energy arm of China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

This collaboration is part of Sarawak’s broader strategy to meet net-zero carbon targets and contribute to the region’s long-term energy goals.

The MoU will also serve as a framework for further discussions, with detailed agreements to be negotiated for specific renewable energy projects.

The partnership is expected to enhance Sarawak’s renewable energy infrastructure, significantly contributing to economic growth and sustainability.

It also aims to explore potential solar and other renewable energy projects, including wind and energy storage solutions.

These projects, with a total potential investment of US$1.5 billion (RM6.44 billion), will boost Sarawak’s renewable energy sector, further advancing the region’s clean energy initiatives.

In his speech, Awang Tengah highlighted the importance of partnering with international companies like CRE International to accelerate Sarawak’s energy transition.

“This collaboration is a pivotal moment in Sarawak’s journey to becoming a leading renewable energy player in the region.

“We are committed to ensuring Sarawak’s potential is fully realised, and partnerships like this will drive us forward,” said the deputy premier, who is also international trade, industry and investment minister.

CRE International general manager Wang Qi, in his speech, expressed optimism in exploring Sarawak’s energy landscape.

“Sarawak’s rich natural resources and commitment to sustainability align perfectly with our mission to deliver innovative renewable energy solutions.

“We are excited to bring our expertise to Sarawak and contribute to its clean energy future,” he added.

InvestSarawak chief executive officer Timothy Ong said the MoU reflects Sarawak’s commitment to positioning the region as a premier investment destination in the renewable energy sector.

Source: NST

Sarawak, China work together to explore renewable energy projects

Communications and Information Minister Budi Arie Setiadi has admitted that global tech companies like Google and Microsoft prefer Malaysia to Indonesia as a location for data centers.

He attributed this to lower electricity costs and attractive fiscal incentives in the neighbouring country.

“In Malaysia, electricity costs just 8 [US] cents per kilowatt-hour [kWh]. They also offer tax exemptions for capital goods and provide legal certainty for investors,” Budi said on Wednesday (Oct 9), as quoted by Kontan.

Setyanto Hantoro, president commissioner at Indonesian data center operator Bersama Digital Data Centres (BDDC), highlighted that Indonesia’s electricity prices, ranging from 11 to 12 cents per kWh, were not competitive.

Budi emphasised that Indonesia’s large population and abundant renewable energy resources could make it an appealing market for modern data centres, yet the country was only expected to attract US$634 million in data centre investment this year, significantly less than Malaysia.

He underscored the need to improve the investment climate in the country and offer competitive incentives to attract global players.

“I hope we can lower the electricity costs for data centres. We must not create the impression that investing in Indonesia is difficult,” he added.

Missed opportunity Singapore imposed a moratorium on data center development from 2019 through 2022, which some described at the time as a prime opportunity for Indonesia to step into the breach as an alternative location for globally connected data centres.

However, it was Johor State in Malaysia that seized the moment, expanding its data centre capacity from 10 megawatts to 1.3 gigawatts during that period.

In contrast, Indonesia currently operates just 300 MW of data centres, despite a similar proximity to the city-state, according to the Indonesian Data Centre Association (IDPRO).

Data centre capacity is commonly measured in power consumption and hence expressed in watts.

The IDPRO had predicted that Indonesia’s data centre capacity would grow to 2.3 GW over the next decade, positioning the country as a potential regional hub due to its renewable energy resources.

However, the association stressed that, for this to happen, the government needed to offer more than just income tax breaks to attract investors and prevent them from looking elsewhere in the region.

“To be honest, Malaysia has capitalised on Singapore’s data center moratorium in a really perfect way,” Hendra Suryakusuma, chairman of the IDPRO, said in June.

On Oct 1, Google held a groundbreaking ceremony for its data centre in Malaysia, attended by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, five months after the tech giant announced the plan.

The facility located around 20 kilometers east of Kuala Lumpur involves a $2 billion investment.

It is expected to contribute $3.2 billion to the country’s GDP and create 26,500 jobs by 2030.

A day earlier, the company announced a $1 billion investment to build data centres in Thailand, which are projected to create 14,000 jobs by 2029.

In May, fellow tech giant Microsoft revealed a plan to invest $2.2 billion in Malaysia over the next four years, which would include the construction of its first data center infrastructure in the country.

Source: The Jakarta Post/ANN / The Star

Indonesian tech giants prefer Malaysia for data centres, says minister

Sarawak can become a green energy regional powerhouse that exports sustainable power to neighbouring countries and beyond by 2035, said Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.

He said Sarawak’s commitment to renewable energy and the green economy was the cornerstone of the state’s economic transformation.

“With substantial hydropower capacity, the state already leads the region in clean energy production,” he told the Sarawak Future Forum here today.

He said Sarawak was expanding its renewable energy portfolio, targeting an impressive capacity of 15GW by 2035.

To reach that goal, Abang Johari said, the state was laying the groundwork for a future where financial success was aligned with environmental stewardship.

He said decoupling the state’s economic growth from carbon emissions and resource depletion would ensure long-term economic and ecological resilience.

A speaker at the forum is Joseph Stiglitz, a US economist and professor renowned for his work on inequality, information asymmetry and global economic policy. He was a recipient of the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2001.

Abang Johari said Sarawak’s economy was historically reliant on oil, gas and timber, which were finite resources.

He said Sarawak was committed to sustainable growth.

He said the state’s Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030 was a roadmap for this transformation, with environmental sustainability a fundamental component of economic progress.

He said the roadmap was the state’s vision to “build a strong, diversified and sustainable economy that benefits all Sarawakians”.

“As we continue to develop economically, we must be mindful of the impact we have on the environment and our communities.”

He said one of the goals of the roadmap was to double Sarawak’s gross domestic product from RM136 billion in 2019 to RM282 billion in 2030.

He said in that 11-year period, 195,000 new jobs would be created.

On green initiatives, Abang Johari said green hydrogen was at the forefront of the state’s clean energy strategy.

He said the zero-emission fuel could decarbonise hard to abate industries.

“Sarawak aims to become a key exporter of hydrogen, particularly to South Korea and Japan, aligning with their national net-zero strategies.”

He said to meet export targets, Sarawak was developing “a robust hydrogen transportation and storage infrastructure”, allowing for seamless export to international markets.

“By leveraging its geographical advantage and proximity to key Asian economies, Sarawak can become a major supplier of clean hydrogen, further diversifying its economy.”

At the heart of the state’s development strategy was the principle of inclusivity, he said.

“We are determined to ensure that the benefits of economic progress are shared by all segments of society.

“Social equity must be a guiding principle as we develop policies and programmes that ensure every Sarawakian, regardless of background, has access to opportunities for education, employment and entrepreneurship.

“To truly measure our success, we must ask ourselves, are we creating a society where everyone has a chance to succeed? Are we building a future where no one is left behind?

“These are the questions that must guide our work in the years ahead.”

Source: NST

‘Sarawak can become major exporter of green energy by 2035’

The Selangor government’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) best practices goes beyond mere rhetoric; it establishes a solid framework to ensure economic development does not compromise environmental integrity and community well-being.

Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the ESG implementation offers long-term benefits in terms of environmental sustainability and in enhancing economic and social resilience.

“Globally, we are witnessing companies that comprehensively adopt ESG becoming more resilient in the face of economic challenges, climate change and social pressures.

“In Selangor, ESG has become a priority in all development planning, as evident in state policies like the Selangor Carbon Neutral 2050 initiative and various environmentally friendly projects,” he said at the Klang Sustainable Convention 2024 ESG for SDG here today.

The convention, organised by the Klang Royal City Council, was officiated by Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

Amirudin said ESG integrates environmental responsibilities with transparent corporate governance and community participation in every development process, ensuring all stakeholders — from the government and private sector to local communities — are considered in policy and planning decisions.

He said implementing sustainable development goals (SDGs) is not a light effort confined to government levels alone; it requires the comprehensive involvement of all stakeholders to ensure the integration of its goals into state and local policies positively impacts the economy, society and the local environment.

“Therefore, ESG and SDGs are not just awareness initiatives or environmental sustainability warnings; they represent a concrete framework for economic development that requires active engagement from the entire community, starting from the government to the grassroots level,” he said.

Meanwhile, Akmal Nasrullah said the adoption of SDG and ESG principles should be recognised as part of the government’s global agenda to attract investments into the country.

He said to compete effectively on the global stage, a strong commitment to ESG is crucial, as it not only enhances efficiency but also results in positive economic outcomes, such as energy savings and prolonging the lifespan of machinery and infrastructure.

“We must all recognise these two concepts are not just attractions or slogans, but real prerequisites for investors to make investments in this country,” he said.

Source: Bernama

ESG vital for economic, environmental balance — MB

An estimated 500,000 artificial intelligence (AI)-based jobs across various sectors are expected to be created in Malaysia over the next six years, said Malaysia Internet of Things (IoT) Association deputy president Datuk P. Sri Ganes.

The transition towards AI-based roles necessitates the development of new skills and training capacities.

“AI technology is projected to replace 85 million jobs worldwide. However, it will also transform the landscape of various industries by creating 97 million new jobs.

“Therefore, developing local talent capable of producing innovative solutions and becoming key players in AI must be a priority,” he said at the launch of Malaysia’s first AI comprehensive certification programme by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo recently.

Sri Ganes said the collaboration between SG TVET Group Berhad and the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute (USAII) aims to accelerate AI adoption in Malaysia.

“Through this programme, 10 leading companies in the country are offering job placement guarantees for students upon graduation,” he said.

Strengthening the research and innovative ecosystem, along with enhancing the enabling ecosystem for higher education in AI implementation, would be intensified through this collaboration.

“This initiative aims, among others, to strengthen the country’s digital economy by fostering AI expertise, improving workforce employability and positioning Malaysia as a key player in the global AI landscape,” Sri Ganes said.

The AI Engineering Certification Programme offers dual certification issued by USAII and the Department of Skills Development.

“With this dual certification, students will receive international and national accreditation, as the curriculum is developed by the USAII Global AI Council and local academic experts, in line with the National Occupational Skills Standards, which serves as the competency assessment document for skilled workers in Malaysia,” he said.

Sri Ganes added that such AI programmes would significantly contribute to Malaysia’s goal of becoming a global AI hub by 2030, as outlined in the National AI Technology Action Plan.

Source: Bernama

Up to half mln AI-based jobs expected in Malaysia within six years

The government should increase investment in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies, skills development, and greater economic inclusivity in the upcoming Budget 2025, said Learning Edge, a talent development organisation.

Its founder and managing director, Perthpal Singh Khosa emphasised that for Malaysia to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market, economic inclusivity is essential to providing all Malaysians — regardless of background or age — with access to opportunities in the new digital landscape.

“This requires bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, providing fair access to education, and supporting lifelong learning,“ he told Bernama.

Perthpal suggested specific areas for investment, including industry-relevant technical and vocational education (TVET), digital education, and leadership programmes, stating that strategic budget allocations are necessary to bolster human capital development, particularly through TVET initiatives.

However, he expressed concern that some current initiatives were not producing the skilled professionals needed to move the country forward.

“The changes we will witness in the next three to five years will be faster and more transformative than the past decade. AI is going to revolutionise industries, and those who aren’t prepared will be left behind,” he said.

As an advocate of talent development, Perthpal asserted that a well-funded, industry-relevant TVET system is crucial for equipping individuals with the specialised skills needed to keep Malaysia competitive in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and emerging industries like green technology.

“Significant investments in digital education are essential to ensure the next generation possesses digital fluency as automation and AI continue to redefine industries.

“We also need to fund leadership development programmes at all levels, as effective leaders inspire their teams to drive productivity. Lifelong learning incentives are crucial, making it easier for Malaysians to access continuous education through grants, subsidies, or employer-supported schemes,” he said.

Perthpal also highlighted the importance of substantial investments in digital infrastructure to enhance service delivery and fully integrate AI and automation into operations.

He advocated for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, urging the involvement of industry experts in policy-making to ensure effective investments in skills training and AI development.

“The upcoming budget is expected to push government-linked companies to align more closely with national goals, particularly in skills development,” he noted.

While increasing funding in specific areas is crucial for talent development, Perthpal said stakeholders in human resource development have called for greater transparency regarding how financial grants are disbursed and improved quality control in Human Resource Development Corporation-funded training programmes.

“We must ensure that the programmes we invest in deliver results. Some current training initiatives are failing to produce the skilled professionals we need,” he added.

Budget 2025 will be tabled in Parliament on Oct 18, 2024.

Source: Bernama

Budget 2025: Increase investment in AI technologies, skills development – Learning Edge

Malaysia is poised to be a regional leader in energy transition by harnessing natural resources and sound policy at high level, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said.

Despite contributing less than one per cent of carbon dioxide emission, Raifiz said the government continues to carry its global responsibility through thoughtful measures that secure a sustainable future for the people of Southeast Asia.

In the effort to embrace energy transition and decarbonising at scale, Rafizi said policy and resource are the two types of pathways that countries can really turn to.

He noted that while some countries favour one pathway over the other, most tend to do a combination of the two with some tradeoffs.

“But it is very rare for a country to do both at a high level. Those that do are poised to become climate leaders and regional energy hubs. I believe Malaysia is well placed to do exactly that,” he said at the International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia 2024 (IGEM) here today.

On carbon capture and utilisation storage (CCUS) bill that the ministry will be tabled in Parliament next month, Rafizi said the first of its kind regulatory framework is benchmarked against several countries’ and has incorporated internationally recognised standards.

He added that the path to decarbonisation goes through CCUS whereby without the latter, power plants and steel industries will just not meet their targets.

“By rolling out this legislation, we are piecing that final jigsaw to the puzzle. Demonstrating that Malaysia can marry both policy and natural resources towards net zero,” he added.

According to Rafizi, there is real demand from Japan, South Korea and Singapore for Malaysia to take the lead in regional climate move.

“Ultimately, being a megadiverse country comes with acknowledging that actually most countries aren’t blessed like us. Having this head start means we have a greater responsibility.

“It doesn’t matter if we aren’t the biggest contributor of emissions. What matters is we show the right stewardship of our environment and push forward towards net zero,” he said.

Source: NST

Malaysia set to be Asean’s energy transition leader: Rafizi

IBM Malaysia said the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI)- driven solutions, alongside
supportive government policies promoting technological innovation, will drive Malaysia’s AI market growth.

Its managing director and technology leader, Dickson Woo, believes that continuous investment in AI research and development, and robust public-private partnerships will be key to sustaining this growth.

“Additionally, government initiatives such as the National 4IR Policy and the ‘AI Untuk Rakyat’ programme are expected to play a significant role in fostering an AI-friendly ecosystem.

“Businesses can support these drivers by investing in AI capabilities, nurturing a culture of innovation, and actively participating in government-led AI initiatives,” Woo told Bernama.

He noted that to maintain Malaysia’s competitive edge, IBM Malaysia advocates for increased investment in expanding and enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure. He highlighted the need to boost broadband coverage, accelerate the 5G rollout, and strengthen cloud computing capabilities, noting that these investments are essential for supporting the backbone of the digital economy and enabling innovations like AI to thrive.

“As AI becomes more integrated into business and government operations, it is critical to ensure that these technologies operate ethically and transparently. Malaysia can take the lead in establishing governance frameworks that prioritise data privacy, security, and fairness in AI deployment,” Woo added.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil recently outlined three key pillars aimed at building an AI-enabled digital backbone and transforming countries into tech-driven nations that leverage connectivity.

The three pillars – implementing forward-thinking policies, building sustainable infrastructure, and fostering skills across all segments of society – would enable the harnessing of connectivity to drive progress, promote inclusivity, and build a better future for all.

According to Woo, IBM sees the need for targeted government funding and incentives to accelerate the development and adoption of AI and other emerging technologies. “This could involve grants and subsidies for businesses investing in AI solutions. Expanding initiatives like the National AI Roadmap would further ensure that Malaysia remains at the forefront of technological innovation,” he added.

Source: Bernama

Rising Demand And Supportive Policies Key To Malaysia AI Market Growth – IBM Malaysia

The Asia International Exchange (AIX) marked a significant milestone on Wednesday with the soft launch of its digital asset platform, positioning Labuan as a key financial technology (fintech) hub in the region.

AIX Investment Group Company Ltd chief executive officer Roslan Ahmad said the digital platform showcased AIX’s commitment to revolutionising financial markets with secure, transparent, and efficient trading through advanced technologies.

“AIX represents a leap forward by integrating blockchain technology and AI-driven systems to offer seamless access to a broad range of financial products, from cryptocurrencies to tokenised assets.

“Our vision is to make Labuan a global fintech leader, and today’s launch is a crucial step toward realising that goal,” he said at the soft launch of the platform at Palm Beach Resort and Spa here on Wednesday.

The platform was launched by Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC) chairman Datuk Iskandar Mohd Nuli.

Roslan said a notable highlight of the event was the introduction of SedeqahTech, another innovative platform merging fintech with charitable giving.

“Using blockchain technology, SedeqahTech ensures transparency in donations and offers an effortless way for users to contribute to zakat, sedekah, infaq, and waqf.

“Initially, the platform will collaborate with Rumah Zakat Indonesia and the Khadijah International Waqf Foundation (KIWF) to enable global zakat collection, driving community empowerment and sustainable development through Islamic finance.

He said SedeqahTech has the potential to transform how Islamic charitable obligations are fulfilled.

“While we are starting with the zakat collection, our long-term vision includes expanding the platform to cover sedekah, infaq, and waqf, providing a transparent and modern solution for global charitable contributions.

“Blockchain technology will ensure donations are traceable and handled with integrity,” he said.

Roslan said the launch of AIX also highlighted several strategic partnerships designed to enhance financial innovation and economic opportunities in Labuan.

“In addition, partnerships with PT Smartin Advisor Sistem and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) will promote financial literacy and prepare future professionals for careers in fintech and automated trading.

He said as part of its technical and marketing support, AIX announced Fintech Asset Pro Sdn Bhd as its fintech technical partner and European Credit Investment Bank Ltd as its marketing partner, both key players in driving the platform’s growth.

“We are committed to driving innovation, education, and economic empowerment as Labuan transforms into a digital city.

“With a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, Labuan aims to set a global standard for financial hubs,” he said.

He said the launch of AIX places Labuan at the forefront of financial technology, accelerating both economic progress and social impact through innovation, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach.

Source: Bernama

Labuan to be key financial technology hub in region

Malaysia is making significant progress in green technology, positioning itself as a key player in sustainable development and renewable energy, said Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

He said that gatherings such as the International Greentech and Eco Product Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2024 provide substantial opportunities for Malaysia to enhance its role as a leader in green and renewable energy.

He emphasised that IGEM 2024 offers a unique platform for government and industry stakeholders to engage directly, fostering collaboration which transforms ideas into action and investments into tangible impact, while addressing pressing challenges.

“Malaysia has made significant strides in green technology, with last year’s IGEM 2023 alone we achieved more than RM5 billion worth of business leads, again emphasising IGEM’s importance as the platform for sustainable development in the region.

“By joining forces, we can turn obstacles into stepping stones, and drive the profound change our planet desperately requires,” he said in his speech at the IGEM 2024 Exhibitor Reception session, here, today.

Nik Nazmi added that IGEM 2024 offers an excellent opportunity to highlight Malaysia’s ongoing initiatives, and illustrate how the nation aligns its development goals with the global sustainability agenda.

Taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), from today until Friday, IGEM 2024 is the region’s longest-running green technology exhibition, organised by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), and co-organised by the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC), alongside the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and The C0_LAB Pte Ltd.

Themed ‘Race Towards Net Zero: Regional Leadership for Climate Urgency’, IGEM 2024 sets an ambitious target of RM4.8 billion in business leads, and drawing 48,000 visitors from over 48 countries

The minister said that the government is fully committed to advancing policies which foster sustainable development, in line with the pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

He further explained that the government’s policies focus on ensuring that environmental sustainability is not merely an adjunct to economic growth. This includes ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand renewable energy capacity, and promote sustainable practices across key sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and transport.

“However, government action alone is insufficient; we must forge partnerships with the private sector and the exhibitors present today. These collaborations will drive and lead to meaningful change.

“Our efforts ensure that IGEM will remain relevant as technology and innovation progress in the coming years, and our primary interest is to adopt and adapt to these changes, ensuring that the exhibition serves as a platform for all stakeholders,” he said.

Earlier this morning, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC-COP29) Pavilion, officiated by Deputy Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii. Also in attendance were the ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Dr Ching Thoo Kim; deputy secretary-general Datuk Nor Yahati Awang and Dr Hartini Mohd Nasir, undersecretary of the ministry’s Climate Change Division.

Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) group chief executive officer Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor; MGTC board chairman Shareen Shariza Abdul Ghani and MGTC board member Datuk Leong Kin Mun were also present.

COP29 will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from Nov 11 to 22.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia makes significant strides in green tech through IGEM – Nik Nazmi

ASEAN micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) should benefit from the US$2 trillion expected economic value generated from the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) by 2030.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the DEFA negotiations launched last year are expected to conclude during Malaysia’s chairmanship in 2025.

According to the minister, ASEAN has laid the groundwork for digital transformation through the Bandar Seri Begawan Roadmap (BSBR), which aims to accelerate economic recovery and digital integration by 2025.

“A key milestone is the establishment of the DEFA, envisioned to harmonise regulations and create a more competitive regional trade ecosystem.

“This agreement is pivotal in transforming ASEAN into a digitally resilient and integrated region,“ said Tengku Zafrul during the World Bank Forum’s special reception at the ASEAN Summit 2024: Enabling ASEAN’s Digital Future held here, tonight.

Closing the digital divide among member countries

He also emphasised the need for ASEAN to address the policy and regulatory gaps among its member states to bridge the digital divide that persists among the member nations.

He said closing the gap will be essential for a truly inclusive regional digital future and in tapping ASEAN’s digital economy, projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2030.

However, he said to fully realise the digital future’s potential, ASEAN must address both opportunities and challenges, particularly the digital divide among ASEAN member states. For example, the Internet penetration rate in Singapore and Malaysia is over 90 per cent while Myanmar and Laos’ are closer to 50-60 per cent.

“The adoption of digital technologies has the potential to accelerate growth by as much as 8-10 per cent annually across member states.

“To fully capitalise on this, we need cohesive and well-coordinated digital policies that attract the right investments and foster innovation while ensuring equitable access to technology for all,“ said Tengku Zafrul, who arrived in Vientiane on Oct 6 to attend the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, which runs until Oct 11.

He said ASEAN’s collective economic strength, with a population base of 680 million and gross domestic product (GDP) of US$3.8 trillion in 2023, is significant, making the regional bloc the fifth-largest globally.

He said by 2030, ASEAN is expected to become the fourth-largest economy, driven by a population of over 717 million, with a large proportion of digitally-savvy youth. Digital adoption in ASEAN is growing rapidly, with over 400 million current internet users in the region.

“This makes us an attractive market to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs), fostering entrepreneurship and technology transfer, which can accelerate economic growth.

Enhancing digital trade

He said Malaysia is aggressively pushing to enhance digital trade, especially to improve MSME’s participation, and increase the value in the supply chain that supports digital trade, such as logistics.

The digital economy, especially digital trade, must generate sustainable positive spillovers to local markets, he added.

As for ASEAN, he said the grouping is the fastest-growing Internet market. With 125,000 new users on the Internet daily, ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to grow significantly, adding an estimated $1 trillion to regional GDP over the next 10 years.

Many roadblocks, nevertheless, stand in the way of realising this potential.

“ASEAN has laid out important policy measures and frameworks, including the AEC Blueprint 2025, Masterplan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025, and the e-ASEAN Framework Agreement, to address these roadblocks.

“ASEAN has also laid the groundwork for digital transformation through the Bandar Seri Begawan Roadmap (BSBR), which aims to accelerate economic recovery and digital integration by 2025.

Role of MSMEs

On another note, he said fostering a conducive environment for start-ups and MSMEs is key to unleashing ASEAN’s digital economy’s full potential since MSMEs account for 97 per cent of all businesses and contribute significantly to employment.

“By empowering them with digital tools and access to capital, we can create a fertile ground for innovation, job creation, and regional growth,” said Tengku Zafrul.

However, increasing cybersecurity threats and data privacy issues are on the rise in the region, with the economic cost of cybercrime in ASEAN estimated to be over US$100 billion annually. This underscores the importance of robust data protection measures and the demand for more trusted digital systems.

Establishing strong cybersecurity policy/regulatory frameworks and fostering collaboration among governments and the private sector will ensure that people and businesses can engage and scale up in the digital economy confidently and securely, he added.

As Malaysia prepares to lead the economic pillar of ASEAN in 2025, he said the country will prioritise two key deliverables, the ASEAN DEFA and initiatives related to artificial intelligence.

“These initiatives will underscore our commitment to building a digitally resilient ASEAN, aligning with global demands and technological advancements,“ said Tengku Zafrul.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to join the summit, alongside other ASEAN leaders and dialogue partners.

Laos will officially hand over the chairmanship to Malaysia in the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits closing ceremony. Malaysia will assume the ASEAN chair on Jan 1, 2025.

Source: Bernama

ASEAN MSMEs should benefit from Digital Economy Framework Agreement

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the driving force behind the future of Malaysia’s industries, public services, and economy, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.

The potential for AI to enhance productivity, streamline processes and unlock new avenues for growth is immense, he stated.

“It offers Malaysia an unprecedented opportunity to strengthen our global competitiveness while ensuring inclusive development for all citizens. By embracing AI, we can tackle pressing challenges, modernise key sectors and secure long-term prosperity,” he said in his speech read out by the ministry’s secretary-general Fabian Bigar at the inaugural Cisco Malaysia AI Day today.

Gobind quoted Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as saying that the government wants to empower all citizens through digital inclusivity.

“This is extremely important. Digital technology is for everyone. We will ensure no one is left behind in our race to transform Malaysia into a digital nation. We will continue to be citizen-centric and inclusive, regardless of age, background or social standing. Our objective is to enhance the efficiency of public services and accessibility to these services for the people,” Gobind said.

At the event, Cisco formalised three collaboration agreements aimed at driving Al-led innovation in Malaysia.

The company announced a collaboration with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia to launch an Al hackathon aimed at bridging the Al skills gap and providing students with valuable hands-on experience working with technology.

Additionally, it outlined its strategy to empower Malaysian businesses to leverage Al to unlock new business opportunities.

Cisco said that Al can potentially deliver a US$115 billion (RM493 billion) uplift to Malaysia’s gross domestic product. While it generates new opportunities, it also introduces new security risks and threat vectors that must be defended against, it added.

Cisco detailed its strategy to help businesses in Malaysia address these challenges at scale by building trusted infrastructure to help companies power, support, and secure Al workloads, and incorporating Al across Cisco’s entire portfolio to simplify the customer experience.

Additionally, Cisco signed two collaboration agreements under its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) programme in Malaysia.

CDA is its co-investment and co-innovation platform that operates in 50 countries around the world. With CDA, Cisco aims to power economic resilience and social inclusion by unlocking the value of digitisation.

The first collaboration with Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) will focus on helping the National Digital Department (JDN) modernise its digital infrastructure.

TM will build a secure, agile network for JDN’s Putrajaya campus, enhancing network performance, reliability, and capacity to support bandwidth-intensive applications such as Al/Machine Learning technologies. Cisco will provide Al-powered collaboration tools such as Webex Boards and Cisco Spaces to drive seamless and secure employee workspace experiences.

With features such as Al-powered 3D maps and real-time insights on room availability and occupancy trends, employees can navigate the office while enabling JDN to optimise its space utilisation.

In its collaboration with Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), Cisco will equip PNB’s innovation lab, network operations center, and open collaboration areas with Al-powered networking, Internet of Things, collaboration and security technologies as it transitions to a new office.

The innovation lab, featuring Cisco’s Webex, Meraki devices, and ThousandEyes will enable PNB to test and develop sustainable workplace technologies. Cisco ThousandEyes’ Al-driven intelligence in the Network Operations Center will enhance PNB’s ability to detect, diagnose, and remediate disruptions impacting the user experience. Cisco Webex Boards will facilitate inclusive work experiences with Al-enhanced video, audio and other capabilities.

PNB will also leverage Cisco Spaces to create smarter workplaces for employees.

Source: The Sun

AI will be driving force behind future of Malaysia’s economy, growth: Gobind

Malaysia recently launched South-east Asia’s largest integrated circuit (IC) design hub in Selangor, but it currently lacks enough talents to drive its push as a pivotal hub.

Singapore-based CNA reported that Malaysia needs 10 times more than the around 5,000 engineering graduates it produces each year — so the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) has developed an industrial college to bridge the talent gap.

“There’s a global war for talent in terms of hardware and software, so what we are doing now to solve the talent problem is we are co-investing in another project beside the IC park – around RM200 million to build a school,” Sidec chief executive Yong Kai Ping reportedly said.

This school is the Malaysia Advanced Semiconductor AI Institute (Masai), which Yong said will function as a link between universities and the industry rather than replacing tertiary education.

This comes as each IC park requires around 400 to 600 engineers trained in computer science, mechanical and electronic engineering, it said.

In August, state government-linked news outlet Selangor Journal cited Yong saying that Masai is a rebranding of the Selangor Digital School, a state government educational initiative to enhance digital literacy.

Yong said Selangor Digital School would be upgraded to an industrial college status, and managed by Sidec as its programme director.

He was quoted saying that Masai’s curriculum will include training in IC design tools as well as other tech-based applications used in AI and the semiconductor industry.

In the report, Yong said the institution will also offer an upskilling curriculum and provide top undergraduate students with access to companies, thus enabling research, on-the-job training and job placement for graduates.

Masai reportedly aims to train 1,000 to 5,000 graduates annually.

The Malaysia Semiconductor IC Design Park: Selangor Hub, which spans 60,000 square feet and located in PFCC Puchong, was officially launched in August along with the KL20 Summit.

The project is expected to bring in economic returns of RM500 million to RM1 billion.

Source: Malay Mail

Malaysia needs way more IC design talent than it currently has — To solve this, Selangor is banking on a new industrial college

The need for renewable energy (RE) in the country is increasing in line with the confidence of foreign investors, especially in establishing data centres.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the situation presents a challenge to the government in ensuring that the demand can be met apart from the need for water supply to draw investors.

“Right now in Johor alone, the demand for renewable energy is approximately 8,000 megawatts, as it is with the (amount of) water supply to cool the data centre.

“It means that if we are not ready, then these investors will not come. That’s why we have to find a way to ensure that we can supply the energy needed by the investors,” he said.

He was speaking at Majlis Jamuan Jalinan Perpaduan Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri Sidam, Badan Bukan Kerajaan Siam dan Ketua-Ketua Agensi here tonight.

Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the situation also required the necessary human resources, especially the working class with upskilled knowledge to meet the needs of investors.

He said in that regard, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) plays a pivotal role in producing a local technical workforce in accordance with foreign investor demands.

“This is precisely what is being implemented under the leadership of our Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim). That is why TVET is being focused on for us to train, now under (Deputy Prime Minister) Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, to focus on how we want to ensure that this TVET (education) is widespread,” he also said.

Fadillah emphasised the responsibility of ensuring that Malaysians are equipped with new technical knowledge and skills, which must be supported by all quarters so that foreign investment can materialise here.

Also present at the event were Sungai Petani Member of Parliament Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari and Sidam state assemblyman Bau Wong Bau Ek.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia must meet rising demand of RE to woo investors – Fadillah

Despite facing challenges, the port remains dedicated to serving the local community and boosting the regional economy

MMC Corp Bhd’s Penang Port Bhd plans to invest up to RM150 million over the next 24 months in capital expenditures (capex) to improve its infrastructure and purchase environmentally friendly equipment. 

CEO Datuk Sashedaran Vasudevan said as part of its green efforts, the company has acquired two batches of Hybrid Rubber-tyred Gantry (RTG). 

Each RTG cost about RM4 million to RM5 million, and the company has purchased eight units, with a combined total of RM40 million. 

Moreover, the port operator has set aside a capex of about RM15 million for the conventional cargo, to improve its existing substations and other facilities. 

Penang Port has recently concluded a project valued at RM20 million, which involves equipping 20 RTGs with battery packs. 

In addition, the company has committed about RM40 million to RM50 million for infrastructure upgrading. 

Solar and Shore Powers 

Currently, it is undertaking a feasibility study for a solar energy project with a proposed capacity of two megawatts, via the self-consumption (Selco) initiative by Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB). 

Selco is an option to generate electricity from a company’s own solar photovoltaic system, to offset or reduce its electricity bills. 

It would allow companies to consume all the electricity generated by its solar system but will not allow any excess to flow into the utility network. 

“Capex is not known yet, we are still doing a feasibility study,” Sashedaran said during a recent media visit. 

He added that Penang Port is exploring the possibility of setting up solar panels on stilts on shallow water pockets in its premises, “like a solar farm”. 

On the other hand, he said the global cruise business is expected to “go fully shore-power” by 2030. 

Shore power refers to the practice of supplying electricity from the shore to a docked cruise ship (or other vessels) instead of using the ship’s onboard generators. 

This allows the ship to turn off its engines and reduce emissions, noise and fuel consumption while in port. 

Sashedaran explained that when a cruise ship ports at a berth, it is equivalent to 10,000 cars switched on, despite it being equipped with the most advanced technology to contain black smoke. 

“That is underway. We are 18 to 24 months away from providing shore power, which will give competitive fuel advantage. 

“When we were in Miami, Florida, earlier this year, the sea trade business said that by 2030, the cruise ships will only port in ports with shore power, hence that is very crucial to stay in business,” he said. 

Sashedaran hoped that the infrastructure could be completed as early as 2026, upon approval from the government. 

The power supply could be charged back to the cruise ships that utilise the potential facilities, and the proposed shore power project has received support from relevant ministries. 

Furthermore, the port operator has invested up to RM100 million to upgrade the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal and aims to be a major cruise hub in South-East Asia. 

The company is also hoping to upgrade its homeporting capabilities, referring to the port that a ship returns to after it has finished travelling or transporting goods somewhere. 

Providing enhanced capabilities will boost Penang’s local economy as it would attract more vessels and tourists, resulting in more revenue for the businesses in Penang. 

The time spent onshore during intervals usually allows tourists ample time to buy souvenirs or source for other supplies from businesses nearby. 

“We need a holistic home porting ecosystem, which includes seamless coordination between the airport, port and authorities like customs and immigration,” he said. 

Ferry Service 

Penang Port is working closely with the Malaysia Cruise Council to promote the state as an international cruise operator. 

It aims to achieve 1.2 million passengers for its cruise ship business by year-end, similar to its record set last year. 

Sashedaran said it is slightly below track, as the Red Sea Crisis had impacted the segment which resulted in loss of an estimated 280,000 passengers or 24 cancellations. 

Post-Covid-19, Indian tourists made up the bulk of its passengers, compared to before the pandemic, when Chinese tourists held the top spot, in terms of customer demographics. 

The growth was attributed to the weak ringgit recorded previously as well as the visa-free scheme for Chinese and Indian tourists, announced by the government which commenced from Dec 1, 2023, and will run until Dec 31, 2024. 

Sashedaran noted that the port operator incurs annual losses of up to RM14 million Penang Port is working closely with the Malaysia Cruise Council to promote the state as an international cruise operator. 

It aims to achieve 1.2 million passengers for its cruise ship business by year-end, similar to its record set last year. 

Sashedaran said it is slightly below track, as the Red Sea Crisis had impacted the segment which resulted in loss of an estimated 280,000 passengers or 24 cancellations. 

Post-Covid-19, Indian tourists made up the bulk of its passengers, compared to before the pandemic, when Chinese tourists held the top spot, in terms of customer demographics. 

The growth was attributed to the weak ringgit recorded previously as well as the visa-free scheme for Chinese and Indian tourists, announced by the government which commenced from Dec 1, 2023, and will run until Dec 31, 2024. Sashedaran noted that the port operator incurs annual losses of up to RM14 million while striving to provide affordable and reliable transport for the bottom 40% (B40) and middle 40% income groups (M40) who are the regular commuters using its service. These losses are largely attributed to the ferry business. 

Despite operating at a loss, it was understood at the time of the government concession to operate the Penang ferry service, that the service would require significant subsidies from the company. 

The ferry service is an important staple in the state, which connects the city of Georgetown on the island and Butterworth on the mainland. 

The cross-strait transit has been in operation since 1894, making it the longest-running ferry service in Malaysia. 

The ferry service is heavily utilised and relied upon by the B40 and M40 commuters of the community. Furthermore, it helps to minimise the traffic congestion between both parts of Penang. 

The company had voiced its concerns, to which the government in response while striving to provide affordable and reliable transport for the bottom  40% (B40) and middle 40% income groups (M40) who are the regular commuters using its service. These losses are largely attributed to the ferry business. 

Despite operating at a loss, it was understood at the time of the government concession to operate the Penang ferry service, that the service would require significant subsidies from the company. 

The ferry service is an important staple in the state, which connects the city of Georgetown on the island and Butterworth on the mainland. 

The cross-strait transit has been in operation since 1894, making it the longest-running ferry service in Malaysia. 

The ferry service is heavily utilised and relied upon by the B40 and M40 commuters of the community. Furthermore, it helps 

to minimise the traffic congestion between both parts of Penang. 

The company had voiced its concerns, to which the government in response implemented a higher tariff to RM2 per way. Previously the price was RM1.20 two-way. 

Despite the higher tariff, the company continues to register a loss, albeit at an improved figure. 

“It used to be a RM20 million loss, because of the tariff increase, it has decreased to RM14 million. 

“To alleviate that situation, we also rent out our ferries for private functions. That helps to lighten the burden, but not entirely,” he said. 

Fuel Subsidy 

Sashedaran hoped the rental service provided will gain more traction among the public and private businesses in order to supplement and sustain the company’s operations. 

Its ferry chartering service is currently priced at RM1,500 per hour and is usually booked by private corporations, for company functions, or even for wedding events by individuals. 

At the same time, the company has requested additional support from the government in the form of subsidies to help lower its operational costs, specifically for fuel. 

Fuel subsidies are provided to transport companies, such as bus operators, with government approval. 

Sashedaran said there are no plans to increase the ferries’ capacity at the moment, as ridership is sporadic throughout the day. 

“Ferry ridership is very unique. The ferry is highly utilised from 6.30am until about 9am, then there are not a lot of people on it, with sometimes only about 10 people (on board). But it still has to run according to schedule,” he said. 

Each ferry has the capacity to carry up to 150 passengers and 50 two-wheeled vehicles, such as motorcycles and rickshaws, operating at speeds between nine and 11 knots (20.37kph). 

Based on its schedule, it makes 70 trips per day at 30-minute intervals. 

As part of Penang Port’s commitment to the government and the public, Sashedaran stressed that operations need to be continued as per its schedule, regardless of uncontrollable factors such as weather. 

Sashedaran said, for example, even during a storm that occurred recently, the company did not cancel any of the trips but rather delayed it out of necessity. 

Going above and beyond the call of duty, it added extra ferries to cope with the situation in order to clear the crowd at its terminals.

Regarding maintenance, he said the existing ferries are new and that they have received a waiver from the government for two years, after which they will be docked.

The first docking activity is scheduled to be completed by next year, during which the vessel will be taken out of the water for cleaning and routine maintenance, which is a costly endeavour. 

Budget 2025 Wishlist

For the upcoming Budget 2025, Penang Port hoped to receive additional assistance from the government, through incentives on areas of concern such as port tariffs, taxes, as well as human capital development. 

Sashedaran disclosed that the company hopes that the budget will include incentives for employee upskilling. 

“When you talk about expansion, ports are still a labour-intensive business. So, when you expand the port, you also need to expand the number of manpower,” he said.

Currently, Penang Port has a total workforce of about 1,470 employees. 

Sashedaran pointed out that the port tariffs set by the government generates revenue for the company, which in turn will be used to reinvest and expand its ports.

Thus far, the government has been supportive and the ministries listen to the company, and take ideas from it. 

“We have a government that listens to the operators and the users, which is a good thing. Let us see how the Budget 2025 turns out,” he said. 

Penang Port expects to hit 1.5 million twenty-equivalent units (TEUs) by year-end. The target is set slightly higher compared to its record of 1.44 million TEUs handled in 2023. 

However, the forecast is set lower from its initial target of 1.55 million TEUs earlier in the year, due to the geopolitical crisis and shortage of containers. 

“The Red Sea crisis came to light only post-April. That is when it made a huge impact on us,” he added, mentioning that the port had lost up to 70,000 TEUs due to the Red Sea crisis. 

To increase its TEUs, Sashedaran said the company is shifting its focus towards the Bay of Bengals transhipment market. 

“If you put together all these four nations, (Bangladesh, Indonesia, India and Myanmar) there are about eight million containers sitting in the Bay of Bengal,” he said.

Source: The Malaysian Reserve

Penang Port to invest up to RM150m for green efforts

The International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) is expected to attract 48,000 participants and 480 exhibitors from 48 countries, generating business leads estimated at RM4.8 billion.

Organised by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry with co-organiser Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC), a statement from MGTC said the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is its strategic partner for the Oct 9-11 2024 event.

“The theme ‘Race Towards Net Zero: Regional Leadership for Climate Urgency’ reflects the pressing need for collective action against climate change,” the statement said.

“As global efforts intensify to curb greenhouse gas emissions, IGEM will be at the forefront of critical discussions around sustainability and green technology solutions for the region’s future,” it said.

MGTC group chief executive officer Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor said IGEM’s role is to position Malaysia on the global stage as the country prepares for the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025 and the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Azerbaijan.

“IGEM is a global nexus for innovation and collaboration where ideas evolve into tangible solutions. Bringing together international leaders, green businesses, and policymakers catalyses crossborder cooperation, knowledge exchange, and technological advancements that is crucial in addressing the climate crisis.

“This platform amplifies Malaysia’s leadership on the world stage and creates the opportunity for meaningful partnerships that can drive impactful change globally,” Shamsul said.

A key highlight of IGEM 2024 will be the Clean Energy Transition Asia (CETA) summit, which will unite ministers, policymakers, and private sector leaders to guide Asia’s shift towards clean energy.

The summit is designed to offer participants practical insights and strategies, focusing on public-private collaboration to boost clean energy efforts across the region.

Source: Bernama

IGEM 2024 expects to generate RM4.8 bln business leads

The government is optimistic that Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has the potential to become the region’s cargo hub, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

He said KLIA has all the necessary factors to continue to grow and become the cargo hub for the ASEAN region.

Loke pointed out that over the past few years, significant developments have taken place in this area of KLIA, with many new cargo warehousing complexes being established.

“KLIA is a huge airport, and it is not just about the passenger terminal. The cargo is a very important component of KLIA.

“As you have seen over the last few years, major developments have taken place in this part of KLIA,” he told reporters after witnessing the strategic partnership between MMAG Aviation Consortium Sdn Bhd (MAC) and Unilode Aviation Solutions, here today.

Loke said KLIA has the potential to become a central hub for ASEAN due to its extensive network.

“We have advantages that many may not have noticed. In terms of connectivity within ASEAN, KLIA is one of the best in the region.

“Through our airlines, especially our low-cost carriers, we serve numerous secondary cities in ASEAN, such as those in Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia.

“With our strong network at KLIA, we must fully utilise our resources, and I’m confident that all airlines are considering this as well,” he said.

Meanwhile, Loke said that as the transport minister, he will continue his role to ensure that the transportation and logistics sectors remain competitive, efficient, and aligned with international standards.

He said the government, through the Ministry of Transport, has been working diligently to create a conducive environment that encourages innovation, growth, and sustainable development in these sectors.

“Through the National Transport Policy 2019 – 2030, we have made a priority to strengthen governance and build institutional frameworks that are robust and adaptable to the fast-evolving demands of the logistics industry.

“With new and disruptive technologies on the rise, we must ensure that these frameworks allow industry players to operate effectively in a competitive environment while ensuring users receive integrated and efficient logistics services,” he added.

Source: Bernama

Govt optimistic KLIA can become regional cargo hub – Loke