KUALA LUMPUR, June 17 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS and JERA have agreed to expand their collaboration across the gas value chain with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) including providing reliable LNG supply for Japan. The agreement builds upon PETRONAS and JERA’s long-established partnership since 1983.
 
The MoU was signed during Energy Asia 2025, by Datuk Adif Zulkifli, EVP Gas & Maritime Business and Mr. Ryosuke Tsugaru, Senior Managing Executive Officer and Chief Low Carbon Officer, witnessed by PETRONAS President and Group Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik, and JERA Global Chief Executive Officer and Chair, Yukio Kani.
 
PETRONAS has been delivering LNG to Japan for over four decades and is committed to continue meeting customer needs with reliable delivery of LNG. JERA has been purchasing LNG from Malaysia and other countries and securing stable energy supply for the customers. As long-term partners, PETRONAS and JERA are mutually committed to meet market demands with lower-carbon energy solutions. The companies will continue to explore initiatives aligned with this shared goal as part of both organisation’s broader decarbonisation strategy.
 
About PETRONAS

PETRONAS is a global energy group with operations in over 100 countries. Through its integrated LNG value chain and strong sustainability focus, PETRONAS delivers reliable energy solutions to meet rising global demand.
 
About JERA

JERA is a global energy leader and Japan’s largest power generation company, producing one-third of Japan’s electricity, and is one of the largest LNG buyers in the world. In support of a responsible energy transition, JERA has committed to achieving net-zero CO₂ emissions from its domestic and overseas businesses by 2050.

SOURCE: PETRONAS

AEON Credit presents AEON Biker Gold Visa and AEON Biker Infinite Visa, catering to different segments of bike-owners in Malaysia

The AEON Biker Visa Cards were officially unveiled at a launch ceremony held at The Estate on Federal Hill last night, in the presence of Mr. Previn Pillay, Visa Country Manager for Malaysia, along with esteemed guests, business partners, and members of the media. The launch marks a significant step forward in AEON Credit’s ongoing efforts to deepen engagement with Malaysia’s dynamic motorcycling community while expanding its credit card portfolio.

 

In line with the Group’s purpose of “Bringing Finance Closer to Everyone”, AEON Credit continues to deliver financial solutions that are timely, accessible, and tailored to evolving customer needs. As a market leader in motorcycle financing, the Group currently holds approximately a 25% market share of newly registered motorcycles in the country. The introduction of the AEON Biker Visa Cards represents the next phase in its commitment to support customers beyond vehicle ownership by enhancing the riding lifestyle, rewarding everyday spending, and fostering a connected and empowered community of riders.

 

Mr. Daisuke Maeda (前田大輔), Managing Director of AEON Credit Service (M) Berhad with AEON Credit's latest credit card curated specifically for bikers: The AEON Biker Gold Card and the AEON Biker Infinite Card.

 

Mr. Daisuke Maeda, Managing Director of AEON Credit, said, “As Malaysia progresses toward high-income nation status, motorcycles are no longer just a necessity but a lifestyle choice. The AEON Biker Card is our response to this evolution, designed to support the needs and aspirations of today’s modern riders."

 

 

He further added, “These benefits are all part of our broader vision to cultivate a vibrant and connected biking community in Malaysia that celebrates freedom, passion, and shared experiences. This is just the beginning, as we are also collaborating with our merchants and manufacturers to bring even more privileges, promotions and custom deals through the AEON Wallet app, making the biking experience not only more rewarding but also safer and more accessible.”

 

 

"At Visa, we are thrilled to announce this partnership with AEON Credit, which is uniquely tailored to meet the needs of the biking community. With nearly 83 per cent of Malaysian households owning a motorbike, it underscores the significance of this community and highlights the need to create benefits that support and enhance the experiences of bikers. Our collaboration with AEON Credit to serve this segment of customers is testament to our ongoing efforts to cater to the diverse segments of our community, ensuring that every Visa cardholder can enjoy the advantages that align with their interests and way of life," said Mr. Previn Pillay, Visa Country Manager for Malaysia.

 

 

ABOUT AEON CREDIT SERVICE (M) BERHAD

 

Established in 1996 and listed on Bursa Malaysia, AEON Credit offers a comprehensive suite of financing services including Credit Cards, Easy Payment Schemes, Hire Purchase Financing for Motor Vehicles, Personal Financing schemes, Insurance brokering, and digital banking.

New research from CloudMosa shows digital inclusion is shifting from CSR to a core business strategy – and telcos stand to gain if they move quickly

• Majority (97%) of telco leaders say digital inclusion is now central to their business strategy, driven primarily by the need to bridge the digital divide (71%)

• With 92% of respondents seeing a strong alignment with government affordability initiatives as a key benefit of prioritizing digital inclusion

• Despite 2G network phaseouts progressing – with 62% of telcos completing the transition – 40% of Indian consumers still rely on 2G, exposing a critical gap in access

• 93% express confidence in cloud-powered solutions to help close the digital inclusion gap across high-growth markets

HONG KONG SAR - 18 June 2025 - Millions of would-be customers remain offline across Asia's fastest-growing digital economies. This is not a lifestyle choice; it's because telcos are overlooking them — and a big growth opportunity in the process. In India, Vietnam, and the Philippines alone, over 600 million people still lack affordable access to the internet. CloudMosa, a leading cloud and mobile technology company, today released its inaugural B-Gap Barometer report, exploring the barriers keeping people offline in markets with network access as well as attitudes to potential solutions.

Based on insights from senior telecommunication leaders across the digitally ascending markets of India, Vietnam, and the Philippines,

the report maps telcos' 2G-to-4G migration, identifies persistent barriers to digital inclusion, and outlines how decision-makers are rethinking innovation and business strategies amid network transitions. The research also reveals the shift we're seeing in digital inclusion becoming a strategic business priority, underscoring affordable access as the next frontier for growth.

"Telcos are racing to the future with 5G, but growth won't come from the top alone," said Shioupyn Shen, CEO of CloudMosa. "The real opportunity lies in those being left behind in the migration to 4G and beyond. This report is a call to action for industry leaders: those who move first to bridge the affordability gap will shape the next decade of the industry."

Rising demands for affordable connectivity

Telcos are now at a crossroads. According to the B-Gap Barometer, 62% of operators across India, Vietnam, and the Philippines have already completed their 2G shutdowns, and another 26% are prepared for migration. Yet, despite the rapid progress in network infrastructure to support 4G, large populations still rely heavily on 2G networks. This is particularly evident in India, where 40% reported that up to half their company's user base is still on 2G networks.

Despite existing network coverage, many users remain offline because affordability still prevents underserved consumers from fully participating in the digital economy – a challenge CloudMosa has termed the "B-Gap".

In the Philippines, 66% of telco leaders cite costly data plans as consumers' top barriers in transitioning to 4G and beyond. Vietnam and India follow closely, with 57% and 51% reflecting a similar sentiment. While more users are aiming to upgrade to smartphones – 73% in Vietnam and 62% in the Philippines – many still lean on feature phones given cost limitations. Seventy-five percent of Indian users still prefer traditional feature phones, driven by cost, simplicity, and reliability.

While the rest of the world is rushing towards 5G, these users present the region's most overlooked commercial opportunity and telcos are uniquely positioned to move them up the value chain to ultimately close this gap. Doing so will unlock revenue, drive education, employment, economic mobility, and social inclusion.

Why inclusion is now a business imperative

As telcos continue to grapple with legacy network costs, stagnant average rate per user, or how to expand to underserved markets, digital inclusion is no longer a CSR initiative. It is becoming a critical commercial strategy to reach more users across digitally ascending markets.

A staggering 97% of industry players across three markets pointed to digital inclusion as a central component of their business strategy, with the biggest driver being bridging the digital divide (71%), followed by aligning with CSR goals (56%). More than half (53%) see inclusion helping with market expansion, customer retention and loyalty. The benefits are multifaceted, but the bottom line is clear: digital inclusion is a business growth engine that telcos can't afford to ignore.

Driving the future of inclusive connectivity

While tech affordability has long been a challenge, key players are now presented with a solution in the form of cloud-based mobile devices to reach wider communities. Developed by CloudMosa, Cloud Phone is a breakthrough solution that transforms low-cost feature phones into modern, internet-capable devices. By shifting computing and data processing to the cloud, Cloud Phone delivers seamless online experiences that were previously out of reach for users on basic handsets.

In fact, telco leaders feel positively about this technology in helping to bridge the gap for billions of people worldwide that still lack crucial access. Ninety-one percent believe this solution can help close the B-Gap, with another 90% interested in its potential to dramatically improve UX for low-income users. Eighty-five percent have even cited running premium applications on low-cost devices as an attractive feature.

"We're not just bringing the internet to feature phones — we're unlocking opportunity for billions," Shen added. "What we've built with Cloud Phone introduces a new growth model for telecom carriers, phone manufacturers and content providers. We want to show the mobile ecosystem how doing good doesn't need to come at the expense of profitability. Telcos can still achieve commercial success while providing solutions that meet people where they are."

What's next: The business playbook for telcos

Traditionally viewed as low revenue customers, 2G feature phone users now represent a significant untapped opportunity. With cloud-based solutions reducing device and data costs, telcos can serve this segment profitably, offering app-based services on feature phones that operate like smartphones.

Solutions such as Cloud Phone offer a high-margin innovation platform to tackle the challenges telcos are facing by unlocking new growth while enabling digital transformation and wider business goals. Along with the right partnerships and business models, telcos can transform inclusion into real impact.

About the B-Gap Barometer Report

Strategic expansion and PSDC partnership set to accelerate Industry 4.0 adoption and talent development in Northern Malaysia

PENANG, June 18 (Bernama) -- KUKA Robotics Malaysia, a subsidiary of Germany-headquartered KUKA — a global leader in intelligent automation solutions and majority-owned by China’s Midea Group – today marked a significant milestone with the official launch of its new Penang branch in Bandar Cassia, Batu Kawan. This strategic move reinforces the company’s commitment to advancing industrial automation and robotics innovation in Malaysia and across the Asia-Pacific Economic region.
 
The ceremony was graced by YB Tuan Jagdeep Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister II of Penang, alongside senior representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), InvestPenang, and key industry leaders.
 
Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, congratulated KUKA on its office expansion to Penang, stating, “KUKA’s expansion into Penang underscores Malaysia's robust industrial ecosystem and the growing demand for advanced automation solutions. This new office will assume a key role in supporting our high-technology industries through closer customer engagement, enhanced technical services, and the development of local talent. The initiative is well aligned with the goals of the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, particularly in building Malaysia’s strengths in smart automation.”
 
This expansion follows KUKA’s successful establishment of its first Malaysian office in Puchong, Selangor and represents a strategic move to support Northern Malaysia's growing prominence in high-tech manufacturing and smart automation.
 
During the ceremony, KUKA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC) to collaborate on robotics training and workforce development — a key initiative aligned with Malaysia’s Industry 4.0 vision.
 
“Penang’s strength in advanced manufacturing makes it the ideal location for KUKA’s next chapter. We are proud to partner with state agencies and PSDC to shape the next generation of industrial talent,” said Mr. Tean Shen Zen, CEO of KUKA Southeast Asia.
 
“KUKA's investment in Penang reflects our confidence in Malaysia as a strategic partner for innovation in automation and robotics,” added Mr. Alan Fam, Chief Regional Officer, KUKA APeC.

The new facility features:

• State-of-the-art Application Center showcasing KUKA's latest robotic solutions

• Advanced demonstration areas for electronics, automotive, logistics, and medical applications

• Swisslog AutoStore demo facility highlighting intralogistics capabilities

• Training facilities for workforce development programmes

With this latest expansion, KUKA strengthens its footprint in Malaysia and reinforces its commitment to supporting the nation's Industry 4.0 transformation. The Penang branch is set to serve as a regional hub for innovation, technical support, and talent engagement — empowering businesses across sectors to embrace smarter, more efficient automation solutions.

SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd today announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership for its Upstream business with Beicip-Franlab, a leading geoscience and reservoir technology company, and AFED Digital, a specialist in advanced AI and digital solutions. Together, they have entered into a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) via TriCipta AI, a pioneering venture aimed at accelerating hydrocarbon discovery, reducing uncertainties, and maximising recovery sustainably across PETRONAS Carigali’s operations.

The partnership will initially focus on delivering high-impact and tangible AI solutions to directly address key challenges in exploration, development, and production. Built on a long-term vision of collaborative success, the strategic partnership reflects PETRONAS’ drive towards operational excellence and future readiness across its value chain.

PETRONAS Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Upstream, Mohd Jukris Abdul Wahab said, “This partnership reflects PETRONAS’ firm commitment to collaborate for a future-ready Upstream digital and technology ecosystem. By integrating advanced AI and data-driven solutions across the value chain, PETRONAS is reinforcing our position as a resilient and adaptive upstream player.”

This strategic move underscores PETRONAS’ enduring drive for innovation and growth through partnerships, to deliver advantaged barrels in meeting sustainable energy needs.

Issued by
Media Communications 
Group Strategic Relations & Communications
PETRONAS
 
SOURCE: PETRONAS

SHAH ALAM, June 18 (Bernama) -- At the 55th International Paris Air Show (16–22 June 2025, Le Bourget), Menteri Besar Selangor (Pemerbadanan) or MBI Selangor and the National Aerospace Industry Corporation (NAICO) are jointly highlighting their strategic commitment to talent development through the Selangor Aero Park @KLIA Aeropolis and broader initiatives across Selangor. 

As part of their showcase at the Malaysian Pavilion (Hall 3, Stand D94), MBI Selangor and NAICO will unveil a coordinated suite of talent development programmes focused on building a resilient and future-ready aerospace workforce. These initiatives are structured around three key pillars: 

• Development of a Centralised Talent Hub: MBI Selangor and NAICO are exploring the establishment of an Aerospace Talent Centre (ATC) within Selangor Aero Park or other mutually agreed locations. The ATC will serve as a centralised platform for training, reskilling, upskilling, and aerospace-related research, supporting the development of both new and existing talent in the sector.

• Research and Technological Advancement: The partnership will facilitate government–industry–academia collaboration in areas such as advanced manufacturing, composite structures, digitalisation, and emerging aerospace technologies, aimed at driving innovation and ensuring Malaysia remains at the forefront of aerospace capabilities.

• Competency Development via MyAERO Centre: MBI Selangor will collaborate closely with the MyAERO Centre, leveraging it as a key strategic resource hub for competency enhancement. Both parties will participate in aerospace programmes, projects, and national initiatives coordinated through the MyAERO platform. 

“Our approach places talent at the core of Selangor Aero Park’s vision—ensuring we shape, attract and retain the next generation of aerospace professionals,” said YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, Menteri Besar of Selangor. 

By collaborating on training capacity and structured pathways, MBI Selangor and NAICO are building a sustainable pipeline of aerospace talent to support both local and global industry needs.

This focus on talent is aligned with Malaysia’s national aerospace aspirations and the Selangor Aerospace Action Plan. Selangor currently accounts for over 65% of the country’s aerospace industry activity, with expectations to exceed 70% by 2030. With key projects like GE Aerospace’s facility and the development of smart infrastructure within Selangor Aero Park already underway, talent readiness is pivotal to supporting long-term industry growth. 

Throughout the event, MBI Selangor and NAICO will host a series of engagements— including in-booth briefings and bilateral meetings with OEMs, MRO operators, academia, and investors—to position Selangor Aero Park as a talent-rich, innovation-driven hub for ASEAN’s aerospace ecosystem.

About Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) (MBI Selangor) 

Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated)  (“MBI Selangor”) was established under the Menteri Besar Selangor Enactment (Enactment No: 3 1994) on 21 September 1994. MBI Selangor is a body that was established to administer assets and investments of the State Government, and to represent the State in economic and business activities that are beyond the state government’s jurisdictions. MBI Selangor also plays a role towards promoting and supporting the state government’s development efforts as well as to carry out social responsibility obligations for the public.
 
MBI Selangor is also driving the key economic thrusts under the Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1) launched by Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari, Selangor Chief Minister, in July 2022.
 
SOURCE: Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) (MBI Selangor) 

Strengthens Capital Base with Paradigm REIT Listing on Bursa Malaysia

PETALING JAYA, 18 JUNE 2025 – WCT Holdings Berhad (“WCT” or “the Group”), an investment holding company with businesses in engineering and construction, property development and investment in and management of retail malls and hotels, successfully concluded its 14 th Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) today at Le Méridien Petaling Jaya.

The board of directors present at the 14^th AGM. From left: Mr. Ng Soon Lai @ Ng Siek Chuan (Independent Non-Executive Director), Puan Rahana Binti Abdul Rashid (Independent Non-Executive Director), Datuk Ab Wahab Bin Khalil (Independent Non-Executive Director), Dato’ Lee Tuck Fook (Group Managing Director), Datuk Chow Ying Choon (Deputy Managing Director), Dato’ Ng Sooi Lin (Independent Non-Executive Director)& Tan Sri Marzuki Bin Mohd Noor (Independent Non-Executive Director)

All nine resolutions tabled at the AGM were duly passed by shareholders, reflecting continued confidence in the Group’s leadership and strategic direction. Key resolutions included the re-election of directors, reappointment of external auditors, and authorisation for the issuance of shares. Shareholders also received the Group’s Audited Financial Statements for the financial year ended 31 December 2024, along with the accompanying Reports of Directors and Auditors.

Dato’ Lee Tuck Fook, Group Managing Director of WCT, said, “In 2024, WCT remained steadfast in executing our strategic priorities across the Group’s three core business pillars. Despite economic headwinds, cost volatility, and evolving regulatory frameworks, we remained agile – anchored by financial discipline, operational efficiency, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Malaysia’s continued economic recovery, underpinned by improved consumer sentiment, increased infrastructure spending, and a stabilising labour market, has provided a supportive backdrop for our performance.”

For the financial year ended 31 December 2024, WCT recorded revenue of RM1.83 billion, up from RM1.73 billion in the previous year. The Group returned to profitability with RM277.9 million in profit attributable to equity holders – marking a turnaround from the RM254.1 million loss in FY2023. The positive result was supported by stronger contributions from all business segments and a net gain after tax of RM183.8 million arising from the remeasurement of interest in a jointly controlled entity. These achievements reflect the Group’s resilient operating model and effective execution of strategic initiatives.

Looking ahead, WCT remains focused on sustainable growth across its core divisions. The Engineering and Construction Division continues to pursue new infrastructure opportunities while improving efficiency. The Property Development Division is supported by a healthy project pipeline, including upcoming property launches at W City Larkinton, Johor Bahru and WCity OUG, Kuala Lumpur. Strong domestic spending and a rebound in tourist arrivals are expected to continue driving growth across the Group’s retail mall operations—particularly at its airport malls—as well as in the hospitality and business aviation segments. Meanwhile, the continued recovery in travel and tourism, supported by national initiatives such as Visit Malaysia 2026, positions the Group’s hospitality and aviation businesses to strengthen their market presence and diversify revenue streams.

The successful listing of Paradigm REIT (“REIT”) on 10 June 2025 marks a key milestone in the Group’s asset monetisation and capital recycling strategy. The REIT, comprising three premier retail assets valued at approximately RM2.4 billion, enables WCT to unlock asset value while maintaining strategic exposure through its significant unit holdings. This listing not only enhances balance sheet strength via partial cash proceeds but also positions the Group to benefit from recurring income streams and future capital appreciation. The REIT platform will provide greater financial flexibility and acquisition headroom going forward.

“While global economic uncertainties persist, we remain cautiously optimistic about the Group’s prospects. Our diversified business portfolio and strategic initiatives position us well to navigate challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities in the year ahead,” concluded Dato’ Lee.

About WCT Holdings Berhad

Established in 1981 and listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia since 1995, WCT Holdings Berhad is a leading investment holding company with a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees and presence in six countries. The Group is primarily involved in three core businesses: engineering and construction, property development, and property investment & management. WCT’s engineering and construction expertise covers F1 racing circuits, airports, dam and water supply scheme, expressways and highways, civil works, buildings, and rail-based infrastructure works.

Its property development and investment & management portfolio includes townships, luxury homes, high-rise residences, integrated commercial developments, concession assets, hotels, and shopping malls. The Group owns and operates two shopping malls-gateway@klia2 and SkyPark Terminal in Selangor – as well as three hotels: Première Hotel in Klang, Le Méridien Petaling Jaya, and Hyatt Place Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall. WCT currently holds a land bank of approximately 179 acres in Malaysia.

In addition, WCT holds an effective 60.7% equity stake in Paradigm REIT, which in turn owns the three shopping malls – i.e. Bukit Tinggi Shopping Centre, Paradigm Mall Petaling Jaya, and Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru.