Patented biometric and AI technology helps businesses fight sophisticated identity fraud while providing full control
SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 19 (Bernama) -- Jumio, the leader in AI-powered identity intelligence anchored in biometric authentication, automation and data-driven insights, today announced general availability of Jumio Liveness Premium with advanced deepfake detection, the company’s most advanced biometric liveness detection solution to date.
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad ("SME Bank") has released the results of its SME Sentiment Index for the first half of 2025 (“1H 2025”), reflecting continued confidence among Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (“MSMEs”) despite anticipating economic and financial challenges arising from the United States’ Tariff announcement. The latest index serves as a timely barometer of entrepreneurial sentiment, combining MSME perspectives with forward-looking indicators to provide valuable insights into the evolving business landscape and Malaysia’s economic trajectory.
“SME Bank’s SME Sentiment Index registered a solid 55.2 in the first half of 2025, reflecting continued optimism among entrepreneurs nationwide. While this marks a slight moderation from 55.8 in the previous half, the index remains well above the neutral level of 50, indicating steady confidence despite a softening from the strong post-COVID rebound observed in earlier surveys. Entrepreneurs are showing more cautious optimism, citing softer expectations around sales, expansion, and hiring. This sentiment echoes broader economic signs, reflecting recalibration in alignment with the MADANI Economic Framework, which prioritises sustainable, inclusive growth. While short-term sentiment has softened, Malaysia remains on a steady growth path, supported by structural reforms, high-quality investments, and a focus on resilience and shared prosperity,” said Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting Group President/Chief Executive Officer of SME Bank.
Key Highlights at a Glance:
Lynette Lee Li Qing, SME Bank’s Chief Economist commented, “As a leading economic indicator, this SME Sentiment Index suggests that Malaysia’s overall economy will continue to expand in 2025, albeit at a modest pace. Our 1Q 2025 GDP growth eased to 4.4% YoY (4Q 2024: 4.9%), the lowest since 1Q 2024 (4.2%) which signals a weak start to the year as it slipped off the official 2025 GDP forecast range (4.5% - 5.5%). World Bank has recently revised Malaysia’s GDP growth forecast down to 3.9%, alongside a cut in global growth due to heightened uncertainties arising from trade tension. Nonetheless, Malaysia’s growth rate is still above some regional peers such as Thailand (3.1%) and Singapore (3.9%).”
“The more measured optimism reflected in the Index is consistent with other leading indicators, including Department of Statistics Malaysia's (“DOSM”) Leading Index which predicts softer economic conditions in the coming months,” she added.
The SME Sentiment Index survey, conducted between January and April 2025, hit a new record high of 2,007 respondents (2H 2025: 1,485), encompassing participants from 39 sectors and across all business sizes. This comprehensive study provided valuable insights into the perspectives and experiences of MSMEs, delivering a broad overview of the business landscape that serves as a benchmark for future economic performance. The full SME Sentiment Index 1H 2025 report, published by SME Bank, can be accessed at: https://go.smebank.com.my/
SOURCE: SME Bank
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- NMB (NanoMalaysia Berhad), a CLBG under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), and Cement Industries of Malaysia Berhad (CIMA), a wholly-owned subsidiary of UEM Group Berhad, today announced the signing of a strategic partnership to drive the development of Graphene Enhanced Concrete – a groundbreaking sustainable building material locking in solid carbon derived from greenhouse gas atmospheric emission, aimed at transforming Malaysia’s construction industry by addressing critical environmental and performance challenges.
How Gen Z is Using Snacks to Express values, Build Community, and Share Culture
PepsiCo is adapting by meeting them in content – and building a strategy shaped for the TikTok generation
In a world where livestreams double as shopping malls and Gen Z treats snacks like selfie props, the rules of consumer engagement have changed. For the next generation of shoppers, flavour is just the starting point. What matters just as much is how a product looks in their feed, how it connects to their values, and whether it earns a like before it earns a sale.
PepsiCo sees this shift not as a disruption, but as a call to action.
“Gen Z doesn’t separate content from commerce, or consumption from conversation”, said Aditya Ahuja, Cluster GM for PepsiCo Foods Malaysia and the Philippines. “So we don’t just think in terms of snacks. We think in terms of experiences that resonate across their culture, values, and community”.
The Rise of the Social Snack
PepsiCo’s recent innovations show how this thinking plays out in real time.
Take Lay’s Double Crunch – an intense-flavoured, deep-ridged snack launched to complement the moments that matter most to Gen Z: late-night study breaks, brainstorming sessions, gaming streams. Its bold packaging, built with digital impact in mind, was designed not just to sit on shelves but to pop in TikTok feeds and Instagram Stories.
This visual-first approach came full circle in April, when Lay’s launched its UEFA Jumbo Pack, featuring football icon Lionel Messi. The collectible design helped drive real-time engagement during a livestream on TikTok Shop, where a single session accounted for 70% of total Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) – proving just how strongly Gen Z responds to products designed to feel timely, exclusive, and inherently shareable.
It’s part of a broader shift PepsiCo is leaning into – a world where snacks are built to be scrolled, shared, and celebrated just as much as they are to be eaten.
Turning Engagement into Conversion
PepsiCo’s embrace of digital commerce in Malaysia goes beyond aesthetics. The company is rapidly scaling its presence on platforms where Gen Z lives and shops – especially TikTok.
Its livestream commerce strategy has shown huge promise, yielding 25 livestreaming hours per month and reaching 30,000+ shoppers monthly through livestream selling, creator-led demos, and buzz-worthy product drops. Paired with occasion-driven partnerships and quick commerce bundles, these initiatives earned the company the Foodpanda Collaborative Excellence Award, a recognition of PepsiCo’s ability to blend shopper-centric thinking with both speed and scale.
“We’re not adapting to trends – we’re anticipating behaviours”, added Aditya. “We study what makes Gen Z tick, and then we design with intention, not random gimmicks. That’s how we’ve turned TikTok from an awareness channel into a commerce engine”.
Purpose with a Payoff
For today’s consumers, product isn’t enough – values matter. PepsiCo’s strategy in Malaysia reflects a dual focus: making a difference in the community and supporting healthier everyday choices.
One of its biggest commitments is tackling food insecurity, both globally and at home. In 2024, to observe World Food Day, PepsiCo partnered with The Assembly Soup Kitchen (TASK) to distribute 1,000 food packs to underserved communities in Kuala Lumpur’s Chow Kit area – benefitting refugee school students, the homeless, and B40 families. It’s part of a larger global mission that has seen the company contribute over USD 14 million (approximately RM59 million) to the World Food Programme to date.
At the same time, health-conscious Gen Z consumers continue to shape how PepsiCo reformulates its offerings. The Quaker 3-in-1 range now features less sugar and sodium, striking the right balance between modern nutrition and familiar taste. And with the Jom Quaker Fit rewards programme, each purchase becomes a gateway to something more – spa passes, gym vouchers, and healthy dining deals – blending wellness with digital engagement in a way that speaks to this generation’s lifestyle.
Building Belonging Through Community
PepsiCo’s connection with Gen Z goes deeper than product design or platform strategy. It’s also about fostering a sense of community and shared purpose, where every campaign becomes a chance for young consumers to see themselves reflected, included, and involved.
Football is one of the strongest forces of connection in Malaysia, and PepsiCo tapped into this collective passion to bring communities together through Lay’s. This year’s UEFA Champions League campaign didn’t just offer a ticket giveaway – it created a shared celebration of football culture across 60 locations, uniting more than 80,000 fans through interactive games, community challenges and on-the-ground experiences that turned everyday places into hubs of excitement and belonging.
By pairing real-world engagement with social storytelling, the campaign built moments that felt as personal as they were shareable. And with the upcoming FIFA 2026 partnership on the horizon, PepsiCo is doubling down on this approach – embedding Lay’s in the heart of communities that don’t just watch football, but live it together.
“Today’s generation doesn’t want to be spoken to – they want to be invited in”, said Aditya. “By creating shared experiences around the things they care about, like football, we’re not just showing up in their world, we’re becoming part of it.”
Looking Ahead
As Gen Z reshapes the consumer landscape with every swipe, scroll, and stream, PepsiCo’s strategy in Malaysia offers a clear blueprint: meet them where they are, speak the language they live in, and build a brand that belongs in their world, not just their pantry.
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Selangor Techsphere Summit 2025: Shaping the Future of Industry in Malaysia
Selangor is stepping into the spotlight as Malaysia’s next big hub for high-tech industry and innovation. In a joint effort with the Selangor State Government, global exhibition leader Deutsche Messe (through its regional arm, Hannover Fairs Asia Pacific) is bringing the Selangor Techsphere Summit 2025, a two-day event inspired by the globally renowned Hannover Messe.
Set to take place on 11 – 12 November 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the summit will spotlight the rise of Industry X, where advanced manufacturing meets artificial intelligence, robotics, and clean energy. With investments pouring into Selangor in these sectors, the summit aims to connect forward-thinking businesses with cutting-edge technologies.
“Selangor is not just welcoming the future of industry – it's building it,” said Tim Bostridge, Managing Director of Hannover Fairs Asia Pacific. “By combining AI, next-gen manufacturing and sustainable energy, Selangor is setting a new benchmark for Southeast Asia.”
The event also reflects Malaysia’s broader push for high-value, digital-led growth, in line with the Digital Economy Blueprint. Selangor’s proactive strategies and infrastructure are attracting global companies looking for a future-ready industrial base.
According to the organisers, the summit is more than just an exhibition – it’s a platform to shape long-term collaboration, encourage investment, and develop local innovation. The state is also positioning itself to nurture emerging tech “unicorns” and boost sectors like semiconductors, E&E (electrical and electronics), and IT.
“This is a proud moment for Selangor,” said a representative from the state government. “The Techsphere Summit is part of our journey to becoming a Smart, Liveable and Prosperous State by 2025. It supports the goals of RS-1 and reflects our commitment to industrial modernisation and tech-driven growth.”
To kick things off, a soft launch will be held on June 13, 2025, providing a preview of the summit’s goals and direction. The event, held at Hotel Tenera in Bandar Baru Bangi, will bring together key stakeholders, industry players and media representatives for an early look at how Selangor plans to lead the next industrial wave.
For more information : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Wishes Take Root at Exchange 106: Inaugural Wishing Tree @ Exchange 106 Debuts with Affin Hwang and Mercy Malaysia
Exchange 106, in collaboration with Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad (AFFIN HWANG) and MERCY Malaysia, have officially launched the inaugural Wishing Tree @ Exchange 106, a meaningful initiative aimed at supporting disaster relief efforts while uniting corporate and community action. With support from a curated group of local merchants, the campaign is turning Malaysia’s tallest tower into a symbol of hope and humanitarian impact.
The Wishing Tree @ Exchange 106 is built upon two key pillars that embody the spirit of corporate-community collaboration: the Launching of Wishing Tree @ Exchange 106 and a purpose-driven Fundraising Bazaar. Held at the iconic Exchange 106, the launch ceremony served as a symbolic platform where donors could select real-life "wishes" representing the immediate and pressing needs of underserved communities. Each fulfilled wish acts as a catalyst for meaningful change, turning hope into tangible opportunities and fostering deep connections across society.
Complementing the launch is the Fundraising Bazaar, hosted at Menara AFFIN, TRX, from 23 to 26 June 2025. This community-focused marketplace features a curated lineup of merchants, each contributing a portion of their proceeds to the MERCY Malaysia Disaster Relief Fund, integrating consumer participation with real-world humanitarian impact.
Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah, President & Group Chief Executive Officer of AFFIN Group, underscored the partnership’s significance, stating, “Our partnership with MERCY Malaysia reflects AFFIN Group’s unwavering commitment to making a positive difference. Whatever we touch, we want to leave it in a better state than when we found it. MERCY Malaysia’s strong track record in humanitarian and community outreach aligns with our sustainability goals, ensuring that our contributions create meaningful and lasting impact.”
He added, “Guided by AFFIN Group’s Axelerate 2028 (AX28) Plan through Unrivalled Customer Service, Digital Leadership, and Responsible Banking With Impact, we are committed to embedding sustainability at the heart of our business strategy, while inspiring our employees, partners, and stakeholders to take an active role in building a more inclusive and resilient Malaysia.”
Dato’ Dr. Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus, President of MERCY Malaysia, also emphasised the value of such partnerships: “Collaborations like this demonstrate the power of public-private partnerships in delivering timely humanitarian aid. We’re proud to partner with Affin Hwang Investment Bank in ensuring that every ringgit raised contributes directly to urgent disaster relief efforts, bringing hope and compassion to the most vulnerable communities.”
He continued, “This collaboration exemplifies the strength of cross-sector partnerships in creating meaningful, community-driven impact. Through the combined efforts of dedicated humanitarian organisations, venue collaborators, and socially conscious merchants, the Wishing Tree @ Exchange 106 reflects how collective purpose can spark real change across Malaysia’s financial and corporate ecosystem.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Patrick Honan, Chief Operating Officer of Exchange 106, said, “At Exchange 106, we believe that buildings should do more than serve as physical spaces. They should become catalysts for collective progress. Hosting the Wish Tree aligns with our vision of transforming ESG aspirations into visible, public action. We are honoured to support this campaign and play a role in connecting corporate Malaysia to meaningful community impact.”
He added, “Together, with dedicated humanitarian organisations, venue collaborators, and socially conscious merchants, the Wishing Tree @ Exchange 106 exemplifies how a collective culture of care can spark real and measurable change within Malaysia’s corporate and financial landscape.”
The Fundraising Bazaar featured a diverse range of local merchants, including Sometime by Asian Designers, Watsons Malaysia, Chef Kecik, Tile Concept, Micro Garden, i-Scent, Ho Ho Musang King, Ambon Boenda, Hi-Bliss, Kyuji, NALE, and SMC Marketing & Advertising Sdn. Bhd., each contributing to the cause through their participation and shared commitment to giving back.
The campaign is expected to reach over 13,000 professionals across the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) district, fostering a deeper ESG awareness and community engagement. All proceeds are governed under AFFIN HWANG’s transparent ESG framework, aligned with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Climate Change & Principle-based Taxonomy (CCPT).
Members of the public and the TRX community are encouraged to visit the Fundraising Bazaar to shop for a cause and support the Wishing Tree initiative.
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“Go Healthy with Taiwan” Global Call for Proposals
Malaysian Innovators Invited to Co-Create a Healthier World with Taiwan
Taiwan is calling on global partners—including Malaysian institutions and innovators—to join its latest global initiative: “Go Healthy with Taiwan.” This global call for proposals aims to foster international collaboration by inviting creative project ideas that integrate Taiwan’s cutting-edge health technologies and quality solutions.
Organized by the International Trade Administration (TITA), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Taiwan, and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the campaign seeks to engage governments, institutions, enterprises, and organizations from around the world to submit innovative proposals. The organizers aim to promote sustainable and healthier lifestyles globally— especially in fast-growing markets like Malaysia.
Health Meets Innovation
The campaign focuses on five key areas where Taiwan holds global leadership: 1. Smart Healthcare Technologies
Taiwan—known as the "Bicycle Kingdom" and a global hub for AI-powered fitness and health tech—is actively seeking international collaborators to co-develop and localize innovative solutions. With Malaysia’s growing health, wellness, and smart city sectors, this initiative presents a prime opportunity for bilateral cooperation.
Pitching Taiwan’s Best – Win USD 30,000!
Top 3 proposals will each receive USD 30,000 (approx. RM127,000) and be invited to explore further collaboration with Taiwanese enterprises. The submission deadline is 14 August 2025, and high-quality entries will also receive matchmaking support and exposure on the global stage. A Home Run for Global Health
At the campaign launch event in Taipei on June 3, the theme “Pitching Taiwan’s Best: A Home Run for Proposals!” came to life with a baseball-themed setting. Taiwanese baseball star An-Ko Lin and FuBear, the beloved mascot of Taiwan Excellence, hit symbolic “home runs” to represent Taiwan’s proactive approach to global health collaboration.
Ms. Susan Hu, Deputy Director General of TITA, emphasized that this campaign is aligned with Taiwan’s national goal of building a “Healthy Taiwan,” while also contributing to international wellness efforts. Mr. Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of TAITRA, noted that Taiwan’s world class manufacturing, ICT, and R&D capabilities are perfectly positioned to support innovative health solutions worldwide.
Join the Movement!
Last year’s “Go Green with Taiwan” campaign attracted 396 proposals from 45 countries. This year, Taiwan aims to surpass 500 submissions from all five continents—and hopes to see strong participation from Malaysia’s vibrant innovation community.
For more information and to submit your proposal, visit:
gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org
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Sunway Medical Centre Launches Genomic Medicine Services, Enhancing Personalised and Preventive Healthcare in Malaysia
Sunway Healthcare Group’s first hospital-based genomic medicine services to deliver integrated diagnostics and personalised clinical support for patients and families.
In a milestone for Malaysian healthcare, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) has launched its Genomic Medicine Services within the newly opened Health Screening Department - the second screening department within the hospital, designed to serve both local and international patients. It is the first hospital-based facility of its kind within the Sunway Healthcare Group. These services integrate genomic science into clinical care, supporting more informed, patient-specific healthcare approaches in Malaysia and the region.
As genomic medicine continues to reshape global healthcare, these services contribute to Malaysia’s progress in genomic services by providing access to advanced testing and insights previously limited to specialised international institutions. From earlier diagnoses to tailored treatments, these services add a new layer of data-informed care for patient management.
Addressing Malaysia’s Evolving Healthcare Needs
Malaysia, like many developing countries, is facing a dual healthcare challenge: an ageing population with rising rates of chronic conditions, and a growing number of patients living with undiagnosed or misdiagnosed rare diseases. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey, nearly 1 in 6 adults live with diabetes, while over 1 in 3 have high blood pressure. At the same time, rare and genetic conditions continue to go undetected due to limited access to advanced diagnostic tools. The Genomic Medicine Services aims to address this gap by offering timely and relevant genetic insights that support early intervention and improved care planning.
A New Era of Personalised, Predictive Medicine
Through these new services, patients will have access to a comprehensive range of genomic testing services, including whole exome sequencing, couple carrier screening, hereditary cancer risk screening, liquid biopsy for cancer screening, rare disease diagnostics, etc. These services are seamlessly integrated with Sunway Medical Centre’s multidisciplinary care model, ensuring that genomic insights are not only generated but translated into actionable steps for patient management.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Khoo Chow Huat, Managing Director of Hospital & Healthcare Operations at Sunway Healthcare Group, said, “At Sunway Medical Centre, our goal is not just to treat illness but to stay ahead of it. The launch of these services reflects our vision for a future where healthcare is personalised to each patient’s needs and risks, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. We are proud to offer Malaysian patients access to precision medicine that is on par with the world’s best.”
Improving Diagnostic Pathways for Paediatrics and Rare Conditions
For many families, especially those with children who have complex or unexplained symptoms, a diagnosis can take years. Known as the “diagnostic odyssey,” this prolonged process can be emotionally exhausting and delay critical treatments.
These services hope to change that. With tools like whole exome sequencing, it may help identify potential genetic causes of conditions through comprehensive testing, cutting years of uncertainty into weeks of clarity.
Advancing Leadership in Genomic Healthcare
Beyond serving patients, the genomic services are designed to play a larger role in Malaysia’s healthcare landscape, and the hospital is committed to making genomic testing accessible to more Malaysians.
With the launch of the Genomic Medicine Services at the hospital’s Health Screening Department, Sunway Medical Centre reinforces its role as a healthcare pioneer, committed to integrating innovative diagnostic technologies into patient care. The Genomic Medicine Services are now open to the public. They can be accessed through physical or virtual consultation by physician referrals or self-enquiries.
As Malaysia’s largest private quaternary hospital, Sunway Medical Centre continues to lead with innovation and impact. The hospital has been ranked Malaysia’s No. 1 hospital in 2025, and listed among the World’s Top 250 Hospitals in 2024 and 2025, by Newsweek, a recognition that reflects its ongoing pursuit of clinical excellence and its leadership in patient-centred care.
Taiwan Expo 2025 in Malaysia Opens Doors
to New Partnerships from June 23
Receiving Strong Support from 26 Malaysian Trade Associations and Chambers
TAIWAN EXPO 2025 in Malaysia is set to take place from June 23 to 25, 2025, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). Over 200 Taiwanese exhibitors will showcase their products and services, focusing on five key themes: AI & Industry 4.0, Health & Wellness, Green & Sustainability, Smart Lifestyle, and Culture & Tourism. In addition to exploring 10 thematic pavilions and five featured industrial zones, trade visitors will have the opportunity to participate in one-on-one business matching, the AI Innovation Seminar, and various industry-related workshops and presentations. The Expo aims to provide participants with the latest industrial trends, insights, and diverse business opportunities from Taiwan—all under one roof.
Sneak Preview of Real-world AI Applications
Participants who attended the Official Launch of the Expo on 10 June were treated to a sneak preview of the highly anticipated AI and advanced healthcare applications. The AI-driven medical innovations on display include V5MED Inc.’s AI-powered lung cancer detection systems and Alpha Intelligence Manifolds Inc.’s DeepXray AI-assisted diagnosis and monitoring devices for osteoporosis and degenerative arthritis. Other notable technologies comprise CloudMile Inc.’s enterprise digital solutions with AI integration; InWin Development Inc.’s commercial water-cooled server designed with advanced heat dissipation to meet the cooling needs of high-load AI chips.
Unitech Electronics Co., Ltd showcased its rugged industrial PDA equipped with barcode scanning and RFID capabilities. Energy-saving building materials specialist Zirco Applied Materials Co. introduced its Uplus The One Solar Film, which boasts outstanding heat insulation properties that reduce air conditioning energy consumption by 18% and is already in use at Changi Airport, Singapore. Other notable products include the Healthin Energy Wear from Healthin International Co., Ltd, halal-certified fruit and vegetable enzymes from Jialian Biotech Group, winter melon tea bricks from Forever Sweety Sugar Trade Company, and many more. The exhibits highlighted Taiwan's robust industrial strength and its diversity in healthcare, environmental protection, and cultural diversity, while allowing attendees to have first-hand exposure to the products and engage in dynamic exchanges with the exhibitors.
Building Exemplary Collaboration between Malaysia and Taiwan’s Complementary Industries
According to Mr. Keven Cheng, Deputy Executive Director of the Market Development Department at TAITRA, the Taiwan Expo in Malaysia has attracted over 1,200 Taiwanese companies since its launch in 2017. This annual event has been highly successful, drawing approximately 160,000 visitors and generating more than USD 400 million in business opportunities. In today’s evolving global supply chain, Taiwan’s advanced technologies in AI, smart healthcare, and sustainability align closely with Malaysia’s development blueprint for the next phase of industrial growth towards net-zero emissions. There is significant potential for collaboration between both countries to build a sustainable, technology-driven future.
Ms. Phoebe Yeh, Representative of the Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Malaysia, stated that bilateral trade between Malaysia and Taiwan reached USD 39.1 billion in 2024, marking a historic annual growth rate of 38.5%. Taiwan is Malaysia’s 4th largest trading partner, and its investment in Malaysia more than doubled year-on-year during the same period, reaching USD 1.29 billion. This makes Taiwan the 7th largest source of direct foreign investment in Malaysia. Currently, over 1,700 Taiwanese companies have significant investments in Malaysia, underscoring the strong economic ties between the two partners.
At the launch ceremony, Mr. Mazlan Harun, Director of the China & Northeast Asia Section at MATRADE, remarked that Taiwan’s expertise in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s efforts to accelerate digital transformation and move up the value chain. He emphasized that the Taiwan Expo provides an excellent platform for enterprises from both sides to accelerate business matching, deepen exchanges, and jointly explore opportunities in regional and global markets for mutual growth and shared prosperity.
Most Anticipated Expo Featuring the Very Best of Taiwan
This year marks the 8th edition of the Taiwan Expo in Malaysia, an event that has garnered overwhelming support from 26 trade associations and chambers, including the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), the Small and Medium Enterprises Association (SME Malaysia), and the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce & Industry in Malaysia (TWCHAM), among others. This strong backing from trade organizations reflects the deep grassroots ties between Malaysia and Taiwan.
During the launch ceremony, Datuk Ada Poon, National Vice President of the SME Association of Malaysia, remarked that Taiwanese companies are renowned for their technological innovation and adaptive management, qualities that have propelled them to become global powerhouses. The Taiwan Expo is poised to further enhance the competitiveness of companies from both countries and foster long-term cooperation. The enthusiastic participation of industry players is encouraging and is expected to elevate Malaysia-Taiwan economic and trade cooperation to new heights.
Taiwan Expo 2025 will be held from 23 to 25 June in Halls 4 and 5 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). The three-day event will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with free admission. Trade visitors who engage in business discussions with participating exhibitors will have the chance to win round-trip air tickets to Taiwan. Business owners and members of the public interested in establishing trade relationships with Taiwanese companies are warmly invited to attend the Expo. For more information or to register attendance, kindly visit the official website at: https://mys.taiwanexpoasean.com/zh-tw/index.html or follow our official Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExpo.mys/
Taiwan Expo 2025 in Malaysia at a glance
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5 Key Themes |
10 Thematic Pavilions |
5 Industrial Zones |
Programs & Activities |
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【Seminars & Stage Presentations】 1. Smart Upgrade: Taiwan AI Technology & Application 2. Greener Together: Taiwan’s Eco Future 3. A New Vision for Healthy Living 4. Stylish Living: Aesthetics of Home Life 5. Taiwan Tech Forward: Solutions for a Connected World 【Stage Activities】 1. Taiwan Excellence - Fu Bear High-Five Record Challenge 2. Taiwan Cultural Performance |
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HEINEKEN Cares: Celebrating Five Years of Supporting Communities in Need
In the past five years, the HEINEKEN Cares Programme transitioned from short-term food aid to enhancing food security and water access for vulnerable communities nationwide
HEINEKEN Malaysia has officially concluded its fifth year of the HEINEKEN Cares programme, reaffirming its commitment to building more resilient communities. Through strategic partnerships, the programme has continued to support vulnerable groups across Malaysia with access to clean water, improved food security, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Guided by its Brew a Better World sustainability strategy, HEINEKEN Malaysia has channelled over RM1.9 million into initiatives that not only address immediate needs but also build the foundation for long-term social and environmental impact.
Launched in 2021 to provide food aid during the pandemic, HEINEKEN Cares has since evolved into a platform that champions community development and empowerment. Today, it focuses on building long-term resilience, from improving clean water access to remote villages, to building small farms that feed families, and equipping communities with tools to build a sustainable livelihood through sustainable aquaponics and vermicomposting. These efforts highlight the programme’s drive to create real, lasting change for communities in need.
Renuka Indrarajah, Corporate Affairs & Legal Director, HEINEKEN Malaysia, commented, “At HEINEKEN Malaysia, we believe that access to food and water is a basic human right. HEINEKEN Cares began as a response to immediate needs, but it soon became clear that lasting change required more. We have since shifted our focus to making long-term impact by empowering local changemakers and building strong partnerships. We're proud of how collective action has uplifted lives and strengthened communities, staying true to our purpose of Brewing the Joy of True Togetherness.”
The most recent HEINEKEN Cares collaboration brought together Hopes Malaysia, PWD Smart FarmAbility, Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia (SIROM), and MyKasih Foundation to address essential community needs. This impactful initiative was made possible through a partnership with Sokong, a digital fundraising platform that supports NGOs, enabling HEINEKEN Cares to extend its reach. In 2024 alone, the programme allocated RM220,000 in support of critical projects nationwide.
Bringing clean water access to rural Sabah through Hopes Malaysia
With its longstanding partnership with HEINEKEN Cares, Hopes Malaysia is expanding access to clean water in rural Sabah for the third consecutive year. After successful projects in Kampung Pinolobuh in 2023 and Kampung Kiau Taburi in 2024, the NGO is now focusing on Kampung Naragai Tuguson, where 41 families will benefit from upgraded gravity-fed water systems.
Aaron Bosuang, Public Executive of Hopes Malaysia, said, “Hopes Malaysia worked with the rural community of Kampung Kiau Taburi to reconstruct their damaged gravity water system’s storage, sustainably improving clean water access for 1,050 villagers. Thank you so much to HEINEKEN Cares for your tremendous belief and support in our humble team's impactful work for the third year running, and Sokong for supporting and funding our sustainable initiative!”
Enhancing food security through local farming with PWD Smart FarmAbility
In Klang Valley, PWD Smart FarmAbility is empowering marginalised groups—including welfare homes, old folks’ homes, orphanages, and youths in need —through aquaponics-based satellite farms. These innovative systems teach communities to sustainably cultivate vegetables and rear fish, boosting food security through self-sufficiency.
Dr. Billy Tang, Project Manager for PWD Smart FarmAbility, commented, “One of our most impactful initiatives was deploying the Soil-U-tion Aquaponics Satellite Farm Proprietary System to underserved communities. These systems enable marginalised groups to sustainably grow vegetables and farm tilapia using regenerative practices. We are deeply grateful to all who contributed—you are making a real difference in building resilience and sustainability.”
Introducing sustainable farming for the Orang Asli in Bentong with SIROM
In Kg Sg. Lebak, Bentong, SIROM has been training the Orang Asli community in sustainable aquaponics and vermicomposting, enhancing access to nutritious food while creating income opportunities. Harvests in May and August 2024 generated RM37,000 in sales, and the next phase will benefit 100 families (392 villagers) through training and expansion.
Joanne Yeoh, Project Manager for SIROM, said, “This project aims to empower the Orang Asli community in Kg Sg. Lebak at Bentong, Pahang. We would like to thank HEINEKEN Cares and Sokong for their support and funding. We hope such collaboration between organisers and the public will showcase how a caring society could come together as one to help the Orang Asli community to break away from the vicious circle of poverty.”
Combating hunger for B40 families with the MyKasih Foundation
Continuing its cashless food aid programme, MyKasih Foundation supports 120 families in Desa Mentari, who each receive RM100 credited to their MyKad to buy essential food items at over 600 retail outlets. This method gives families the dignity and flexibility to meet their daily needs.
Asha C Devi, Programme Manager for MyKasih Foundation, shared, “MyKasih not only aims to improve nutrition through its food aid programme but also strives to transform families through skills training and education to break the poverty cycle and give them hope for a better future. We are grateful that HEINEKEN Malaysia is committed and aligned with our vision to improve the quality of life for the underserved communities.”
Brew a Better World
As HEINEKEN Cares closes another impactful chapter, HEINEKEN Malaysia remains committed to supporting underserved communities through long-term partnerships that deliver sustainable results. Further information on HEINEKEN Malaysia’s initiatives can be found at HEINEKEN Malaysia’s official website https://www.heinekenmalaysia.com/ or SPARK Foundation’s official website: sparkfoundation.com.my.
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