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.

MSMEs Remain Resilient with Sustained Optimism in 1H 2025

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:

• US reciprocal tariff influences MSMEs’ expectation on economic outlook
• Micro businesses foresee better sales performance than previously
• The cost of doing business remains high due to both domestic and international affairs
• MSMEs’ low exposure to external markets is a blessing in disguise
• Slow hiring due to easing sales expectations
• E-invoicing creates a positive impression as implementation kicks in
• Gradual increase in ESG adoption
• Expansion remains as businesses’ top priority, albeit moderating
• MSMEs are deemed to be financially sustainable, but more challenges ahead

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/SI20251HPR.  

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.

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.