NATIONAL READING SURVEY REVEALS STRONG ACADEMIC HABITS BUT LOW LEISURE READING AMONG MALAYSIAN YOUTH

Teacher Nur Wahidah bt. Husain reading to her Year 5 students at the FINCO Interactive Reading Corner (IRC) in SK Ayer Keroh, Malacca.

 KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 30 (Bernama) -- While Malaysia boasts a high general literacy rate of 94.64%, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 results saw Malaysia rank below the international average for reading, with a decline in scores from 415 in 2018 to 388 in 2022, which underscores the severity of low critical literacy rates. Less than half of participating students achieved the minimum proficiency benchmark.

 
A recent survey by the Financial Industry Collective Outreach (FINCO), Reading Culture Amongst Malaysian Students, which received 1,168 responses from primary and secondary school students across Malaysia, found a strong positive link between reading and academic achievement. Students who read less frequently tend to achieve lower average grades, which indicates a pressing need for targeted interventions to cultivate a thriving reading culture, particularly in light of declining international assessment scores.
 
The survey also found that while students demonstrated strong reading habits for academic demands, a significant gap exists in self-initiated leisure reading, with more than a quarter of respondents not reading as a personal hobby.
 
Commenting on these findings, Tan Sri Azman Hashim, Chairman of FINCO said, “It is encouraging to see students engaging deeply with academic texts, but we must also nurture curiosity and joy in reading beyond the classroom. When reading becomes a habit of choice, not just a task, it opens doors to creativity, empathy, and lifelong learning.”
 
The survey also found that students from low-income households—indicated by receipt of free school meals—are twice as likely to read infrequently compared to their peers from higher-income households, and are also less likely to read for pleasure. Limited book availability at home is a compounding factor, with nearly 1 in 3 students having fewer than 10 books at home.
 
A deeper dive into the data shows a correlation between home book availability and reading frequency. Frequent readers are most likely to come from homes with more than 20 books whereas infrequent readers are more likely to have fewer books at home.
 
Primary students who are read to more than four times per week also showed the strongest tendency to have good reading habits, suggesting that the less students are read to on a regular basis, the less likely they are to be frequent readers.
 
Meanwhile, 73% of respondents reporting to be frequent readers read on digital devices on a daily basis, compared to 53% of infrequent readers, suggesting a positive correlation between reading frequency and use of digital devices. 
 
“Digital reading is reshaping how young Malaysians interact with stories and information. As students turn increasingly to screens for both learning and leisure, our goal should be to nurture habits that promote curiosity, comprehension, and critical thinking—empowering them to navigate information wisely and creatively,” said Clare Walker, CEO of FINCO.
 
The report identifies four focus areas for cultivating a strong national reading culture:

• Fostering Interest-Driven Reading: To cultivate a thriving reading culture, schools and communities should utilise digital platforms and visually appealing genres. Expanding access to culturally relevant reading materials can make reading both enjoyable and inclusive, particularly for students from lower-income backgrounds.
• Expanding Access to Reading Materials: Interventions should prioritise expanding both physical and digital access to books, enhancing school and community libraries, and cultivating supportive environments at home and school, moving away from a reliance on extrinsic rewards.
• Cultivating Reading Habits in the Home: Families are encouraged to model reading and establish structured reading routines from a young age, with schools and programmes reinforcing the value of reading for pleasure.
• Leveraging Technology: Educational strategies must actively incorporate digital resources, given the strong link between frequent reading and digital device use. This should include providing guidance to students and parents on online safety and sourcing appropriate reading materials to enhance digital literacy.

The full report can be read on FINCO’s website at www.finco.my/reports.

About the Financial Industry Collective Outreach
The Financial Industry Collective Outreach (FINCO) is a collaborative initiative pioneered by financial institutions in Malaysia with the guidance of Bank Negara Malaysia to provide underprivileged children and youth with the guidance and educational tools they need to achieve their life goals. FINCO seeks to achieve these objectives through inclusive educational initiatives under four strategic pillars - English Proficiency and Life Aspiration, Financial Literacy and Disaster Relief.

FINCO Website: www.finco.my
Instagram: finco_my
Facebook: fincomalaysia
LinkedIn: company/fincomy

SOURCE:  Financial Industry Collective Outreach (FINCO)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Ms. Hannah Jonas
Communications and Event Manager, FINCO
Tel: 014 649 4295
Email: hannah.jonas@finco.my 

--BERNAMA

Datavault AI Inc. Announces Proposed Dividend of Warrants

 

• Record date for the proposed dividend of warrants will be on Jan. 7, 2026
• The warrants are expected to have a striking price of $5.00 per share of Datavault AI common stock (subject to adjustment for recapitalizations, stock splits, stock dividends and similar types of transactions)
• Each eligible participant is expected to be entitled to receive one (1) warrant to purchase one (1) share of Datavault AI common stock for every sixty (60) shares of Datavault AI common stock owned by such participant and is required to open a wallet with Datavault.
   

PHILADELPHIA, Dec 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Datavault AI Inc. (“Datavault AI” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: DVLT), a leader in data monetization, credentialing, and digital engagement technologies, today announced that the Company intends to declare a special dividend distribution of warrants to holders of Datavault AI common stock and holders of certain other Datavault AI equity securities. The expected terms of the warrants are described below. The record date for such proposed dividend is set on Jan. 7, 2026, and the related distribution date has not yet been determined. The Company anticipates that it will announce such information on or before Jan. 7, 2026.

Datavault AI currently anticipates that the terms of the dividend and the warrants to be distributed in connection therewith will include:

• Eligible Participants: All record and beneficial holders of Datavault AI common stock and holders of certain other equity securities of Datavault AI (with contractual rights to participate in the dividend) as of the record date are expected to be eligible to participate in the dividend, at no cost.
• Dividend Ratio: Each eligible participant is expected to be entitled to receive one (1) warrant to purchase one (1) share of Datavault AI common stock for every sixty (60) shares of Datavault AI common stock owned by such participant (or deemed to be owned by such participant in the case of other equity securities of Datavault AI for purposes of determining such holder’s right to participate in any such dividend), in each case as of the record date, rounded up to the nearest whole number of warrants. No fractional warrants will be distributed.
• Exercise Price: The warrants are expected to have a striking price of $5.00 per share of Datavault AI common stock (subject to adjustment for recapitalizations, stock splits, stock dividends and similar types of transactions). Datavault AI currently anticipates that the warrants will be exercisable only for cash consideration.
• Term: The warrants are expected to be exercisable at any time (subject to certain conditions) following the distribution date until they expire on the one (1) year anniversary of the distribution date.
• Exercise Conditions: The warrants are expected to be exercisable only by holders holding at least one Dream Bowl Meme Coin II token in a digital wallet with the Company as of the applicable exercise time of such warrants (which ownership will be subject to verification by the Company). This condition and any other conditions to the exercise of the warrants are expected to be set forth in a warrant agreement that the Datavault AI expects to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on or prior to the distribution date.
   

The Company announced the record date to be on Jan. 7, 2026, and the related distribution date for the dividend has not been determined by the board of directors of Datavault AI (the “Datavault Board”) and that the warrants will be governed by a warrant agreement that the Company expects to file with the SEC on or prior to the distribution date.

It is also anticipated that, once determined by the Datavault Board, the record date for the dividend may be changed by the Datavault Board for any reason at any time prior to the distribution date, and distribution of the warrants will be conditioned upon the Datavault Board not having revoked the dividend prior to the distribution date, including for a material change to the solvency or surplus analysis presented to the Datavault Board.

The final terms and conditions of the foregoing dividend and warrants to be distributed in the dividend will be subsequently announced by the Company after the Datavault Board formally declares the proposed dividend and sets the record date and distribution date.

No Offer or Solicitation

This Press Release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. 

The distribution of the warrants in connection with the proposed dividend has not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), as the distribution of a warrant for no consideration does not constitute a sale of a security under Section 2(a)(3) of the Securities Act. A Form 8-A registration statement and prospectus supplement describing the terms of the warrants will be filed on or before the distribution date with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Holders should read the prospectus supplement carefully, when available, including the Risk Factors section included and incorporated by reference therein.

About Datavault AI

Datavault AI™ (Nasdaq: DVLT) leads AI-driven data experiences, valuation, and monetization in the Web 3.0 environment. The Company’s cloud-based platform delivers comprehensive solutions through its collaborative Acoustic Science and Data Science Divisions. Datavault AI’s Acoustic Science Division includes WiSA®, ADIO®, and Sumerian® patented technologies for spatial and multichannel wireless HD sound. The Data Science Division harnesses Web 3.0 and high-performance computing for experiential data perception, valuation, and secure monetization across industries including sports & entertainment, biotech, education, fintech, real estate, healthcare, and energy. The Information Data Exchange® (IDE) enables Digital Twins and secure NIL licensing, fostering responsible AI with integrity. Datavault AI’s customizable technology suite offers AI/ML automation, third-party integration, analytics, marketing automation, and advertising monitoring. Headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Learn more at www.dvlt.ai.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and other securities laws) about Datavault AI Inc. (“Datavault AI,” the “Company,” “us,” “our,” or “we”) and our industry that involve risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words, such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “shall,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “goal,” “objective,” “seeks,” “likely” or “continue” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. The absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding future events, whether Datavault AI will proceed with the potential dividend distribution of warrants and Datavault AI’s expectations regarding the terms and/or timing thereof (including that the Datavault Board may change the record date and/or the distribution date), the anticipated timing for announcement by Datavault AI of the record date and the distribution date, the anticipated exercise price, exercise conditions and expiration date of the warrants, the acceptance for trading of the warrants on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC, and the existence of a market for and the future trading price of the warrants, are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company and its management, are inherently uncertain. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these and other forward-looking statements contained herein.

Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the following: risks related to legal proceedings that may be instituted against Datavault regarding the warrants and the dividend distribution thereof to Datavault AI’s eligible equity holders; risks associated with the right of the Datavault Board to change the record date and the distribution date, and/or to revoke the dividend prior to the distribution date; changes in economic, market, or regulatory conditions; uncertainties regarding valuation methodologies and third-party reports; risks relating to evolving regulatory frameworks applicable to tokenized assets; and other risks and uncertainties as more fully described in Datavault AI’s filings with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and other filings that Datavault AI makes from time to time with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, and could cause actual results to vary from expectations.

The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. Datavault AI undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. Datavault AI may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in its forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Datavault AI’s forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures or investments it may make.

Investor Inquiries:

ir@dvlt.ai

Corporate Communications

IBN
Austin, Texas
www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
512.354.7000 Office
Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com 

SOURCE: Datavault AI Inc.

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BERJAYA SOMPO AND TI-RATANA SIGN THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP TO UPLIFT LIVES THROUGH EDUCATION, WELFARE AND WELL-BEING

 

From left: on behalf of Ti-Ratana Welfare Society - Judy Rozario, Lee Ming Er, J. Premanathan a/l R. Jaganathan; on behalf of Berjaya Sompo - Tricia Mallika Appaduray, Hanan Hayati, Jun Ishak, Benny Umbol 

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad (“Berjaya Sompo”) has signed a three-year partnership with Ti-Ratana Welfare Society to enhance support for underserved children and senior residents through education, welfare programmes, and holistic well-being initiatives.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalises a long-term collaboration to develop structured programmes aimed at improving access to education, strengthening welfare support, and nurturing emotional and mental well-being for the Ti-Ratana community.

Tan Sek Kee, Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo, said the partnership reflects the Company’s commitment to meaningful and purpose-driven sustainability.

“Sustainability is in our DNA. Staying true to our vision – We Are Here With You – we believe that real progress happens when we uplift our communities. This partnership is about working hand-in-hand with Ti-Ratana to enrich lives through education, personal development, emotional support and everyday welfare. Investing in people strengthens our communities.”

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on behalf of Ti-Ratana Welfare Society by its Treasurer, J. Premanathan A/L R. Jaganathan.

The MOU signing took place during a Christmas-themed Junior Young Insurer Programme held exclusively for the children and senior residents of Ti-Ratana.

As part of the celebration, children received gifts through a heartfelt Secret Santa initiative supported by tenants of Menara Bangkok Bank. Berjaya Sompo volunteers also hosted interactive activities for the children and engagement sessions for the elderly to ensure everyone experienced the Christmas spirit.

This partnership forms a key component of Berjaya Sompo’s sustainability strategy and reinforces its commitment to responsible business practices and community empowerment.

About Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad

Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad (“Berjaya Sompo”), is a Malaysian operating entity and part of the Sompo Group. Bolstered by the Sompo Group’s 80 years of trusted presence in Asia, spreading across 13 markets in the region, Berjaya Sompo is a leading name in general insurance in Malaysia, with an ever-expanding network that presently comprises 15 offices and 2,698 agents nationwide. Berjaya Sompo provides a comprehensive range of general insurance solutions for individuals and corporations.

For more information, go to www.berjayasompo.com.my. 

SOURCE: Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Daniel Soon
PR and Communications
Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad
Tel: +6010 – 279 9775 
Email: wjsoon@bsompo.com.my

--BERNAMA

Yayasan PETRONAS Spreads Festive Joy Across Malaysia Through Uplifting Lives Festive Initiative

 

From left: Mohd Zaki Dato’ Haji Mahat, General Manager of PETRONAS Southern Region; Ahmad Hashim Selamat, Director of Johor State Social Welfare Department; and Hayatiha Amin, Senior Assistant Community Development Officer during one of the distribution activities, which took place in Johor Bahru.

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- Yayasan PETRONAS is bringing festive cheer to families across Malaysia in conjunction with the Christmas celebration through its annual Uplifting Lives Festive (ULF) programme, distributing festive food packs to underserved communities nationwide. 

A total of 2,350 families in 11 states received festive packs consisting of essential food items such as festive cookies and beverages, bringing warmth and festive cheer to households celebrating the occasion. 

The ULF programme is part of Yayasan PETRONAS’ ongoing community well-being and development efforts, in line with the Sejahtera MADANI initiative. 

A continuation of its previous festive distributions under ULF, the effort reflects Yayasan PETRONAS’ commitment to uplifting communities while fostering social support and a spirit of togetherness during major cultural celebrations. 

Shariah Nelly Francis, Chief Executive Officer of Yayasan PETRONAS said, “Yayasan PETRONAS nurtures social well-being by ensuring that underserved communities have access to the care and support they need, especially during the festive season. We continue to promote sustainable livelihoods by improving access to basic needs and encouraging social entrepreneurship. Through ULF, Yayasan PETRONAS hopes to bring meaningful joy to those celebrating.”

Adding to the community focus, the festive cookies included in this year’s packs were produced by entrepreneurs under the Yayasan PETRONAS MEKAR (Memperkasakan Kesejahteraan Rakyat) programme. This initiative supports income generation and capacitybuilding for local micro-entrepreneurs, reflecting the foundation’s long-standing commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods. 

The nationwide distribution, which began on 5 December, is carried out in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and PETRONAS’ regional offices to ensure timely and efficient delivery of assistance to families in need.

In 2025, more than 13,000 families have benefitted from the foundation’s festive distributions, in line with the foundation’s mission to deliver positive and sustainable impact to communities throughout Malaysia.

Issued by:
Yayasan PETRONAS

SOURCE: Yayasan PETRONAS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Yayasan PETRONAS
Name: Low Jia Yin
Tel: +60 12 385 8631 
Email: low.jiayin@petronas.com

PETRONAS
Name: Yip Yoke Teng
Tel: +60 12 680 2906 
Email: yoketeng.yip@petronas.com 

--BERNAMA

PETRONAS STRENGTHENS LNG PARTNERSHIP WITH CNOOC THROUGH SUPPLY AGREEMENT

Long-term deal supports China’s Dual Carbon ambitions and reinforces PETRONAS’s role as a reliable LNG partner in Asia

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS, through its subsidiary PETRONAS LNG Ltd., has entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with CNOOC Gas and Power Singapore Trading & Marketing Pte. Ltd. for the supply of 1.0 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of liquefied natural gas (LNG). 

The agreement builds on the long-standing working relationship between PETRONAS and CNOOC, strengthening cooperation in LNG supply while supporting China’s economic growth, and national clean energy agenda, including the “Dual Carbon” aspirations of peaking emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.

Shamsairi M Ibrahim, Vice President of PETRONAS LNG Marketing and Trading, stated: “This agreement marks an elevation of our relationship with CNOOC, advancing our shared commitment to energy security and a lower carbon future. Beyond supplying LNG, it reflects the continued development of our long-term partnership. PETRONAS remains committed to delivering reliable and cleaner LNG solutions, working with partners to advance shared energy transition goals.”

This long-term commitment reinforces PETRONAS’ position as a trusted LNG partner to China, while reflecting ongoing collaboration with CNOOC, in one of Asia’s most dynamic gas markets. With Asia’s rising demand for lower-carbon fuels, PETRONAS will continue to deliver LNG from its established portfolio to support customers’ evolving energy needs across the region. 

About Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS)
As a global energy and solutions partner, PETRONAS is driven by its purpose to enrich lives for a sustainable future. With presence in over 100 countries, the group continues expanding its portfolios ranging from conventional and cleaner energy solutions to a diverse range of fuel, lubricants and petrochemical products. While ensuring sustainable practices across its operations, PETRONAS strives to ensure just and equitable outcomes in transitioning to a lower carbon future 

Issued by:
Media Management
Channels & Media Relations
Group Strategic Relations & Communications
PETRONAS

SOURCE: PETRONAS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Esha Lim Hwee Nee
Tel: +6012 412 0117
Email: eshalim.hweenee@petronas.com 

Name: Nabil Basaruddin 
Tel: +6012 424 9750
Email: nabil.basaruddin@petronas.com 

Name: Hana Nazsulaeeqa Harun 
Tel: +6010 455 3378
Email: hananazsulaeeqa.haru@petronas.com.my  

--BERNAMA

CIMB collaborates with WeChat Pay to boost merchants’ visibility in China

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- CIMB Bank Berhad and CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (collectively “CIMB” or “the Bank”) announced a strategic collaboration with Weixin Pay or more well known as WeChat Pay through a dedicated solution, Weixin Mini Program (“the Programme”) to boost CIMB-affiliated merchants’ businesses. This initiative marks a significant step forward in enabling seamless cross-border payments, enhancing Malaysian merchants’ visibility, and empowering businesses to tap into the digital savvy and inbound Chinese tourists.

The collaboration reflects CIMB’s commitment to strengthening cross-border transactions – enabling local merchants to offer a smooth and trusted payment experience for Chinese consumers using Weixin Pay, one of China’s most widely adopted payment platforms. By integrating the Programme and Weixin Pay, merchants in Malaysia can showcase offerings digitally, engage Chinese travellers before arrival to the country, and facilitate in-store transactions via DuitNow QR. This end-to-end ecosystem creates convenience for travellers and a competitive edge for Malaysian merchants, especially in sectors such as retail, F&B and hospitality.
 
Daniel Cheong, Head of Consumer Banking Malaysia, CIMB said, “This collaboration underscores CIMB’s drive to advancing cross-border connectivity and creating opportunities that uplift communities and businesses, in line with our purpose of Advancing Customers and Society. By leveraging CIMB’s digital capabilities with Weixin Pay’s extensive global reach, we are enabling merchants to reach high-value travellers and participate more fully in the digital economy. Through the Programme, merchants gain access to a platform that is familiar to Chinese consumers, making it easier for travellers to discover, engage and transact seamlessly – even before arriving in Malaysia. This partnership reinforces our mission to deliver connectivity, convenience and commercial growth for businesses nationwide.”
 
According to a report by the Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia received nearly 1.8 million tourists from China during the first five months of 2025, and this number is expected to increase. CIMB’s collaboration with Weixin Pay strategically coincides with peak travel seasons for Chinese visitors, ensuring merchants are well-positioned to capture demand during Malaysia’s busiest inbound periods. In tandem with Visit Malaysia 2026, the partnership will further amplify opportunities for cross-border spending and reinforce Malaysia’s position as one of the top travel destinations amongst foreign tourists.
 
David Chong, Assistant Regional Director, Southeast Asia of Weixin Pay said, “Malaysia has become one of the key focus markets for the Programme expansion, driven by strong demand from local businesses looking to reach Chinese travellers through digital-first channels. Weixin Pay is actively strengthening our ecosystem in Malaysia — from payment innovation to merchant enablement — and this collaboration with CIMB marks an important milestone in the journey.”
 
On 1 January 2026, participating merchants will receive a dedicated merchant page within the Weixin Pay’s ecosystem to showcase their products and services. They will benefit from high visibility within its ecosystem, location-based discovery, promotional campaigns, and insights into their incremental traffic and purchase intent, driven by pre-trip and in-destination search trends. Participating merchants will overcome common barriers such as high integration costs, complex technical requirements, and limited visibility to Chinese consumers through a streamlined, cost-efficient onboarding process that eliminates complicated integration. They will also receive exclusive exchange rates, making cross-border transactions more affordable and seamless. From micro, small and medium enterprises (“MSMEs”) to major retail destinations, the Programme empowers businesses to compete effectively in a digital-first regional marketplace.

About CIMB 

CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM79.0 billion as at 30 September 2025. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present across ASEAN in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 571 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 30 September 2025. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its award-winning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 91.455% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.83% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.

SOURCE: ​CIMB Group Holdings Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Anis Azharuddin / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com 

--BERNAMA 

UNIRAZAK Honours 13 Exceptional Graduates at Its 24th Convocation Ceremony

 

Photo Caption - The Chancellor’s Award, UNIRAZAK’s highest student honour, was presented to Ahmad Zulhilmi bin Mohamad Shaikhani, a Bachelor of Business Administration of graduate from Bank Rakyat School of Business, Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (BRSBITE) whose journey reflects excellence without compromise. 

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 19 (Bernama) -- Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK) proudly honoured exceptional student achievements at its 24th Convocation Ceremony, celebrating recipients of prestigious Graduation Awards across both sessions. The awards reflect not only academic excellence, but also leadership, resilience, industry readiness, and the values that define the UNIRAZAK community.
 
Across both sessions of its convocation, UNIRAZAK conferred a total of 13 Graduation Awards, each representing a distinct form of excellence shaped through academic, leadership, and service. Far from being symbolic titles, these awards are the result of structured evaluation frameworks, faculty recommendations, and sustained student commitment reflecting UNIRAZAK’s holistic approach to talent development.
 
Speaking on the significance of this year’s Graduation Awards, YBhg. Prof. Datin Paduka Dr. Samsinar Md Sidin, Vice Chancellor of UNIRAZAK, said, “This year’s Graduation Awards carry special meaning as we extend recognition across the broader UNIRAZAK community, including award recipients from Sabah and Sarawak. We are also proud to see award recipients who are growing into future educators and practitioners through our TVET pathway. It is a powerful reminder that talent is everywhere and UNIRAZAK’s role is to nurture, recognise, and elevate it. 

Speaking on the significance of this year’s Graduation Awards, YBhg. Prof. Datin Paduka Dr. Samsinar Md Sidin, Vice Chancellor of UNIRAZAK, said, “This year’s Graduation Awards carry special meaning as we extend recognition across the broader UNIRAZAK community, including award recipients from Sabah and Sarawak. We are also proud to see award recipients who are growing into future educators and practitioners through our TVET pathway. It is a powerful reminder that talent is everywhere and UNIRAZAK’s role is to nurture, recognise, and elevate it.

At the pinnacle of this recognition is Ahmad Zulhilmi bin Mohamad Shaikhani, Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) from Bank Rakyat School of Business, Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (BRSBITE), whose presence on campus has been both transformative and enduring. His journey at UNIRAZAK has been defined by leadership exercised with integrity and communication delivered with confidence, inspiring trust across the university community and beyond. From mentoring incoming students to leading student organisations, representing UNIRAZAK on national platforms, and contributing to community-focused initiatives, he consistently demonstrated professionalism, sound judgement, and a strong sense of responsibility. His professional development progressed alongside his studies, reflecting his ability to apply academic learning effectively in real-world settings and exemplifying the holistic excellence UNIRAZAK seeks to cultivate in its graduates.
 
The Chancellor’s Award celebrates holistic impact across the university community, while the Vice Chancellor Award recognises a graduate whose journey reflects focused academic engagement complemented by excellence that is consistent, reliable, and grounded in academic integrity and professional discipline.
 
The Vice Chancellor Award is conferred upon Mohd Ammar Akmal bin Mohd Mazri, a graduate of the Bachelor of Management (Honours) from the BRSBITE. His journey is defined by balance between intellectual pursuit and active involvement, demonstrating a graduate who approaches learning with seriousness while remaining engaged with the wider campus environment. Through perseverance and dedication to growth, he exemplifies the values of academic integrity and personal accountability that this award seeks to honour.
 
From academic distinction, the convocation proceeds to recognise excellence shaped by character and leadership in practice. The CEO Award is conferred upon individuals who demonstrate the ability to translate knowledge into meaningful contribution, guided by professionalism, responsibility, and principled conduct. Among them, Siti Wahidah binti Nazaruhdin, Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM) of Early Childhood Care & Development Supervision, represents the strength of the TVET pathway through Akademi TVET UNIRAZAK (ATUR), where progress is built through applied skill, discipline, and determination. 

A university thrives when learning is enriched by participation, service, and shared experience. As the convocation continues, attention turns to those whose contributions shaped the fabric of campus life through presence, initiative, and commitment to the student community. The Student Life Award is awarded to Mustafizur Rahman bin Abdul Muthalib, a Bachelor of Accounting graduate whose journey exemplifies balance between academic dedication and meaningful engagement beyond formal study. His experience reflects a well-rounded university life shaped by intellectual pursuit alongside active contribution to the student community, embodying UNIRAZAK’s belief that future-ready graduates are formed through both learning and lived experience.
 
The convocation now ascends to excellence demonstrated at the postgraduate level, where experience, scholarship, and leadership converge. The Tun Razak Graduate School (TRGS) Best Student Award recognises individuals who demonstrate outstanding postgraduate performance, professional credibility, and meaningful contribution to their respective fields. In this spirit, Wan Norliza binti Wan Bidin, a Master of Business Administration graduate, was recognised for excellence that extends beyond the classroom: a structural engineering leader, the Founder and CEO of Tia Zalikha Trading, and Second Place winner of the 2025 Usahanita Digital competition organised by the Selangor State in collaboration with Wanita Berdaya Selangor (WBS). Her professional standing is further affirmed through credentials including Professional Engineer (BEM) and ASEAN Chartered Professional Engineer (ACPE), alongside her role as a valuator with the Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC). 

As the convocation continues, recognition is extended across faculties. The BRSBITE Best Student Award is awarded to S. Visalan a/l S. Sivanasan, a graduate of the Bachelor of Management. His achievement stands as a dignified affirmation of UNIRAZAK’s inclusiveness where merit is recognised with fairness, and excellence is celebrated in all its forms. In honouring his accomplishment, UNIRAZAK also reinforces that distinction inspires not only the individual who receives it, but also the broader community who sees what is possible.
 
From business and management, the convocation turns to governance and public service. The Tun Ahmad Sarji School of Government and Public Services (TASSGPS) Best Student Award is presented to Shaik Muhammad Irfan bin Shaik Wahid, a Bachelor of Arts in Governance and Public Policy (Honours) graduate whose journey reflects holistic excellence. A respected student leader, he held key roles in the Student Representative Council and Social Science Club, actively engaged with industry partners, supported peers, and represented UNIRAZAK at national and international level, embodying the values of leadership, service, and intellectual depth upheld by the school.
 
Excellence within the professional disciplines is further recognised through the School of Accounting and Taxation Best Student Award, awarded to Mas Dalila binti Maskuri, a Bachelor of Accounting graduate and PNB Scholar. Her journey reflects consistency, discipline, and professional ambition, marked by strong academic performance and notable success in CPA Australia. Her recognition affirms UNIRAZAK’s strength in producing graduates who are academically grounded and professionally certified.
 
In the field of education, the School of Education and Humanities (SEH) Best Student Award is conferred upon Aliah Afiqah binti Azhar, a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education) graduate. Her journey embodies the school’s commitment to developing educators who are intellectually rigorous, empathetic, and values-driven qualities essential to shaping future generations.
 
In a historic milestone, this convocation extends recognition across region, reinforcing UNIRAZAK’s commitment to nationwide inclusion. For the first time, Graduation Awards are presented to students from Sabah and Sarawak. The Best Regional Centre Student Award (Sabah) is awarded to Dayang Nur Asimah Aqidah binti Darikah, while the Best Regional Centre Student Award (Sarawak) is presented to Deirdre Bunjai Bucking, both Bachelor of Education (Honours) graduates whose achievements reflect dedication, consistency, and regional excellence.
 
From regional recognition, the convocation proceeds to honour excellence across academic pathways. The Best Diploma Student Award is awarded to Divyana a/p Parasu, a Diploma in Early Childhood Education graduate whose commitment and academic distinction set her apart at diploma level. Her achievement reinforces the University’s belief that excellence is cultivated across all pathways, and that diploma graduates play a vital role in shaping skilled, values-driven professionals.

The convocation concludes its awards with recognition rooted in creativity, resilience, and applied excellence. The Best ATUR Student Award is conferred upon Siti Hajar binti Anuar, a Malaysia Skills Certificate (SKM) of Graphic Design (Digital) graduate whose journey is both inspiring and forward-looking. Through exceptional focus, creativity, and professionalism, she demonstrated the strength of creative education delivered through an industry-aligned TVET model affirming its dignity, relevance, and long-term value in a rapidly evolving digital era.
 
Anchored in the theme “Breaking Through”, these recipients reflect UNIRAZAK’s mission to develop graduates who rise beyond limitations and lead with purpose. Together, the 13 Graduation Award recipients embody UNIRAZAK’s core values of HEROES: Humble, Empathic, Resilient, Organised, Enterprising, and Sagacious. Their journeys reflect UNIRAZAK’s mission to produce graduates who are not only accomplished in knowledge, but principled in character, adaptable in outlook, and ready to lead with purpose in an increasingly complex world.

SOURCE: Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Nur Dini Mohd Nadzri
Public Relations and Branding Specialist
Branding & Communications
Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK)
Tel: +603 2730 7000 / +603 2730 7109
Email: nurdini@unirazak.edu.my

Name: Nur Ellyna Aziera Azizi
Public Relations and Digital Specialist
Branding & Communications
Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK)
Tel: +603 2730 7000 / +603 2730 7185
Email: ellyna@unirazak.edu.my

--BERNAMA 

SME SENTIMENT INDEX 2H 2025 SIGNALS STRONGER ECONOMIC MOMENTUM AND RISING CONFIDENCE AMONG MSMES

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 22 (Bernama) -- Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (“SME Bank”), a subsidiary of Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (“BPMB”) Group has released the findings of its SME Sentiment Index for the second half of 2025 (“2H 2025”), signalling a stronger economic momentum and rising optimism across the country’s MSME landscape. The overall Sentiment Index rose to 56.8, compared with 55.1 in 1H 2025, reflecting improved expectations on economic conditions, sales prospects, expansionary activities and employment despite elevated external pressures.

SME Bank’s Relief President and Chief Executive Officer, Samad Majid Zain said “Malaysian MSMEs continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience, supported by stronger economic fundamentals and opportunities ahead. The rise in the Sentiment Index with 68% of respondents expecting higher sales and 53% planning to expand their workforce, reflects a more positive operating climate even as the business community navigates higher external import tariffs, wider Sales & Services Tax (“SST”) application and adjustments in electricity costs. The strongest optimism is recorded among manufacturing segments, where up to 89% of businesses anticipate growth. These trends signal that MSMEs are preparing for increased demand and renewed investment activity. SME Bank will continue to support MSMEs in strengthening their financial position, improving productivity and enhancing competitiveness as Malaysia advances toward sustainable economic growth.

Key Highlights at a Glance:
· Growth optimistic sectors underscore consistency with strategic national objectives.
· Expansion plans strengthen sales outlook, with optimism reaching up to 89% in sectors preparing for increased market activity.
· Operating costs remain elevated as policy adjustments take effect, prompting MSMEs to intensify cost control and efficiency measures.
· Workforce expansion is gaining momentum, with 53% of MSMEs planning to hire in line with improving demand expectations.
· Technology adoption continues to drive performance, with wider use of digital tools enhancing productivity and competitiveness.
· Improving cash reserves across MSMEs, although micro enterprises remain the most vulnerable due to tight liquidity conditions.

SME Bank’s Head of Economic Analysis, Mazlina Abdul Rahman said, “The findings provide a clear and timely view of the evolving risk landscape. While 58% of enterprises expect the economy to expand, the variation across business sizes remains significant. Micro enterprises are the most optimistic at 65%, whereas only 44% of medium sized firms expect growth, reflecting the impact of rising costs and external uncertainty. Liquidity conditions have improved, with the proportion of MSMEs holding less than six months of reserves declining to 31% from 34%, and those with reserves beyond three years increasing to 15%. Yet financing appetite remains high, with 81% of respondents planning to obtain funding for working capital or expansion. These insights allow SME Bank to calibrate risk assessments with greater precision and ensure that our support remains responsive, prudent and aligned with sector realities.”
 
The SME Sentiment Index survey was conducted between July to October 2025 and gathered responses from 1,971 entrepreneurs and business owners across 40 sectors and all business sizes. The survey offers comprehensive insight into business sentiment and remains a key reference point for assessing Malaysia’s economic trajectory. The full SME Sentiment Index 2H 2025 report can be accessed at: 
https://www.smebank.com.my/documents/d/guest/sme-sentiment-index-2h-2025

Click here for more info: https://go.smebank.com.my/SMESI 

Issued by:
SME Bank Strategic Communication

SOURCE: SME Bank

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Arnee Ismail
Head, Strategic Communication
SME Bank
Tel: +603 2603 7700 / +6019-6633390
Email: communications@smebank.com.my

--BERNAMA