US Patent Grants See Growth In 2024, Samsung Holds Top Spot

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- United States (US) patent grants have rebounded after four years of decline, rising by 3.8 per cent from calendar year 2023 to 324,043, with Samsung retaining top spot for the third year in a row, according to IFI CLAIMS Patent Services.

IFI CLAIMS Patent Services is part of Digital Science, a London-based digital research technology company that compiles and tracks data from the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and other patent agencies worldwide. IFI translates its data into an annual US Top 50 and Top 10 Fastest Growing Technologies patent ranking, providing valuable insights into companies’ research and development (R&D) activity.

According to a statement, patent applications in the US also reached a new peak, growing by three per cent from 418,111 in 2023 to 430,625 in 2024, reflecting a robust innovation economy.

IFI CLAIMS Patent Services chief executive officer, Ronald Kratz said this growth comes after a challenging period marked by a backlog in patent examinations, which the USPTO is working to address by hiring more examiners.

Samsung led the 2024 US Top 50 Ranking with 6,377 patents, a three percent rise from 2023, representing nearly two percent of all patents granted in the US. Contract chip maker TSMC moved up to second place, overtaking Qualcomm, which dropped to third. Apple and Huawei rounded out the top five, while IBM, which held the top spot for 29 consecutive years, fell to eighth place, reflecting its more selective patenting strategy.

Asian firms demonstrated significant progress, with Changxin Memory Technologies leapt 57 places, Tencent advanced 54, and LG Energy climbed 37 spots. Among US tech giants, only Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft made the top 50, while Meta, Nvidia, and Tesla were absent.

The US companies led the world in patent grants with 143,382 patents, but international firms earned a significant portion (56 per cent), particularly from Japan (43,364), China (28,258), South Korea (24,115), and Germany (14,044).

The fastest-growing technology this year is operating or servicing cells, related to electrolytic methods, led with more than 27 per cent rise from 2020 to 2024.

Three of the top 10 are taken up by technologies that seek to diminish waste such as reclaiming non-ferrous metals with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.2 per cent, recovery of waste materials (CAGR 26.1 per cent), and destroying solid waste (CAGR 17.7 per cent). Technologies focused on sustainability, such as producing protein from non-traditional sources (CAGR 22.6 per cent), also gained traction.

Patent activity remains a critical measure of corporate R&D productivity, technological efficiency, and intellectual property strategy, revealing trends and competition within industries. For further analysis, IFI CLAIMS Live 1000 provides live data and customisable tools to explore patent activities across multiple jurisdictions.

-- BERNAMA

SALIHIN INTERNATIONAL: PAVING THE WAY FOR FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AND STRONGER ASEAN TIES

Empowering ASEAN Markets: SALIHIN and PART Join Forces for Economic Development

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 (Bernama) -- SALIHIN, the Malaysia leading homegrown professional services firm, has been making headlines with its role in driving foreign direct investment (FDI) and bolstering economic collaboration within ASEAN. Recently, the firm was appointed as the corporate advisor for Indonesia’s PT Cipta Perdana Lancar Tbk. (PART), an expansion that highlights SALIHIN’s expertise in guiding global companies into Malaysia’s dynamic market.

PART was established in 2009 and headquartered in Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia, specializes in manufacturing stamped and assembled components for the automotive, electronics, and sanitation industries. The company went public on July 5, 2024, listing on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). Its products cater to clients such as Toyota, Panasonic, Isuzu, and Hitachi. Currently the company has employed 450 staff and focus on producing parts for two- and four-wheeled vehicles, electrical equipment, and household sanitary products. As of 8 January 2025, the company's market capitalization was approximately RM73.61 million.

SALIHIN’s collaboration with PART, comes at a time when Malaysia’s government is emphasizing innovation-led growth through the Malaysia MADANI Budget 2025 and the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13). These initiatives aim to attract FDI and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional economic hub. Leveraging its deep expertise, SALIHIN offers foreign investors tailored support in market entry, regulatory compliance, and strategic alliances.

The recent appointment represents another major step forward in SALIHIN's journey to expand its operations into the Indonesian market. "This trust placed in us by PART underscores our capabilities and commitment to delivering value-driven solutions. Expanding into Indonesia is a pivotal move that reinforces SALIHIN's growth strategy and positions us to tap into the vast opportunities within this vibrant market," said Ahmad Izwan Adnan, Deputy Group Managing Partner of SALIHIN.

As Malaysia takes on the chairmanship of ASEAN, SALIHIN is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in driving regional economic integration. With its track record of delivering impactful results and innovative solutions for both local and international clients, the firm continues to align with global best practices while staying true to its Islamic values.

SALIHIN’s ongoing dedication to sustainability and value-driven growth cements its status as a trusted advisor for foreign investors. By supporting collaborations like PART’s and fostering partnerships with automotive giants, SALIHIN contributes to Malaysia’s vision of becoming a top FDI destination and a leader in ASEAN’s economic development.

For more information on SALIHIN and its services, please visit www.salihin.com or contact our media relations team at gmpo@salihin.com / +603-61859970

About SALIHIN

SALIHIN is Malaysia’s premier professional services firm, offering a wide range of services, including audit and assurance, direct and indirect taxation, corporate advisory, shariah advisory, ESG and sustainability, professional learning and education, digital consultancy, and outsourcing services. Established in 2002, SALIHIN is committed to providing high-quality professional services, guided by Islamic principles and a dedication to sustainable development.

About PT Cipta Perdana Lancar Tbk.

PT Cipta Perdana Lancar Tbk. (PART) is an Indonesian manufacturing leader specializing in automotive, electronics, and sanitary components. Since its establishment in 2007, PART has consistently delivered innovative solutions and is now focused on expanding its market presence in Southeast Asia, beginning with Malaysia.

SOURCE: SALIHIN

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Media Relations Team
Tel: +603-61859970
Email: gmpo@salihin.com

--BERNAMA

BDX DATA CENTERS PARTNERS APJII TO BOOST INDONESIA'S DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE, AI CAPABILITIES

(L-R) Muhammad Arif, Chairman of APJII; Agus Wijaya, President Director and CEO of BDx Indonesia (Photo: Business Wire)

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- BDx Data Centers (BDx), Indonesia’s largest data centre operator and Asia-Pacific’s fastest-growing carrier-neutral data centre platform, has announced a landmark cooperation agreement with the Association of Indonesia Internet Service Providers (APJII) that will bolster the nation’s digital ecosystem.

As part of this strategic partnership, APJII will enhance the Indonesia Internet Exchange (IIX) coverage in Greater Jakarta by launching a new IIX node at BDx Indonesia’s CGK 3A campus in Southern Jakarta.

BDx Data Centers Chief Operating Officer, Sujit Panda emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating that it is not only timely but imperative for bridging Indonesia’s digital divide.

“While BDx offers the most interconnected digital infrastructure mesh across the country with a portfolio of 59 colocation facilities and edge sites, APJII is a cornerstone of Indonesia’s Internet ecosystem,” he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, APJII Chairman, Muhammad Arif said the partnership would enhance internet traffic optimisation, routing efficiency, and the overall quality and security of the country’s digital infrastructure, paving the way for a resilient and sustainable digital future.

This initiative aims to establish the campus as the digital hub for internet traffic exchange, thereby boosting the resilience and efficiency of the region's digital infrastructure.

The presence of IIX at the CGK 3A campus will help establish a carrier-neutral interconnection ecosystem in Indonesia, meeting the growing demand for high bandwidth and low latency required by modern applications.

The CGK 3A campus, designed specifically for AI inferencing, is poised to accelerate AI capabilities within the country. By hosting IIX at this advanced data centre, the partnership will enable direct, high-speed connectivity between various networks, reducing latency and improving real-time data processing.

It will also create new opportunities for AI ecosystem collaboration, fostering faster data sharing and better integration across the sector.

Indonesia’s internet penetration has surged to 79.5 per cent, according to the 2024 APJII survey, driven by a young, tech-savvy population. E-commerce remains a key driver of the country’s digital economy, which continues to expand due to government initiatives like "Making Indonesia 4.0" and the rising adoption of cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and AI technologies. To support this rapid digital transformation, reliable infrastructure is essential.

-- BERNAMA

CALLING YOUNG SCIENTIFIC MINDS: JOIN PRESTIGIOUS HONG KONG LAUREATE FORUM 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 13 (Bernama) -- The global application for the Hong Kong Laureate Forum (HKLF) 2025, a world-class scientific exchange and networking event, is now open until March 31.

The forum invites applications from doctorate graduates, postgraduate (PhD/Master’s) students, and undergraduates aged 35 or below who are pursuing research or studies in Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, Mathematical Sciences, or related fields. Interested applicants can apply via the registration website.

Following the success of its inaugural event in 2023, which garnered widespread praise for its intellectual discussions and exchanges among Shaw Laureates and other prominent scientists, the Council of the HKLF has announced that the second edition will take place from Nov 5 to 8, in Hong Kong.

The forum aims to inspire innovation and foster global connections across disciplines, generations, and cultures, according to a statement.

In addition to plenary lectures, panel discussions, and parallel group sessions, the forum will feature informal gatherings, providing ample opportunities for networking and dialogues.

HKLF Chairman, Professor Timothy W Tong, emphasised that the forum seeks to create an environment where young scientists can interact with leading global experts.

“Hong Kong’s unique position as an international hub for scientific research, combined with its strong scientific infrastructure and government support, makes it the ideal location for such a global science gathering among participants,” he said.

Meanwhile, former Shaw Laureates, Professor E Peter Greenberg (Life Science and Medicine 2015) and Professor Simon D M White (Astronomy 2017), expressed their enthusiasm for engaging with emerging scientists at the event.

The forum will select 200 outstanding young scientists based on recommendations from a Scientific Review Panel, comprising local and international academics.

-- BERNAMA

AMBANK'S BACK-TO-SCHOOL CSR PROGRAMME INSPIRES YOUNG MINDS WITH VISIT TO MAB ACADEMY

AmBank with 100 students from SK Bukit Tampoi (Asli) and SJK (T) Dengkil for an educational trip to Malaysia Airlines Berhad Academy (MAB)

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 (Bernama) -- AmBank held an educational trip to Malaysia Airlines Berhad Academy (MAB) with 100 students from SK Bukit Tampoi (Asli) and SJK (T) Dengkil. This year’s Back-to-School CSR Programme combines the contribution of school supplies with an inspiring introduction to the aviation industry.

Beyond equipping students with essential school supplies for the upcoming academic year, the programme aims to spark curiosity and ambition among the 100 students from the B40 community. The students enjoyed an exclusive educational visit to MAB Academy, where they had hands-on learning with aviation professionals while exploring the various career possibilities within the industry.

Other activities that took place were a tour of the mock cabin set up & service demonstration, fire drill demonstration, safety briefing and exit demonstration.

Shazman Shahid, Head of Group Corporate Communications and Marketing, AmBank Group said “This initiative embodies our dedication to uplift the youth by creating memorable experience and meaningful community engagement. We hope by giving them a glimpse into the exciting world of aviation, it encourages them to explore their interests and realize that opportunities are within their reach.”

This is part of AmBank’s adopted schools programme which aligns with the Groups’s Sustainability Framework under positive societal impact, that aims to contribute to the positive impact and empowerment of the community.

About AmBank Group

AmBank Group is a leading financial services group with over 40 years of expertise in supporting the economic development of Malaysia. We have over three million customers and employ over 8,000 people.

The Group was listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia in 1988. It is the sixth-largest banking group by assets in Malaysia, with a market capitalisation of more than RM13 billion as at 31 March 2024.

AmBank Group serves over three million individual and corporate customers. It provides services in wholesale banking, retail banking, business banking, investment banking and related financial services which include Islamic banking, underwriting of general insurance, life insurance, family takaful, stock and share broking, futures broking, investment advisory and asset management services in unit trusts and real estate investment trusts.

For more information, please visit www.ambankgroup.com

SOURCE : AmBank Group

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ridzuan Zulkifli
Senior Vice President
Group Corporate Communications and Marketing
AmBank Group
Email: ridzuan.zulkifli@ambankgroup.com
Media Relations team
Email: media.relations@ambankgroup.com

--BERNAMA

CATHAY INTERNATIONAL CHINESE NEW YEAR NIGHT PARADE: A FESTIVE EXTRAVAGANZA ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR

Featuring Diverse International Performances and Hong Kong Charm with Stunning Floats as Online Travel Guide is Launched to Showcase City’s Exciting Festivities

HONG KONG, Jan 9 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The most spectacular Lunar New Year celebration in town – the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade – is ready to roar back in exuberant style in Tsim Sha Tsui to welcome the first day of the Year of the Snake (29 January), kicking off a host of seasonal events across Hong Kong. The annual event is organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) with Cathay as the title sponsor for the 23rd year. With the theme Unfold a Year of Good Fortune, the parade combines performers from around the world with distinctive Hong Kong flavours presented by the floats to reflect the city’s status as an events capital for festivities with unique glamour.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107966877/en/

 

Dr Pang Yiu-kai, HKTB Chairman, said, “Hong Kong is one of the most popular destinations in the world for Lunar New Year celebrations, and the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade is definitely a highlight of the festivities. The parade will be broadcast live by satellite and webcast around the world and will be a global attraction to remember. This year’s event trumps last year’s as HKTB hopes to kick off the Year of the Snake by showcasing an international carnival featuring performances from all over the world.”

Dr Pang continued, “HKTB will also provide visitors with a handy New Year travel guide by launching a one-stop Chinese New Year celebration webpage. The page brings together details about celebrations across the city in addition to the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, including the fabulous fireworks display, the Chinese New Year Raceday, and the Chinese New Year Cup on the second, third and fourth days of Lunar New Year respectively, as well as Lunar New Year fairs. Complemented by other festive activities and popular attractions, Hong Kong offers a feast of seasonal entertainment to entice visitors to stay for a few more days and return home filled with joy.”

Mr Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer, said, “As Hong Kong’s home carrier with deep roots in the city for 78 years, Cathay is committed to developing Hong Kong as an international aviation hub while supporting various mega events held in the city to promote the local economy. Meanwhile, we have been adding more flights and expanding our network to connect our customers with their friends and families from around the world. We are delighted to be the title sponsor of the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade for the 23rd consecutive year. We hope this world-renowned Lunar New Year spectacle will give everyone a warm start to the Year of the Snake, surrounded by loved ones and filled with the joy, happiness and blessings brought by Cathay.”

Performances from More Countries and Regions than Last Year, All Brought Together in Tsim Sha Tsui

The floats and local, global and pre-parade performances in this year’s parade will total 55 – more than last year – bringing a bigger and more spectacular Lunar New Year experience to excited crowds of spectators.

A total of 14 countries and regions will be represented, including Hong Kong, with France, Argentina, Austria, India, Indonesia, and Thailand as the newcomers. There will be a total of 16 performing groups from Mainland and overseas, with some groups packing star power, like the winner of 2020 America's Got Talent: The Champions, V.UNBEATABLE DANCE GROUP, Austrian acrobatic show group and the runner-up of 2018 America's Got Talent Zurcaroh, and the dance crew, the first Golden Buzzer winner of the 2023 Indonesia’s Got Talent contest BRAVERY DANCERS. Groups from Mainland are also ready to impress, including the Shaanxi Performing Arts Troupe, who featured in the opening and closing ceremonies of the 14^th National Games of China. Spectators can also enjoy the festive fan with Thai boyband LYKN and K-pop girl group Kep1er.

Presenting Local Performers of an International Standard for a Magnificent Festive Extravaganza

Representing the talents of Hong Kong are 12 performing groups with skills ranging from dancing, cheerleading, and gymnastics to rope skipping – many of them champions in international competitions. Marvel at the moves of Chestroll Dance Crew, winner of the 2019 and 2023 World of Dance Hong Kong competition, and the SDM Jazz & Ballet Academie and Hong Kong Rope Skipping Association, China, both winners of numerous international accolades. The show by the Hong Kong Rope Skipping Association China, which has participated in the parade for many years, will include top performers from the United States, France, Australia, and Japan, exchanging skills and adding a touch of international flair and vitality to the traditional festivities.

The parade will begin at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza and will work its way through Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road before arriving at Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers. The parade will officially begin at 8:00pm, and at 6:00pm before the parade starts, a total of 18 local performing groups will ring in the festivities with juggling, magic shows, dance and music to get you into the carnival mood.

Floats Transform into Hong Kong Tourism Ambassadors to Showcase City’s Charm

The parade this year will feature nine floats, many of which assume roles as Hong Kong Tourism Ambassadors by showcasing the city’s splendour and charm. These floats will feature famous Hong Kong icons, including the city’s popular giant pandas who will appear on a float with Hong Kong-style milk tea. Don’t miss out on floats based on the city’s stunning skyline that take inspiration from the snake motif. Also not to be missed are floats with elements of Hong Kong festivities to promote the city’s distinctive Lunar New Year culture, as well as ones carrying joyful Lunar New Year messages and greetings including windmills, lyrical couplets, blooming flowers and much more.

Creating Synergy with the Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival to Extend the Excitement of the Night Parade

HKTB is teaming up with the Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival this year to extend the excitement of the night parade. The dazzling floats and performance stage will be relocated to Lam Tsuen in Tai Po where, from 30 January to 13 February, locals and visitors can see multiple floats at the Lam Tsuen Wishing Square. On the second and third days of the Lunar New Year, locals and visitors can enjoy selected performances presented by Mainland and international performing groups who took part in the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade. Some groups will also perform at different locations around the city on these two days, making it an event not to be missed.

Launch of New Year Travel Guide to Attract Visitors to Celebrate Lunar New Year in Hong Kong

The HKTB is providing a handy New Year travel guide for locals and visitors by launching a one-stop Chinese New Year celebration webpage. The page brings together details about celebrations across the city, including the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, the fabulous fireworks display, the Chinese New Year Raceday, and the Chinese New Year Cup on the first, second, third and fourth days of Lunar New Year respectively, as well as Lunar New Year fairs. Together with temple visits for blessings and other festive activities at popular attractions, the guide will give visitors spending the Lunar New Year in Hong Kong the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the city’s festive culture. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=50122

SYNCHRONOSS TECHNOLOGIES TO PRESENT AT INVESTOR CONFERENCES THIS MONTH

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 8 (Bernama) -- Synchronoss Technologies Inc (Synchronoss) has announced its President and Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Miller, alongside Chief Financial Officer, Louis Ferraro, will be speaking at two upcoming investor conferences.

According to a statement, the first presentation will take place at the ICR Conference on Jan 13, and the webcast link will be available on the Synchronoss Investor Relations website.

The second event is the Needham Growth Conference, scheduled for Jan 16, where investors can register for one-on-one meetings with the company's management by contacting a Needham sales representative.

A global leader in personal Cloud solutions, Synchronoss empowers service providers to establish secure and meaningful connections with their subscribers.

Its software as a service (SaaS) Cloud platform streamlines onboarding processes and promotes subscriber engagement, leading to increased revenue, cost savings, and quicker market deployment.

-- BERNAMA