MALAYSIA HEALTHCARE STRENGTHENS BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH CAMBODIA THROUGH DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENT

Credit by Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC)

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, Feb 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) strengthened bilateral relations with Cambodia by hosting a Diplomatic Dinner Reception in collaboration with the Embassy of Malaysia in Cambodia, held in conjunction with Malaysia Healthcare Week Phnom Penh 2026. This inaugural diplomatic engagement in Cambodia for 2026 forms part of the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026, themed “Healing Meets Hospitality”. The evening brought together 200 guests, including diplomats from embassies residing in Cambodia, government ministries, corporate representatives, healthcare stakeholders, and local media, providing a platform to deepen dialogue on regional healthcare collaboration. The reception highlighted healthcare as a meaningful bridge between nations, supporting patient mobility, professional exchange, mutual trust, and sustainable partnerships beyond traditional economic cooperation. The engagement also reflected Malaysia’s readiness to support Cambodia’s growing demand for outbound medical travel. As healthcare awareness increases and the need for specialised treatments rises, Malaysia offers Cambodian patients a trusted option that combines clinical quality, cost-effectiveness, and ease of access. The Malaysian Embassy’s involvement underscored Malaysia’s commitment to healthcare diplomacy as a key pillar of bilateral relations.

More than a single event, the reception signalled Malaysia Healthcare’s long-term approach to engagement in Cambodia. It demonstrated a commitment to building enduring relationships with government and industry stakeholders, aligned with broader regional integration and people-to-people connectivity.

This inaugural engagement in Cambodia under MYMT 2026 also reflects Malaysia Healthcare’s wider strategy of strengthening its presence in key regional markets through sustained collaboration rather than one-off promotional activities. The evening encouraged open conversations on evolving patient needs, healthcare trends, and opportunities for future cooperation between healthcare ecosystems in both countries.

As Malaysia leads the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026, initiatives such as this bring to life the spirit of “Healing Meets Hospitality”, combining high-quality medical care with warmth, empathy, and cultural understanding. Through these efforts, MHTC continues to foster long-term partnerships that enhance healthcare standards and improve patient outcomes across the region.

SOURCE: Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Mohamad Shahizam Fauzi
Head, Communications
Tel: +603 8776 6168
Email: shahizam.f@mhtc.org.my

Name: Muhammad Rasydan Ma’at
Asst. Manager, Communications
Tel: +603 8776 6168
Email: rasydan.m@mhtc.org.my

--BERNAMA

Asian Banking School and Strategic Intelligence-World Economic Forum Partner to Advance Leadership Foresight for Asia’s Financial Sector

Marking a strategic milestone for leadership development in the financial services sector, the Asian Banking School signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Strategic Intelligence – World Economic Forum.

(From left: Mr. Rohn Rajen, Managing Director, Asia & Africa, Strategic Intelligence - World Economic Forum; Dato' Ong Eng Bin, ABS Board Member, Professor Henrik von Scheel, Strategic Intelligence - World Economic Forum, Professor Dr. Manivanan Saman, Chief Executive Officer, ABS, Mr. Donald Joshua Jaganathan, ABS Board Member and Dr. Paramsothy Vijayan, Director, Digital Banking & Leadership, ABS.

 
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Feb 6 (Bernama) -- As global economic power continues to shift from West to East, the Asian Banking School (ABS) convened senior leaders from Malaysia’s banking and financial services industry for an Exclusive Strategic Intelligence Briefing titled “Unlocking the Future of Finance in Asia”.

The closed-door engagement was led by Professor Henrik von Scheel, world-renowned futurist, originator of the Fourth Industrial Revolution concept, and Co-Founder of Strategic Intelligence–World Economic Forum. Fresh from closed-door engagements with global leaders at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos last month, Professor von Scheel shared insights on megatrends, geopolitical realignments, and structural shifts shaping the future of finance in Asia.

The briefing underscored that competitiveness in today’s environment is no longer driven by scale or balance sheets alone, but by the ability to anticipate change early, manage systemic risks, and make informed strategic decisions ahead of disruption.

Speaking at the event, Professor Dr. Manivanan Saman, Chief Executive Officer of the Asian Banking School, emphasised the importance of foresight as a core leadership capability.

“For a smaller, open economy like Malaysia, the cost of delayed understanding is often higher than the cost of early engagement,” said Professor Manivanan. “Strategic intelligence is no longer a nice-to-have. It is a leadership discipline that enables institutions to navigate uncertainty with clarity rather than react under pressure.”

The event also marked the formalisation of a strategic collaboration between ABS and Strategic Intelligence–World Economic Forum, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. The collaboration will enable ABS to embed global foresight methodologies and frameworks into leadership development and advanced executive education for the financial services sector in Malaysia and the region.

A key highlight was the launch of the ABS Centre of Excellence for Leadership (CoEL), established to strengthen leadership judgement and foresight across the banking and financial services industry. The Centre will focus on equipping both emerging and premier leaders with capabilities required to navigate long-term transitions, interconnected risks, and evolving stakeholder expectations.

Professor Henrik von Scheel noted the importance of the collaboration for Malaysia’s leadership landscape.

“Malaysia sits at a critical intersection of global economic, technological, and regulatory change,” said Professor von Scheel. “This collaboration moves beyond discussion to capability-building, ensuring leaders are equipped not only to respond to change, but to shape outcomes in an increasingly uncertain world.”

In addition to the Strategic Intelligence Briefing, ABS outlined leadership engagements planned for 2026, including closed-door Strategic Intelligence sessions for senior leadership teams, a FutureFit Forum, thematic Masterclasses, and an Advanced Executive Education programme in Davos, Switzerland, in collaboration with Strategic Intelligence and the World Economic Forum.

These initiatives reflect ABS’ role as a strategic enabler for the banking and financial services sector, supporting leadership capability aligned with industry competitiveness and long-term economic resilience.

About the Asian Banking School (ABS)

The Asian Banking School (ABS) is the largest specialised provider of quality banking training programmes in the ASEAN region. As the industry’s preferred learning and development partner, ABS delivers customised and open-enrolment programmes across key banking areas, in collaboration with leading global business schools and strategic learning partners.

SOURCE: Asian Banking School (ABS)

FOR MORE INFORMATION & RSVP, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate Communications department
Tel: +603 2701 7822
Email: enquiries@asianbankingschool.com

--BERNAMA

Nexperia Hosts Global Supplier Day in Seremban to Strengthen Long‑Term Growth and Supply Chain Partnerships

SEREMBAN, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Feb 5 (Bernama) -- Nexperia successfully hosted its Global Supplier Day yesterday at its high‑volume production facility in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. The event brought together key partners, including 40 global suppliers from around the world, to align on the company’s expansion strategy and future collaboration opportunities.

In his opening address, Nexperia CEO a.i. Stefan Tilger highlighted the crucial role suppliers play in meeting the rising global demand for semiconductors. Tilger stated, “Our suppliers play a vital role in our ability to serve customers worldwide, and we are grateful for the strong partnerships we have built together. As we navigate this period of operational disruption, our solid financial foundation and shared commitment give us full confidence in the road ahead. We look forward to continuing this journey together, built on trust, transparency, and long-term collaboration.”

Nexperia was also honoured to welcome TS Norhizam Ibrahim, Executive Director, Manufacturing Development (Non‑Resource) of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), who delivered a keynote speech addressing Malaysia’s growing strategic role in the global semiconductor ecosystem. In his remarks, TS Norhizam Ibrahim shared, “This Global Supplier Day serves as a strategic launchpad to reinforce Malaysia’s industrial resilience and build supply chains that can withstand global shocks. Our priority is to seamlessly integrate capable Malaysian companies into the global semiconductor value chain, while strengthening long-term partnerships with industry leaders such as Nexperia.”

The Global Supplier Day comes at a strategic moment for Nexperia as its Seremban site prepares for an accelerated ramp‑up of production capacity. This expansion will contribute to the company’s broader goal of strengthening geographical diversification and ensuring reliable, stable supply to customers worldwide.

Nexperia emphasised that this growth trajectory is only possible through close cooperation with its global network of suppliers. Maintaining strong partnerships remains essential for achieving the company’s ambitious expansion plans and supporting the long‑term resilience of the semiconductor industry, while also reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a strategic hub in the global semiconductor ecosystem.

For media inquiries, please refer to this link: https://tinyurl.com/2d5azpxp

SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Mr. Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar
Director, Electrical & Electronics Division
Tel: +603-2267 6655
Email: mazlan@mida.gov.my

Nexperia
For press information, please contact: media@nexperia.com

--BERNAMA

Roland and Musical Futures International Bring Hands-On Electronic Music Education to Classrooms with the Roland ASPIRE Project

^{Roland and Musical Futures International Bring Hands-On Electronic Music Education to Classrooms with the Roland ASPIRE Project}


SYDNEY, Feb 3 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Roland Corporation and Musical Futures International today announce the Roland ASPIRE Project, a research-informed electronic music education programme designed to support hands-on music-making using tactile, accessible hardware in real classroom settings.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260129251600/en/

Developed for teachers from a wide range of musical backgrounds, the programme prioritises practical music-making over prior technical knowledge. The project is currently active in Bangkok, Melbourne, and Singapore.

At the centre of the programme is a classroom set of Roland AIRA Compact instruments, provided to participating schools free of charge for a six-week period, and supported by teacher workshops, lesson guides, and digital resources. These materials support students at different stages of musical experience, from beginners to more confident creators.

Informed by research in Electronic Music Pedagogy, the programme connects academic insight and real-world music-making with classroom practice. Learning activities emphasise exploration, listening, collaboration, and creative decision-making. Resources include clear tutorials and guided “recreate a track” activities linked to popular music styles students recognise and value.

“Young people connect most deeply with music when they are given the opportunity to create in styles that matter to them,” said David Whitehead, Tactical Marketing Manager at Roland Asia Pacific. “The Roland ASPIRE Project gives teachers practical tools and confidence to support that creative process in their classrooms.”

Educators can explore the resources and learn more about the Roland ASPIRE Project at https://musicalfuturesinternational.org/article/roland-aspire-project-inspiring-the-next-generation-of-music-makers/.

About Roland Corporation

For more than 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories, from pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, drum and percussion products, DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, gaming mixers, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland and its expanding family of brands, including BOSS, V-MODA, Drum Workshop (DW), PDP, Latin Percussion (LP), and Slingerland, continue to lead the way for music makers and creators, providing modern solutions and seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices. For more information, visit Roland.com or see your local Roland dealer. Follow Roland on Facebook, X (@RolandGlobal), and Instagram (@RolandGlobal).

About Musical Futures International

Musical Futures International (MFI) is a not-for-profit music education organisation helping school music teachers to deliver future-focused, learner-led and engaging music programs. MFI works with 1000+ schools in Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asian region to pioneer new approaches to music teaching that reflects how popular musicians learn. MFI does this by providing a huge subscription-based resource platform for teachers, which includes resources for teaching rock/pop music, electronic music, and AI for enhancing human creativity (not replacing it!). MFI also hosts over 20 in-person practical teacher workshops each year, including the popular ‘Big Gig’ conferences. For more information, visit musicalfuturesinternational.org or find us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260129251600/en/

Contact

Roland Contact:
Rebecca Genel
+1 (323) 890-3718
rebecca.genel@roland.com

Musical Futures International Contact:
Chris Koelma
+61 (492) 867-872
chris@musicalfuturesinternational.org

Source : Roland Corporation

KLCCP Stapled Group closes strong with RM719 million Profit Before Tax in Quarter 4, 2025

 KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- KLCCP Stapled Group (the Group) closed 2025 on a strong note, delivering its highest Profit Before Tax (PBT) and revenue since listing.   PBT (including fair value adjustments) rose to RM718.7 million in quarter four, 2025 compared to RM476.4 million in quarter four, 2024, while revenue grew 7.4% to RM493.0 million for the quarter ended 31 December 2025, reflecting continued resilience across all business segments.

This growth was supported by a noteworthy fair value gain of RM460.1 million, recognised during the quarter, reflecting the market value uplift largely in Suria KLCC and PETRONAS Twin Towers.  Building on this, the Group declared a dividend of 19.10 sen per stapled security for the quarter, bringing total dividends for the year to 47.00 sen, an increase of 5.6% compared to 2024.

Quarter 4, 2025 vs. Quarter 4, 2024 - Sustained Momentum Driving Strong Performance Gains

Representing the retail segment, Suria KLCC and the retail podium of Menara 3 PETRONAS sustained its positive momentum for the final quarter, delivering revenue of RM148.2 million, an increase of 6.1% from RM139.6 million.  PBT for this segment stood at RM112.9 million, reflecting an increase of 4.9%.  This was driven by sustained occupancy at 98%, supported by an expanded tenant-mix, featuring refreshed offerings and unique concepts, creating  a vibrant retail environment.

The hotel segment, represented by Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur (MOKUL Hotel), reported lower revenue at RM66.5 million.  Despite the softer revenue, PBT achieved a record high of RM11.4 million, an increase of RM5.9 million.  This is attributed to higher room revenue and reduced financing costs.  Room revenue remained the primary revenue contributor supported by group and leisure stays and high occupancy during the ASEAN summit. 

The office segment comprising the PETRONAS Twin Towers, Menara 3 PETRONAS, Menara ExxonMobil, and Menara Dayabumi remained stable, backed by the Triple Net Lease (TNL) arrangement and long‑term leases.  The segment recorded a revenue of RM145.9 million while PBT stood at RM121.7 million for the current quarter.
 
The management services segment recorded significant growth with increased revenue of 23.2% to RM154.5 million while PBT rose to RM28.1 million, driven by planned maintenance activities and higher car park income. 
 
Year-To-Date: 2025 Performance
 
Year-to-date, the Group demonstrated its solid financial standing, ending the year with a record high revenue of RM1.7 billion. The fair value gains on investment properties further contributed to the increase in PBT of RM1.4 billion, reflecting its continued strength driven by asset quality and operational stability.
 
The year saw the retail segment achieve a PBT of RM450.9 million, up 2.8% while footfall grew by 9%.  This growth reflects Suria KLCC’s continuous efforts in curating a dynamic mix of flagship and first-to-market brands, complemented by immersive and experiential activations designed to surprise and delight.  Suria KLCC brought onboard 30 new tenants during the year, including 8 market firsts with the likes of Smith & Wollensky, Charles Tyrwhitt, Mardi Mercredi, Byredo, Flying Tiger Copenhagen, and Mon Chinese Roti.  It’s high-impact experiential programmes including the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week 2025, the signature Suria KLCC Picnic in the Park, and Malaysia’s first outdoor festive skating rink during the Christmas season has overall contributed to the growth, reinforcing Suria KLCC’s positioning as a leading lifestyle and experiential destination.
 
In the hospitality segment, MOKUL Hotel strengthened its event-led proposition through the refresh of its pillarless Grand Ballroom.  Since the ballroom reopening, MOKUL Hotel has seen a healthy pickup in demand, especially from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) bookings,  supported by a stronger pipeline of premium corporate and social events.  October recorded the strongest month with the highest monthly revenue, driven by ASEAN Summits and high profile events.
 
Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Sr. Mohd. Salem Kailany commented, “The Group’s strong results in 2025 reflects the strength of our diversified portfolio, stable cash flows and disciplined capital management. The Group delivered another record-breaking performance with revenue, profit and dividends, which reached new highs.  During the year, we undertook targeted asset enhancements to maintain competitiveness and to future-proof our asset portfolio and improve long-term efficiency.  These upgrades, together with system improvements across facilities, strengthened our asset performance, enhanced operational reliability and customer experience.  Collectively, these efforts contributed to increase in property valuations and reinforced the long-term value and resilience of our  assets.”
 
Datuk Salem further added, “As we step into 2026, we remain focused on advancing our strategic priorities, strengthening our core businesses, and driving long‑term value for our shareholders.  With Visit Malaysia Year ahead of us, we look forward to the opportunities with optimism and confidence.”
 
Prospects
 
Malaysia enters 2026 with steady economic momentum.  At the same time, the operating environment is becoming increasingly competitive with new malls and hotels entering the market.  The Group remains attentive to these dynamics as it navigates the evolving retail, hospitality and office sectors, and strives to consistently maintain and elevate service excellence and customer experience within the KLCC Precinct.
 
The retail and hospitality segments are expected to benefit from tourist arrivals in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.  Suria KLCC’s  strong brand presence, well-curated tenant mix and continued focus on enhancing experiential shopper engagement will continue to boost footfall and tenant sales.  MOKUL Hotel continues to strengthen its market positioning by enhancing offerings and delivering elevated guest experience through high quality, personalised services for both leisure and corporate guests, supported by the completion of the grand ballroom refurbishment and the upcoming apartments renovation. 
 
The office segment maintains a strong footing anchored by the Triple Net Lease arrangement and long-term leases with quality tenants.  The Group will also continue to amplify placemaking across the integrated KLCC ecosystem through strategic collaborations, events and activations that enhance connectivity, vibrancy and cross traffic, reinforcing KLCC The Place as a premier destination for business, leisure and MICE.

About KLCCP Stapled Group

KLCC Property Holdings Berhad (KLCCP) and KLCC Real Estate Investment Trust (KLCC REIT), collectively known as KLCCP Stapled Group, is Malaysia’s largest self-managed stapled security that invests, develops, owns, and manages a stable of iconic and quality assets.  KLCCP Stapled Group became the first ever Shariah compliant stapled structure in Malaysia upon the listing of KLCC Stapled Securities (KLCCSS) on 9 May 2013 and trades under the REIT sector of the index as a single price quotation.

KLCCP Stapled Group’s core business is in property investment and development, and provision of management services. The Group owns iconic prime assets, namely the PETRONAS Twin Towers, Menara ExxonMobil, and Menara 3 PETRONAS under KLCC REIT and Suria KLCC, the premier shopping mall, Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur hotel and a vacant land (Lot D1) under KLCCP.  KLCCP also has a 33% stake in Menara Maxis.

KLCCP Stapled Group redefines excellence in real estate. With decades of experience building the nation’s iconic landmarks, it has elevated industry standards and expectations, reinforcing its commitment to enriching lives and building a more sustainable future.
 
Issued by:
 
Group Strategic Communications and Investor Relations
 
29 January 2026

SOURCE: KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Yasmin Abdullah
Manager, Corporate Communications
Group Strategic Communications and Investor Relations
KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd
Tel: +603-27837584
Email: yasmina@klcc.com.my 

--BERNAMA

MIDA STANDS READY TO IMPLEMENT NEW OUTCOME-BASED INCENTIVE FRAMEWORK FROM 1 MARCH

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- Pursuant to the announcement made by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) on 29 January 2026, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) stands ready to operationalise the New Incentive Framework (NIF) from 1 March 2026, marking a shift towards an outcome-based, value-driven investment approach in Malaysia.
The framework will be applied to the manufacturing sector first, followed by the services sector in the second quarter of 2026. The NIF essentially ties tax incentives directly to measurable economic outcomes. Companies will be assessed using the National Investment Aspirations (NIA) Scorecard*, which quantifies contributions to job quality, technology transfer, supply chain resilience and sustainability.

Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, MIDA Chairman, said the framework is premised on the fundamental principle of returns on (incentive) investment by the Government. "The NIF is designed to ensure that every ringgit of foregone revenue delivers meaningful, multiplied returns to the nation’s economy. Our priority is not merely to attract investments, but to secure greater value, deeper industrial linkages, and better benefits for the Malaysian economy, SMEs and our people."

In terms of implementation, incentive applications for manufacturing sector under the Promotion of Investments Act 1986 will still be accepted by MIDA no later than 3.00pm on 28 February 2026. All new manufacturing sector incentive applications submitted from 1 March 2026 onwards will be assessed under the NIF. Manufacturing companies with existing approvals will not be affected, and their incentives will continue under the approved terms and conditions.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA Chief Executive Officer, said, "MIDA fully supports the implementation of the NIF as it represents a major step forward in ensuring that Malaysia attracts the right type of investments—those that are high-value, innovation-driven and sustainable. By linking incentives to clear performance outcomes, the NIF strengthens investor confidence while delivering spillover benefits to the domestic economy, especially for local SMEs and Malaysian talents."

The framework offers two mutually exclusive incentive options: a special tax rate or an investment tax allowance. Companies may choose the option that best suits their project profile and business model.

MIDA will actively guide investors through the transition from the previous incentive regime to the NIF. The application process will be integrated into MIDA's digital platforms, providing end-to-end processing for investors. Implementation guidelines, frequently asked questions (FAQs), covering eligibility criteria, scorecard assessment parameters and evaluation processes, are now available on MIDA's official website and MITI’s NIF microsite.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim added, "We look forward to working closely with investors throughout this transition. MIDA remains committed to facilitating and supporting both new and existing investors, to ensure the projects approved under the NIF deliver strong national outcomes in line with the NIA."

MIDA will also intensify engagement and outreach sessions to ensure awareness and readiness among domestic and foreign investors, particularly within the manufacturing and services sectors. This rollout will be supported through close collaboration with MITI and the Ministry of Finance.

The NIF represents Malaysia's most significant shift in investment policy in decades. For further information and application guidance, investors may refer to the NIF Implementation Guidelines on MIDA’s official website at www.mida.gov.my.

About MIDA
MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

*Note: The NIF will be assessed in alignment with six (6) pillars of the National Investment Aspirations (NIA), namely:
• Increasing economic complexity
• Creating high-value job opportunities
• Strengthening domestic linkages
• Developing new and existing clusters
• Improving inclusivity
• Enhancing sustainability practices

APPENDIX: INDUSTRY RESPONSE

Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM)
Mr. Jacob Lee, President:

"The introduction of the NIF is timely as manufacturers are navigating technological transformation, supply chain reconfiguration and sustainability requirements. The outcome-based model provides greater clarity and encourages companies to upgrade, move up the value chain and invest in higher-productivity activities. FMM looks forward to continued engagement with the Government to ensure smooth implementation and practical facilitation for our members."

Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) Ms. Christina Tee, National President:

"As the voice of the international business community in Malaysia, MICCI welcomes the NIF as announced in the National Budget 2026. The new framework is a bold step toward global competitiveness. Our members, who represent a significant portion of Malaysia's Foreign Investment (FI), value the framework’s transparency and its shift toward capability-driven growth, and we believe this performance-linked approach will provide the long-term predictability that global investors require to commit to Malaysia’s structural transformation."

SME Association of Malaysia
Dr. Chin Chee Seong, National President:

"The SME Association of Malaysia views the NIF as a vital mechanism for integrating our MSMEs into the global value chain. The focus on 'Domestic Linkages' within the NIA Scorecard is particularly encouraging, as it incentivises large foreign and local investors to deepen their collaborations with local vendors. This is a golden opportunity for Malaysian SMEs to level up their technology and ESG standards. We are committed to working with MIDA to ensure our members are 'NIF-ready' and can effectively support the high-impact projects that this framework aims to attract."

SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Ms. Yusni Md. Yusop
Director, Strategic Planning & Policy Advocacy (Manufacturing) Division
Tel.: +603- 2267 3681
Email: yusni@mida.gov.my

--BERNAMA

SHANGHAI ROLLS OUT "SPRING FESTIVAL GIFT PACKS" TO BOOST FESTIVE TOURISM

Shanghai rolls out "Spring Festival Gift Packs".

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- Shanghai is rolling out a series of "Spring Festival Gift Packs" to make it easier and more enjoyable for residents and visitors to experience the city during the holiday period as the Year of the Horse approaches.


Led by the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, the initiative features discounted tickets, themed activities, and cultural offerings across 60 popular city attractions.


According to a statement, the gift packs form part of Shanghai’s broader push to boost festive tourism and encourage people to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year in the city, offering a wide range of affordable options tailored to different visitor groups.


The gift packs offer ticket discounts of up to 50 per cent at participating scenic spots, together with special Chinese zodiac-themed promotions and combo passes, making sightseeing more affordable for families, tourists and local residents.


The discounts are complemented by a lineup of supporting events, including intangible cultural heritage performances, interactive pet-themed activities, traditional market fairs and bazaars featuring China-chic trends.


In addition, travel agencies and hotels have curated itineraries with a "Spring Festival vibe" and "Spring Celebration" activities covering family-friendly, cultural and rural leisure experiences, providing multiple options for holiday outings.


The initiative also aligns with the ongoing “Discover Shanghai” Tourism Guide Super Competition, which has generated practical and innovative tour recommendations that are now being developed into tourism products.


Industry observers said Shanghai continues to strengthen its appeal as a winter destination by combining affordability with cultural depth, with the gift packs helping to make travel more economical while immersing visitors in local customs during one of China’s most important traditional holidays.


The offers will be available throughout the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday period, with detailed information accessible through official tourism platforms such as "Hu Xiaoyou" and Trip.com.


-- BERNAMA