DENVER, June 3 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As global crypto market regulatory systems become increasingly sophisticated, compliance has become an inevitable trend for trading platform development. SKHTU Exchange recently announced its official acquisition of an operating license from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), making it one of the few compliant trading platforms meeting US securities regulatory standards. This milestone marks a significant breakthrough in the SKHTU compliance framework and lays a solid foundation for its global strategy.
The SEC, as the most authoritative financial regulator worldwide, sets licensing standards covering asset custody, investor protection, information disclosure, and anti-money laundering (AML), among other stringent requirements. Obtaining this certification means the platform must achieve the same standards as traditional securities markets in operational transparency, fund security, and compliance governance.
With the SEC license, SKHTU Exchange can provide legitimate trading services in the US and other regulated markets, covering spot, derivatives, asset management, and RWA (real-world asset) business areas. This gives the platform higher market access qualifications and provides institutional clients and multinational investors with a secure, regulation-compliant investment environment.
The SKHTU Exchange compliance team stated: “Obtaining the SEC license is not only a breakthrough in compliance, but also represents our long-term commitment to global users. Regulatory involvement is not a restriction, but the starting point for trust. We aim to provide reliable financial services for investors with a higher-standard regulatory framework.”
Industry experts believe that the SEC license is a key sign of crypto trading platforms entering the institutional stage, enabling platforms to play a deeper role in capital markets and providing a legal foundation for RWA tokenization, compliant issuance of financial derivatives, and cross-border asset allocation. As global regulatory consensus forms, platforms with SEC qualifications will have significant advantages in future market competition.
This milestone symbolizes a critical leap in the compliance landscape of SKHTU Exchange. From the crypto ecosystem to traditional finance, SKHTU uses compliance as a bridge to build safe and sustainable digital financial infrastructure, offering global users a more robust investment environment.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8505d29a-d3fe-4f9f-8ef3-e5ce250001b5
Contact: Ridzuan-support@skhtu.org
SOURCE: Skhtu Exchange Services Ltd
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
Wednesday, 3 June 2026
BLACKSTONE CLOSES LARGEST ASIA PRIVATE EQUITY FUND AT US$13.1 BLN
KUALA LUMPUR, June 3 (Bernama) -- Blackstone, an alternative asset manager, has announced the final close of Blackstone Capital Partners Asia III (BCP Asia III) at US$13.1 billion, exceeding its US$10 billion target and marking the firm's largest private equity fundraise in Asia. (US$1=RM3.96)
The oversubscribed fund reached its hard cap and builds on the strong performance of the strategy’s first two vintages, with this close representing more than double the amount of capital raised for its predecessor vehicle.
“We are grateful for the continued trust of our investors in Blackstone and our leading Asia Private Equity franchise. This successful fundraise reflects the strength of our platform and our ability to perform through cycles,” said Blackstone Private Equity Strategies Global Head, Joe Baratta in a statement.
Meanwhile, Blackstone Private Equity Head of Asia, Amit Dixit said: “We believe our differentiation lies in our scale, supported by homegrown teams across the region’s major markets; strong performance; and our control-orientated strategy that enables us to have a hands-on, proactive approach to supporting business transformations. We thank our investors for their support and partnership.”
The firm invested more than US$7 billion across 12 transactions in the region over the past 24 months.
The investments include Neysa, a fast-growing Indian artificial intelligence cloud platform; TechnoPro, Japan's leading specialised engineering services provider; and JUNO, South Korea's top hair salon franchise.
Blackstone also completed 15 exits during the same period, including the listings of International Gemological Institute and Aadhar Housing Finance, as well as its exit from Alinamin Pharmaceutical in Japan.
-- BERNAMA
The oversubscribed fund reached its hard cap and builds on the strong performance of the strategy’s first two vintages, with this close representing more than double the amount of capital raised for its predecessor vehicle.
“We are grateful for the continued trust of our investors in Blackstone and our leading Asia Private Equity franchise. This successful fundraise reflects the strength of our platform and our ability to perform through cycles,” said Blackstone Private Equity Strategies Global Head, Joe Baratta in a statement.
Meanwhile, Blackstone Private Equity Head of Asia, Amit Dixit said: “We believe our differentiation lies in our scale, supported by homegrown teams across the region’s major markets; strong performance; and our control-orientated strategy that enables us to have a hands-on, proactive approach to supporting business transformations. We thank our investors for their support and partnership.”
The firm invested more than US$7 billion across 12 transactions in the region over the past 24 months.
The investments include Neysa, a fast-growing Indian artificial intelligence cloud platform; TechnoPro, Japan's leading specialised engineering services provider; and JUNO, South Korea's top hair salon franchise.
Blackstone also completed 15 exits during the same period, including the listings of International Gemological Institute and Aadhar Housing Finance, as well as its exit from Alinamin Pharmaceutical in Japan.
-- BERNAMA
CGC TO IMPLEMENT RM10 BILLION BNM-CGC PORTFOLIO GUARANTEE SCHEMES FOR MSME GROWTH, INCLUSION AND RESILIENCE
PETALING JAYA, June 3 (Bernama) -- Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (“CGC”) will roll out the BNM-CGC Portfolio Guarantee (PG) and Portfolio Guarantee-i (PG-i) schemes, supporting up to RM10 billion in guaranteed financing for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Building on Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) earlier announcement, the schemes are designed to broaden MSMEs’ access to financing across growth and strategic sectors, with CGC serving as the implementation and risk-sharing platform alongside participating financial institutions.
This marks a shift from direct lending support through non-relief facilities toward a scalable, guarantee-based model that enables participating financial institutions to support viable MSMEs, including first-time borrowers and businesses investing in future growth.
The PG and PG-i schemes are structured around four policy objectives: expanding financial inclusion for underserved MSMEs, supporting climate and sustainability transition, improving productivity, and strengthening business resilience. These objectives translate into targeted support for microenterprises, startups, sustainability-focused businesses, enterprises in emerging and strategic sectors, and MSMEs investing in innovation, productivity and resilience.
President and Chief Executive Officer of CGC, Encik Mohamed Nazri Omar, said: “This signals a move from direct lending support toward a larger, guarantee-based financing model that enables financial institutions to lend with greater confidence to viable MSMEs, including first-time borrowers, smaller businesses, and enterprises investing in future growth. Through our targeted risk-sharing approach with participating financial institutions, we want to change the way they evaluate these underserved market segments to create new opportunities and contribute to a stronger and resilient economy.”
Unlike short-term facilities that primarily address immediate cash-flow and working-capital pressures, the PG and PG-i schemes are designed to support longer-term MSME growth, productivity upgrading, sustainability transition and resilience-building. They complement BNM’s SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SME SRF), which provides short-term relief of up to RM750,000 in working capital over tenures of up to 5 years, and the earlier RM300 million PG Relief Scheme, which offers targeted relief of RM20,000 to RM500,000, up to 90% coverage, and up to 7 years for affected MSMEs. Together, these initiatives span the full spectrum from immediate relief to long-term growth.
Under the PG and PG-i schemes, eligible MSMEs can access:
• Financing of up to RM10 million per MSME, supporting expansion and long-term investment
• Tenures of up to 10 years, offering flexible and manageable repayment terms
• Guarantee coverage of up to 85%, helping eligible MSMEs with limited collateral improve their access to financing, subject to credit assessment by participating financial institutions
• Guarantee fees from as low as 1%, keeping overall costs affordable
For further details on the schemes, visit CGC’s website at www.cgc.com.my (BNM-CGC Portfolio Guarantee schemes page). Alternatively, MSMEs may contact CGC’s Client Service Centre at 03-7880 0088, email csc@cgc.com.my, or reach out to any of CGC’s branches nationwide.
About CGC
Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC) was established on 5 July 1972. It is 78.65% owned by Bank Negara Malaysia and 21.35% by the commercial banks in Malaysia. CGC aims to assist Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) with inadequate or without collateral and track records to obtain credit facilities from financial institutions by providing guarantee cover on such facilities. As of April 2026, CGC has availed over 547,000 guarantees and financing to MSMEs valued at over RM104 billion since its establishment.
On 9 February 2018, CGC introduced imSME, Malaysia’s first MSME online financing/loan referral platform. The imSME serves as an alternative channel for MSMEs to source for financing products, saving them both the time and the hassle of going through time-consuming processes. Since inception, the imSME portal had received more than 3.19 million visits, with more than 144,987 registered MSMEs under the portal.
For more information, please visit www.cgc.com.my and imsme.com.my.
SOURCE: Credit Guarantee Corporation (CGC)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Azman Idrus
Head of Strategic Management & Communications
Name: Azri Zulfadli Fadil
Head of Branding & Events
Email: ccsr@cgc.com.my
--BERNAMA
This marks a shift from direct lending support through non-relief facilities toward a scalable, guarantee-based model that enables participating financial institutions to support viable MSMEs, including first-time borrowers and businesses investing in future growth.
The PG and PG-i schemes are structured around four policy objectives: expanding financial inclusion for underserved MSMEs, supporting climate and sustainability transition, improving productivity, and strengthening business resilience. These objectives translate into targeted support for microenterprises, startups, sustainability-focused businesses, enterprises in emerging and strategic sectors, and MSMEs investing in innovation, productivity and resilience.
President and Chief Executive Officer of CGC, Encik Mohamed Nazri Omar, said: “This signals a move from direct lending support toward a larger, guarantee-based financing model that enables financial institutions to lend with greater confidence to viable MSMEs, including first-time borrowers, smaller businesses, and enterprises investing in future growth. Through our targeted risk-sharing approach with participating financial institutions, we want to change the way they evaluate these underserved market segments to create new opportunities and contribute to a stronger and resilient economy.”
Unlike short-term facilities that primarily address immediate cash-flow and working-capital pressures, the PG and PG-i schemes are designed to support longer-term MSME growth, productivity upgrading, sustainability transition and resilience-building. They complement BNM’s SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SME SRF), which provides short-term relief of up to RM750,000 in working capital over tenures of up to 5 years, and the earlier RM300 million PG Relief Scheme, which offers targeted relief of RM20,000 to RM500,000, up to 90% coverage, and up to 7 years for affected MSMEs. Together, these initiatives span the full spectrum from immediate relief to long-term growth.
Under the PG and PG-i schemes, eligible MSMEs can access:
• Financing of up to RM10 million per MSME, supporting expansion and long-term investment
• Tenures of up to 10 years, offering flexible and manageable repayment terms
• Guarantee coverage of up to 85%, helping eligible MSMEs with limited collateral improve their access to financing, subject to credit assessment by participating financial institutions
• Guarantee fees from as low as 1%, keeping overall costs affordable
For further details on the schemes, visit CGC’s website at www.cgc.com.my (BNM-CGC Portfolio Guarantee schemes page). Alternatively, MSMEs may contact CGC’s Client Service Centre at 03-7880 0088, email csc@cgc.com.my, or reach out to any of CGC’s branches nationwide.
About CGC
Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC) was established on 5 July 1972. It is 78.65% owned by Bank Negara Malaysia and 21.35% by the commercial banks in Malaysia. CGC aims to assist Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) with inadequate or without collateral and track records to obtain credit facilities from financial institutions by providing guarantee cover on such facilities. As of April 2026, CGC has availed over 547,000 guarantees and financing to MSMEs valued at over RM104 billion since its establishment.
On 9 February 2018, CGC introduced imSME, Malaysia’s first MSME online financing/loan referral platform. The imSME serves as an alternative channel for MSMEs to source for financing products, saving them both the time and the hassle of going through time-consuming processes. Since inception, the imSME portal had received more than 3.19 million visits, with more than 144,987 registered MSMEs under the portal.
For more information, please visit www.cgc.com.my and imsme.com.my.
SOURCE: Credit Guarantee Corporation (CGC)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Azman Idrus
Head of Strategic Management & Communications
Name: Azri Zulfadli Fadil
Head of Branding & Events
Email: ccsr@cgc.com.my
--BERNAMA
Tuesday, 26 May 2026
KPS Berhad’s 1Q26 Revenue Moderates Amidst Cautious Demand Environments
- Lower Contributions from Toyoplas and CPI Weigh on Performance
- Customer Diversification and Operational Discipline Remain Key Priorities
SHAH ALAM, Malaysia, May 25 (Bernama) -- Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad (“KPS Berhad” or “the Group”) (KPS, Bursa: 5843; Bloomberg: KUPS:MK; Reuters: KPSB.KL) today announced its financial results for the first quarter ended 31 March 2026 (“1Q26”). Against a backdrop of cautious demand conditions and measured customer procurement activities across the manufacturing sector, KPS Berhad recorded a lower revenue of RM208.2 million compared with RM243.5 million in the corresponding quarter last year (“1Q25”). Operating profit correspondingly moderated to RM8.6 million from RM13.7 million year-on-year (“YoY”), affected by lower production volumes, weaker operating leverage and net foreign exchange losses. Consequently, profit after tax and zakat (“PAT”) declined to RM2.7 million, compared with RM8.2 million in 1Q25.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE QUARTER ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
The operating environment remained cautious during the quarter amidst persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and uneven global demand conditions, which continued to weigh on customer planning visibility and confidence across parts of the manufacturing sector. Inventory replenishment activities remained measured, as customers adopted a more circumspect procurement approach and increasingly staggered ordering patterns, particularly within consumer electronics-related segments. Meanwhile, the packaging sector continued to face pricing pressures arising from high competition and low-cost imports from China.
Revenue consequently moderated to RM208.2 million for the first quarter of 2026, representing a 14% decline compared with RM243.5 million in the same quarter last year. The manufacturing business remained the Group’s main revenue contributor, contributing RM171.7 million compared with RM204.1 million in 1Q25.
Toyoplas Manufacturing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (“Toyoplas”) remained the Group’s largest revenue contributor this quarter at RM74.3 million, albeit lower by RM26.3 million YoY due to softer order volumes amidst ongoing customer recalibration activities and cautious demand visibility across selected end markets. The lower contribution was further affected by a key customer’s adjustment in contract manufacturing allocation during the quarter. Nevertheless, contributions from new projects in Vietnam partially mitigated the decline.
CPI (Penang) Sdn Bhd (“CPI”) recorded revenue of RM46.5 million, down RM6.3 million from RM52.8 million previously, mainly due to lower sales across most business segments except healthcare, which continued to benefit from new project contributions. Topline performance was further moderated by the stronger Ringgit Malaysia against the US Dollar, as a meaningful portion of CPI’s sales remained denominated in USD.
MDS Advance Sdn Bhd (“MDS Advance”) maintained a relatively stable revenue of RM5.1 million compared with RM5.2 million in 1Q25. This was supported by the fulfilment of selected customer project requirements within its medical-related segment. This was despite a higher comparative base arising from certain customers front-loading deliveries within the electronics segment in the corresponding quarter last year.
Meanwhile, Century Bond Bhd (“CBB”) recorded revenue of RM45.8 million, broadly in line with the corresponding quarter last year. The paper division provided a stable contribution during the quarter, partially cushioning weaker demand conditions and continued pricing pressures across the carton division amidst intense competition within the packaging sector.
The trading business, represented by Aqua-Flo Sdn Bhd (“Aqua-Flo”), contributed RM36.5 million to the Group’s revenue, compared with RM39.4 million in 1Q25. The lower contribution was mainly attributable to weaker chemical sales amidst evolving procurement dynamics. Nevertheless, contributions from water meters and project-related activities continued to provide support to the overall performance of the trading business.
The Group recorded an operating profit of RM8.6 million compared with RM13.7 million a year earlier. The lower operating profit was primarily attributable to weaker fixed cost absorption arising from lower production volumes across several manufacturing subsidiaries. The impact was compounded by a RM1.0 million net foreign exchange loss during the quarter. The Group also recorded a RM0.4 million share of loss from associates compared with a RM0.8 million share of profit previously, primarily due to lower contribution from NGC Energy Sdn Bhd.
Against this backdrop of softer demand conditions and weaker operating leverage across manufacturing subsidiaries, PAT correspondingly retreated to RM2.7 million from RM8.2 million in 1Q25.
MANAGING DIRECTOR/GROUP CEO’S REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE
The softer performance this quarter reflected the measured operating environment across parts of the manufacturing sector, as customers continued to adopt cautious procurement and inventory management approaches amidst ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties. Demand visibility across selected consumer electronics-related segments also remained uneven during the period. Our customers continued to adopt measured inventory replenishment and production planning activities amidst broader cyclical demand moderation, resulting in softer order volumes at Toyoplas, CPI and CBB.
Against this backdrop of constrained visibility, the Group remains focused on strengthening operating resilience to preserve long-term competitiveness and maintaining disciplined operational execution across its subsidiaries.
Operational resilience initiatives continue to be reinforced through ongoing cost optimisation and operational efficiency measures; for example, the solarisation initiatives at Toyoplas and CPI, as well as the planned development of Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQs) to support workforce stability and operating efficiencies across selected manufacturing operations. Concurrently, the Group continues to strengthen long- term competitiveness through capability enhancement initiatives and internationally recognised operational standards, including Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) accreditation efforts undertaken at CBB, Toyoplas, CPI, in line with evolving customer expectations and supply chain requirements.
We continue to prioritise revenue quality and deepen exposure towards more resilient medical and industrial- related segments. This includes ongoing efforts by CPI and MDS Advance to expand participation in medical- related projects, while maintaining agility in responding to evolving customer requirements and market conditions.
GROUP PROSPECT
Market conditions are expected to remain cautious in the near term amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, potential volatility in energy, resin and logistics-related costs, and slower demand recovery across parts of the manufacturing sector. Customers are also expected to remain selective in procurement, inventory replenishment and production planning activities as broader cyclical demand moderation continues to weigh on demand visibility across selected sectors. Meanwhile, pricing pressures across parts of the packaging segment are expected to persist amidst continued competitive intensity and low-cost imports. Further escalation in geopolitical tensions would potentially contribute to additional supply chain and cost pressures across certain operating segments.
The Group shall continue to leverage the strengths of its diversified business portfolio across multiple sectors and customer segments to support earnings resilience amidst uneven market conditions. Operational discipline remains a key focus through ongoing capability enhancement, operational efficiency and cost optimisation initiatives across the subsidiary companies. The Group shall also work closely with selected customers on cost pass-through mechanisms where appropriate to partially mitigate the impact of cost fluctuations and margin pressures across certain operating segments. Focus also remains on close working capital management and targeted operational improvement initiatives to preserve operational flexibility and support long-term value creation priorities.
While near-term prospects are expected to remain cautious, KPS Berhad believes its diversified operating base, disciplined execution approach and continued focus on operational resilience position to respond effectively as market conditions stabilise over the longer term.
About Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad (www.kps.com.my)
Incorporated on 11 August 1975, Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad (“KPS Berhad” or “the Group”) is an investment holding company listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad under the Industrial Products & Services Sector. KPS Berhad has core investments in the Manufacturing sector. While enhancing shareholder value by optimising returns, KPS Berhad is committed to contributing to sustainable economic, environmental, and social development.
Source: Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad (KPS Berhad)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ch’ng Geik Ling
Investor Relations, Sustainability & Communications
Email: chng@kps.com.my
Tel: +603 5524 8444
Name: Akil Mansiz
Investor Relations, Sustainability & Communications
Email: akilmansiz@kps.com.my
Tel: +603 5524 8444
--BERNAMA
CIMB records resilient 1Q26, underpinned by disciplined execution of Forward30 strategy
Delivers RM1.9 billion net profit, translating to 11.0% ROE
KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 (Bernama) -- CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Group”) delivered a resilient performance, recording a net profit of RM1.9 billion for the first quarter ended 31 March 2026 (“1Q26”), translating to return on equity (“ROE”) of 11.0% and earnings per share (“EPS”) of 17.8 sen. The performance reflected the Group’s steady underlying momentum despite FX and geopolitical headwinds, supported by disciplined execution of its Forward30 strategy.
Operating income remained stable QoQ at RM5.4 billion, supported by strong non-interest income (“NOII”), which rose 11.9% QoQ to RM1.7 billion on stronger trading and FX income. This helped offset a 5.0% QoQ decline in net interest income (“NII”) to RM3.7 billion, due to Group net interest margin (“NIM”) compression of 2bps during the quarter, although the impact on NII was partially cushioned by asset growth. Nonetheless, the Group is seeing early signs of NIM compression bottoming out, with country-level NIM expanding QoQ by 1bp in Malaysia, 12bps in Singapore and 5bps in Thailand.
CIMB’s total assets and gross loans grew marginally during the quarter, while its Cash-led strategy continued to gain traction. Total current account saving account (“CASA”) expanded further, bringing the CASA ratio to 43.3% as at Mar-26, from 42.7% in Dec-25.
The Group remains relentless in becoming simpler, better and faster to drive productivity and efficiency. CIMB continues to simplify processes, strengthen execution and maintain strict cost discipline. During the quarter, operating expenses declined 5.5% QoQ, contributing to an improvement in the cost-to-income ratio (“CIR”) to 47.2% in Mar-26 from 49.9% in Dec-25, while investments in technology, data and AI remained within its target TCIR range of 8–9%.
Asset quality remained strong, with gross impaired loan ratio maintained at 1.7%, reflecting disciplined risk management amid a more uncertain macroeconomic environment. Capital and liquidity positions remained robust, with Common Equity Tier 1 (“CET1”) ratio at 14.3%, providing sufficient capacity to absorb potential headwinds and support future growth.
Forward30 progress
The Group is beginning to see the impact of its Forward30 strategy, with clear execution across the 4Cs. CIMB remains disciplined with Capital allocation, as reflected in the RM2 billion capital return programme announced in November 2025 and the recent sale of CIMB Thai’s automotive financing portfolio, a key milestone in CIMB Thai’s transformation programme. The divestment is expected to sharpen CIMB Thai’s operating model, with sale proceeds and capital released to be used to repay high-cost funding in Thailand, support growth in the Wealth and Wholesale segments, and return up to THB11 billion in capital to the Group.
Under its Cash strategy, CIMB is executing a Cash-led approach to optimise funding costs and cushion the impact of NIM compression. This contributed to a 7bps QoQ reduction in cost of funds, reflecting continued focus on strengthening the quality and sustainability of the Group’s funding base.
Cross-sell initiatives are also translating into stronger customer income, with fee and commission income rising 4.0% QoQ, and treasury client sales up 1.0% QoQ. CIMB is deepening customer relationships and capturing more opportunities across its regional platform, supported by its expanding wealth franchise and strategic partnerships. This includes the launch of its Private Wealth proposition in Indonesia, with a rollout in Malaysia planned for mid‑2026, followed by Singapore and Thailand by end‑2026, as well as its collaboration with Ant International to explore innovations in cross-border payments, cash management, treasury and liquidity management solutions.
Outlook
Commenting on the results, Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Group said, “We are encouraged by the resilience of our performance and the early signs of NIM stabilisation, supported by disciplined balance sheet management and sustained customer activity across our core markets. As Forward30 gains traction, we remain focused on being disciplined with capital, strengthening our funding franchise and making the organisation simpler, better and faster to deliver sustainable long-term returns.”
“At the same time, we will continue investing in our digital and regional capabilities to strengthen our franchise, deepen customer relationships and capture longer-term growth opportunities across ASEAN. As we build for the future, we remain committed to being a trusted partner to our customers and SMEs as they navigate this challenging macroeconomic environment, including through repayment assistance programmes and customised restructuring and rescheduling solutions to help them build resilience.”
“Looking ahead, CIMB remains cautiously optimistic. While our direct exposure to West Asia remains limited, we continue to assess potential second-order impacts on the broader macroeconomic and operating environment. We continue to see resilient asset and loan growth, supported by a healthy pipeline, alongside steady client franchise income across our key markets. Together with continued cost discipline, robust asset quality and disciplined capital allocation, the Group is well positioned to deliver sustainable performance and long-term value creation for our stakeholders, in line with our purpose of advancing customers and society.”
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 RM81.6 billion as at 31 March 2026. 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 545 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 31 March 2026. 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 91.45% 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
KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 (Bernama) -- CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Group”) delivered a resilient performance, recording a net profit of RM1.9 billion for the first quarter ended 31 March 2026 (“1Q26”), translating to return on equity (“ROE”) of 11.0% and earnings per share (“EPS”) of 17.8 sen. The performance reflected the Group’s steady underlying momentum despite FX and geopolitical headwinds, supported by disciplined execution of its Forward30 strategy.
Operating income remained stable QoQ at RM5.4 billion, supported by strong non-interest income (“NOII”), which rose 11.9% QoQ to RM1.7 billion on stronger trading and FX income. This helped offset a 5.0% QoQ decline in net interest income (“NII”) to RM3.7 billion, due to Group net interest margin (“NIM”) compression of 2bps during the quarter, although the impact on NII was partially cushioned by asset growth. Nonetheless, the Group is seeing early signs of NIM compression bottoming out, with country-level NIM expanding QoQ by 1bp in Malaysia, 12bps in Singapore and 5bps in Thailand.
CIMB’s total assets and gross loans grew marginally during the quarter, while its Cash-led strategy continued to gain traction. Total current account saving account (“CASA”) expanded further, bringing the CASA ratio to 43.3% as at Mar-26, from 42.7% in Dec-25.
The Group remains relentless in becoming simpler, better and faster to drive productivity and efficiency. CIMB continues to simplify processes, strengthen execution and maintain strict cost discipline. During the quarter, operating expenses declined 5.5% QoQ, contributing to an improvement in the cost-to-income ratio (“CIR”) to 47.2% in Mar-26 from 49.9% in Dec-25, while investments in technology, data and AI remained within its target TCIR range of 8–9%.
Asset quality remained strong, with gross impaired loan ratio maintained at 1.7%, reflecting disciplined risk management amid a more uncertain macroeconomic environment. Capital and liquidity positions remained robust, with Common Equity Tier 1 (“CET1”) ratio at 14.3%, providing sufficient capacity to absorb potential headwinds and support future growth.
Forward30 progress
The Group is beginning to see the impact of its Forward30 strategy, with clear execution across the 4Cs. CIMB remains disciplined with Capital allocation, as reflected in the RM2 billion capital return programme announced in November 2025 and the recent sale of CIMB Thai’s automotive financing portfolio, a key milestone in CIMB Thai’s transformation programme. The divestment is expected to sharpen CIMB Thai’s operating model, with sale proceeds and capital released to be used to repay high-cost funding in Thailand, support growth in the Wealth and Wholesale segments, and return up to THB11 billion in capital to the Group.
Under its Cash strategy, CIMB is executing a Cash-led approach to optimise funding costs and cushion the impact of NIM compression. This contributed to a 7bps QoQ reduction in cost of funds, reflecting continued focus on strengthening the quality and sustainability of the Group’s funding base.
Cross-sell initiatives are also translating into stronger customer income, with fee and commission income rising 4.0% QoQ, and treasury client sales up 1.0% QoQ. CIMB is deepening customer relationships and capturing more opportunities across its regional platform, supported by its expanding wealth franchise and strategic partnerships. This includes the launch of its Private Wealth proposition in Indonesia, with a rollout in Malaysia planned for mid‑2026, followed by Singapore and Thailand by end‑2026, as well as its collaboration with Ant International to explore innovations in cross-border payments, cash management, treasury and liquidity management solutions.
Outlook
Commenting on the results, Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Group said, “We are encouraged by the resilience of our performance and the early signs of NIM stabilisation, supported by disciplined balance sheet management and sustained customer activity across our core markets. As Forward30 gains traction, we remain focused on being disciplined with capital, strengthening our funding franchise and making the organisation simpler, better and faster to deliver sustainable long-term returns.”
“At the same time, we will continue investing in our digital and regional capabilities to strengthen our franchise, deepen customer relationships and capture longer-term growth opportunities across ASEAN. As we build for the future, we remain committed to being a trusted partner to our customers and SMEs as they navigate this challenging macroeconomic environment, including through repayment assistance programmes and customised restructuring and rescheduling solutions to help them build resilience.”
“Looking ahead, CIMB remains cautiously optimistic. While our direct exposure to West Asia remains limited, we continue to assess potential second-order impacts on the broader macroeconomic and operating environment. We continue to see resilient asset and loan growth, supported by a healthy pipeline, alongside steady client franchise income across our key markets. Together with continued cost discipline, robust asset quality and disciplined capital allocation, the Group is well positioned to deliver sustainable performance and long-term value creation for our stakeholders, in line with our purpose of advancing customers and society.”
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 RM81.6 billion as at 31 March 2026. 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 545 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 31 March 2026. 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 91.45% 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
MHTC Deepens China Market Presence as Medical Travel Revenue Surpasses RM200 Million
GUANGZHOU, May 25 (Bernama) -- In response to growing demand from China, the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) recently launched Malaysia Healthcare Week Guangzhou, a five-day B2B market activation designed to strengthen referral pathways and deepen strategic partnerships within one of China’s most commercially influential healthcare travel corridors. The initiative comes as healthcare traveller arrivals from China recorded a compound annual growth rate of 23% between 2023 and 2025, surpassing 120,000 visitors and generating more than RM200 million in revenue for the first time. Held in Guangzhou, the activation brought together Malaysian healthcare providers, travel industry stakeholders, media representatives, and business partners through a series of targeted engagements focused on referral development, trust-building, and long-term cross-border healthcare collaboration.
The initiative formed part of Malaysia Healthcare’s broader international market strategy under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT 2026) campaign, which continues to position Malaysia as a preferred healthcare destination through the theme Healing Meets Hospitality. Unlike conventional consumer-focused campaigns, MH Week in Guangzhou was designed around a more targeted B2B-driven approach, reflecting the evolving dynamics of China’s outbound healthcare travel ecosystem. Insights gathered from previous market engagements showed that healthcare travel decisions in China are increasingly influenced by intermediary networks, including travel agencies, medical facilitators, insurers, and established referral ecosystems.
The programme focused on deepening engagement with key industry enablers that influence patient mobility while strengthening long-term referral pathways into Malaysia. Over five days, participants took part in a series of strategic engagements, including business matching sessions, a travel agency networking event, a private dinner centred on China’s growing silver economy, and a dedicated media engagement designed to enhance the visibility of healthcare narratives and strengthen institutional credibility in the market. Commenting on the initiative, Muhammad Hizami Aizat Che Harun, Head of Marketing Department, MHTC, said the Guangzhou activation reflected Malaysia Healthcare’s shift towards more focused, market-specific engagement strategies that prioritise quality partnerships and sustainable market growth.
“China continues to evolve into a highly strategic healthcare travel market, particularly with the rise of affluent middle-to-high income segments and the rapid expansion of the ageing population. Today’s healthcare travellers are increasingly seeking not only quality treatment, but also convenience, coordinated care, and a seamless overall experience,” said Hizami.
“Through MH Week in Guangzhou, our focus is to strengthen trusted referral ecosystems and build deeper engagement with stakeholders who directly influence healthcare travel decisions. Guangzhou is especially significant because of its strong outbound readiness, mature intermediary networks, and strategic position within the Greater Bay Area, one of China’s most economically influential regions.”
Through MH Week in Guangzhou, Malaysia Healthcare continued to strengthen its position not only as a destination for quality medical treatment, but as a trusted healthcare ecosystem capable of delivering coordinated, patient-centred care for international healthcare travellers. Participating healthcare institutions included Prince Court Medical Centre, KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital, KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital 1, and Cengild G.I. Medical Centre, reflecting Malaysia Healthcare’s diverse clinical strengths and commitment to delivering quality care across multiple specialities. Further market engagement initiatives under MYMT 2026 are expected to continue throughout the year as MHTC expands its outreach across priority international markets.
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
Head of Unit (HoU), PR and Media
Communications
Tel: +603 8776 6168
Email: rasydan.m@mhtc.org.my
--BERNAMA
Saturday, 23 May 2026
NMB’s Climate Resilient Smart Agriculture and Green Hydrogen Innovations Received Recognition at ITEX 2026
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| From Left to Right: Ts. Norhaizam Mustaffa from NMB, Prof. Dr. Ravigadevi Sambanthamurthi FRS, FASc, Ts. Nur Lili Suraya from NMB and Mohamad Hafiz Zolkipli, COO of NMB, receiving the Gold Award during Malam Budaya Cipta at ITEX 2026. |
The SmartLeaf: Leaf-Mimicking Crops Sensors for Smart and Precision Agriculture is a next-generation graphene-based leaf-wetness sensor developed by NMB in collaboration with Regaltech (M) Sdn Bhd and Xiamen University Malaysia. Designed for climate-resilient precision and smart agriculture, SmartLeaf addresses key farming challenges including water inefficiency, fertiliser overuse and crop disease risks. Using Laser-Induced Graphene (LIG) on a PDMS-coated biomimetic surface, the sensor detects moisture via capacitance changes and transmits real-time Internet of Things (IoT) data to support smarter irrigation and crop management.
SmartLeaf is low-cost, scalable and energy-efficient, making it suitable for applications such as horticulture, plant disease management, greenhouse automation, smart farming technologies, research and development, and urban green infrastructure. The technology is fully developed at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 and ready for commercialisation, with potential benefits including yield improvement of 10% to 25%, input cost reduction of up to 15%, and water savings of up to 30% while maintaining yield quality.
Also showcased was the Tandem Indoor Solar Cell with Photoelectrochemical Cell for Hydrogen Production, developed by NMB with PhlexCell Sdn Bhd and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, a compact green hydrogen generation module that integrates indoor solar light harvesting with photoelectrochemical water splitting. The system uses a novel photocatalyst to absorb light and support hydrogen production under both sunlight and low-light indoor conditions. The prototype is currently at TRL 4-5, with lab-scale validation demonstrating promising hydrogen-generation performance and operational stability.
The hydrogen production module demonstrates potential for future applications in portable clean energy systems, off-grid hydrogen generation, indoor low-light energy harvesting, energy storage, and research or educational demonstration kits. Its key advantages include self-powered operation, continuous hydrogen generation capability, high photocatalyst stability for long-term use, and a compact, scalable system design.
NMB Group Chief Executive Officer, Prof. (Adj.) Dr Rezal Khairi Ahmad said, “NMB’s annual participation in ITEX 2026 is a method to secure third party validation of the demand-driven technologies developed collaboratively with our industry and university partners. Our Venture Builder investment model actualizes our commitment to translate nanotechnology-based innovations into practical solutions that address real-world challenges. Both locally developed SmartLeaf and hydrogen production module powered by ambient light are designed for food security via sustainable agriculture and accessible clean energy aspirations thus supporting Malaysia’s transition towards a technology-driven climate resilient economy.”
The participation underscores NMB’s role in strengthening Malaysia’s green innovation ecosystem through strategic collaboration with industry and academia, while supporting national priorities in advanced materials, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and low-carbon technology development.
SOURCE: NanoMalaysia Berhad
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Email: corporateaffairs@nanomalaysia.com.my.
--BERNAMA
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