COVENTRY TO SHOWCASE LONGEVITY-LINKED ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES AT SFVEGAS 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- Coventry, the leader and creator of the secondary market for life insurance, announced it will attend SFVegas 2026 to engage with structured finance leaders as the institutional market for longevity-linked asset-backed securities (ABS) continues to mature.

Through its LILY platform, Coventry structures longevity-linked assets into investment-grade ABS designed to emphasise durable collateral and predictable cash flows that are generally uncorrelated with traditional markets.

Since April 2025, the LILY programme has completed US$750 million in asset-backed notes across three securitisations, establishing a repeatable, programmatic issuance platform for institutional scale. (US$1=RM3.88)

In a statement, Coventry Chief Executive Officer, Reid Buerger said the life insurance-backed asset class is entering a new phase of institutional maturity, and the company has established a programmatic securitisation platform grounded in disciplined underwriting, actuarial rigour, and consistent capital markets execution.

“Our objective is to establish a durable infrastructure that supports sustained issuances and long-term market development. SFVegas provides an important forum to engage with structured finance leaders as longevity-linked assets become an increasingly established component of institutional portfolios,” added Buerger.

Coventry’s presence at SFVegas reflects the continued development of longevity-linked ABS as a distinct segment within structured credit, bringing together scaled life insurance policy origination, actuarial analytics, and institutional-grade securitisation infrastructure to support LILY’s ongoing expansion.

As institutional demand for differentiated, uncorrelated assets continues to grow, Coventry will meet with capital providers, rating agencies, and distribution partners to discuss the expansion of the LILY platform and the broader evolution of longevity-linked ABS.

Guided by a longstanding commitment to consumer rights and market integrity, Coventry leverages its leadership position to raise industry standards, expand consumer choice, and responsibly develop institutional-quality life insurance-backed investment solutions.


-- BERNAMA

ADDRESS BEACH RESORT DUBAI UNVEILS JACUZZI POOL SUITES FOR ELEVATED BEACHFRONT LIVING

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- Address Beach Resort Dubai has introduced its new Jacuzzi Pool Suites, bringing private outdoor indulgence and elevated living to one of the city’s most iconic destinations.

The One Bedroom Jacuzzi Pool Sea View Suite with Balcony offers a private retreat for couples or friends seeking to disconnect from the city’s hustle, according to a statement.

Opening onto an expansive balcony with views of Ain Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and the Arabian Gulf, the suite features a private Jacuzzi-style plunge pool—perfect for slow mornings with coffee or evenings soaking as the city lights glow. Inside, the living space flows seamlessly to the outdoors, creating a stay that is relaxed, intimate, and quietly elevated.

For families or friends travelling together, the Two Bedroom Jacuzzi Pool Sea View Suite with Balcony provides space to connect without compromising privacy. Featuring two en-suite bedrooms anchored by a central living area, the suite accommodates shared moments—from relaxed breakfasts indoors to sunlit afternoons on the terrace.

The private Jacuzzi-style pool serves as the natural gathering point, framed by uninterrupted views of Bluewaters Island and the Arabian Gulf, while the terrace becomes an idyllic setting for unhurried evenings as daylight fades.

Beyond the new suites, Address Beach Resort Dubai boasts the world’s highest outdoor infinity pool, Dubai’s highest spa, and a curated collection of lifestyle-driven dining experiences, delivering an experience-led approach to luxury.

With the introduction of the new Jacuzzi Pool Suites, the resort further enhances its accommodation portfolio with spaces designed not just to stay in but to truly experience, unwind, and cherish every moment.

-- BERNAMA

PANTHEON PROMOTES FOUR NEW PARTNERS, STRENGTHENS GLOBAL LEADERSHIP TEAM

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- Pantheon, a global private markets investor, has announced the promotion of four new Partners, recognising their contributions across key regions and client segments and supporting the firm’s continued growth and leadership in private markets.

“Pantheon’s leadership position in pioneering solutions to meet our clients’ evolving needs is built on the strength of our global team. We are pleased to recognise the contributions of our new Partners in key regions such as Asia and Latin America, and channels such as private wealth,” said Pantheon Chief Executive Officer, Kathryn Leaf.

According to Pantheon in a statement, the new Partner promotions bolster senior leadership in the Investment and Client Solutions Teams.

Scott Hong was promoted to Partner in the Client Solutions Team, serving as Head of South Korea and leading Pantheon’s client engagement in the region. Based in Singapore, Victor Mayer of the Client Solutions Team and Kunal Sood, of the Asia Investment Team, were also promoted, along with Ana Zarruk, who leads client development and relations in Latin America was promoted to Partner in the Client Solutions Team.

In addition, 11 professionals received promotions to Managing Director across geographies and functions, further strengthening Pantheon’s next-generation leadership.

The Managing Directors include Carlos Arias (Client Solutions, Geneva); Christopher Banks (Legal & Compliance, New York); Thomas Flückiger (Risk, London); Jamie Hayford (Private Equity, London); Austin Kahler (Client Solutions, New York); Maeve Kelly (Legal & Compliance, Dublin); and Welwin Lobo (Infrastructure, London).

Pantheon has been at the forefront of private market investing for more than 40 years, providing innovative solutions across the full investment lifecycle and partnering with institutional investors worldwide.

These leadership promotions reinforce the firm’s commitment to excellence in investment performance, client engagement, and global growth.

-- BERNAMA

Cape EMS Unveils ‘CEB 2.0’ Roadmap to Drive High-Value Tech and Infrastructure Growth

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- Cape EMS Berhad (“Cape EMS” or “the Group”) has unveiled its strategic transformation roadmap, dubbed “CEB 2.0,” aimed at repositioning the Group from a traditional electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider into a high-value technology and infrastructure partner.

The strategic pivot is designed to build long-term earnings resilience and restore market confidence by moving beyond conventional “box-build” assembly into engineering-led, infrastructure-linked, and solution-based offerings.

Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, Christina Tee Kim Chin, stated that the shift represents a fundamental upgrade in the Group’s business model.

“Cape 1.0 was about scale. CEB 2.0 is about value,” she said. “We are transitioning from hardware-centric manufacturing towards engineering integration, intelligent manufacturing networks, and clean-energy infrastructure.”

Four Strategic Pillars The transformation is anchored on four key business pillars: EMS, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Wireless IoT, and Intelligent Manufacturing Network (IMN).

Central to this strategy is the IMN, driven by the Group’s US-based subsidiary iConn Inc. The division operates a ‘virtual plant’ model that facilitates distributed, AI-optimised production across multiple geographies. This approach allows Cape EMS to mitigate tariff exposure, adapt to geopolitical shifts, and support multinational customers pursuing “China+1” supply-chain diversification strategies.

Capitalising on Johor’s Data Centre Boom Concurrently, the Group is expanding into the BESS and renewable energy infrastructure space through its subsidiary, Cape Renewables, in partnership with Shanghai Sermatec Energy Technology Co. Ltd.

The initiative involves the localisation of BESS assembly and lifecycle support in Johor, aligning with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). This positions Cape EMS to serve the rising demand from data centres and industrial operators seeking energy reliability.

Tee noted that Johor’s emergence as the nation’s primary data centre hub, coupled with the momentum of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), provides significant strategic tailwinds.

“Cape EMS is positioning itself as a critical infrastructure partner supporting energy resilience, smart mobility, and digital infrastructure operations within this high-growth corridor,” she added.

To support this ecosystem, the Group has entered into a strategic collaboration with Engytech Engineering Services to build digital infrastructure operation and maintenance capabilities. Plans are also underway to establish a Data Centre Academy in Johor to address talent shortages in mission-critical facilities, supporting the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 goals.

Focus on Quality Growth From a capital markets perspective, the Board has outlined a priority over the next 12 to 24 months to demonstrate consistent profitability and disciplined execution. The Group views its return to profitability in the first quarter of FY2026 as a baseline for sustainable performance.

“We are focused on sustainable margin improvement, prudent capital deployment, and transparent engagement with investors. We are not chasing growth for growth’s sake — we are pursuing quality growth,” Tee emphasised.

By operating at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and digital infrastructure, Cape EMS aims to build a more resilient, infrastructure-linked earnings profile moving forward.

SOURCE : Aegis Communication

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Jason Fong
Tel: +6012-8631134
Email: jason@aegiscomm.com.my

--BERNAMA

PETRONAS AND SABAH STATE GOVERNMENT HONOUR LOCAL VENDORS, STRENGTHENING OGSE GROWTH

 

Rashidah Alias, PETRONAS Vice President of Group Procurement (third from left) presenting the Sabah Vendor Development Programme Award to one of the recipients, witnessed by Datuk Sr. Mohd Ishak Datuk Ayub, Assistant Sabah Finance Minister II (second from right) and  Datuk Ir Bacho Pilong, PETRONAS Senior Vice President of Malaysia Petroleum Management (right)

KOTA KINABALU, Feb 13 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS and the Sabah State Government yesterday accorded recognition to Sabah-based oil and gas services and equipment (OGSE) vendors for their achievements in fostering a sustainable and competitive local ecosystem.
 

To date, a total of 98 Sabah-based OGSE vendors have been recognised for their capabilities and track record in securing contracts. This reflects a steady increase since the signing of the Sabah Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) in 2021, with 47 vendors receiving recognition for the first time in 2025, signalling the growing depth and maturity of local industry capabilities. This progress is further reflected in the growth of contracts secured by Sabah vendors, which rose from 133 in 2021 to 499 in 2025.
 

Held at the Sabah International Convention Centre, the recognition ceremony was witnessed by Assistant Sabah Finance Minister II Datuk Sr Mohd Ishak Datuk Ayub, representing Deputy Chief Minister II and Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, and presented by PETRONAS Vice President of Group Procurement, Rashidah Alias. Also present was PETRONAS Senior Vice President of Malaysia Petroleum Management, Datuk Ir Bacho Pilong.
 

In his address, Datuk Ir Bacho highlighted the evolving dynamics of the global energy landscape and the continued importance of the OGSE sector to Malaysia’s economy. He said, “As we navigate rapid change in the global energy landscape, the OGSE sector remains a vital pillar of Malaysia’s economy. With the support and ongoing collaboration, with the Sabah State, we can build a resilient OGSE supply chain, and position Sabah as the preferred investment destination.”
 

Among the recognised vendors are those awarded medium-to-complex scope contracts, including Gas Turbine Maintenance, Production Support Vessel (PSV) services for deepwater drilling, Wellhead Maintenance, Terminal Turnaround, Maintenance and Modification (TTAMM) and Marine Operations. The vendors have also strengthened industry collaboration through Joint Venture (JV) contracts for Offshore Maintenance, Construction, and Modification (MCM) and Hook-Up (HUC) scopes, reflecting continued progress in technical capability and service expansion within Sabah’s oil and gas sector.
 

Meanwhile, two Sabah-based companies were introduced under the Vendor Development Programme (VDP): Seascape Synergy Services Sdn Bhd for Life Raft and Lifeboat Maintenance, and GMB Dynamic Sdn Bhd for Fire Truck Maintenance Services. These new entrants reflect the strengthening capabilities of Sabah’s OGSE sector, as more local companies meet higher standards of safety, quality, and operational excellence.
 

PETRONAS and the Sabah State Government extend their appreciation to all partners, associations and vendors whose continued commitment contributes to the strengthening of Sabah’s OGSE ecosystem. Both parties remain committed to fostering a sustainable, inclusive and competitive industry for the future.

 

Issued by:

 

Channels and Media Relations

Group Strategic Relations & Communications

PETRONAS

 

SOURCE: PETRONAS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Name: Neil Brian Joseph

Email: neilbrian.joseph@petronas.com.my

Executive (Media Communications - Sabah & Labuan)

Media Management

--BERNAMA

HIAM Stakeholder Engagement Workshop Marks New Chapter for Malaysia’s Hydrogen Industry

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Hydrogen Industry Alliance (MHIA), established by NMB (NanoMalaysia Berhad) under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), has undergone a strategic rebranding and is now known as the Hydrogen Industry Alliance Malaysia (HIAM) following its official registration with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) on 25 December 2025. The rebranding was formally unveiled during the HIAM Stakeholder Engagement Workshop 2026 held on 4 February 2026, which also saw the successful election of the alliance’s leadership committee.

Since its establishment, HIAM has played a key role in bringing together stakeholders across Malaysia’s hydrogen value chain to support the development of a coordinated, commercially driven hydrogen ecosystem. NMB has supported this effort by convening industry players, engaging regulators, and contributing to discussions on governance and hydrogen standards aligned with global best practices while addressing local operating conditions. To date, HIAM has registered 40 members since its inception in 2023 from various industry players.
 
The HIAM Stakeholder Engagement Workshop 1/2026 marked a key milestone with the announcement of the newly elected HIAM committee members who will lead the alliance’s strategic direction. NMB has been appointed Chairman, supported by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation – Energy (SEDC-E) as President. The committee also includes PETRONAS Berhad overseeing Policy, Hydrexia Sdn. Bhd. leading Technical matters, Ace Gases Sdn. Bhd. managing Commercial affairs, and HyPERtech Industries Sdn. Bhd. heading Management Planning. This leadership line-up reflects a strong, united industry commitment to advancing Malaysia’s hydrogen ecosystem and strengthening national capabilities.
 
During the workshop, HIAM also highlighted several recent developments that strengthened Malaysia’s positioning within the regional and global hydrogen landscape. These included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korea Hydrogen Alliance (H2Korea) on 19th October 2025. as well as HIAM’s inclusion, representing Malaysia as a member of the Global Hydrogen Industrial Association Alliance (GHIAA). This milestone was formalised during GHIAA’s 8th Annual General Meeting held in South Korea on 5th December 2025, alongside the induction of other member countries such as Peru, South Africa and India.  Collectively, these global engagements further enhance Malaysia’s international collaboration and strategic positioning in the hydrogen ecosystem.
 
NMB's Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rezal Khairi Ahmad, said: "These milestones reflect HIAM’s growing role as a unified industry platform supporting policy implementation, technology deployment, investment facilitation and talent development across the hydrogen value chain. With the newly elected committee in place, we are confident in HIAM’s ability to drive meaningful collaboration and look forward to working closely with industry partners to advance Malaysia’s hydrogen ambitions.”
 
HIAM reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with government agencies, industry players, research institutions and international partners to accelerate the development of Malaysia’s hydrogen economy. Through continued stakeholder collaboration, HIAM aims to contribute to national clean energy goals, economic resilience and long-term sustainability, in alignment with MOSTI’s Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR), which guides Malaysia’s hydrogen development through 2050.

Source: NanoMalaysia Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Corporate Affairs of NanoMalaysia Berhad
Email: corporateaffairs@nanomalaysia.com.my

--BERNAMA

REGASK UNVEILS AI-ASSISTED LABEL COMPLIANCE REVIEW FOR FASTER PRODUCT LAUNCHES

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- RegASK, an agentic artificial intelligence (AI) platform, has unveiled its AI-Assisted Label Compliance Review, a transformative capability that delivers comprehensive label compliance checks in seconds.

Label compliance checks, traditionally one of the most time-consuming and risk-prone steps in product commercialisation, can now be performed instantly, enabling faster product launches without compromising regulatory rigour.

RegASK Chief Product & Technology Officer, Amenallah Reghimi said its AI-Assisted Label Review and global regulatory database redefined operational excellence in compliance.

“Teams can now work with unprecedented speed, visibility, and confidence in their everyday compliance workflows,” said Reghimi.

With the new capability, teams can upload packaging artwork and validate it against regulations across key global markets, including the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom and China.

According to a statement, the system delivers clear compliance assessments with actionable recommendations and pinpoints issues directly on the label using an interactive viewer, with every finding fully traceable through direct hyperlinks to the underlying source regulations.

The launch is supported by enhancements to RegASK’s core infrastructure, including a global regulatory database offering a 360-degree, chronological view of each regulation’s lifecycle. Teams can track changes from initial consultation to amendments and enforcement, ensuring compliance checks are always current.

By compressing review timelines, reducing rework, and eliminating avoidable delays, RegASK’s AI-Assisted Label Compliance Review fundamentally changes how organisations approach product launches, helping teams operate with regulatory compliance.

-- BERNAMA