Tax Matters – Non-reviewable contracts: Relief or missed opportunity from SST?

IT IS very common for businesses to sign long-term contracts that will go beyond one year. At the time of signing these contracts, the parties to the contracts would not have anticipated the expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST) and therefore not built in the necessary clauses to apply the additional taxes. When… Continue reading Tax Matters – Non-reviewable contracts: Relief or missed opportunity from SST?
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TikTok Shop emerging as growth driver for Malaysian SMEs through ‘shoppertainment’

PETALING JAYA: TikTok Shop is emerging as the growth driver for Malaysian small and medium enterprises through its social media engagement and e-commerce combination known as “shoppertainment”. For local creators interviewed by SunBiz, the platform has become a game changer. Pinn Yang, for example, said TikTok Shop finally bridged the gap between content discovery and… Continue reading TikTok Shop emerging as growth driver for Malaysian SMEs through ‘shoppertainment’
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Malaysia’s fiscal position improving as consolidation efforts start to pay off: Economist

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s fiscal consolidation efforts are beginning to bear fruit, with measures to narrow the deficit and reduce government debt gaining traction despite criticism, signalling a positive outlook for the country’s sovereign credit ratings. “Our foreign reserves have risen to US$119.9 billion (RM507 billion) from US$115.5 billion in the first half of 2025, while… Continue reading Malaysia’s fiscal position improving as consolidation efforts start to pay off: Economist
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Agrobank launches RM50m AgroPintar to support microentrepreneurs

PETALING JAYA: Agrobank has launched the Agro Pintar Niaga Programme (AgroPintar), an initiative designed to empower microentrepreneurs through a combination of financing, i-Tekad grant matching and structured entrepreneurship training to help them manage and grow their businesses sustainably. Group president/CEO Tengku Datuk Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin said, “AgroPintar is a holistic programme that offers… Continue reading Agrobank launches RM50m AgroPintar to support microentrepreneurs
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DayOne Data Centers prioritises efficient use of power and water

JOHOR BAHRU: Global pioneer in digital infrastructure platform, DayOne Data Centers (DayOne) is focusing on optimising its energy and water consumption to support Malaysia’s sustainability goals while maintaining high-performance operations as global demand for digital infrastructure surges. DayOne Data Centers Malaysia Sdn Bhd general manager Jimmy Yan said data centres inherently consume a significant amount… Continue reading DayOne Data Centers prioritises efficient use of power and water
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Malaysia Aviation Group exercises purchase rights for 20 additional A330neo aircraft

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, has exercised its purchase rights for 20 additional A330neo aircraft through a direct order with Airbus – reaffirming its commitment to a long-term strategy for fleet renewal and network development. With this latest acquisition, Malaysia Airlines is set to become one… Continue reading Malaysia Aviation Group exercises purchase rights for 20 additional A330neo aircraft
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AirAsia signs US$12.25 billion deal for 50 A321XLRs with rights for 20 more

PETALING JAYA: AirAsia Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Capital A Bhd, has signed a landmark agreement with Airbus valued at US$12.25 billion (RM51.75 billion) for 50 A321XLRs with rights for 20 more. With the agreement, the airline is taking a major step towards becoming the world’s first low-cost narrow-body network carrier, anchored by its… Continue reading AirAsia signs US$12.25 billion deal for 50 A321XLRs with rights for 20 more
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Proton targets over 2,000 monthly sales for new X50 SUV

SHAH ALAM: Proton Holdings Bhd aims to sell at least “two thousand plus” units of the “all-new” Proton X50 per month when it launches. Deputy chief executive officer of Proton Edar, Zhang Qiang, said that with the newly upgraded features, the new Proton X50 model would continue to be the nation’s best-selling B-segment SUV. “We… Continue reading Proton targets over 2,000 monthly sales for new X50 SUV

Alpha International sets new global benchmarks in workplace well-being

KUALA LUMPUR: Alpha International Training and Consultancy is pioneering a transformative approach to workplace well-being – one that sets new global benchmarks, with the company at the forefront of transforming employee health and productivity, both in Malaysia and internationally. With United Nations approval, the Certified Fatigue and Fitness Accredited Programme, led by Alpha International CEO… Continue reading Alpha International sets new global benchmarks in workplace well-being
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Amberwood Resort Residences – new lifestyle address in Johor

JOHOR BAHRU: A new lifestyle destination has arrived in Johor with the launch of Amberwood Resort Residences, an exclusive development born from a strategic collaboration between PIJ Property Development Sdn Bhd (PIJ Property) and Fiamma Holdings Bhd (Fiamma), with Chin Hin Group Property Bhd (CHGP) appointed as the project manager. This partnership brings together local… Continue reading Amberwood Resort Residences – new lifestyle address in Johor
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SkyWorld scores third win at Fiabci global awards

KUALA LUMPUR: For the third year in a row, SkyWorld Development Bhd has received global recognition at the Fiabci World Prix d’Excellence Awards 2025, this time earning the World Silver Award in the Residential High Rise category for its parkfront development SkyLuxe On The Park Residences in Bukit Jalil. The company previously secured Gold Awards… Continue reading SkyWorld scores third win at Fiabci global awards
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OPEC+ likely to approve 411,000 bpd oil output hike for August

LONDON: Eight OPEC+ countries are likely to make another accelerated oil output increase for August at a meeting on Saturday, sources from the producer group told Reuters, as they seek to regain market share. The group, which includes Saudi Arabia, Russia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Kazakhstan and Algeria, is expected to agree to an… Continue reading OPEC+ likely to approve 411,000 bpd oil output hike for August

Foreign phone sales in China drop 9.7% as Apple faces local competition

BEIJING: Sales of foreign-branded mobile phones in China, including those of Apple Inc, fell 9.7% year-on-year in May, according to data released by a government-affiliated research company on Friday. Calculations based on the data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) showed that May shipments of foreign-branded phones in China fell to… Continue reading Foreign phone sales in China drop 9.7% as Apple faces local competition

French spirits shares stabilise as China duties may not apply to all

SHARES of French spirits makers regained some ground on Friday after falling in early trading, as China spared major cognac producers from new duties on EU brandy, provided they sell at a minimum price. Pernod Ricard’s shares were down 0.5% while Remy Cointreau was 0.3% lower by 1130 GMT, after falling as much as 4.4%… Continue reading French spirits shares stabilise as China duties may not apply to all

Tetra Pak sees strong growth potential beyond daily sector

HO CHI MINH CITY: Tetra Pak, a Swedish-Swiss multinational food processing and packaging solutions company, sees strong growth potential in Malaysia and across Asia-Pacific beyond the milk category, said its president and CEO Adolfo Orive. He highlighted growing consumer demand for a variety of beverages such as plant-based, fruit juices, coffee, iced tea, protein-enriched, oatmeal… Continue reading Tetra Pak sees strong growth potential beyond daily sector
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Global food prices rise in June due to meat and dairy costs

PARIS: Global food commodity prices edged higher in June, supported by higher meat, vegetable oil and dairy prices, the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization said on Friday. The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in a basket of internationally traded food commodities, averaged 128.0 points in June, up 0.5% from May. The… Continue reading Global food prices rise in June due to meat and dairy costs

Air France-KLM to buy major stake in SAS

PARIS: Air France-KLM plans to increase its stake in Scandinavian airline SAS to 60.5%, the latest step towards consolidating Europe’s fragmented airline sector as carriers seek to strengthen their position against rivals. The French airline group said yesterday it intended to increase its stake from 19.9% currently by acquiring the stakes held by top shareholder… Continue reading Air France-KLM to buy major stake in SAS
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China urges caution, speed on driver-assist tech

BEIJING: China’s automakers are outpacing foreign rivals in their push for assisted-driving technology, eager to woo motorists hungry for rapid innovation. Yet, Beijing has a nuanced message for its rising stars: move fast – but be careful. Regulators this week have been finalising new safety rules for driver-assistance systems as Beijing sharpens scrutiny of the… Continue reading China urges caution, speed on driver-assist tech
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Malaysian-owned Zchwantech Titan showcases national DI platform to Timor-Leste government

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian-owned technology firm, Zchwantech Titan Lda, has successfully conducted a high-level technology showcase for the Government of Timor-Leste, presenting its flagship National Digital Identity platform as part of the country’s broader vision to modernise public services and accelerate digital governance. The strategic engagement took place during an official working visit by senior representatives… Continue reading Malaysian-owned Zchwantech Titan showcases national DI platform to Timor-Leste government
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Ringgit opens marginally higher vs US dollar

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened marginally higher against the US dollar amidst improving United States (US) economic data, which supported the greenback, said an analyst. At 8 am, the local note rose to 4.2125/2280 against the greenback, from Thursday’s close of 4.2195/2255. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the… Continue reading Ringgit opens marginally higher vs US dollar

Pos Malaysia’s fulfilment arm aims to stamp its mark across Southeast Asia

KUALA LUMPUR: Pos Malaysia Bhd’s integrated fulfilment and e-commerce logistics service, Pos Fulfill, is looking towards expanding its footprint across Southeast Asia, as it is uniquely positioned to capitalise on both regional collaboration and local expertise. The group’s established postal network throughout the region – coupled with Malaysia’s current Asean Chair status within the bloc’s… Continue reading Pos Malaysia’s fulfilment arm aims to stamp its mark across Southeast Asia
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Subsidy reform must be done gradually with inclusion as core principle: Expert

KUALA LUMPUR: Subsidy reform is often considered a necessity, especially as governments grapple with fiscal constraints. however, the way subsidies are targeted can have serious implications for the poor. Dr Muhammed Abdul Khalid, research fellow at Institute of Malaysian and International Studies (Ikmas), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. said targeted subsidies frequently fail to reach the most… Continue reading Subsidy reform must be done gradually with inclusion as core principle: Expert
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UOB, FMM, SMF in pact to spur cross-border manufacturing projects, investments

PETALING JAYA: In a move to bolster regional economic integration and facilitate foreign direct investment (FDI) flows, UOB signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM) and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) at the Asean Conference in Singapore today. The strategic partnership aims to strengthen the Malaysia-Singapore manufacturing corridor… Continue reading UOB, FMM, SMF in pact to spur cross-border manufacturing projects, investments
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National AI regulatory framework expected to be tabled by second half of next year: Gobind

KUALA LUMPUR: The national AI regulatory framework is expected to be tabled by the second half of next year, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. He said Malaysia needs AI governance, but it has not yet been decided if this will involve new legislation, regulations, or just standards. “I hope to get something tabled. If… Continue reading National AI regulatory framework expected to be tabled by second half of next year: Gobind
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Kelington collaborates with Petronas CCS Solutions to explore carbon capture technologies

KUALA LUMPUR: Integrated engineering solutions provider, Kelington Group Berhad, via its subsidiary, Ace Gases Marketing Sdn Bhd has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Petronas CCS Solutions Sdn Bhd (PCCSS). The collaboration will explore joint value propositions through a feasibility study leveraging Ace Gases’ expertise in carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) logistics and facility operations. This… Continue reading Kelington collaborates with Petronas CCS Solutions to explore carbon capture technologies
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​GFM Services acquires 60% of Shapadu Energy

KUALA LUMPUR: Integrated facilities management (IFM) services provider GFM Services Bhd signed a conditional share sale agreement with Shapadu Corporation Sdn Bhd to acquire a 60% equity interest in Shapadu Energy Sdn Bhd for RM30 million. The acquisition follows the signing of the heads of agreement by both parties in December 2024. GFM Services group… Continue reading ​GFM Services acquires 60% of Shapadu Energy
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M’sian firms bag RM450m potential digital exports to Indonesia

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) continues to drive the nation’s digital economy across Asean, strengthening regional cooperation and market access for Malaysian companies. The agency’s latest initiative under the DEX CONNEX Indonesia programme brought 83 Malaysian tech companies into the Indonesian market, which generated more than RM450 million in digital export opportunities. DEX… Continue reading M’sian firms bag RM450m potential digital exports to Indonesia
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Ringgit rises as traders turn cautious ahead of US tariff move

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on Thursday, rebounding from a weaker close the day before, as traders turned cautious and pared greenback holdings ahead of the July 9 expiry of the United States’ 90-day tariff pause, an analyst said. At 8 am, the local note stood at 4.2205/2295 against the… Continue reading Ringgit rises as traders turn cautious ahead of US tariff move

Ringgit rises as traders turn cautious ahead of US tariff move

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on Thursday, rebounding from a weaker close the day before, as traders turned cautious and pared greenback holdings ahead of the July 9 expiry of the United States’ 90-day tariff pause, an analyst said. At 8 am, the local note stood at 4.2205/2295 against the… Continue reading Ringgit rises as traders turn cautious ahead of US tariff move
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ASM Automation makes ACE Market debut, shares open unchanged from IPO price

KUALA LUMPUR: ASM Automation Group Bhd, a home-grown automation machinery solutions provider, marked a key milestone today with its listing on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia. The company’s shares opened at 17 sen each, matching the initial public offering (IPO) price. The counter closed at 16.5 sen, 0.5 sen or 2.9% below the offer… Continue reading ASM Automation makes ACE Market debut, shares open unchanged from IPO price
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Diversification ensures Malaysia’s economy remains resilient: Miti official

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia remains on solid footing due to its inclusive and long-term economic strategy despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East raising concerns over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions to global energy supply. The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry’s bilateral economic and trade relations division director, Raveendran Nair, said Malaysia’s… Continue reading Diversification ensures Malaysia’s economy remains resilient: Miti official
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Prasarana launches digital platform to help vendors implement ESG practices

PETALING JAYA: Prasarana Malaysia Bhd has launched digital platform Vendor ESG Hub to help nearly 5,000 registered vendors, including SMEs, enhance their capacity to implement sustainable business practices. Prasarana Group president and CEO Mohd Azharuddin Mat Sah said the initiative was a strategic move to strengthen the vendor ecosystem in Prasarana’s supply chain to ensure… Continue reading Prasarana launches digital platform to help vendors implement ESG practices
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GFM to acquire 60%-equity stake in Shapadu Energy for RM30m, strengthening O&G presence

KUALA LUMPUR: Integrated facilities management (IFM) services provider GFM Services Bhd signed a conditional share sale agreement with Shapadu Corporation Sdn Bhd to acquire a 60% equity interest in Shapadu Energy Sdn Bhd for RM30 million. The acquisition follows the signing of the heads of agreement by both parties in December 2024. GFM Services group… Continue reading GFM to acquire 60%-equity stake in Shapadu Energy for RM30m, strengthening O&G presence
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MyFashionChamber to put Malaysia on global map

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s fashion industry enters a bold new era with the launch of the International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (MyFashionChamber) – a national platform uniting designers, educators, artisans, and innovators under one mission: to connect creativity with commerce and elevate Malaysia’s global fashion standing. Malaysia’s textile and apparel exports continue to show resilience, with knitted… Continue reading MyFashionChamber to put Malaysia on global map
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Johor Corp posts strong revenue, earnings growth

KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Corporation (JCorp) and its group of companies announced consolidated financial results for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2024 (FY24), recording revenue of RM6.96 billion, a 12% increase from RM6.2 billion in FY23. In a statement yesterday, JCorp said the performance reflects continued momentum under the JCorp 3.0 Reinvention Plan, which is… Continue reading Johor Corp posts strong revenue, earnings growth
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Johor-Singapore SEZ to boost state GDP share above 12% by 2030

KUALA LUMPUR: The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is expected to propel Johor’s share of national gross domestic product (GDP) to exceed 12 per cent by 2023, should their investments materialise according to plan, said CIMB Investment Bank Bhd In a note, the investment bank said JS-SEZ could contribute RM117.1 billion to the country’s GDP… Continue reading Johor-Singapore SEZ to boost state GDP share above 12% by 2030

Supratechnic appointed as exclusive distributor for Hidea outboard motors in Malaysia, Singapore

KUALA LUMPUR: Supratechnic (M) Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of Singapore mainboard-listed USP Group Ltd, and Malaysia’s distributor of marine engines, hardware, and related maritime services, signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Hangzhou Hidea Power Machinery Co Ltd, China’s leading outboard motor manufacturer. Effective July 1, 2025, the agreement grants Supratechnic sole distribution rights… Continue reading Supratechnic appointed as exclusive distributor for Hidea outboard motors in Malaysia, Singapore
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Avangaad locks in RM66.8m in port services portfolio with Northport

Avangaad has consistently demonstrated its operational excellence and reliability in managing and operating critical marine assets for Northport. KUALA LUMPUR: Avangaad Bhd, a Bursa Malaysia main market-listed marine transportation and offshore storage specialist, and Libra Perfex Precision Sdn Bhd secured a new contract from Northport (Malaysia) Bhd for RM66.8 million. Extending beyond its stable tenure-based… Continue reading Avangaad locks in RM66.8m in port services portfolio with Northport
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Del Monte Foods files for US bankruptcy, seeks buyer amid restructuring

DEL MONTE FOODS kicked off efforts to pursue a sale as it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in the United States on Tuesday under an agreement with certain key lenders, the company said in a statement. The company has secured $912.5 million in financing to support itself through the proceedings, it said, adding that… Continue reading Del Monte Foods files for US bankruptcy, seeks buyer amid restructuring
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Del Monte Foods files for US bankruptcy, seeks buyer amid restructuring

DEL MONTE FOODS kicked off efforts to pursue a sale as it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in the United States on Tuesday under an agreement with certain key lenders, the company said in a statement. The company has secured $912.5 million in financing to support itself through the proceedings, it said, adding that… Continue reading Del Monte Foods files for US bankruptcy, seeks buyer amid restructuring

Ringgit gains as US dollar weakens amid fiscal concerns

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit strengthened against the US dollar in early trading on Wednesday, benefiting from ongoing weakness in the greenback due to fiscal uncertainties and tariff risks in the United States. At 8 am, the local currency traded at 4.1870/2065 against the US dollar, up from Tuesday’s close of 4.1995/2005. The US Dollar Index… Continue reading Ringgit gains as US dollar weakens amid fiscal concerns
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Ringgit gains as US dollar weakens amid fiscal concerns

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit strengthened against the US dollar in early trading on Wednesday, benefiting from ongoing weakness in the greenback due to fiscal uncertainties and tariff risks in the United States. At 8 am, the local currency traded at 4.1870/2065 against the US dollar, up from Tuesday’s close of 4.1995/2005. The US Dollar Index… Continue reading Ringgit gains as US dollar weakens amid fiscal concerns

India seeks stronger semiconductor and digital economy ties with Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: India is keen to deepen its already robust business linkages with Malaysia in the fast-growing semiconductor industry and digital economy. India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, B N Reddy, said Malaysia has long been recognised as a leader in the semiconductor sector. Besides this, Malaysia had expressed keen interest in partnering with India in… Continue reading India seeks stronger semiconductor and digital economy ties with Malaysia
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India seeks stronger semiconductor and digital economy ties with Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: India is keen to deepen its already robust business linkages with Malaysia in the fast-growing semiconductor industry and digital economy. India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, B N Reddy, said Malaysia has long been recognised as a leader in the semiconductor sector. Besides this, Malaysia had expressed keen interest in partnering with India in… Continue reading India seeks stronger semiconductor and digital economy ties with Malaysia

Chile approves faster permitting for mining and energy projects

SANTIAGO: Chile’s congress approved long-awaited legislation to speed up the permitting process for investment projects in the country on Tuesday. The law was a key demand from the country’s mining industry as well as renewable energy companies and others who said the lengthy permitting process was holding back investment. Chile is the world’s largest copper… Continue reading Chile approves faster permitting for mining and energy projects

Chile approves faster permitting for mining and energy projects

SANTIAGO: Chile’s congress approved long-awaited legislation to speed up the permitting process for investment projects in the country on Tuesday. The law was a key demand from the country’s mining industry as well as renewable energy companies and others who said the lengthy permitting process was holding back investment. Chile is the world’s largest copper… Continue reading Chile approves faster permitting for mining and energy projects