DestinaAsia

Category: ACTIVITY

  • Mastercard and CrescentRating: Muslim Women Account for Nearly Half of Global Muslim Travel

    Mastercard, in collaboration with CrescentRating, has released two new reports titled Halal Travel Trends 2026 and Muslim Women in Travel 2026, which explore how Muslim travel continues to evolve amid rising demand for more inclusive, trusted and purpose-driven travel experiences. The reports highlight Muslim travel as an increasingly important global growth segment, with Halal Travel Trends 2026 estimating international Muslim visitor arrivals at 186 million in 2025 and projecting this figure to reach 245 million by 2030. Meanwhile, Muslim Women in Travel 2026 reports that Muslim women accounted for 90 million international arrivals in 2025, representing 48% of global Muslim visitor arrivals, up from 63 million and 45% in 2019.

    The findings also show that foundational Muslim-friendly tourism services, particularly halal food and prayer facilities, have become more widely available in recent years, while traveller expectations have expanded to include safety, digital confidence and faith-aligned assurance as part of a new global standard. At the centre of both reports is CrescentRating’s RIDA framework (Responsible, Immersive, Digital and Assured), which provides a practical roadmap for destinations, tourism boards and businesses to better serve Muslim travellers.

    Asia remains a key driver of global Muslim travel growth. Halal Travel Trends 2026 finds that the region attracted nearly 120 million Muslim visitors in 2024, accounting for 65% of the world’s 176 million Muslim travellers. This strength is driven by strong connectivity, cultural depth, established halal infrastructure and close proximity between major source and destination markets. Within ASEAN, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei are among the preferred destinations for Muslim women travellers, while Southeast Asia also represents 5.8 million Muslim women travellers as a source region. The region’s well-established halal ecosystems, family-friendly offerings, regional connectivity and increasing investment in inclusive tourism provide a strong foundation to serve this fast-growing market.

    Beyond Muslim-majority destinations, the reports also highlight growing opportunities for destinations that improve the visibility and reliability of Muslim-friendly offerings, helping to convert interest into confirmed bookings while strengthening traveller confidence.

    Muslim Women in Travel 2026 further highlights the growing influence of Muslim women as a key segment shaping the future of inclusive tourism. Muslim women are increasingly influencing where, how and why travel is planned, whether for family holidays, solo journeys, religious travel, business trips or women-led group experiences. Safety and trust remain top priorities, with 60% of respondents identifying general safety and comfort as the most important destination factors, followed by Muslim-friendliness at 30%. Travellers also seek confidence in accessing halal food, locating prayer facilities, maintaining modesty, moving safely across destinations and practising their faith without discrimination or judgement.

    Digital platforms are also playing an increasingly influential role in travel decision-making, with 68% of respondents stating that social media influences their travel choices. Instagram remains the most used platform, followed by YouTube and TikTok, while artificial intelligence tools are emerging as an additional layer of travel assurance, helping travellers research destinations, compare options, plan itineraries, identify halal dining and assess safety considerations.

    “Muslim travel is entering a more sophisticated phase, where confidence, inclusion and purpose are becoming as important as access and convenience,” said Aisha Islam, Senior Vice President, Customer Solutions Center, Southeast Asia at Mastercard. “Through the RIDA framework, destinations and businesses have a practical way to view the full traveller journey, from trusted digital information and secure payments to meaningful experiences that respect faith, culture, safety and personal values.”

    Both reports point to a clear shift from availability to assurance, where destinations that make Muslim-friendly services more visible, verifiable and consistent are better positioned to convert demand into actual travel and build long-term loyalty. The RIDA framework supports this transition through four pillars: Responsible, which promotes community-led tourism, environmental stewardship and regenerative practices; Immersive, which focuses on deeper cultural, heritage and local experiences beyond sightseeing; Digital, which leverages technology, AI and secure payments to reduce friction and enhance confidence; and Assured, which builds trust through verified halal services, safety standards, inclusive infrastructure and consistent quality across all touchpoints.

    “For destinations, the opportunity is to move from availability to assurance,” said Raudha Zaini, Director of Operations, CrescentRating. “Muslim travellers are looking for experiences that are meaningful, inclusive and easy to trust. Destinations that clearly communicate their readiness and consistently deliver across the journey will be best positioned to build long-term loyalty.”

    As Muslim travel continues to expand across regions and traveller segments, the reports highlight the importance of a more integrated approach to tourism development. By embedding responsible practices, authentic experiences, digital confidence and trusted faith-aligned services into destination planning, the industry can unlock stronger participation, deeper loyalty and more sustainable long-term growth.

  • First Malaysian to Lead Global Legal Network LAWorld

    First Malaysian to Lead Global Legal Network LAWorld

    Dato’ Mohamed Ridza Abdulla, Managing Partner of Malaysian law firm Mohamed Ridza & Co, has been appointed as the Global Chair of LAWorld, an international network of independent law firms with representation across major commercial centres worldwide. This elected appointment marks the first time a Malaysian has been selected to lead the global network since its establishment 30 years ago.

    LAWorld is a non-exclusive international legal network comprising close to 70 independent mid-sized law firms, with more than 1,500 lawyers practising across over 100 cities globally. The network was established to provide clients with direct and immediate access to high-quality local legal advice across jurisdictions, while preserving the independence and partner-led service culture of each member firm.

    Dato’ Mohamed Ridza’s appointment follows nearly two decades of involvement with LAWorld. Mohamed Ridza & Co joined the network in 2007 as the Malaysian member firm and later hosted the LAWorld Annual General Meeting in Kuala Lumpur in 2019, which brought together member firms from Asia, Europe, the Americas and other regions. Within the network’s leadership structure, he has previously served as Treasurer and subsequently as Chair of the Asia Pacific region, a role he held until his elevation to Global Chair. His appointment was formally approved on 8 May 2026 following a unanimous vote by attending members at the LAWorld Annual General Meeting held in Lisbon, Portugal.

    In a related development, Muhammad Akhlil, a senior associate of Mohamed Ridza & Co, has been appointed Director of LAWorld’s NextGen Programme for the Asia Pacific region. The NextGen Programme is the organisation’s dedicated initiative to develop the next generation of lawyers within member firms, focusing on leadership development, cross-border exposure and the nurturing of emerging legal talent across jurisdictions.

    As Global Chair, Dato’ Mohamed Ridza has outlined plans to further strengthen LAWorld’s position as a global legal network. His priorities include expanding membership in underrepresented jurisdictions, particularly in Africa and the Gulf, enhancing regional collaboration, and scaling up the NextGen Programme through structured training, leadership tracks and international secondments. He also emphasised the importance of raising global visibility and quality benchmarks for member firms, strengthening digital governance and connectivity across the network, and building a broader professional ecosystem to better support clients’ cross-border needs.

    LAWorld’s relationship-driven structure enables member firms to collaborate closely across borders through established personal connections, facilitating efficient coordination on cross-border transactions, disputes and international investments. Through this network, Malaysian clients gain structured access to overseas legal expertise, while international clients and law firms are able to engage Malaysian counsel through a recognised local gateway.

    Commenting on his appointment, Dato’ Mohamed Ridza expressed appreciation to LAWorld members for their trust and highlighted his commitment to advancing the network’s standards of legal excellence. He said he looks forward to working closely with the Executive Committee across multiple jurisdictions and noted that LAWorld aligns with Malaysia’s long-standing heritage as a trading nation. He added that the network enables seamless access to global markets for Malaysian and international clients, while also supporting member firms worldwide in advising on Malaysian investments, and emphasised that LAWorld’s personal membership structure allows for faster and more direct access to legal advice across jurisdictions compared to many traditional global networks.

  • Lestari Cooling Energy Enters Operational Phase with Landmark KIPMall Investment

    Lestari Cooling Energy Enters Operational Phase with Landmark KIPMall Investment

    Lestari Cooling Energy Sdn. Bhd. (“Lestari” or “the Company”), a joint venture platform between Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specialising in infrastructure and real assets, Kumpulan Wang Persaraan (Diperbadankan) [KWAP], Malaysia’s public sector pension fund, and KJ Technical Services Sdn. Bhd. (“KJTS SB”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of KJTS Group Berhad (“KJTS”) (KLSE: KJTS), has announced the activation of its operating platform through its first investment in operating assets owned by KIP Real Estate Investment Trust (“KIP REIT”). The investment involves a 20-year cooling services agreement covering eight KIPMall sites, with a total capital deployment of approximately RM23 million.

    Under a novation arrangement involving Pacific Trustees Berhad (acting solely in its capacity as trustee for KIP REIT), KJTS SB and Lestari, Lestari will assume the role of asset owner and capital investor for the project. KJTS SB will continue to provide operation and maintenance (O&M) services as well as chilled water supply across the portfolio, while KJ Engineering Sdn. Bhd. (“KJE”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of KJTS, is responsible for engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) works.

    The cooling services agreement, originally entered into between KJTS SB and the trustee of KIP REIT in March 2025 and subsequently supplemented in October 2025, covers retrofit works, O&M services and chilled water supply across eight KIPMall properties for a 20-year term ending in July 2046. Seven of the eight sites are already operational, with O&M services and chilled water supply commencing between January and May 2026 at KIPMall Bangi, KIPMall Tampoi, KIPMall Masai, KIPMall Kota Tinggi, KIPMall Kota Warisan, KIPMall Senawang and KIPMall Melaka. KIPMall Desa Coalfields is expected to commence operations between May and July 2026.

    This investment directly supports Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) by enabling large-scale energy efficiency improvements across the commercial real estate sector. It also marks the formal activation of Lestari Cooling Energy as an operating platform, strengthening its role in delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions.

    As previously announced, Lestari is expected to be capitalised at up to MYR 1.5 billion (approximately USD 380 million) through aggregate commitments and debt financing, with a target addressable market exceeding MYR 2 billion (approximately USD 500 million) in annual project deployment opportunities. KWAP’s participation in Lestari is aligned with the Ministry of Finance’s GEAR-uP programme, which aims to catalyse growth in high-value, high-impact sectors and support the scaling of Malaysian companies. The investment is also channelled through KWAP’s Dana Iklim+, which focuses on climate solutions and investments aligned with Malaysia’s transition towards a low-carbon economy. This platform represents a key milestone in mobilising institutional capital towards energy transition and sustainable infrastructure development.

    According to Azura Binti Azman, Director at Lestari Cooling Energy, this marks a significant inflection point for the platform as it transitions into an operational phase. With an initial base of revenue-generating assets and additional capacity coming online, she noted that Lestari now has meaningful scale and visibility. The company’s focus will remain on disciplined investment in high-quality cooling infrastructure, building a portfolio that delivers stable, recurring cash flows while advancing energy efficiency and broader sustainability outcomes.

    Valerie Ong, Chief Executive Officer of KIP REIT, said the appointment of Lestari Cooling Energy as the new asset owner under the long-term cooling services arrangement strengthens the operational framework supporting KIP REIT’s retail assets. She added that the partnership enhances efficiency, reliability and long-term sustainability across its malls, while ensuring continuity of service and consistent experience for tenants and shoppers.

    Stonepeak Managing Director, Zach Ennis, stated that the activation of Lestari through its first asset injection reflects a disciplined approach to platform and asset creation across Asia. With seven operational sites already in service, he described Lestari as an income-generating asset platform and expressed confidence in its continued growth alongside KWAP and KJTS.

    Group Managing Director of KJTS Group Berhad, KC Lee, said that across the eight KIPMall sites, a total of 3,910RT of cooling capacity is being installed, with the upgraded systems expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 3,408 tonnes of CO₂ per year, or around 68,157 tonnes of CO₂ over the 20-year contract period. He added that the novation structure enables KJTS to focus on its core strengths in engineering, construction and operation of energy-efficient cooling systems, while Lestari assumes the capital ownership role. This structure, he said, allows both parties to scale more effectively while ensuring service continuity supported by long-term institutional investors.

  • Majestic Gen’s Gen Sphere Achieves 100% Take-Up Amid Strong Market Demand

    Majestic Gen’s Gen Sphere Achieves 100% Take-Up Amid Strong Market Demand

    Majestic Gen has announced that Gen Sphere, its flagship freehold serviced apartment development in Johor Bahru, has achieved a 100 percent take-up rate since its launch in July 2025, marking a significant milestone within the highly competitive city centre property market. The achievement reflects growing confidence in Johor Bahru’s emergence as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic urban destinations, while highlighting strong demand for residential developments that combine strategic connectivity, modern lifestyle appeal, and long-term investment value.

    Developed on 1.25 acres of prime land with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM837 million, Gen Sphere has attracted a diverse group of buyers ranging from young professionals and families to experienced investors. Buyers were drawn to the project’s adaptability, future growth potential, and its location within Johor Bahru’s central growth corridor, where rapid infrastructure development and cross-border mobility continue to reshape the city’s urban landscape. The strong response also reflects increasing confidence in Johor Bahru’s evolution into a cosmopolitan regional hub.

    Majestic Gen Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Hoo Kim See described the milestone as a strong affirmation of the company’s vision to create homes that resonate with the aspirations of a new generation seeking opportunity, connectivity, and growth in Johor Bahru. He said the overwhelming response reinforces the company’s commitment to developing living spaces that reflect the city’s growing confidence and future potential.

    Connectivity remains one of the key factors driving demand for properties in Johor Bahru, particularly among buyers seeking greater convenience and accessibility between Malaysia and Singapore. Gen Sphere is strategically located approximately 440 metres from JB Sentral and 700 metres from the Bukit Chagar RTS Link Station, offering residents seamless access to key transportation hubs and cross-border travel. A proposed direct connection to the existing link bridge to JB Sentral is expected to further enhance accessibility and convenience for residents.

    The upcoming RTS Link is set to transform cross-border travel between Johor Bahru and Singapore by reducing travel time to just six minutes. This major infrastructure development is expected to strengthen Johor Bahru’s position as one of the region’s most connected gateway cities, further enhancing the appeal of developments such as Gen Sphere among homeowners and investors.

    Majestic Gen Executive Director Mr Ta Wee Dher said the RTS Link is reshaping the way people live, move, and connect, adding that Gen Sphere was designed in anticipation of this transformation. He noted that the strong take-up rate demonstrates buyers’ recognition of the development’s value as Johor Bahru enters a new phase of economic and urban growth.

    Designed as a modern lifestyle landmark, Gen Sphere reflects Johor Bahru’s evolving identity through contemporary architecture, landscape design, and community-focused living spaces. The development’s design is inspired by the convergence of cultures and ideas shaping the city today, incorporating organic forms, luminous detailing, and modern elements that embody energy and progress.

    Its Neo Horizon landscape concept blends biomimicry with neo-futuristic design principles to create an environment where greenery, natural light, and open spaces encourage relaxation and renewal. The project aims to balance urban sophistication with nature, creating spaces that foster comfort, well-being, and a sense of belonging.

    The development comprises 996 residences designed with flexibility and modern living in mind. Each unit features layouts that accommodate multigenerational living, rental opportunities, and hybrid work lifestyles. Residential options range from one-bedroom units measuring 459 sq ft to three-bedroom homes of 755 sq ft, including selected 700 sq ft duplex units featuring double-volume interiors and panoramic views of the Johor Bahru skyline. With prices starting from RM609,000, Gen Sphere offers buyers a rare opportunity to own a freehold property in the heart of Johor Bahru.

    Residents will also enjoy an extensive range of lifestyle facilities spread across four levels and eight themed zones. These include social and recreational spaces such as BBQ terraces, pavilions, and a recreational basketball court, alongside wellness-focused amenities including a yoga deck, jogging path, reflexology path, outdoor fitness areas, and a children’s playground.

    At the upper levels of the tower, the Retreat and Aqua Zones on Level 50 feature swimming pools, spa pools, cabanas, and elevated lounges overlooking Johor Bahru’s skyline. Meanwhile, the Fitness Zone on Level 50M completes the lifestyle offering with a fully equipped gymnasium and multipurpose courts for pickleball and badminton.

    Through Gen Sphere, Majestic Gen aims to redefine urban living in Johor Bahru by creating a landmark development centred on aspiration, community, and long-term value. As Johor Bahru continues its transformation and growth, the development reflects both the city’s ambitions and Majestic Gen’s commitment to building sustainable communities for the future.

    For more information, visit Majestic Gen Official Website

  • Expanding the Global Legal Frontier: New LAWorld Chair Dato’ Mohamed Ridza Eyes Africa and Gulf Regions

    Expanding the Global Legal Frontier: New LAWorld Chair Dato’ Mohamed Ridza Eyes Africa and Gulf Regions

    In a landmark achievement for the Malaysian legal sector, Dato’ Mohamed Ridza Abdulla has been elected as the Global Chair of LAWorld, an elite international network of independent law firms. The historic decision was finalized during the network’s Annual General Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, on 8 May 2026, where members voted unanimously to appoint him as the first Malaysian to lead the organization in its 30-year history. As the Managing Partner of Mohamed Ridza & Co, his elevation signifies the increasing prominence of Malaysian legal expertise in facilitating complex international commerce.

    LAWorld is a distinguished legal alliance comprising nearly 70 mid-sized, independent law firms with a combined force of over 1,500 lawyers across 100 major cities. The network is built on a “partner-led” service model, ensuring that clients receive high-level, localized legal advice with the speed and personal attention typical of boutique firms. Dato’ Mohamed Ridza’s relationship with the network dates back to 2007, and his previous leadership roles—including serving as Treasurer and Chair of the Asia Pacific region—have been instrumental in strengthening the network’s presence in Southeast Asia.

    Dato’ Mohamed Ridza Abdulla, Managing Partner of Malaysian law firm Mohamed Ridza & Co

    Setting a clear vision for his term, Dato’ Mohamed Ridza has prioritized the expansion of LAWorld into underrepresented commercial hubs, specifically targeting growth in Africa and the Gulf region. His strategic roadmap also emphasizes the digital modernization of the network’s governance and the enhancement of the “NextGen” programme. This initiative, now led in the Asia Pacific by Muhammad Akhlil of Mohamed Ridza & Co, focuses on cross-border secondments and leadership training, ensuring a robust pipeline of internationally-minded legal talent for the future.

    The appointment is a strategic win for Malaysian businesses looking outward. Dato’ Mohamed Ridza noted that LAWorld operates as a “one-stop center” for global market entry, providing Malaysian clients with immediate, trusted access to foreign jurisdictions. Conversely, it offers a secure gateway for international investors to navigate the Malaysian regulatory environment. This personal and professional connectivity ensures that cross-border transactions and disputes are handled with a level of efficiency and local insight that larger, more rigid global firms often struggle to match.

    With his term commencing immediately, Dato’ Mohamed Ridza is set to lead LAWorld through a period of significant global transition. His chairmanship not only honors his personal professional legacy but also marks a new era of global influence for the Malaysian Bar, reinforcing the nation’s position as a key player in the international legal and trading ecosystem.

  • Applecrumby® x Hock Kee: A Special Partnership Dedicated to Moms and Families

    Applecrumby® x Hock Kee: A Special Partnership Dedicated to Moms and Families

    Applecrumby® and Hock Kee Kopitiam have joined forces this May to launch the “Celebrate Every Crumby Moment” campaign, a nationwide initiative dedicated to honoring mothers across Malaysia. Running from 1 to 31 May 2026, this collaboration across 20 Hock Kee outlets features a unique limited-edition Mother’s Day egg tart box that celebrates the simple joys of family life.

    To add a touch of practical care to this sweet treat, customers who purchase six egg tarts will receive a complimentary pack of Applecrumby® premium honey wipes, a light-hearted gesture designed to help families easily manage the “crumby” moments that come with sharing a warm meal together.

    The heart of this partnership lies in the shared belief that meaningful memories are built through genuine connection and everyday experiences. Applecrumby® Co-Founder Jesmine Tan noted that the campaign serves as a reminder to cherish small moments, while Hock Kee Founder Nick Ng expressed his hope that the collaboration allows families to pause and appreciate the women who matter most over a warm snack.

    The campaign is further brought to life through whimsical in-store touches, including the appearance of iconic Friends of Applecrumby® plushies wearing customized Hock Kee aprons, blending the nostalgic charm of a traditional kopitiam with the modern, thoughtful care of a premium baby brand.

    Beyond the physical outlets, the celebration extends to a wider community through interactive digital engagement and exclusive online rewards. Fans can participate in a social media giveaway to win limited-edition dressed plushies, while those shopping online can utilize special promo codes for discounts on the Applecrumby® website.

    With locations spanning from Kuala Lumpur and Klang to Johor and Kelantan, the “Celebrate Every Crumby Moment” campaign ensures that families across the country have a special way to celebrate Mother’s Day, combining the comfort of heritage food with the comfort of premium care.

  • Bolt Introduces Multi-Stop Rides and Up to 25% Discounts to Ease Rising Travel Costs

    Rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of living continue to place pressure on households across Malaysia, particularly when it comes to daily transportation expenses. In response, ride-hailing platform Bolt Malaysia has introduced a series of initiatives aimed at helping commuters better manage their travel costs. These include ride discounts of up to 25 percent, alongside the expanded promotion of its multi-stop ride feature.

    The multi-stop feature allows passengers to add up to three drop-off points within a single trip, enabling those travelling in the same direction to share the cost. According to platform data, trips with two stops are currently the most common, reflecting a growing trend of shared mobility among Malaysian users. Depending on distance, timing, and number of stops, passengers can save up to 35 percent per journey.

    Bolt attributes its ability to offer competitive pricing to its efficient operating model, which has been in place since its founding in 2013. This efficiency allows the company to pass cost savings directly to both passengers and driver partners, even as broader transportation costs continue to rise.

    Afzan Lutfi, General Manager of Bolt Malaysia, highlighted that the company is focused on delivering practical solutions during challenging economic conditions. He emphasised that initiatives such as ride discounts and shared travel options are designed to provide everyday value while reducing reliance on private vehicle ownership.

    In addition to cost-saving measures, Bolt has also taken steps to improve the overall commuting experience. The platform has increased driver availability during peak hours to reduce waiting times and minimise surge pricing. At the same time, its ride scheduling feature allows users to plan trips in advance, offering greater control over both timing and expenses.

  • MARA Sasar Impak Lebih Besar Kepada Pelajar dan Usahawan Dalam Tempoh Lima Tahun

    MARA Sasar Impak Lebih Besar Kepada Pelajar dan Usahawan Dalam Tempoh Lima Tahun

    Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) terus memperkukuh pembangunan sosioekonomi Bumiputera menerusi pelaksanaan 111 inisiatif di bawah Peta Transformasi MARA. Pelan strategik ini menjadi asas kepada hala tuju baharu organisasi bagi tempoh lima tahun akan datang. Inisiatif yang dirangka merangkumi sektor pendidikan, keusahawanan, kewangan korporat dan khidmat pengurusan. Fokus utama diberikan kepada peningkatan impak kepada pelajar, usahawan serta masyarakat luar bandar. Langkah ini mencerminkan komitmen berterusan MARA dalam memperkasa komuniti Bumiputera secara holistik.

    Pelaksanaan agenda transformasi ini disokong oleh tujuh pasukan khas yang telah digerakkan sejak tahun 2023. Dapatan daripada pasukan ini diterjemahkan kepada 111 inisiatif yang merangkumi enam tunjang utama. Antara tunjang tersebut termasuk dasar dan tadbir urus, kecekapan kewangan serta penyampaian mandat organisasi. Selain itu, ia turut melibatkan pembangunan profesional, teknologi maklumat serta penyelidikan dan jaringan strategik. Pendekatan menyeluruh ini bertujuan memastikan setiap aspek operasi MARA diperkasa secara sistematik dan berkesan.

    Dalam sektor pendidikan, pencapaian akademik Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) terus menunjukkan peningkatan yang membanggakan. Keputusan Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2025 merekodkan Gred Purata Maktab keseluruhan sebanyak 2.062. Lima MRSM berjaya mencatat GPM di bawah 1.500, manakala 14 MRSM merekodkan GPM di bawah 2.000. Peningkatan ini adalah hasil pelaksanaan pelbagai pendekatan termasuk bimbingan profesional kepada guru dan pedagogi baharu. Selain itu, program pembangunan sahsiah pelajar turut diperkukuh bagi melahirkan generasi yang seimbang.

    Usaha peningkatan akademik ini turut diperkasakan melalui pengukuhan program Ulul Albab yang kini melibatkan kira-kira 36,000 pelajar di seluruh MRSM. Program ini memberi penekanan kepada keseimbangan antara kecemerlangan akademik dan penguasaan ilmu agama. Dalam masa yang sama, MARA memperkenalkan Program Elite Bound bagi memperluas peluang pendidikan global. Program ini menyediakan laluan khas kepada pelajar cemerlang untuk melanjutkan pengajian di universiti terbaik dunia. Setakat ini, seramai 50 pelajar telah terpilih untuk menjalani fasa persediaan di Kolej MARA Seremban dan Kolej MARA Banting.

    Dalam sektor keusahawanan, MARA terus memberi fokus kepada pembangunan industri halal dan pengukuhan kapasiti usahawan Bumiputera. Usaha ini bertujuan membantu mereka menembusi pasaran antarabangsa secara lebih agresif. Sepanjang tahun 2025, program Gate to Global mencatat nilai transaksi jualan sebanyak RM449 juta. Program ini melibatkan 362 usahawan dengan 2,818 produk berjaya menembusi pasaran global. Pencapaian ini membuktikan keberkesanan strategi MARA dalam memperkasa usahawan tempatan.

    Selain itu, tujuh Kawasan Industri Makanan MARA telah ditransformasikan kepada MARA Halal Industrial Park. Inisiatif ini menyediakan kemudahan kilang, latihan, khidmat teknikal serta akses pembiayaan kepada usahawan. Langkah ini membantu memperkukuh ekosistem industri halal dalam kalangan usahawan Bumiputera. MARA juga melaksanakan projek transformasi usahawan luar bandar dan menaik taraf premis perniagaan di pelbagai lokasi. Pendekatan ini memastikan pertumbuhan perniagaan lebih mampan dan inklusif.

    Dalam sektor kewangan korporat, MARA mengambil langkah lebih agresif untuk meningkatkan disiplin bayaran balik dalam kalangan peminjam. Pendekatan yang dilaksanakan termasuk peluasan kaedah bayaran auto debit, potongan gaji dan e-mandate. Hasilnya, kadar pembiayaan tidak berbayar berjaya diturunkan daripada 35.2 peratus pada Mac 2025 kepada 24.1 peratus pada Mac 2026. Pada masa sama, MARA memperkenalkan dasar pengurusan kredit yang lebih komprehensif. Latihan profesional turut diperkukuh bagi meningkatkan kompetensi pegawai dalam pengurusan kredit.

    Seiring perubahan landskap ekonomi semasa, MARA turut melaksanakan pembaharuan Akta MARA 2026. Langkah ini bertujuan memastikan organisasi kekal relevan, responsif dan berdaya saing. Penambahbaikan melibatkan pemodenan kerangka tadbir urus dan pengukuhan fungsi strategik organisasi. Selain itu, mandat MARA disesuaikan dengan cabaran ekonomi masa kini dan masa hadapan. Usaha ini turut menekankan aspek ketelusan dan pematuhan dalam pengurusan kewangan.

    Sempena ulang tahun ke-60 penubuhannya, MARA akan menganjurkan Karnival 60 Tahun MARA yang berlangsung di Pusat Dagangan Dunia Kuala Lumpur dari 1 hingga 5 Mei 2026. Karnival ini bertujuan menghimpunkan pelbagai inisiatif pembangunan dalam satu platform terbuka kepada masyarakat. Pelbagai program akan diadakan termasuk pameran pendidikan, forum akademik dan program pembangunan kemahiran. Selain itu, sesi jaringan keusahawanan turut dianjurkan bagi membuka peluang kerjasama baharu. Penganjuran ini menjadi simbol perjalanan panjang MARA dalam memperkasa sosioekonomi Bumiputera.

  • Trust as the Foundation of Malaysia’s Digital Payments GrowthBy Tee Kean Kang, Chief Executive Officer of Paydibs

    Trust as the Foundation of Malaysia’s Digital Payments GrowthBy Tee Kean Kang, Chief Executive Officer of Paydibs

    Malaysia’s digital payments ecosystem continues to expand at an unprecedented pace, yet scale alone does not equate to strength. In 2025, the country recorded 18.4 billion e-payment transactions, reflecting a 25 per cent year-on-year increase, with Malaysians conducting an average of 538 digital transactions each. DuitNow QR volumes have also doubled to three billion, supported by nearly three million merchant touchpoints across the country.

    While these figures demonstrate strong adoption, they also raise a more pressing question for the industry: whether trust is keeping pace as digital transactions become increasingly embedded in daily life. Reported fraud losses reached RM2.2 billion in 2025, highlighting the growing risks within an increasingly digital ecosystem. In the first quarter of the year alone, online fraud cases rose to 12,110, with total losses amounting to RM573 million. Although digital payments continue to grow rapidly, these figures reflect a parallel reality in which confidence in the system is being tested in real time. This marks an important inflection point, where the focus must now shift from driving adoption at scale to strengthening trust and assurance at every stage of the transaction journey.

    Trust in payments is often discussed in broad terms, but for businesses on the ground it is built on three core elements: visibility, control, and protection. Visibility allows merchants to track the status of transactions in real time, while control provides certainty over fund settlements, enabling better cash flow management. Protection offers reassurance that businesses are safeguarded when unexpected issues arise. When any of these elements is weakened, trust can quickly deteriorate, especially for smaller businesses operating with limited margins.

    In practice, most payment issues do not occur at scale but at the edges of the system, where processes are fragmented and operational gaps are more likely to appear. For micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), a delayed settlement or disputed transaction is not a minor disruption but one that directly affects daily operations.

    Bank Negara Malaysia has already acknowledged this shift in focus. The priority is no longer solely on expanding digital payments, but also on preserving trust within the ecosystem. Frameworks such as the Shared Electronic Fraud and Theft policy promote shared accountability between financial institutions and users, while infrastructure enhancements such as RENTAS+ and the adoption of ISO 20022 standards improve transparency and system resilience. However, regulation alone is not sufficient to build trust; it must be reinforced through consistent, real-world experiences at the merchant level.

    Malaysia’s 1.2 million MSMEs sit at the centre of this transition. Unlike large enterprises, they often lack extensive financial systems or dedicated risk management teams. Their exposure is immediate, and their tolerance for disruption is low. For these businesses, trust is not defined by policy or technical standards, but by whether payments are received as expected, whether transactions are transparent, and whether digitalisation simplifies rather than complicates operations. This is where the industry must move beyond enabling access and focus on delivering assurance.

    From an operational standpoint, addressing this gap requires rethinking the purpose of payment infrastructure. Direct connectivity to national payment rails is not merely a technical improvement. It removes intermediary layers, enabling faster access to funds and greater visibility over cash flow. This is not just about speed, but about certainty, which is essential for business stability.

    Similarly, consolidating multiple payment methods into a single platform or device goes beyond convenience. It reduces fragmentation, minimises operational risk, and ensures consistency in transaction outcomes. Unified terminals that support QR, card, and alternative payment methods within a single controlled environment reflect this approach. These are deliberate design choices aligned with how merchants operate, rather than how payment systems have traditionally been structured.

    Trust must also extend beyond transactions to address broader business risks. Many MSMEs remain underinsured, often due to the complexity or perceived disconnect between traditional insurance products and daily operations. Embedding protection directly into payment infrastructure provides a more practical solution, where coverage such as business interruption, liability, and asset protection becomes part of the tools merchants already use. By integrating these safeguards into the payment experience, barriers to adoption are reduced while businesses are better protected against unforeseen disruptions. This reflects a broader shift in fintech, where value is created not only through functionality, but through relevance and integration into real business needs.

    Paydibs, for instance, has partnered with Great Eastern General Insurance to embed business protection directly into its payment terminals. Coverage for fire and flood damage, cash-in-transit loss, employer liability, and business disruption is bundled with the terminal merchants already use to accept digital payments. The principle is clear: businesses should not have to choose between digital growth and operational protection, as both should be inherently built in.

    Eighteen billion transactions in a single year is a significant milestone, and Malaysia has clearly demonstrated its ability to achieve digital payment scale. Bank Negara Malaysia’s priorities for 2026, which emphasise stronger fraud prevention, cross-sector collaboration, and inclusive adoption, further reinforce trust as a foundational pillar for continued progress.

    In this environment, differentiation will no longer be defined by transaction volume or processing speed alone. It will be shaped by the ability to deliver systems that are resilient, transparent, and purpose-built to support businesses through both growth and uncertainty. Digitalisation accelerates when businesses have confidence in the systems they rely on, and that confidence is earned through consistent performance, clear visibility, and meaningful protection.

  • SSM Raikan 24 Tahun, Perkenal Empat Inisiatif Baharu 2026

    Hari ini menandakan sambutan ulang tahun ke-24 Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM). Sejak penubuhannya pada 16 April 2002, SSM terus memainkan peranan penting sebagai pendaftar dan pengawal selia korporat negara, berpaksikan aspirasi untuk menjadi institusi terunggul dalam bidangnya.

    Kejayaan yang dikecapi sepanjang tempoh ini adalah hasil komitmen tinggi serta profesionalisme seluruh warga SSM dalam memperkukuh amalan tadbir urus korporat agar sentiasa relevan dengan perkembangan semasa. Bersempena ulang tahun ke-24 ini, SSM memperkenalkan empat inisiatif utama bagi tahun 2026:

    i. Klinik Pematuhan & Kempen Pemulihan Dokumen Statutori
     Inisiatif ini memberi peluang kepada syarikat yang menghadapi kesukaran pematuhan di bawah Akta Syarikat 2016 untuk menyelesaikan tunggakan. Antara manfaatnya termasuk pengecualian kompaun tertentu, pengurangan kompaun sehingga 98%, serta mengelakkan tindakan undang-undang.

    ii. Skim 1 OKU 1 Perniagaan
     Diteruskan bagi membantu usahawan OKU dengan kemudahan pendaftaran dan pembaharuan perniagaan secara percuma setiap tahun.

    iii. Skim Pendaftaran Perniagaan Percuma (SPPP)
     Tempoh skim dipanjangkan kepada dua tahun, menyasarkan golongan B40 dan pelajar institusi pengajian serta kemahiran.

    iv. Skim Pendaftaran Perniagaan Percuma Warga Emas (SPPWE)
     Akan bermula pada 1 Jun 2026, bertujuan memberi ruang kepada warga emas untuk menjana pendapatan melalui aktiviti keusahawanan.

    Keempat-empat inisiatif ini diharapkan mampu meningkatkan tahap pematuhan korporat, memudahkan urusan perniagaan serta memperkukuh kecekapan dan ketelusan ekosistem perniagaan negara secara keseluruhan.

    Sekalung penghargaan turut dizahirkan kepada seluruh warga SSM atas dedikasi dan sumbangan berterusan. Semoga SSM terus kekal sebagai badan pengawal selia korporat yang berdaya maju dan berintegriti, selari dengan agenda Kerangka Ekonomi MADANI.

    Selamat menyambut ulang tahun ke-24 SSM.