News In Brief

Welcome to our ‘News In Brief’ column in which we digest all the news releases for you in no more than five paragraphs. Below are snippets of all the media releases we received from June 26 till the end of the week. This column updates regularly throughout the week.

Weak CX and EX Links

Sydney, June 26: NTT Ltd. has released its 2023 Global Customer Experience Report, highlighting the ongoing importance of CX for C-suite executives.
In ANZ, 95 percent of organizations have a designated executive responsible for CX. The report also emphasizes the rising significance of employee experience (EX) for CEOs globally. However, over 80 percent of ANZ organizations see CX and EX as weak links, negatively impacting their business.
Top performers are more advanced in digitalization, leveraging cloud-based technologies, AI, automation, and machine learning. Key findings include the prominence of cloud technology, the prioritization of AI by top performers, and the need for greater alignment between CX and business strategies.
The report also stresses the importance of EX, as most ANZ organizations require human support for CX interactions. Investing in technology for CX and EX drives financial and satisfaction benefits.

Supercharging Sustainability with Green IT

Sydney, June 26: Avanade Launches Green IT Enabler, Enhancing Sustainability for Organizations Avanade, a leading Microsoft solutions provider, has introduced Avanade Green IT Enabler, a new service designed to assist organizations in reducing the carbon impact of their IT infrastructure. This solution automates monitoring and offers practical measures for developing and optimizing sustainable technology. Research conducted by Avanade reveals that 51 percent of Australian organizations consider digital innovation crucial for achieving sustainability objectives. Avanade Green IT Enabler complements its existing services, empowering organizations to integrate sustainability and resource awareness into their technology operations. The significant contribution of technology to carbon emissions often goes unnoticed, with data centers alone surpassing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint. Avanade’s Green IT Enabler addresses this challenge by enabling organizations to minimize resource consumption and promote sustainability within their technological ecosystems. A mere 38 percent of Australian organizations express high confidence in their digital capabilities to meet ESG targets and government regulations on schedule. Avanade Green IT Enabler fills this gap by optimizing resources and reducing electricity requirements, enabling businesses to make substantial progress toward their sustainability goals. Jillian Moore, Avanade’s Global Head of Advisory and Executive Sponsor for Sustainability emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainability throughout organizations. Avanade Green IT Enabler allows continuous optimization of technologies, devices, and processes, fostering transparency and trust through ethical and sustainable technology utilization. By leveraging Avanade’s Green IT Enabler, Australian organizations can drive sustainability targets, support business goals, and ensure regulatory compliance. This service incorporates a state-of-the-art carbon accounting tool that tracks sustainability progress, identifies carbon-inefficient systems, and optimizes them through code rewriting and training in green software engineering practices. The result is enhanced resource efficiency and reduced carbon emissions.

Dual-effect of Hypochlorite Discovered

Adelaide, June 26: New research from Flinders University and the University of Cambridge reveals the complex role of hypochlorite in human health. While excessive production of hypochlorite can contribute to various health problems, the study shows that it can also have helpful effects. Hypochlorite has been found to neutralize a toxic molecule in cultured human brain cells, potentially opening new avenues for treating Alzheimer’s disease and inflammatory conditions. The research demonstrates that hypochlorite reduces the harm caused by amyloid-beta peptide, a key factor in Alzheimer’s disease. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the optimal levels of hypochlorite for beneficial effects and may lead to novel therapeutic strategies. The study, titled “Hypochlorite-induced oxidation promotes aggregation and reduces the toxicity of amyloid beta 1-42,” was published in Redox Biology.

Financial Abusers ‘On Notice’

Sydney, June 26: Major banks combat financial abuse with new Terms and Conditions (T&Cs), says the Centre for Women’s Economic Safety (CWES). NAB and the Commonwealth Bank implement T&Cs allowing account suspension or denial for harmful behavior.
CWES applauds the banks’ efforts to deter financial abuse and coercive control.
The Designed to Disrupt report calls for T&Cs that condemn the abuse, with consequences for offenders.
By addressing financial abuse, banks send a strong message against gender-based violence. These measures aim to enhance financial safety and promote respect and equality.

China Joins GSMA Open Gateway

Shanghai, June 26: The GSMA Open Gateway initiative gains momentum with the inclusion of China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom.
This industry framework promotes collaboration between developers, cloud providers, and mobile operators through open network APIs.
With the participation of these Chinese operators, the initiative now has support from 29 operators worldwide, representing 60 percent of mobile connections.
The initiative aims to accelerate digital services and mobile apps, create new markets, and unlock the value of 5G connectivity.
The Chinese operators emphasize the potential for innovation, reaching a wider audience, and driving economic development through the initiative.

MR. TOY: Lucky Shoppers, RM10,000 Spree

Kuala Lumpur, June 27: Ten shoppers enjoyed a thrilling 60-second shopping spree at MR. TOY, collectively worth RM10,000.
Winners were chosen from thousands who participated in the recent contest.
MR. TOY, Malaysia’s favorite toy retailer, has 54 stores nationwide and offers a diverse range of toys. They recently launched the “Quality Toys, Greater Joys” initiative, providing high-quality, affordable, and educational toys.
Stay updated through their website and social media.

FedEx Malaysia Announces 2023 Winners

Kuala Lumpur, June 27: FedEx Express Malaysia announced the winners of the 2023 FedEx Express/Junior Achievement International Trade Challenge (FedEx/JA ITC) Malaysia Finals.
Six exceptional students will represent Malaysia at the regional finals, showcasing talent and innovation. The competition fosters business acumen and teamwork.
Participants collaborate with students from various regions, exchange experiences, and brainstorm ideas.
The finals included workshops on global trade and marketing strategies. FedEx Express Malaysia and Junior Achievement empower students with essential knowledge and practical experience.

Banking Conference Drives Sustainability

Kuala Lumpur, June 27: Malaysia aims for net zero emissions by 2050 but faces hurdles in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the energy and transportation sectors. Financial institutions are urged to incorporate ESG principles and mitigate risks to support national efforts. Banks should lead in decarbonization and ethical practices. Strong collaboration is needed across sectors and regions, along with adequate financial allocation for a positive impact.
The Malaysian Banking Conference discussed ESG initiatives, transition financing, and risk management for a greener economy. AICB Chairman highlighted the sector’s role in poverty reduction, job creation, and building an ESG-focused workforce. ABM Chairman emphasized the need for banks to consider climate change impact beyond their carbon footprint. Public-private collaboration is crucial to mobilize financing and decarbonize the economy.
Government ministers stressed the urgency of combating climate change and encouraged banks to embrace sustainability. They warned against greenwashing and profit-driven approaches. The conference featured regulators, ESG experts, and industry leaders from renowned institutions. Closed-door roundtables delved deeper into Malaysia’s ESG narrative.
MBC 2023 gathered over 500 delegates from local and international financial institutions. AICB will host WCBI 2023 to drive competency-building and transformative strategies in banking education. New standards will focus on treasury risk and operational resilience, aligning with GBEStB’s comprehensive guide to core banking principles.

L’Oréal Enhances Cosmetology Education

Kuala Lumpur, June 27: L’Oréal Malaysia has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to address the skills mismatch among graduates. The partnership aims to enhance vocational education in cosmetology and prepare students for the job market. L’Oréal Malaysia will collaborate with the Technical Vocational Education and Training Division to introduce initiatives such as training, upskilling, knowledge transfer, and industry exposure opportunities.
Established in Kuala Lumpur in 1995, L’Oréal Malaysia is known for offering technologically advanced beauty products across 12 iconic brands. The company’s portfolio includes L’Oréal Paris, Maybelline New York, Lancôme, and Kiehl’s, among others.
The Senior Deputy Director of the TVET Division, Ministry of Education, Zulkernai Fauzi, expressed the importance of this public-private partnership (PPP) in equipping teachers and graduates with relevant skills and knowledge. The collaboration aims to address the skill mismatch and enhance graduates’ employability. The partnership is expected to benefit cosmetology students and teachers, ensuring they have the necessary skills to meet industry demands.
Tomas Hruska, Managing Director of L’Oréal Malaysia, emphasized the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices. He stated that the partnership with the Ministry of Education is a testament to L’Oréal’s dedication to giving back to the community and empowering the industry with talented individuals.
Both parties hope that the partnership will expand in the future, providing opportunities for business students to gain insights and coaching from the beauty industry. The collaboration between the public and private sectors is seen as a win-win for the nation.

Vertiv Enhances Data Center Efficiency

Kuala Lumpur, June 27: Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure solutions, has launched Vertiv™ EnerSav. This service optimizes data center energy consumption without major infrastructure changes. Highly-trained engineers conduct assessments, recommend thermal management strategies, and provide energy reduction reports. Solutions include the Liebert® iCOM-S software and External Digital Demand Response Technology (EDD-RT). The goal is to reduce costs, extend equipment lifespan, and improve performance.

Freshable and Canon Collaboration

Kuala Lumpur, June 27: Freshable, the ready-to-cook meal kit delivery service, is collaborating with Canon Marketing Malaysia to celebrate National Camera Day on June 29th. The partnership aims to inspire individuals to explore the world of photography and videography through a content creation workshop held at Utama Farm in Petaling Jaya.
Freshable, known for its convenient meal kits and chef-inspired recipes, revolutionizes home cooking and appeals to food and photography enthusiasts alike. The collaboration seeks to empower content creators and encourage them to capture stunning images and express their unique perspectives.
The “Farm to Table” workshop showcased camera-ready plates of food and meal kits, highlighting the freshness and quality of Freshable’s ingredients. Participants had the opportunity to use the latest Canon cameras to capture beautiful moments and share joyous occasions through food photography and videography. The collaboration between Freshable and Canon aimed to capture the essence of culinary artistry and inspire both amateurs and professionals to savor every moment and share joy through the lens.
Adeline Tang, Co-founder, and CEO of Freshable expressed her excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the union of food and photography as a means to celebrate National Camera Day.
Freshable also unveiled its upcoming La Tomatina themed-recipes for July and August, reaffirming the company’s commitment to providing convenient and nutritious meals. To learn more about Freshable, visit their website and social media pages.

Top Microsoft Partners of 2023

Sydney, June 28: Avanade and Accenture have been named the Microsoft Global SI Partner of The Year for 2023. This marks their 18th recognition and showcases their success in implementing Microsoft solutions across industries.
They received a total of 18 awards, including seven country-level Partner of The Year accolades.
The companies are expanding their collaboration with Microsoft to drive generative AI adoption.
Pam Maynard, Avanade CEO, attributes their success to their talented workforce and expertise.
Chris Howarth, Accenture Microsoft Business Group Lead, emphasizes their commitment to helping clients accelerate change and achieve growth.

SCIB Announces Restructuring at Board Level

Kuching, June 28: Sarawak Consolidated Industries Berhad (SCIB) has announced the appointments of Abang Abdillah Izzarim Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari as Executive Chairman and Marcus Chin Choon Wei as Executive Director Kang Wei Luen, Dr. Dang Nguk Ling, and Liaw Way Gian have been appointed as Independent Non-Executive Directors.
The company also announced the resignation of the Group CEO and Managing Director, as well as three Independent Non-Executive Directors.
Ku Chong Hong has been designated as the new Managing Director.
SCIB’s order book stands at RM495.3 million as of the end of 3QFY2023.

E-commerce Powerhouse Partnership: Adyen & Shopify

Sydney, June 30: Adyen (AMS: ADYEN) and Shopify have formed a global partnership to enhance e-commerce capabilities and simplify the customer journey for enterprise merchants. Adyen’s integrated payment solutions and Shopify’s high-converting checkout process will benefit large-scale retailers, enabling them to scale quickly and expand into new markets. The collaboration includes the integration of Adyen’s payment app on the Shopify Payment Partner Platform, providing enterprise merchants with a flexible payment experience.
By eliminating operational complexities and offering centralized management of commerce and payments, this partnership empowers merchants to deliver exceptional customer experiences, drive operational efficiency, and unlock growth opportunities in the evolving landscape of enterprise e-commerce.

Shareholder Discrepancy Raises Concerns

Kuching, June 30: Sarawak Consolidated Industries Berhad (“SCIB”) has announced that Datuk Mohd Abdul Karim Abdullah, previously identified as the Company’s largest shareholder with a 21.81 percent stake, is not listed as a shareholder based on the record of depositors (“ROD”) as of 21 June 2023.
Karim’s shareholding does not appear on the Company’s top 30 shareholders list either. SCIB has observed a discrepancy between its ROD and the register of substantial shareholders regarding Datuk Karim’s shareholding and has reached out to him for confirmation and information, but has not received any updates. As per the Companies Act 2016, shareholders are obligated to inform the Company and/or the Registrar of any changes or cessation of shareholding as a substantial shareholder. SCIB’s obligations are limited to recording entries in the register of substantial shareholders upon receiving required notices and making necessary announcements to Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. Unless SCIB receives a notice from Datuk Karim, there is no need for the Company to update its register. SCIB is not obliged to inquire about Datuk Karim’s rights regarding his shares and is not required to disclose or rectify the discrepancy based on the information in the ROD.

App Warning: Pink Whatsapp

Kuala Lumpur, June 30: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has issued a warning against the “Pink Whatsapp” app, which falsely claims to provide enhanced security and privacy features compared to the official WhatsApp. However, the app poses a significant security risk by accessing personal data stored on users’ smartphones. Steven Shceurmann, RVP of ASEAN at Palo Alto Networks, advised users to exercise caution when downloading apps from unofficial sources and to be aware of the associated data privacy threats. Hackers often exploit user behavior through social engineering attacks and phishing schemes, making it crucial for users to stay informed, rely on official sources, and avoid clicking unverified links. Palo Alto Networks highlighted the growing risk of malicious links on popular social media platforms and urged users to protect their data and devices.