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 Sept 23 till the end of the week.
This article updates throughout the week.

Chronic Pain in Kids Overlooked

Sydney, Sept 23: One in five children in Australia experience chronic pain, yet a shortage of paediatric pain services leaves many without timely care.
With only six clinics nationwide, some children wait up to three years for treatment, missing 22 per cent of school on average.
To raise awareness, Kids in Pain Week will run from September 23-29, 2024, featuring webinars and virtual events for families.
Chronic Pain Australia urges the government and community to take children’s pain seriously, as early intervention is critical for development.

Supermarket Pricing Misled Consumers

Sydney, Sept 23: The ACCC has launched Federal Court proceedings against Woolworths and Coles, accusing both of misleading consumers with deceptive discount pricing on hundreds of products.
The investigation revealed that prices were artificially increased by at least 15 per cent before being reduced under promotions like ‘Prices Dropped’ and ‘Down Down,’ creating the illusion of discounts. Over 500 products were involved, with consumers left unable to make informed choices.
The ACCC is seeking penalties, declarations, and community service orders as part of the proceedings.

Korean Air’s New Upcycled Gear

Sydney, Sept 23: Korean Air has launched its latest upcycled collection featuring name tags and golf ball markers crafted from a retired Boeing 777-200ER.
Made from the aircraft’s fuselage, each piece is unique, with serial numbers and colors varying by section.
This marks the airline’s fourth upcycling project, continuing its commitment to sustainability.
The new items are available for purchase through Korean Air’s e-skyshop.
The airline has previously repurposed aircraft and inflight materials, offering eco-friendly products while preserving aviation history.

$1M Boost for Women Entrepreneurs

Sydney, Sept 23: Sister Pitch 2024, hosted by Global Sisters in partnership with dentsu, secured over $1 million in support for 12 women-led businesses through investments from major corporates and philanthropists.
Held in Sydney, the event connected emerging female entrepreneurs with investors from companies like Afterpay, Meta, and KPMG, fulfilling all funding and support requests.
The initiative aims to empower diverse women entrepreneurs, advancing economic security and fostering partnerships that help businesses grow and thrive in Australia.

EZZ Signs AO Sponsorship

Sydney, Sept 23: EZZ Life Science Holdings (ASX: EZZ) has secured a three-year partnership with the Australian Open starting in 2025.
As an Official Regional Partner, EZZ aims to increase brand awareness across China and Southeast Asia, targeting over 330 million tennis fans in China.
EZZ Chairman Glenn Cross highlighted plans for tailored digital content, influencer collaborations, and promotional giveaways.
The company will offer prizes, including trips to the Australian Open, to boost consumer engagement and drive sales in key markets like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Cross emphasized the partnership’s role in expanding EZZ’s global presence.

Wild Robot Leads Box Office

Sydney, Sept 23: The Wild Robot topped the national box office over the weekend, earning $1.96M, bringing its total to $2.90M.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice followed in second place with $1.54M, reaching a total of $9.40M.
Transformers One secured third with $1.27M, while Deadpool & Wolverine held fourth, adding $653K for a record-breaking $65.48M total.
Rounding out the top five, Australian family film Runt earned $611K in its opening weekend.
This weekend’s total box office gross was $8.95M, with the top 10 films accounting for 80.3 per cent of earnings.
School holidays are now on in three states, further boosting attendance.

Toyota’s Strong Sales Surge

Sydney, Sept 23: UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd reported impressive sales of 8,500 units in August 2024, bringing its year-to-date total to 64,000 units.
The best-selling models were the Toyota Vios, Hilux, and Corolla Cross. UMWT also began taking orders for enhanced 2024 models of the Hilux, Fortuner, and GR86, featuring upgrades like Vehicle Stability Control and Remote Engine Start.
As part of the September 2024 “Move in Harmony” promo, buyers can enjoy savings on models like the Yaris.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Season 7 Round 2 returns on 27-29 September at Sepang International Circuit.

Pyng Eliminates Card Surcharges

Sydney, Sept 23: Sydney-based tech startup Pyng aims to save Australians more than $4 billion annually in tap-and-go card surcharge fees.
The Pyng app offers surcharge-free, instant payments for consumers and businesses.
Users link their bank accounts securely via the app, which provides fast and secure transactions through QR code scanning.
Pyng also ensures businesses are paid instantly, reducing wait times for funds.
The app is free for now, with plans to charge merchants a low flat fee in the future, while consumers remain surcharge-free.

ATP2 Targets Vitality Boost

Sydney, Sept 23: AGAPE ATP Corporation (ATPC) has launched an enhanced version of its wellness supplement, ATP2, designed to improve health, energy, and overall well-being.
The supplement, now featuring 76 essential minerals, 20 amino acids, and plant-based enzymes, targets key health concerns like aging, metabolism, and chronic disease management.
ATPC aims to sell 5,000 units by year-end, driven by the product’s advanced formulation, which includes hydrogen acetate technology to support cellular health and anti-aging.
Locally manufactured in Malaysia, ATP2 reflects ATPC’s commitment to sustainable wellness innovation.

BA Leads Carbon Removal Push

Sydney, Sept 23: British Airways has signed a £9 million carbon removals deal, becoming the UK’s largest purchaser of these credits.
Partnering with CUR8, the airline will support projects like enhanced rock weathering and carbon capture from whisky distilleries.
This investment is key to British Airways’ wider sustainability goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
Around one-third of its emissions reductions will come from carbon removals, crucial for addressing climate change.
The airline has also partnered with The Earthshot Prize to drive climate innovation and solutions globally.

iV-GO Wins Design Gold

Copenhagen, Sept 23: Danish medtech company OSAA Innovation has won Gold at the 2024 Australian Good Design Awards for its portable, 100 per cent mechanical IV-pump, iV-GO®.
The innovative device, designed to enhance patient mobility and improve treatment workflows, was recognised in the Product Design category for its exceptional design and impact on healthcare.
With the ability to provide IV treatment on-the-go, iV-GO® is expected to transform the patient experience and free up hospital space, offering a groundbreaking solution for healthcare institutions.

Cropmate Berhad IPO Approved

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 23: Cropmate Berhad has received approval to list on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia.
The fertiliser manufacturer, founded in 2018, specialises in both conventional and specialty fertilisers. The IPO will involve the issuance of 210 million new shares and an offer for sale of 50 million shares.
The funds raised will support Cropmate’s expansion, including upgrading its facilities and research capabilities.
Cropmate reported RM151.5 million in revenue for 2023, with its formulation and blending segment contributing 74 per cent of the total.

Sateliot Gains Key Investor

Barcelona, Sept 23: Global Portfolio Investments has injected 10 million euros into Sateliot, leading its 30 million euro Series B funding round.
The funds will be used to advance Sateliot’s planned 100 5G-IoT satellite constellation, which aims to provide real-time global coverage by 2028.
This financial endorsement sends a strong signal to other potential investors. Sateliot has already raised 25 million euros since 2019 and secured 250 million euros in contracts.
The company expects to begin commercial services in 2025, aiming for 500 million euros in revenue by 2027.

EPB Expands with Land Acquisition

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 23: EPB Group Berhad has acquired a 7.84-acre industrial land in Penang Science Park North for RM22.49 million.
The land, adjacent to its current facilities, will be used to construct a new factory, corporate office, warehouse, and showroom.
This expansion aligns with EPB’s IPO objective to increase production capacity and meet the growing demand for food processing and packaging machinery.
Funded by RM13 million from public issue proceeds, the new facilities are expected to enhance operational efficiency and integrate robotics technology.
Construction is set to be completed by the second half of 2027.

Clean Energy Support Grows

Sydney, Sept 24: Australians are backing the transition to clean energy, driven by the potential for job creation and economic growth, according to GHD’s CROSSROADS report.
The survey reveals that 64 per cent of Australians believe clean energy will create new industries and jobs.
However, concerns about affordability and reliability remain, with 64 per cent worried about future energy costs.
Generational differences in optimism are notable, with younger Australians showing more enthusiasm for the transition than older groups.
Australians also call for greater government investment and education to support clean energy adoption at the community level.

Magma Group’s Strategic Expansion

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 24: Magma Group Berhad has announced two key corporate proposals to strengthen its financial position and expand its property portfolio. The company will reduce its share capital by RM380.0 million to eliminate accumulated losses, improving its balance sheet and creating financial flexibility for future growth.
Additionally, Magma is acquiring a 2.26-acre land in Persiaran Dutamas for RM80.0 million, with plans for a mixed-use development comprising service apartments and commercial spaces. The acquisition will be financed through RM8.0 million in cash and the issuance of 120.0 million new ordinary shares and Redeemable Non-Convertible Preference Shares (RPS).
Group Managing Director Datuk Seri Thomas Liang Chee Fong described the capital reduction as a move to reset the company’s financial foundation and the land acquisition as a milestone for Magma’s property division, contributing to long-term growth strategies.

SDCG, SSE Form Partnership

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 24: Solar District Cooling Group Berhad (SDCG) has signed a collaboration agreement with Sunrise Shares Energy Sdn Bhd (SSE) to promote renewable energy and sustainability solutions across various sectors in Malaysia.
The partnership will combine SDCG’s expertise in Building Management Systems, solar thermal systems, and energy efficiency services with SSE’s portfolio of commercial solar panels and energy storage solutions.
Both companies will offer joint energy solutions and sustainability advisory services, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and support clients in achieving green certifications.

Vertiv Hosts AI Masterclass

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 24: Vertiv concluded its Malaysia Masterclass event, drawing over 140 attendees to discuss the impact of AI on critical infrastructure.
The event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and breakout sessions focused on high-density AI deployments and the technologies supporting high-performance computing.
Experts shared insights on power protection, thermal management, and the challenges of AI integration. The final leg of the Masterclass series will take place in the Philippines on September 25th.

Solarvest Seeks Energy Incentives

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 24: Solarvest Holdings Berhad has proposed key recommendations for Malaysia’s 2025 budget to boost renewable energy growth.
The company urges the government to expand Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs, offer tax incentives for solar PV installations, and reinstate the Green Technology Financing Scheme.
Solarvest also calls for residential solar adoption incentives, grid infrastructure upgrades, and support for sustainable energy self-sufficiency, including funding for solar industry training and innovative land use programs.
These proposals aim to drive Malaysia’s transition to a low-carbon future.

Hub Australia’s Workplace Report

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 24: Hub Australia’s latest report, Love Where You Work, highlights the rise of ‘workplace window dressing’ and offers a roadmap to enhance workplace experience.
Based on a survey of 775 members, the report emphasizes the importance of social connection, flexible work arrangements, and meaningful office environments.
It also found that 50 per cent of respondents preferred working from the office more than from home, driven by a desire for collaboration and connection.
Hub Australia advocates for workplaces that foster culture, wellbeing, and employee engagement, with features inspired by luxury hotels.

Metricon Tops Home Builder List

Sydney, Sept 25: Metricon has been named Australia’s number one home builder for the ninth consecutive year, according to the 2023/24 HIA COLORBOND® Steel Housing Top 100 Report.
With 3,894 home starts across Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia, the company’s total builds over nine years now approach 44,000.CEO Brad Duggan warned about Australia’s construction challenges, highlighting the need to cut red tape, boost access to land, and address the cost-of-living crisis to restore customer confidence.
Metricon continues to prioritize affordability and quality, focusing on sustainable growth and strong industry relationships.

NSW Launches 24-Hour Strategy

Sydney, Sept 25: The NSW Government has unveiled its new 24-Hour Economy Strategy, aimed at supporting night-time workers, businesses, and cultural entrepreneurs.
The initiative includes the expansion of the Purple Flag accreditation program for vibrant and safe night-time districts, new Vibrancy Reforms to cut red tape, and the Live Performance Venue Accelerator Program to help transform hospitality venues into live performance spaces.
The Uptown District Acceleration Program will also promote local business communities as key night-time destinations. Applications for the Live Performance Venue Accelerator open on September 30.

RMS Cloud Expands Adyen Partnership

Sydney, Sept 25: RMS Cloud has extended its partnership with global payments platform Adyen to simplify operations for over 7,000 hospitality properties worldwide. Using Adyen for Platforms, RMS Cloud’s property management system now offers streamlined financial management, faster payment processing, and enhanced user experiences, including contactless check-ins. The partnership has resulted in significant cost savings and operational efficiencies, with properties reporting annual savings between $50,000 to $200,000 and a 93 per cent decrease in payment disputes.

Montu Tops LinkedIn Startups

Sydney, Sept 25: Montu, Australia’s largest healthtech company focused on alternative healthcare, has been ranked number one in LinkedIn Australia’s 2024 Top Startups list.
This marks Montu’s second appearance after placing fifth in 2023. The company, known for its telehealth clinic Alternaleaf and pharmacy solutions via Leafio, was also a founding member of Cannabis Council Australia.
Montu’s recognition follows its record-setting wins in Deloitte’s Tech Fast 50 in 2022 and 2023.
The LinkedIn list highlights 20 innovative Australian companies attracting top talent.

Korean Air Tops Premium Service

Seoul, Sept 26: Korean Air has been named the world’s best for business and first class for the second consecutive year in the 2024 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
The airline also ranked second for inflight food and moved up to fourth place for best cabin crew. Korean Air’s new Prestige Suites 2.0 and expanded meal options, including vegan dishes, have been praised for enhancing the passenger experience.
The airline also received top honors from Airline Ratings and Global Traveler earlier this year, further cementing its reputation for excellence.

Meatstock 2025 Returns

Sydney, Sept 25: Meatstock 2025 is back in Sydney from May 9 to 11, celebrating barbecue culture with live music, competitions, and fire-cooked cuisine.
The Jack Daniel’s stage will feature acts like Bliss n Eso, Illy, Furnace & The Fundamentals, and Bullhorn across three days. BBQ enthusiasts can watch international teams compete in the Heat Beads BBQ Wars, while the Butcher Wars, Dad Bod Contest, and Australia’s Strongest Man and Woman competitions add to the excitement.
The event also introduces Fire Kitchen, showcasing live fire cooking from top Pitmasters.
Tickets go on sale October 26, 2024, at 8AM.

PeopleUp Expands to Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 25: OSK Property has partnered with Singapore-based PeopleUp to introduce its first flagship family entertainment concept at Atria Shopping Gallery in Petaling Jaya, marking PeopleUp’s debut in Malaysia.
Scheduled to open in the first half of 2025, the new 60,000-square-foot destination will feature six key play areas, including kids and toddler play, sports activities, e-gaming, and a water park.
The collaboration, supported by Greenwillow Capital Management and Arkwood Trustee, will bring PeopleUp’s successful family entertainment concepts from Singapore to the Malaysian market.

KJTS Secures 20-Year Deal

Sydney, Sept 25: KJTS Group Berhad has secured a 20-year contract through its subsidiary, KJTN Engineering, with Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya in Thailand.
The agreement involves retrofit works, operation and maintenance of the chiller plant, and chilled water supply, valued at approximately RM 4.92 million.
This follows a previous 15-year deal with Central Group for Centara Grand Hotel in Bangkok.
The new project will begin in October 2024, with operations starting in June 2025. KJTS’s cooling energy segment continues to drive growth, contributing significantly to its RM3.5 million Q2 profit.

MR D.I.Y. Backs Local Brands

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 26: MR D.I.Y. is offering up to 20 per cent discounts on over 60 Malaysian-made products throughout September as part of its ‘Bersama Satu Beli Lokal’ initiative.
The initiative encourages Malaysians to support local brands while enjoying savings on everyday essentials such as hardware, household goods, and F&B items.
Participating brands include PYE, WAXCO, SEKOPLAS, ENVIRO, SUNRICH JAPE, SOFTLAN, and many others. For more information, visit MR D.I.Y.’s website or social media channels.

Zoho Upgrades Analytics Platform

Singapore, Sept 26: Zoho Corporation has launched a new version of Zoho Analytics, adding over 100 enhancements to its self-service BI and analytics platform.
The update introduces advanced AI and ML capabilities, including diagnostic insights, predictive analysis, and automated report generation.
It also features a custom ML model-building studio, seamless integration with Open AI, and expanded data management tools.
Zoho Analytics now offers more powerful, flexible, and accessible solutions for businesses of all sizes. The new version is available immediately, with pricing details on Zoho’s website.

GSC, Taylor’s Partner on Filmmaking

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 26: Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) and Taylor’s University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to nurture the next generation of filmmakers.
This partnership aims to equip Taylor’s University students with industry-relevant skills through mentorship sessions, workshops, internships, and opportunities to showcase their work.
The collaboration aligns with GSC’s ongoing #GSCKeepingitREEL initiative, which supports local talent through co-productions, investments, and events such as the Malaysia Animation Film Festival (MAFF).

CryptoKnights Secures $35M Investments

Singapore, Sept 26: CryptoKnights, dubbed the “Shark Tank of Crypto,” has completed its first season, securing over $35 million USD in investments across 15 blockchain-based projects. Created by Riaz Mehta, CEO of Ritestream, and Chief Strategist Joseph Khan, the show will premiere in December 2024. Hosted by actor Adrian Grenier, CryptoKnights features a panel of Web3 influencers, including Brock Pierce, Kyle Chassé, Aly Madhavji, Magnus Grimeland, and Nikita Sachdev. The series aims to make blockchain technology accessible to a mainstream audience while uncovering the next big innovations in the space.

Propel Global, CSCEC Collaboration

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 26: Propel Global Berhad has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CSCEC The Third Construction Engineering Company Ltd. of China Construction Second Engineering Bureau.
This collaboration aims to explore large-scale infrastructure projects in Malaysia, including data centers, telecommunication towers, and hospitals.
With CSCEC’s global expertise in construction, Propel Global seeks to strengthen its position in the infrastructure market, enhancing its capabilities for long-term growth in Malaysia’s oil and gas and construction sectors.

Hektar REIT Appoints CEO

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 26: Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd., the manager of Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (Hektar REIT), has appointed Zainal Iskandar Ismail as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, following approval from the Securities Commission Malaysia. Zainal brings over 20 years of experience across industries such as property, oil and gas, and telecommunications, previously serving as Group CEO of Perak Corporation Berhad. His leadership is expected to guide Hektar REIT into its next phase of growth and value creation for stakeholders.

Supermarket Concerns Rise

Sydney, Sept 26: The ACCC’s Interim Report for its Supermarkets Inquiry highlights growing concerns from both consumers and suppliers about the market power of Australia’s major supermarket chains. Woolworths and Coles dominate the market, accounting for 67 per cent of national retail sales, leading to concerns over price hikes and unfavourable supplier terms.
The report notes a 20 per cent increase in grocery prices over the past five years, with lower-income households particularly affected, spending more than 20 per cent of their income on groceries.
Suppliers also report facing unfair terms from supermarkets, including rebates for promotions and restrictive procurement practices.
The inquiry will examine whether supermarkets are using market power to raise retail prices or reduce supplier costs unnecessarily.
Public hearings are scheduled for November, and the final report is expected in February 2025.
Feedback on the Interim Report is invited by 18 October 2024, with more details available on the ACCC website.

Bintai Kinden Regularisation Plan

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 27: Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad (BKCB) has announced a Proposed Regularisation Plan to restructure its operations and strengthen its financial position as part of efforts to uplift its PN17 status.
The plan includes diversification into the construction sector, expected to contribute 25 per cent of net profits, a share capital reduction to cancel RM160 million of issued capital, and a private placement of 244 million new shares to raise RM19.5 million for working capital.
BKCB also plans to introduce an Employees’ Share Option Scheme (ESOS) and grant share options to Managing Director Datuk Tay Chor Han.
The proposal will be submitted to Bursa Malaysia for approval within a month.

Propel Global Acquires Stake

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 27: Propel Global Berhad has announced the acquisition of the remaining 39 per cent stake in Best Wide Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd (BWE) for RM6.19 million, increasing its ownership to 90 per cent.
The move, part of a strategic plan to strengthen its presence in the oil and gas sector, will enhance Propel’s capabilities in engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) services. Propel Global also proposed a private placement of up to 10 per cent of its issued shares to raise RM8.25 million for business expansion and working capital.
This acquisition positions Propel Global for further growth in Malaysia’s oil and gas sector.

Sony Announces Catchlight Winners

Sydney, Sept 28: Sony has revealed the winners of the 2024 Catchlight Film Festival, honoring filmmakers from Australia and New Zealand who used Sony cameras to tell their stories.
The festival, now in its fourth year, showcased remarkable talent across five categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Music Video, Student Fiction, and Cinematic Social.
The winning films include Die Bully Die by Nick & Nathan Lacey (Fiction), DAD by Jones Riley Eli (Non-Fiction), Queen of Sin by Cameron Zayec (Music Video), The Great South by Ormsby Taniora (Student Fiction), and Japan – Lost by Elliott Sauvage (Cinematic Social).
Special laurels were awarded for Best Cinematography in various categories, with For Joan by Micaela Osfield and Sing Sings – Keepers of the Culture by Arango Guerrero Mateo recognized for their outstanding lens work.
The winners were celebrated at the inaugural Scene Tradeshow in Sydney, a two-day event showcasing Sony’s latest products alongside masterclasses, talks, and film screenings.
The festival will return in 2025.