Sarawak’s Role as the New Energy Hub in ASEAN Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, announced that Malaysia’s ambition to position Sarawak as a regional energy hub will be a key agenda in tomorrow’s meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. This initiative, spearheaded by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, is expected to strengthen the state’s role in the...

Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) Sparks Fresh Concerns in Penang The proposed Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) highway in Penang has reignited debates among activists and environmentalists, who warn that its construction could hinder the success of the state’s planned Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. The highway, initially approved in 2019 but delayed due to funding challenges, may now receive federal funding under...

Ringgit Shows Positive Trajectory Backed by Economic Strength The ringgit is demonstrating a positive outlook, reflecting Malaysia’s strong economic fundamentals and promising growth prospects for the next several years, according to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour. Speaking at the Malaysia Economic Forum (FEM) 2025, the governor emphasized that the ringgit is...

UK Introduces Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Malaysians As of today, Malaysians traveling to the United Kingdom will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), according to a reminder from the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. What is the ETA? The ETA is a digital travel permission for visitors from visa-free countries like Malaysia, who are entering the UK for...

Iconic Marjorie Hotel: A New Benchmark for Penang’s Hospitality Iconic Penang Sdn Bhd (Iconic Group) has unveiled its latest luxury addition, the Iconic Marjorie Hotel, a Marriott International Tribute Portfolio property, in Sungai Nibong, Bayan Lepas. Soft-launched on Dec 28, 2024, this RM180 million development is the first hotel in Penang to achieve the Green Building Index (GBI) rating, setting new...

MCMC and Melaka Government Collaborate on Digital Transformation The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has formalized a strategic partnership with the Melaka government through the Kampung Digital Melaka (KDM) Initiative, marking a significant step toward digital transformation in Malaysia. The initiative aims to equip all premises in Melaka with a complete and systematic address...

Kuala Lumpur-Singapore HSR: A Private Sector Opportunity The much-anticipated Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project may see a revival, but only with full participation from the private sector, said Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Speaking at a joint press conference with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Anwar emphasized that the government is prioritizing...

Johor-Singapore SEZ: A Vision for Regional Growth The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is set to be a transformative initiative, boosting economic activity, creating jobs, and strengthening ties between Malaysia and Singapore. However, while the potential is immense, economists stress the importance of clear tax incentives and robust infrastructure to attract investors. Key Economic...

Competitive Pressures in Johor's Data Centre Sector The Malaysian data centre market, especially in key hubs like Johor, is experiencing intense competition, potentially sidelining smaller players with limited resources. According to BMI, a unit of Fitch Group, financial capabilities are crucial for success as larger players consolidate their presence in favourable locations. Johor: Malaysia's...

Johor-Singapore SEZ: A Milestone for Regional Economic Integration The signing of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) agreement on Tuesday heralds a transformative chapter in Malaysia’s collaborative efforts to drive regional economic development. This landmark agreement is expected to position Johor as a premier hub for high-tech industries, green technology, and advanced manufacturing...