Powerwell Holdings Berhad has announced its financial results for the first half of the financial year 2026, ending 30 September 2025, revealing a significant 64.8% year-on-year increase in revenue to RM75.1m. The company’s net profit surged 2.6 times to RM9.4m, marking its best-ever performance for the period. This growth was attributed to higher deliveries in Malaysia and increased contributions from international markets, including Bangladesh and Indonesia.

The group’s second-quarter revenue rose by 35.1% year-on-year to RM39.2m, bolstered by contributions from newly acquired fire suppression systems subsidiaries. Powerwell’s gross profit margin also improved to 31.2% from 18.3% a year ago, reflecting more efficient operations and higher-margin projects.

Catherine Wong Yoke Yen, Managing Director of Powerwell, expressed optimism about the company’s future, citing favourable industry conditions and Malaysia’s economic growth. “We are pleased to have kept up the healthy earnings growth momentum and delivered our best-ever first half performance,” she said. The company has secured a RM9.5m data centre project in Selangor, its third data centre win this financial year.

Powerwell’s order book stood at RM105m as of 30 September 2025, excluding the recent contract, providing strong earnings visibility. The company declared a first interim dividend of 0.5 sen per ordinary share, amounting to RM2.9m. Looking ahead, Powerwell anticipates further growth from the renewable energy, data centre, and infrastructure sectors, supported by a 20% expansion of its assembly lines at the Kota Kemuning plant.

Singapore-based Precious Medical Group has announced the launch of the Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Centre and Hospital in Johor Bahru, a significant $106m (RM500m) investment aimed at enhancing cancer care in Malaysia. The facility, set to open on 5 December 2025, will feature state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies, including a PET-CT and radiotherapy centre.

The centre will house Malaysia’s first cyclotron outside the Klang Valley, enabling local production of medical radioisotopes for cancer imaging and therapy. This advancement is expected to improve early detection and treatment availability whilst reducing reliance on distant supply chains. The project is strategically located at Larkin Sentral within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), facilitating cross-border medical collaboration and talent mobility.

The development is projected to create approximately 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to the economic goals of the JS-SEZ. Following the cancer centre’s inauguration, Precious Medical Group plans to develop a 200-bed hospital on the same site, offering comprehensive inpatient oncology and integrated support services.

Named after the late Tunku Abdul Jalil, the fourth child of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim of Johor, the hospital aims to strengthen Malaysia’s healthcare system, which already attracts over 1.5 million medical tourists annually. This initiative is poised to bolster the international reputation of Malaysia’s healthcare sector, enhancing its capacity and resilience.

Malaysian businesses are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, with 87% using data analytics tools and 85% having adopted AI. However, a mere 18% have fully integrated cybersecurity into their operational strategies, significantly below the survey average of 28%, as revealed by CPA Australia’s latest Business Technology Survey. This gap leaves many businesses vulnerable to digital threats.

The survey highlights that 17% of Malaysian businesses only react to cyber threats as they occur, and 19% are unaware or unsure of their employer’s cybersecurity management. Priya Terumalay, CPA Australia’s Regional Head for Southeast Asia, emphasised the need for businesses to embed robust cybersecurity processes into their core strategies to protect digital assets amidst the rise of AI-generated scams and phishing attacks.

Despite the strong uptake of AI tools, deep integration into business operations remains low at 11%, compared to the survey average of 16%. Most businesses use AI tools occasionally, relying on readily available options like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Those that have integrated AI report benefits such as increased productivity and improved accuracy in repetitive tasks.

Barriers to technology adoption include high implementation costs, limited technology literacy among senior management, and tech talent shortages. Priya noted that strengthening the technology capabilities of senior leadership is crucial for Malaysia to maintain its competitive edge in digital maturity.

The Malaysian government aims to position the country as an AI-driven economy, with the AI Technology Action Plan 2026–2030 set to be tabled in December. As AI continues to transform industries, businesses must balance technological advancements with human expertise to fully realise AI’s potential.

Allianz Malaysia Berhad has announced the appointment of Giulio Slavich as the new Chief Executive Officer of its life insurance subsidiary, Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad, effective 1 January 2026. Slavich will succeed Charles Ong, who is retiring on 31 December 2025 after more than 30 years in the insurance industry.

Slavich joined Allianz Malaysia as Chief Financial Officer in 2022, where he successfully led financial reporting and sustainability initiatives, including the implementation of IFRS 9 and 17. He also spearheaded the company’s agency transformation programme. Before his tenure at Allianz Malaysia, Slavich was the Global Head of the Centre for Competence for Life & Health at Allianz SE Group and led the Life segment in Allianz Italy.

Sean Wang, CEO of Allianz Malaysia, expressed confidence in Slavich’s leadership, stating, “Giulio brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with 25 years of experience in the insurance industry. His career reflects a deep understanding of global insurance dynamics and adaptability across large insurance groups.”

Anusha Thavarajah, Regional CEO of Allianz Asia Pacific, highlighted the significance of Slavich’s appointment, noting, “Giulio’s appointment reflects our strong talent pipeline and commitment to developing leaders who will lead, shape the industry, and drive long-term, sustainable growth.”

The transition marks a new chapter for Allianz Life, as the company continues to build on its strong foundation in Malaysia. Charles Ong’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing a resilient business, and he will continue to contribute in an advisory role.

AEON Bank and Zurich Malaysia have expanded their collaboration to provide affordable Takaful protection through the AEON Bank app. The partnership introduces two micro-Takaful plans—Personal Accident Takaful and Term Takaful—designed for Malaysians aged 18 to 59. These plans, starting at RM5 and RM18 per month respectively, offer a fully digital enrolment process, making Shariah-compliant coverage more accessible.

The initiative, launched on 29 October 2025, builds on a partnership established in May 2024. It aims to meet modern consumers’ demands for security and convenience by integrating essential protection plans into the digital banking ecosystem. AEON Bank’s CEO, Raja Datin Paduka Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz, emphasised the importance of providing affordable protection seamlessly through the app, which customers already use for daily financial activities.

Zurich Malaysia’s Country CEO, Junior Cho, highlighted the collaboration’s role in making ethical and inclusive protection accessible. “This partnership harmonises AEON Bank’s digital innovation and Zurich’s global protection expertise,” he stated, noting Zurich’s 150-year history of providing reliable protection solutions.

The Personal Accident Takaful plan covers total permanent disablement or accidental death, with coverage options up to RM80,000. The Term Takaful plan offers broader protection, including death or total permanent disability from all causes, with coverage up to RM80,000. Both plans are available 24/7 via the AEON Bank app, ensuring easy management and enrolment.

Looking ahead, AEON Bank and Zurich Malaysia plan to continue developing inclusive Takaful solutions to cater to the fast-paced digital lifestyles of Malaysians.

Semico Capital Berhad has entered into an underwriting agreement with Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad for its forthcoming initial public offering (IPO) on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. The IPO will see the issuance of 92.7 million new shares, representing 25.7% of the company’s enlarged share capital, alongside an offer for sale of 18 million existing shares, accounting for 5%.

The distribution of the 92.7 million new shares includes 18 million shares available to the Malaysian public via balloting, 15 million shares allocated to eligible directors, employees, and business associates, and 59.7 million shares offered through private placement to selected investors. The 18 million existing shares will also be available via private placement.

Affin Hwang has agreed to underwrite 33 million shares for the Malaysian public and the Pink Form Allocation. Semico Capital, known for its family entertainment products and services, operates a family entertainment centre in Selangor and distributes toys and collectables across Malaysia. It holds exclusive distributorships for brands like Superwing and Dreamfuns.

Executive Director and CEO Tai Lee Chuen stated, “The signing of this underwriting agreement with Affin Hwang marks an important milestone for Semico Capital as we progress towards our ACE Market listing on Bursa Securities.”

The company aims to strengthen its market position and expand its offerings. The listing is expected by January 2026, with Affin Hwang serving as the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Sole Placement Agent, and Sole Underwriter.

Monash University Malaysia has become the first university worldwide to join the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Global Innovation Partnership. Announced on 25 November 2025, this collaboration aims to address complex humanitarian issues by combining the university’s research expertise with the IFRC’s extensive humanitarian experience.

The partnership was unveiled at the IFRC Global Innovation Partnership Launch held at Monash University Malaysia. The event, officiated by Her Highness Dato’ Seri DiRaja Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz, National Chairperson of the Malaysian Red Crescent, gathered representatives from humanitarian organisations, government agencies, NGOs, and academic partners for discussions, workshops, and exhibitions.

Monash University Malaysia’s President and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, expressed the significance of the collaboration, stating, “We are honoured to be the first university to join the IFRC Global Innovation Partnership. This collaboration allows us to combine our research and academic expertise with IFRC’s humanitarian experience, tackling some of the most complex challenges faced by communities today.”

The partnership will focus on developing programmes that enhance digital and leadership capabilities within humanitarian organisations, empower students and volunteers through experiential learning, and accelerate the creation of innovative products and services. This initiative aligns with Monash University Malaysia’s commitment to driving meaningful change across ASEAN and beyond, reinforcing its position as a regional hub for research and capacity building in humanitarian innovation.

Allianz Malaysia Berhad has announced a strong financial performance for the third quarter ending 30 September 2025, with insurance revenue reaching RM1.58b, a 10% increase from the previous year. This growth was attributed to higher revenue from both the general and life insurance segments. Profit Before Tax (PBT) also saw a significant rise, climbing 21.8% to RM298.6m compared to the same period in 2024.

The general insurance arm, Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad, contributed RM911.9m to the quarter’s revenue, marking a 10.3% increase from the previous year. The segment’s Gross Written Premiums (GWP) for the year-to-date rose to RM2.80b, up 9.1% from the previous year, maintaining its market leadership with a 15.3% share.

Meanwhile, Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad reported a 9.6% increase in insurance revenue to RM672.5m for the quarter. The life insurance segment’s GWP for the year-to-date reached RM3.08b, a 4.5% increase from the previous year, with Annualised New Premiums (ANP) rising by 5.8% to RM680m.

Sean Wang, CEO of Allianz Malaysia, highlighted the company’s strategic focus on sustainable growth and service enhancement, stating, “Allianz Malaysia’s performance in the third quarter this year reflects our strength, adaptability and dedication to excellence.”

Overall, Allianz Malaysia’s total assets as of 30 September 2025 amounted to RM30b, up from RM28.49b at the end of 2024. The company remains optimistic about concluding the year on a strong note, driven by its strategic initiatives and market leadership.

CGS International Securities Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (CGS MY) has announced significant leadership changes effective 1 January 2026. Current Deputy Chief Executive Officers Khairi Shahrin Arief bin Baki and Alan Inn Wei Loon will step into the roles of CEO and Country Head, respectively. This transition follows the retirement of current CEO Azizah Mohd Yatim, who will step down at the end of this year.

The leadership change is part of CGS MY’s strategy to strengthen its governance and expand its services both within Malaysia and across Asia. The company aims to maintain its position as the top broker on Bursa Malaysia whilst growing its investment banking, wealth, and asset management businesses.

Carol Fong, Group CEO of CGS International Securities Pte. Ltd., expressed gratitude for Azizah’s contributions since 2023, highlighting achievements such as maintaining the No.1 broker ranking on Bursa Malaysia and achieving a trading value exceeding MYR 120 billion by October 2025. Azizah’s tenure also saw the introduction of market-first financial products and a broadened service portfolio.

Khairi, the incoming CEO, emphasised the importance of governance excellence and strategic leadership, aiming to leverage CGS MY’s strengths in regional and global markets. Alan, the new Country Head, highlighted the company’s strong China heritage as a key asset in fostering cross-border collaborations.

The appointments are expected to bolster CGS MY’s position as a leading investment house in Asia, with a focus on expanding its influence in the China and ASEAN regions.

UK-based pyrolysis company Onnu has partnered with Agrotech Bioenergy to convert agricultural residues in Malaysia into renewable energy, high-grade biochar, and verified carbon credits. The collaboration, which began operations last week in Sabah, utilises Onnu’s proprietary CarboFlow technology to process plantation residues like palm trunk and bamboo, marking a significant advancement in sustainable biomass utilisation.

Onnu’s CarboFlow technology is designed to make biomass projects viable and scalable, addressing industry challenges such as high costs and long lead times. “CarboFlow is engineered for scalability and commercial viability,” said Giles Welch, CEO of Onnu. The system is priced at two-thirds of traditional systems, can be manufactured 4.5 times faster, and achieves payback in as little as three years.

The project in Sabah will process approximately 41,820 tonnes of wet biomass annually, producing 1,924 tonnes of biochar and generating 2,800 kW of renewable heat. It is expected to deliver 3,937 carbon credits each year, verified under the Puro.earth standard. The initiative has been independently evaluated by BeZero, a leading carbon rating agency.

Agrotech Bioenergy plans to expand the use of CarboFlow technology across plantations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia over the next five years. This expansion aims to sequester 360,000 tonnes of CO₂e annually and produce 180,000 tonnes of biochar. The energy generated will power a torrefaction plant to produce black pellets, displacing coal in power generation and reducing global carbon emissions by 1.3 million tonnes of CO₂e annually.