Industry News
Sandoz Malaysia disrupts NHL and RA treatment landscape
Sandoz Malaysia has partnered with Alpro Pharmacy to launch the first biosimilar treatment for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients in Malaysia. This strategic collaboration, formalised through a recent agreement, aims to improve patient access to affordable, quality treatment, particularly for those referred from government hospitals.
The integration of Sandoz biosimilars into Alpro Pharmacy’s OncoHelp Programme is set to broaden treatment pathways for NHL and RA patients. Christine Chong, Country Head of Sandoz Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, highlighted the importance of biosimilars in expanding access to proven treatment options, especially in oncology and chronic immune-related conditions. “In Malaysia, NHL is the eighth most common cancer, often requiring long-term and costly treatment,” she said. “This collaboration is crucial in providing more affordable treatment and continuous care support.”
Alpro Pharmacy’s OncoHelp Programme offers a comprehensive support service for cancer patients and their families, aiming to make cancer care more accessible and understandable. Joelle Wong Pei Sen, Alpro OncoHelp Programme Lead, emphasised the role of community pharmacies in patient support, stating, “Through OncoHelp, we provide counselling, medication guidance, and continuous care coordination.”
The initiative reflects a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare access and sustainability in Malaysia. It combines Sandoz’s expertise in biosimilars with Alpro Pharmacy’s extensive community network, supporting thousands of families nationwide. As Malaysia faces increasing challenges in managing cancer and chronic immune conditions, timely access to treatment remains critical.
MAG slashes CO₂ emissions by 103,000 tonnes
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has unveiled its 2025 Sustainability Report, detailing significant strides in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities. Released on 26 May 2026, the report reveals a reduction of 103,424 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions through enhanced fuel efficiency, achieving total fuel savings of 30,036 tonnes.
MAG’s fleet modernisation programme is a key component of its sustainability strategy, with the introduction of next-generation aircraft such as the A330neo and Boeing 737-8. These aircraft contribute to improved fuel performance and reduced emissions. Additionally, the proportion of MAG’s fleet meeting the stringent International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Chapter 14 noise standards increased from 8.6% in 2023 to 15.6% in 2025.
In a pioneering move, MAG completed its first pilot Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) uplift on the Kuala Lumpur–London route, in collaboration with PETRONAS. The group also implemented a 2% SAF uplift for flights departing from the UK and Europe, aligning with international regulatory requirements.
Philip See, MAG’s Group Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasised the importance of sustainability in the group’s Long-Term Business Plan 3.0, stating, “Sustainability remains a key enabler of our Long-Term Business Plan 3.0 (LTBP3.0), supporting our ambition to build a more resilient and future-ready aviation Group whilst progressing towards our long-term decarbonisation ambitions.”
Beyond environmental efforts, MAG has made notable progress in workforce diversity, with 51% of its over 1,000 new hires in 2025 being women. The group also launched initiatives to encourage female participation in aviation careers, reaching nearly 500 students nationwide.
MAG continues to foster partnerships and initiatives that support sustainability, digitalisation, and employee-led programmes, reinforcing its commitment to responsible growth and long-term value creation.
IHH Healthcare boosts dividend amid FY2025 gains
IHH Healthcare, a leading multinational healthcare provider, announced significant progress in its transformation journey during its 16th Annual General Meeting for the financial year ending 31 December 2025. Shareholders approved all 10 resolutions, including the re-election of directors and the re-appointment of KPMG as auditors.
The Group reported an 18% increase in core revenue to RM26.2b and a 14% rise in EBITDA to RM5.8b. Profit after tax and minority interests (PATMI), excluding exceptional items, grew by 3% to RM2.3b. This strong performance led to a higher total ordinary dividend of 10.5 sen per share for FY2025, up from 10.0 sen in FY2024, representing over 40% of PATMI.
IHH’s transformation initiatives include a cloud-based treasury management platform and an integrated enterprise system across finance, human resources, and procurement. These efforts aim to enhance process effectiveness and supply chain resilience, with rollouts beginning in Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong from Q4 2026.
The Group also achieved 14 out of 16 sustainability targets for 2025 and launched its 2030 sustainability goals, focusing on emissions reduction and resource management. Despite volatile macro conditions, IHH expects strong demand for quality healthcare and plans to expand its services in Malaysia, Singapore, India, and Türkiye.
With disciplined capital allocation and technology-driven productivity, IHH is on track to achieve a double-digit return on equity by 2028, delivering sustainable value for its stakeholders.
Allianz Malaysia profits defy challenging market
Allianz Malaysia Berhad has reported a robust start to 2026, with a 6.7% increase in total business volume, reaching RM1.63b in the first quarter. This growth was fuelled by both the general and life insurance segments, as Gross Written Premiums surged 13.7% to RM2.29b. The company’s operating profit remained stable at RM284.2m despite challenging market conditions.
The Motor, Bancassurance, and Employee Benefits sectors were key contributors to this growth, although all segments showed positive performance. Sean Wang, CEO of Allianz Malaysia, highlighted the company’s commitment to customer-centricity and technical excellence, stating, “We expect to see this momentum continue into the rest of the year, supported by our ability to navigate a dynamic environment whilst delivering sustainable results.”
Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad, a subsidiary, recorded a business volume of RM918.3m, marking a 6.5% increase from the previous year, primarily driven by the Motor business. However, operating profit for Allianz General decreased by 4.2% to RM154.2m due to higher insurance service expenses.
Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad, another subsidiary, reported a 23.2% increase in Annualised New Premiums to RM263.1m, with new business value rising 28.9% to RM124.1m. CEO Giulio Slavich noted the company’s focus on innovation and technology to enhance customer-focused solutions.
As Allianz Malaysia celebrates its 25th anniversary, the company remains committed to providing innovative solutions and maintaining its position as a trusted partner for Malaysians.
Malaysia Airlines hits 200th Boeing milestone
Malaysia Airlines has celebrated a major milestone with the delivery of its latest Boeing 737-8 aircraft, marking the 200th Boeing aircraft to join its fleet. Announced on 25 May 2026, this delivery underscores the Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) commitment to fleet modernisation and operational growth.
The newly delivered aircraft is the fourth Boeing 737-8 received by the airline this year. It is part of MAG’s ongoing strategy to expand its narrowbody fleet, with a total order of 55 Boeing narrowbody aircraft scheduled for delivery through to 2030. To date, the group has taken delivery of 18 Boeing 737-8s, enhancing efficiency, reliability, and network connectivity.
Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group CEO of MAG, remarked, “This delivery holds special significance as it marks the 200th Boeing aircraft to join the Malaysia Airlines fleet since 1972. More than just an addition to our fleet, this milestone reflects a long-standing operational history that has supported our capacity growth and fleet evolution over the decades.”
The aircraft, bearing registration number 9M-MVR, departed from Boeing’s Seattle Delivery Centre on 21 May 2026 and landed at KL International Airport on 24 May 2026 after a journey of 19 hours and 44 minutes. The Boeing 737-8 is pivotal in supporting MAG’s narrowbody operations, offering greater fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort.
As Malaysia Airlines continues to modernise its fleet, the introduction of these next-generation aircraft will bolster its ability to meet future growth opportunities and evolving market needs.
NTT DATA disrupts Malaysia’s foodservice inefficiencies
NTT DATA Payment Services and SECAI MARCHE have announced a strategic partnership to revolutionise Malaysia’s foodservice and hospitality industry. The collaboration will introduce an integrated platform designed to streamline procurement, invoicing, payment collection, and financial operations for Hotel, Restaurant, and Café (HORECA) businesses.
The initiative combines SECAI MARCHE’s fresh produce distribution platform with NTT DATA’s digital billing and payment capabilities under its global brand, ADAPTIS. This partnership aims to address the industry’s reliance on fragmented and manual processes, which often lead to inefficiencies and increased administrative burdens.
Scheduled for launch in July 2026, the service is expected to support approximately 400 producers and 2,400 HORECA businesses across Malaysia. “By combining SECAI MARCHE’s procurement and distribution capabilities with NTT DATA’s payment and receivables expertise, we aim to support the digital transformation of the foodservice and hospitality ecosystem,” said Shinichiro Nishikawa, Head of Global Payments and Services Division, Japan, NTT DATA.
Shusaku Hayakawa, CEO and Co-Founder of SECAI MARCHE, added, “Through this collaboration with NTT DATA, we look forward to helping businesses across Malaysia improve operational efficiency whilst creating a more connected, resilient, and sustainable supply chain.”
Looking ahead, the partnership plans to expand its digital financial services, including supply chain financing and alternative payment solutions like Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL). This expansion aims to enhance access to financing and support sustainable growth within Malaysia’s foodservice and hospitality sectors, with potential future expansion into the broader Southeast Asian market.
BPMB commits RM700m to support local businesses in export expansion
Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad Group (BPMB Group) has unveiled over RM700m in initiatives under its BizConnect with Exporters Programme, in collaboration with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). This effort is designed to enhance Malaysia’s export ecosystem and support local businesses in expanding internationally.
The BizConnect programme, which aligns with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Performance Measurement Framework, aims to bolster business resilience, increase export participation, and promote sustainable economic growth. BPMB Group stated that these initiatives are part of a broader RM9 billion strategic plan under the National Budget 2026. The programme offers a combination of financing, advisory services, and strategic partnerships to help Malaysian companies scale regionally and globally.
Following a successful pilot in Kuala Lumpur with 30 companies, BizConnect plans to engage nearly 100 businesses across key economic hubs, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. The initiative supports national priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan, the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, and the National Energy Transition Roadmap, aligning with the MADANI Economic Framework.
Participating companies will receive comprehensive support, including tailored financing solutions, export advisory services, and capacity-building programmes. The programme also offers specific solutions such as the Jaguh Serantau Programme for Bumiputera SMEs and the Business Exports Programme, which provides export facilitation grants.
By bridging access to capital, expertise, and strategic networks, BizConnect aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Malaysian businesses, contributing to the nation’s economic resilience.
Ibraco revenue drops as profit holds steady in Q1 FY26
Sarawak-based developer Ibraco Berhad has announced a net profit of RM13.3m for the first quarter of the financial year 2026, ending 31 March. Despite a decline in overall revenue to RM160.9m from RM184.1m in the same period last year, the company achieved a 9.3% year-on-year increase in gross profit, reaching RM40.8m.
The property development segment emerged as the largest revenue contributor, growing by 28.2% year-on-year to RM81.8m, which accounted for 50.8% of the group’s turnover. Meanwhile, the construction segment, although experiencing a decline, contributed RM67.5m, representing 42% of total revenue. The manufacturing segment saw a significant rise of 92.6% in revenue to RM5.2m.
Group Managing Director Chew Chiaw Han commented, “We started 2026 with a resilient set of results, driven by steady progress across our key developments and improved margins from our property development segment.”
Ibraco’s ongoing projects include the NorthBank township in Sarawak and Arden City in Kota Samarahan, both of which are progressing on schedule. The company is also focusing on expanding its presence in West Malaysia with the Residensi NewUrban development in Petaling Jaya.
Looking ahead, Ibraco aims for a balanced revenue contribution between its construction and property development segments. Key projects such as the Second Trunk Road Package A1A and the Kuching Urban Transportation System Blue Line Package 1 are expected to bolster future earnings and enhance the company’s competitive edge in securing public infrastructure contracts.
Express Powerr delivers RM2.4m profit for Q1 FY26
Express Powerr Solutions (M) Bhd has announced a net profit of RM2.4m for the first quarter of the financial year 2026, ending 31 March. Despite a decrease in revenue to RM12.8m from RM15.2m in the previous quarter, the company achieved an 8.6% increase in gross profit, reaching RM7.4m, due to improved cost management.
The generator rental services division was the primary revenue driver, contributing RM12.6m, whilst the solar photovoltaic solutions segment added RM0.2m. Managing Director Lim Cheng Ten highlighted the company’s strategic growth, stating, “We started the year on a positive note, delivering stronger profitability through disciplined cost management and operational improvements.”
Express Powerr has secured four Letters of Award worth RM13.0m for a public infrastructure project in Sarawak and has entered a joint cooperation agreement for a 15-megawatt power generation project in Indonesia. The company has expanded its fleet by 46 units, totalling 161 generators, to support this growth.
The Board of Directors declared a first interim dividend of 0.1 sen per share, equating to RM0.9m, aligning with their policy to distribute 30% to 50% of profit after tax. As of 31 March, the company maintained a strong net cash position with RM14.5m in cash and equivalents, surpassing its total borrowings of RM9m. Lim concluded by emphasising the company’s focus on cost optimisation and disciplined project execution amidst potential global challenges.
Capri by Fraser challenges Penang’s hotel market
Frasers Hospitality has announced the soft opening of Capri by Fraser in Penang, marking the brand’s debut in the Malaysian city. Situated at 31 Jalan Magazine, near George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 22-storey property introduces a design-led social living concept to the culturally rich area. The Chief Operating Officer of Frasers Hospitality, Chew Hang Song, highlighted Penang’s unique blend of heritage, art, and gastronomy as a fitting backdrop for the Capri by Fraser brand.
The property offers 248 rooms and residences, catering to modern travellers with amenities such as in-room drip coffee, IPTV with Google Cast, and digital concierge access. Select accommodations also feature bathtubs and separate living and dining areas. The Den, the hotel’s social space, serves as a hub for check-ins and casual gatherings, whilst the Grab & Go counter, in collaboration with Norm Micro Roastery, offers gourmet pastries and artisanal coffee.
Capri by Fraser, Penang, also boasts a pet-friendly environment with a swimming pool, gymnasium, and EV charging stations. Architect Lian Kian Lek has integrated the heritage and modern elements of the building, ensuring a coherent visual narrative throughout. The hotel’s art collection, featuring works from six commissioned artists, reflects Penang’s cultural identity.
The opening coincides with the conclusion of the Capri by Fraser Takes Flight campaign, which celebrated Penang’s cultural motifs and offered participants a chance to win a stay at the new property. Guests can enjoy an opening special of 25% off the best available rates, inclusive of breakfast.
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