Industry News

Lion Group, encompassing Batik Air Indonesia, Batik Air Malaysia, and Thai Lion Air, is set to bolster its presence at Singapore’s Changi Airport by relocating to Terminal 4 from November 2025. This strategic move will support the airline’s expansion plans, including new flights to Ipoh, Penang, and Subang, starting December 2025. Currently, Lion Group operates 88 weekly services connecting Singapore to five cities across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

The relocation to Terminal 4, which can handle up to 16 million passenger movements annually, aims to accommodate Lion Group’s growth and rising air travel demand in the region. The terminal offers a high degree of automation and a variety of retail and dining options, enhancing the passenger experience. Changi Airport Group (CAG) is collaborating with Lion Group to integrate its airlines into FAST, a suite of automated self-service options.

Changi Airport Group’s Executive Vice President, Lim Ching Kiat, expressed enthusiasm for the new services, stating, “With this, services from Singapore to Malaysia will reach over 460 weekly departing flights, entrenching Malaysia’s position as one of Changi’s top markets.”

Lion Group’s President Director, Capt. Daniel Putut, highlighted the benefits of the move, saying, “This move enables Batik Air to better connect Indonesia and Singapore, two important gateways in the region.”

The expansion aligns with Lion Group’s long-term vision to grow alongside customer needs, offering more routes and strengthening regional connectivity. The new routes will also support the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, providing seamless onward connections via Kuala Lumpur to over 63 destinations across 20 countries.

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach recently hosted the “Journey to the Sea” event, releasing rehabilitated green sea turtles into the wild. This event, held from 6 to 8 September, was a collaboration with the Royal Thai Navy, the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, and the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, showcasing the resort’s commitment to conservation under Marriott’s Serve 360 initiative.

The turtles, named by guests as King Julian, Mr Turtle Junior, Flipper, Timmy, and Chokdee, were released at Merlin Beach, marking their first return to the ocean. The journey began in the Similan Islands, where rising sea levels threatened over 80% of turtle nests. The Royal Thai Navy rescued the eggs, which were then incubated at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre. After 10 months of care at the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, the turtles were ready for release.

Trevor May, Multi-Property General Manager, stated, “This successful event shows the positive impact we can have when we come together.” The event included an Ocean Scavenger Hunt, where winners named the turtles, and an educational session with WildAid on the global 30×30 conservation initiative.

As the International Day of Peace approaches on 21 September, the release of these turtles symbolises peace and resilience. The event is part of Marriott’s global Serve 360 project, aiming to create sustainable impacts and protect marine life. The resort’s Merlin House Reef Educational Centre further underscores this commitment.

Brookfield, a global investment firm, has partnered with Malaysian clean energy company Solarvest Holdings Bhd to develop over 1.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar and battery storage projects in Malaysia. This collaboration marks Brookfield’s inaugural investment in Malaysia through its Catalytic Transition Fund, which focuses on decarbonisation in emerging markets.

The decision to invest in Malaysia is driven by the country’s robust renewable energy market, supported by strong demand and favourable policies. Daniel Cheng, Brookfield’s Head of Renewable Power & Transition for Asia Pacific, highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in clean energy, noting the country’s role as a hub for data centres and semiconductor manufacturing. “Brookfield is committed to deploying significant capital into Malaysia,” Cheng stated, emphasising the alignment of market fundamentals with Brookfield’s capabilities.

Solarvest, with a track record of over 2.3 GW of solar photovoltaic projects in Malaysia, will leverage its local expertise, whilst Brookfield will provide large-scale capital and operational capabilities. Solarvest’s CEO, Dato’ Davis Chong, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating it will drive Malaysia’s decarbonisation agenda and expand Solarvest’s regional footprint.

This partnership is expected to significantly contribute to Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap, advancing clean energy adoption and supporting the region’s journey towards carbon neutrality.

Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) has introduced the Golden Hands for Golden Care programme, a new initiative designed to enhance access to crucial surgical and medical procedures for seniors in Malaysia. Running from 10 September to 10 November 2025, the programme targets self-paying patients aged 60 and above, aiming to improve their mobility, independence, and quality of life through timely medical interventions.

The programme not only covers surgical treatments but also provides medical support for post-stroke recovery, focusing on restoring motor function, speech, and cognitive abilities. This dual approach is intended to alleviate the burden on families and empower seniors to remain active within their communities. “Timely surgery can significantly alter the outcomes for many elderly patients,” said Dr Wee Tong Ming, SMCV’s Medical Director. “Early intervention can lead to safer, quicker recoveries and a higher likelihood of maintaining independence.”

Malaysia is experiencing a demographic shift towards an ageing population, with projections indicating that by 2030, seniors will comprise 15.3% of the population. This shift is expected to increase the incidence of non-communicable diseases, placing additional pressure on the healthcare system. SMCV’s initiative seeks to address these challenges by making essential surgical procedures more accessible to seniors, thereby reducing the strain on carers and the healthcare system.

A team from Monash University Malaysia has clinched the prestigious Universities for Goal 13 competition, organised by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network in partnership with Siemens Energy. The team’s project, “Turning algae into the future of a clean industry,” demonstrates how microalgae can capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources whilst producing high-value products for food, energy, and pharmaceuticals.

Led by Associate Professor Saman Ilankoon, the team included PhD scholars Shafeeq Ahmed Syed Ali, Manuja Dayanath, and Lourdes Loh Ye Shing Morgan. Their proposal outperformed entries from other top universities, including University College London and Tsinghua University. The project was awarded during the SDSN’s 25th Leadership Council Meeting in New York.

The innovative concept utilises microalgae photobioreactors to convert carbon dioxide from industrial flue gases into valuable biomass. Simulated pilot studies showed the system could capture 85 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually and generate 5 tonnes of biomass, with a payback period of just two years. This process also produces natural pigments, biofertilisers, and clean energy, contributing to circular economy models.

Shafeeq Ahmed Syed Ali expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Monash University Malaysia on a global stage, whilst Manuja Dayanath highlighted the recognition’s impact on his PhD research. Lourdes Loh Ye Shing noted the valuable mentorship from Siemens Energy, which provided a multidisciplinary perspective.

The project is part of the Centre for Net-Zero Technology at Monash University Malaysia, which aims to pioneer net-zero innovation in ASEAN. The team will receive a $10,000 cash prize and international networking opportunities to further their project.

Nvsion, a Malaysian AI startup specialising in high-precision inspection technology for the semiconductor industry, has successfully secured a multi-million Ringgit investment from the Cambrian Fund. This marks the inaugural deal for the Cambrian Fund, managed by Southern Capital Group, with key investors including Khazanah Nasional and ViTrox Corporation Berhad co-founders. The funding aims to advance Nvsion’s AI-powered Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) solutions, crucial for enhancing precision and efficiency in semiconductor manufacturing.

Founded in October 2024 by Jeffrey Chung and his team, Nvsion leverages over 30 years of combined technical expertise to develop its proprietary Synthia Vision AI Platform. This platform uses a hybrid of AI and rule-based algorithms for high-speed industrial applications, targeting the outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) and electronics manufacturing services (EMS) segments. The company also plans to extend its technology to other sectors, including advanced electronics, automotive, and medical devices.

The new capital will be used to accelerate product development, recruit top-tier talent, and expand Nvsion’s customer base. “Securing this first round of funding is a defining moment for Nvsion,” said Jeffrey Chung, Managing Director of Nvsion. “With Cambrian Fund’s support, we are confident in our ability to deliver greater innovation and contribute to Malaysia’s emergence as a leader in advanced manufacturing.”

Kenneth Tan, CEO of Southern Capital Group, expressed confidence in Nvsion’s potential, stating, “Nvsion’s advanced, software-first approach to machine vision is set to make a significant impact in the Industrial 4.0 landscape.” The investment aligns with Cambrian Fund’s strategy to support technology companies in Southeast Asia with a clear path to market leadership.

MARC Ratings Berhad has been awarded the title of Best Islamic Rating Agency 2025 at the 15th Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) held in Kuala Lumpur. The event, attended by over 400 guests including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, celebrated the achievements of more than 60 winners globally. This marks the 11th time MARC Ratings has received this accolade, highlighting its consistent excellence in the Islamic finance sector.

The award underscores MARC Ratings’ dedication to providing high-quality ratings that enhance transparency and confidence in Islamic finance. Arshad Mohamed Ismail, Group CEO of MARC and CEO of MARC Ratings Berhad, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “The team is honoured by this recognition and grateful to the GIFA Awards Committee for acknowledging its work.” He emphasised the company’s commitment to delivering accurate and timely ratings that support the growth and resilience of Islamic finance.

MARC Ratings’ contribution to the Islamic finance ecosystem is significant, particularly as the industry expands into new markets and adopts more complex structures. Reliable credit ratings are crucial in promoting transparency and facilitating investment. Through its focus on analytical excellence and innovation, MARC Ratings continues to support issuers, investors, and regulators, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a global centre for Islamic finance.

Established in 1996, Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad (MARC) has grown to include subsidiaries offering diverse services, from ratings to ESG assessments. The group remains committed to its transformation journey, embracing technology and agility to adapt to the evolving business landscape.

Hongkong Land Holdings Limited has announced the divestment of its Singaporean and Malaysian residential development business, MCL Land, to Sunway Group. The transaction, valued at S$739m (US$579m), is part of Hongkong Land’s strategy to recycle capital and focus on ultra-premium commercial properties in Asian gateway cities. The sale proceeds will enhance Hongkong Land’s balance sheet and contribute US$150m to its share buyback programme.

The divestment marks a significant step in Hongkong Land’s strategic vision to exit the residential build-to-sell segment.

MCL Land, a prominent residential developer in Singapore and Malaysia for over 60 years, will continue its operations under Sunway’s ownership, with its management team remaining intact.

Michael Smith, Hongkong Land’s Chief Executive, highlighted the importance of finding the right steward for MCL Land, stating, “This is a business Hongkong Land has grown for over thirty years, with a strong brand known for quality and a robust residential development pipeline.” Sunway Group’s Executive Deputy Chair, Sarena Cheah, expressed confidence in the acquisition, noting, “This acquisition marks a decisive expansion of our footprint in one of Asia’s most competitive property markets.”

The agreement’s completion is subject to standard closing conditions and is expected to finalise before the end of 2025. This transaction aligns with Sunway’s strategy to integrate MCL Land’s expertise with its own in sustainable, mixed-use developments, aiming to accelerate growth in Singapore and key regional markets.

Zurich Malaysia has unveiled Z-Driver EV Protect, a specialised insurance and takaful package for electric vehicle (EV) owners, offering coverage for EV batteries, home wall chargers, and portable charging accessories. Priced at $25 (RM120), this add-on aims to address the unique risks associated with EVs, enhancing existing Z-Driver features like unlimited towing for battery depletion.

The initiative is part of Zurich Malaysia’s collaboration with Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd to bolster Malaysia’s EV infrastructure. This partnership has expanded Zurich’s brand presence to 13 EV charging stations at high-traffic locations such as Suria KLCC and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Teresa Wong, Chief Risk Officer at Zurich Malaysia, stated, “Our collaboration with Gentari is not just about increasing the number of chargers, it’s about helping to build a more connected and confident EV ecosystem.”

Key benefits of Z-Driver EV Protect include coverage for home wall chargers up to $3,100 (RM15,000), personal liability whilst charging up to $10,400 (RM50,000), and a compassionate allowance for incidents at public charging stations up to $4,200 (RM20,000). Optional enhanced special perils protection is also available.

Aliah Nasreen Abdullah, Chief Customer Officer of Gentari Green Mobility, highlighted the importance of the collaboration, saying, “Together, we’re expanding the availability of EV chargers and enhancing the entire ownership experience.”

This move supports Zurich Malaysia’s goal of promoting sustainable mobility by addressing the need for reliable EV charging infrastructure, thus encouraging more Malaysians to adopt electric vehicles.

The Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia (PPIM) has raised alarms over counterfeit health products being sold online with fraudulent halal certificates. Nadzim Johan, Chief Activist of PPIM, urged authorities to take swift action against the companies involved, warning that these illegal practices could jeopardise public health and undermine the confidence of Muslims in Malaysia regarding syariah compliance.

PPIM, in collaboration with Holista Colltech, has reported the sale of counterfeit PRISTIN Omega-3 fish oil products on popular e-commerce platforms Lazada and Shopee. Holista, a leading Omega-3 supplement provider in Malaysia, discovered that the counterfeit products contained low-grade palm oil instead of fish-derived Omega-3. The company has filed a police report with the Royal Malaysia Police following independent laboratory tests.

Nadzim emphasised that genuine Holista products are available only through licensed pharmacies and official online stores. He expressed concern over the rapid growth of e-commerce in Malaysia, fearing that other counterfeit cases might go undetected. He highlighted three critical issues: the misuse of halal certification undermines trust, counterfeit products evade regulatory oversight, and violations could severely impact syariah-compliant businesses.

PPIM has called on the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia to investigate the e-commerce platforms and identify those responsible. Nadzim also urged industry players, including pharmacy chains and the Malaysian Dietary Supplement Association, to address consumer concerns, particularly among Muslims.