Singapore’s DBS has surpassed PETRONAS to become the most valuable brand in the ASEAN region, according to the Brand Finance ASEAN 500 2025 report. The bank’s brand value soared by 56% to reach US$17.2b, marking a significant milestone in the regional brand landscape.

Brand Finance, a leading brand valuation consultancy, highlighted that PETRONAS, despite falling to second place, maintains a strong AAA- rating and a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 83.7 out of 100. Meanwhile, Thailand’s PTT climbed to third place with an 11% increase in brand value, now standing at US$9.2 billion.

The report also noted Malaysia Airlines as the fastest-growing brand in the ASEAN region, with its brand value tripling to US$607m. Additionally, Vinpearl from Vietnam emerged as the strongest brand in the region, boasting a BSI of 97.5 out of 100 and an AAA+ rating.

These developments underscore the dynamic shifts within the ASEAN brand landscape, with DBS’s rise reflecting its robust market strategies and regional influence. As the region continues to evolve, these brands are setting benchmarks for growth and strength in their respective sectors.

The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) and the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) have unveiled the 2025 Islamic Finance Development Indicator (IFDI) report, which evaluates the Islamic finance industry’s progress across 140 countries. The report forecasts that global Islamic finance assets will soar to US$9.7 trillion by 2029, growing at an annual rate of 10%.

Malaysia has retained its top position in the global rankings, followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, thanks to their strong governance and policy innovation. Other countries in the top rankings include Indonesia, Pakistan, and Kuwait. Mustafa Adil, Head of Islamic Finance at LSEG, highlighted the industry’s future, stating, “The industry will be shaped by cross-border connectivity, regulatory advancements, and strategic national initiatives.”

The report also notes the resilience of the sukuk market, which surpassed US$1t in outstanding value in 2024. Total global sukuk issuance increased by 11% year-on-year, reaching US$254.3b. ESG sukuk, which integrates sustainability into Islamic finance, has also grown significantly, with US$15.4b in new issuances.

Islamic banking remains dominant, accounting for 72% of total industry assets and expanding to 84 markets globally. The largest markets—Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia—represent US$4.3t of global Islamic finance assets. Khalid Khalafalla, Acting CEO of ICD, remarked, “The IFDI continues to serve as a vital benchmark for policymakers and market participants.”

The IFDI assesses Islamic finance development across five areas: Financial Performance, Governance, Sustainability, Awareness, and Knowledge, providing a comprehensive view of the industry’s landscape.

Regency Specialist Hospital has launched Johor’s first Next-Gen Smart Ward, marking a significant advancement in patient care through the integration of advanced digital technology. Developed in collaboration with Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Lanseed Medical Group, and Origin Integrated Studios, the smart ward aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and personalisation in healthcare delivery.

The launch event, held on 11 October, also featured a Smart Hospital Forum, bringing together healthcare leaders, clinicians, and technology partners to discuss the future of digital healthcare in Malaysia. Serena Yong, CEO of Regency Specialist Hospital, highlighted the ward’s design, which balances efficiency and compassionate care, allowing healthcare teams to focus more on patient interaction.

Key features of the smart ward include a nurse dashboard, smart bedside terminals, and real-time monitoring systems. These innovations are expected to reduce manual data entry by 67%, improve response times by 16%, and enhance team communication. The smart ward also empowers patients by enabling them to request assistance and access their care plans directly from their bedside terminals.

This initiative is part of a strategic collaboration with Chang Gung Medical Foundation, known for its expertise in smart hospital innovations. The partnership underscores Regency Specialist Hospital’s commitment to setting new benchmarks in healthcare, combining global expertise with local innovation to deliver safer and more patient-centred services.

As the first of its kind in Johor, the Next-Gen Smart Ward represents a transformative step in healthcare, promising a more humane and meaningful patient experience.

The Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB) has unveiled FSF Xcel, Malaysia’s pioneering digital skills assessment platform for the financial sector. This initiative is designed to benchmark workforce capabilities and expedite upskilling, supporting Malaysia’s shift towards a more adaptive and sustainable financial ecosystem.

FSF Xcel builds on the Future Skills Framework (FSF) introduced in 2024, offering structured, industry-validated assessments. These assessments help financial institutions identify skill gaps, map learning and career pathways, and future-proof talent strategies. The platform covers 159 job roles and 157 critical skills, including both technical and behavioural competencies.

Developed in collaboration with Accendo Technologies, a Malaysian AI-powered talent intelligence company, FSF Xcel integrates global best practices with local expertise. This collaboration aims to strengthen Malaysia’s financial talent pipeline, aligning with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Sector Blueprint 2022–2026.

The financial sector, contributing an estimated 6.7% to Malaysia’s GDP in 2024 and employing nearly 167,000 professionals, remains vital to national economic growth. FSF Xcel accelerates the industry’s transition towards a digitally fluent, innovation-driven workforce. It offers real-time analytics and a common competency language to guide workforce planning and benchmark capabilities.

As Malaysia continues to evolve its financial sector, FSF Xcel is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the landscape of Islamic finance, as highlighted during the Global Islamic Finance Forum (GIFF) 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. The session, titled “Revolutionising Islamic Finance – Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence,” brought together industry leaders to discuss AI’s potential to enhance efficiency, uphold ethical standards, and broaden financial inclusion.

Moderated by Suhaimi Ali, Assistant Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia, the panel included Chris Skinner, CEO of The Finanser; Sami Aftab Mian, CEO of Blade Labs; Dr. Qasim Nasar-Ullah, Director of Arabesque SG Pte Ltd; and Goh Peng Ooi, Founder and Group Executive Chairman of Silverlake. Suhaimi noted that Malaysian financial institutions are increasingly using AI for customer analytics and fraud prevention, stressing the importance of maintaining ethical commitments.

Chris Skinner discussed the shift towards a data-centric model, where AI facilitates real-time decision-making and financial inclusion. He emphasised the synergy between AI and blockchain in ensuring transparency: “If I invest in a green sukuk bond, I should know that the money reached the project it was meant for.”

Sami Aftab Mian highlighted AI’s role in process automation and product innovation, stating, “The goal is not to replace human roles but to elevate them.” He stressed the need for AI to be grounded in Sharia-based principles to avoid becoming a “black box.”

Dr. Qasim Nasar-Ullah pointed out the importance of transparency in AI models, referencing regulatory frameworks like the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s FEAT principles. Goh Peng Ooi underscored data integrity, likening Islamic finance principles to AI’s reinforcement learning structures.

The session concluded with a call for collaboration among regulators, innovators, and scholars to ensure AI strengthens ethical finance. “AI can only strengthen the financial system if it serves humanity and upholds trust,” Suhaimi concluded.

Genting Berhad has announced plans to acquire the remaining 50.64% of Genting Malaysia for RM67b, equating to RM2.35 per share. The acquisition aims to secure a clear majority control, enabling Genting Berhad to better support Genting Malaysia’s bid for a New York casino licence. The purchase will be primarily funded by RM63b of new debt.

The move is significant as it positions Genting Berhad to potentially increase its influence and operational capabilities within the gaming sector. Should Genting Malaysia secure the New York casino licence, Genting Berhad’s leverage is expected to rise considerably due to the proposed $5.5b (RM23b) investment required for the project.

Shareholders of Genting Singapore could see indirect benefits if Genting Berhad decides to seek higher-than-expected dividends from Genting Singapore to assist in servicing the group’s debt. This strategic financial manoeuvre could impact the company’s overall financial health and shareholder returns.

DBS has maintained a “Hold” rating for Genting Singapore, with a target price of S$0.80, reflecting the potential indirect benefits and financial implications of the acquisition. The development underscores Genting Berhad’s strategic efforts to expand its footprint in the lucrative casino market, particularly in the US.

The acquisition and its implications will be closely watched by investors and industry analysts, as it could reshape the competitive landscape in the global gaming industry.

OpusSoft, a Kuala Lumpur-based startup, has launched OpusSoft 3.0, Malaysia’s first Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) journal management system. This new version, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, promises to streamline the entire journal publishing process, from submission to peer review to final publication, significantly reducing the time and effort required.

The latest release introduces four key features designed to address challenges in research publishing workflows. The Galley Proof feature automates journal-specific formatting in under 10 seconds, replacing a process that traditionally took days. An AI-powered Reviewer Recommendation Engine helps editorial boards identify high-calibre reviewers based on research expertise and collaboration history. The system is also integrated with Crossref, allowing for efficient Digital Object Identifier (DOI) registration and assignment. Additionally, the Web Publishing feature enables direct publication of papers with DOIs to journal websites with a single click.

Ramesh Balakrishnan, CEO of OpusSoft, stated, “Our enhanced OpusSoft platform, powered by AI and automation, streamlines the entire workflow of journal publishing. This improves efficiency and increases productivity of the journal editorial team.”

OpusSoft’s clients include prominent Malaysian journals and organisations such as the Malaysian Journal of Microbiology and the National Cancer Society of Malaysia. The company plans to expand regionally across Southeast Asia within the next 12 months, introducing multilingual capabilities and customisation options to meet diverse market needs.

With support from a grant by Cradle Fund, a Malaysian government agency, OpusSoft is poised to transform Malaysia’s publishing industry, enhancing the global visibility and impact of its research.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, inaugurated the Global Islamic Finance Forum (GIFF) 2025 in Kuala Lumpur on 13 October, as the Islamic finance industry targets US$7.5t in assets by 2028. The forum, organised by the Association of Islamic Banking and Financial Institutions Malaysia (AIBIM) with support from Bank Negara Malaysia, aims to advance business and empower communities through Islamic finance.

The opening session, titled “Unlocking the Power of Intra-OIC Investment,” highlighted the potential of Islamic finance to unify Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member nations, fostering trade, investment, and sustainable growth. Panellists included Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy for Financing Sustainable Development; Dr. Sami Al Suwailem, Acting Director General of the IsDB Institute; and Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Mohd Azmi Omar, President and CEO of INCEIF University.

Dr. Mohieldin emphasised the need for OIC countries to triple their efforts to achieve equitable growth, addressing a USD1 trillion funding gap for sustainable development. He advocated for regional solutions that localise finance and invest in human capital. Dr. Al Suwailem introduced a digital counter-trade platform initiative by the Islamic Development Bank Institute, leveraging fintech and blockchain to facilitate trade without hard currency.

Professor Omar highlighted Malaysia’s success in Islamic finance, stressing the importance of regulatory depth, talent development, and government commitment. He urged harmonised regulations and digital platforms to democratise access to Islamic investment instruments.

The session underscored the importance of human capital, trust, and regional cooperation for intra-OIC prosperity, with a focus on investing in the youthful population to drive innovation and economic growth. Dr. Mohieldin concluded by calling for improved data transparency and better communication of OIC countries’ economic strengths to global markets.

The M∙A∙C Clinic Publika officially opened its doors in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, with the ceremony officiated by Nancy Shukri, Malaysia’s Minister of Women, Family and Community Development. The event was attended by prominent figures from the local industry and community, marking a significant addition to the region’s healthcare landscape.

Located in the bustling area of Publika, the clinic is set to offer a range of health services aimed at improving community well-being. The opening of this clinic is seen as a step forward in providing accessible healthcare options to the residents of Kuala Lumpur. Nancy Shukri highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating that they play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for families and individuals in the area.

The launch of M∙A∙C Clinic Publika is part of a broader effort to expand healthcare services across Malaysia, addressing the growing demand for quality medical care. The clinic’s strategic location in Publika is expected to serve a diverse population, offering both general and specialised medical services.

As the healthcare sector continues to evolve, the opening of new facilities like M∙A∙C Clinic Publika underscores the commitment to meeting the needs of the community. This development is anticipated to contribute positively to the local healthcare infrastructure, providing residents with more options for their medical needs.

Malaysia is set to host the Kuala Lumpur Sustainability Summit (KLSS) 2025 from 14 to 16 October at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Organised by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability and the Ministry of Economy, the event aims to advance climate change action and sustainable development across Southeast Asia. The summit, led by the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation, will bring together more than 400 participants from government, business, academia, and civil society.

With the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” KLSS 2025 seeks to position Malaysia as a leader in promoting climate resilience and sustainable economic transformation. Acting Group CEO of the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation, Saiful Adib Abdul Munaff, emphasised the summit’s goal to transition from conceptual ideas to tangible implementation, stating, “We aim to transition from conceptual ideas to tangible implementation, from commitment to measurable outcomes.”

The summit will feature keynote addresses and dialogues with international figures, including Selwin Charles Hart, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action, and Robert Gass, UN Resident Coordinator for Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. Malaysian voices such as Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Plantation and Commodities, and Izlyn Ramli, CEO of Maybank Foundation, will also be highlighted.

A notable segment of the summit is the MGTC x Bloomberg Series, which will present research insights and panel discussions on sustainable finance and energy transition. The event will conclude with the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Climate Resilience, a commitment to accelerate climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia aims to amplify Southeast Asian voices in global climate action.