AnyMind Group has announced the addition of six macro-influencers to its exclusive creator roster for Instagram and TikTok in Malaysia, bringing the total to nearly 100. The new influencers, including Amni Rashidi, Alia, Hana Nabilah, Alia Izzaty, Nor Hazira, and Muhammad Ezzriq, are expected to bolster the company’s social commerce capabilities by integrating their high-reach profiles into AnyMind’s ecosystem.

The expansion aims to enable brands to deploy data-driven affiliate strategies, turning multi-platform engagement into measurable sales performance. Marketers can track campaign metrics through AnyMind’s AnyTag platform, which also provides influencers with tools to grow their presence and maximise reach. This integration is part of AnyMind’s strategy to create a robust influencer ecosystem that bridges creative content with social commerce.

The newly signed influencers have a strong presence across TikTok and Instagram, specialising in niches such as beauty, fashion, travel, and family content. They bring established audience trust and category expertise, offering immediate impact for brands. For instance, Amni Rashidi has collaborated with brands like YSL and Shopee, whilst Alia has worked with skincare brands such as Cetaphil.

Nor Hazira expressed enthusiasm about joining AnyMind’s network, stating, “I’m so happy to be part of AnyMind Group’s creator network! For me, this is a great opportunity to keep growing as a content creator whilst working with brands that fit my style and audience.”

Lee Chin Chuan, Country Manager for Malaysia, highlighted the significance of this expansion, noting that it marks a milestone as the exclusive creator pool nears the triple-digit mark. He emphasised the company’s commitment to enabling brands to deploy fully trackable, full-funnel affiliate strategies that translate into scalable sales performance.

This development is further supported by AnyMind’s role as an official Shopee MCN programme partner in Malaysia, providing brands with streamlined access to exclusive affiliate traffic boosts and commission rewards.

HLB Private Bank, in partnership with Gaia Investment Partners, has unveiled new private market investment vehicles aimed at enhancing client portfolios with higher returns and reduced volatility. Announced at the Private Markets Summit 2026 in Singapore, the launch includes the Global Private Equity Fund-of-Funds II and the Private Markets Evergreen Income Fund, targeting accredited investors.

The global private market sector has seen substantial growth, expanding from US$1t in the 1990s to approximately US$10t today. This growth is projected to reach US$25t by 2030, with private assets already accounting for 10% of global GDP. As public market correlations tighten, HLB Private Bank’s new offerings aim to optimise portfolios by shifting asset allocations.

The Global Private Equity Fund-of-Funds II focuses on long-term capital growth, targeting a mid-teens Net Internal Rate of Return (IRR) through diversification across Mid-Market Buyouts, Co-Investments, Secondaries, and Growth Equity. Meanwhile, the Private Markets Evergreen Income Fund aims for an 8–10% annual return with a 6–8% cash yield, diversifying across US and EU senior direct lending, infrastructure credit, real estate credit, and intellectual property royalties.

Jeffrey Yap, HLB’s Managing Director and Regional Head of Wealth Management, emphasised the significance of these offerings: “Private markets have matured far beyond standalone, tactical allocations, now forming an essential core portfolio building block. By partnering with Gaia, we are moving away from rigid, single-strategy constraints to offer true institutional-grade, multi-sleeve vehicles.”

These developments mark a significant step in providing institutional-grade investment opportunities to a broader range of investors.

BMW Group Malaysia has announced the appointment of Raymond Tan Chor Ann as its new Managing Director, effective from 1 September 2026. Tan, a seasoned leader with extensive experience within the BMW Group, will succeed Benjamin Nagel, who will transition to Managing Director of BMW Group Importer Markets for Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao.

Tan’s career with BMW Group began in 2003 as a Product and Price Planning Manager in Malaysia. His journey has seen him take on various leadership roles, including Regional Product Manager at BMW’s Munich headquarters and Head of Marketing in Malaysia. His return marks a significant homecoming, as he becomes the first Malaysian to lead BMW Group Malaysia.

In his new role, Tan will focus on enhancing customer experience and advancing premium mobility. He aims to strengthen BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad’s market positions in Malaysia through strategies like “Technology Openness” and “Power of Choice”. Tan expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am excited to lead BMW Group Malaysia as we introduce the Neue Klasse models, marking a new era.”

Nagel, with over 20 years of international leadership experience, will bring his expertise to his new role overseeing the Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao markets. He has been instrumental in navigating BMW Group Malaysia through transformative periods, focusing on electrification and digitalisation.

Ritu Chandy, Senior Vice President of Sales for Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, praised Tan’s appointment, highlighting his international experience and understanding of strategic business areas. Chandy also acknowledged Nagel’s contributions and wished him success in his new position.

CIMB Bank Berhad has unveiled CIMB Private Wealth, a new segment aimed at affluent clients across ASEAN, offering tailored financial solutions and exclusive experiences. This initiative, announced on 20 July 2026, seeks to address the evolving needs of high-net-worth individuals and business clients in the region.

CIMB Private Wealth combines institutional financial solutions with bespoke advisory services to support clients in achieving growth, wealth preservation, and legacy planning. The offering is part of CIMB’s Forward30 ambition, designed to cater to the complex wealth management needs of today’s affluent clients. Haniz Nazlan, CEO of Group Consumer Banking at CIMB Group, highlighted the importance of trusted partnerships in navigating the complexities of wealth management, stating, “We are seeing a great rewiring of wealth, especially in the ASEAN region.”

The ASEAN economy, valued at $4t, is experiencing significant growth, with affluent households expected to increase by 5% to 6% annually. CIMB Private Wealth aims to leverage this growth by providing clients with access to a comprehensive ecosystem of investment, lending, and protection products, alongside wealth advisory services.

Clients will benefit from regional recognition and privileges, supported by CIMB’s robust commercial and wholesale banking solutions. The service also includes personalised advice from senior relationship managers and investment advisers, backed by CIMB’s Chief Investment Office.

CIMB’s initiative reflects the growing demand for sophisticated wealth management solutions in ASEAN, positioning the bank as a key player in the region’s financial landscape.

Malaysia has been named the world’s leading Muslim-friendly destination in the Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025. This accolade highlights Malaysia’s appeal to travellers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) seeking halal-friendly travel experiences, cultural immersion, and family-friendly holidays.

Malaysia’s extensive halal dining options, widespread prayer facilities, and world-class tourism infrastructure make it a preferred destination for GCC travellers. Beyond its Muslim-friendly credentials, Malaysia invites visitors to explore its diverse regions through a vibrant calendar of cultural festivals and unique local experiences.

This summer, travellers can explore Sarawak’s pristine rainforests and indigenous communities. From 24–26 July, the Pesta Nukenan (Bario Food Festival) will celebrate the traditions of the Kelabit Highlands, offering local cuisine, cultural performances, and hospitality.

For those interested in arts and heritage, Penang’s George Town Festival, from 2–10 August, offers visual arts, music, theatre, and cultural performances in a UNESCO World Heritage city. Known for its multicultural heritage and gastronomy, Penang provides an enriching experience for GCC visitors.

In conjunction with Citrawarna 2026, from 24–26 July at Dataran Merdeka, over 40 hotels in the Klang Valley and selected states are offering exclusive promotions to encourage travel. These include attractive room rates and bundled packages available from mid-July to mid-August 2026.

Faharuddin Hatmin, Director of Tourism Malaysia Dubai, stated, “Malaysia’s recognition reflects our commitment to providing seamless, welcoming, and enriching travel experiences for GCC visitors.” Malaysia continues to offer diverse experiences, from cultural festivals to pristine nature, making it an ideal year-round destination.

Sunway Malls has announced the launch of Malaysia’s first smart malls, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technology across its portfolio. This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency and provide a seamless shopping experience by reducing reliance on manual processes.

Following the successful IoT integration at Sunway Pyramid in 2021 and its implementation at Sunway Square, the smart initiative will now be rolled out in phases across all Sunway Malls. The transformation includes practical digital features and technical improvements, with an integrated IoT network connecting all operations into a unified management system.

The smart malls feature a range of innovations designed to streamline operations and improve customer convenience. These include smart management systems that drive sustainability and operational efficiency, a centralised Integrated Operating Centre in Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, and 5G connectivity to support IoT devices and real-time monitoring.

Additional features include smart toilets with automated sensors, smart escalators with predictive maintenance alerts, and AI-powered CCTV systems for enhanced security. Retail operations technology centralises maintenance management, whilst automated marketing systems manage digital screens across the malls.

Sunway Malls has also launched a video showcasing the smart malls concept, illustrating how these innovations create a more convenient shopping experience. This development marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Malaysia is poised to become one of Southeast Asia’s largest data centre hubs by 2030, with plans to nearly triple its capacity, according to a report by S&P Global Ratings. The country’s strategic location near Singapore, coupled with strong connectivity and increasing power and water capacity, positions it favourably despite rising costs and stricter regulatory approvals.

The report highlights that Malaysia’s data centre sector is transitioning from rapid expansion to a sustainable growth model. This shift allows the country to expand its necessary resources, aiming to support the burgeoning demand for data centres. Spencer Ng, a credit analyst at S&P Global Ratings, noted, “Malaysia is slowing down to get ahead in data centres. This will buy the country time as it expands the necessary power and water resources.”

However, the report warns of potential execution risks, with data centres expected to account for over 30% of Malaysia’s electricity demand by 2035. Delays in power or water infrastructure could hinder growth. Additionally, the financing needs for this expansion are significant, with an estimated $20b required for powered shell and equipment over the next three years.

Despite these challenges, Malaysia’s strategic advantages remain intact. Yijing Ng, another analyst at S&P Global Ratings, stated, “The country’s draw remains intact—its strategic location, cost efficiency relative to Singapore, and land availability.”

Looking ahead, Malaysia’s supportive government policies, such as the “Green Lane Pathway” to expedite power approvals, are expected to further bolster the data centre sector. As Malaysia navigates these challenges, its position as a key player in the region’s data centre landscape appears promising.

Hong Leong Bank has introduced Malaysia’s first Visa Infinite Privilege credit card, marking a significant milestone in the country’s financial services sector. The card, announced on 17 July 2026, is available strictly by invitation and is designed to cater to the sophisticated needs of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).

Crafted from exclusive materials, the card serves as a symbol of achievement and is part of Hong Leong Bank’s strategic transformation plan, which focuses on wealth management as a key growth area. Andrew Jong, Managing Director of Personal Financial Services at Hong Leong Bank, stated, “Our transformation plan is built on anticipating where the future of banking is headed, and wealth management sits at the very heart of that growth strategy.”

The Visa Infinite Privilege card offers a bespoke ecosystem of global privileges, including access to elite private members’ clubs, exclusive culinary experiences, and tailored wellness retreats. This aligns with the demands of the new generation of UHNWIs, who seek sophisticated, borderless solutions that complement their multifaceted lifestyles.

By expanding its wealth proposition, Hong Leong Bank aims to capture the evolving wealth flows across Asia, transforming traditional asset management into a vibrant, holistic ecosystem for a modern global clientele. The card’s launch positions the bank to better serve the needs of its high-net-worth clients, offering them unparalleled lifestyle curation and financial prowess.

Malaysian travellers are increasingly opting for alternative Asian city breaks and regional escapes, according to recent data from digital travel platform Agoda. Between 1 January and 31 May 2026, searches for accommodation in destinations such as Busan, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Batam Island, Lombok, Surabaya, and Ho Chi Minh City surged, indicating a shift away from traditional favourites for stays between 20 June and 31 August 2026.

Agoda’s data highlights a notable trend: whilst major capitals like Tokyo and Seoul continue to attract interest, with Tokyo searches up 24% and Seoul up 7% year-on-year, other cities are seeing even more significant growth. Fukuoka and Sapporo in Japan experienced increases of 91% and 63% respectively, whilst Busan in South Korea saw a 104% rise. This suggests that Malaysian travellers are keen to explore beyond the usual tourist routes.

In Indonesia, the trend is similar, with Jakarta searches up 71%, Batam Island 69%, Surabaya 45%, Lombok 39%, Medan 34%, and Yogyakarta 26%. Other Asian cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Shenzhen, Manila, and Da Nang also reported increased interest from Malaysian tourists.

Fabian Teja, Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei at Agoda, noted, “The surge in searches for places like Busan, Fukuoka, and Lombok tells us that Malaysian travellers are making more deliberate choices, moving past travel hotspots to find better value and newer experiences within the same regions they already love.”

Agoda’s extensive range of accommodation options and competitive deals are facilitating this shift, offering travellers a variety of choices to suit different styles and budgets. The platform’s mobile app and website provide access to over 6 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, making travel planning seamless.

Malaysia has solidified its position in the regional bioeconomy sector by formalising three strategic collaborations with Taiwan, valued at approximately RM7m. These agreements were announced at the Malaysia Regional Collaboration Forum, part of the BIO Asia–Taiwan 2026 event.

The Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation (Bioeconomy Corporation), under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, spearheaded the initiative to enhance technology exchange and cross-border business opportunities. The collaborations focus on insect technology, advanced biochar-based materials, and bird’s nest-based biotechnology products.

One notable agreement involves Fly Technology Agriculture Sdn Bhd and Taiwan’s Monster Biotech Co., Ltd., focusing on Black Soldier Fly-based animal feed and fertiliser. Another agreement between MCHAR Sdn Bhd and TCHAR Co., Ltd. involves the purchase of biochar and plans for a manufacturing plant in Malaysia. Glyken Bio Products Sdn Bhd also partnered with Taiwan Bansho Co., Ltd. to expand its bird’s nest-based biotechnology products in Taiwan.

Bioeconomy Corporation CEO Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak highlighted the importance of these collaborations in diversifying supply networks and creating new business opportunities across Asia. He stated, “These strategic collaborations with Taiwan demonstrate how regional bioeconomy partnerships can diversify supply networks, strengthen food and industrial resilience, also create new business opportunities across Asia.”

The BIO Asia–Taiwan 2026 event, held from 15–19 July, serves as a platform for Malaysian companies to engage with global industry leaders and investors, showcasing Malaysia’s capabilities in biotechnology innovation and commercialisation.