Malaysia has expanded its deployment of BlackBerry’s secure communications solutions for the 46th and 47th ASEAN Summits, enhancing mobile command and control capabilities. The 47th Summit, scheduled from 26 to 28 October in Kuala Lumpur, will see the use of BlackBerry AtHoc and BlackBerry SecuSUITE to secure interagency coordination and protect sensitive communications.

The ASEAN Summits, coordinated by Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the ASEAN Main Logistics Secretariat (SILA), involve over 500 meetings and thousands of personnel. Following a successful deployment at the 46th Summit, SILA has increased its use of BlackBerry’s platform to safeguard operations against advanced signal intelligence threats.

BlackBerry AtHoc, a critical event management platform, enables real-time mobile coordination, whilst BlackBerry SecuSUITE provides military-grade secure voice and messaging solutions. Raja Saifful Ridzuwan Raja Kamaruddin, Head of SILA, noted that “around 80% of our interagency communications are secured” with BlackBerry, ensuring the safety of heads of state and officials.

John Giamatteo, CEO of BlackBerry, highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in secure communications, stating, “BlackBerry is honoured to support SILA and the Government of Malaysia with advanced military-grade solutions.”

During the 46th Summit, 100 liaison officers used BlackBerry AtHoc for secure alerts and coordination. The 47th Summit will expand this to 150 officers, all equipped with AtHoc and SecuSUITE on iOS and Android devices, ensuring secure communication with delegations and reducing device needs.

The technology mirrors standards used in the 2018 and 2025 G7 Summits, setting a benchmark for operational resilience and interagency collaboration.

Astern Technologies has launched AI BESS 360, Malaysia’s first AI-enabled home energy solution, at an event on 21 October 2025. The innovative system combines solar panels, a hybrid inverter, battery storage, and an intelligent management platform to help homeowners reduce energy costs, manage power usage, and provide backup during outages.

The AI BESS 360 is a significant step in line with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap, aiming to promote sustainable and energy-independent living. Astern Technologies, a leader in clean-energy solutions, specialises in rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and AI-enabled battery storage, reinforcing its commitment to advancing the nation’s energy transition.

According to Leng Rong Chen, Managing Director of Astern Technologies, the AI BESS 360 empowers homeowners by offering a comprehensive solution that not only cuts down on energy bills but also ensures a reliable power supply during outages. This launch marks a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s journey towards sustainable energy solutions.

The AI BESS 360’s intelligent management platform allows users to optimise their energy consumption, making it a practical choice for those looking to embrace clean energy. As Malaysia continues to push for greener energy solutions, the introduction of AI BESS 360 is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of home energy management.

Astern Technologies’ latest offering underscores its dedication to fostering a sustainable energy landscape in Malaysia, paving the way for more innovative solutions in the future.

Shopee, a prominent e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Brazil, has teamed up with Meta to launch a suite of tools aimed at simplifying product discovery on Facebook and facilitating direct purchases through Shopee. This collaboration introduces a streamlined approach to affiliate marketing and enhances Facebook Live with Collaborative Ads.

The partnership allows creators with affiliate accounts to use Facebook Affiliate Partnerships, a dashboard that links their Facebook and affiliate accounts. This enables creators to tag products in posts and Reels, allowing shoppers to complete purchases directly on the affiliate partner’s site. Shopee is the first partner for this initiative, empowering creators to monetise content and connect brands with new customers.

Peggy Zhu, Head of Brand and Growth Marketing at Shopee, stated, “Shopee is committed to strengthening our ecosystem and improving the e-commerce experience. This includes helping brands and sellers expand their reach whilst creating new opportunities for affiliates to thrive and be creative.”

The collaboration also benefits creators through the Shopee Affiliate Programme, offering higher commissions, free product samples, and product sponsorships. Shopee supports affiliates with bootcamps and events to enhance their content creation skills.

Additionally, brands and sellers can maximise Facebook Live by integrating Collaborative Ads, allowing seamless product showcasing and checkout on Shopee. This feature is currently being piloted in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Damian Kim, APAC Director of Monetisation at Meta, commented, “With these product updates, Meta is demonstrating how we’re evolving to meet changing consumer behaviours in the region.”

The new tools are available in several countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Brazil, marking a significant step in the evolving digital shopping landscape.

Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, has launched Partner Apps, enabling users in Singapore and Malaysia to access third-party services directly within the Grab app. This new feature allows users to enjoy a seamless experience with secure payments and no need for additional downloads, whilst earning GrabRewards Points with every transaction.

The initial rollout includes five services: Jolibox, Firsty, HelloRide, redBus, and Drive lah, with plans to expand further. Philipp Kandal, Chief Product Officer at Grab, highlighted the benefits, stating, “With Partner Apps available natively within Grab’s app, users will get more out of using Grab than ever.” This integration aims to enhance user convenience by offering a variety of services, from telecommunications to transport, all in one place.

Partner Apps not only expand Grab’s service offerings but also provide businesses access to Grab’s 46 million monthly users. This collaboration allows brands to leverage Grab’s platform for greater reach across Southeast Asia. Users can look forward to more brands joining the Partner Apps line-up in the coming months.

The initiative reflects Grab’s commitment to enhancing its ecosystem, which already spans deliveries, mobility, and digital financial services across eight countries. By integrating Partner Apps, Grab aims to meet everyday needs more effectively, offering users a comprehensive and rewarding app experience.

Fiuu, a leading fintech platform in Southeast Asia, has teamed up with Pos Malaysia and Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) to launch a cashless solution for cash-on-delivery (COD) payments in Malaysia. Utilising Fiuu’s payment platform and PayNet’s DuitNow QR, the initiative aims to streamline COD transactions, offering a secure and seamless payment experience for customers across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.

The new system allows customers to pay for deliveries by scanning a QR code on their smartphones, eliminating the need for cash and enhancing transaction speed and security. This development aligns with Malaysia’s national agenda to foster a cashless society, as highlighted in the recent Budget 2026 announcement.

DuitNow QR, Malaysia’s national QR standard developed by PayNet, will enable over 6,000 Pos Malaysia riders to collect payments digitally. This advancement addresses operational challenges such as manual cash handling and insufficient change, whilst also supporting cross-border transactions with compatibility for e-wallets like Alipay+ and Weixin Pay.

Pos Malaysia, which delivers over 30 million parcels annually, and Fiuu have significantly improved the delivery experience by integrating DuitNow QR. This partnership not only modernises the parcel and payments ecosystem but also sets new standards for efficiency and trust.

Eng Sheng Guan, CEO of Fiuu, stated, “This is more than just a payment solution, it’s a significant step toward reshaping the future of the e-commerce industry.” Charles Brewer, Group CEO of Pos Malaysia, added that the initiative reflects Pos Malaysia’s commitment to innovation and digitalisation. Gary Yeoh, Chief Marketing Officer of PayNet, emphasised the partnership’s role in advancing Malaysia towards a cashless society.

Hyatt Hotels and Resorts has unveiled its “More to Discover, Explore Malaysia” campaign, encouraging travellers to explore 11 unique properties across Malaysia’s vibrant cities and scenic coastal areas. Running from 9 September to 31 October 2025, the campaign offers guests who book directly on Hyatt.com a complimentary breakfast for stays from 10 September to 20 December 2025. World of Hyatt members can enjoy additional savings and receive a limited-edition Touch ‘n Go card for seamless travel.

The campaign highlights Hyatt’s diverse offerings, from the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur to the serene shores of Kuantan and the adventurous landscapes of Kota Kinabalu. Participating hotels include the newly opened Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown, and Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, among others.

“More to Discover, Explore Malaysia” aims to provide memorable stays, with guests starting their day with a hearty breakfast before exploring local surroundings. The Touch ‘n Go card facilitates transport, dining, and convenience purchases, enhancing the travel experience.

Hyatt’s initiative is rooted in local culture and a passion for travel, positioning its hotels as launchpads for rediscovering Malaysia. Each stay promises a unique way to experience the country’s vibrant culture and natural beauty in modern comfort. Non-World of Hyatt members must use offer code HTBVA, whilst members can use code MYHIPO for added benefits.

Selgate Corporation has inaugurated its first flagship private healthcare facility, Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang, in the Central Region of Selangor. The hospital, which opened on 21 October 2025, is part of Selgate’s vision to provide high-quality, compassionate healthcare to local communities. The opening day featured free health screenings and a cupcake giveaway to celebrate the milestone.

Located strategically in Rawang, the 224-bed hospital offers a wide range of medical and surgical specialities, including orthopaedics, cardiology, and advanced diagnostic services. The facility is designed to bridge the gap between tertiary hospitals and local clinics, providing personalised care with a focus on community well-being. “The opening of Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang marks more than just a milestone — it represents our commitment to redefining how healthcare is experienced in Malaysia,” said Miranda Harumal, CEO of Selgate Group of Hospitals.

The hospital is part of Selgate’s broader plan to expand its healthcare network, with additional facilities in Sepang and Setia Alam set to open in 2026. Selgate’s digital innovation, particularly through the Selangkah app, enhances patient experience by integrating digital services from registration to billing. The hospital also engages with the community through initiatives like sponsoring the upcoming Rawang Marathon.

Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang is expected to set a benchmark for future facilities, aiming to deliver accessible and compassionate healthcare across Selangor.

Trinasolar, a global leader in photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mestron Energy, a Malaysian renewable power generation specialist, to support Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap. Under the agreement, Trinasolar will supply 50 megawatts (MW) of its Vertex N solar modules to bolster Mestron’s renewable energy projects across the country.

This collaboration aims to enhance Malaysia’s sustainability efforts by integrating Trinasolar’s advanced solar technology with Mestron Energy’s local expertise in renewable energy deployment. Ku Jun Heong, Vice President of Trinasolar’s Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa region, stated, “We’re pleased to partner with Mestron Energy to deliver advanced, cost-effective solar solutions that support Malaysia’s clean-energy ambitions.”

Mestron Energy, part of the Mestron Holdings Berhad group, is well-positioned to expand its renewable portfolio with Trinasolar’s cutting-edge technologies. Por Teong Eng, Managing Director of Mestron Energy, remarked, “Partnering with Trinasolar presents an excellent opportunity to support Malaysia’s and ASEAN’s renewable energy development. We believe that solar installations will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help create a sustainable future.”

The partnership underscores the increasing demand for corporate renewable energy solutions in Malaysia and highlights the potential of the ASEAN region as a hub for clean energy development. As Malaysia continues its transition towards a low-carbon economy, this collaboration between Trinasolar and Mestron Energy is set to play a pivotal role in achieving the nation’s sustainability goals.

The ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), in collaboration with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), has launched the ASEAN BUILT Platform to mobilise investment in sustainable buildings. Unveiled at the 25th ASEAN Energy Business Forum in Kuala Lumpur on 17 October 2025, this initiative seeks to address the region’s growing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

The platform, developed under the Asia Low Carbon Buildings Transition Project and funded by Germany’s International Climate Initiative, serves as a one-stop shop for unlocking investment in sustainable buildings. It offers tools such as a project database, a low carbon calculator, investment matchmaking, and a knowledge-sharing hub. These features aim to connect stakeholders and provide data-driven insights to facilitate investment in energy-efficient solutions.

Buildings currently account for 22% of ASEAN’s energy consumption, a figure expected to rise by 56% by 2050. The ASEAN BUILT Platform is integral to the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation 2026–2030, which targets a 40% reduction in energy intensity by 2030. Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director of ACE, stated, “This platform helps close the investment gap by connecting project developers with investors, accelerating the flow of capital towards energy-efficient solutions.”

The initiative is expected to develop a pipeline of bankable projects over the next two years, aiming to evolve into a self-sustaining ecosystem by 2028. This launch underscores ASEAN’s commitment to meeting its energy and climate goals, signalling readiness to mobilise green investment at scale.

Malaysia and Singapore have announced the development of two new interconnections to facilitate cross-border electricity trade. This initiative, revealed on 17 October, aims to enhance energy security and sustainability for both nations. The interconnections will allow for the exchange of up to 100 megawatts of electricity, significantly increasing the capacity for energy trade between the two countries.

The new infrastructure is expected to be operational by 2025, marking a significant step in regional energy cooperation. The interconnections will not only bolster energy security but also support Singapore’s transition towards a low-carbon energy future. By integrating more renewable energy sources, both countries aim to reduce their carbon footprints and contribute to regional sustainability goals.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Trade and Industry highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “These interconnections will enhance the resilience of our power systems and support our climate change commitments.”

The project underscores the growing trend of regional collaboration in energy markets, as countries seek to optimise resources and improve energy efficiency. The increased capacity for electricity trade is expected to provide economic benefits, including potential cost savings for consumers and businesses.

As the project progresses, both governments will continue to work closely to ensure the successful implementation and operation of the interconnections. This collaboration sets a precedent for future cross-border energy projects in Southeast Asia, promoting a more integrated and sustainable energy landscape.