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Industry News

Building & Engineering

SSBB wins RM47.5m data centre contract

Southern Score Builders Berhad (SSBB), an integrated engineering specialist, has secured a RM47.5m subcontract through its 51%-owned subsidiary, SJEE Engineering Sdn. Bhd. The project involves the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of electrical, ELV, telco, and security works for a data centre. This contract, awarded by a local construction company, is expected to be completed by March 2027, positively impacting SSBB’s earnings from FY26 onwards.

Gan Yee Hin, Executive Director and CEO of SSBB, expressed satisfaction with the contract, stating, “Fresh from securing our largest-ever M&E contract, we are pleased to receive the continued trust of a returning client with this latest data centre job.” He highlighted the strong relationships and execution quality that the M&E division has built over the years, reinforcing SJEE’s reputation in the high-tech and data centre sectors.

This latest win brings SSBB’s total contract value for FY26 to RM456.1m, providing clear earnings visibility for the coming years. The company is actively pursuing opportunities in the data centre sector, with a promising tender pipeline. SSBB is also investing in strengthening its M&E team to support ongoing growth.

SSBB, listed on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia since November 2022, has evolved from a construction management specialist to an integrated engineering firm. It operates across construction, M&E, and specialised engineering solutions, leveraging over 30 years of industry experience.


Telecom & Internet

TeleChoice revenue surges 31% amid market challenges

TeleChoice International Limited has reported a robust start to the financial year 2026, with a 31% increase in revenue for the first quarter ending 31 March 2026. The Group’s revenue reached S$146.86m, up from S$111.8m in the same period last year. Profit before tax also saw a substantial rise, increasing by 78% to S$2.32m compared to S$1.3m in Q1 2025.

The Personal Communications Solutions Services (PCS) division was a major contributor, with revenue climbing 24% to S$101.13m and profit before tax surging 87% to S$2.09m. The division’s success was largely driven by its Malaysian operations, which benefited from a renewed fourth-party logistics contract with U Mobile Sdn Bhd. However, the Singapore operations faced challenges due to lower margins and increased marketing expenses.

The Info-Communications Technology Services (ICT) division reported a 79% revenue increase to S$27.09m, with a modest 20% rise in profit before tax. This growth was primarily attributed to the Digital Infrastructure business, which secured significant projects across various sectors, including a S$8m storage leasing arrangement with a financial institution.

Meanwhile, the Network Engineering Services (NES) division achieved a 22% revenue increase to S$18.64m, with profit before tax rising by 31%. The division’s Indonesian operations were pivotal, securing a S$24m order for coolant distribution units.

Looking ahead, TeleChoice anticipates stable business performance for FY2026, supported by ongoing demand in telecommunications and ICT sectors. The Group is also awaiting the outcome of a tender for a data centre project in Malaysia, which could further enhance its performance.


Energy & Offshore

TotalEnergies secures funding for 30 MWac solar project

TotalEnergies, in collaboration with MK Land Holdings Berhad, has reached financial close and commenced construction on a 30 MWac solar power plant in Kulim, Kedah. The project, awarded by the Malaysian Energy Commission in August 2023 under the Corporate Green Power Programme, is set to begin operations in Q3 2027.

The solar farm will feature approximately 80,000 photovoltaic panels across 115 acres and will include a new 132 kV loop-in-loop-out substation to enhance Malaysia’s grid network. The entire output of around 1.5 TWh of electricity will be sold under 21-year Power Purchase Agreements to major technology and industrial players, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable energy.

Gregory Thomassin, Head of Business Development, Renewables APAC at TotalEnergies, stated, “We are pleased to reach this new milestone for our solar project in Malaysia. By leveraging our extensive upstream footprint in the country and our upcoming 50/50 joint venture with Masdar in Asia, we aim to contribute to the development of renewables to support the country’s decarbonisation objectives.”

The project financing, approximately MYR145m, was arranged with BNP Paribas Malaysia Berhad as the sole lender. TotalEnergies, operating in Malaysia since 1985, is the third-largest gas operator in the country and is actively developing renewable projects to support its B2B customers. The company aims to achieve over 100 TWh of net electricity production by 2030, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.


Financial Services

Kenanga Futures slashes entry fees for market access

Kenanga Futures Sdn Bhd has unveiled its “Shining in Global Futures” campaign, aimed at enhancing retail investors’ access to global derivatives markets. Running until 31 July 2026, the campaign focuses on easing entry barriers and providing educational resources for trading selected Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) futures products.

The initiative, led by CEO Azila Abdul Aziz, seeks to empower new investors with interactive tools and strategic insights. “Shining in Global Futures aims to make global futures markets more accessible whilst equipping traders with the knowledge they need to manage risk,” said Abdul Aziz. The campaign aligns with Kenanga Futures’ goal of building a smart derivatives trading community by combining education, risk awareness, and seamless market access.

To encourage participation, Kenanga Futures has reduced account opening fees to RM10 during the campaign. Participants can also win prizes totalling RM20,000. The first 20 participants who trade a minimum of 30 CME products will receive RM500 Poh Kong Gold cash vouchers, whilst the top three traders with the highest volumes will share RM9,000 in vouchers.

The campaign also introduces a virtual trading challenge on the Kenanga Futures Virtual Trading platform, allowing participants to experience real-time market conditions without financial risk. The top 10 participants with the highest simulated profits will earn RM100 e-shopping vouchers.

Looking forward, Kenanga Futures plans to expand the initiative with advanced modules and partnerships, fostering a community of informed and confident traders.


Energy & Offshore

EI Power’s Q1 profit hits RM6m amid market pressures

EI Power Berhad, a power engineering solutions provider, has announced a profit after tax (PAT) of RM6m for the first quarter ending 31 March 2026. This marks the company’s first interim financial result in compliance with the ACE Market Listing Requirements of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad.

The company reported a revenue of RM20.7m, with mission critical power solutions contributing 98% of this figure. The remaining revenue was generated from conventional and renewable energy power solutions. Gross profit stood at RM9.8m, whilst profit before tax (PBT) was RM8m, reflecting a PBT margin of 38.5%.

Albert Chang Wan Siong, Executive Director and CEO of EI Power Berhad, highlighted the strong demand within the data centre sector as a key driver for their mission critical power solutions. He noted, “The ongoing expansion of hyperscale co-location facilities and AI-related infrastructure, alongside investments in the semiconductor and electronics ecosystem, is supporting further opportunities within the industry.”

The company is also expanding its footprint beyond Malaysia, with plans to enter the Thai market, where digital infrastructure investments are increasing. As of 24 March 2026, EI Power Berhad’s unbilled order book was valued at RM99.9m, ensuring earnings visibility through 2027. Additionally, the company has submitted tenders in Thailand worth approximately RM75.3m.

EI Power Berhad is set to be listed on the ACE Market of Bursa Securities on 21 May 2026, aiming to raise RM62.2m through its initial public offering. The funds will support the establishment of a new headquarters, expansion into Thailand and Johor, and investments in building energy efficiency systems.


Healthcare

BGI Genomics joins alliance to close care gap in APAC

BGI Genomics has announced its participation in the HGP2 Rare Disease Alliance of the Asia-Pacific Region (HGP2 RaDiAnce–APAC), a coalition aimed at addressing the diagnostic challenges of rare diseases in the region. The alliance, launched on 10 May in Kuala Lumpur, brings together experts from 10 countries under the Human Genome Project II (HGP2) framework.

The initiative seeks to improve rare disease diagnosis and care by focusing on five key areas: ethics, accessibility, collaboration, acceleration, and public response. The alliance’s efforts are expected to enhance genomic medicine and public health responses across the Asia-Pacific.

Hou Yong, General Manager of BGI Genomics, highlighted the alliance’s potential to “advance the standardisation, intelligent transformation, and e-health” in the region. This collaboration is seen as a significant step towards integrating genomics, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies into healthcare systems.

YBhg. Datuk Dr. Nor Fariza Binti Ngah, Deputy Director-General of Health (Research and Technical Support) at Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, emphasised the importance of transitioning from reactive to predictive and preventive healthcare. “Precision health is not a future ambition, but a present responsibility,” she stated, underscoring Malaysia’s commitment to integrating genomics and strong policy frameworks into its health system.

The alliance’s formation marks a concerted effort to close the care gap for rare diseases, potentially transforming healthcare delivery and outcomes in the Asia-Pacific region.


Manufacturing

Malaysia strengthens semiconductor hub status

SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 wrapped up its three-day event at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur, underscoring the region’s growing influence in the global semiconductor industry. The event, themed “Transform Tomorrow,” attracted nearly 20,000 attendees from 57 countries, featuring over 700 exhibitors and 105 speakers.

The conference focused on key areas such as intelligent manufacturing, sustainability, talent development, and supply chain resilience. Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI, emphasised the importance of collaboration in scaling the industry sustainably: “SEMI’s role is to connect the global semiconductor ecosystem and help translate alignment into action.”

A highlight was the Intelligent Manufacturing Showcase, powered by Sandisk and SEMI, which demonstrated the transformative impact of digital technologies on semiconductor production. Boon Soo Lim, VP and GM of SDSM Operations at Sandisk, noted, “Intelligent manufacturing is no longer a future concept as it is already shaping how semiconductor fabs operate today.”

The event also aligned with Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy, aiming to attract over RM 500b in investments. SEMICON Southeast Asia will return to Kuala Lumpur from 25-27 May 2027, continuing its mission to foster industry collaboration and innovation.


Healthcare

Patented ingredients redefine Malaysian supplements

WelBloom BioTech is making strides in Malaysia’s health supplement market by launching two patented ingredients, WelROS6 and WelEGT, aimed at helping local brands stand out. This initiative, announced on 12 May 2026, seeks to address the challenges of a saturated retail environment through innovative Functional Jelly technology and scientifically-backed formulations.

The Malaysian dietary supplements sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.68% through 2034, according to IMARC Group. In this expanding market, WelBloom BioTech highlights the significance of using high-barrier patented ingredients. WelROS6, derived from the Black Crystal Roselle, boasts a total anthocyanin content up to 177 times higher than conventional extracts, thanks to a triple-patented microgrinding technology. This ingredient is particularly targeted at the beauty and wellness sector.

For the ageing population, WelBloom BioTech introduces WelEGT, a high-purity ergothioneine. This ingredient, extracted through a patented process, is designed for cognitive health supplements and offers five times the branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) content of standard chicken essence, supporting anti-ageing and neurological health.

WelBloom’s Functional Jelly technology further enhances product offerings by enabling preservative-free supplements that retain 97.8% active ingredient integrity. As an international contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) certified under NSF-GMP and HALAL, WelBloom BioTech provides comprehensive services from research and development to production, empowering Malaysian partners to achieve unique market positioning.

WelBloom BioTech continues to lead in the health food industry, offering innovative solutions and supporting clients in developing competitive, differentiated products.


Markets & Investing

RNG Tech inks IPO deal with M&A Securities

RNG Tech Berhad, the operator of the “Rest N Go” vending massage chair services, has signed an underwriting agreement with M & A Securities Sdn Bhd as it gears up for an initial public offering (IPO) on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. The agreement marks a significant step for RNG Tech, which holds a 69.3% market share in Malaysia as of 2024.

The company, known for its convenient and affordable massage services, operates over 4,146 vending massage chairs across Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, and Brunei Darussalam. Additionally, it has licensing arrangements for 2,340 chairs in Vietnam and the Philippines. The IPO will involve the issuance of 126.1 million new shares, representing 16% of its enlarged share capital, and the sale of 78.8 million existing shares, or 10% of the share capital.

Managing Director Sophia Tan Sok Fei highlighted the importance of the underwriting agreement, stating, “It supports our plans to further scale our network, particularly across strategic, high-traffic locations in both Malaysia and regional markets.” The IPO aims to enhance RNG Tech’s growth by expanding its chair network and improving customer experience.

M & A Securities will underwrite 51.2 million shares available to the Malaysian public and eligible stakeholders. RNG Tech’s listing on the ACE Market is expected by the third quarter of 2026, with M & A Securities serving as the Adviser, Sponsor, Underwriter, and Placement Agent.


Markets & Investing

EI Power Berhad records IPO oversubscription by 30.8 times

EI Power Berhad, a power engineering solutions provider, has announced that its initial public offering (IPO) has been oversubscribed by 30.8 times. This overwhelming interest precedes its listing on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, scheduled for 21 May 2026. The company, known for its engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) services, is raising RM62.2m through the IPO to fund expansion plans.

The IPO involves the issuance of 129.5 million new ordinary shares at 48 sen each, representing 18.5% of the company’s enlarged share capital. Additionally, 70 million existing shares are being offered via private placement to selected investors and Bumiputera investors approved by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry. The public portion saw 21,490 applications for 1,111,878,700 shares, with the Bumiputera portion oversubscribed by 15.8 times and the public portion by 45.8 times.

Executive Director and CEO Albert Chang Wan Siong expressed gratitude for the investor confidence, stating, “The proceeds raised will support our expansion plans, enabling us to scale our operations, strengthen our capabilities, and better position us to meet rising demand for power engineering solutions across our key markets.”

The funds will be allocated towards establishing new headquarters, enhancing energy efficiency systems, and expanding into Thailand and Johor. With a market capitalisation of RM336m upon listing, EI Power Berhad aims to leverage its established track record of 146 projects since 2022 to continue serving a diverse range of industries.


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