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Industry News

Building & Engineering

AWC bags RM26.6m waste contracts in Singapore and Malaysia

AWC Berhad, a leading engineering services group, has secured three contracts for automated pneumatic waste collection systems (AWCS) in Malaysia and Singapore. The contracts, awarded to subsidiaries Stream Environment Sdn. Bhd. and Stream Environment (S) Pte. Ltd., were finalised on 14 January, 5 February, and 6 February 2026. These projects are expected to enhance AWC’s market presence and contribute positively to its earnings until their completion in August 2029.

The Group’s CEO, Ahmad Kabeer bin Mohamed Nagoor, highlighted the significance of these wins, particularly noting a project for a public facility in Singapore. “This underscores the confidence placed in our technical expertise and our ability to meet stringent operational requirements,” he stated. The contracts bring AWC’s cumulative wins in FY26 to approximately RM450m, providing clear earnings visibility.

AWC’s Environment Division is a global leader in AWCS, having completed notable projects such as the world’s tallest AWCS at Merdeka 118. The Group anticipates continued growth in Malaysia and expects the Singapore market to offset a slowdown in the Middle East. The increasing emphasis on sustainability and efficiency in urban environments presents growth opportunities for modern waste management solutions, with AWCS becoming integral to urban infrastructure.

AWC Berhad, headquartered in Subang Jaya, Malaysia, operates in facilities management, environment, engineering, and rail sectors across Asia and the Middle East.


Building & Engineering

Oxford Innotech clinches RM4.8m contract for data centre

Oxford Innotech Berhad, an integrated engineering solutions provider, has secured a second data centre contract worth RM4.8m through its subsidiary, CG Solutions Enterprise Sdn Bhd. The contract, awarded by the Singaporean office of an Australia-based data centre specialist, involves supplying critical steel infrastructure and metal precision components for an advanced airflow management system. The end-user is a leading global cloud and e-commerce platform.

The Managing Director of Oxford Innotech, Ng Thean Gin, expressed enthusiasm about the rapid succession of contracts, stating, “It is certainly very encouraging for us to have clinched our second data centre project from the same customer within a span of three weeks.” This latest contract brings the company’s total data centre-related wins to RM9.6m.

Ng also highlighted the company’s strategic focus on expanding its offerings beyond airflow management systems. “We are actively pursuing the qualification of other precision components for a wide range of data centre products offered by our Australian client,” he said, indicating potential for further opportunities.

The contract is set to commence this month, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026, which is expected to positively impact the company’s earnings. Oxford Innotech, listed on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia since July 2025, raised RM41.6m to support its growth ambitions in capacity expansion and capability enhancement.

Headquartered in Penang, Oxford Innotech specialises in precision engineering components, mechanical assembly, and automation solutions, serving industries such as semiconductor, automotive, and modular building systems.


Agribusiness

Allianz expands Orang Asli program, impacts 1,318 villagers

Allianz Malaysia Berhad, in collaboration with Yayasan Kajian dan Pembangunan Masyarakat (YKPM), reports significant progress in its Orang Asli Sustainable Livelihood Green Economy Programme. Launched in 2024, the initiative aims to empower Orang Asli communities in Pekan, Pahang, by fostering self-sustaining social enterprises through agroforestry, enhancing food security, and helping them rise above poverty.

The programme expanded in August 2025, now reaching 70 farmers from 42 households and benefiting 1,318 villagers across six villages. This phase focuses on collective farming, centralised infrastructure, efficient logistics, and leadership development.

By January 2026, the programme has enabled 42 Orang Asli families to generate substantial income, with ongoing investments in infrastructure for long-term sustainability. Allianz Malaysia CEO Sean Wang stated, “At Allianz Malaysia, we believe true empowerment happens when communities are given the tools, confidence and opportunities to lead their own progress.”

YKPM Managing Director Kon Onn Sein highlighted the impact of Allianz Malaysia’s financial support, which has allowed YKPM to enhance its support for the Orang Asli community, fostering self-sufficiency and economic growth. The funding also aids in building a sustainable programme that contributes to poverty alleviation and social transformation.

The initiative underscores Allianz Malaysia’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, aiming to create lasting positive impacts on the Orang Asli communities by equipping them with the necessary resources and opportunities for sustainable development.


Information Technology

BEDI drives AI transformation in Southeast Asia

Professor Dou Dejing, Chief Scientist at Beijing Electronic Digital Intelligence (BEDI), recently presented China’s AI industry practices at the China-ASEAN AI High-Level Seminar in Kuala Lumpur. The event, co-organised by several engineering and academic institutions, gathered nearly 150 representatives to discuss AI technologies and regional cooperation.

During his keynote, Professor Dou highlighted BEDI’s strategy of using full-stack AI capabilities to drive industrial upgrades. He detailed BEDI’s framework, which includes one AI foundation and two industry platforms, tailored to specific cities and industries. This approach has been applied in various sectors, including healthcare and manufacturing, offering ASEAN participants a reference for industry transformation.

BEDI’s initiatives include the Beijing Digital Economy Computing Power Centre, which supports innovation in Chaoyang District’s audiovisual industry, and a partnership with the China-Japan Friendship Hospital to enhance service efficiency. In Foshan, BEDI’s AI-enabled manufacturing base uses intelligent computing to reduce costs and improve efficiency, with projections of generating significant revenue growth.

Professor Dou emphasised BEDI’s commitment to ethical AI and open collaboration, aiming to build a China-ASEAN AI ecosystem through technology transfer and joint research and development. This model, he noted, provides a practical path for AI-powered transformation in Southeast Asia, supporting regional digital transformation and fostering new cooperation landscapes.


Healthcare

A1Health partners with MediExpress to strengthen services

Asia OneHealthcare (A1Health) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with MediExpress (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, marking the first collaboration of its kind between a hospital group and the managed healthcare network. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both parties aims to streamline patient access and improve administrative processes across A1Health hospitals.

Under the partnership, MediExpress will serve as a managed care partner across A1Health’s hospital network, with a shared focus on improving access to private healthcare, enhancing care coordination, and supporting the long-term sustainability of healthcare financing.

The significance of this partnership lies in its potential to transform patient experiences by making healthcare more accessible and affordable. By addressing key challenges in the healthcare system, A1Health and MediExpress are poised to set a new standard for hospital networks in the region.

The partnership brings together A1Health’s nationwide network of 21 hospitals, including 12 Columbia Asia Hospitals, Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Ara Damansara Medical Centre, ParkCity Medical Centre and Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre, as well as five super-specialty hospitals – ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital, Beacon Hospital, Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur (CVSKL), PICASO Hospital and Northern Heart Hospital Penang.

Beyond hospital-based treatment, the collaboration places a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare and long-term health management. As part of the partnership, MediExpress members will have access to Asia 1Health’s  Health Transformation Programme through selected hospitals within its network.


Financial Services

ComTech Gold risks with new gold-backed loans

ComTech Gold, a digital gold platform, has teamed up with PeerHive to launch a gold-backed financing solution for Malaysian investors. This innovative offering enables investors to use their tokenised physical gold, known as CGO Tokens, as collateral for financing, allowing them to retain ownership of their gold whilst accessing liquidity.

The partnership addresses a common dilemma for gold investors in Malaysia: the need to choose between holding gold as a long-term asset or liquidating it for short-term cash needs. By pledging CGO Tokens, which are backed 1:1 by physical 24-karat gold stored in insured vaults, investors can secure financing through PeerHive without selling their gold.

Gold has long been a trusted asset for wealth preservation in Malaysia. With increasing interest in digital assets and alternative financing, this partnership aims to modernise gold’s role as a financial tool. Jignesh Ved, Founder of ComTech Gold, stated, “This partnership is about giving gold investors greater flexibility.”

The solution offers several key features, including transparent valuation based on LBMA PM Fix benchmarks and institutional-grade risk controls. Unlike traditional pawn or buyback models, investors maintain beneficial ownership of their gold throughout the financing period.

ComTech Gold provides the digital infrastructure and gold custody capabilities, whilst PeerHive contributes expertise in secured lending and credit assessment. The partnership operates under UAE regulatory frameworks and is available to international investors, including those in Malaysia.

This collaboration highlights the evolution of secured lending, combining traditional asset-backed lending with modern technology to benefit both lenders and borrowers.


Markets & Investing

Farm Price intends to transfer to Bursa Main Market

Farm Price Holdings Berhad, a Johor-based wholesaler and distributor of fresh vegetables and F&B products, has announced its intention to transfer its listing from the ACE Market to the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. This move signifies the company’s growth and readiness for further expansion.

The company has met the necessary requirements for this transfer, as outlined by the Securities Commission Malaysia Equity Guidelines. Farm Price recorded a net profit of RM23.8m over the past three financial years, surpassing the minimum requirement of RM20m. For the financial year ending 2024, the company reported a net profit of RM10.3m, exceeding the RM6m minimum for the latest financial year.

Financially, Farm Price is in a strong position, with current assets of RM51.8m and liabilities of RM12.1m, resulting in a current ratio of 4.27. The company holds cash and cash equivalents of RM29.6m against total borrowings of RM10.9m, reflecting a healthy gearing ratio of 0.18. The company has also maintained positive net cash from operations over the past three years and has no accumulated losses.

Managing Director Lawrence Tiong Lee Chian stated, “The Proposed Transfer represents more than a market shift; it reflects the Group’s progress, operating discipline and readiness for the next phase of growth.” He added that the move is expected to enhance Farm Price’s credibility and broaden its investor base.

Farm Price plans to amend its Constitution to comply with the Main Market Listing Requirements. The company was initially listed on the ACE Market on 14 May 2024, raising RM24.5m. The expansion of its Centralised Distribution Centre in Senai is set to further boost its operational efficiency once commissioned in early 2026.


Insurance

Allianz Malaysia launches rewards campaign for its silver jubilee

Allianz Malaysia Berhad is commemorating its 25th anniversary with a nationwide campaign designed to reward its customers with extraordinary experiences. This celebration, marking a quarter-century of trust and protection, includes a series of exciting prizes aimed at enriching the lives of Malaysians.

Chief Executive Officer Sean Wang highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating, “This is a historic moment for us, celebrating 25 years of trust and securing lives. Our silver jubilee is not just a reflection of our growth as an organisation, but also a testament to the trust Malaysians have placed in us over the years.”

The campaign offers a range of prizes, including a Proton e.Mas 5 and a trip to Iceland for two, as well as exclusive dining and travel experiences for 48 customers. The total value of the prizes amounts to $42,000 (RM200,000). These rewards are part of Allianz Malaysia’s effort to celebrate progress, independence, and the courage to embrace the future.

In addition to the prizes, Allianz Malaysia will host roadshows in key locations such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor, offering engaging activities and insights into their protection solutions. The company remains committed to supporting Malaysians through life’s milestones, ensuring their futures are secure.


Energy & Offshore

Mooreast targets Renewable Energy in Malaysia with Sime Darby alliance

Mooreast Holdings Ltd., a Singapore Exchange-listed company, has announced a collaboration with Sime Darby Joy Industries Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad, to develop offshore and renewable energy products in Malaysia. The partnership aims to explore and fabricate products related to offshore renewable energy and deep-sea equipment, leveraging Mooreast’s technical expertise and SDJ’s fabrication capabilities.

The collaboration is driven by the increasing demand for reliable engineering solutions in floating renewable projects within Malaysia and the broader region. Mooreast, known for its mooring solutions and as Asia’s sole drag embedment anchor designer, will provide technical support and raw materials. Meanwhile, SDJ will manage the pilot fabrication, including production scheduling and logistics.

Sim Koon Lam, Executive Director of Mooreast, highlighted the potential of the partnership, stating, “Sime is one of the most well-established industrial groups in the region. The proposed collaboration will allow Mooreast to broaden its reach in Malaysia.” Scott Nicholls, Managing Director of Industrial Solutions at Sime, added, “SDJ’s long-standing expertise, combined with Mooreast’s subsea know-how, will strengthen local supply chains, create skilled jobs, and support the country’s clean-energy transition.”

This strategic partnership not only aims to enhance local supply chains but also supports Malaysia’s clean-energy transition, promising tangible benefits for customers and stakeholders in the region.


Aviation

AirBorneo orders new ATR aircraft, modernizes fleet

AirBorneo has announced a strategic partnership with ATR to modernise Malaysia’s Rural Air Services (RAS) fleet, confirming a firm order for eight ATR aircraft. The agreement includes five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with deliveries set between 2027 and 2029. This move marks a significant milestone in AirBorneo’s transformation into Sarawak’s state-owned airline, following its acquisition of MASwings in 2025.

The new-generation ATR –600 series fleet will strengthen essential air connectivity across Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan, enhancing operational reliability and passenger experience. The aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics, modern navigation technologies, and improved cabin comfort, and are optimised for diverse regional and rural routes in Borneo. This mixed fleet will provide AirBorneo with the flexibility to adjust capacity across various route profiles whilst maintaining strong commonality with the ATR family.

Megat Ardian, CEO of AirBorneo, stated, “Our new ATR –600 fleet will significantly strengthen the Rural Air Services network by offering improved comfort, greater efficiency, and the operational capability required for regional connectivity in East Malaysia.” Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, added, “The ATR 42-600, with its exceptional efficiency and low operating costs, is ideally suited for serving lower-density regional routes, whilst the ATR 72-600 provides additional capacity where it is needed.”

The agreement also includes purchase rights for four additional aircraft, allowing for potential regional expansion within the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area. This partnership underscores AirBorneo’s commitment to delivering reliable, safe, and modern air services for the communities it serves.


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