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UEM Edgenta’s Strategic Expansion in the Middle East: Revolutionizing Real Estate

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UEM Edgenta Berhad, Malaysia’s leading Asset Management and Infrastructure Solutions provider, is intensifying its foray into the Middle East’s integrated facility management market. The company has recently inked a significant agreement with KAIZEN Group, marking a vital chapter in its regional expansion strategy. Complementing this development, UEM Edgenta has entered into three Memoranda of Business Exploration (MOBE) with DISRUPT-X DMCC, ZAIN TECHNOLOGIES LLC, and Tadoom, indicating a robust commitment to strategic growth.

At the COP28 conference, UEM Edgenta announced a significant milestone: the acquisition of a 60% stake in a renowned UAE-based, tech-enabled property management services company. KAIZEN Group, with its wide array of services in owner association Management, Development Project Management, and various advisory and consultancy services, brings a wealth of expertise. This acquisition signifies UEM Edgenta’s dedication to establishing a comprehensive real estate services platform in collaboration with the KAIZEN Group.

Strategic Synergies: UEM Edgenta and KAIZEN Group

The partnership aims to enhance the delivery of integrated services while creating unique lifestyle experiences, powered by innovative technology and sustainable solutions. This move will also facilitate UEM Edgenta in integrating its smart building solutions through its Asseto SaaS platform, incorporating sustainable practices like Energy Efficiency and Green Building Initiatives. This strategic initiative responds to the growing demand for sustainable and technologically advanced solutions in the Middle East’s real estate sector.

Syahrunizam Samsudin, UEM Edgenta’s MD/CEO, highlighted the strategic importance of including KAIZEN Group under UEM Edgenta’s umbrella. This aligns with Dubai’s Master Urban Plan 2040, which aims to enhance the city’s position as a leading hub for quality living. Samsudin emphasized that this integration is a key part of UEM Edgenta’s vision for 2025, broadening its international footprint and enhancing its technological offerings in high-growth markets.

“Our initiatives are not just aspirational; they are practical steps toward a more sustainable, inclusive world,” Syahrunizam stated. He emphasized the role of data and AI, particularly in Smart Cities, as crucial elements of this transformation. UEM Edgenta aims to establish new industry benchmarks, foster global collaboration, and embed ESG principles into Smart Cities operations through these integrations.

New Collaborations and MOBE Partnerships

Alongside the KAIZEN Group acquisition, UEM Edgenta announced partnerships with Disrupt-X, Zain Tech, and Tadoom. These alliances mark the start of collaborative efforts to utilize the combined expertise of all partners, focusing on developing smart cities and sustainable solutions in Oman and the broader Middle East. These partnerships strengthen UEM Edgenta’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, technology-driven solutions in the real estate sector and shaping a sustainable, technologically advanced future for the region.

The MOBE exchange was represented by top executives from KAIZEN Group, Zain Tech, and Tadoom. Additionally, Syahrunizam Samsudin shared insights with Reuters at the COP28 event in Dubai, discussing the pivotal role of innovative technologies and green infrastructure in achieving climate goals. For more details on UEM Edgenta’s initiatives in the Middle East, visit UEM Edgenta’s Official Website.

Huawei Malaysia & Pantas Join Forces for Enterprise Decarbonisation and Renewable Energy Solutions

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Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Huawei Malaysia) and Pantas Software Sdn Bhd (Pantas) have recently formalized a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop enterprise decarbonisation applications. This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting sustainable business practices in Malaysia.

Under this agreement, Huawei Malaysia will provide cutting-edge Digital Power products and solutions, including Smart PV+ESS and FusionCharge solutions. Pantas, on the other hand, will leverage its expertise as a strategic partner in new business development, bringing its climate-tech innovations to the forefront.

Huawei’s global expertise in solar energy and its growing dominance in the local market are expected to be key in accelerating the adoption of renewable energy by industries, SMEs, and residential sectors. This move is not just about technological advancement but also about fostering a greener future through sustainable energy sources.

Customized Climate Solutions by Pantas

Pantas, recognized as a leading climate-tech firm in Southeast Asia, offers customized end-to-end climate solutions. These solutions enable businesses to measure, manage, and report their ESG metrics, particularly focusing on carbon emissions. Utilizing proprietary AI technology, Pantas’ platform integrates with existing ERP systems, providing clients with tailored decarbonisation strategies and unique financing solutions from partner banks.

This partnership promises to deliver the best solutions for companies aiming to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy. It aligns with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and is set to catalyze the growth of Malaysia’s renewable energy sector.

Huawei’s Vision for a Greener Malaysia

Chong Chern Peng, Vice President of Huawei Malaysia’s Digital Power Business, highlighted the company’s commitment to local businesses’ energy needs. Huawei aims to facilitate an energy revolution with its comprehensive energy solutions, focusing on both clean power generation and consumption. This partnership is seen as a step towards a more sustainable Malaysia, offering a win-win collaboration for all involved stakeholders.

Max Lee, CEO of Pantas, emphasized the significance of this partnership with Huawei. By combining Huawei’s advanced renewable energy solutions with Pantas’ climate technology platform, the collaboration aims to create a dynamic alliance. This union is designed to empower businesses with AI-enhanced, data-driven decarbonisation strategies, moving Malaysian enterprises towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Accelerating Renewable Energy Adoption in Malaysia

The collaboration is poised to boost the implementation of renewable energy solutions in Malaysian businesses. This includes a range of solutions like smart PV, energy storage systems for various applications, commercial EV charging stations, microgrid power plants, and both front-of-the-meter and behind-the-meter BESS applications.

The MoU was officially signed by Chong Chern Peng from Huawei and Max Lee from Pantas, witnessed by Oliver Liu, Huawei Malaysia’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, and Lionel Loh, Senior Sustainability Manager at Pantas. This partnership is a testament to the growing commitment towards environmental sustainability and technological innovation in Malaysia’s business landscape.

Takaful Malaysia Unveils KAOTIM: Revolutionizing Digital Insurance and Takaful

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Takaful Malaysia Keluarga Berhad, renowned as Malaysia’s first takaful operator, recently launched KAOTIM, a groundbreaking digital platform. Managed by Takaful Malaysia itself, KAOTIM signifies a major leap in insurance and takaful services, offering a secure, customer-focused online experience. This platform streamlines administrative processes, ensuring a quick and smooth subscription journey for customers. A key feature of KAOTIM is MediKad, an affordable, comprehensive medical coverage plan tailored for Malaysians.

The launch event of KAOTIM was graced by prominent figures, including Datuk Mohammed Hussein, Group Chairman of Takaful Malaysia, and Ismail Mahbob, Chairman of Takaful Malaysia Am. Accompanied by the Board of Directors of Takaful Malaysia Keluarga and Takaful Malaysia Am, the Shariah Advisory Body, and senior management officials including Nor Azman Zainal, Group CEO, and Mohamed Sabri Ramli, CEO of Takaful Malaysia Am, the event marked a significant milestone in the company’s history.

Nor Azman Zainal, the Group CEO, emphasized KAOTIM’s role in reinforcing Takaful Malaysia’s digital presence in the insurance and takaful industry. He highlighted the platform’s alignment with the national directive to boost economic competitiveness through digital advancements. KAOTIM’s introduction aims to meet changing customer needs and preferences, ensuring Takaful Malaysia remains at the forefront of the digital revolution in financial services.

KAOTIM and MediKad: A New Era of Digital Insurance Solutions

Nor Azman Zainal underscored the strategic importance of KAOTIM in enhancing Takaful Malaysia’s direct retail business and attracting new customers. With a focus on seamless online transactions and personalized solutions, KAOTIM introduces MediKad, a cost-effective medical coverage plan starting from RM38 per month. This plan caters to various age groups, offering cashless hospital admissions, unlimited hospital stay days, and daily income for government hospital admissions, with coverage up to the age of 85.

MediKad, available for Malaysians aged 6 to 69, provides three plan options with an additional MediBooster rider. Customers can enjoy immediate coverage after a straightforward four-step online enrollment and a simple medical questionnaire, without the need for a medical check-up. This initiative aims to address the challenges of high medical costs in Malaysia by offering accessible and affordable medical coverage.

Nor Azman Zainal highlighted KAOTIM’s commitment to providing an efficient, convenient digital experience. The platform enables easy access to comprehensive, low-cost medical coverage, promoting financial security and peace of mind for customers. Coinciding with Takaful Malaysia’s 39th anniversary, the launch of KAOTIM and MediKad marks a significant step in the company’s journey towards becoming a leading Islamic financial institution in the dynamic insurance and takaful industry.

Russia’s Leap into the Future: Unveiling the Generative AI Revolution at the AI Journey Conference

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At the AI Journey international conference, the spotlight was on “The Generative AI Revolution: New Opportunities,” with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Sberbank CEO Herman Gref leading the dialogue. Gref highlighted the transformative potential of generative AI in enhancing human abilities. Putin revealed a 1.5-fold increase in AI usage in Russia’s economic and social sectors, signifying burgeoning investments and improved production efficiencies through AI.

This tech revolution extends beyond business metrics to fostering public trust in this universal, innovative technology. AI’s integration into various sectors marks a new era in human existence, streamlining daily life, enhancing governance, and advancing organizational and regional operations in Russia.

Putin specifically underscored the advancements in generative AI, now aiding in coding, design, healthcare, and even creative fields, showcasing machine capabilities often surpassing human expertise. These advancements position generative AI not merely as tools but as collaborators in diverse domains, essential for business and state efficiency.

Vladimir Putin on Russia’s Growing AI Capabilities

The President envisioned generative AI catalyzing custom product and service creation, spurring new business models, optimizing production, and boosting labour productivity. He also foresees AI revolutionizing public administration through data-driven management, automating administrative tasks, and enhancing decision-making with big data.

However, Putin assured that AI would augment, not replace, professionals like medical workers and teachers, serving as valuable assistants in various sectors.

A new National Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence is on the horizon, reflecting the rapid progress in generative models. Putin stressed the need for educational access to supercomputers, enhancing Russia’s computational capabilities, and investing in generative AI and large language model research.

Russia’s competitive edge in generative AI must be fortified, Putin suggested, through industry-specific models to boost productivity and wages. He also advocated for advanced training programs in this field.

Herman Gref called for developing trustworthy AI, capable of identifying and correcting flaws in less advanced models and demystifying AI decision-making processes.

AI’s Breakthroughs in Healthcare, Education, and Management

Gref outlined AI’s potential breakthroughs in healthcare, education, and management systems. Speakers like Andrey Tyazhelnikov, Natalia Troyanovskaya, Vladislav Kozhemyakin, Alyona Kochorova, and Alexander Gasnikov discussed AI’s impact in their respective fields, from medical diagnostics to personalized education and public administration.

Regional governors Andrey Vorobyov and Sergey Tsivilyov shared insights on AI implementation in their areas. Educational initiatives like School 21 are preparing IT professionals for Russia’s digital transformation.

Concluding the conference, Putin emphasized the need for a swift, efficient AI evolution impacting all societal levels, calling for a unified effort to secure Russia’s future in this technological era.

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke Appointed as New GCEO of Cradle Fund, Bolstering Malaysia’s Startup Ecosystem

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Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle), a key agency in Malaysia’s startup scene, operating under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), is thrilled to announce the appointment of Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke as its new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), starting from 23 November 2023.

Norman, who is of Malay and Belgian heritage, has been serving as the interim GCEO of Cradle since 1 June 2022. His journey with Cradle began in 2020 as the Head of Finance and Corporate Services, following a diverse career that kicked off with a role as an auditor at KPMG. Norman’s extensive resume includes significant positions in Strategy, Finance, and Management within various local and international oil and gas companies, as well as in government agencies. He is a graduate with a degree in Accounting from the University of Queensland, Australia, and holds another degree in Software Engineering from Multimedia University, Malaysia. Norman’s passion for technology and innovation, fueled by his experiences and educational background, has been a driving force in his ambition to elevate Malaysian tech companies to a globally competitive level.

Datuk Yvonne Chia, Chairman of Cradle, expressed her enthusiasm about Norman’s appointment, highlighting it as a testament to Cradle’s robust internal talent pool and effective succession planning. She noted, “Over the past 18 months, Norman has exemplified outstanding leadership as the acting GCEO, making a substantial impact on the organization. His comprehensive expertise and proven track record of success assure me that under his leadership, Cradle will continue to lead Malaysia’s startup agenda, making significant contributions to society, businesses, and the nation, in line with Malaysia MADANI’s objectives.”

Cradle extends heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and MOSTI for their continuous support since its inception. The dynamic partnership between Cradle, MOF, and MOSTI has been instrumental in cultivating a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable startup ecosystem. This collaboration is key to achieving the Government’s goal of placing Malaysia among the Top 20 Global Startup Ecosystems by 2030, boosting startup growth and making a substantial contribution to the country’s broader economic framework.

For further details on Cradle’s initiatives and its role in advancing Malaysia’s startup ecosystem, please visit www.cradle.com.my.

Garmin Unleashes quatix 7 Pro: The Ultimate Marine Smartwatch for On-Water Adventures and Fitness

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Garmin, a leader in marine electronics innovation, unveils the quatix 7 Pro, a next-generation smartwatch tailored for the marine environment. This high-performance wearable combines everyday fitness and wellness tech with features suited for life on the water. It boasts a stunning 1.3” AMOLED display and a durable, scratch-resistant sapphire lens. The quatix 7 Pro features a durable battery with a 16-day lifespan in smartwatch mode, an LED flashlight with multiple settings, and introduces two innovative apps, Trolling Motor Remote and Fish Forecast, ideal for mariners and anglers.

Garmin Asia’s Assistant General Manager, Mr Scoppen Lin, highlights the quatix 7 Pro’s design, specifically for marine activities, adding style and sophistication for onshore life as well. The watch combines a rugged build, suitable for marine conditions, with a sleek design for social settings. Features include a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, titanium bezel with a diamond-like carbon coating, metal button guard, quick-release bands, and metal-protected lugs. The quatix 7 Pro offers traditional button controls for challenging marine environments and a touchscreen for easy access to all functions.

Designed for the Seas: Unique Features of the quatix 7 Pro

quatix 7 Pro – Lifestyle Photography

Its LED flashlight, including a red-light mode for night vision, and an eco-friendly construction from recycled ocean-bound plastics, add to its appeal. The built-in apps cater to marine adventures, allowing users to control their Force trolling motors and access remote-control functionalities for compatible Garmin chart plotters, autopilots, and Fusion audio systems from their wrist. The Fish Forecast app provides insights into the best fishing times, enhancing the angling experience.

The quatix 7 Pro’s advanced navigation features include multi-band GPS and SatIQ technology for superior positioning and optimized battery life. It comes preloaded with TopoActive maps and supports BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps, along with weather overlays, ensuring mariners can confidently navigate.

Beyond the Waters: Fitness and Wellness Tracking On and Offshore

quatix 7 Pro – Lifestyle Photography

Offshore, the quatix 7 Pro tracks over 30 activities like trail running, hiking, and golfing. Its fitness features, including VO2 max and wellness insights like sleep monitoring, add to its versatility. With connected features such as smart notifications and music storage, it’s a comprehensive smartwatch for both marine and land use.

Available from mid-December, the quatix 7 Pro is priced at RM4,950, available at Shopee, Lazada, AECO e-store, Garmin Brand Stores, and select retailers. To explore Garmin’s full range of marine electronics, visit garmin.com.

Tron Robotics Unveils Advanced Cobot Range for Malaysia’s Manufacturing Sector

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Singapore’s esteemed tech firm, Tron Robotics, specializing in cutting-edge robotic systems, recently announced the launch of their innovative cobot series in Malaysia. This move aims to revolutionize the manufacturing industry by enhancing productivity, flexibility, and safety, offering cost-effective robot automation solutions.

Boosting Malaysia’s Industry 5.0 with Tron Robotics’ Cobots

In line with Malaysia’s ambitious Industry 5.0 Digital Economy strategy, the need for automation within the manufacturing sector is escalating. The Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) forecasts the Malaysian Robotics market to hit RM103.1 billion by 2030, surpassing the goals set in the National Robotics Roadmap. Tron Robotics’ new CR/CO and MR cobot series are tailored to meet this demand across various industries, boasting ease of implementation and affordability.

Tron Robotics’ Cobots: Revolutionizing Automation

The CR/CO and MR series from Tron Robotics are engineered to help businesses combat rising labour costs and skill shortages. These cobots not only enhance productivity and safety in production environments but they are also priced competitively. Consequently, this makes them ideal for SMEs and first-time automation adopters, bridging the gap between advanced technology and accessibility.

James Soh, Managing Partner at Tron Robotics, emphasizes their flagship cobot series’ role in improving efficiency and safety at a lower cost. He envisions Malaysian companies incorporating the CR/CO series into their manufacturing operations to address skilled labour shortages.

Key Features of Tron Robotics’ Cobots

Tron Robotics’ cobots are known for their rapid setup and straightforward programming. They are ideal for repetitive or hazardous tasks in production environments, requiring no specialized training or complex coding.

Flagship CR/CO Series by Tron Robotics

The CR/CO series, the flagship collaborative robot line from Tron Robotics, focuses on maximizing productivity and user-friendliness. Recognized for exceptional quality, this series is widely used in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and electronics.

Highlights of the CR/CO series:

  • ±0.02mm repeat position accuracy
  • IP67 protection for tough environments
  • Lightweight (25kg) with robodock quick charge
  • Versatile applications across industries
  • Enhanced safety features for collaborative work

Tron Robotic’s MR Series: Pioneering CNC Machining

The MR Series from Tron Robotics revolutionizes CNC machining with its compact, advanced automation and unique Tron Docking system. This series is ideal for high mix low volume production, featuring vision cameras and electric grippers for precise part handling.

Key attributes of the MR Series:

  • Compact, mobile design
  • Collaborative robot arm for safe co-working
  • Tron Docking System for seamless CNC integration
  • Customizable automation solutions
  • Advanced safety features

Tron Robotics’ Vision for the Malaysian Manufacturing Sector

Mr. Soh envisages a future where Tron Robotics’ cobots are ubiquitous in Malaysian manufacturing, enhancing productivity and workplace safety.

Expanding in Malaysia with CFI Technologies

Tron Robotics is partnering with CFI Technologies for its expansion in Malaysia, which will drive regional market growth opportunities.

For more details on Tron Robotics, visit Tron Robotics Official Website.

Huawei’s 11.11 Sale Event: Your Gateway to Advanced Technology and Seamless Connectivity

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From November 11 to 13, 2023, Huawei is set to revolutionize the online shopping realm with unbeatable deals on its official website and flagship store Lazada. And the savings don’t stop there – Huawei’s Official Store on Shopee extends these exceptional offers until November 15, 2023. For those who might miss the initial sale days, an extended promotion from November 15 to 24, 2023, ensures everyone can enjoy special deals on their favourite gadgets.

This is not just a sale; it’s Huawei’s mission to bridge connections through cutting-edge technology.

Huawei’s sale offers tech enthusiasts the chance to get the latest gadgets that improve daily life and connections. Find everything from health-tracking smartwatches and powerful laptops to artistic tablets and top-notch audio devices for a modern digital experience.

Highlighted Deals and Tech Marvels:

HUAWEI WATCH GT 4

This timepiece is the epitome of a geometric design paired with professional health management. With up to two weeks of battery life and compatibility with Android and iOS devices, it’s an essential accessory for anyone. Starting at RM1,099, customers can enjoy gifts worth up to RM550 and discount vouchers up to RM120.

HUAWEI Band 8

Sleekness meets functionality with the Band 8’s ultra-thin design, scientific sleep tracking, and enduring battery life, all available from RM159 – a steal from the original RM219 retail price.

HUAWEI MateBook 14

Experience tech excellence with the MateBook 14’s 2K FullView Touch Display, powered by a 12th Gen i5 Processor and Huawei’s Super Device capabilities. Dive into high-efficiency work and play for just RM2,999, down from RM3,999, exclusively at Huawei’s Flagship Store on Lazada.

HUAWEI Mate 50 Pro (8GB + 256GB)

Capture the world in unprecedented detail with the Mate 50 Pro’s Ultra Aperture XMAGE Camera, boasting Huawei’s first 10-size adjustable physical aperture. Snap it up for RM2,699, a significant drop from the RRP of RM4,499.

HUAWEI MatePad SE WiFi (4GB + 64GB)

Your vision will thank you for the 2K Eye Comfort Huawei FullView Display, complete with Surround Sound by Histen 8.0, all powered by a handy 6 nm processor. This tablet could be yours for just RM679, down from RM999.

HUAWEI MatePad 11 WiFi (6+128)

Elevate your productivity to PC levels with the MatePad 11, featuring Huawei Notes and a 120 Hz Huawei FullView Display. Priced at RM1,499 from RM1,799, it comes with gifts worth up to RM698.

HUAWEI FreeBuds 5i

Immerse yourself in high-resolution sound with 42 dB multi-mode ANC, and enjoy up to 28 hours of music playback. Available for only RM279, reduced from RM399.

Ready to upgrade your tech? Visit Huawei’s Official Website, flagship store on Lazada, or official store on Shopee for a smooth shopping spree. Watch Huawei’s official social media pages for the latest updates and details on these amazing promotions.

Illuminating Progress: Synergy ESCO’s Sustainable Vision for Malaysia

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Aligning with Malaysia’s 2023 Sustainable Development goals, Synergy ESCO Sdn. Bhd. has become a key force. In partnership with Lembaga Perumahan Dan Hartanah (LPHS) and 12 Selangor city councils, it’s leading Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts. The company is a frontrunner in sustainable solutions, shaping a greener future for the region.

Synergy ESCO leads the ‘Light Source In Darkness’ initiative, promoting cost-effective, ESG-compliant energy solutions in Selangor’s shared buildings. This initiative significantly trims lighting energy requisites and carbon emissions by substituting conventional tubes with Synergy’s patented LED illumination devices. Notably, this metamorphosis unfolds without any initial fiscal outlay for the Joint Management Bodies (JMB) and Management Corporations (MC). These LEDs are a marvel of longevity, promising an operational span of 150,000 hours, with a mere 5-watt power draw, yet casting a luminous efficiency of 210 lumen/watt.

A Quantum Leap in Energy Efficiency: The LED Revolution

Synergy ESCO Sdn Bhd plans to install LED lights in 8,000 Selangor buildings by 2025, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 3.7 million tonnes, equivalent to planting 100 million trees. So far, they’ve installed 119,471 LEDs, cutting 82,074 tonnes of CO2 in ten years.

The LEDs boast a stellar performance record, manifesting a mere 0.01% failure rate. Over an eight-year continuum, these fixtures have exhibited virtually null defects, a testament to the firm’s allegiance to excellence. Moreover, the LEDs persist at an 85% luminosity quotient for ten years, epitomizing both energy stewardship and enduring performance. The effect of this initiative is seismic, eliciting accolades from JMB and MC of stratified properties, which have witnessed drastic reductions in their electric expenditures and upkeep costs while basking in the enhanced luminescence and augmented safety.

The Environmental Impact: A Decade of LED Advancements

Galvanized by the ‘Green Initiative Program’s’ triumphs, Synergy ESCO is revolutionizing not merely the illumination domain but is also sowing seeds for a culture steeped in sustainability and accountability. This crusade transcends mere action; it embodies a pledge to our biosphere, an overture to bequeath a legacy of eco-consciousness.

Working closely with Malaysian authorities, Synergy ESCO supports the country’s goal for carbon neutrality by 2050 through various green projects. The company is also entering sustainable agriculture, focusing on digital vertical farming to grow crops more efficiently and sustainably. This effort reinforces Synergy ESCO’s role in Malaysia’s sustainable future.

Synergy ESCO continues to fortify its commitment to the SDGs, weaving ESG values into the fabric of its initiatives, and sparking ingenuity across the board, thus moulding a more sustainable and resilient Malaysia. The dictum “Go green now, no plan B. Light it up, pass it on!” resonates as a clarion call, underscoring the singular path to environmental custodianship and the nurturing of our progeny. Collectively, we hold the power to forge a discernible difference!

Unveiling the IICF: A Leap Towards Resilient SMEs in Malaysia

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Generali and the UNDP have launched the “Insurance Innovation Challenge Fund” (IICF) in Malaysia, inviting nationwide proposals for innovative insurance solutions to bolster SMEs’ resilience.

Entrants should propose sustainable solutions to protect SMEs against climate and other risks, either by expanding existing solutions or partnering with diverse channels and integrating new technologies. Offerings may include coverage for stock, machinery, business continuity, staff, or various risks.

The IICF will accelerate the development of at least two solutions through an open selection process. Winners will receive up to US$40,000, including financial and technical support to advance their solutions.

Excited by this initiative with UNDP, Fabrice Benard, CEO of Generali Insurance Malaysia Berhad, emphasizes Generali’s commitment to promoting insurance as a tool for financial inclusion among vulnerable SMEs. He notes that SMEs, making up about 97% of Malaysia’s businesses, are crucial to the economy and a priority for Generali. In collaboration with UNDP, they aim to bridge the protection gap and enhance resilience for SMEs.

Since 2022, Generali and UNDP have been crafting global insurance and risk finance solutions. They are now developing a loss prevention framework for SMEs to harness data for risk understanding. Alongside the IICF, an Asian edition of Generali’s SME EnterPRIZE project is underway, following its success in Europe.

Interested participants can apply for the IICF by emailing irff.challenge@undp.org by 27 November 2023. Two virtual Q&A sessions are scheduled on 31st October 2023 and 8th November 2023 at 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the IICF website.