KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 4 (Bernama) -- SeenThis, the video advertising partner transforming how brands distribute video across the open web, has announced the next phase of its partnership with Lumen Research, the leading attention measurement company.
The collaboration introduces a proprietary SeenThis attention model, supported by a custom Lumen attention measurement tag, delivering independently verified, real-time attention insights for agencies and brands.
SeenThis Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jesper Benon in a statement said the partnership gives advertisers independently verified insight into how attention is earned on the open web and the confidence to invest where performance is proven, not assumed.
Meanwhile, Lumen CEO, Mike Follett said the collaboration brings a new perspective on the drivers of attention by measuring the technology used to deliver video advertising.
“The impact of video load times on visual attention has never been measured before, even though we have all experienced the dreaded empty grey box. It is intuitive – but exciting – to see the positive impact faster load times have on advertising attention,” added Follett.
Through extensive in-market testing, SeenThis’ adaptive streaming technology was shown to outperform legacy out-stream video across key attention metrics, confirming that the speed at which video advertising is delivered is a core driver of attention and that SeenThis’ adaptive streaming delivers video faster and more efficiently.
Initial testing shows that campaigns powered by SeenThis’ adaptive streaming delivered a 1,859 APM score (attention per 1,000 impressions), exceeding Lumen’s benchmarks across all attention metrics, including APM, viewability and in-view time.
Integrated with Lumen’s attention measurement tag, the new SeenThis attention model enables brands and agencies to measure and optimise attention using independently verified data within existing programmatic workflows.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
SEENTHIS, LUMEN LAUNCH REAL-TIME ATTENTION MEASUREMENT MODEL FOR VIDEO ADS
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
EF OPENS TITLE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR PRO CYCLING TEAM
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- Education First (EF) has opened a unique opportunity for a new title partner to join EF Pro Cycling while remaining the team’s long-term owner and anchor investor.
According to a statement, the move aims to strengthen the team’s resources and help it compete with the largest budgets in professional cycling.
The team’s goals include winning the Tour de France Femmes within three years, building a leading development pathway in professional cycling, and securing both men’s and women’s Tours de France within the next decade using riders developed through the EF Pro Cycling system.
“This is a unique opportunity for an organisation to partner with a global team and organisation such as EF. Together, we can build a team that extends far beyond traditional sponsorship, creating lasting value and impact for years to come,” said EF Education First Global Chief of Staff and EF Pro Cycling President, Maria Norrman.
The team will continue building around key riders such as Ben Healy, Magdeleine Vallieres, Kristen Faulkner, Richard Carapaz, and Neilson Powless, who have all signed long-term extensions.
EF Pro Cycling has consistently ranked among the top teams for social media engagement since 2017 and offers one of the strongest returns on investment for title partners in professional sports, according to Nielsen Analytics.
The team is backed by long-standing partners including EasyPost, Cannondale, Wahoo, and POC, reflecting shared values and a commitment to the sport’s long-term growth.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, the move aims to strengthen the team’s resources and help it compete with the largest budgets in professional cycling.
The team’s goals include winning the Tour de France Femmes within three years, building a leading development pathway in professional cycling, and securing both men’s and women’s Tours de France within the next decade using riders developed through the EF Pro Cycling system.
“This is a unique opportunity for an organisation to partner with a global team and organisation such as EF. Together, we can build a team that extends far beyond traditional sponsorship, creating lasting value and impact for years to come,” said EF Education First Global Chief of Staff and EF Pro Cycling President, Maria Norrman.
The team will continue building around key riders such as Ben Healy, Magdeleine Vallieres, Kristen Faulkner, Richard Carapaz, and Neilson Powless, who have all signed long-term extensions.
EF Pro Cycling has consistently ranked among the top teams for social media engagement since 2017 and offers one of the strongest returns on investment for title partners in professional sports, according to Nielsen Analytics.
The team is backed by long-standing partners including EasyPost, Cannondale, Wahoo, and POC, reflecting shared values and a commitment to the sport’s long-term growth.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, January 30, 2026
SMART COMMUNICATIONS APPOINTS HEIDI JOHNSON AS CHIEF PRODUCT AND TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- Smart Communications, a technology company focused on helping highly regulated organisations engage in more meaningful customer conversations, has appointed Heidi Johnson as its Chief Product and Technology Officer, effective Jan 28.
In a statement, the company said Johnson will succeed Simon Tindal, who is retiring from Smart Communications, and will lead the company’s global innovation strategy as well as its product and technology organisation.
After more than 20 years with the company, including a foundational role in building the business, Tindal will transition from day-to-day operations and remain involved as a full-time advisor over the coming months to support a smooth transition.
Smart Communications Chief Executive Officer, Leigh Segall said Johnson brings a proven track record in building and scaling enterprise-grade platforms, with deep expertise across product, cloud, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) in highly regulated environments.
“With Heidi leading our product and technology organisation, we are well positioned to accelerate our innovation roadmap and AI vision,” said Segall.
Meanwhile, Johnson said Smart Communications is uniquely positioned at the intersection of deep domain expertise, trusted technology, and a clear vision for the future.
“The product suite is built to operate at enterprise scale, with security, compliance, and resilience at its core. I am excited to build on this foundation and accelerate our product and AI roadmap to deliver meaningful, compliant innovation for customers operating in highly regulated industries,” she added.
Johnson joins Smart Communications with over two decades of experience building and scaling end-user software as a service (SaaS) products, having held senior leadership roles at Bloomberg, IHS Markit, Komodo Health, and Carta.
She has also served as Chief Product Officer in Residence at Products That Count, providing expert insight to global product leaders, and is a mentor with MIT Sandbox, supporting the next generation of technology entrepreneurs.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, the company said Johnson will succeed Simon Tindal, who is retiring from Smart Communications, and will lead the company’s global innovation strategy as well as its product and technology organisation.
After more than 20 years with the company, including a foundational role in building the business, Tindal will transition from day-to-day operations and remain involved as a full-time advisor over the coming months to support a smooth transition.
Smart Communications Chief Executive Officer, Leigh Segall said Johnson brings a proven track record in building and scaling enterprise-grade platforms, with deep expertise across product, cloud, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) in highly regulated environments.
“With Heidi leading our product and technology organisation, we are well positioned to accelerate our innovation roadmap and AI vision,” said Segall.
Meanwhile, Johnson said Smart Communications is uniquely positioned at the intersection of deep domain expertise, trusted technology, and a clear vision for the future.
“The product suite is built to operate at enterprise scale, with security, compliance, and resilience at its core. I am excited to build on this foundation and accelerate our product and AI roadmap to deliver meaningful, compliant innovation for customers operating in highly regulated industries,” she added.
Johnson joins Smart Communications with over two decades of experience building and scaling end-user software as a service (SaaS) products, having held senior leadership roles at Bloomberg, IHS Markit, Komodo Health, and Carta.
She has also served as Chief Product Officer in Residence at Products That Count, providing expert insight to global product leaders, and is a mentor with MIT Sandbox, supporting the next generation of technology entrepreneurs.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Kioxia Introduces QLC UFS 4.1 Embedded Flash Memory Devices for High-Capacity Mobile Storage
QLC UFS 4.1 Embedded Flash Memory Devices
8th Generation BiCS FLASH™ Technology Delivers Performance, Efficiency Gains
TOKYO, Jan 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Kioxia Corporation, a world leader in memory solutions, today announced that it has begun sampling new Universal Flash Storage1 (UFS) Ver. 4.1 embedded memory devices with 4-bit-per-cell, quadruple-level cell (QLC) technology. Designed for read-intensive applications and high-capacity storage needs, the new devices are powered by Kioxia’s 8th generation BiCS FLASHTM 3D flash memory technology.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260127840829/en/
QLC UFS offers a higher bit density than traditional TLC UFS, making it suitable for mobile applications that require higher storage capacities. Advancements in controller technology and error correction have enabled QLC technology to achieve this while maintaining competitive performance.
Building on these advancements, the new Kioxia devices achieve substantial performance increases2. Kioxia’s QLC UFS boosts sequential write speeds by 25%, random read speeds by 90%, and random write speeds by 95% compared to the previous generation (UFS 4.0 / BiCS FLASH™6 QLC UFS)3. Write Amplification Factor (WAF) is also improved by max. 3.5× (with WriteBooster disabled).
Well-suited for smartphones and tablets, Kioxia QLC UFS also supports emerging product categories that demand higher capacity and performance, including PCs, networking, AR/VR, IoT, and AI-enabled devices.
Available in 512-gigabyte (GB) and 1-terabyte (TB) capacities, the new UFS 4.1 devices combine Kioxia’s advanced BiCS FLASH™ 3D flash memory and an integrated controller in a JEDEC-standard package. Kioxia’s 8th generation BiCS FLASH™ 3D flash memory introduces CMOS directly Bonded to Array (CBA) technology - an architectural innovation that marks a step-change in flash memory design.
Key features include:
- Compliant with the UFS 4.1 specification. UFS 4.1 is backward-compatible with UFS 4.0 and UFS 3.1.
- 8th generation Kioxia BiCS FLASH™ 3D flash memory
- WriteBooster support for significantly faster write speeds
- Reduced package size compared to the previous QLC UFS: 11×13 mm to 9×13 mm
Notes: | |
| (1) | Universal Flash Storage (UFS) is a product category for a class of embedded memory products built to the JEDEC UFS standard specification. Due to its serial interface, UFS supports full duplexing, which enables both concurrent reading and writing between the host processor and UFS device |
| (2) | Based on Kioxia internal testing |
| (3) | 512GB product, when WriteBooster is enabled |
- In every mention of a Kioxia product: Product density is identified based on the density of memory chip(s) within the Product, not the amount of memory capacity available for data storage by the end user. Consumer-usable capacity will be less due to overhead data areas, formatting, bad blocks, and other constraints, and may also vary based on the host device and application. For details, please refer to applicable product specifications. The definition of 1KB = 2^10 bytes = 1,024 bytes. The definition of 1Gb = 2^30 bits = 1,073,741,824 bits. The definition of 1GB = 2^30 bytes = 1,073,741,824 bytes. 1Tb = 2^40 bits = 1,099,511,627,776 bits.
- 1 Gbps is calculated as 1,000,000,000 bits/s. Read and write speeds are the best values obtained in a specific test environment at Kioxia and Kioxia warrants neither read nor write speeds in individual devices. Read and write speed may vary depending on device used and file size read or written.
- Company names, product names and service names may be trademarks of third-party companies.
About Kioxia
Kioxia is a world leader in memory solutions, dedicated to the development, production and sale of flash memory and solid-state drives (SSDs). In April 2017, its predecessor Toshiba Memory was spun off from Toshiba Corporation, the company that invented NAND flash memory in 1987. Kioxia is committed to uplifting the world with “memory” by offering products, services and systems that create choice for customers and memory-based value for society. Kioxia's innovative 3D flash memory technology, BiCS FLASH™, is shaping the future of storage in high-density applications, including advanced smartphones, PCs, automotive systems, data centers and generative AI systems.
*Information in this document, including product prices and specifications, content of services and contact information, is correct on the date of the announcement but is subject to change without prior notice.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260127840829/en/
Contact
Media Inquiries:
Kioxia Corporation
Promotion Management Division
Satoshi Shindo
Tel: +81-3-6478-2404
Source : Kioxia Corporation
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
CHINA'S ANTA SPORTS TO BUY 29 PCT STAKE IN PUMA, DRIVING GLOBAL EXPANSION
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 27 (Bernama) -- ANTA Sports Products Limited (ANTA Sports) has reached a share purchase agreement with Groupe Artémis, the Pinault family’s investment company, to acquire a 29.06 per cent stake in PUMA SE for 1.5 billion euros in cash. (1 Euro = RM4.70)
According to a statement, the transaction marks a major step in ANTA Sports’ globalisation strategy and is expected to close by the end of 2026 pending regulatory approvals and will be fully funded from ANTA Sports’ internal cash resources.
ANTA Sports Board Chairman, Ding Shizhong said the partnership will allow both companies to unlock PUMA’s potential and accelerate ANTA Sports’ international expansion.
“This will further accelerate ANTA Sports’ globalisation and help drive the next chapter of growth for the global sports markets, including China – creating lasting value for both companies’ consumers and shareholders worldwide,” said Ding.
ANTA Sports, with over 35 years in the sporting goods industry, has established a leading position in China and expanded across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Europe. The company has extensive experience managing multiple international brands and revitalising brand value, including through its “Brand + Retail” business model.
PUMA is known globally for its heritage and sports portfolio, spanning football, running, training, basketball, and motorsport.
ANTA Sports plans to seek representation on PUMA’s Supervisory Board while preserving the brand’s identity and independence, with no current plans for a full takeover.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, the transaction marks a major step in ANTA Sports’ globalisation strategy and is expected to close by the end of 2026 pending regulatory approvals and will be fully funded from ANTA Sports’ internal cash resources.
ANTA Sports Board Chairman, Ding Shizhong said the partnership will allow both companies to unlock PUMA’s potential and accelerate ANTA Sports’ international expansion.
“This will further accelerate ANTA Sports’ globalisation and help drive the next chapter of growth for the global sports markets, including China – creating lasting value for both companies’ consumers and shareholders worldwide,” said Ding.
ANTA Sports, with over 35 years in the sporting goods industry, has established a leading position in China and expanded across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Europe. The company has extensive experience managing multiple international brands and revitalising brand value, including through its “Brand + Retail” business model.
PUMA is known globally for its heritage and sports portfolio, spanning football, running, training, basketball, and motorsport.
ANTA Sports plans to seek representation on PUMA’s Supervisory Board while preserving the brand’s identity and independence, with no current plans for a full takeover.
-- BERNAMA
Sunday, January 25, 2026
CIMB Islamic commits RM20 million to advance environmental conservation nationwide
Champions nature and biodiversity conservation, environmental education and community empowerment initiatives nationwide through EcoSave-i
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB Islamic” or “the Bank”) recently committed RM20 million to drive environmental conservation and restoration initiatives across Malaysia from 2026 to 2030. The renewed pledge, channelled through the Bank’s flagship EcoSave-i savings account (“EcoSave-i), underscores CIMB Islamic’s long-term dedication to responsible finance, community empowerment, environmental education and conservation, aligned with CIMB Group’s purpose in advancing customers and society.
The commitment was formalised at the CIMB Islamic Green Showcase, together with nature conservation partners including Amanah Warisan Negara (“AWAN”), The Habitat Foundation, Reef Check Malaysia, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (“UPSI”), Malaysia Nature Society, WWF- Malaysia, Malaysia Forest Fund, Forest House, Leap Spiral, Your Idea Maker, Free Tree Society and Penang Institute. The Bank also renewed its agreement with AWAN, the primary custodian of Taman Tugu, for the continuation of the Taman Tugu Adoption and Nature Education Programme for another two years.
The investment scales up CIMB Islamic’s growing portfolio of nature conservation, biodiversity protection and community-led environmental programmes across eight states including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Johor, Terengganu and Sabah. Through strategic partnerships with nature conservation partners, academic institutions and community groups, CIMB Islamic effectively channels funds into meaningful programmes that strengthen long term ecosystem resilience and sustain the livelihoods of the local communities.
Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic said, “Our mission to advance customers and society is built on environmental stewardship and community resilience. Through EcoSave‑i, we operationalise the Shariah principles by integrating sustainability into everyday banking practices. The RM20 million investment reaffirms our belief that sustainability is the fundamental lens through which we allocate capital. By embedding these principles into our core financial offerings, we are supporting development that is inclusive, responsible and ecologically resilient for generations to come.”
“We are also pleased to extend our support with 12 nature conservation partners, including AWAN, to support a range of impactful environmental initiatives nationwide. As part of this, CIMB Islamic will continue its support for the Taman Tugu Adoption and Nature Education Programme for another two years, reaffirming our commitment to Taman Tugu and expanding the programme’s impact through enhanced outreach to schools and B40 communities. Over the years, Taman Tugu has transformed into a vital sanctuary for nature-based learning and recreation, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and easily accessible to the public, offering Malaysians a unique space to reconnect with our natural heritage and fostering a strong sense of shared responsibility toward nature conservation.”
The refreshed commitment through EcoSave-i enables CIMB Islamic to expand its support from the Peninsula to East Malaysia. In the northern corridors, the Bank continues to strengthen biodiversity efforts within the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve and Royal Belum State Park, while extending forest restoration and human-elephant conflict mitigation in Ulu Muda, Kedah. Central to its agenda is the protection of the Central Forest Spine. This includes initiatives within the Klang Valley such as the UPSI Edu-Forest initiative, the Rantaian Urban Green Space project, and the Penjaga Gunung Project, which empowers Orang Asli youth as the next generation of forest stewards.
In Terengganu, the Bank is deepening its footprint in Setiu, alongside coastal and coral rehabilitation efforts in Redang, Tioman and the Mersing islands. In Sabah, the Bank continues to support initiatives such as the Babagon Water Catchment and the Ulu Kalumpang Rehabilitation Programme, which focus on long-term watershed protection and restoration of wetland habitats, while empowering indigenous communities with sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Through these diverse initiatives, EcoSave-i serves as a meaningful example of how Islamic finance is able to mobilise capital for environmental sustainability. Anchored in principles of social and ecological value creation, CIMB continues to deliver lasting positive impact for the environment while ensuring underserved groups are included in the transition towards a greener economy.
EcoSave-i is Malaysia’s first environmentally focused Islamic savings account, designed to support conservation initiatives and forms a key component of CIMB Group’s broader Green, Social, Sustainable Impact Products and Services (“GSSIPS”) framework, which aims to mobilise RM300 billion in sustainable financing by 2030. Through EcoSave-i, CIMB Islamic contributes 0.2% of the total average portfolio balance per annum from the Bank’s own funds* towards environmental projects, enabling the public to contribute and support these conservation initiatives by opening an account online or at any CIMB branch nationwide. Customers who maintain a monthly average balance of RM5,000 without over-the-counter transactions are eligible to receive a RM5 monthly cash incentive.
For more information on EcoSave-i, please visit http://www.cimb.com.my/ecosave.
* Subject to maximum amount (if any) as stated in the product T&C
About CIMB
CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM79.0 billion as at 30 September 2025. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present across ASEAN in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines.
Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 571 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 30 September 2025. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its award- winning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 91.45% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.83% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.
Link to photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10uI0LguJ3dv2i1MhXE1WuKcx589Slnap
Photo Caption:
Photo 1: CIMB Islamic commits RM20 million, channeled through 12 partners to drive environmental conservation and restoration initiatives across Malaysia, at the CIMB Islamic Green Showcase powered by EcoSave-i.
Photo 2: (From left) Fizulin Mohamed Zin, Senior Vice President, Corporate & Support Services, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Datin Azlina Mahmad, Chairperson of CIMB Islamic, and Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic, planted trees at Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with the CIMB Islamic Green Showcase powered by EcoSave-i event.
SOURCE: CIMB Group
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Anis Azharuddin / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com
--BERNAMA
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB Islamic” or “the Bank”) recently committed RM20 million to drive environmental conservation and restoration initiatives across Malaysia from 2026 to 2030. The renewed pledge, channelled through the Bank’s flagship EcoSave-i savings account (“EcoSave-i), underscores CIMB Islamic’s long-term dedication to responsible finance, community empowerment, environmental education and conservation, aligned with CIMB Group’s purpose in advancing customers and society.
The commitment was formalised at the CIMB Islamic Green Showcase, together with nature conservation partners including Amanah Warisan Negara (“AWAN”), The Habitat Foundation, Reef Check Malaysia, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (“UPSI”), Malaysia Nature Society, WWF- Malaysia, Malaysia Forest Fund, Forest House, Leap Spiral, Your Idea Maker, Free Tree Society and Penang Institute. The Bank also renewed its agreement with AWAN, the primary custodian of Taman Tugu, for the continuation of the Taman Tugu Adoption and Nature Education Programme for another two years.
The investment scales up CIMB Islamic’s growing portfolio of nature conservation, biodiversity protection and community-led environmental programmes across eight states including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Johor, Terengganu and Sabah. Through strategic partnerships with nature conservation partners, academic institutions and community groups, CIMB Islamic effectively channels funds into meaningful programmes that strengthen long term ecosystem resilience and sustain the livelihoods of the local communities.
Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic said, “Our mission to advance customers and society is built on environmental stewardship and community resilience. Through EcoSave‑i, we operationalise the Shariah principles by integrating sustainability into everyday banking practices. The RM20 million investment reaffirms our belief that sustainability is the fundamental lens through which we allocate capital. By embedding these principles into our core financial offerings, we are supporting development that is inclusive, responsible and ecologically resilient for generations to come.”
“We are also pleased to extend our support with 12 nature conservation partners, including AWAN, to support a range of impactful environmental initiatives nationwide. As part of this, CIMB Islamic will continue its support for the Taman Tugu Adoption and Nature Education Programme for another two years, reaffirming our commitment to Taman Tugu and expanding the programme’s impact through enhanced outreach to schools and B40 communities. Over the years, Taman Tugu has transformed into a vital sanctuary for nature-based learning and recreation, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and easily accessible to the public, offering Malaysians a unique space to reconnect with our natural heritage and fostering a strong sense of shared responsibility toward nature conservation.”
The refreshed commitment through EcoSave-i enables CIMB Islamic to expand its support from the Peninsula to East Malaysia. In the northern corridors, the Bank continues to strengthen biodiversity efforts within the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve and Royal Belum State Park, while extending forest restoration and human-elephant conflict mitigation in Ulu Muda, Kedah. Central to its agenda is the protection of the Central Forest Spine. This includes initiatives within the Klang Valley such as the UPSI Edu-Forest initiative, the Rantaian Urban Green Space project, and the Penjaga Gunung Project, which empowers Orang Asli youth as the next generation of forest stewards.
In Terengganu, the Bank is deepening its footprint in Setiu, alongside coastal and coral rehabilitation efforts in Redang, Tioman and the Mersing islands. In Sabah, the Bank continues to support initiatives such as the Babagon Water Catchment and the Ulu Kalumpang Rehabilitation Programme, which focus on long-term watershed protection and restoration of wetland habitats, while empowering indigenous communities with sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Through these diverse initiatives, EcoSave-i serves as a meaningful example of how Islamic finance is able to mobilise capital for environmental sustainability. Anchored in principles of social and ecological value creation, CIMB continues to deliver lasting positive impact for the environment while ensuring underserved groups are included in the transition towards a greener economy.
EcoSave-i is Malaysia’s first environmentally focused Islamic savings account, designed to support conservation initiatives and forms a key component of CIMB Group’s broader Green, Social, Sustainable Impact Products and Services (“GSSIPS”) framework, which aims to mobilise RM300 billion in sustainable financing by 2030. Through EcoSave-i, CIMB Islamic contributes 0.2% of the total average portfolio balance per annum from the Bank’s own funds* towards environmental projects, enabling the public to contribute and support these conservation initiatives by opening an account online or at any CIMB branch nationwide. Customers who maintain a monthly average balance of RM5,000 without over-the-counter transactions are eligible to receive a RM5 monthly cash incentive.
For more information on EcoSave-i, please visit http://www.cimb.com.my/ecosave.
* Subject to maximum amount (if any) as stated in the product T&C
About CIMB
CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM79.0 billion as at 30 September 2025. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present across ASEAN in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines.
Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 571 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 30 September 2025. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its award- winning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 91.45% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.83% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.
Link to photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10uI0LguJ3dv2i1MhXE1WuKcx589Slnap
Photo Caption:
Photo 1: CIMB Islamic commits RM20 million, channeled through 12 partners to drive environmental conservation and restoration initiatives across Malaysia, at the CIMB Islamic Green Showcase powered by EcoSave-i.
Photo 2: (From left) Fizulin Mohamed Zin, Senior Vice President, Corporate & Support Services, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Datin Azlina Mahmad, Chairperson of CIMB Islamic, and Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic, planted trees at Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with the CIMB Islamic Green Showcase powered by EcoSave-i event.
SOURCE: CIMB Group
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Anis Azharuddin / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com
--BERNAMA
MALAYSIA’S HEALTH-CONSCIOUS INNOVATION AND PREMIUM CONVENIENCE TO TAKE CENTER STAGE AT GULFOOD 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is leading a delegation of over 120 Malaysian exhibitors in the world’s largest annual food and beverage (F&B) trade exhibition, Gulfood 2026. Taking place from 26 to 30 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), the Malaysia Pavilion will showcase a new era of F&B excellence centered on the twin pillars of health- conscious innovation and premium convenience.
Abu Bakar Yusof, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, said “ Malaysia’s presence at Gulfood 2026 for the 22nd edition marks a strategic milestone in the nation's trade relations with the Middle East, aligning with MATRADE’s own market diversification initiatives. Beyond showcasing products, the mission aims to demonstrate Malaysia’s capability as a 'Total Solution Provider' in the global F&B supply chain.”
“By merging gold-standard Halal integrity with cutting-edge food technology and a focus on sustainability, Malaysian brands are ensuring they remain the preferred choice for sourcing partners who value quality, innovation, and reliability.” Abu Bakar continued.
As the global Halal market is projected to reach USD5 trillion by 2030, Malaysia is leveraging its position as a global Halal leader to offer innovative products that meet the evolving demands of the modern, urban Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) consumers. This year’s participation highlights a strategic pivot from commodity exports to high-value downstream, processed food solutions. Malaysian brands are also proving that convenience and health can coexist under the gold standard of Halal integrity.
A dominant trend within the 2026 MATRADE contingent is the rise of “Gourmet Convenience.” With over 70 companies specialising in premium sauces and pastes and nearly 50 focusing on Ready-to-Eat (RTE) meals, Malaysia is positioning itself as a primary solution for the GCC’s busy professional demographic. These products utilise advanced retort and freezing technologies to deliver authentic, de-skilled culinary experiences that bring the complex flavours of Asia to Middle Eastern homes in minutes.
Responding to the GCC’s national health agendas, the Malaysia Pavilion will also feature a significant “Better-for-You” (BFY) segment. More than 40 exhibitors will showcase organic, non-GMO, gluten-free and plant-based products. From functional beverages and herbal-infused health drinks to low-glycemic snacks, Malaysia is redefining Halal as a standard that encompasses not only religious compliance but also holistic wellness and food safety.
In 2025, Malaysia’s processed food trade to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continued an upward trajectory, reaching a record high of RM2.52 billion, increased by 4.2 per cent. Exports in the same year were at RM2.42 billion and imports were registered at RM0.1 billion. With the UAE serving as a strategic gateway, MATRADE expects Gulfood 2026 to generate significant export sales and forge long-term strategic partnerships between Malaysian SMEs and global distributors.
If you are interested to visit the Malaysia Pavilion at Gulfood 2026 or set a meeting with the Malaysian exhibitors, email dubai@matrade.gov.my.
About MATRADE
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) was established on 1 March 1993 as the national trade promotional arm under Malaysia's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). MATRADE's primary role is to assist Malaysian exporters in developing and expanding their export markets. Aligned with Malaysia's commercial diplomacy efforts, MATRADE is the nation's trade facilitator and champion of Malaysian-made products and services on the global stage.
SOURCE: Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ms. Aninawati Saleh
Head of Corporate Communication
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
Tel (Direct): 03 – 6207 7077 (7826)
Email: communication@matrade.gov.my
--BERNAMA
Abu Bakar Yusof, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, said “ Malaysia’s presence at Gulfood 2026 for the 22nd edition marks a strategic milestone in the nation's trade relations with the Middle East, aligning with MATRADE’s own market diversification initiatives. Beyond showcasing products, the mission aims to demonstrate Malaysia’s capability as a 'Total Solution Provider' in the global F&B supply chain.”
“By merging gold-standard Halal integrity with cutting-edge food technology and a focus on sustainability, Malaysian brands are ensuring they remain the preferred choice for sourcing partners who value quality, innovation, and reliability.” Abu Bakar continued.
As the global Halal market is projected to reach USD5 trillion by 2030, Malaysia is leveraging its position as a global Halal leader to offer innovative products that meet the evolving demands of the modern, urban Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) consumers. This year’s participation highlights a strategic pivot from commodity exports to high-value downstream, processed food solutions. Malaysian brands are also proving that convenience and health can coexist under the gold standard of Halal integrity.
A dominant trend within the 2026 MATRADE contingent is the rise of “Gourmet Convenience.” With over 70 companies specialising in premium sauces and pastes and nearly 50 focusing on Ready-to-Eat (RTE) meals, Malaysia is positioning itself as a primary solution for the GCC’s busy professional demographic. These products utilise advanced retort and freezing technologies to deliver authentic, de-skilled culinary experiences that bring the complex flavours of Asia to Middle Eastern homes in minutes.
Responding to the GCC’s national health agendas, the Malaysia Pavilion will also feature a significant “Better-for-You” (BFY) segment. More than 40 exhibitors will showcase organic, non-GMO, gluten-free and plant-based products. From functional beverages and herbal-infused health drinks to low-glycemic snacks, Malaysia is redefining Halal as a standard that encompasses not only religious compliance but also holistic wellness and food safety.
In 2025, Malaysia’s processed food trade to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continued an upward trajectory, reaching a record high of RM2.52 billion, increased by 4.2 per cent. Exports in the same year were at RM2.42 billion and imports were registered at RM0.1 billion. With the UAE serving as a strategic gateway, MATRADE expects Gulfood 2026 to generate significant export sales and forge long-term strategic partnerships between Malaysian SMEs and global distributors.
If you are interested to visit the Malaysia Pavilion at Gulfood 2026 or set a meeting with the Malaysian exhibitors, email dubai@matrade.gov.my.
About MATRADE
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) was established on 1 March 1993 as the national trade promotional arm under Malaysia's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). MATRADE's primary role is to assist Malaysian exporters in developing and expanding their export markets. Aligned with Malaysia's commercial diplomacy efforts, MATRADE is the nation's trade facilitator and champion of Malaysian-made products and services on the global stage.
SOURCE: Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ms. Aninawati Saleh
Head of Corporate Communication
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
Tel (Direct): 03 – 6207 7077 (7826)
Email: communication@matrade.gov.my
--BERNAMA
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