Formerly known as the Grievance Mechanism Committee, HPPSC focuses on resolving systemic issues and improving communications between insurers, takaful operators and healthcare partners
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- The Healthcare Partners Protocol & Solutions Committee (HPPSC), formerly known as the Grievance Mechanism Committee, continues to strengthen industry collaboration to enhance medical claims management, address systemic issues and improve communications between insurers, takaful operators and healthcare partners. Established as a joint multistakeholder platform, the Committee addresses common issues relating to medical claims and related guarantee letter (GL) processes. It provides a structured platform for constructive engagement, enabling stakeholders to identify root causes, develop practical solutions and promote greater transparency across the private healthcare insurance financing ecosystem.
The renaming of the Committee to HPPSC reflects its expanded and more proactive role in identifying issues, developing solutions and driving implementation through collaborative protocols and best practices.
This evolution marks a renewed commitment by the healthcare and insurance/takaful industry and its associations – Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM), Malaysian Takaful Associations (MTA) and General Insurance Association of Malaysia, supported by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), to strengthen transparency and fairness in medical claims management.
The HPPSC’s mandate includes co-developing claims protocols, resolving systemic issues, improving communications, fostering collaboration, and recommending practical best practices that enhance operational efficiency and patient experience.
The Committee reviews issues received through medical professional bodies and industry associations with the objective of bridging knowledge gaps and providing broad guidance aligned with fair treatment of policyholders and ethical patient management.
The Committee comprises representatives from both providers and payors, including the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia (APHM), insurance and takaful operators (ITOs), and third-party administrators (TPAs), with observers from MOH and BNM. It is co-chaired by representatives from the Malaysia Medical Association (MMA) and the Life Insurance Association (LIAM) and supported by the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) and Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA), reflecting a shared commitment to collaborative problem-solving.
In line with its focus on patient-centric outcomes, the Committee has recently expanded its membership to include a patient advocate, Manvir Victor, to ensure that patient perspectives are represented in discussions and solutions.
“I am deeply privileged to be part of the HPPSC, representing the voices of patients and the wider public. This role carries a responsibility to ensure that discussions around the private healthcare ecosystem translate into meaningful improvements in processes, access, and equity, so that quality care remains fair and sustainable.” said Manvir Victor.
Since its reactivation last November 2025, the Committee has convened several meetings and is currently focused on initiatives aimed at improving patient and policyholder/certificate holder experience, strengthening communications between healthcare providers and payors, and standardising processes and procedures related to medical claims and guarantee letters. These initiatives also include the establishment of dedicated medical professional hotlines by ITOs and TPAs, as well as improving transparency and streamlining the de-panelling process for doctors and hospitals.
Co-Chair of HPPSC, Dr Vasu Pillai Letchumanan of MMA, said “The Malaysian Medical Association welcomes the strengthened collaboration under the HPPSC. By enhancing protocols and streamlining medical claims management, this initiative will not only reduce administrative burdens for healthcare professionals but also ensure patients receive timely and efficient care. We look forward to continuing our partnership to uphold high standards of healthcare delivery.”
Meanwhile, President of APHM, Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh added,” From a patient perspective, initiatives like the HPPSC’s collaborative approach are critical. Streamlined claims management means less stress and faster access to treatment, ensuring patients can focus on recovery rather than paperwork. We applaud the commitment of all stakeholders in putting patients’ needs at the centre of this process.”
Commenting on the progress to date, Mark O’Dell, Chief Executive Officer of LIAM and Co-Chair of HPSSC, who represents the ITOs said, “The HPPSC has already resulted in improved communication and collaboration amongst private healthcare stakeholders. These early engagements are an important step towards addressing shared challenges in a constructive and sustainable manner.”
The insurance and takaful industry remain steadfast in its commitment to the HPPSC as a key platform for advancing collaborative solutions and promoting transparency across Malaysia’s private healthcare ecosystem. By working closely with healthcare providers patient and policyholders, the industry is actively addressing systemic challenges, building trust, and supporting fair and timely access to quality care for all policyholders.
Issued by: MMA, APHM, LIAM, MTA and PIAM
ABOUT MMA
The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) is the largest professional body representing doctors in Malaysia. Established in 1959, we currently have more than 17,000 members across various specialties and practice settings nationwide. MMA is committed to advancing the medical profession, advocating for healthcare improvements, and supporting continuous professional development for doctors — all with the aim of ensuring better, safer, and more accessible care for patients throughout the country.
ABOUT APHM
The Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia is more commonly known as APHM. This is an Association representing private hospitals and medical centers in Malaysia. The Association has been in existence since 1972 and currently has 169 members throughout Malaysia.
APHM member hospitals are key partners with the public sector healthcare providers in bringing comprehensive medical care to all Malaysians through its member hospitals.
The APHM plays an important role in its objective of helping to raise standards of medical care within the country. Some of the activities geared towards this objective include :-
• Ensuring patient safety and quality as a member of the National Patient Safety Council, the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health and the Malaysian Productivity Council.
• Working dialogues with public sector agencies including Ministry of Health Malaysia
• Participation in National working groups such as MPC, MITI and MATRADE.
• Training programs for all Healthcare providers which include the yearly Conference and Exhibition and regular smaller group workshops on clinical and administrative / managerial topics.
• Promotion of Health Tourism Activities regionally and internationally with the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC)
ABOUT LIFE INSURANCE ASSOCIATION MALAYSIA (LIAM)
Formed in 1974, the Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM) is a trade association registered under the Societies Act 1966. LIAM has a total of 16 members, of which 14 are life insurance companies and 2 life reinsurance companies. LIAM’s objectives are to promote a progressive life insurance industry; to enhance public understanding and appreciation for life insurance; to upgrade the image and professionalism of the life insurance industry and to support the regulatory authorities in developing a strong industry. Visit www.liam.org.my for details.
ABOUT MALAYSIAN TAKAFUL ASSOCIATION (MTA)
Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) was established on November 2002 under the Societies Act 1966. It is a trade association representing all 19 licensed Takaful and Retakaful operators in the country. The objectives and the powers of MTA are to promote the interests of its members and to inculcate the implementation of self-regulation within the Takaful industry. More information on MTA can be obtained from its website: www.takaful4all.org
Facebook:facebook.com/MalaysianTakafulAssociation/
Instagram: instagram.com/malaysiantakafulassociation
ABOUT PERSATUAN INSURANS AM MALAYSIA (PIAM)
The history of PIAM originated from the establishment of various insurance and tariff associations set up in 1885 that played a role as a collective voice of the insurance industry in Malaya and Singapore shortly after the Independence of Malaya in 1957. In June 1961, the Insurance Association of Federation of Malaya was formed to maintain tariff insurance legislations and promote sound insurance practices. For the first time, an Association was established in Kuala Lumpur to safeguard the country's general insurance interest. Subsequently, PIAM was established in May 1979 as a statutory trade association recognised by the Government of Malaysia for all registered insurance business. Currently, PIAM has 23 member companies comprising direct general insurance and reinsurance companies operating in Malaysia.
To learn more about PIAM, visit www.piam.org.my
Facebook: facebook.com/PersatuanInsuransAmMalaysia
Instagram: instagram.com/piam_malaysia/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@piam_malaysia
SOURCE: MMA, APHM, LIAM, MTA and PIAM
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MMA:
Name: Mr Darren Atkinson
Press Officer
Malaysian Medical Association
Level 4, MMA House
124 Jalan Pahang
53000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03 4041 1375 / +60 12-295 5042
Fax: 03 4041 8187
Email: secretary@mma.org.my
Website: mma.org.my
APHM:
Name: Muhammad Badri Hussin
CEO
Associations of Private Hospitals of Malaysia
A-17-01 Menara UOA Bangsar
5, Jalan Bangsar Utama 1
59000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 22841701
Email : badri@aphm.org.my / aphm@aphm.org.my
Website : https://aphm.org.my
LIAM:
Name: Puan Norizan Hassan
Head of Corporate Communications
Life Insurance Association of Malaysia
Level 6, AICB Building
No. 10, Jalan Dato' Onn
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603-2691 6168 / 6628 / 8068
Email: liaminfo@liam.org.my
Website: www.liam.org.my
Facebook: LIAM – Life Insurance Association of Malaysia
Instagram: @liamalaysia
MTA:
Name: Puan Siti Nor Kamariah Ishak
Head, Corporate Communications
18th Floor, Main Block
Menara Takaful Malaysia
Jalan Sultan Sulaiman
50000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 018-355 1427
Fax: +603-2031 8170
Email: mtasecretariat@malaysiantakaful.com.my
PIAM:
Name: Ms. Susanna G. Simon
Head of Corporate Communications
Persatuan Insurans Am Malaysia (PIAM)
Wisma PIAM
150, Jalan Tun Sambanthan
50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan
Tel: 03-2274 7399
Fax: 03-2274 5910
Email: susanna.simon@piam.org.my
Website: www.piam.org.my
--BERNAMA
Friday, January 23, 2026
Thursday, January 22, 2026
JAPAN’S MEIJI YASUDA CREDIT RATINGS AFFIRMED SUPERIOR - AM BEST
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A+ (Superior) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “aa-” (Superior) of Japan’s Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company (Meiji Yasuda).
The outlook of these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting Meiji Yasuda’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, favourable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
Meiji Yasuda’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, and is supported further by its solid capital base and conservative financial leverage.
Following market-driven fluctuations in unrealised gains on securities, the company’s absolute capital retreated from its peak of 5.8 trillion Japanese yen between March 2024 and March 2025, though it had since recovered by September 2025. (100 Japanese yen = RM2.54)
According to AM Best in a statement, Meiji Yasuda’s substantial equity holdings continue to present a degree of equity risk; however, the company possesses ample capital buffers to absorb such risks.
Capital management is conducted through a disciplined framework incorporating economic-based metrics such as the economic solvency ratio and group surplus, complemented by a sound asset-liability management strategy.
In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 (fiscal year 2024), Meiji Yasuda delivered a strong and resilient operating performance, with consolidated insurance premiums of 3.4 trillion Japanese yen and a base profit of 626 billion Japanese yen, supported by higher investment-related gains and a stronger contribution from its overseas operations.
One of Japan’s largest private life insurance companies, Meiji Yasuda maintains a leading position in the domestic group insurance segment. Its ongoing efforts to improve the quality and productivity of the agency channel and strong sales of the bancassurance channel continue to support revenue growth and its position in the domestic market.
-- BERNAMA
The outlook of these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting Meiji Yasuda’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, favourable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
Meiji Yasuda’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, and is supported further by its solid capital base and conservative financial leverage.
Following market-driven fluctuations in unrealised gains on securities, the company’s absolute capital retreated from its peak of 5.8 trillion Japanese yen between March 2024 and March 2025, though it had since recovered by September 2025. (100 Japanese yen = RM2.54)
According to AM Best in a statement, Meiji Yasuda’s substantial equity holdings continue to present a degree of equity risk; however, the company possesses ample capital buffers to absorb such risks.
Capital management is conducted through a disciplined framework incorporating economic-based metrics such as the economic solvency ratio and group surplus, complemented by a sound asset-liability management strategy.
In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 (fiscal year 2024), Meiji Yasuda delivered a strong and resilient operating performance, with consolidated insurance premiums of 3.4 trillion Japanese yen and a base profit of 626 billion Japanese yen, supported by higher investment-related gains and a stronger contribution from its overseas operations.
One of Japan’s largest private life insurance companies, Meiji Yasuda maintains a leading position in the domestic group insurance segment. Its ongoing efforts to improve the quality and productivity of the agency channel and strong sales of the bancassurance channel continue to support revenue growth and its position in the domestic market.
-- BERNAMA
DAYONE UNVEILS 560 MW FINLAND DATA CENTRE EXPANSION
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- DayOne, a Singapore-based global data centre developer and operator, announced early-stage plans for a significant data centre project in Klaukkala, Nurmijärvi, Finland.
In a statement, the company said the Municipality of Nurmijärvi has concurrently begun handling the preliminary sale of the data centre site to DayOne.
This new project further solidifies DayOne’s long-term commitment to Finland’s digital ecosystem, building on its previously announced approximately 1.2 billion euros investment in the Lahti project and a joint venture in Kouvola. (1 Euro = RM4.71)
The Nurmijärvi data centre is tentatively slated for a phased development with a potential of up to 560 megawatts (MW) of total grid power.
The project is expected to create substantial employment opportunities, estimated to employ up to 1,000 workers during its peak construction phase. Long-term operations will support the gradual ramp-up of up to 700 skilled positions.
DayOne has signed a site securing and development agreement with Fortum, Finland’s leading energy producer. Under the agreement, Fortum will assist the project’s development by facilitating zoning processes and grid connection planning.
The continued development and construction are subject to various municipal, regulatory, and government approvals, including a required permit from the Ministry of Defence.
In line with Finland’s national objectives for sustainable digital infrastructure, the project is planned as a high value-adding data centre.
Beyond the facility, DayOne is preparing a framework agreement to support the local community in Nurmijärvi. This includes plans for cooperation with educational institutions such as Aalto University, as well as support for regional environmental protection and culture initiatives.
The expansion follows DayOne’s recent success in securing major funding, including a mezzanine financing facility of up to one billion euro from global investment firm Brookfield and a global sovereign investor in December 2025, and over US$2.0 billion in Series C equity financing secured in January 2026.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, the company said the Municipality of Nurmijärvi has concurrently begun handling the preliminary sale of the data centre site to DayOne.
This new project further solidifies DayOne’s long-term commitment to Finland’s digital ecosystem, building on its previously announced approximately 1.2 billion euros investment in the Lahti project and a joint venture in Kouvola. (1 Euro = RM4.71)
The Nurmijärvi data centre is tentatively slated for a phased development with a potential of up to 560 megawatts (MW) of total grid power.
The project is expected to create substantial employment opportunities, estimated to employ up to 1,000 workers during its peak construction phase. Long-term operations will support the gradual ramp-up of up to 700 skilled positions.
DayOne has signed a site securing and development agreement with Fortum, Finland’s leading energy producer. Under the agreement, Fortum will assist the project’s development by facilitating zoning processes and grid connection planning.
The continued development and construction are subject to various municipal, regulatory, and government approvals, including a required permit from the Ministry of Defence.
In line with Finland’s national objectives for sustainable digital infrastructure, the project is planned as a high value-adding data centre.
Beyond the facility, DayOne is preparing a framework agreement to support the local community in Nurmijärvi. This includes plans for cooperation with educational institutions such as Aalto University, as well as support for regional environmental protection and culture initiatives.
The expansion follows DayOne’s recent success in securing major funding, including a mezzanine financing facility of up to one billion euro from global investment firm Brookfield and a global sovereign investor in December 2025, and over US$2.0 billion in Series C equity financing secured in January 2026.
-- BERNAMA
SAUDI ARABIA HIGHLIGHTS HUMAN CAPITAL INVESTMENT AT WEF 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- Human capital is the key driver for a competitive modern economy, and economies must prioritise investment in people to remain competitive in the future.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United States (US), Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, said empowering people is central to sustainable economic growth.
“When you place the right people in the right place at the right time, absolute magic happens. The Kingdom is the place, we have the people, and the time is now,” she said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister, Ahmed A. Alkhateeb said the Kingdom reached its Vision 2030 target of welcoming 100 million tourists annually seven years ahead of schedule and has continued to exceed the target since 2023, alongside sustained growth in tourist spending year on year.
The Ministry of Economy and Planning also announced plans to launch the SUSTAIN Platform in beta in 2026 during a NextOn talk at Saudi House.
Developed in collaboration with WEF and Bain & Company, SUSTAIN is an artificial intelligence-enabled matchmaking and partnership platform designed to strengthen cross-sector collaboration and accelerate the delivery of sustainable development initiatives.
In addition, the Quality of Life Program Center and UN-Habitat jointly announced the outcomes of the Quality of Life Initiative, a global platform supporting a people-centred approach to urban development.
Separately, SDM announced a partnership with Weill Cornell Medicine – Cornell University under the Frontier Science for Human Health initiative, a Saudi–US space research collaboration focused on advancing innovative space and computational biology technologies for human health missions.
-- BERNAMA
PETRONAS DRIVES OFFSHORE SAFETY FORWARD THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS TO ENHANCE INDUSTRY STANDARDS
 |
| PETRONAS Senior Vice President of MPM, Datuk Ir. (Dr) Bacho Pilong said the introduction of OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 reflects the shared commitment to safety and integrity for offshore facilities. |
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS via Malaysia Petroleum Management (MPM), celebrated a landmark moment for the nation’s offshore oil and gas sector with the unveiling of the Offshore Self- Regulation Management System (OSRMS) 2.0 and the Guideline for Offshore Floating Facilities (GOFF) 2.0.
The launching ceremony, held on 8 Dec 2025, was officiated by PETRONAS Senior Vice President of MPM, Datuk Ir. (Dr) Bacho Pilong, Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) Director- General Tuan Ir. Haji Mohd Hatta B. Zakaria, and Kapten Nazri bin Abu Hassan, Representative for Director General of Marine, Malaysia Marine Department (MMD). The event held in Kuala Lumpur welcomed about 250 representatives from DOSH, MMD, Government agencies, PETRONAS, and Petroleum Arrangement Contractors (PACs).
Both the OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 enable self-regulation of offshore facilities, while PETRONAS manages and oversees the safety, integrity and reliability of offshore assets in Malaysian waters, in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health (Exemption for Plant Requiring Certificate of Fitness at the Place of Work of PETRONAS Within Maritime Zones) Order 2024 [P.U.(A)292]. These include new requirements that set updated standards for asset safety, integrity and compliance across PETRONAS’ facilities within the maritime zones.
The updates are aligned with the latest legislations and PETRONAS Governing Standards. These advancements represent a significant step forward in strengthening Malaysia’s offshore safety landscape while demonstrating the industry’s focus on continuous improvement and strong governance across offshore operations.
The launch of the management system and the guideline reflects the collective efforts of PETRONAS and government agencies including DOSH and MMD, as well as that of the PACs.
For PETRONAS, OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 provides greater operational flexibility and efficiency in managing offshore assets, strengthens PETRONAS’ reputation as a trusted regulator as well as reduces risk of major incidents, ensuring business continuity and cost competitive operations.
Senior Vice President of MPM, Datuk Ir. (Dr) Bacho Pilong in his keynote address, said, “The introduction of OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 marks more than a new chapter, it reflects our shared commitment to safety and integrity for offshore facilities. For more than a decade, the success of the OSR scheme has been driven by unwavering dedication and close collaboration between PETRONAS, DOSH, MMD, PACs and our industry partners.”
“Through partnership and perseverance, we have built a foundation of trust, transparency and accountability that will shape Malaysia’s offshore safety landscape for generations to come,” he added.
The collaboration between PETRONAS, DOSH and MMD aims to enhance regulatory efficiency and industry self-governance and additionally supports Malaysia’s energy transition goals by ensuring stronger energy security, modernised regulatory oversight, and improved HSE standards.
This aligns with Malaysia’s long-term vision of remaining a trusted global energy partner and supports PETRONAS’ aspiration by 2035, to be an integrated energy company serving the world’s energy and solutions needs safely, reliably and sustainably.
OSRMS was first introduced on 24 October 2013 following the gazettement of the Factories and Machinery (Exemption to Petroliam Nasional Berhad) Order 2013 P.U.(A) 106 on 28 March 2013. This marked an important step towards industry self-regulation, allowing PETRONAS to oversee the management of Certificated Machinery, now known as Plant Requiring Certificate of Fitness, within maritime zones. The OSR was later expanded to include floating facilities, leading to the launch of the GOFF on 4 February 2020 through a collaboration between PETRONAS, DOSH and MMD.
At the same event, the OSR Commemorative Book was also introduced, showcasing more than two decades of collaboration between PETRONAS and DOSH and tracing the evolution of self-regulation at Malaysia’s offshore facilities while celebrating the spirit of partnership and integrity that has shaped the nation’s offshore safety journey.
The occasion also unveiled the Seafarer Career Development and Competency Handbook, a joint initiative by PETRONAS, MMD and the Malaysia Offshore Support Vessel Owners’ Association (MOSVA) to support efforts to future-proof the offshore industry with skilled and competent workforce.
For more information on investment opportunities in Malaysia, please visit https://www.petronas.com/mpm.
Issued by
Media Management, Channels & Media Relations
Group Strategic Relations & Communications
PETRONAS
SOURCE: PETRONAS
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Hana Naz Harun
Tel: +60 10 | 455 3378
Email: hananazsulaeeqa.haru@petronas.com
--BERNAMA
The launching ceremony, held on 8 Dec 2025, was officiated by PETRONAS Senior Vice President of MPM, Datuk Ir. (Dr) Bacho Pilong, Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) Director- General Tuan Ir. Haji Mohd Hatta B. Zakaria, and Kapten Nazri bin Abu Hassan, Representative for Director General of Marine, Malaysia Marine Department (MMD). The event held in Kuala Lumpur welcomed about 250 representatives from DOSH, MMD, Government agencies, PETRONAS, and Petroleum Arrangement Contractors (PACs).
Both the OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 enable self-regulation of offshore facilities, while PETRONAS manages and oversees the safety, integrity and reliability of offshore assets in Malaysian waters, in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health (Exemption for Plant Requiring Certificate of Fitness at the Place of Work of PETRONAS Within Maritime Zones) Order 2024 [P.U.(A)292]. These include new requirements that set updated standards for asset safety, integrity and compliance across PETRONAS’ facilities within the maritime zones.
The updates are aligned with the latest legislations and PETRONAS Governing Standards. These advancements represent a significant step forward in strengthening Malaysia’s offshore safety landscape while demonstrating the industry’s focus on continuous improvement and strong governance across offshore operations.
The launch of the management system and the guideline reflects the collective efforts of PETRONAS and government agencies including DOSH and MMD, as well as that of the PACs.
For PETRONAS, OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 provides greater operational flexibility and efficiency in managing offshore assets, strengthens PETRONAS’ reputation as a trusted regulator as well as reduces risk of major incidents, ensuring business continuity and cost competitive operations.
Senior Vice President of MPM, Datuk Ir. (Dr) Bacho Pilong in his keynote address, said, “The introduction of OSRMS 2.0 and GOFF 2.0 marks more than a new chapter, it reflects our shared commitment to safety and integrity for offshore facilities. For more than a decade, the success of the OSR scheme has been driven by unwavering dedication and close collaboration between PETRONAS, DOSH, MMD, PACs and our industry partners.”
“Through partnership and perseverance, we have built a foundation of trust, transparency and accountability that will shape Malaysia’s offshore safety landscape for generations to come,” he added.
The collaboration between PETRONAS, DOSH and MMD aims to enhance regulatory efficiency and industry self-governance and additionally supports Malaysia’s energy transition goals by ensuring stronger energy security, modernised regulatory oversight, and improved HSE standards.
This aligns with Malaysia’s long-term vision of remaining a trusted global energy partner and supports PETRONAS’ aspiration by 2035, to be an integrated energy company serving the world’s energy and solutions needs safely, reliably and sustainably.
OSRMS was first introduced on 24 October 2013 following the gazettement of the Factories and Machinery (Exemption to Petroliam Nasional Berhad) Order 2013 P.U.(A) 106 on 28 March 2013. This marked an important step towards industry self-regulation, allowing PETRONAS to oversee the management of Certificated Machinery, now known as Plant Requiring Certificate of Fitness, within maritime zones. The OSR was later expanded to include floating facilities, leading to the launch of the GOFF on 4 February 2020 through a collaboration between PETRONAS, DOSH and MMD.
At the same event, the OSR Commemorative Book was also introduced, showcasing more than two decades of collaboration between PETRONAS and DOSH and tracing the evolution of self-regulation at Malaysia’s offshore facilities while celebrating the spirit of partnership and integrity that has shaped the nation’s offshore safety journey.
The occasion also unveiled the Seafarer Career Development and Competency Handbook, a joint initiative by PETRONAS, MMD and the Malaysia Offshore Support Vessel Owners’ Association (MOSVA) to support efforts to future-proof the offshore industry with skilled and competent workforce.
For more information on investment opportunities in Malaysia, please visit https://www.petronas.com/mpm.
Issued by
Media Management, Channels & Media Relations
Group Strategic Relations & Communications
PETRONAS
SOURCE: PETRONAS
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Hana Naz Harun
Tel: +60 10 | 455 3378
Email: hananazsulaeeqa.haru@petronas.com
--BERNAMA
CIMB achieves MSCI AAA rating and ranks #1 globally in WBA’s Financial System Benchmark
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Group”) has been upgraded from AA to AAA in the MSCI ESG Ratings, the highest possible rating. The upgrade reflects strengthened sustainability practices and disclosures, particularly in the consumer protection and workforce management pillars. Furthermore, CIMB maintained a robust environmental score of 9.2, a testament to its disciplined management of environmental risks within its credit underwriting process.
MSCI ESG Ratings evaluate how well companies manage the environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) risks and opportunities specific to their industry that may affect financial performance. Using rules-based methodologies, MSCI assesses thousands of global issuers by combining corporate disclosures with alternative data sources. Each company is then assigned a rating from AAA to CCC, reflecting its resilience to these risks relative to its industry peers.
Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer, CIMB Group said, “Our recent achievements reflect our efforts in embedding sustainability more deeply into our core operations, ensuring our foundational frameworks become part of our daily decision-making. This approach is integral to our Forward30 strategy, where sustainability is not treated as a standalone agenda, but as a key driver of how we grow and deliver impact.
While we are encouraged by the MSCI AAA rating and the recognition from the World Benchmarking Alliance, we view these benchmarks primarily as indicators that our strategy is moving in the right direction. What truly differentiates CIMB is our ability to translate ambition into execution by supporting our clients through the transition and delivering meaningful, real-economy impact across ASEAN, in line with our purpose of advancing customers and society.”
CIMB was also ranked #1 globally among financial institutions in the 2025 Financial System Benchmark by the World Benchmarking Alliance (“WBA”), as well as securing the #2 spot globally for Inclusive Finance, in recognition of its efforts to expand access to financial services and support a just transition that ensures socio-economic progress reaches all segments of society. These advancements are supported by the implementation of sector-specific environmental credit policies and transparent governance practices.
WBA’s Financial System Benchmark assesses how the world's 400 most influential financial institutions are transforming the financial system for a more just and sustainable future. The benchmark encourages action by identifying areas where progress and leadership are possible, measured against global standards and peer performance.
Beyond external ratings, CIMB’s focus is on supporting and enabling its customers as they navigate the transition to a more sustainable economy. As part of its commitment to mobilising RM300 billion in sustainable finance by 2030, the Group is sharpening its efforts to help clients manage transition risks and capture opportunities linked to decarbonisation and nature- positive solutions. This includes expanding CIMB’s sustainability advisory, carbon finance and nature finance offerings, with a strong emphasis on practical support for small and medium enterprises (“SMEs”) through sector-specific workshops that help translate sustainability requirements into clear business and financing strategies. The Group also aims to connect businesses with credible decarbonisation solution providers and incentivise progress through sustainability-linked financing tied to measurable outcomes.
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.
SOURCE: CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
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
MSCI ESG Ratings evaluate how well companies manage the environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) risks and opportunities specific to their industry that may affect financial performance. Using rules-based methodologies, MSCI assesses thousands of global issuers by combining corporate disclosures with alternative data sources. Each company is then assigned a rating from AAA to CCC, reflecting its resilience to these risks relative to its industry peers.
Novan Amirudin, Group Chief Executive Officer, CIMB Group said, “Our recent achievements reflect our efforts in embedding sustainability more deeply into our core operations, ensuring our foundational frameworks become part of our daily decision-making. This approach is integral to our Forward30 strategy, where sustainability is not treated as a standalone agenda, but as a key driver of how we grow and deliver impact.
While we are encouraged by the MSCI AAA rating and the recognition from the World Benchmarking Alliance, we view these benchmarks primarily as indicators that our strategy is moving in the right direction. What truly differentiates CIMB is our ability to translate ambition into execution by supporting our clients through the transition and delivering meaningful, real-economy impact across ASEAN, in line with our purpose of advancing customers and society.”
CIMB was also ranked #1 globally among financial institutions in the 2025 Financial System Benchmark by the World Benchmarking Alliance (“WBA”), as well as securing the #2 spot globally for Inclusive Finance, in recognition of its efforts to expand access to financial services and support a just transition that ensures socio-economic progress reaches all segments of society. These advancements are supported by the implementation of sector-specific environmental credit policies and transparent governance practices.
WBA’s Financial System Benchmark assesses how the world's 400 most influential financial institutions are transforming the financial system for a more just and sustainable future. The benchmark encourages action by identifying areas where progress and leadership are possible, measured against global standards and peer performance.
Beyond external ratings, CIMB’s focus is on supporting and enabling its customers as they navigate the transition to a more sustainable economy. As part of its commitment to mobilising RM300 billion in sustainable finance by 2030, the Group is sharpening its efforts to help clients manage transition risks and capture opportunities linked to decarbonisation and nature- positive solutions. This includes expanding CIMB’s sustainability advisory, carbon finance and nature finance offerings, with a strong emphasis on practical support for small and medium enterprises (“SMEs”) through sector-specific workshops that help translate sustainability requirements into clear business and financing strategies. The Group also aims to connect businesses with credible decarbonisation solution providers and incentivise progress through sustainability-linked financing tied to measurable outcomes.
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.
SOURCE: CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
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
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Technology Innovation Institute and World Economic Forum Announce ‘Abu Dhabi Centre for Frontier Technologies’ at Davos
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| Technology Innovation Institute and World Economic Forum Announce ‘Abu Dhabi Centre for Frontier Technologies’ at Davos (Photo: AETOSWire) |
Abu Dhabi becomes home to newest Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, focused on Quantum, Robotics, Space Tech and relate AI applications
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), and the World Economic Forum (WEF) have announced the launch of the Abu Dhabi Centre for Frontier Technologies, a new Centre within WEF’s prestigious Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) Global Network.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260120284423/en/
The collaboration was formalized during a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, marking a significant step in deepening international cooperation to shape the future of frontier technologies.
Established with a clear mandate to lead breakthroughs in frontier research and development, advance global policy on emerging technologies, and foster international collaboration that moves innovation from the lab into real-world deployment, the Centre builds on the UAE’s position as a real-world testbed for innovation. Supported by an agile regulatory environment and a strong link between research, policy and execution, the UAE offers a unique platform for piloting, deploying and scaling emerging technologies at a national level - a capability that will now be amplified through the World Economic Forum’s globally connected C4IR network.
The new Centre positions Abu Dhabi as a global epicenter for pioneering research of advanced technologies, with a focus on Quantum Computing, Robotics, Propulsion & Space systems, and related AI applications. Through this strategic partnership, TII joins a globally connected innovation ecosystem designed to accelerate the responsible adoption of transformative technologies.
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said: “As frontier technologies accelerate, there is a growing imperative and opportunity to guide their responsible and impactful adoption. This Centre brings together research excellence, policy leadership and global collaboration in one platform - pushing the boundaries of frontier R&D while enabling breakthrough science to move beyond the lab into real-world application. By translating innovation into responsibly governed, scalable solutions, we are reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub for science, innovation and impact.”
With this announcement, Abu Dhabi strengthens the UAE’s presence within the World Economic Forum’s global C4IR network, joining a distinguished group of Centres across countries such as the US, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and India.
The addition of Abu Dhabi Centre for Frontier Technologies strengthens the C4IR Global Network’s ability to shape global technology agenda,” said Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. “By bringing world-class research capabilities into the Network, this Centre will support industries in translating innovation into practical, responsible solutions that advance inclusion, sustainability and trust in technology.”
The Centre aims to push the boundaries of research and development in critical frontier technologies, while showcasing Abu Dhabi’s thought leadership through proof-of-concept pilots, regulatory sandboxes, and global convenings. It will serve as both an innovation engine and a strategic platform, advancing responsible technology adoption and reinforcing the UAE’s global standing in science and innovation.
Source: AETOSWire
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260120284423/en/
Contact
Jinan Warrayat
jinan.warrayat@tii.ae
Source : Technology Innovation Institute
--BERNAMA
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