Kioxia Introduces QLC UFS 4.1 Embedded Flash Memory Devices for High-Capacity Mobile Storage

^{QLC UFS 4.1 Embedded Flash Memory Devices}


8^th 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 8^th generation BiCS FLASH^TM 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

Related Link:
Kioxia’s UFS 4.1 Product Page

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

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

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

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

SAUDI MINISTERS PITCH 'CONNECTOR ECONOMY' AT WEF DAVOS

Amid shifting global trade dynamics, Saudi Arabia underscores its role as a stable connector economy linking markets across regions (Photo: AETOSWire)

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Saudi Arabia’s ministers at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos outlined the Kingdom's strategy to become a pivotal "connector economy" amid shifts in global trade, aggressively expanding its tourism sector, and reinforcing its role as a stable partner in finance and emerging technologies.

Minister of Commerce, Majid A. Alkassabi stated that global trade is moving toward a "managed and rule-driven trade model". He positioned Saudi Arabia's strategic location and resources as key advantages, allowing it to become a "bridge economy" and a major "logistic hub" linking Africa, Europe, and Asia.

The Kingdom’s tourism ambitions were highlighted by Minister of Tourism, Ahmed A. Alkhateeb. Citing UN Tourism projections for two billion tourists by 2030, he described the growth potential as "very encouraging" for Saudi hotel operators, investors, and technology providers.

On the financial front, Minister of Finance, Mohammed A. Aljadaan affirmed the government's role in providing a predictable business environment. This is being achieved by strengthening the national economy’s resilience and ensuring the private sector maintains the necessary confidence.

The Kingdom's technological focus was detailed by Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah A. Alswaha. Addressing challenges like the "energy wall and the memory wall" in artificial intelligence (AI), he extended a call for global partners, emphasising that Saudi Arabia is the partner of choice to accelerate and adopt AI in the "Intelligence Age".

Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar I. Alkhorayef stressed Saudi Arabia's commitment to a multilateral approach in international cooperation. He pointed to the Future Minerals Forum as a global convening platform uniting governments, industry, finance, and academia to address the future of minerals.

Minister of Economy and Planning, Faisal F. Alibrahim, speaking on economic partnerships, expressed belief in a world where every country can realise its economic potential while maintaining open dialogue, calling the current era a vast opportunity to "design the future".

Further cementing its global role, the Global Innovation Platform—a strategic partnership between Saudi HoldCo and GoldenPoint Global—launched the Saudi–United States Innovation Partnership during the meeting, according to a statement.

This platform is designed to accelerate bilateral collaboration in life sciences, AI, and advanced manufacturing, anchored in Riyadh and Austin.

Additionally, Amplifai Health was recognised as a winner in the second cohort of WEF’s MINDS - AI Global Alliance initiative.

-- BERNAMA

QUANTEXA CLAIMS ACCELERATOR NOW ON GUIDEWIRE MARKETPLACE

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Quantexa, a global pioneer in Decision Intelligence (DI), announced the global availability of its Quantexa Accelerator for Decision Intelligence for Guidewire ClaimCenter on the Guidewire Marketplace.

According to Quantexa in a statement, the new offering simplifies how insurers embed advanced claims intelligence directly into their ClaimCenter on Guidewire Cloud workflows, enabling smarter and faster claims decisions using trusted, connected data.

Quantexa Head of Insurance Solutions, Alex Johnson highlighted the availability as a significant milestone, noting that the accelerator enables insurers to embed real-time DI directly into their ClaimCenter workflows.

Meanwhile, Guidewire Vice President, Marketplace and Technology Alliances, Will Murphy stated that Quantexa’s accelerator helps to reduce indemnity costs, fight fraud, and deliver the trusted service policyholders expect.

The claims accelerator integrates Quantexa’s DI platform with the Guidewire industry-leading core claims platform to deliver real-time claims segmentation, fraud detection, and contextual analytics throughout the entire claims lifecycle.

By unifying internal and external data, the solution creates a connected, 360-degree view of customers, claimants, and suppliers. This provides immediate insight into risk, behaviour, and networks from the moment a claim is reported.

The solution is specifically designed to address pressure on claim organisations to process claims faster, reduce leakage, and improve customer experience without escalating operational costs.

Insurers can utilise the accelerator to detect fraud and leakage earlier and more accurately; improve segmentation and triage decisions in real time; deliver more consistent, trusted outcomes for policyholders; and reduce risk during cloud migrations.

The move strengthens Quantexa’s position as a partner in the global insurance ecosystem, validating its DI Platform as a cloud-ready, scalable solution that empowers over 500 Guidewire customers to accelerate their journey toward artificial intelligence-powered claims operations.

-- BERNAMA

Healthcare Partners Protocol & Solutions Committee (HPPSC) Strengthens Collaboration to Enhance Medical Claims Management

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