Latest news with #AKM
Barnama
20-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
KPKT To Lodge Police Reports Over Fake News On MyKiosk Project
PUTRAJAYA, May 20 (Bernama) -- The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) will file police reports and complaints to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) following the circulation of several videos and false news regarding the MyKiosk project. Its minister Nga Kor Ming said he has instructed the Local Government Department (JKT) to identify the individuals or parties spreading the fake news. 'The ministry's staff are actively compiling all the videos spreading false information. If you want to spread fake news, go ahead, but we will also take stern action," he told the media after the pre-launch ceremony of the Minister's Excellence Awards (AKM) and Media Excellence Awards (AKeMedia) 2025 here today. Nga said the ministry will lodge a complaint with the MCMC to enable an investigation under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. When asked about calls for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to intervene and investigate the MyKiosk project, Nga said he is ready to cooperate if an investigation is conducted. Responding to allegations that KPKT appointed its own contractors for the MyKiosk installations, Nga clarified that the claim is untrue, as all 795 contractors involved were appointed by 156 local authorities (PBTs) nationwide. According to Nga, the ministry only provides funding, while the PBTs handle other aspects such as contractor selection, kiosk location and vendor management. On claims that the cost of MyKiosk units is too high, Nga explained that the cost is justified due to upgrades in the MyKiosk 2.0 model, which now includes features like solar panels and long-lasting batteries, LED lighting, ambient LED lights, LED signage, portable batteries, adjustable shelves, fans, hydraulic windows, and roof heat insulation. 'The RM25,000 per kiosk is a ceiling price set by KPKT, so contractors must offer a price lower than the ceiling,' he said.
Business Wire
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Business Wire
Asahi Kasei Microdevices and Dirac Partner to Meet Growing Demand for High-Fidelity In-Car Audio Performance
TOKYO & NOVI, Mich. & DÜSSELDORF, Germany & UPPSALA, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Leading semiconductor manufacturer Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Swedish digital audio pioneer Dirac have announced a partnership to integrate Dirac's suite of software-defined smart acoustics solutions, AudioIQ, into AKM's line of automotive audio digital signal processors (DSPs), including its flagship AK7709, to significantly reduce tuning time while enhancing sound quality within vehicle interiors. This collaboration brings a new level of audio precision to automotive amplifier systems, delivering a more natural, immersive sound experience for drivers while dramatically reducing the need for complex manual tuning. The partnership also enables AKM to embed Dirac's proprietary algorithms into its next generation of audio DSPs. As indicated in Asahi Kasei's 2023 automotive survey, as driverless vehicles become more prevalent, passengers increasingly emphasize in-cabin experiences. Together, the two companies aim to meet the rising demand for immersive in-car entertainment while addressing OEMs' pain points of taxing tuning processes. 'With the electrification of vehicles and growing demand for premium passenger experiences, high-quality in-cabin sound has never been more critical,' said Takeshi Fujita, General Manager for ES Project at AKM. 'Our partnership with Dirac allows us to pair our industry-proven DSPs and proprietary audio technologies with Dirac's cutting-edge smart acoustics software to create a more natural and immersive acoustic environment for every seat in the vehicle.' Over the past 20 years, AKM has shipped more than 200 million units of its audio DSPs, which have been widely adopted in vehicle infotainment systems and other audio and voice solutions. By integrating Dirac's smart acoustics software directly into its proven DSP portfolio, AKM enhances its ability to deliver lifelike audio in the face of challenging cabin acoustics and speaker placements. The partnership further elevates the performance of AKM's proprietary software solutions, including Dynamic Sound Control (DSC), which automatically optimizes music balance in response to changing road and driving conditions, and Karaoke Mode, which delivers enhanced in-cabin entertainment through low-latency echo cancellation and howling suppression. 'Our partnership with AKM reflects our shared commitment to making premium in-car audio more accessible and efficient to implement,' said Ramzi Khalaf, Director, Strategic Partnerships at Dirac.'By embedding Dirac AudioIQ solution into AKM's leading DSPs, we're empowering automakers to deliver best-in-class sound performance that adapts to any cabin configuration – without the cost and complexity of traditional tuning methods.' Dirac AudioIQ is a fully scalable audio optimization platform for vehicles. It combines measurement-based tuning with advanced signal processing to deliver consistent, high-quality sound across every seat. AudioIQ minimizes manual calibration and supports all levels of system complexities, helping manufacturers improve audio performance while significantly reducing tuning time and overall time-to-market. Looking ahead, Dirac and AKM plan to expand their collaboration to support future generations of AKM audio DSPs, creating a scalable platform for automotive audio innovation. Learn more about AKM's audio DSPs here and Dirac's automotive audio technologies here. About Dirac Dirac develops digital software solutions that create a significantly improved sound experience for all types of sound systems. Our customers include enterprises, such as sound system manufacturers and streaming services, as well as consumers. Dirac is a global company with headquarters in Uppsala, Sweden and R&D facilities in Copenhagen, Denmark and Bangalore, India, with representation in Greater China, Germany, Japan, Korea, and the USA. To learn more, visit About Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) AKM, a Japan-based company, operates an electronic components business as a member of the Asahi Kasei Group's Material sector. AKM provides customers with unique products by combining the compound semiconductor technology used in magnetic sensors with the ASIC/analog circuit technology used in silicon semiconductors. AKM's unique products and solutions are featured across a wide range of markets, including mobile communication devices and consumer products, as well as automotive electronics devices, household equipment, and industrial equipment. Additional information is available on About Asahi Kasei The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with an ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 49,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to sustainable society by providing solutions to the world's challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Healthcare. For more information, visit Asahi Kasei is also dedicated to sustainability initiatives and is contributing to reaching a carbon neutral society by 2050. To learn more, visit
Barnama
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Barnama
MADANI Programme With The Siamese Community Reinforces Inter-Ethnic Harmony
KOTA BHARU, May 19 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia MADANI Programme with the Siamese Community in Kelantan not only engages the community but also reinforces inter-ethnic harmony, said Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia (AKM) director-general Datuk Dr Roslan Hussin. He said the programme can help foster a deeper understanding of the principles of Malaysia MADANI, which encompass values such as humanity, unity and inclusivity. 'The programme has been well received by the Kelantan Siamese Association as a Malaysia MADANI initiative introduced by the government to serve as a platform for unity and inclusive nation-building. 'The recognition of the Siamese community's role within the Malaysia MADANI framework is clearly reflected through this programme,' he said after officiating the event held at the Tumpat District Unity Office yesterday. Roslan said the programme, organised by AKM under the Kelantan Office of the Prime Minister's Department, was warmly received and well supported by the local community. Also present were AKM, Prime Minister's Department Kelantan Office director Zuryati Zakaria and Kelantan Siamese Association acting chairman Prof Aweng Eh Rak, who is also the head of the Kelantan Siamese Community Association. 'The programme was packed with activities that enhanced national and cultural values, including a MADANI-themed colouring competition, Kahoot quiz on nationhood, a 'Krathong' arrangement competition, as well as traditional Siamese dance and gedombak drum performances,' he said. Also held was a dialogue session between AKM director-general and members of the Kelantan Siamese Association to discuss the Siamese community's role in nation-building. He added that the Siamese community is recognised as a spokesperson group and MADANI Mobilisers (Sahabat Penggerak MADANI), who play a key role in strengthening the national spirit and enhancing inter-ethnic unity.
Borneo Post
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Absenteeism, unapproved leave top offenses among civil servants, says Chief Secretary
KOTA KINABALU (May 9): Absenteeism, unauthorized leave and uncertified sick leave are among the most common offenses committed by civil servants, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar revealed. Speaking at the Jelajah Taat Setia MADANI Sabah programme on Friday, Shamsul Azri warned that department heads who fail to address or conceal integrity violations will face disciplinary action, including demerit points. 'Governance-related offenses, for instance, carry a 15 per cent demerit penalty,' he said. 'However, the number of offenders remains low — less than 10 per cent of civil servants. The most frequent violations include unauthorized overseas travel and uncertified sick leave.' The Jelajah Taat Setia MADANI initiative, a nationwide effort to strengthen loyalty and integrity in the civil service, drew over 2,000 federal and state public sector employees in Sabah — the second state to host the programme after Negeri Sembilan. Jointly organized by the Malaysia Nationhood Academy (AKM), the Chief Secretary's Office (KSN), and the Sabah State Government, the event aligns with the Malaysia MADANI philosophy, emphasizing efficiency, accountability and loyalty among civil servants. Shamsul Azri stressed the need for tailored approaches to Sabah's unique logistical challenges under the Public Service Reform Agenda. He also urged civil servants to uphold trust in government services, stating, 'Strong loyalty ensures effective policy implementation.' Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor echoed the sentiment, reminding public servants that they represent the government. 'The people observe our every action. We must maintain high standards to preserve trust in the MADANI government,' he said. The event featured a keynote talk by AKM Director-General Datuk Dr Roslan Hussin on embedding MADANI values in civil service. A Malaysia MADANI video was also launched as an educational tool for AKM's outreach efforts. The programme included government agency exhibitions and a 'Jualan Rahmah' initiative offering affordable goods and services. AKM plans to expand the tour nationwide to reinforce loyalty and service excellence among civil servants.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Asahi Kasei Microdevices Launches New Series of Power Management ICs for Energy Harvesting
Fig. 1 - AP4413 series of PMICs for energy harvesting Fig. 2 - AP4413 PMIC: System configuration example Optimizing charge and discharge of rechargeable batteries in remote controls, IoT sensors, Bluetooth® trackers, etc. TOKYO & NOVI, Mich. & DÜSSELDORF, Germany, May 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) has developed the AP4413, a new series of ultra-low current power management ICs (PMICs) ideal for battery charging systems used in energy harvesting1 applications. The AP4413 series enables efficient battery charging while consuming an extremely low current of 52 nA and features four variants with voltage threshold characteristics matching several common rechargeable battery types. The AP4413 comes in a tiny 3.0 × 3.0 × 0.37 mm HXQFN package and has been in mass production since February of 2025. Equipped with AKM's proprietary ultra-low current voltage monitoring system, the AP4413 series enables autonomous charging of a small rechargeable battery via energy harvesting, which is becoming increasingly common across a wide range of applications such as remote controls, Bluetooth® trackers, and IoT sensors, which have traditionally used disposable batteries. This is particularly relevant in Europe, where the transition to rechargeable batteries is being promoted by Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 to evaluate the feasibility of phasing out disposable batteries.2 AKM has accumulated wide-ranging expertise in product technology and applications through the development and mass production of PMICs for energy harvesting. These devices allow system designers to utilize small amounts of ambient environmental energy, such as indoor light and body heat, to operate a variety of electronic devices, many of which are battery-operated. This is especially beneficial for IoT environmental sensors such as CO 2 monitors that are installed in locations where line power is not easily accessible, and where battery replacement would be difficult. Using energy harvesting to charge batteries is challenging, because the harvested voltage and current tend to be small and often unstable. It is therefore essential to minimize the PMIC's power consumption and prevent excessive charging and discharging. The AP4413 series' ultra-low 52 nA current consumption has minimal impact on a system's power budget, and its voltage monitoring system prevents rechargeable batteries from becoming completely discharged, allowing for quick startup and/or recovery. Furthermore, the addition of an inline capacitor (see figure 2) allows the AP4413 series PMICs to support system operation even when the battery is completely discharged, while recharging it at the same time.
