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The Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Leading digital payments shift in Southeast Asia
KUALA LUMPUR: NTT Data Payment Services is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of transformation in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand, as digital payments continue to reshape the economic landscape across Southeast Asia. The company aims to lead the evolution of digital payment solutions in the region by building an integrated ecosystem that blends global best practices with the demands of local markets. This forward-looking approach involves significant investment in next-generation payment platforms designed to enhance efficiency and security. Executive director and group CEO Sean Hesh (pic) said NTT Data Payment Services is expanding its cross-border payment capabilities to support growing regional commerce and facilitate smoother financial interactions. 'With a clear focus on meeting the diverse needs of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), large corporations, and government-linked initiatives, we are setting the stage to become a trusted partner in driving digital inclusion and economic growth across these dynamic markets,' he told SunBiz. Sean said with over 500,000 payment touchpoints, the company leverages data insights to enhance both customer experience and merchant performance. Its data platforms deliver actionable information – such as transaction patterns, customer preferences, and peak business hours – enabling merchants to optimise their operations. Additionally, by using predictive analytics, the company helps merchants personalise their services and increase customer engagement. 'We invest heavily in real-time fraud monitoring and maintain strong, multi-layered cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard our systems and customers. 'Compliance with regulations like Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is fundamental to our operations. 'Additionally, we collaborate closely with cybersecurity experts and regulators to stay ahead of emerging threats, ensuring safe and trusted transactions throughout the region,' he said. Sean said NTT Data Payment Services actively collaborates with banks, regulators, and fintech partners to advance cross-border payment integration across Asean. He said these efforts focus on aligning payment standards, promoting interoperability, and streamlining onboarding and compliance processes. 'By working together, the goal is to build a more connected and inclusive payment ecosystem that enables seamless, secure, and scalable transactions throughout the region,' Sean said. Further, in supporting SMEs and microbusinesses in Malaysia's growing digital economy, Sean said NTT Data Payment Services is introducing a range of tailored solutions, including simplified onboarding, instant merchant approval, SME financing, and affordable payment acceptance options like QR pay and mobile POS systems. Touching on new technologies, Sean said: 'Artificial intelligence and machine learning are set to fundamentally transform the future of payments in Southeast Asia. 'They will enable real-time fraud detection, dynamic risk assessment, and highly personalised customer experiences. 'As digital adoption continues to grow, these technologies will play a crucial role in building trust, reducing friction, and ensuring secure, scalable transactions across the region.' Sean also noted that sustainability is becoming a core part of the company's technology and corporate roadmap. He said green fintech initiatives are being explored, including paperless onboarding, digital receipts, and energy-efficient infrastructure to minimise environmental impact. Internally, the company is also adopting eco-friendly workplace practices, such as reducing single-use materials and promoting responsible energy consumption.
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Kota Kinabalu's Shangri-La Rasa Ria champions community-based tourism
PETALING JAYA: Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu is strategically positioned to serve as an ideal platform supporting Sabah's advancement towards community-based tourism, in alignment with the objectives set forth by the Sabah Tourism Board. 'It's about creating moments that matter – grounded in our surroundings and led by our people,' general manager Fiona Hagan told SunBiz in an interview via email. She said the resort's collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah facilitates several ongoing research initiatives and conservation education programmes. The partnership ensures guests engage in meaningful learning and contribute to sustainable tourism practices, reinforcing the destination's commitment to responsible and impactful visitor experiences. Encompassing 400 acres of beachfront, rainforest, and protected reserve, Shangri-La Rasa Ria offers immersive cultural and nature-based experiences. Hagan said that apart from local cultural attractions, today's guests seek experiences rooted in wellness, nature and authenticity. 'We have shaped our programming around sunrise hikes and winged wonders, buggy tours and birdwatching, beach walks, and marshmallow roasting at sunset. Families can learn about biodiversity together, while couples can reconnect with nature in simple, memorable ways.' On Shangri-La Rasa Ria's achievement in securing Asean Green Hotel Standard classification, Hagan said the recognition reflects the resort's ongoing efforts to build a truly sustainable operation. 'At Shangri-La Rasa Ria, our EcoRia platform drives our environmental strategy – from rainwater harvesting and in-house bottling to LED retrofitting and achieving a 63.21% waste diversion rate. We are the first hotel in Malaysia certified under ISO 20121 for sustainable event management. 'These milestones reinforce our commitment to the Triple S pillars – Stay Responsibly, Savour Sustainably and Shine Through Collective Impact,' she said. Asked what sets Shangri-La Rasa Ria apart from other resorts, Hagan highlighted its people and commitment to guest experience. 'Through continuous upskilling, daily training, and our planned National Dual Training System (NDTS) accreditation, we are investing in the future of hospitality. We also consistently refine our guest programming – from cultural workshops to nature exploration – to ensure it evolves in line with guest expectations. 'Our strength lies in delivering quality experiences with authenticity, supported by a team that genuinely cares,' she said. Hagan noted a shift in the resort's primary guest demographics, with more families, independent travellers and those seeking meaningful cultural and community connections now making up the core audience. To meet evolving traveller expectations, the resort is enhancing its offerings. 'We are excited to introduce our upcoming Cultural Village, featuring a bamboo house crafted by local artisans, which will host dance performances, storytelling sessions, and local markets. 'Additionally, we have expanded our food and beverage programming with initiatives like the Rasa Ria Chef's Garden and the Rooted in Nature menus, celebrating Sabah's rich culinary heritage and local ingredients. 'These experiences enable our guests to engage more deeply with the culture and environment,' Hagan said. The resort has planned several enhancements, including new facilities and culinary expansions, to elevate the guest experience and uphold Shangri-La's premium positioning. 'Later this year, we will open the bamboo house as part of our Cultural Village, providing an immersive space for guest engagement, cultural exchange, and event hosting. Additionally, we are expanding our Asian cuisine offerings to feature live, sustainably sourced seafood, reflecting Sabah's renowned status as a seafood destination. 'These developments, alongside ongoing service and product improvements, underscore our commitment to delivering luxury with substance,' Hagan said. Shangri-La Rasa Ria is also leveraging technology and digital innovation to enhance both guest engagement and operational efficiency by integrating multiple digital touchpoints for a seamless guest experience. Guests can now use mobile check-in, access activity booking kiosks and manage all service requests through the Shangri-La App. Additionally, 24/7 messaging support is available via WhatsApp and WeChat, enabling real-time communication. These tools allow the resort to deliver prompt, personalised service while maintaining a strong human connection. Asked what are the biggest challenges and opportunities for Malaysia's luxury resort sector over the next five years, Hagan pointed to talent development and environmental, social and governance (ESG) integration. 'Attracting and developing hospitality talent, especially in regional areas, is a critical challenge. Our approach is to grow from within by offering structured training, clear career pathways, and launching our NDTS-accredited training centre. 'Simultaneously, ESG integration is reshaping luxury travel, and guests now demand transparency, connection, and purpose. Through local sourcing, sustainability education, and digital engagement, we are committed to keeping Shangri-La Rasa Ria future-ready and aligned with evolving guest expectations,' she said. Shangri-La Rasa Ria is also positioned as a preferred destination for both weddings and business events, capable of hosting intimate gatherings of 15 guests to large-scale functions accommodating up to 1,000 attendees. With its private beachfront, expansive landscaped gardens and versatile open spaces, the resort offers flexibility for a wide range of events – from sunset beach weddings and garden receptions to structured business conferences and meetings.
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Ban on vape sales ‘could be counterproductive, fuel black market'
KUALA LUMPUR: There will be long-term implications, including potential job losses, particularly affecting Bumiputera entrepreneurs and SMEs, if the Selangor government decide to impose a ban on the sale of vapes and e-cigarettes. Datametrics Research and Information Centre Sdn Bhd managing director Pankaj Kumar said that, alongside reduced state and federal tax revenues, an increase in illegal product sales that may pose public health risks, and continued regulatory uncertainty that could deter investment in both the industry and the broader retail sector. 'A state-wide ban would be short-sighted and counterproductive. It undermines national legislation (Act 852), penalises law-abiding businesses, and opens the floodgates to black market activity,' he told SunBiz. When asked about risks that such a ban might worsen illegal trade or increase the circulation of unregulated vape liquids, Pankaj said, 'Absolutely. We have seen this happen in other markets. 'Bans tend to create a vacuum that bad actors quickly fill. The unintended consequence of prohibition is the rise of unregulated trade, where products are not tested, labelled, or taxed. 'Malaysia already faces a tobacco black market valued at RM5 billion annually. A vape ban will only exacerbate this issue, making it more difficult for enforcement agencies to track and regulate consumption. 'Worse, illicit vape products are often laced with narcotics, posing significant health risks to consumers and especially youth.' Pankaj said a vape ban in Selangor, a state with one of the highest retail and commercial concentrations in the country, would significantly disrupt a legal industry that currently supports thousands of jobs and micro-enterprises. He said based on data, the vape industry in Malaysia contributes RM3.48 billion in economic value, employing over 31,500 individuals, many of whom are Bumiputera entrepreneurs who operate small businesses. 'A state-wide ban would not only collapse these businesses but also reduce retail tax contributions and sales-based state taxes. Instead of regulating and collecting revenue from legal players, Selangor risks pushing economic activity underground, where it is untaxed, unregulated, and unsafe,' he added. Asked what alternative policy approaches Selangor could consider instead of a full sales ban, Pankaj said several data-driven alternatives to a ban can be considered. These include strict enforcement against illegal substances in vape liquids, particularly narcotics and banned chemicals, along with the introduction of retail licensing systems to ensure only approved outlets sell compliant products. 'Implementing digital tracking and traceability can help verify that products are legally sourced and sold, while age-gated sales with ID verification at the point of purchase can prevent underage access. 'Complementing these measures with health education campaigns will help counter misinformation and discourage youth usage. Together, these steps can create a transparent and accountable industry that supports national health objectives without driving growth in the black market,' he said. Recently, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the decision to ban vape sales in the state would be made after the public health committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin presents a policy paper on the proposal to the state executive council. He said the state government will prioritise public health and future generations as it weighs the consequences of prohibiting vape products. Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association president Datuk Adzwan Ab Manas said the government should stay focused on enforcing Act 852 fairly and consistently. 'Legal businesses are prepared to comply with the rules. What undermines both public health and industry sustainability is the blanket ban on vaping at the state level. 'These bans do not stop demand, they just push consumers to the black market. Proper regulation and enforcement, rather than prohibition, are the most effective tools to protect public health while supporting legitimate businesses,' he said. Adzwan pointed out that during a recent Parliament session, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail highlighted a study conducted by Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital involving 152 students in Kelantan, where vape has been banned since 2016. The study found that among 152 students who vaped, 65% were vaping products mixed with magic mushrooms, which is considered more concerning than methamphetamine and syabu drugs. 'This is strong evidence that a ban does not work,' he said. Adzwan stated that for legal vape players committed to compliance, the current regulatory framework under Act 852 is workable. 'Many of our members, who include a significant number of Bumiputera entrepreneurs and SMEs, have already submitted the necessary paperwork and are in the process of aligning with the law. 'However, the real threat now is from state-wide bans. These bans disproportionately hurt legitimate businesses, especially smaller local entrepreneurs. The real issue is abuse of vape products, not the legal, regulated products being sold. The government should focus on cracking down on misuse and illegal substances, not punishing those who are playing by the rules,' Adzwan said.
The Sun
24-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Sirim on mission to turn more than 1,200 SMEs into smart manufacturers
LANGKAWI: Sirim Bhd has been entrusted with the critical mandate of driving the adoption of smart manufacturing among more than 1,200 SMEs, aiming to accelerate their transition from Industry 1.5 to Industry 4.0. According to Sirim president and group CEO Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad, one of the most pressing challenges lies in transforming traditionally labour-intensive industries into modern, automated operations – an ambitious shift that also presents significant opportunities for productivity, efficiency and long-term competitiveness. 'We hope that by 2030, Malaysia can become independent of foreign labour and achieve full automation, leading to improved productivity and higher average incomes across the country. 'However, transitioning SMEs to smart manufacturing involves significant costs. That is why the government, through the Smart Take-Up Programme, is providing subsidies to support the adoption of these technologies and we are offering technological interventions to assist industries along the way,' he told SunBiz at the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima 2025) yesterday. He said to support the transformation of local SMEs into smart manufacturing, the government is providing funding assistance, while Sirim collaborates with agencies such as MIDF, under the supervision of Bank Negara Malaysia, to ensure these businesses can access financing at the lowest possible interest rates. 'And we are also collaborating with several multinational companies that are willing to share their automation systems with Malaysia, enabling a smoother transition from our current state to our desired future. Our primary focus is on the manufacturing sector, particularly in electrical and electronics, even though many interested companies are in the food and beverage space. 'This focus is crucial to ensure that Malaysia maintains its position as one of the world's leading semiconductor producers,' Ahmad Sabirin said. To strengthen Malaysia's manufacturing ecosystem, he added, there is a need to cultivate a second and third tier of SMEs that can effectively support multinational corporations operating in the country. While financial assistance remains important, industry stakeholders have expressed that what they value most is clear insight into the future direction of global technology – highlighting the need for stronger guidance, foresight, and strategic alignment from the government to facilitate their transition into advanced manufacturing, Ahmad Sabirin noted. 'To ensure local industries are not left behind, Sirim is working closely with agencies like Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation and Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to build a cohesive ecosystem that supports the global export of high-value products. 'By aligning efforts, the goal is to position Malaysia as a competitive exporter in high-growth, high-value sectors. With overseas operations already under way, Sirim aims to strengthen its leadership role both nationally and across Asean over the next three to five years. 'We are planning to establish more offices globally, and through these efforts, our goal is not only to elevate Sirim's international presence but also to help bring Malaysian SMEs onto the global stage. That, I believe, is the most important objective,' Ahmad Sabirin said.
The Sun
23-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Sirim steps up international expansion, with particular focus on India, China and Asean
LANGKAWI: Sirim Bhd aims to certify 50,000 domestic companies over the next two to three years – more than double the 20,000 local firms it supported last year – as part of its broader strategy to help Malaysian businesses expand globally, with a particular focus on tapping into the vast growth and revenue opportunities in India and China. President and group CEO Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad said, 'We are placing strong strategic focus on two of the world's most populous and dynamic markets – China and India. Together, these nations represent nearly three billion people, accounting for a significant portion of the global population. 'Referred to symbolically as the 'dragon' and the 'elephant', missing out on these markets would be a substantial lost opportunity. That is why we are actively positioning ourselves in China and working towards establishing a presence in India. 'Additionally, as a multiracial nation with strong Chinese and Indian communities, Malaysia is uniquely positioned to leverage this diversity as a bridge into these ecosystems,' Ahmad Sabirin told SunBiz at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima 2025) yesterday. Ahmad Sabirin said Sirim is accelerating its global expansion by establishing more international offices, with the broader objective of enabling not only its own growth but also supporting the internationalisation of Malaysian small and medium enterprises. Given the limitations of Malaysia's relatively small market, Sirim is also strategically targeting the broader Asean region – with its population of about 680 million and substantial consumer base – as a key market, he said. Touching on the aerospace sector, Ahmad Sabirin said as Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship this year, efforts are under way to position local aerospace players for regional growth, with a vision to expand beyond domestic government contracts and establish the country as a key aerospace hub in Southeast Asia – an ambition supported by ongoing collaboration between agencies such as Sirim, the Defence Ministry and regional investment partners. 'This year, Sirim is advancing its commitment to standard and technology diplomacy by extending its services to Asean member countries, including several least developed nations. Acknowledging the disparities within the region, Sirim aims to foster a more inclusive and vibrant ecosystem, with Malaysia taking a leadership role. 'Sirim hopes this initiative will align with the prime minister's efforts to champion regional cooperation in technology, standards, and human capital development. 'In line with global sustainability goals, Sirim continues to position itself as a key enabler in Malaysia's net zero ambitions –particularly through its long-standing work in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF),' Ahmad Sabirin said. He added that Sirim is in discussions with Petroliam Nasional Bhd to explore the potential of utilising locally sourced biomass for the production of SAF, recognising its critical role in advancing Malaysia's net-zero carbon by 2050 goal. With an emphasis on increasing SAF adoption across sectors, including national defence, this initiative positions Malaysia as a potential pioneer in the global SAF framework, leveraging its readily available and cost-effective raw materials to support both domestic use and international supply. 'Currently, we are purchasing SAF at a higher cost. However, by shifting processing capabilities to our own country, we can export higher-value products instead of importing them, ultimately improving our trade balance through more strategic value-added production and exports,' Ahmad Sabirin said. Last year, Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said Malaysia planned to start producing SAF in 2027, with an initial production capacity of one million tonnes per year. The production capacity will gradually increase based on factory output and feedstock availability, the minister told parliament. Malaysia, the world's second-largest palm oil producer, is in a strategic position to become one of the world's leading SAF producers, he was quoted saying in a Reuters report. In April of this year, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said Malaysia was set to boost its role in the global clean energy sector with the development of a world-scale SAF refinery. The project is a result of a strategic partnership between Bin Zayed International and local biofuel pioneer FatHopes Energy. Describing the partnership as a 'game-changer' for the country's energy and aviation sectors, Nik Nazmi said this investment would serve as a catalyst for far-reaching transformation. 'It heralds Malaysia's arrival as a serious player in the global clean energy and low-carbon economy,' he said at the project's memorandum of understanding signing ceremony. Asked about examples of Sirim's research and development initiatives in the electric vehicle space, Ahmad Sabirin said, 'For EV, we have the most complex system for the industries. Before implementing an EV system in Malaysia, patent approval is required, and it must be validated by the country's designated petroleum and energy research institute. 'Following patent approval, all EV systems must undergo testing and certification by Sirim QAS, while battery development and testing are handled by Sirim Research – forming a comprehensive ecosystem to support national battery innovation. 'In parallel, Sirim is actively developing standards for hydrogen, particularly as several states begin hydrogen-related initiatives. 'Ensuring safety remains a top priority, with clear standards and consistent compliance frameworks being established to guide industry practices. Currently, much of the industrial focus is centred on advancing the EV sector,' Ahmad Sabirin said.
