Khalizan Halid

A recap of some of the conversations we had on the sidelines of Bank Negara Malaysia Global Forum on Islamic Economics and Finance. Amidst discussions about the country's inflation and growth prospects, the Ringgit's recent weakness was a cause of confusion and worry for some. CNBC International #Malaysia #Ringgit

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Tasco gains steady upward momentum despite poorer 4Q numbers Tasco Bhd has been on a slow and steady climb in terms of share price since hitting a year low of 76 sen last year. The counter has started its upward momentum since the beginning of the year & it touched a 52-week high of RM1.02 last month Tasco is currently trading at an undemanding valuation, at 9.7x FY25 earnings per share. The total logistics solutions provider has a fundamental target price of RM1.20 or FY25 price earnings ratio of 13.0x. The company operates through five divisions namely Air freight forwarding division, Contract logistics division, Ocean freight forwarding division, Trucking division and Origin cargo order and vendor management division. It renders warehousing services, such as public bonded warehouse and cold room facilities.  Additionally, the company and its subsidiaries are also involved in the business of truck rental, in-house truck repair and maintenance, insurance agency services and warehouse rental as well as the services related to freight forwarding. But Tasco was affected by lower businesses from its air freight forwarding and ocean freight forwarding divisions, as freight rates fell to pre-pandemic levels. Its net profit for FY2024 dropped 32% to RM61.74 million from RM90.8 million, as revenue fell 33.2% to RM1.07 billion from RM1.61 billion. Its net profit for 4QFY2024 fell 18% year-on-year, to RM17.86 million, down from RM21.8 million a year earlier. For full year, net profit dropped 32% to RM61.74 million from RM90.8 million, as revenue fell 33.2%. Its freight forwarding division's profit before tax (PBT) fell 78.1% to RM9.02 million in FY2024 from RM41.27 million in FY2023. Meanwhile, Tasco’s ocean freight forwarding division's pretax profits plunged 92.4% to RM1.19 million from RM15.64 million. Its contract logistics division also saw a 30.2% decline in PBT to RM33.24 million from RM47.6 million. The declines were partly mitigated by its cold supply chain division's PBT, which jumped 91% to RM14.11 million from RM7.39 million. Tasco said the economic environment had largely normalised in FY2024, compared to when the pandemic disrupted supply chains in 2020 to 2022 and resulted in soaring international freight rates for both ocean and air, which the group had benefited from. The upturn is hinged on the positive outlook for Tasco in FY25, as the company will benefit from a recovery in shipment volume across all divisions as trade activities recovers. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts a 4.5% growth in airfreight volume this year. This could translate into the recovery of Tasco’s air freight forwarding division. Furthermore, as customers gradually move into Tasco’s two new warehouses, it could experience improved performance in the contract logistics division. Investors should be encouraged by the company’s ability to recover and ride on the uptick in freight business and may want to take their position now.

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𝙱𝚢 𝙰𝚣𝚊𝚖 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚘 𝙼𝚘𝚑𝚍 ® The Significance of Festival of Ideas (FOI) in Malaysia’s MADANI Vision Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s emphasis on the Festival of Ideas (FOI) at its inaugural launch in Putrajaya reveals a forward-looking vision for Malaysia as a hub of intellectual discourse and innovation. This aligns seamlessly with the principles of the Malaysia MADANI framework, which seeks to foster sustainability, creativity, and human dignity. Transforming the FOI into an annual event symbolizes a broader commitment to nurturing a culture of critical thinking, inclusivity, and national development. Festival of Ideas: A Platform for Intellectual Renaissance The FOI in Putrajaya represents more than just a festival—it is a confluence of minds from various fields, including politics, economics, and geoeconomics. By inviting over 80 leaders and experts to engage with the public, the FOI positions itself as a catalyst for idea generation and community-driven solutions. The inclusion of youth, through initiatives such as providing 10,000 job opportunities, underscores the critical role of the younger generation in shaping Malaysia’s future. MADANI Framework: A Vision Anchored in Core Values The FOI embodies the six pillars of the Malaysia MADANI framework—Sustainability (KeMampanan), Prosperity (Kesejahteraan), Creativity (Daya cipta), Respect (HormAt), Confidence (KeyakiNan), and Compassion (Ihsan). Each pillar integrates into the festival’s overarching aim of developing ideas that are not only innovative but deeply rooted in Malaysia’s cultural and moral fabric. Anwar’s vision, as articulated during the launch, highlights the necessity of balancing modern advancements like artificial intelligence and renewable energy with enduring values such as humanity and faith. This dual emphasis ensures that progress is both meaningful and ethically grounded. The Role of FOI in Addressing National Challenges 1. Enhancing Youth Engagement The FOI’s focus on youth participation reflects the government’s recognition of the demographic’s potential to drive innovation and societal change. By fostering a space where young people can contribute their perspectives, the festival empowers a generation to take ownership of Malaysia’s trajectory. 2. Promoting Intellectual Diversity By encouraging debates and differing viewpoints, the FOI strengthens Malaysia’s democratic values. Anwar’s statement that ideas must remain “grounded yet capable of reaching the skies” captures the need for intellectual agility—merging practical solutions with visionary thinking. _______________________________ https://lnkd.in/guVvmp7y

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In Twitter (X), the flexi cap category is the most beloved asset class. The performance of each fund from its 52-week high till this past Friday. The data is collected with the intention of comprehending why, despite being placed into a single category, there is still a great deal of performance difference. That is conditional on the distribution of large, mid, and small cap stocks in the portfolio. Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that mutual fund investments are exposed to market risk. Before making any investment decisions, review all scheme-related documentation thoroughly. The material of the reports is intended solely for informational purposes and should be used by the recipient. While we made significant efforts to compile the data and contents of this report, we give no promises about the logic of the assumptions or the veracity of any data. Any decisions made using this material are completely the responsibility of the recipient. We reserve the right to correct any errors or discrepancies in the reports that are discovered or brought to our attention at any time.

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A friend spoke with me. He joined a startup company a few years ago. The company has an ambitious winning aspiration. It aims to be the top 3 player in its industry within 3 years from its formation. But three years on, it has not made much progress with any meaningful outcomes. After some discussion, we noted that while the company has a business strategy, it does not have a clear strategy and plan for execution. When we look at the Chinese character 势(meaning trend or momentum, pronounced as shi), it contains two words: 执(meaning execution, pronounced as zhi) and 力 (meaning strength, pronounced as li). That means that to gain traction and results, having a winning aspiration is not enough. Ability to execute well is key (执行力). Strategy without effective execution is a mirage. Execution without strategy is a hobby. And strategy plus execution without purpose is a like a straw man without soul. Good weekend everyone. 「实践是检验真理的唯一标准。」～邓小平 有谋无勇，海市蜃楼 有勇无谋，纯属虚构 执行有力，无往不利 执行无力，白费力气 #transformation #strategy #execution

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MITI is confident that it can achieve the primary targets set for the first year of the New Industrial Master Plan (#NIMP2030). Based on NIMP 2030, launched on Sept 1, 2023, the value-added contribution of the manufacturing sector to the gross domestic product (GDP) has increased by 4.7%, amounting to RM4.2 billion. Employment numbers have also risen by 0.9% or 200,000 workers, as of the second quarter of 2024 (2Q24), compared to 2Q23. Additionally, the median salary in the manufacturing sector increased by 8.2% or RM201, as of 1Q24, year-on-year. Almost all key performance indicators for 2024 have met their targets, so we are confident that we can achieve the targets set for the year. Under NIMP 2030, MITI aims to achieve a value-added contribution of RM587.5 billion from the manufacturing sector, create 3.3 million job opportunities, and raise the median salary to RM4,510 by 2030. #MITI #ThisIsWhereGlobalStarts #TZA https://lnkd.in/gYFfWAgs

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I owe MITI this for almost 20 years .. this was made with Gemini Certainly! Here's a possible 30-day LinkedIn post schedule to complement your headline "Unleashing Malaysia's Standards Potential: A 30-Day Roadmap to Success 🇲🇾": Day 1: Briefly introduce the concept of national standards and their importance for Malaysia's economic growth and consumer protection. #MalaysiaStandards Day 2: Share a statistic or data point highlighting the impact of strong standards on a specific industry in Malaysia. #EconomicGrowth Day 3: Ask a question to spark discussion: What are some of the biggest challenges Malaysia faces in its current standards framework? #OpenDiscussion Day 4: Introduce the concept of prioritization in standard development. How can we identify standards with the most significant impact? #Prioritization Day 5: Discuss the role of stakeholder engagement in setting and revising standards. Who should be involved? #Collaboration Day 6: Explore how AI can streamline data analysis and identify areas for standards development or revision. #AI #Innovation Day 7: Focus on a specific sector (e.g., manufacturing, food safety) and explore how improved standards can benefit it. Day 8: Share an inspiring success story of a company that benefitted from adopting high standards. #CaseStudy Day 9: Discuss methods for expediting the standards development process without compromising quality. #Efficiency Day 10: Ask your audience: What are some of the ways you think standards can foster innovation in Malaysia? #Innovation Day 11: Highlight the importance of capacity building and training programs to ensure effective standards implementation. #Training Day 12: Dive deeper into how AI can assist with training and knowledge transfer related to standards. #AI Day 13: Discuss the role of accreditation bodies in ensuring the credibility and effectiveness of standards. #Accreditation Day 14: Ask your audience: How can we ensure that the benefits of enhanced standards reach all Malaysians? #Inclusivity Day 15: Explore strategies for effective communication and raising public awareness about national standards. #Communication Day 16: Focus on a specific standard and explain its potential impact on consumers and businesses. #ConsumerProtection Day 17: Share a thought leader quote emphasizing the importance of standards in the global marketplace. #GlobalCompetitiveness Day 18: Discuss the concept of regulatory enforcement and its role in upholding standards. #Enforcement Day 19: Ask your audience: What are some creative ways to incentivize businesses to adopt high standards? #Incentives Day 20: Celebrate a Malaysian innovation that aligns with or was driven by high national standards. #MalaysianInnovation Day 21: Explore how robust standards can attract foreign investment and enhance Malaysia's trade reputation. #ForeignInvestment #miti #malaysiastandards #mtdc

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When small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) meet financial institutions, that's when more transition happens. As Chief Sustainability Officer and Co-chair for JC3 SFG, we care about the future of Malaysian SMEs - whether SME understands the impact of sustainability on their business, whether they are prepared for what's coming, and what support they need to move forward given the challenges posed by climate change, heightened regulations and demands from their anchors. The session with Dr. John was full of energy and enlightenment, we clicked at an instance. Listening to his sustainability journey as SME, reaffirmed that financial institutions can play a pivotal role in helping SMEs navigate these changes. He emphasised with sustainability, businesses can not only survive but also prosper. Looking forward to further collaborate and inspire more SMEs to progress sustainably. #forgingsustainablefuture #smeinclusion #jc3sfg #sustainabilityinmalaysia #greenfinancing #financinggreen #beyondfinancing #smesustainability

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Mikro on acquisition spree, boost bottomline and share price Mikro MSC Bhd appears to be on the upward trend after it touched a year high of 30 sen on Aug 13. On a year to date basis, the counter rose some 26% , coming from a low of 18 sen in January this year. The heightened interest in Mikro MSC was buoyed by news of it proposing to buy a Singapore-based company. On August 12, Mikro MSC said it plans to acquire TES Productions & Projects Pte Ltd, which specialises in manufacturing signs and advertising displays, for RM30 million in shares. A heads of agreement was signed with Calida Group Pte Ltd to acquire the entire stake in TES. Lim Seng Gee is the sole director of TES and Calida, as well as the sole shareholder of Calida, which currently owns the entire stake in TES. The stake acquisition will be paid through the issuance of 134.83 million new shares in Mikro at an issue price of 22.25 sen apiece. This price reflects a 9.99% discount compared to the five-day volume-weighted average of Mikro shares of 24.72 sen last Friday. Mikro also proposed to diversify its existing businesses to include design, manufacture and installation of signs and advertising displays, as well as provide interior fit-out services. TES is expected to contribute more than 25% of the company's net profit, and may result in a shift of more than 25% of net assets. Mikro MSC designs and manufactures electronic products for the power distribution industry. The company has also diversified into the business of the manufacturing and trading of biomass fuel products. If successful, the company said it will be able to tap TES’ existing client bases. The proposed acquisition will introduce Mikro to a new customer base, and effectively expand its presence in Singapore. Calida is providing guarantee on a joint and several basis to the company that the audited net profit after tax of TES for the financial year ending Dec 31, 2024 (FY2024) would be at least S$800,000 (RM2.68 million). The audited net profit after tax of TES for FY2025 would be above S$890,000. Mikro MSC has been enjoying sterling results this financial year. Its net profit jumped more than 15 times to RM29.62 million in the nine months ended March 31, 2024 from RM1.91 million a year ago. Its splendid results were boosted by the share of results of an associate and higher other operating income.  Revenue also increased to RM39.94 million for 9MFY2024, from RM38.75 million a year ago. Investors are banking on Mikro MSC’s expansion and diversification efforts, which will put the company on a firmer footing. If all goes accordingly, the only way is up for Mikro MSC.

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I had the privilege of sharing a lunch with Dr. Mohd Nordin, an independent board member at AmBank Islamic Berhad and founding board member of MASB. Our discussion was insightful and covered a broad range of topics, including the banking and real estate sectors, strategic management, KPIs, Shariah compliance, and deeper reflections on life. Dr. Nordin’s personal experiences have greatly enriched my own journey, providing invaluable perspectives. I am excited to bring together like-minded leaders for insightful conversations on these topics, DM me if you are interested in joining a sharing session where we can exchange insights and learn together! 🤝😊 #CorporateStrategy #KPI #Governance #Boardleadership #Sustainability #Businesstransformation #BUU #Shariahinvestment

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Personally for me, any expert guidance is also key in boosting our careers cause it provides valuable insights, helps avoid common pitfalls and offers strategies tailored to personal strengths. This support accelerates growth, builds confidence, and opens up networking and development opportunities, making career advancement more efficient and effective..... So, please don't miss this!

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𝙱𝚢 𝙰𝚣𝚊𝚖 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚘 𝙼𝚘𝚑𝚍 ® Prime Minister’s Question Time (PMQT): Insights and Analysis The Prime Minister’s Question Time (PMQT) held on November 28, 2024, was a milestone for Malaysian democracy, underscoring the value of transparency, accountability, and constructive dialogue. YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (DSAI) led this session, addressing critical national and international issues with clarity and purpose. The PMQT initiative, a hallmark of the parliamentary reform agenda under the MADANI framework, reflects the government’s commitment to engaging directly with lawmakers and the public to address key concerns. Key Issues Discussed During PMQT 1. Flood Management and Disaster Relief DSAI’s comprehensive response to the recent monsoon flooding, which affected six states, demonstrated the government’s preparedness and forward-looking strategies. Immediate actions included:- • Swift emergency aid deployment. • Coordinated evacuation efforts involving federal and state agencies. Looking ahead, the MADANI government’s sustainable flood mitigation measures were highlighted, such as:- • Enhanced Early Warning Systems: Leveraging technology to predict and prepare for adverse weather conditions. • Community-Based Resilience Projects: Empowering local communities to respond effectively to disasters. • Infrastructure Investments: A focus on improving drainage systems and constructing flood-resistant structures, reflecting a balance of short-term relief and long-term resilience. This integrated approach demonstrates the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods in the face of escalating climate risks. 2. Economic and Trade Diplomacy DSAI provided an optimistic outlook on Malaysia’s growing economic stature, emphasizing a 29.1% surge in bilateral trade with the United States. This achievement reflects the success of proactive economic diplomacy underpinned by:- • Strategic Bilateral Engagements: Strengthening ties with key trade partners. • Market Diversification: Minimizing risks associated with global economic shifts. • Export Competitiveness: Focused efforts on enhancing value-added industries. The Prime Minister also addressed challenges, particularly global tariff changes, outlining measures to bolster Malaysia’s trade competitiveness, such as incentivizing innovation and promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as growth drivers. 3. Support for Palestinian Rights Malaysia reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with Palestine, a cornerstone of its foreign policy. DSAI unequivocally condemned ongoing aggression by Israel and advocated for justice through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This stance underscores Malaysia’s leadership in championing human rights and justice on the global stage. _______________________________ https://lnkd.in/guyCyjeg

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𝙱𝚢 𝙰𝚣𝚊𝚖 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚘 𝙼𝚘𝚑𝚍 ® A Pragmatic Analysis of MADANI Government’s Initiatives and Vision for Malaysia’s Future The MADANI government, under the leadership of Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (DSAI), has embarked on a transformative journey since taking office two years ago. By prioritizing reforms and strategic policies, it aims to accelerate economic growth, enhance trade and investment, and ensure equitable prosperity for all Malaysians. The progress achieved thus far underscores the government’s commitment to advancing Malaysia on the global stage while addressing domestic challenges with a focus on inclusivity and sustainable development. Achievements in Economic Growth and Global Recognition The MADANI administration has implemented numerous initiatives to rejuvenate Malaysia’s economy. These measures have garnered global attention, leading to an influx of interest from multinational corporations eager to invest in the country. Malaysia’s improved standing in the international arena reflects its leadership’s diplomatic prowess and policy-driven economic agenda. Key successes include attracting foreign direct investments (FDI) from global tech giants, enhancing trade relationships, and positioning Malaysia as a competitive player in industries such as renewable energy, digital transformation, and high-value manufacturing. By leveraging its strategic location and skilled workforce, Malaysia is laying the groundwork for long-term economic resilience and global competitiveness. Shared Prosperity and Inclusivity The hallmark of the MADANI government’s vision is its commitment to inclusive development. Through targeted programs, it seeks to uplift all segments of society, ensuring equitable distribution of wealth and resources. Among these efforts are:- 1. Dignified Wages and Employment Opportunities The government has introduced policies to ensure workers receive fair compensation, recognizing the need for a living wage that reflects the rising cost of living. Programs promoting skill enhancement and vocational training have been rolled out to prepare the workforce for a rapidly evolving job market. 2. Enhanced Public Healthcare Investments in the healthcare sector have improved service delivery, reduced waiting times, and expanded access to medical care. These reforms aim to provide quality healthcare for all Malaysians, particularly in underserved rural areas. 3. Empowered Education System Recognizing education as the cornerstone of national development, the MADANI government has prioritized access to quality education. Initiatives to modernize schools, introduce digital learning platforms, and provide financial assistance to underprivileged students demonstrate a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders. _______________________________ https://lnkd.in/gF4YB-qD

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𝙱𝚢 𝙰𝚣𝚊𝚖 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚘 𝙼𝚘𝚑𝚍 ® Berjaya Corporation’s Strategic Asset Disposal: A Move Toward Financial Strength and Business Agility Berjaya Corporation Berhad (BCorp), through its wholly-owned subsidiary Juara Sejati Sdn Bhd (JSS), recently disposed of 32 million shares in REDtone Digital Berhad, representing a 4.14% equity interest, for RM29.76 million at RM0.93 per share. This transaction, disclosed to Bursa Malaysia, is a strategic move aimed at enhancing BCorp’s financial agility and strengthening its balance sheet. Following the disposal, BCorp and its subsidiaries retain a significant 36.65% equity interest in REDtone, equivalent to 283.28 million shares. This transaction highlights BCorp’s active approach to optimizing its investment portfolio while maintaining substantial influence in REDtone’s strategic direction. Financial Optimization and Debt Reduction BCorp’s statement revealed that the proceeds from this disposal will primarily be utilized to repay outstanding loans and provide working capital for the group’s operations. By redirecting capital to areas of high operational significance, BCorp demonstrates its commitment to prudent financial management. Additionally, the disposal contributes to a notable RM7.68 million enhancement in the group’s consolidated equity reserves, reflecting a strengthened financial position. This move aligns with BCorp’s broader strategy of balancing its investment portfolio while safeguarding its liquidity. Strategic Realignment for Long-Term Growth BCorp’s decision to reduce its stake in REDtone should be viewed as part of a broader strategic realignment. By monetizing a portion of its investment, the group creates opportunities to channel resources toward higher-growth ventures, diversify its revenue streams, or fortify its core businesses. REDtone, a prominent player in Malaysia’s digital and telecommunications sector, remains a vital part of BCorp’s diversified portfolio. Retaining a controlling stake at 36.65% ensures that BCorp continues to benefit from REDtone’s growth potential while retaining flexibility to reallocate resources dynamically. Positive Market Implications From a market perspective, this transaction reflects positively on BCorp’s financial discipline and adaptability. The move provides assurance to stakeholders that the group is committed to maintaining a sustainable financial structure. The realization of gains from REDtone’s shares also reinforces the group’s ability to execute asset monetization without disrupting its operational integrity or market confidence. _______________________________ https://lnkd.in/gSj3URc8 _______________________________ https://lnkd.in/gRjJWa9G

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FINANCIAL INNOVATION IN ISLAMIC BANKING Over the weekend, I talked about the evolving landscape of Islamic banking in a virtual training attended by over 200 HQ and branch management staff of Public Bank Berhad and Public Islamic Bank Berhad. I shared four key strategies that ought to shape the direction of financial innovation in Islamic banking in the coming years: 1️⃣ Embracing purpose-driven banking 🪴 🌍 Instead of “reinventing the wheel” of traditional banking, Islamic banks need to stick to their “north star” of promoting social justice (’adl) and well-being (ihsan), as intended by Shariah itself, acting as a centre of gravity directing their innovation efforts. Solving the socioeconomic needs of communities is not an entirely new shift (i.e., from halal to tayyib), but rather it has always been the DNA of Islamic finance, taking examples of classical innovations, e.g., Tabung Haji and Mit Ghamr savings projects. Moving forward, product development should not solely focus on the permissibility of underlying contracts but should also be able to foresee and measure the impact the product will have on both people and the planet. 2️⃣ Exploring alternative finance ⚖️ 🤝🏻 Despite regulatory and capital constraints, Islamic banks should not shy away from attempts to widen their footprints and partnerships in alternative finance, including non-debt-based solutions such as venture capital, private equity, and equity crowdfunding. In the past, debts have been made easy and cheap, leading to growing indebtedness, which could deepen existing disparities in society, and Islamic banks should deviate from this practice. 3️⃣ Mainstreaming Islamic philanthropy 💰 This approach involves integrating zakat, waqf, and sadaqah into existing banking products and services. I call for a bolder effort to elevate Islamic philanthropy beyond serving as a funding escalator for business ventures to being a risk absorber to crowd in private investments to fund large-scale projects (e.g., through blended finance) that address more urgent societal challenges. 4️⃣ Leveraging financial technology for financial inclusion 🦾 🤖 In the age of digital banking, incumbent Islamic banks should harness their technological advantage to expand access to formal financial services, especially among underserved populations, and enhance their financial literacy levels instead of creating complex and intricate instruments. #IslamicFinance #FinancialInnovation #IslamicBanking #AlternativeFinance #IslamicPhilanthropy #FinancialTechnology #FinancialInclusion #SustainableFinance

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