29/01/2026

BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | JAN 29, 2026

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MSB Global to explore energy storage opportunities in M’sia

Malaysia’s terms of trade down slightly in December PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s export unit value index in December 2025 decreased by 0.4% from 154.0 points in the previous month to 153.4 points. Similarly, the import unit value index decreased by 0.3% from 124.5 points to 124.2 points. Consequently, Malaysia’s terms of trade slipped 0.1% month-on-month from 123.7 points to 123.6 points in December 2025, the Department of Statistics Malaysia reported yesterday. Chief Statistician Malaysia Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the export unit value index decline was contributed by a decrease in the index of animal and vegetable oils and fats (-2.7%), miscellaneous manufactured articles (- 0.5%) and machinery and transport equipment (-0.3%). Meanwhile, the export volume index increased by 13.8% in line with the increment in the indices of machinery and transport equipment (+23.6%), manufactured goods (+22.2%) and animal and vegetable oils and fats (+14.5%). The seasonally adjusted export volume index increased by 7% from 165.8 points to 177.4 points. Referring to the annual comparison, both the exports unit value index and volume index expanded 1.8% and 8.4% respectively. The import unit value index declined by 0.3% in December 2025, contributed by decreases in the indices of mineral fuels (-1.8%), chemicals (-0.5%) and machinery and transport equipment (-0.3%). Meanwhile, the import volume index increased by 4% in December 2025 compared to the previous month, contributed by increments in the indices for miscellaneous manufactured articles (+32.3%), chemicals (+27.9%) and food (+25.2%). The seasonally adjusted import volume index increased by 3.4% from 234.3 point to 242.3 points. A year-on-year comparison showed that the import unit value index declined by 3%, while the volume index edged up by 15.4% . Malaysia’s terms of trade dropped 0.1% month-on-month to 123.6 points in December 2025, driven by the decrease in the index of animal and vegetable oils and fats (-1.3%), miscellaneous manufactured articles (-0.2%) and chemicals (-0.2%). Meanwhile, Malaysia’s terms of trade increased 4.9% year-on-year from 117.8 points in December of the previous year. MM Computer Systems gets Bursa approval for ACE Market listing KUALA LUMPUR: IT solutions provider MM Computer Systems Bhd (MMCS) has received approval from Bursa Malaysia Securities for its proposed ACE Market listing. The group said the move is intended to support continued growth and pursue additional projects, contracts and broaden its solutions portfolio in line with evolving technological trends. “We remain focused on executing the next phases to expand our business presence and deepen customer impact,” managing director Young Yoong Chang said in a statement yesterday. In its prospectus exposure dated Oct 7, 2025, MMCS said its initial public offering will involve the public issue of 119 million new ordinary shares. The listing exercise is managed by Malacca Securities, who will be the principal adviser, sponsor, underwriter and placement agent, while SCS Global Advisory serves as the corporate finance adviser. – Bernama

Technology CEO Li Chang said the MoU marks the beginning of a structured collaboration between “our organisations to jointly explore semi-solid state lithium battery energy storage opportunities in Malaysia”. “This represents an important step in our efforts to assess the applicability of our advanced energy storage technologies in key regional markets, working alongside a trusted local partner.” Li said the company has invested significantly in the development of semi-solid and quasi-solid state lithium battery technologies, with a strong emphasis on safety, performance and long-term reliability. “Compared with conventional liquid lithium batteries, semi-solid state technology offers attributes such as improved safety characteristics, higher energy density and enhanced operating stability, making it suitable for a range of commercial, industrial and infrastructure-related energy storage applications,” he added. The MoU, which is effective for six months, is non-binding and does not have any immediate financial impact on the group, MSB Global said in a filing with Bursa Malaysia. It added that the collaboration is exploratory in nature and subject to further discussions and the execution of definitive agreements.

commercial viability and risk considerations,” he said at a media briefing on Monday. As renewable energy deployment expands and energy resilience becomes increasingly important across commercial, industrial and infrastructure sectors, the role of safe, reliable and scalable energy storage solutions continues to grow, said Ow. From MSB’s perspective, he said, this collaboration allows the group to better understand how advanced energy storage solutions can be applied within real-world commercial, industrial and infrastructure settings in Malaysia. “Our focus is not on the technology itself, but on how such solutions can be deployed responsibly, economically and in line with customer needs, regulatory requirements and project realities.” He stressed that this MoU does not represent a shift in its core business focus but, rather provides a structured platform to assess energy storage-related opportunities as the market evolves. “We have built the foundation in the aftermarket automotive parts and lubricants segment, supported by long-standing partnerships, an established distribution network, and a cautious operating philosophy,” said Ow. Zhejiang Guansheng Dongchi Energy

o MoU with Chinese firm focuses on semi-solid state lithium battery segment

Ű BY HAYATUN RAZAK sunbiz@thesundaily.com

KUALA parts distributor MSB Global Group Bhd, through wholly owned subsidiary MSB Machinery Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Zhejiang Guansheng Dongchi Energy Technology Co Ltd, a subsidiary within GSP Automotive Group, to jointly explore semi solid state lithium battery energy storage opportunities in Malaysia. With this MoU, MSB Global executive director Oscar Ow Chen Lun said, it is making its first move into the battery energy storage system space. “This MoU allows MSB to participate in the energy storage segment through a market-driven and project-based approach, without manufacturing commitments or guaranteed project awards. This enables us to assess demand progressively, engage customers responsibly and evaluate opportunities based on LUMPUR: Automotive

Magnum 4D advances digital transformation while preserving retail experience

Ű BY JOHN GILBERT sunbiz@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Number forecast operator Magnum 4D Bhd views its digital trans formation as a long-term responsibility, guided by a clear principle of innovation and regulatory integrity. Executive vice-president and group chief operating officer Datuk Dr Chong Fhui said that, over the years, Magnum has steadily introduced digital solutions across its retail network, internal systems and mobile platforms. The company has introduced PlayNow, the first among NFO players in the country, which is part of its digital transformation journey, enabling players to capture inspiration digitally, reduce errors and have a smoother experience across physical and digital touchpoints. Chong stated that these innovations aim to enhance the traditional Magnum experience, emphasising the crucial role of human interactions in player engagement. “PlayNow was developed by listening closely to our customers. The feature gives customers the freedom to choose their numbers anytime, anywhere – capture that moment digitally, and complete their play later at a Magnum outlet when it suits them,“ he told reporters when asked about Magnum’s rationale for introducing the PayNow function during a media briefing yesterday. “Many people ask why we do not move fully online. We try to get as close as possible while keeping customers safe and comfortable. “For Magnum, technology is meant to simplify, not complicate. PayNow focuses on speed, convenience, and safety, allowing customers to generate a QR code instead of writing on paper, saving time and reducing errors. It also speeds up transactions at outlets and reduces paper usage, supporting sustainability. “Overall, our goal is to make the purchasing

Chong (second, left) with (from left) senior vice-president national retail and operations Stephanie Ang, vice-president digital assets Tan Sze Yien and vice-president customer insight, acquisition and PR Goh Sin Giin at Magnum 4D’s media briefing.

technologically, and governance-ready for the next phase of digital evolution. At the same time, Magnum remains firmly customer-focused and socially responsible. “We continue to strengthen our retail network, enhance digital experiences where relevant, and maintain clear boundaries for younger audiences, while honouring the loyalty of long-time players. “Our commitment to the community remains integral, with ongoing initiatives in education, food support, and community development pro gressing alongside business growth,“ Chong said. Looking ahead, he said Magnum will continue to prepare responsibly and trans parently, in close alignment with regulators. “Our ambition is clear: to build a modern, trusted, and human-centred Magnum that remains a valued and responsible part of Malaysian life for generations to come.”

experience simpler, more efficient and more convenient, guided by what customers consistently tell us they need,“ Chong said. He said nearly 500 Magnum outlets are equipped with barcode scanners, with frontline staff trained to assist customers using QR codes and dedicated express lanes are in place to speed up service, reduce errors from manual entry, enhance the customer experience and minimise paper usage. Chong said from an industry perspective, Magnum believes that innovation and strong regulation are mutually reinforcing. He said PlayNow demonstrates how tech nology can enhance transparency, accuracy, record-keeping and efficiency while main taining human oversight, safeguards and regulatory discipline. The digital transformation sets a benchmark for the responsible use of technology and signals that the industry is operationally,