21/04/2026

BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | APR 21, 2026

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Genting Malaysia enters into MoU with China’s AGIBOT Eight Asian markets record net inflows totalling RM17.35 billion KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign investors were net buyers for the second consecutive week across eight Asian markets, with net foreign inflows totalling US$4.39 billion (RM17.35 billion), according to MBSB Investment Bank Bhd (MBSB IB). In its fund flow report for the week ended April 17, 2026, the investment bank said net buying activities were led by Taiwan and India while net selling was led by South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia. It said foreign institutions on Bursa Malaysia turned net sellers on three out of five trading days during the week, snapping the three-week streak of net buying, recording RM63.7 million in outflows. “The largest outflow was recorded on Wednesday (RM102.3 million), followed by Thursday (RM87.5 million) and Friday (RM59 million). “The top three sectors that recorded net foreign inflows were financial services (RM342 million), energy (RM37.2 million) and plantation (RM32.3 million). “Meanwhile, the top three sectors that recorded net foreign outflows were utilities (RM103.7 million), healthcare (RM99.1 million), and consumer products and services (RM79.5 million), “ it said. – Bernama

Malaysia remains optimistic on 2026 growth outlook: Minister PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia remains optimistic on 2026’s growth outlook despite uncertain geopolitics issues, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said yesterday. He said Malaysia’s 2026 economic outlook appears to be more resilient compared to some other countries. “I think we started from a very good year in 2025, and it continued into the first quarter of 2026. So in terms of growth, it indicates that economic activities continue to grow. “Geopolitical issues have affected our economy, from the aspect of outlook we want to remain positive for 2026 but also we need to be cautious although we do have the resilience. “For Malaysia we do have better resilience compared to other countries but at the same time if we are too complacent with what we have, that may affect whatever we have already built,“ he told the media after the Economy Ministry Monthly Assembly here. On inflation, he said although there is a slight increase whereby the latest data showed inflation edged up slightly from 1.4% in February to 1.7% in March, the situation is under control compared with other countries. “In terms of inflation, we have to look at the basket or the things that are taken into account and the policies that the government is adopting show that they (the policies) eased inflation for March compared to other countries, but that is not something for us to be proud of. In fact, we know the impact is no longer just on fuel supply. “The government is also building a buffer. For example if there is an incentive for farmers to start their planting process to some extent to ensure that planting can continue. “But also the impact of this inflation may be a little lagging because we still have strength in terms of inventory and other things.“ While current inventory levels and existing measures may delay the full impact of inflation, Akmal Nasrullah said that sustained increases in input costs, whether due to higher prices or supply constraints, will eventually have wider economic implications. – Bernama

GENTING HIGHLANDS: Genting Malaysia Bhd (GENM) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with AGIBOT Innovation (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd, to advance embodied artificial intelligence (AI) robotics across the hospitality, entertainment and leisure industries. The MoU was formalised yesterday during the AGIBOT Partners Conference (APC2026) in Shanghai, China, bringing together global leaders to explore the future of robotics and AI-driven ecosystems. Representing GENM at the signing was Resorts World Genting COO Aaron Chia Khong Chid, witnessed by GENM deputy chairman and chief executive Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay; chief executive and executive director Datuk Indera Lim Keong Hui; and president Lee Thiam Kit while AGIBOT was represented by Malaysia director Steven Ding, witnessed by Asia-Pacific Middle East region president Abel Deng; partner and co-president Daniel Jiang; and founder and CEO Deng Taihua. The collaboration between GENM and AGIBOT aims to establish a joint framework to explore, develop and commercialise innovative robotics solutions tailored to real-world applications. By combining AGIBOT’s strengths in embodied robotics with GENM’s expertise in integrated resort operations, the collaboration is set to accelerate the adoption of

approach in shaping the future of hospitality and entertainment. “As guest expectations continue to evolve, we are constantly exploring new ways to deliver more immersive, seamless and memorable experiences,” said Chia. “This collaboration with AGIBOT allows us to take a meaningful step into the world of embodied robotics, where technology can enhance both service and storytelling within our integrated resort environment. “We believe this initiative will open new opportunities to redefine how guests interact with ourspaces while strengthening our position as a forward leader in the tourism industry.” Deng said this collaboration represents a major milestone as AGIBOT deploys embodied AI robotics solutions into real-world, large-scale integrated resort environments. By combining AGIBOT’s cutting-edge humanoid robotics with GENM’s operational excellence and creative vision, he added, they aim to redefine guest engagement and service standards across theme parks, hotels, and live entertainment. “Theupcoming Robotics Gala Performance at Resorts World Genting marks just the beginning – together, we are building a scalable ecosystem in which humanoid robots enhance human experiences in meaningful and compelling ways,” he said.

o Collaboration aims to advance embodied AI in leisure and hospitality, and entertainment

Chia (left) and Ding take a commemorative photo following the signing of the MoU at the AGIBOT Partners Conference in Shanghai.

intelligent while enhancing operational efficiency and guest experiences. Under the MoU, both parties will focus on developing robotics solutions across three key areas: theme parks, leisure & hospitality and entertainment. This includes the development of humanoid robots for guest interaction, concierge and service functions, as well as robotics integration in live shows and immersive attractions. The collaboration will also encompass joint research and development initiatives, pilot projects and the creation of scalable application ecosystems. automation

To support initial deployment efforts, GENM will be acquiring and deploying embodied robots from AGIBOT to support pilot programmes and operational integration across its properties. At the conference, AGIBOT also announced the launch of Malaysia’s first Robotics Gala Performance, set to debut at Resorts World Genting. The showcase, scheduled for early 2027, will feature cutting-edge AI robots in a live performance setting, offering audiences a first-of-its-kind immersive entertainment experience in the country. “Innovation has always been central to Genting Malaysia’s

TNG Digital, KK Mart tie up to digitise salary payments for migrant workers KUALA LUMPUR: TNG Digital Sdn Bhd, the operator of Malaysia’s digital financial services and lifestyle app, TNG eWallet, has partnered with KK Mart to digitise salary payments for their migrant workers nationwide. salary disbursement of RM4.8 billion in 2025 alone. KK Mart is among the first major retail chains in Malaysia to adopt eWallet-based salary disbursement at scale. face roadblocks when it comes to opening bank accounts or receiving salaries securely. “By providing salary disbursement through TNG eWallet, we empower them with financial control, security, and convenience. and affordable channels for remittance and mobile top-ups, these services help workers manage their finances, support their families back home, and stay connected, all within a single, accessible platform.

“At KK Mart, we’re committed to making a difference in the lives of our employees,” said KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd founder and director Datuk Seri Dr Chai Kee Kan. “By adopting TNG eWallet as one of our salary payment methods, we’re eliminating the obstacles many migrant workers face with traditional banking and ensuring they’re paid reliably, securely, and on time. “We’re proud to lead by example in the retail sector, making financial access more inclusive and human,” Beyond salary disbursement, TNG eWallet offers a comprehensive ecosystem of digital financial tools designed to meet the everyday needs of migrant workers in Malaysia. From enabling global transactions and ATM access via the Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa Card, to providing secure

By integrating TNG eWallet into its payroll system, the company enhances operational efficiency, reduces cash handling and admin friction, and empowers its migrant workforce with real-time, secure access to their earnings. Workers can instantly receive and manage their funds, make purchases, transfer money, and access banking like services through their DuitNow account number, all without needing a traditional bank account. TNG Digital CEO Alan Ni said: “This partnership is about solving real life challenges. Many unbanked communities, such as migrant workers,

To ensure a seamless rollout, KK Mart’s Human Resources teams have undergone dedicated training, while TNG Digital provided on-site support in registration and onboarding. This joint initiative underscores the role that digital innovation can play in strengthening workforce resilience and promoting equitable financial access for all. As Malaysia advances toward a digital economy, collaborations like this demonstrate how modernising payroll can deliver tangible benefits for both employers and workers, while helping close the financial inclusion gap.

This marks a significant step in expanding inclusive payroll options for underserved and unbanked in Malaysia’s retail workforce. Approved by Jabatan Tenaga Kerja Semenanjung Malaysia (JTKSM) since August 2024, TNG eWallet is one of recognised payroll solutions for employers, particularly for workers who face challenges in opening traditional banking accounts. Today, over 160,000 migrant workers in Malaysia receive their wages directly into their TNG eWallet accounts, contributing to a cumulative

“We’re proud to support KK Mart’s journey in meeting real needs on the ground, starting with something as fundamental as getting paid. This is more than a collaboration, it’s a step towards a more inclusive digital economy.” By adopting TNG eWallet as one of its salary payment methods, KK Mart is strengthening its payroll processes while supporting the financial well being of its workforce. The move reduces administrative complexity, improves compliance, and aligns with responsible employment practices.