07/05/2026

BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

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Local business events industry drives global connectivity, collaboration KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s business events industry continues to strengthen its role in driving economic growth, know ledge development and global connectivity through stronger collaboration among the government, industry players and pro fessional associations. Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said: “Through strong collaboration between government, industry players, and professional asso ciations, Malaysia remains well-positioned to attract high-impact international con ferences, corporate meetings and in centives, and exhibitions.” He said this in his opening remarks at the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) Association Day 2026 yesterday. Shaharuddin said that MyCEB Association Day served as an important platform that brings together association leaders and the business events industry. “This year’s theme – ‘Governing with Purpose. Leading with Impact’ – is both timely and highly relevant. It underscores the evolving role of associations, not only as professional bodies but as strategic partners that drive knowledge exchange, elevate industry excellence, and global connectivity,” he said. He said Motac remained committed to bolstering Malaysia’s business events ecosystem via MyCEB’s strategic initiatives, including expanding international colla borations, accelerating digital adoption, and advancing sustainability practices aligned with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Meanwhile, MyCEB CEO Tan Mei Phing said associations continued to serve as key enablers within the business events ecosystem by driving innovation, facili tating knowledge exchange and attracting international events to Malaysia. “Associations are more than pro fessional communities. They are catalysts for progress, connecting expertise, advancing innovation, and shaping industry standards at both national and international levels,” she said in her welcoming remarks. Tan said international conferences and conventions not only generated economic value, but also facilitated the exchange of ideas, technology and expertise that benefited industries and communities. She said MyCEB’s Kesatria Malaysia Programme had secured 111 inter national business events, attracted over 135,000 delegates and generated approximately RM1.74 billion in economic impact to date. Tan said programmes such as MyTripleE 3.0 under the“Meet in Malaysia” campaign were designed to support organisers in delivering impactful, future-ready events through stronger marketing support, sustainability inte gration, and technology adoption. Separately, Malaysia Society of Asso ciation Executives president Lydia Abdul Latif said associations must evolve beyond traditional roles and focus on delivering meaningful value to members amid growing industry challenges. “We live in a time where member loyalty is no longer given. It is earned through transparency, agility and tangible values.”

UOB Malaysia delivers record earnings in 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: UOB Malaysia reported a record net profit before tax (NPBT) of RM2.5 billion and total operating income of RM4.9 billion for the financial year ended 2025. This was driven by a 9.5% growth in operating profit and a lower level of expected credit losses, supported by writebacks of non-impaired assets. UOB Malaysia’s net profit before tax increased by 15.6% (2024: RM2.2 billion), while operating income grew by 4.5% to RM4.9 billion (2024: RM4.7 billion) backed by net interest income growth from an optimised balance sheet, better non-interest income and higher income contribution from Islamic Banking business. Meanwhile, the bank’s cost to income ratio improved by more than 2% reflecting continued disciplined cost management across the bank while total allowances for expected credit losses declined significantly by almost 70% benefited from write-back of non-impaired assets. In 2025, UOB Malaysia’s gross loans, advances and financing grew

outlook on Malaysia’s position of relative strength amid global uncertainties, backed by resilient domestic demand, a stable labour market and steady investment flows, alongside national initiatives that are strengthening economic complexity and accelerating the shift towards higher value-added sectors. The bank has also put in place its financial relief assistance programme to support customers affected by the West Asia conflict and strongly encourages customers that anticipate or are already experiencing financial difficulties to engage early with the bank by contacting its dedicated support channels or relationship managers. In recognition of its consistent financial performance, strong regional connectivity, and commitment to sustainability, UOB Malaysia was awarded FinanceAsia’s 2026 Best Bank and Best Sustainable Bank in Malaysia under the International Categories. This achievement marks the second consecutive year the bank has secured both accolades.

o Net profit before tax rises to new high of RM2.5 billion, total operating income grows to RM4.9 billion

by 2.8% to RM112.6 billion (2024:RM109.5 billion), supported by steady growth across both its wholesale and retail segments. Meanwhile non-bank deposits rose 5.8% to RM121.3 billion (2024: RM114.6 billion). As the bank continued to strengthen its balance sheet, it remained focus on growing and maintaining quality deposits, resulting in improved funding mix and higher CASA ratio. CEO Ng Wei Wei said: “ We are pleased to deliver a record net profit before tax of RM2.5 billion in 2025, reflecting steady income growth across our core businesses, disciplined cost management and lower credit cost . “This strong performance reflects the resilience of our franchise, prudent risk management and our continued

focus on building a sustainable, well-balanced business to support our customers and Malaysia’s long-term growth.” The bank’s solid credit standing and stable outlook were also reaffirmed by its AAA rating by RAM Holdings Bhd, a distinction it has maintained since 2012. Its capital position remained strong, with a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 14.7% and a Total Capital Ratio of 17.9%, well above regulatory requirements, providing a sufficient buffer to support future growth. As UOB Malaysia marks its 75th year, the bank remains focused on deepening regional connectivity, strengthening its platforms and scaling cross-border capabilities to support customers’ growth. This is supported by the bank’s

Manforce Group opens at 37.5 sen in ACE Market debut KUALA LUMPUR: Manforce Group Bhd, a comprehensive provider of foreign workers’ management services, manual labour services, and hostel management solutions, debuted yesterday on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd. business operations through new recruitment quotas; RM4.64 million for the enhancement of IT and operational systems; RM6.32 million for working capital to support the group’s growing business activities; and RM4.70 million for listing-related expenses. Independent non-executive workers, we have evolved into one of Malaysia’s most established and trusted workforce management companies. “This IPO provides us with the financial foundation to expand our capacity, invest in technology, and further strengthen our compliance-driven business model,” she said. (From left) Eco Asia Capital Advisory Sdn Bhd executive director Kelly Neng; corporate finance head Woon Soon Fai and Group CEO Kelvin Khoo, Manforce Group finance director Chin Kok Weng, Tengku Faizwa, and managing director Datuk Wong Boon Ming; M & A Equity Holdings Berhad Datuk Bill Tan and corporate finance deputy head Danny Wong, Manforce Group non-independent non-executive directors Datin Lim Gun Kiau, Tan Yiing Fung, Lim Chai Har and Koh Eng Siong.

accelerate its business expansion, strengthen its digital infrastructure, and enhance operational scalability. As Malaysia’s industries continue to rely on professional and compliant workforce solutions, Manforce remains committed to supporting national employment goals through technology, governance, and sustainable workforce management. M & A Securities Sdn Bhd is the principal adviser, sponsor, underwriter, and placement agent for the IPO, while Eco Asia Capital Advisory Sdn Bhd serves as the financial adviser for the group.

The group’s shares opened at 37.5 sen, close to its initial public offering (IPO) price of 38 sen. Through its IPO, Manforce raised RM30.40 million in gross proceeds from the issuance of 79.99 million new shares. The proceeds will be utilised – RM14.74 million for the expansion of

chairperson Tengku Faizwa Tengku Razif said their listing yesterday marked a major milestone in Manforce’s journey of growth and transformation. “From our early beginnings managing a small pool of foreign

“We are deeply grateful to our team, clients, and investors for their confidence and support as we embark on this next chapter.” The listing provides Manforce with a strategic platform to