BMCC Newsletter Issue #417 - (12 August 2024)
Dear Subscriber, |
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This week's highlights:
- A farewell message from the British High Commissioner to Malaysia
- Recruitment and expansion in Malaysia's semiconductor scene
- Welcoming our newest Emerald Member to our network!
- New event alert! Explore private healthcare in Malaysia
- Secure an advertising space in our Membership Director!
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A Farewell Message from Her Excellency Ailsa Terry CMG, British High Commissioner to Malaysia |
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Dear BMCC members, I am writing to inform you that I have been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Private Secretary for Foreign Affairs in No 10. While I feel privileged to take on this role, it means that I must sadly end my tenure as British High Commissioner to Malaysia earlier than expected. |
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Unfortunately, this move means I have to step down as Co-Patron of the BMCC, which I do with real regret. I was delighted and honoured to be joined by Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah KBE earlier this year as my Co-Patron, and I know his leadership and wisdom will be invaluable, especially during this period of transition. It has been a great honour to serve as High Commissioner to Malaysia, working together with you on our shared priorities and advancing the deep and growing partnership in trade and investment, energy transition, new emerging technologies, education, and the people-to-people ties that bind our countries so strongly together. I have been honoured to serve as Co-Patron and I have seen first-hand all the great work that you do. I have attended so many new office openings, MOU signings, and business deal announcements during my time here. The engagement has really demonstrated the vibrancy, dynamism and potential of the bilateral trade relationship. My family and I leave Malaysia with fond memories as we reflect on the beauty, dynamism, and diversity of this country and its people, and bid farewell to the many friends that have touched our lives. In an uncertain world, I am convinced that it is more important than ever for Malaysia and the UK to continue to work together on shared international priorities, from enhancing our economic prosperity and meeting net-zero goals to tackling the global challenges of today and the future such as energy security, climate change and biodiversity loss. The coming into force of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) for the UK later this year means the work of the Chamber and all of you will be even more critical in helping to boost bilateral trade as the UK and Malaysia gain their first free trade agreement. I am certain that this spirit of partnership and collaboration between our two countries will continue to grow and flourish under my successor. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly and I wish you every success for the future. We are lucky to have such a dynamic and professional Chamber here in Malaysia, and I will always be a supporter of the BMCC. Best wishes, Ailsa |
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Malaysia's Strategic Move to Develop Semiconductor Design Capabilities |
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Malaysia is making significant progress in developing its semiconductor design capabilities to reduce reliance on imported chips.
Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli emphasised the federal government's strategic initiative to enhance the entire semiconductor ecosystem. This initiative focuses on both upstream and downstream sectors, with a particular emphasis on original design manufacturers (ODM).
Partnerships and Goals At the launch of the Malaysia Semiconductor IC Design Park, Rafizi announced plans to transition from "Made in Malaysia" to "Made by Malaysia." This park, in collaboration with the federal government, international semiconductor companies, and venture capitalists, aims to position Malaysia as a key player in the global IC (integrated circuit) design industry. The initiative is part of the KL20 Initiative announced in April.
Economic and Technological Implications Menteri Besar of Selangor Amirudin Shari highlighted the critical role semiconductors will play in the future global economy. He noted the technological competition between the United States and China and stressed the importance of preparing Selangor's talent pool for this technological battle.
Talent Recruitment and Opportunities Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) CEO Yong Kai Ping announced active recruitment efforts for skilled candidates with degrees in electrical and electronics engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and computer science.
Sidec is also assisting IC companies in recruiting experienced engineers to lead their expansion within Selangor IC Design Park. |
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It is hoped that Cyberview in Cyberjaya will provide an advanced unit with a strong ecosystem to accommodate more engineers. |
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This comprehensive approach places Malaysia as a formidable player in the high-tech semiconductor industry and aligns with the National Semiconductor Strategy set earlier this year.
The BMCC fully supports Malaysia's strategic initiative to enhance its semiconductor design capabilities, aligning with the nation's goal to reduce reliance on imported chips. We are committed to fostering partnerships and driving progress in this sector, which is vital to Malaysia's economic growth and technological advancement. |
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| Introducing Our Newest Emerald Member, W1 Dining! |
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We're proud to have W1 Dining joining our network of members as an Emerald member.
W1 is all about British dining with a focus on London that aims to bring its vibrant taste, atmosphere, and style to Kuala Lumpur. |
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The melting pot of London is home to every style of food and beverage internationally available. Tuned, tweaked, and constantly updated, they deliver the best of London's food and drinks. With such amazing global influences, the London dining scene has never been more vibrant.
Filled with London art and icons, they bring the taste of traditional dishes, creative adaptations of international dishes, and an incredible cocktail scene.
Find out more about them here. |
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Mark your calendars for exciting events we have from August through December!
Looking to be Involved in our Events? BMCC Members interested in enhancing their brand visibility or seeking opportunities for speaking engagements and exhibition space are encouraged to reach out. Contact us at events@bmcc.org.my to learn more about our events, explore partnership opportunities and maximise your organisation’s presence. |
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| 22 August | BMCC Networking in Johor |
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| 23 August | BMCC Excellence Showcase: Site Visit to IOI Palm Wood |
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| 29 August | BMCC Connect: Members Mix & Mingle |
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| 5 September | Breakfast Briefing with MIDA |
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| 3 October | Bridging Borders: Exploring Malaysia's Private Healthcare |
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| 5 October | The Great British Brunch at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur |
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| 14 November | Economic Outlook & Post-Budget 2025 with EY |
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| 29 November | BMCC Networking Session in Penang |
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| 6 December | Annual Corporate Christmas Luncheon at Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur |
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For more info on our events, head on over to our website with the button below. |
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| Secure Your Spot in BMCC's Membership Directory! |
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We're calling all members to seize this opportunity to be featured in our inaugural Membership Directory - the ultimate resource for connecting with British and Malaysian organisations.
This directory will offer: - A comprehensive listing of businesses and services by sectors
- In-depth articles on industry insights and best practices
- Exclusive interviews with top executives and thought leaders
- Premium advertising space to offer prime visibility and enhanced brand recognition
- Access to 24 MILLION professionals across the British Chamber Network
For information, such as member benefits, advertising rates, and more, click the button below! |
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| BMCC is Calling for Public Comments, Feedback, and Proposals for Budget 2025 |
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We are collating our members' feedback to be shared with the Ministry of Finance (MOF) Malaysia to guide the national budget formulation. |
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Members are encouraged to share their responses and opinions on Budget 2025 to Yoong@bmcc.org.my by 29 August.
Information we need from our members: - Key issues you want BMCC to highlight
- Background/ context for clarity into the issue
- Possible recommendations/ proposals to address the issue at hand
- Estimated impact of the issue in value (RM)
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| BMCC Holds 4th Committee and Network Chairs Meeting |
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The Chairs of BMCC's Sector Committees and Advocacy Networks recently convened to discuss the BMCC's direction in supporting these groups in their missions. |
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The meeting was an opportune moment to address the priorities of the Chamber, which included potential cross-committee activities, collating suggestions to improve our future events, planning for National Budget 2025 and ASEAN 2025, and a briefing on upcoming Chamber initiatives.
We thank Mak Joon Nien, Chairman of the BMCC and Managing Director and CEO of Standard Chartered Malaysia, for granting us the space to conduct this meeting.
We also thank those who attended the meeting: Anthony Partington, Chair of the Education Committee; Prof. Abhi Veerakumarasivam, CAG Member and Advocacy Group Lead for the Higher Education Committee; Syima Thani Abdullah, CAG Member for the Healthcare Committee; the Built Environment Committee's Chair Martin Haeger and Deputy Chair Eusoffe Chua; the Talent Network's Chair Nic Chambers and Deputy Chair Sukhbir Singh; Chair of the DEI Network, Natasha Zulkifli; and CEO of the BMCC, Jennifer Lopez. |
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| Meeting with the University of Reading Malaysia |
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The University of Reading Malaysia recently visited our office, having travelled from their campus in Johor Bahru. After a productive and rousing discussion session, the BMCC looks forward to working closely with them in the future to increase brand visibility and university-to-industry engagement, as well as endeavour to close the talent gap. |
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The University of Reading Malaysia's team consisted of Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor; Elizabeth Allen, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Internationalisation) and Head of International Study and Language Institute; Prof. Dr. Teck Yong Eng, Head of Henly Business School and Director of CGBECA; Nandan Ramachandran, Registrar and Director for Student Welfare and Academic Services; and Dr. Lamma Zghoul, Senior Global Partnerships Manager. |
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| Meeting with University of Strathclyde |
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Our CEO, Jennifer Lopez, met with Julian Taylor, Executive Head of International Business Engagement for the University of Strathclyde to discuss further collaborations and how the Chamber can support them in their endeavours in the higher education industry. |
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| Meeting with GCH Retail Malaysia |
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We recently met with Dr. Andrea Lim of GCH Retail Malaysia to discuss how we could collaborate and raise awareness for their brand.
GCH Retail Malaysia is a hypermarket brand and retailer chain with operations in Malaysia and Singapore. It does business as Giant Mall and also operates Mercató, Cold Storage, and TMC in Malaysia.
The Chamber looks forward to supporting their expansion and connecting them with our members in the future. |
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| Congratulations, YBhg Dato' Sri Shamsul Azri on his Appointment as Chief Secretary to the Government of Malaysia |
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Congratulations to Yang Berbahagia Dato' Sri Shamsul Azri bin Abu Bakar, who has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary to the Government of Malaysia. His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, consented to the appointment. |
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Dato' Sri Shamsul Azri has served in the public sector for 30 years and will be leaving his position as director-general of the Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS). On August 12, he will replace Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Dato' Seri Mohd Zuki bin Ali, whose service and dedication to reforming the public delivery system are highly valued.
We look forward to seeing the change Dato' Sri Shamsul Azri will bring in his new position, and wish him all the best in his new role. |
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| UK Joins First Global Digital Trade Agreement Negotiated under World Trade Organisation |
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On 26 July, The UK joined a groundbreaking agreement which is designed to grow the economy by boosting global digital trade.
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After five years of negotiations, the UK and 90 other countries have finalised the E-Commerce Joint Initiative at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which will make trade faster, cheaper, fairer and more secure. It will help British businesses, workers and consumers seize the opportunities of global digital trade, which is estimated by the OECD to be worth around £4 trillion and growing.
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| ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 a Catalyst for More Resilient, Integrated Region |
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Malaysia's upcoming ASEAN chairmanship offers a pivotal opportunity to lead the region towards greater integration and resilience, according to Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
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He said that Malaysia's Priority Economic Deliverables (PED) will act as a catalyst, positioning ASEAN as a significant player in the global economic landscape.
"The PED is anchored on four key thrusts: enhancing trade and investment among ASEAN member states, integrating and connecting economies, fostering an inclusive and sustainable future, and preparing for the digital future."
Read the full article here. |
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| Life At Work Awards 2024 (LAWA) by Talent Corporation Malaysia (TalentCorp) is now Open for Submissions! |
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| MGTC | Join Training Sessions on Green Practices for the Industry |
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The Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) will be hosting a series of training sessions on Green Practices for the Industry, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of local manufacturers, producers, suppliers, distributors, and service providers to meet the demands of both local and international markets in alignment with the National Green Technology Policy.
BMCC Members are invited to the following training sessions. Brochures for each sector in the links provided:
Venue: Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) Office Tentative Programme: Here
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| Marlborough College Malaysia | Save the Dates for These Admissions Events! |
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Experience the extraordinary at Marlborough College Malaysia, a global top 100 school, with these exciting admissions events.
Singapore Information Evening Venue: The British Club, Singapore Date: 3 September 2024 Time: 5.30 pm
Admissions Open Morning Venue: Marlborough College Malaysia Date: 7 September 2024 Time: 8.30 am
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| Michael Page | Moving Beyond The Rhetoric Of Diversity, Equity And Inclusion |
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Malaysia is lauded for its diversity, but how much of that is actually reflected in the corporate world?
BMCC Board Member and Chair of our Talent Network, Nic Chambers, Managing Director of Michael Page Malaysia discussed findings from the 2024 Talent Trends Report with BFM, focusing on the issue of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
Listen to the podcast here! |
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| Universiti Malaya | The UM Research Carnival is Back! |
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Universiti Malaya is delighted to announce the return of the UM Research Carnival!
Date: 15 to 17 December 2024 Time: 9 am to 5 pm Venue: Dewan Tunku Canselor (DTC), UM
Objectives - To showcase UM Research outputs and activities
- To provide a platform for researchers to network and engage with industry, society, government, and policymakers
- To stimulate multidisciplinary interactions among researchers & stakeholders
- To encourage impact-driven and societal-focused research
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For sponsorship opportunities and participation, kindly refer to the attachment here.
For more details or to discuss further, don't hesitate to get in touch with them at +6 (03) 7967 7350. |
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| Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur | Indulge in a Mid-Autumn's Golden Dream |
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Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur and Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur proudly unveil Malaysia's first mooncake packaging with Augmented Reality (AR) features in celebration of the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival.
Teaming up with renowned Malaysian artist Jaee Tee, known for her semi-abstract art that fuses tradition with contemporary elements, and blending Western influences while honouring her Chinese heritage. Her distinctive style brings a refreshing twist to this cherished tradition.
This exclusive promotion lasts until 17 September and provides an ideal opportunity to share with colleagues, friends, or loved ones. Please note that delivery service is available for our mooncake collection and is subject to charges based on the delivery address and quantity. Fees will be determined by our delivery partner.
Find out more about their offers here!
Order online here. To place bulk orders or confirm your collection date and time, reach out to Jade Pavilion via WhatsApp at +60 10 397 7833. |
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| EQ Hotel | Enjoy Traditional Swiss Continental Fine Dining |
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Known for its award-winning cuisine and memorable dining experience since 1974, the Chalet Swiss Restaurant has returned to its roots at EQ. Menu items include Classic Caesar Salad, Raclette Valaisanne, Lobster Thermidor, Zuercher Veal Emince, and desserts like Crêpes Suzette and Sabayon, all of which are served table-side at the Chalet.
Join EQ in the journey of the past for a limited time only!
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| EQ Hotel | Enhance Your Mid-Autumn Festival with Celestial Treasure Mooncakes |
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From 15 June to 22 September, share the joy of the Mid-autumn festival with EQ's specially crafted mooncakes.
Deemed by those in the know as some of the best hotel mooncakes in Kuala Lumpur, selections for this season bring together traditional flavours and innovative new combinations designed to delight.
There is an early bird offer of 10% for orders placed between 1 to 31 August 2024. There are also bulk buying privileges, customisation and delivery services available with a minimum purchase. For orders and inquiries, please reach out to dineateqkl@kul.equatorial.com.
Access their catalogue here! |
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| Hilton Kuala Lumpur Offers Dining Perks for BMCC Members! |
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Hilton Kuala Lumpur is extending a 20% discount off the total bill to BMCC Members!
The offer is applicable at their premium outlets including Vasco’s (Buffet / All Day Dining), Graze (Italian Cuisine), Chambers Grill (Steak House), and Chynna (Chinese Cuisine) including their beautiful creations for the Mid-Autumn Festival. |
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Members can enjoy the discount at participating outlets from 1 July - 31 December 2024.
Terms & conditions for the offer are: 1. 20% discount on total bill (excluding alcoholic beverages) applicable with a minimum spend of RM150.00 nett in a single receipt. 2. This discount cannot be combined with any other offer, promotion, or discount, including Hilton Honors benefits 3. Prior reservation is required as the offer is subject to black-out dates. Members must present the EDM/Newsletter received with the offer messaging prior to dining in. 4. Applicable for dine-in only.
Find out more and book here! |
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| Hilton Kuala Lumpur | Get Premium Mooncakes this Mid-Autumn Festival with an Exclusive Discount! |
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Share stories, laughter, and savour heartfelt reunions. This Mid-Autumn, celebrate tradition with those who matter most with Hilton Kuala Lumpur's premium handcrafted mooncakes designed by local artist Jaemy.C.
Hilton Kuala Lumpur is extending a 20% discount off the total bill to BMCC members, which is applicable to their beautiful creations for the Mid-Autumn Festival.
This premium series is available from 1 July to 17 September 2024.
Click here for more information! |
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| IGB International School | Embark on a New Journey at their Open Day on 17 August |
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We're delighted to share the following news on behalf of our member, IGB International School.
Save the Date! Date: Saturday, 17 August 2024 Time: 10 am to 1 pm |
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Join them for an exciting Open Day at IGBIS! This is a fantastic opportunity to meet with their Head of School, Dr Gregory Brunton, our dedicated educators, embark on a guided tour of their extensive campus and state-of-the-art facilities, and discover how their International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes inspire their young ones to think and act globally, preparing them for a rapidly changing world.
Experience unparalleled education at IGBIS by registering here today! See you then! |
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| KPJ Healthcare Unveils New Brand Identity in Exciting New Chapter |
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Our member, KPJ Healthcare Berhad, has unveiled its new brand identity, intensifying its push for patient-centricity as a foundation for exponential growth and competitive edge in the dynamically evolving healthcare landscape. |
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"The rebranding is a symbol of KPJ's transformation and progress as we accelerate our efforts to deliver an improved experience driven by technology and innovation. The rebranding exercise goes hand-in-hand with enhancement of our service delivery to all stakeholders" Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare.
Read the full article here! |
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| The RuMa Hotel | Experience Mooncake Festival Joy with these Mid-Autumn Treats |
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Enjoy this exclusive mid-autumn mooncake selection!
The RuMa Hotel and Residences proudly presents a luxurious mooncake gift box packaging featuring four exquisite flavours!
Promotion Period: Pre-order from 19 July 2024. Pick-up starts from 24 August 2024. Enjoy a 10% off throughout the sales period.
Price: MYR218 nett per box. |
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- Nyonya Sambal Hae Bee - Savoury white lotus paste with dried shrimp, belacan, chilli, and kaffir lime.
- Honey Longan - Sweet white lotus paste with dried honey longan from Chiang Mai.
- Ondeh - Rich pandan lotus paste with gula Melaka and Hawaiian desiccated coconut.
- Callebaut 811 - Decadent Belgian chocolate lotus paste with Ferrero Rocher.
Celebrate the mid-autumn festival with The RuMa Hotel's mooncake gift box, the perfect way to share the joy of this festive season!
Advanced order recommended and subject to availability. For enquiries and purchases, please WhatsApp +6012 527 7847 or email to IRD@theruma.com.
Terms and conditions apply. |
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Stay up to date with the Chamber’s latest news and activities through this newsletter or follow us on our social media platforms. |
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British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce Berhad 201801018075 (1280091-P) No 02-B, Menara IQ, Lingkaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange, 55188 Kuala Lumpur Copyright © BMCC 2024 |
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