BMCC Newsletter Issue #448 - (3 March 2025) |
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Weekly Highlights: - Headline of the Week: Charting Malaysia’s AI Future: Exclusive Insights from the NAIO
- NEW! Premium Member's Spotlight: Meet Sugeeta Bhanoo of BAE Systems!
- Welcome Our New Members: Consort Hardware and IMU University
- Get details on our upcoming event: 20 Mar | BMCC MEET-UP: Networking on Tap at W1 Petaling Street
- NEW! Showcase Your Business in our 2025 UK-Malaysia Education Guide!
- Highlights from our Sector Committee Meetings
- Attend exciting events by our members and stakeholders!
- NEW! UK Government | 4-13 Mar - Expert-Led Discussions to Selling in APAC
- NEW! Charterhouse Malaysia | 15 Mar - Open Day & STEAM Fair
- NEW! Malaysia Airlines | Introducing MHCorporate SME
- NEW! Melbourne Capital Group | 5 Mar - Deep Dive on the American Moment
- NEW! ADP | Exclusive Payroll Services for BMCC Members!
- NEW! Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre | 8 - 26 Mar - Ramadan Buffet
- CMI | 25 Mar - Inclusive Leadership Webinar
- Pavilion Hotel | Aroma Citarasa Selatan
- NEW! Samadhi Retreats | Corporate Meetings with a Difference
- NEW! Stonyhurst Penang | 14 Mar - Open Day
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Charting Malaysia’s AI Future: Exclusive Insights from the NAIO |
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Dear Subscriber,
We recently had Sam Majid, Head of Malaysia’s National AI Office (NAIO), sharing his insights into Malaysia’s direction for AI development at our office in Menara IQ. The session marked the first instalment of our Government Dialogue Series, offering BMCC members a deep dive into the country’s evolving digital landscape. |
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During the fireside chat on ‘Charting the Path of AI’, C-suite executives, senior management, and key representatives from BMCC member companies gained valuable perspectives on the NAIO’s establishment and its pivotal role in ensuring Malaysia remains a global contender in the digital economy.
As a relatively new entity under Malaysia’s Ministry of Digital (MD), the NAIO is tasked with driving talent development, attracting national and foreign investments, and ensuring the ethical and secure adoption of AI across industries. AI’s potential extends beyond technology, influencing sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, transportation, MSMEs, education, and public services. |
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The institution of the NAIO comes at a crucial time as digital investments in Malaysia have been skyrocketing with the Government's dedication to advancing AI and computing, w ith domestic and foreign investments funnelling RM163.6 billion into Malaysia's digital sector. |
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During his presentation, Sam emphasised the significance of AI utilisation in advancing the tech sector, while underscoring the need for greater public awareness and digital literacy. Initiatives that drive talent development in technology fields, like MDEC's eUsahawan programme, encourage Malaysians to remain competitive in the digital economy, but Sam also emphasised that digital literacy needs to be widespread if AI is to be set for national implementation, as well as assuage concerns surrounding AI. Sam also encouraged businesses and investors keen on AI adoption in Malaysia to connect with the NAIO for guidance on navigating AI regulations. More details can be found on their website.
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Sam also called for potential investors and companies looking to pursue AI adoption and advancement in Malaysia to contact them via their website here for a smoother process in navigating AI regulations. More updates on the NAIO’s continued efforts will also be on their site. |
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We extend our sincere appreciation to Sam Majid for his engaging presentation and to all attendees for their thought-provoking discussions. As Malaysia’s AI ecosystem continues to evolve, we look forward to even more groundbreaking developments in this dynamic space. |
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| Meet Sugeeta R. Bhanoo, Director at BAE Systems! |
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This month, we’re spotlighting Sugeeta R. Bhanoo, Director and Head of Capabilities APAC for BAE Systems, in our Premium Member Spotlight!
“BAE Systems has been in Malaysia for more than 50 years. Our first entity was incorporated in 1972, and since then, we have created a number of entities to support our products and services in the defence, aerospace and cyber domains in Malaysia."
“Joining the BMCC offers UK headquartered businesses like ours valuable networking opportunities in Malaysia. It connects companies with local businesses, facilitating partnerships and helping to establish a strong presence within the Malaysian market.
Read more about our interview with Sugee and BAE Systems here! |
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Please join us in welcoming our new members, Consort Hardware and IMU University! |
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| Introducing Consort Hardware Malaysia! |
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Since its inception in 1974 in Birmingham, UK, Consort has become a leading manufacturer & supplier of architectural door hardware products. |
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They now have offices and distribution centres in the UK, USA, Dubai, Qatar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, South Africa, India, The Philippines and most recently, Malaysia.
Their qualified and experienced team offers full specification writing and consultancy services to architects, designers, developers, contractors, and end-users.
Visit their website here! |
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| Please Welcome IMU University! |
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IMU University in Malaysia focuses on education and training in healthcare and medical sciences. Its main activities include offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Allied Health, and Biomedical Sciences. |
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The university is known for its medical and dental education. IMU also engages in health sciences research, provides clinical training through partnerships with healthcare institutions, and offers continuing professional development (CPD) programmes for healthcare professionals. Additionally, it provides healthcare services through its teaching hospital and clinics, allowing students to gain practical experience. These efforts aim to develop skilled healthcare professionals and improve healthcare delivery.
Find out more about them here. |
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| 20 March | BMCC MEET-UP: Networking on Tap |
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A drink, a chat, and valuable connections—what more could you ask for? Join us for an evening of networking at W1 Petaling Street. Whether you're looking to catch up with familiar faces or meet new business contacts, this is the place to be!
Date: 20 March 2025 Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Venue: W1 Petaling Street
Don’t miss out on a fun night with fellow members! |
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| Be A Part of Our 2025 UK-Malaysia Education Guide |
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Calling all members!
Take this opportunity to showcase your organisation in our upcoming BMCC's Guide to UK and Malaysia's Education Excellence guidebook.
This annual e-publication offers a vibrant showcase of the exceptional British and Malaysian education within the BMCC network, serving as a go-to resource for students, parents, expatriates, and investors exploring Malaysia’s dynamic education landscape.
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| BMCC Energy Committee's First Meeting of 2025 |
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The BMCC Energy Committee kicked off their first meeting of the year on 20 February, setting the stage for a dynamic 2025. |
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At the heart of the discussions was the need to prioritise ongoing government engagements between the UK and Malaysia. The committee also explored ways to share best practices, provide thought leadership, and address key topics related to ASEAN.
The BMCC looks forward to supporting the committee by driving these activities and, in doing so, helping our members showcase their solutions and technology, as well as raising their visibility in the region.
For their attendance and contributions, we thank the Committee Chairman Azman Nasir (EIC), Deputy Chair Leon Rosario (Ricardo), Sarazif Ramli (bp), Azril Zainal (ARUP), Peter Davies (EM&I), Khoo Boon Keat (EnviroSolutions), Shamila Neelahandan (HKA Global), and Hisham Jahudi and Hassen Bali (ion Ventures). |
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| BMCC Education Committee’s First Meeting of 2025 |
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The meeting set the committee’s priorities and activities for the year, with a focus on showcasing and promoting British education in Malaysia. Other focus areas included strengthening government advocacy and sustainability.
The meeting also welcomed two senior officials from the Ministry of Education, Dr Zuraidah Ismail (Senior Principal Assistant Secretary, Strategic Planning & International Relations Division) and Ida Hairani Bakar (Principal Assistant Director, Sports, Co-curricular & Arts Division); who were participants of the JPA-BMCC Management Development Programme in 2024. During the meeting, they took the opportunity to share the Ministry’s priorities and opportunities for potential collaboration between the schools and their ministry.
For their attendance and contributions, we thank the Committee Chairman Anthony Partington (XCL), Deputy Chair David Griffiths (Nexus International School), Katy Christie (Alice Smith School), Emma Rooney (Charterhouse Malaysia), Avis Parker (Epsom College), Nicholas Belcher (The International School @ Parkcity), Martin Davis (King Henry VIII College), Simon Burbury (Marlborough College), Min Mahayuddin (British High Commission Kuala Lumpur), Trevor Spence (Sri KDU), Peter Derby-Crook (Garden International School), Glenn Moodie (Kolej Tuanku Ja'afar), Rajasekaran Kanarajah (St. John's International School), Richard Moore (Stonyhurst International School Penang), Jeanne Denyer (Tenby Schools Penang), Alpa Shah (FLIP PIacement), and Saaya Zakaria (MABECS).
Through future collaboration between the Government and private sectors, we look forward to creating improvements in the education sector that betters the lives of students in the UK and Malaysia. |
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| BMCC Built Environment Committee’s First Meeting and Appointment of New Deputy Chair |
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Our Built Environment Committee gathered for the first meeting in 2025 at HL Design to discuss priorities for the year and appoint a new Deputy Chair. |
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These priorities included focus areas for government engagement, future collaborations in areas like adaptive technologies, and an exchange of best practices between leaders of the Built Environment industry.
The committee also appointed Lau Ching Luan (ARUP) as the new Deputy Chair, taking over for Eusoffe Chua (Gamuda), who has since left Gamuda. Ching Luan will be supporting the committee Chair, Martin Haeger MBE (HL Design), in continuing to uphold the Chamber's interests in the Built Environment industry.
Also present for the meeting were Ir. Mohd Fazidin Faisal (ARUP), Richard Baker (PwC), Sr. Dr. Zahiruddin Fitri (Universiti Malaya), Shaun Toh (Knight Frank), Datuk Seri Dr Michael Yam (Impetus Alliance Advisors), Nurnazar Amangeldiyev (NXS Design), Jamie Duncan (Savills), and Bill Addington (TechSol)
We look forward to contributing to the further development of the Built Environment industries in both the UK and Malaysia. |
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| Congratulations to Infobip on their exclusive premier of "Economy 4.0"! |
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Last week, the BMCC was invited to the exclusive premier of "Economy 4.0", a CBS documentary recounting the story of our member, Infobip's, extraordinary journey — from a small startup to becoming the first Croatian company to achieve a billion-dollar valuation without external funding.
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A big thank you to Harsha Solanki (VP GM Asia), Ruslana Reznikova (VP GM APAC & Eurasia), and Sharifah Thaherah (Head of Legal & Regulatory) of Infobip for hosting BMCC’s Yoong Hau Wei (Government Relations & Public Affairs Manager) and Angelyn Ng (Communications and Public Relations Manager) at the premier.
The screening was followed by an insightful panel discussion, 'Navigating the future of communication trends and industry evolution,' featuring Harsha, Ben Lewis (VP Marketing & Growth), and Ivan Ostojic (Chief Business Officer). Congratulations to Infobip on this remarkable milestone! We look forward to witnessing your continued success. |
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| BMCC Meeting with Lancaster University |
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Our meeting explored the centre’s work on sustainability in business, including the sharing of best practices that could help bridge the knowledge gap and address the sustainability challenges faced by Malaysian businesses.
We thank the Lancaster University team for visiting us and exploring these future ventures with us: Professor Simon Guy(Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global); Jan Bebbington (Rubin Professor of Sustainability in Business; Director, Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business); Paul Turner (Content Manager - Research and Engagement); and Ben Peng (Head of Global Academic Reputation).
Representing the BMCC were Yoong Hau Wei (Government Relations & Public Affairs Manager) and Sim Siew Kee (Events Manager).
We look forward to contributing by sharing and developing best practices in sustainability in Malaysian businesses. |
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| UK Government | Expand Your Business in Asia Pacific and South Asia |
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Interested in selling to South Asia and Asia Pacific regions?
Unlock Your Business Potential for Growth in well-known markets such as India, Singapore, Japan, and Australia, as well as burgeoning economies like Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. Ready to tap into one of the world's fastest-growing regions? Join their free expert-led events across the UK.
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| MIDA | Malaysia Records Historic High in Investments and Generates More Than 207,000 Jobs |
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Malaysia recorded a commendable milestone in 2024, recording RM378.5 billion in approved investments—the highest in the nation’s history—reflecting a strong 14.9% year-on-year growth. |
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Spanning 6,700 projects across key sectors, these investments will create more than 207,000 new jobs, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a premier investment destination.
Read the full article here. |
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| ADP | Exclusive Payroll Services for BMCC Members! |
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Find a payroll provider that grows with you!
Supporting businesses from 1 to 10,000+ employees, ADP understands what your business needs today and in the future. |
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Enquire today, and all contracts signed before 1 July 2025 will receive free implementation*!
*Offer is limited to new customers only.
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| Charterhouse Malaysia | Open Day & STEAM Fair on 15 March |
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Step into a world of innovation, creativity, and future-ready learning at Charterhouse Malaysia’s Open Day & STEAM Fair!
Date: 15 March 2025 Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
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Experience education in action as you see firsthand how their students apply: - Design Thinking – Tackling real-world challenges through creativity and problem-solving.
- Spectra Smarts – Their framework empowers students to develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the world
- Independent Learning Project – Empowering students to take ownership of their learning through self-driven exploration.
At Charterhouse's STEAM Fair, witness student-led projects that integrate these key elements—demonstrating critical thinking, innovation, and hands-on learning.
Discover how their mission and Future Ready approach prepare students for success in an ever-evolving world. Explore their purpose-built facilities, engage with their School Leadership Team, and experience the Charterhouse difference!
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| Malaysia Airlines | Earn 2X Enrich Points with MHCorporate SME |
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Unlock double Enrich Points, 10% off and more rewards when booking via MHcorporate SME.
Maximise your business travels with exclusive perks through the MHcorporate SME portal. |
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| Melbourne Capital Group | Get A Deep Dive on the American Moment |
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The US is experiencing strong economic growth, near full employment, and real wage increases—but are rising interest rates a hidden risk? Join Melbourne Capital Group for an insightful discussion with industry leaders on the future of the global economy and markets.
Date: Wednesday, 5 March 2025. Time: 7:00 pm Malaysia time. Location: Souled Out, Sri Hartamas. Limited places available. Reserve your spot now here for an engaging evening of insights and networking. |
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| CMI | Inclusive Leadership: Unlocking Global Talent (Webinar) on 25 March |
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Join Chartered Management Institute (CMI) for an engaging digital event that brings together expert speakers from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka to explore how businesses across the Asia-Pacific region can advance Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.
During the event, they’ll tease out what is working, identify the barriers to faster progress, and help teams get ahead of any pushback from colleagues and customers to embed genuine inclusion across their organisations.
Date: 25 March 2025 Time: 8:00 pm (MYT) Venue: Online
To register for this complimentary webinar, click here. |
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| Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre | Have an Unforgettable Iftar at their Ramadan Buffet! |
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This Ramadan, experience the best of Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre's signature buka puasa feast with 'Tradisi Semarak Rasa', inspired by the most popular dishes from the past 20 years. |
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KLCC brings you a rich and authentic dining experience where cherished classics meet modern favourites. Whether dining with family, friends, or colleagues, this is an Iftar experience not to be missed!
Dates: From 8 to 26 March 2025 Venue: Level 4, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
Early Bird Price: RM 184.50 nett Normal Price: RM 205 nett 50% Discount for patrons aged 55 and above or 5 to 12 FOC: Children 4 and below eat for free
Early Bird benefits are available up to 13 March 2025 only
Grab the Early Bird Promotion Now! Contact +6012 634 3098
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| Pavilion Hotel | Enjoy Early Bird and Exclusive Member Prices for Aroma Citarasa Selatan |
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Immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia’s southern states at The Courtyard this festive season.
Break your fast with a curated spread of traditional favourites, live cooking stations, and freshly caught seafood, including shucked oysters. End your meal on a sweet note with handcrafted desserts, artfully prepared by their master chefs.
1 March onwards: BMCC members enjoy a special rate of MYR142.40nett pp (20% off MR178).
For reservations: |
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| Samadhi Retreats | Corporate Meetings with a Difference |
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Human beings function best when they’re in a relaxed state. Being in a conducive space will create the right atmosphere to inspire creativity and connection.
At Samadhi Retreats’ unique in-nature dining venues, meetings are designed to create a difference. From morning coffee to sunset cocktails, nowhere within the city can match the tranquil setting of Tamarind Springs and THAAN. |
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Samadhi Retreats' ‘Meetings with a Difference’ is catered to planning & designing your events to provide an extraordinary experience that leaves a lasting impact.
Packages: - Half-day meeting from RM 180++ per person, includes 1 morning tea break and 1 lunch
- Full-day meeting from RM 250++ per person, includes 1 morning tea-break, 1 lunch, and 1 afternoon tea-break
Take advantage of Samadhi's special offer for your next meeting or event at any of their Tamarind Restaurants. Enjoy a flat rate of RM 660 nett per room, per night at Villa Samadhi (minimum of 5 rooms), on a Run-of-House basis.
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| Stonyhurst Penang | Open Day on 14 March |
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Join Stonyhurst International School Penang for their Open Day! It's a great opportunity for you and your family to meet the school's academic staff and get a feel for the ethos and atmosphere of their school. |
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Visit them to discover the educational opportunities they offer for children aged 3 to 18 and discover how they nurture their pupils to become “men and women for others”.
Date: 14 March 2025 Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Enjoy 50% off the Application Fee for registration in April 2025.
Open Day Highlights: - Discovery Day for 6-7 year olds (Year 2)*
- Taster programme for 11-12 year olds (Year 7)
- Meet their dedicated Senior Leadership and Academic Team
- Take a guided tour led by their Pupil Council members
*RM3,000 off Enrolment Fee for registration in April 2025 Term
Find out more by visiting their website here! |
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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 2025 |
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