BMCC Newsletter Issue #439 - (9 December 2024) |
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Highlights of the Week: - We reminisce and look back on last week's Christmas Luncheon and our eventful journey through 2024.
- Highlights from the CPTPP Entry-into-Force Countdown with the British High Commission in Malaysia and YTL Corporations GenConnect: Building Better Together Forum.
- Check out our vacancies for the new roles in the BMCC team!
- Sign up for talent cultivation programmes in Johor!
- Enjoy the upcoming festive season with offers from our members, including Grand Hyatt, EQ, Pavilion Hotel, Shangri-La, Samadhi Retreats, and The RuMa!
- Prepare your children for the new year with open days by XCL Penang and Marlborough!
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Looking Back on 2024 Highlights on an Eventful Year with the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce |
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With a flourish and a bow, we ended yet another remarkably eventful year by hosting our festive Annual Corporate Christmas Luncheon. On 6 December, we celebrated the connections we made and strengthened this year. By bringing together members, partners, and guests with this joyous event, we continued to uphold the BMCC's mission as a trusted business partner and reliable facilitator between member organisations. |
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In her opening address, Nik Tasha Nik Kamaruddin, BMCC Deputy Chair, warmly welcomed attendees and reflected on the Chamber's achievements in 2024. The luncheon was graced by David Wallace, Acting British High Commissioner to Malaysia, who gave a heartwarming toast; and we are extremely thankful for his steadfast support of the Chamber and in strengthening UK-Malaysia trade and investment |
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Our CEO, Jennifer Lopez, joined by David Wallace and the Chamber's Board of Directors, raised a toast that celebrated all the achievements that had been made thus far.
We also took the opportunity to honour Jennifer Lopez for her recognition as one of the 50 Leading Lights in the Kindness & Leadership Asia Pacific campaign.
As we close out the year, the Chamber would like to express thanks to all our members who joined us in celebrating this festive gathering. For their support, we extend our appreciation to our corporate sponsor, Bluestar AMG; preferred airline partner, Malaysia Airlines; venue sponsor, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur; and our Lucky Draw Sponsors: W1 Dining and Cocktails, Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Sports Direct. |
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As we reflect on 2024, the BMCC celebrated numerous milestones. This year, the Chamber inaugurated its new office at Menara IQ in the financial hub of TRX, symbolising our growth and ambition. The BMCC also proudly welcomed Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah as Patron, whose visionary leadership reinforces our efforts to advance UK-Malaysia trade, particularly in education, healthcare, and philanthropy. |
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The Chamber continued to foster meaningful connections and impactful collaborations, hosting a record-breaking 53 events. Among these were the prestigious BMCC Business Excellence Awards Gala Dinner, graced by YB Gobind Singh Deo, Malaysia’s Minister of Digital; the second edition of BMCC ESG Horizons, which featured a month-long series of expert discussions on sustainability and innovation; and the inaugural Great British Brunch. |
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The Chamber hosted 98 productive engagements with key Government stakeholders, which made for another cornerstone of 2024’s successes.
We successfully ran our third consecutive JPA-BMCC Management Development Programme with up to eleven participating host organisations for fifteen senior government officers. |
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We also became the only international Chamber to host the National Post-Budget Forum with the Malaysian Secretary General of Treasury, Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican.
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The Chamber, alongside key healthcare sector members and our Healthcare Committee, also recently paid a courtesy call to the Ministry of Health Malaysia and met with YB Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad. |
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We also had a Roundtable Session with the Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, during which the Chamber also signed an MOU with MDEC. This marked a significant partnership to advance digital tech collaborations and participated in London Tech Week alongside the Ministry of Digital Malaysia and the UK Department for Business and Trade. In partnership with Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education, the BMCC launched the MOHE-BMCC Recruitment Drive, connecting members with thousands of aspiring graduates and further bridging academia and industry. |
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Over the year, the Chamber held visits with government officials and ministers, including Martin Kent, HM's Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific; YB Lee Ting Han, Johor State EXCO Member for Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs & Human Resources.
These highlights are but a few of what has been an extraordinary year for the Chamber. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our members, sponsors, and partners for their unwavering support in making 2024 a great year for the BMCC. |
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As the BMCC looks to 2025, we anticipate new opportunities with Malaysia chairing ASEAN, creating platforms for robust regional discussions on trade and economic collaboration. Additionally, the CPTPP, Malaysia’s first Free Trade Agreement with the UK, coming into force on 15 December, promises to open doors for deeper bilateral cooperation. |
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The BMCC eagerly anticipates another year of shared success, collaboration, and growth in 2025 with our members and partners. We look forward to growing with you all and continue having you all as part of our vibrant network! |
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Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from The Executive Team at the BMCC! See you in 2025! |
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As Christmas rears its jolly head around the corner, create memories with our special offers by our members, which you can find in the updates below! |
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| Counting Down to CPTPP with the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur |
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On 15 December 2024, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) will officially come into force for the UK, marking a historic milestone as the first free trade agreement between the UK and Malaysia. |
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To commemorate this occasion, Mr. David Wallace, Acting British High Commissioner to Malaysia, and YB Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, launched a countdown event in Kuala Lumpur last week.
The CPTPP is a multilateral trade agreement among 12 countries across five continents. With the UK’s inclusion, the combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of member nations rises from £9 trillion to £12 trillion, representing 15% of global GDP.
What This Means for the UK and Malaysia This agreement will eliminate 94% of tariffs on goods traded between the UK and Malaysia, paving the way for greater market access in key sectors: - Malaysia’s Export Gains: Automotive, semiconductor and integrated circuits, aerospace, palm oil, rubber, and vacuum cleaners
- UK’s Export Gains: Automotive, financial services, and education.
The CPTPP fosters a rules-based trading environment, promoting transparency and predictability amid evolving global geopolitical dynamics. This partnership is expected to strengthen trade ties, drive economic growth, and benefit exporters in both nations.
As the countdown to 15 December begins, the CPTPP will signal a new era of trade collaboration between the UK and Malaysia. |
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| GenConnect by YTL | A Forum on Building Better Together |
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YTL Construction, in collaboration with the BMCC, hosted the GenConnect: Building Better Together forum at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur. This milestone event celebrated intergenerational collaboration as YTL approaches its 70th anniversary. |
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Mr. Yeoh Keong Yuan, Executive Director of YTL Construction, highlighted how the energy of Millennials and Gen Z, who make up 70% of the company’s workforce, complements the wisdom of older generations. This fosters resilience and growth, allowing YTL to utilise multiple perspectives in their work.
Key Highlights The forum featured engaging discussions on bridging generational gaps and fostering inclusivity: - Generational Perspectives: Understanding the Difference: Featuring Dato’ Sri Azmi Abdul Aziz (YTL Construction), Lee Soo Fern (EY), Endry Lim (PayNet), and Komalah Selva (Patience Modular), this panel explored how generational diversity enhances workplace inclusivity and drives innovation.
- Innovation and Tradition: Balancing Old and New Practices: Moderated by the Chair of BMCC's DEI Network, Natasha Zulkifli, this session featured BMCC Board members Nic Chambers (Michael Page Malaysia) and Yeoh Pei Tsen (YTL Construction), as well as Ts. Fatin Fatihah Zahari (Microsoft) as they discussed the synergy between modern innovation and time-tested traditions.
- Creating a Collaborative Culture: Strategies and Best Practices: A TedTalk by Andrew Hunt (Hilti) offered actionable strategies for fostering teamwork, effective communication, and inclusivity across generations.
Dato’ Kathleen Chew, YTL Group Legal Counsel, reaffirmed YTL’s commitment to fostering respect and collaboration across generations.
It was inspiring to have so many dedicated speakers and participative attendees, who ultimately made this forum a success. We hope we can continue to move forward and build better together! |
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| Networking with Members at the Penang Mix & Mingle |
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What a lovely and intimate evening of connections and conversations at our BMCC Penang Mix & Mingle. Business professionals from across the region came together to build relationships, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities. |
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We also thank everyone who joined us and made this event a success. Here’s to forging meaningful partnerships and growing together! |
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| Meeting with British Theatre Playhouse |
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We recently had a meeting with Cecilia Leong-Faulkner, Founder and Managing Director of British Theatre Playhouse and Dato' Seri Azim Zabidi, a member of the board of trustees and chairman of the fundraising committee. We discussed how the Chamber could support their upcoming production of Beatlemania, details of which you can find below. |
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| British Theatre Playhouse presents Beatlemania - A Musical Journey |
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Beatlemania - A Musical Journey is created by the British Theatre Playhouse to celebrate the 65th Anniversary of The Beatles, and will be performed by UK's No. 1 tribute band, The Cavern Beatles, hailed as being the closest experience to the Fab Four. |
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You have the power to make a significant impact. By taking up a sponsorship package to attend and participate in the exclusive BEATLEMANIA! ART FOR CHARITY gala event on 25 February 2025, you'll be supporting life-changing education programmes for underprivileged children and contributing to their future and growth through the JWYE Foundation.
If you are interested in sponsoring, contact us at Comms@bmcc.org.my and we will connect you with |
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We're hiring! If you have the relevant skills for the following roles, apply now at info@bmcc.org.my. |
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| Vacancy for Membership Manager |
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Are you a person who is passionate about driving membership acquisition and retention through strategic planning, targeted outreach, and active engagement with potential and existing members?
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| Vacancy for Multimedia & Website Marketing Executive |
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Join our dynamic team to design creative marketing collaterals, manage digital platforms, and enhance our brand image! Responsibilities include designing for social media, events, and publications, updating the website, and supporting multimedia needs for events.
- 2+ years experience in multimedia content creation
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Experience with CMS (e.g. WordPress) & basic HTML
- Strong design and content creation skills
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| Malaysia Productivity Corporation | Talent Cultivation in Johor Programme |
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Join Bina Bakat Berhad, in collaboration with the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), as they present a two-day initiative to prepare Johor’s workforce for the future.
Venue: Amari Hotel, Johor Bahru |
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Day 1: Empowering Talent Development
Date: 11 December 2024 Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Join distinguished speakers and industry leaders in engaging panel discussions, exploring innovative approaches to talent cultivation. |
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Day 2: Industry Matching Session
Date: 12 December 2024 Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Participate in interactive talent-matching activities and network with business leaders to foster meaningful collaborations. |
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Participation is free and limited to 2 participants per company. Secure your spot today! |
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| Malaysian Ministry of Human Resources Launches 2024 Edition of the Flexible Work Arrangements Guidebook |
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The Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) Guidelines launched recently is one of the continuous efforts by the Government and the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) to empower employees and assist employers in optimising their human resources and operational costs.
In addition to the development of such guidelines, KESUMA, through the strategic collaboration of the Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) and Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), will continue to provide guidance and support on FWA implementation tailored to the needs of time, place, and target groups.
Read the full article here.
Access the publication in Bahasa Malaysia here. |
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| Treat Yourself To An Amazing Holiday with Malaysia Airlines |
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Enjoy up to MYR500 off on Flight and Hotel packages with MHholidays as a BMCC member.
Book now until 31 March 2025.
T&Cs apply. |
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| Discover XCL International School: The Only International School in Mainland Penang – All in One Morning! |
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Join XCL Penang for a comprehensive open morning!
Date: 11 December 2024 Time: 8:00 am to 10:00 am Location: Parent Lounge, XCL International School |
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Open Morning Highlights: - Chat with XCL's Campus Principal and Academic Leaders.
- Experience a Guided Tour of their State-of-the-Art Campus.
- Get the Answers You Need from their Friendly Admissions Team.
- Exclusive Rebate for Your Child's Enrolment!
- Enjoy Light Refreshments and Coffee as You Explore.
Limited Spaces Available!
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| Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur | Glitz and Grand: A Glittery Holiday Dream Festive Celebration |
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This holiday season, immerse yourself in Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur’s Glitz and Grand: A Glittery Holiday Dream. From indulgent festive feasts at THIRTY8, JPteres, and Poolhouse to exclusive holiday treasures at the Grand Gift Shop, experience unforgettable celebrations with breathtaking views, exceptional cuisine, and magical moments to cherish. Click HERE for the full Festive eBrochure.
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| The Grand Countdown at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur |
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Celebrate 2025 with an iconic New Year’s Eve experience across Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, offering a lively, exhilarating atmosphere to the evening with an exclusive event that promises an unforgettable farewell to 2024 as guests toast to new beginnings and joyous celebrations.
Click HERE for the full New Year’s Eve menu. |
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| The Grand Start: Kuala Lumpur's Longest Breakfast |
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Mark the arrival of 2025 with The Grand Countdown at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, a lively New Year’s Eve event offering an exhilarating farewell to 2024 with unforgettable moments and joyous celebrations. Start 2025 with The Grand Start, featuring Kuala Lumpur’s longest breakfast from 6:30 am to 2:30 pm, showcasing indulgent delights like lobster congee, black truffle eggs Benedict, and more. Click HERE for more information. |
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| Marlborough College Malaysia | Forthcoming Events in 2025 |
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Discover a world-class education with Marlborough College Malaysia's upcoming events. Sign your children up now and secure their future! |
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Singapore Information Evening Date: 14 January 2025 Time: 5:30 pm Venue: The British Club, Singapore
Admission Open Morning Date: 18 January 2025 Time: 8:30 am Venue: Marlborough College Malaysia |
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| Michael Page | Talent Trends Survey 2025 |
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Share your insights in Michael Page's Talent Trends Survey 2025. Talent Trends 2024 was the largest global talent survey of its kind and helped shape how organisations engage with and retain top talent! Heading into 2025, Michael Page aims to make an even bigger impact on the world of work! Thousands of companies worldwide download Michael Page's Talent Trends survey, and this is your chance to make your voice heard in the conversation. |
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| AmanahRaya-Kenedix REIT Manager | Largest Harimau Malaya Canvas to Support Tiger Conservation |
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AmanahRaya-Kenedix REIT Manager, Amanah Raya Berhad, and the tenants of Vista Tower, in partnership with the Persatuan Pelindung Harimau Malaysia (RIMAU), collaborated on an inspiring mural project to raise awareness for the conservation of the Harimau Malaya.
Read the full article here! |
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| EQ Kuala Lumpur | The best of Christmas and New Year’s Eve |
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Make the holidays happen under one dazzling roof!
EQ has gone all out this Christmas season, with festive buffets, delicious takeaways, bespoke fine-dining menus, and private event-planning options to satisfy the most discerning of hosts.
Book a Christmas meal at EQ's wonderfully festive outlets, pop by for a luxe afternoon tea and pick up charming edible gifts, or arrange for special takeaways to celebrate at home.
All your options can be found in this year’s Holiday Spirit gift catalogue. |
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CLICK HERE to Download your copy of EQ Holiday Spirit! |
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| Informed Solutions Announces Strategic Partnership with National Police Coordination Centre |
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Informed Solutions is thrilled to announce their strategic partnership with the National Police Coordination Centre (NPoCC) to support their journey in digitally transforming national-scale, cross-force resource planning and coordination! |
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The partnership will see Informed Solutions drive the next phase of data-driven transformation of the UK’s Mercury platform, a crucial cloud-based capability that supports NPoCC in managing police resources across 43 UK Home Office forces, Police Scotland, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Ministry of Defence Police, Civil Nuclear Constabulary and other agencies. Mercury enables the coordination of cross-force mutual aid, national emergency responses, and large-scale public events, ensuring effective policing and public safety.
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| KPJ Healthcare | Enjoy Exclusive Year-End Offers! |
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Seize KPJ Healthcare's exclusive year-end offers, from rejuvenating facials to cutting-edge health screenings and anti-ageing solutions. Available for a limited time only.
Don’t miss this chance to revitalise your body, mind, and soul before the year ends and start the next year feeling fresh!
For more details on their promotions, please visit their website here!
For more information and to secure these offers today, contact KPJ's Medical Concierge team: |
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| Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur | Grand Feasts and Joyful Gatherings |
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As 2024 gracefully comes to a close, we stand on the threshold of the year-end festive season, ushering in 2025 with good health, laughter, and blessings.
Join Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur by Banyan Tree for celebrations filled with grand feasts, festive libations, and joyful gatherings, where every moment is steeped in the spirit of the holiday.
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| Samadhi Retreats | Celebrate Samadhi's 25th Anniversary with Unique Discounts and Exclusive Dinners! |
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Celebrate 25 years of Samadhi Retreats at the Samadhi 25 Jungle Luxe Party on December 14, 2024, at Tamarind Springs. Enjoy diverse cuisines from seven restaurants, curated cocktails, wine tasting, and performances by Tamarind Apsara dancers.
Tickets are sold at RM188nett/person. Groups of above 10, enjoy 10% discount! |
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| Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur Shares Festive Offers |
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Celebrate the festive season with Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur. Indulge in specially-curated fine at their specialty restaurants and create memories with delightful workshops!
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| The RuMa Hotel and Residences | Tis the Season for Special Christmas Offers! |
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As the holiday season approaches, The RuMa Hotel and Residences is delighted to share their line-up of Festive Offers for 2024, featuring an array of experiences across Rooms, F&B, and Spa. |
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Special Highlights to Spark Your Celebrations
The RuMa is also thrilled to announce their partnership with escentials, your one-stop destination for exquisite beauty and fragrances, this festive season. Guests who purchase any of the festive offers will stand a chance to win an escentials gift set worth over RM1,200—a perfect way to elevate your celebrations. |
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| University of Reading | Professor May Tan-Mullins Appointed New Provost and CEO |
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Professor May Tan-Mullins has been appointed as the new Provost and CEO of the University of Reading Malaysia, Reading’s campus in EduCity, in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. She will also take up the new position of University of Reading Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (ASEAN).
Read the full article here. |
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| Mint Communications | Save the Dates for Upcoming PISFs! |
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Exciting news for 2025!
Mark your calendars for the upcoming Private & International School Fairs happening next year. Join them in KL, Johor and Penang to explore the best private & international school options for your children!
For more information, please visit their website at pisf.asia or call 60 12-518 4911. |
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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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