Media OutReach

Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship Supercharges NSS in Global Chip Race

Published

3 months ago

03/09/2025

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 September 2025 – Malaysia’s semiconductor ambitions are moving in step with its role as ASEAN chair, with investment momentum signalling a larger regional shift in the global chip supply chain. In the first half of 2025, the country secured RM190.3 billion (USD45.2 billion) in approved investments, an 18.7 per cent increase over the same period last year.

Singapore was the largest foreign investor with RM43.4 billion (USD10.3 billion), reflecting strong cross-border confidence in Malaysia’s trajectory.

Over 89,000 new jobs to be created through projects spanning manufacturing, services and the primary sector. The electrical and electronics (E&E) industry stood out with RM13.1 billion in new commitments, highlighting Malaysia’s push to evolve beyond its traditional role in assembly and testing. The National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), launched in 2024, has already attracted RM54.2 billion in its first year, marking a strong start towards the government’s RM500 billion target by 2030.

“What investors are responding to is Malaysia’s ability to deliver. In semiconductors, that means proven ecosystems in Penang and Johor, strong links with Singapore, and a pipeline of trained engineers ready to take on higher-value roles. The NSS gives us a clear direction, but credibility comes from how quickly projects move from approval to operation. On that front, Malaysia is building real trust,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Moving Upstream

In March 2025, Malaysia signed an agreement with Arm Holdings Plc to gain access to the UK-based firm’s design library – aiming to produce its own chips within the next decade.

Malaysia currently controls seven per cent of the global semiconductor market, with six out of the 12 largest semiconductor companies globally operating in the country.

This share is expected to increase as semiconductor players worldwide turn to Southeast Asia for a stable microchip supply chain, as the US-China trade war escalates.

A Turning Point for Local SMEs

At home, small-medium enterprises (SMEs) such as CG Global Profastex hail the NSS as “a turning point” in moving beyond traditional manufacturing into higher-value activities like advanced test development, product design enablement, and process automation.

Operating out of Penang for almost a decade now, CG Global serves both front-end and back-end semiconductor-related customers – particularly in equipment, test, and automation subsystems – in Malaysia and selected ASEAN markets.

“Traditionally, EMS SMEs operated in transactional roles—limited to basic assembly or support functions. Today, under the NSS framework, we have been actively encouraged to move up the value chain.

“It pushes us to upgrade our infrastructure, adopt advanced technologies, and build the capabilities needed to support complex, precision-driven industries,” said CG Global managing director Siti Padillah Binti Abdul Wahab.

Siti Padillah said the company plans to apply for NSS-aligned funding to scale up production capacities and adopt digital tools in order to strengthen Malaysia’s position within ASEAN semiconductor landscape.

“With the NSS as our guide, we are investing in the future—so Malaysia can lead not only in volume, but in value,” she added.

If anything, CG Global reflects the confidence boost that hundreds of homegrown enterprises have received from the NSS to pursue larger ambitions and greater appetite for growth.

Going Global as a Region

In 2024, the ASEAN semiconductor market was valued at US$95.91 billion, making up 15 per cent of the global semiconductor market that reached a record high of US$627.6 billion.

The region’s market share is set to soar in the coming months, thanks to the newly-launched Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which combines Singapore’s upstream excellence and Malaysia’s Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) strength.

Johor emerged as Malaysia’s top state for approved investments in the first half of 2025, recording RM56 billion (USD13.3 billion). Among the early movers was Japan’s Ferrotec Group, a leading supplier of materials, components and equipment for the global chip industry. The company commenced operations at its new facility in Johor in April 2025, supporting both regional and international customers.

“The JS-SEZ offers efficient cross-border logistics and connectivity with Singapore, which is critical for our operations,” said Soo Kim Fatt, director of Ferrotec Power Semiconductor Malaysia. “Its proximity to Singapore provides excellent transport accessibility, making it easier for international customers, partners, and overseas colleagues to visit Johor Bahru for meetings, technical support, and collaboration.”

“The JS-SEZ is more than just proximity. It gives investors access to Singapore’s design and R&D right next to Malaysia’s manufacturing and assembly,” said Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim. “Together with the NSS, it strengthens ASEAN’s position as a credible alternative in the global semiconductor supply chain.”

Johor’s role is also expected to strengthen further by significant technological advancements from a partnership between YTL Power International and Nvidia, focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Located at the YTL Green Data Centre in Kulai, this landmark project adds a critical digital infrastructure layer to the state’s technology ecosystem, positioning Malaysia as a leading AI hub in the region.

Tapping the Talent Pool

Beyond infrastructure and investments, Malaysia is also actively positioning itself as a regional talent magnet and a training hub for semiconductor expertise.

As of mid-2025, Malaysia has trained over 13,000 high-skilled semiconductor talents – more than one-fifth of the 60,000 target outlined in the NSS.

The government sees this as part of a regional effort. During the one-year anniversary of the NSS, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia’s training and upskilling initiatives are part of a “broader, regional, ASEAN-wide push”, pointing to deep STEM pipelines in Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia. Under Malaysia’s chairmanship, initiatives such as the ASEAN Framework for Integrated Semiconductor Supply Chains (AFISS) are promoting cross-border training and collaboration.

MIDA is working with investors to align training and academic programmes with industry needs. “Talent is the decisive factor for the next phase of growth. Our priority is to make Malaysia both talent-rich and talent-ready, while attracting the best from around the region,” said Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim.

The Test Ahead

The NSS has given Malaysia a running start, drawing global names, lifting SMEs and tying national ambition to ASEAN’s broader potential. Its early success lies not only in billions invested but in the alignment, it has fostered between government, industry and regional partners.

Hashtag: #MIDA

https://www.mida.gov.my/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

Payment Options Singapore Secures In-Principle Approval from MAS for Major Payment Institution Licence

Published

13 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – Payment Options Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce that it has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence under the Payment Services Act 2019.

Payment Options Pte Ltd office in Singapore

This milestone underscores Payment Options’ commitment to supporting Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simple, secure, and accessible digital payment solutions.

If granted the licence, Payment Options Pte Ltd will be authorised to provide three regulated payment services: Merchant Acquisition, Domestic Money Transfer, and Cross-Border Money Transfer. Through these services, the company aims to empower SMEs with a full suite of payment capabilities — from online payment gateways and QR code payments to the upcoming SoftPOS payments technology — enabling merchants to accept digital payments easily and securely.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Singapore’s SMEs as they grow and compete in an increasingly digital-first economy. Our vision is to position digital payments as a growth enabler — not a challenge — for small businesses”, said Aaron Yip, Director of Payment Options Pte Ltd. “Our goal is to make digital transactions seamless, secure, and accessible for every business, regardless of size.”

Building on this vision, if the licence is granted, Payment Options will continue to work closely with local merchants, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance payment accessibility and drive innovation across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

“We reaffirm our commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, as we contribute to Singapore’s ongoing journey toward a secure, inclusive, and cash-lite economy.”

The IPA granted by the MAS indicates that a licence may be issued upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. The IPA does not constitute a licence to provide payment services at this stage, and MAS reserves the right to rescind the approval if it deems appropriate.
Hashtag: #PaymentOptions

https://www.paymentoptions.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/payment-options/
https://www.facebook.com/PaymentOptions.int/
https://www.instagram.com/payment.options/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Payment Options Pte Ltd

Payment Options Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based financial technology company providing innovative and secure payment solutions designed to help SMEs and merchants simplify digital transactions. With a focus on compliance, technology, and customer experience, the company aims to make digital payments accessible for every business.

Media OutReach

Financial Assistance at SIM: Breaking Barriers to Education

Published

14 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – For many aspiring learners, financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles to achieving their goals. SIM is determined to change that. Guided by the principle that no student should be left behind because of cost, SIM has built a comprehensive ecosystem of financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to make quality education attainable for all.

At the heart of this mission is the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of academic or personal growth. By blending need-based assistance with merit-driven opportunities, SIM is creating an inclusive learning environment where talent and ambition define success.

Empowering Learners Through the SIM Impact Fund

In 2024, SIM introduced the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to supporting students from lower-income households and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations. Administered through SIM Trust, the fund is designed to empower learners within and beyond SIM’s community by removing barriers to access. Beginning in 2025, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with a per-capita income of S$1,750 or below can benefit from tiered assistance, ranging from S$6,000 up to S$13,500 for those with PCI of S$600 or less, S$4,500 to S$6,750 for PCI between S$601 and S$1,000, and S$2,000 for PCI between S$1,001 and S$1,750. Beyond tuition aid, the fund also provides support for overseas internships and merit-based scholarships, benefiting approximately 500 students annually.

Beyond Tuition: Comprehensive Financial Aid

SIM’s commitment to learning accessibility goes far beyond tuition subsidies. Through its Financial Assistance schemes, students can tap into a range of support options tailored to different needs. These include Enhanced Bursaries Aid, which provide up to S$13,500 per year for Singapore Citizens, and a SIM GE Crisis Fund offering emergency relief of up to S$5,000 for unforeseen circumstances. In addition, SIM encourages global exposure through Study Abroad Awards, enabling students to broaden their horizons without financial strain. Together, these initiatives reflect SIM’s ethos of inclusivity and resilience, ensuring that financial challenges never derail academic aspirations.

Community-Focused Support

The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) exemplifies SIM’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment and social impact. Launched in July 2024 in partnership with the late Dr Eu’s family,

RESSEC received a combined S$8 million donation, S$6 million from the Eu family and S$2 million from SIM, marking a significant investment in nurturing social entrepreneurship. Guided by Dr Eu’s vision of transforming social service through ethical leadership and innovation, the Centre equips learners and social service professionals via initiatives such as a specialised postgraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, mentorship, and collaborative dialogues.

RESSEC also provides 12 bursaries of S$10,000 each for SIM Global Education students (check that this is accurate and that it’s not also extended to those outside the SIM ecosystem) who demonstrate strong community service and leadership and those with per-capita income up to S$1,750, prioritising those with per-capita income less than S$1,000. Through this initiative, SIM embeds purpose-driven learning into its mission, empowering students to create sustainable, positive impact in Singapore and beyond

Scholarship for Excellence

SIM offers a diverse range of scholarships under SIM Global Education to recognize excellence and resilience among its students. These include the SIM STARRR Award, which provides up to S$36,000 to outstanding achievers who demonstrate academic distinction and leadership qualities, and the Sports & Arts Talent Award, also valued at S$15,000 for students who excel in athletic or artistic pursuits. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award for Resilience grants S$3,000 to students who successfully balance work and study commitments, showcasing perseverance in the face of challenges. Together, these scholarships complement SIM’s need-based financial aid, creating a holistic support system that rewards merit while ensuring inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Future Without Barriers

SIM’s financial assistance framework is more than a set of policies, it is a promise to the community. By investing in initiatives like the SIM Impact Fund and expanding bursaries and scholarships, SIM is actively dismantling the barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. This approach does not just benefit students, it strengthens society by cultivating a diverse pool of graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and give back. In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, SIM stands out as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment. For students and families seeking assurance that quality education is within reach, SIM offers not just hope but a clear, actionable path forward.

References:

Bursaries & Financial Aid (Enhanced) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/bursaries-and-financial-aids
Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) Opens to Advance Singapore’s Social Sector – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/the-dr-richard-k-m-eu-sim-social-entrepreneurship-centre-%28ressec%29-opens
SIM Scholarship – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships
SIM’s STARRR Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-starrr-award-for-new-undergraduate-students
SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-scholarship
SIM Global Education Diploma Scholarships – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-diploma-scholarships
Chairman’s Award for Resilience – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/chairman-s-award-for-resilience

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Beyond Academic Excellence: SIM Scholarships Champion Leadership, Resilience, and Talent

Published

1 day ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to developing future-ready graduates through a comprehensive scholarship framework that goes beyond academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to recognize and nurture qualities such as leadership, resilience, and talent. These attributes are essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.

For decades, scholarships have been synonymous with academic excellence. SIM is redefining this narrative by adopting a holistic approach that values character, contribution, and courage alongside academic performance. This initiative reflects SIM’s mission to prepare graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.

Scholarships That Go Beyond Academics

SIM’s scholarship ecosystem reflects its belief that success is multidimensional. Rather than focusing solely on grades, these awards celebrate qualities such as resilience, leadership, and talent. The SIM STARRR Award, for instance, supports freshmen who embody Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility, offering up to S$36,000 in tuition fees, along with living and exchange allowances, without any bond requirement.

For students who shine in sports or the arts, the SIM Award & Sports/Artistic Talent Award provides S$15,000, disbursed in two tranches, to help them balance academic and extracurricular excellence.

International students pursuing diploma programmes can benefit from the Diploma Scholarships, which cover up to 100% of course fees for academic excellence or 50% for merit-based achievements.

For working adults who have overcome significant challenges, the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience offers S$3,000, recognizing perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire

SIM’s scholarships are more than financial aid. They are catalysts for transformation, opening doors for students to turn challenges into triumphs. Take Ernita Tanudjaja, an international student who refused to let pandemic disruptions derail her ambitions. Instead, she leveraged technology to livestream events and boost engagement, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.

Similarly, Chow Kah Ying, an ICU nurse, managed the intense demands of frontline healthcare during COVID-19 while completing her degree, showcasing perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Michelle Seah transformed O-level failure into triumph, excelling in javelin and academics to earn the SIM Sports & Artistic Talent Award, proof that determination and discipline can rewrite any story.

These journeys reflect SIM’s unwavering belief that leadership and resilience matter as much as grades, and that true achievement lies in character and contribution as much as in academic performance.

The Broader Vision

SIM’s scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They serve as a strategic platform for transformation and growth. Recipients benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with alumni and industry leaders, fostering mentorship and career development. Many scholarships also provide international exposure through exchange programmes that broaden perspectives and enhance global competencies.

In addition to academic achievement, students cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience and adaptability through experiential learning and community engagement. These qualities equip graduates to excel in uncertain environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

This commitment reflects SIM’s core belief that education is not limited to examinations. It is about shaping leaders who create impact and drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world.

References: