In today’s episode, we unpack a fast-moving mix of local tech momentum, major policy shifts, and Malaysia’s delicate positioning in the global trade chessboard. From ACE Market euphoria to US-China trade diplomacy, it’s all about navigating opportunity — and risk.

Corporate Highlights

🚀 Insights Analytics Smashes ACE Market Debut

* Shares soared +81% on first day

* Raised RM43.6M for West Malaysia expansion

* Big bet on digital twin tech in smart cities, ports, and utilities

🔧 IJM Corp Lands RM1.26B Data Center Deal

* Hyperscale project at Elmina Business Park

* More MEP work (RM1B+) potentially on the table

🏗️ Broad Contract Momentum

* MGB wins affordable housing job (order book: RM1.25B)

* AWC secures RM82M FM contract in Putrajaya

* LBS Bina & Oriental team up on RM600M JV in Melaka

* Perak Transit moves ahead with terminal projects despite stock slump

🏢 KNM Drops Delisting Appeal

* Eyes survival, not status

* Sale of German unit (RM270M) critical to shed RM1.3B debt

💼 Mulpha Sells London Marriott Stake

* RM190M divestment to fund new local investments

Policy & Regulation Watch

🌏 Rare Earth Export Ban Clarified

* Applies universally — no raw exports to US, China, Japan, or Korea

* BUT: Malaysia–US deal exempts processed minerals

📦 US Chip Tariff Pressure Eases (for now)

* PM Anwar: tariffs “not an issue”

* Trump to revisit “at appropriate time”

* Malaysia’s new trade commitments may influence future decisions

🚚 Zero Tolerance for Overloaded Lorries

* Transport Minister Loke doubling down on enforcement

🏘️ Crackdown on Abandoned Housing Projects

* Govt mulls travel bans on directors of blacklisted developers

* 107 abandoned projects as of Sept

💳 Premium Healthcare Expansion

* Rakan KKM “premium economy” services still planned for Cyberjaya

Global Trade, Energy & Tech

🤝 US–China Trade Talks Continue in KL

* Malaysia hosts top-level talks through Oct 27

* Hopes rise after Trump’s Japan visit

⚡ IEA Outlook: Oil & LNG Prices to Ease

* LNG becoming buyer’s market

🧬 AMD Lands $1B US Supercomputer Contract

* “Lux” & “Discovery” to support AI, nuclear, and medical research

🚗 XPeng Eyes Malaysia as EV-AI Hub

* Looking to tap local semiconductor talent

Legal & Compliance Updates

👤 IRB Sues Muhyiddin’s Son-in-Law

* RM2.5M in alleged tax arrears and penalties

📄 Farhash vs Rafizi

* Defamation suit filed, seeking RM10M

🎧 Listen Now for a deep dive into Malaysia’s financial gems and global trends shaping 2025!

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