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Akeso’s Ivonescimab Secures Fourth Breakthrough Therapy Designation in China for First-Line Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

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Advertorial Desk
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HONG KONG, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso (9926.HK) announced that its first-in-class bispecific antibody, ivonescimab (PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody), in combination with chemotherapy for first-line treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) by the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA).

The Phase III multicenter, randomized, double-blind clinical trial (HARMONi-BC1/AK112-308) for this combination therapy is ongoing in China. The BTD designation is expected to further expedite the clinical development and regulatory approval process of ivonescimab for the treatment of TNBC. This marks the fourth BTD granted by the CDE for ivonescimab. The previous three designations include:

  • Ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC resistant to EGFR-TKI therapy, which has now been approved for marketing in China and added to China’s National Reimbursement Drug List.
  • First-line treatment of PD-L1-positive locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC, which has also been approved for marketing in China.
  • Ivonescimab combined with docetaxel for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC patients who have failed previous PD-1/L1 inhibitors and platinum-based chemotherapy. The Phase III clinical trial for this indication in China is currently ongoing.

Receiving four Breakthrough Therapy Designations affirms ivonescimab’s substantial clinical benefit across multiple major cancer types and reinforces Akeso’s commitment to addressing critical unmet medical needs. The therapy is currently advancing in 14 Phase III clinical trials worldwide, including four international multicenter studies. These large pivotal studies, backed by repeated regulatory recognition, position ivonescimab to deliver transformative, life-saving outcomes for patients worldwide.

Forward-Looking Statement of Akeso, Inc.
This announcement by Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK, “Akeso”) contains “forward-looking statements”. These statements reflect the current beliefs and expectations of Akeso’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These statements are not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any decision to purchase securities of Akeso. There can be no assurance that the drug candidate(s) indicated in this announcement or Akeso’s other pipeline candidates will obtain the required regulatory approvals or achieve commercial success. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in P.R.China, the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; Akeso’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the Akeso’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

Akeso does not undertake any obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

About 依达方® (PD-1/VEGF Bispecific, Ivonescimab)

Ivonescimab is a first-in-class, PD-1/VEGF bispecific immuno-oncology agent developed by Akeso. In May 2024, it received approval from the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (nsq-NSCLC) after EGFR-TKI therapy. This approval made ivonescimab the world’s first bispecific antibody based on a synergistic “immunotherapy plus anti-angiogenesis” mechanism. In November 2024, ivonescimab was also included in China’s National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL).

Additionally, ivonescimab has been approved as a first-line treatment for advanced NSCLC with positive PD-L1 expression. In the Phase III HARMONi-2 study, ivonescimab demonstrated superior efficacy compared to pembrolizumab, resulting in significantly improved clinical outcomes.

In 2025, the final overall survival (OS) analysis from the HARMONi-A study showed that ivonescimab met the OS endpoint, providing clinically meaningful and statistically significant OS benefits. As the first final OS analysis in a Phase III trial of ivonescimab, these results reaffirm the agent’s groundbreaking value in both progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival for patients. Moreover, a head-to-head Phase III trial comparing ivonescimab plus chemotherapy to tislelizumab plus chemotherapy in first-line treatment for squamous NSCLC also yielded promising results. These findings position ivonescimab as a substantial clinical breakthrough whether in comparison to PD-1 monotherapy in immuno-oncology, the current standard of care (SOC) of PD-1 inhibitors combined with chemotherapy, or VEGF-targeted therapies in the anti-angiogenesis field. This underscores ivonescimab’s significant potential in cancer treatment.

As ivonescimab continues to demonstrate substantial clinical value and the potential to redefine treatment standards, its presence in key immuno-oncology indications is expanding rapidly. In lung cancer, the most prevalent cancer globally, ivonescimab is currently involved in 8 registrational/Phase III clinical studies, including:

  • First-line NSCLC (squamous and non-squamous, compared to pembrolizumab + chemotherapy, international multicenter)
  • First-line squamous NSCLC (compared to tislelizumab + chemotherapy)
  • NSCLC after EGFR-TKI progression (HARMONi-A and HARMONi)
  • First-line PD-L1-positive NSCLC (compared to pembrolizumab)
  • First-line PD-L1-highly expressed NSCLC (compared to pembrolizumab)
  • IO-resistant NSCLC
  • Consolidation therapy for limited-stage small cell lung cancer post-concurrent chemoradiotherapy

In other major tumor types, ivonescimab is rapidly advancing first-line indications with ongoing Phase III trials in:

  • First-line biliary tract cancer (compared to durvalumab + chemotherapy)
  • First-line PD-L1–positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in combination with ligufalimab (CD47) (compared to pembrolizumab)

In the challenging area of cold tumors, ivonescimab has received its fourth Breakthrough Therapy Designation for first-line triple-negative breast cancer. Additionally, Phase III studies are underway for first-line MSS/pMMR colorectal cancer (which accounts for 95% of CRC cases) and first-line pancreatic cancer. Further Phase III studies are also being prepared.

With nearly 20 Phase II studies across more than 10 additional indications, ivonescimab has established a robust data foundation to support the rapid global expansion of Phase III trials.

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 24 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 15 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs. Additionally, 7 new drugs are commercially available. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin.

Vinhomes Green Paradise applies to be a participant in the world’s ‘7 Wonders of Future Cities’ global campaign

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Advertorial Desk
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CAN GIO, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 – The Can Gio Urban Area Project – Vinhomes Green Paradise – has officially applied to become a Participant in the global “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign, launched by the world-renowned New7Wonders organization. By firmly embracing this global initiative, Vinhomes reaffirms its forward-looking vision, positioning Vinhomes Green Paradise not merely as a real estate development but as a world-class symbol that embodies the future of human urban living.

Vinhomes Green Paradise features a world-class collection of premium amenities, setting new living standards for a future-ready urban township.
Vinhomes Green Paradise features a world-class collection of premium amenities, setting new living standards for a future-ready urban township.

Vinhomes announced its intended participation in the “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign immediately after the initiative officially launched on October 31, 2025. The global campaign invites citizens worldwide to identify seven cities that best represent innovation, sustainability, and human progress – urban icons that define what it means to be a “City of the Future”.

For the next year, proposals and applications from participant cities and developments will be accepted, followed by the start of the voting phase on 31 October 2026, which will run until the official declaration of the 7 Wonders of Future Cities on 31 October 2027.

The “7 Wonders of Future Cities” initiative is more than just a worldwide conversation to recognize new “wonders”. It is a celebration of 21st-century civilization, honoring cities that lead in sustainable urban planning, human-centric technology, and creative innovation.

By all these criteria, Vinhomes Green Paradise – the Can Gio coastal reclamation and eco-urban development – stands as an ideal candidate, representing one of the world’s most advanced ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) urban models.

A standout highlight is the 7-hectare Blue Waves Theatre, located at the heart of the development, which is poised to become a premier destination for a wide array of performing arts.
A standout highlight is the 7-hectare Blue Waves Theatre, located at the heart of the development, which is poised to become a premier destination for a wide array of performing arts.

Located in the coastal ecological zone of Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, adjacent to the UNESCO-recognized Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, Vinhomes Green Paradise is a modern urban development covering 2,870 hectares, surrounded by a 121-kilometer coastline, including 53 kilometers of public beachfront. Upon completion, it will become Vietnam’s largest coastal megacity, envisioned as a leading regional “eco-tech marine city”, developed under the ESG++ model that integrates smart operation technologies, renewable energy, and a master plan harmoniously connecting forest and sea.

As a pioneer in Vietnam, Vinhomes Green Paradise aims to achieve the BREEAM Communities certification, one of the world’s most rigorous and prestigious standards for sustainable urban planning and development, alongside ISO 37122, the national standard for smart city development.

The project’s operational technologies are designed to strictly adhere to principles of environmental friendliness, natural harmony, energy and water optimization, carbon footprint monitoring, and full renewable energy utilization. To this end, the project includes the development of an offshore wind power system, located 20 kilometers from the coastline, harnessing natural wind resources through state-of-the-art technology to provide a consistent supply of green energy for the entire ecosystem.

Vinhomes Green Paradise is also investing in the development of green mobility infrastructure, with the goal of ensuring that 100% of vehicles operating within the township achieve net-zero emissions.

With its unique position “forest-backed, sea-facing,” the development maintains an average temperature approximately 2°C cooler than central Ho Chi Minh City, positioning itself as a future icon of green and sustainable urban living in southern Vietnam. Committed to contributing to the city’s sustainable growth, Vinhomes Green Paradise strictly complies with all environmental protection standards, with a focus on preserving and regenerating local biodiversity throughout the construction and development process.

Vinhomes Green Paradise also includes two world-class 18-hole golf courses, inspired by the beauty of Dawn and Dusk, offering diverse terrains and an exceptional golfing experience.
Vinhomes Green Paradise also includes two world-class 18-hole golf courses, inspired by the beauty of Dawn and Dusk, offering diverse terrains and an exceptional golfing experience.

Beyond transforming the southern coastal landscape of Vietnam, Vinhomes Green Paradise represents a new benchmark for the cities of the future. The project’s world-class amenities include an 800-hectare saltwater lagoon, the Blue Waves Theatre, an 18-hole golf course, a network of amusement parks, and the Landmark Harbour marina complex, expected to attract up to 40 million visitors annually.

Ms. Nguyen Thu Hang, CEO of Vinhomes, shared: “We highly appreciate the New7Wonders initiative for honoring humanity’s relentless efforts to shape the cities of tomorrow. The values that New7Wonders celebrates perfectly align with the vision and development philosophy of Vinhomes, a vision driven by the aspiration to build timeless urban wonders, where people, technology, and nature coexist in sustainable harmony. With an urban model designed to meet the world’s most advanced ESG benchmarks, Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio stands as a living testament to that vision – a symbol of a new era that defines the standards of future living and preserves enduring values for generations to come“.

Since its founding 25 years ago, New7Wonders, the global organization behind the “New 7 Wonders of the World” and “New 7 Wonders of Nature” campaigns, has become a global cultural phenomenon, engaging hundreds of millions of people worldwide to redefine what constitutes a “wonder” in the modern age. In 2007, the organization announced the chosen “New 7 Wonders of the World”, including the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum (Italy), and the Taj Mahal (India). In 2011, Ha Long Bay of Vietnam was proudly voted one of the “New 7 Wonders of Nature”, alongside the Amazon, Iguazu Falls, and Jeju Island amongst others.

Building on that legacy, the “7 Wonders Cities of the Future” campaign invites global citizens to redefine the concept of an urban wonder and establish new standards for quality of life in the 21st century. The application by Vinhomes Green Paradise to become a Participant underscore not only the growing prominence of Vietnam’s real estate sector but also the vision and capacity of Vinhomes, a pioneering brand shaping transformative, regionally influential developments.

With over 30 modern urban developments transforming cityscapes across Vietnam, Vinhomes continues to lead the way in creating world-class mega-urban projects. Each development is not merely a place to live, but a symbol of a progressive, green, and prosperous lifestyle.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

Eight Parking Zones Planned in Vientiane Ahead of BRT Launch

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) launch.

To prepare for the upcoming operation of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the Vientiane Sustainable Urban Transport Project plans to establish eight parking zones across the downtown areas of Chanthabouly and Sisattanak districts to accommodate motorists.

According to Khamphanh Vanthana, Head of the project, the parking zones will be located across Chanthabouly and Sisattanak districts, particularly around Chao Fa Ngum, Inpeng Temple, and Ongtue Temple. 

Khamphanh Vanthana, Head of the Vientiane’s Bus Rabid Transit (BRT) project. (Photo credit: Phatalk)

Parking fees will be set at LAK 80 per minute for cars and LAK 40  per minute for motorbikes, Khamphanh said.

Once the BRT system becomes operational, vehicle parking will be strictly prohibited on both sides of Setthathirath Road, from the Inpeng Temple intersection to the Hor Kham (Presidential Palace) T-intersection, aims to ensure smoother public transport operations and reduce road congestion in central Vientiane.

Residents living along the route without private parking spaces may also be eligible for monthly parking subscriptions. For instance, parking will be available at Chao Fa Ngum Park and the Vientiane Capital Education and Sports Department compound near the Chao Fa Ngum Station.

Khamphan added that the project will conduct a three-month trial phase before full operation, during which the BRT service will be free for public use. Similarly, the public can enjoy free rides during the That Luang Festival 2025, from 1 to 5 November, as part of the pilot testing of the system.

MALAYSIA HEALTHCARE TRAVEL COUNCIL STRENGHTENS REGIONAL PRESENCE IN MEDAN THROUGH ASTINDO TRAVEL FAIR 2025

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Advertorial Desk
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MEDAN, Indonesia, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) continues to advance its regional outreach by participating in the ASTINDO Travel Fair (ATF) 2025, held in Medan, Indonesia. The event serves as one of the largest tourism exhibitions in the country, gathering travel agents, airlines, hotels, medical institutions, and tourism partners under one roof to showcase their offerings and foster cross-border collaboration.

As part of the Malaysia Healthcare Pavilion, MHTC leads a delegation of nine (9) world-renowned Malaysian hospitals, further reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a trusted global destination for quality medical care and wellness. Participating hospitals include two finalists of MHTC’s Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital (FMTH) programme, namely Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) and Mahkota Medical Centre, as well as Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur (CVSKL), Gleneagles Hospital Penang, LohGuanLye Specialists Centre, Northern Heart Hospital Penang, Penang Adventist Hospital, Sunway Medical Centre, and Sunway Medical Centre Penang.

“MHTC’s participation at ASTINDO Travel Fair 2025 reaffirms Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening healthcare partnerships in Indonesia, particularly across Sumatra, which remains one of our key markets for health travellers. Through initiatives like the Malaysia Healthcare Pavilion, we aim to showcase Malaysia’s excellence in medical expertise, advanced technology, and warm hospitality that have made Malaysia a preferred choice for healthcare travellers from Indonesia,” says Suriaghandi Suppiah, Chief Executive Officer of MHTC.

The participation also aligns with the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026 campaign, themed “Healing Meets Hospitality.” This campaign highlights Malaysia’s world-class healthcare ecosystem that combines internationally accredited medical services with the nation’s distinctive culture of care and hospitality.

MHTC’s involvement also complements Tourism Malaysia’s participation at ASTINDO Travel Fair 2025, which promotes the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign under the theme “Malaysia a Sustainable Destination & Rich in Culture.” Together, both organisations highlight Malaysia’s appeal not only as a leisure destination but also as a comprehensive hub for healthcare, wellness, education, and lifestyle tourism.

Tourism Malaysia Medan, led by Consul Rosalina Abdul Rahim, also collaborates with travel partners to introduce new and unique holiday packages to destinations such as Ipoh, Cameron Highlands, and Melaka, as well as Umrah Stop-Over Kuala Lumpur and Halal Tourism Packages in partnership with Almeerah Plaza Tour.

Malaysia has long been recognised as one of the top destinations for medical tourism in Asia, attracting patients from neighbouring countries seeking specialised care in cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, fertility, and wellness treatments.

The ASTINDO Travel Fair 2025 serves as a vital platform for fostering collaboration between Malaysia and Indonesia across tourism and healthcare sectors. The participation of MHTC and its hospital partners exemplifies the synergy between medical excellence and hospitality that defines Malaysia’s healthcare travel experience.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Mohamad Shahizam Fauzi
Head, Communications
+603 8776 6168
shahizam.f@mhtc.org.my

Siti Hamidah Mohd Najib
Senior Executive, Communications
+603 8776 6168
hamidah.m@mhtc.org.my

About Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council

Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), established in 2009 under the purview of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia, is entrusted with developing and nurturing the “Malaysia Healthcare” brand. MHTC enhances, coordinates, and promotes Malaysia’s healthcare travel industry by fostering industry collaborations and building valuable public-private partnerships both domestically and internationally. With 80 member hospitals nationwide, MHTC continues to elevate the healthcare travel ecosystem through strong branding, seamless patient experiences, and strategic market initiatives.

In line with these efforts, MHTC is spearheading the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026, the nation’s first dedicated year to celebrate and advance healthcare travel. MYMT 2026 serves as a milestone initiative to showcase Malaysia’s world-class healthcare offerings, strengthen its position as the premier global healthcare destination, and highlight the industry’s significant contribution to the national economy.

Legal Innovation Asia 2026 Report Reveals GenAI Transforming Legal Work, But Human Expertise Remains Central

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Advertorial Desk
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– Generative AI is transforming legal work

– Technology adoption depends on education, and leadership buy-in

– Technology matters — but people skills matter more

SINGAPORE, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A newly released report, Legal Innovation Asia 2026: AI Meets Law – The Next Frontier, highlights how generative AI is reshaping the roles of legal professionals, and how prepared Asia’s legal sector is to navigate and capitalise on this new era of innovation. Produced in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Legal Innovation & Technology Association (ALITA), the report is published in the lead-up to the Legal Innovation Festival Southeast Asia 2026, 12–13 March 2026, at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

The research was conducted through roundtable discussions with legal professionals from 47 organisations – law firms, inhouse legal teams, consultancies – across Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong SAR. Key insights include: 

Generative AI Is Transforming Legal Work
AI is reshaping the management, delivery, and value of legal work, not by replacing lawyers but by redefining how they operate. Those who leverage AI effectively will outperform others, yet concerns over data privacy, quality assurance, and ethical governance remain major barriers.

Technology Adoption Depends on Education, and Leadership Buy-in
Many organisations lack senior leadership familiarity with AI, slowing progress. Education and expectation management are essential to overcome fear, misconceptions, and fixed mindsets. Change champions within firms play a vital role but face internal resistance and resource constraints.

Skills for the Future: Digital Fluency + Human Intelligence
Success in the AI era depends on digital literacy, ethical judgment, adaptability, and critical thinking. Lawyers must become strategic, tech-savvy business partners who integrate data, technology, and commercial understanding into legal strategy. Ulitmately, technology matters — but people skills matter more.

The report also includes quotes from the roundtable participants, highlighting that while AI’s potential to transform legal work is clear, key barriers must be addressed through continuous training and responsible innovation of legal AI tools. The findings point to an industry in transition, one that must evolve with AI while ensuring its safe and scalable adoption across the sector.

Building on these findings, the Legal Innovation Festival Southeast Asia 2026 will bring together industry leaders and professionals to unpack AI and innovation in the legal industry. Across two days, attendees will hear from keynote speakers, learn from real-world case studies, and engage in panel discussions and product demonstrations.

Industry leaders such as Laurence Liew, Director of AI Innovation, AI Singapore, Carol Seah, General Counsel, NCS Group, Gladys Chun, General Counsel, Doctors Anywhere and Mel Nirmala, ASEAN Legal Ops Excellence Lead, Bayer South-East Asia & Head, CLOC Singapore Chapter will share their expertise.

Discussing the festival’s role in advancing legal innovation, Anna Turner, Portfolio and Content Director, Hannover Fairs Australia said, “The report underscores the urgent need for the legal sector to harness AI tools. This festival will provide a platform to exchange ideas, address challenges, and shape the next frontier of legal innovation in Asia.” Anna added, “Hosting this event in Singapore is deliberate. As a strategic hub for technology and governance in Asia, Singapore offers the ideal environment for thought leadership and cross-border collaboration that sets standards for the Asia region.”

According to the LexisNexis Generative AI and the Legal Profession 2025 Survey Report for 400 Malaysia and Singapore legal professionals and lawyers, 70% of respondents believe they will fall behind if they do not use AI tools, and 66% are already leveraging AI in their daily work. As Singapore’s legal sector deepens its focus on innovation and digitalisation, it continues to lead the way with proactive regulatory guidance on AI adoption. Initiatives such as MinLaw’s proposed Guide for Using Generative AI in the Legal Sector, along with digitalisation efforts like the LIFT pilot initiative and Productivity Solutions Grant for the Legal Sector (PSG-Legal), are helping firms adopt AI responsibly while maintaining high standards of governance.

The Legal Innovation Festival Southeast Asia 2026 invites law firms, in-house legal teams, technology providers, and industry partners to participate in this landmark event. Opportunities for sponsorship, speaking, and tickets to attend are now open.

For more information, visit https://www.legalinnovationsea.com/.

About Legal Innovation Festival Southeast Asia 2026

The Legal Innovation Festival SE Asia 2026 is a premier platform to explore the latest ideas and solutions transforming the legal industry. Technology is both disrupting and enabling the practice of law, and as systems evolve, new platforms emerge, and strategies shift, legal professionals must continuously adapt.

This event will give legal and allied legal professionals the opportunity to connect and share their knowledge and strategies on how they are navigating these changes. Singapore, with its strong position as a regional legal and innovation hub, is the ideal place to drive this conversation forward, bringing together industry leaders, technologists, and legal professionals from across Southeast Asia to navigate the future of law.

A Well-Oiled Machinery & Equipment Sector: The Silent Strength Powering Malaysia’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Excellence

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Advertorial Desk
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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 – In the global semiconductor race, the loudest voices don’t always belong to those doing the heaviest lifting. While headlines trumpet chip breakthroughs and billion-dollar fabs, Malaysia has been quietly perfecting something far more fundamental: the machinery and equipment that makes it all possible.

This is not the story of flashy innovation or overnight success. It’s the story of four decades spent mastering the unglamorous but indispensable, precision robots that place components with microscopic accuracy, testing equipment that validates every nanometer, and clean room systems that maintain environments more sterile than operating theatres. Behind every chip that rolls off a Malaysian assembly line lies this web of engineering excellence, a competitive advantage so deeply embedded that even global giants struggle to replicate it.

Malaysia ranks as the sixth largest semiconductor exporter globally and commands 13 per cent of the world’s Assembly, Testing and Packaging Operations.

As Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), puts it, “When global semiconductor companies look at Malaysia, they see our competitive costs or our location, But, what really differentiates us is our comprehensive Machinery and Equipment (M&E ecosystem) — the ability to not just build but continuously innovate and maintain the incredibly sophisticated equipment that semiconductor operation depends on.

The integrated Machinery and Equipment (M&E) ecosystem has been fundamentally shaped by key Foreign Investments (FI) that serve as catalysts for local capacity building. Global leaders specialising in front-end equipment, such as LAM Research and Applied Materials, have established major manufacturing and support operations in Malaysia, creating extensive sourcing opportunities for local players. At the same time, back-end equipment innovator Besi APAC and Cohu actively collaborates with Malaysian companies, transferring expertise in high-precision manufacturing. This strategic integration has played a critical role in advancing homegrown champions such as Pentamaster, Vitrox, Greatech, Tonasco and SFP, enabling them to evolve from simple component suppliers into engineering partners capable of meeting global standards in advanced packaging and complex assembly.

This robust ecosystem, honed across generations of manufacturing excellence, is Malaysia’s quiet competitive edge. It comprises a complete value chain, supported by our foundational engineering support expertise in precision machining, tooling, and high-tolerance metal fabrication, which forms the physical backbone for more complex automated equipment and robotics. And now, as the country pivots from its decades-long dominance in downstream activities toward capturing high-value front-end segments, that machinery and equipment foundation is about to become its most potent weapon.

MIDA’s Gameplan: A Multi-Pronged Strategic Push

The shift is as ambitious as it is necessary. High-value segments such as chip design and advanced manufacturing technologies depend on specialised M&E such as lithography, deposition, and etching equipment — critical processes that define the performance and capabilities of every modern chip.

MIDA is spearheading the shift by positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for front-end semiconductor M&E manufacturing, guided by clear mandates from the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS). On the international front, the agency is actively courting global pioneers in front-end equipment manufacturing to attract anchor investments that will accelerate the development of a sophisticated, high-value manufacturing ecosystem within Malaysia.

The strategic push, however, goes beyond just attracting investments. MIDA is building a thriving high-tech ecosystem to support technology transfer, knowledge exchange and collaborative innovation. The agency maps local manufacturers and facilitate high-impact business matching at key events like SEMICON Southeast Asia 2025, creating direct pathways for Malaysian suppliers to embed themselves into global supply chains and engage with industry titans like ASML, Ferrotec, and Micron.

The goal is nothing less than repositioning Malaysian M&E companies from component suppliers to strategic innovation partners in the most critical segments of the global value chain.

Nurturing Homegrown Champions

Yet for all the emphasis on global partnerships, MIDA understand that Malaysia’s semiconductor future must be built on homegrown capabilities. The focus has shifted toward nurturing deep expertise in highly specialised areas such as, advanced mechatronics, precision optics, and complex process technologies. Through targeted facilitation and incentives. the government is betting that Malaysian companies can close the gap with global leaders faster than anyone expects.

Industry veterans like Chuah Choon Bin, founder and executive chairman of Penang-based Pentamaster Corporation Berhad, welcome the support. “In today’s fiercely competitive environment, where intense price competition particularly from China continues to put pressure on margins, the financial support from the government is crucial to help Malaysian companies like us to remain competitive globally,” he explains.

For Pentamaster, which has been operating since 1991, the fiscal support provided by the Malaysian Government through MIDA have been transformative. “These facilitation allow us to intensify R&D, adopt cutting-edge technologies and expand into advanced technology areas in the ATE and FAS segments.” Chuah notes. “They provide the necessary support for us to invest in next-generation technologies like advanced packaging technologies and shorten our time-to-market, which is critical in an industry driven by rapid innovation cycles,”.

Pentamaster’s story reflects the broader heritage that makes Malaysia’s M&E sector resilient. Back then, Penang hosted a deep ecosystem in M&E, electronics, sheet metal fabrication and semiconductor manufacturing.

That heritage, Chuah said, “provided Pentamaster with access to a skilled workforce, precision engineering know-how and a strong supplier network”, advantages that continue to pay dividends today.

The Turning Point

This evolving narrative marks a crucial turning point for Malaysia: the country is ascending from an auxiliary support role to a core position in the advanced chip production infrastructure. The country that spent decades perfecting the machinery behind the scenes is stepping into the spotlight, ready to claim its place among the semiconductor elite.

For a nation that has always let its work speak louder than its words, this moment feels both inevitable and earned. Malaysia’s enduring semiconductor legacy, built on precision, persistence, and the unglamorous art of making things work, is about to be cemented on the global map.

And, the machinery that got them here is just getting started.

Hashtag: #MIDA

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

OMANI PATIENTS GAIN DIRECT ACCESS TO MALAYSIAN MEDICAL SPECIALISTS THROUGH WEEK-LONG HEALTHCARE ACTIVATION

By
Advertorial Desk
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SEEB, Oman, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Malaysia Healthcare Week opens at City Centre Mall, Seeb, marking the first major Middle East activation under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026. The week-long programme connects Omani patients with Malaysian medical specialists through public exhibitions, clinical consultations and professional exchange, demonstrating Malaysia’s “Healing Meets Hospitality” approach to international healthcare.

The initiative runs through 5 November in partnership with the Embassy of Malaysia in Oman. IHH Healthcare Group leads the Malaysian delegation, joined by Prince Court Medical Centre, Alpha IVF & Women Specialists, and PERKESO Rehabilitation Centre. Also participating alongside Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) is Tourism Malaysia Dubai Office to coordinate patient facilitation and travel logistics, in conjunction with the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026 and Visit Malaysia 2026.

The programme includes two components:

  • City Centre Mall Exhibition (29 October – 2 November): a public-facing showcase of Malaysia’s hospitals, services and specialties, combining interactive booths, live Q&A with clinicians and consumer-focused materials.
  • Oman World Cancer Congress, Summit & Exhibition 2025 (3–5 November): Malaysian hospital representatives engage with oncology professionals across the Middle East region to explore clinical collaboration, knowledge transfer and patient referral pathways.

Beyond clinical capabilities, Malaysian hospitals provide services designed specifically for Middle Eastern patients: halal-certified food across all facilities, Arabic-speaking care coordinators, family accommodation within hospital complexes and culturally-informed care protocols that respect patient privacy and religious practices, distinguishing Malaysia’s healthcare model and reflecting the service standards coordinated across all MYMT 2026 activities.

“Malaysia Healthcare Week Oman demonstrates what MYMT 2026 represents, a unified national commitment to delivering medical excellence within a care environment designed around patient needs,” said Suriaghandi Suppiah, Chief Executive Officer of MHTC. “Omani patients receive not just treatment but a complete care experience that acknowledges their cultural values, family structures and personal preferences. This week gives them direct access to our specialists while building the professional relationships that enable ongoing collaboration between our healthcare systems.”

MHTC will conclude its Middle East activation at the Best of Malaysia Showcase in Doha, Qatar on 6 November 2025. Organised by the Embassy of Malaysia in Qatar and supported by MHTC’s strategic partner, REXPO, the event will serve as a key platform to highlight Malaysia’s world-class healthcare offerings. The consecutive Oman and Qatar engagements establish consistent regional presence throughout the MYMT 2026 campaign period and reinforce Malaysia’s commitment to the Middle East healthcare market.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Mohamad Shahizam Fauzi
Head, Communications
+603 8776 6168
shahizam.f@mhtc.org.my

Siti Hamidah Mohd Najib
Senior Executive, Communications
+603 8776 6168
hamidah.m@mhtc.org.my

About Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council

Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), established in 2009 under the purview of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia, is entrusted with developing and nurturing the “Malaysia Healthcare” brand. MHTC enhances, coordinates, and promotes Malaysia’s healthcare travel industry by fostering industry collaborations and building valuable public-private partnerships both domestically and internationally. With 80 member hospitals nationwide, MHTC continues to elevate the healthcare travel ecosystem through strong branding, seamless patient experiences, and strategic market initiatives. In line with these efforts, MHTC is spearheading the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026, the nation’s first dedicated year to celebrate and advance healthcare travel. MYMT 2026 serves as a milestone initiative to showcase Malaysia’s world-class healthcare offerings, strengthen its position as the premier global healthcare destination, and highlight the industry’s significant contribution to the national economy.

More information can be found at https://www.mhtc.org.my/. 

Laos Sets New Economic Direction Under 2026–2030 Development Strategy

By
Beatrice Siviero
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Lao Government Outline Plans for Economic Independence in 2025
Lao Fresh Market in Vientiane Capital. (Photo: seethinkexplore )

Laos is setting an ambitious new course for national growth as the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Ministry of Finance have rolled out their five-year development plans for 2026–2030, outlining strategies to accelerate industrialization, strengthen financial stability, and build a self-reliant economy.

At the sixth Party Committee Congress of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce in late October, Deputy Minister Chanthaboun Soukaloun presented the draft Industry and Trade Development Plan, which positions the sector as a central driver of the country’s economic transformation. 

The plan sets ambitious targets for the industry and trade sector to contribute at least 36.2 percent to GDP, with projected annual growth rates of 12.65 percent for industry, 14.54 percent for domestic trade, and 10.62 percent for foreign trade.

Over the past five years, the ministry reported steady progress, achieving 180.82 percent of its industrial output target and surpassing foreign trade goals with USD 83.86 billion in total trade value. Building on this momentum, the new plan aims to promote value-added production, develop a competitive energy market, improve trade facilitation, and advance digital and green transformation across industries.

The plan aligns with the government’s broader National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP), targeting overall GDP growth of 5.5 percent per year.

MSME Challenges Highlight the Need for Reform

During the same congress, Vice President Pany Yathotou called for greater focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which employ more than 80 percent of Laos’ workforce but continue to face major barriers to growth.

She warned that without stronger support, Laos risks stifling a sector vital for job creation and economic competitiveness. “MSMEs must be prioritized in national development,” she said, urging simplified procedures, greater transparency, and expanded access to finance.

Access to credit remains the most pressing obstacle. The May 2025 Lao Economic Monitor noted that high government borrowing and a fragile, bank-dominated financial system limit private sector lending. Inflation, currency depreciation, and dollarization have also made loans for small firms riskier and costlier.

Many MSMEs rely on internal funds due to lack of collateral, low financial literacy, and weak business documentation. These issues discourage banks from lending, a concern echoed by Nayoby Bank Deputy Director Bounxord Fongsanith, who said high collateral requirements, often double the loan amount, and poor record-keeping make formal financing “nearly impossible” for small firms.

Administrative hurdles further constrain MSMEs. A World Bank report previously found that complex regulations and inconsistent enforcement keep many businesses informal, limiting their potential contribution to economic growth.

Without urgent reform, experts warn, Laos’s most important job creators will continue to struggle, a challenge the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s new five-year plan aims to address through financing reforms and business environment improvements.

Finance Ministry Strengthens Fiscal Management and Reform

Meanwhile, at the fourth Party Committee Congress of the Ministry of Finance, Santip Phomvihane, a member of the Party Central Committee, was elected Secretary of the Ministry’s Party Committee for the fourth term. 

The congress, attended by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and senior Party officials, reviewed the achievements of the previous five-year plan and approved the new financial sector development plan to 2030.

The finance sector’s new plan emphasizes fiscal discipline, improved revenue management, and enhanced coordination with other ministries to ensure that financial policies effectively support national development priorities. 

Delegates also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to comprehensive reform in line with the Party’s principles and the government’s modernization agenda.

Both ministries’ new strategies aim to build a self-sustaining economy driven by industry, trade, and sustainable financial governance.

Central Bank Targets Stability and Modernization

The Bank of Laos (BOL) also unveiled its own five-year plan for 2026–2030 during its fifth Party Congress held on 26 October in Vientiane.

According to Governor Bounkham Vorachit, Secretary of the Party Committee, the plan prioritizes financial stability, stronger oversight, and innovation in digital banking to enhance inclusion and efficiency. It also builds on past efforts to modernize the financial sector and improve transparency.

Amid these reforms, the central bank is accelerating its digital modernization and regional integration agenda. Cross-border QR payment systems with Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, South Korea, and China now enable seamless cashless transactions for tourists and businesses, supporting both financial transparency and the country’s digital economy goals

Recent challenges in the banking sector have also highlighted the urgency of these reforms. 

In 2024, the Bank of Laos reported 21 corruption cases, including incidents within BOL and several state-owned banks, resulting in losses of nearly LAK 1.6 billion (approximately USD 74,000), of which only LAK 137 million (about USD 6,300) has been recovered.

A total of 167 individuals faced disciplinary action, while investigations continue at major financial institutions. These issues, the bank noted, highlight the need for stronger accountability and tighter oversight mechanisms to protect public trust and ensure financial integrity.

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