The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Ant International have strengthened their collaboration to accelerate digital transformation among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Malaysia.
Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Ant International will extend its support to local MSMEs through EPOS, the all-in-one SME transformation platform under Antom, offering a comprehensive suite of digitalisation and business solutions. MDEC will drive nationwide adoption by engaging MSME communities, industry associations, and ecosystem partners nationwide.
As Malaysia’s lead agency in advancing an innovation-led digital economy, MDEC will continue to champion initiatives that connect local communities, industry partners and ecosystem players, enabling them to collectively reach SMEs across diverse sectors.
Congratulations to MDEC’s Chief Executive Office, Anuar Fariz Fadzil and his team on this initiative. We are proud to see MDEC, a valued AMCHAM Bronze-Tiered member, taking bold steps to strengthen MSME capabilities and nurture local digital talent. Their efforts play a crucial role in shaping Malaysia’s journey toward a more innovative, inclusive, and AI-ready economy.
Read the full release here:
The Digital Minister, Mr Gobind Singh Deo said on 24 November 2025 that the drafting of Malaysia’s first AI Governance Bill is nearly complete. This Bill is drafted as a sweeping legislation which seeks to address artificial intelligence (AI) risks comprehensively, and forms part of a larger AI legislative framework which is to be presented to the Cabinet in June 2026.
The Minister stated the Bill is being developed through the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO), and will be a risk-based model covering areas such as AI-related harm, incident reporting and ethical principles. This Bill is intended to address risks in a holistic manner and to establish responsible use of AI nationwide.
On 3 December, AMCHAM hosted a Spotlight Session with Flowcrete titled Design Meets Durability: The Art of Seamless Flooring. The session highlighted how advanced seamless resin flooring and specialist coatings can elevate design, enhance performance, and improve sustainability in modern commercial environments.
With more than 40 years of global expertise and three decades in Asia, Flowcrete continues to lead in innovative flooring solutions for sectors such as airports, retail malls, healthcare, and hospitality.
Chin May Ling, Country Manager at Tremco CPG, delivered an in-depth presentation showcasing Flowcrete’s design versatility, flexibility, environmental advantages, what to consider when choosing flooring and more. AMCHAM extends its appreciation to Flowcrete for an insightful and engaging session.
Malaysia’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing received another major boost this week.
On 2 December, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Intel will be investing an additional RM860 million (US$208 million) to expand its assembly and testing operations in Malaysia. This new commitment reinforces Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain at a time when demand for high-value manufacturing continues to accelerate.
Intel is one of AMCHAM’s long-standing Gold-tier members, and its commitment to the Chamber is further reflected through the leadership of AK Chong, Vice President of Foundry Technology and Manufacturing at Intel Corporation and Managing Director of Intel Malaysia, who serves on AMCHAM’s Board of Governors. Her presence on the Board underscores Intel’s deep and continued engagement with both AMCHAM and the wider U.S. business community in Malaysia.
Prime Minister Anwar noted that the announcement follows his recent meeting with Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, underscoring that global companies continue to view Malaysia as a strategic investment destination. This latest expansion further demonstrates the confidence U.S. investors have in Malaysia’s talent, capabilities, and long-term competitiveness.
Read the News here: https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2025/12/1328187/intel-invest-additional-us208-million-malaysia-pm-says
Azmi & Associates has released articles from 10 October – 26 November 2025. Click on the links below to read the article(s).
AMCHAM’s Leadership Series spotlights the various members of the Chamber taking on a leadership role either within a committee or on the board. This series serves as a platform for leaders to share their perspectives on being part of AMCHAM’s leadership.
In this edition, we are proud to feature our Board member and Gold tiered member, AK Chong, Vice President of Foundry Technology and Manufacturing, Intel Corporation and Managing Director of Intel Malaysia. See her responses below.
Question 1: How can members—especially new or less active ones—get more involved and help shape the Chamber’s direction?
For Intel, we’ve seen firsthand how AMCHAM has helped create meaningful opportunities to connect, collaborate, and contribute. Whether it’s through policy discussions, talent development programs, or community initiatives, being a part of the Chamber has helped us stay engaged with what matters most to our business and our people.
If you’re a new member looking to get more involved, start by showing up. Attend events and join conversations that align with your company’s priorities. I believe there’s a space for everyone to participate and contribute. AMCHAM’s programs can be incredibly valuable depending on how much you engage. They’re great for networking and understanding current business priorities, and the more you lean in, the more meaningful the experience becomes.
I’d also encourage you to actively share your feedback and ideas with the AMCHAM team. Member input often shapes its future initiatives and focus areas. So, be part of the dialogue your perspective could spark a meaningful change.
Question 2: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for AMCHAM’s growth and impact over the next 3–5 years?
I’d love to see AMCHAM continue strengthening its role as a reliable link between U.S. businesses and Malaysian stakeholders. That connection has always been important, and I think it’ll matter even more as industries evolve, and new challenges emerge.
There’s also a real opportunity to broaden member engagement, not just across sectors, but across regions and company sizes. Emerging industries, startups, and even smaller teams have a lot to contribute, and AMCHAM can help bring those voices into the fold.
I also hope to see deeper engagement with young professionals – those early in their careers who are eager to grow, contribute, and lead. Building future-ready talent starts with early exposure, and AMCHAM is in a great position to create more spaces for them to learn, be empowered, and connect with industry leaders.
At its core, I hope AMCHAM stays true to what makes it special – a values-driven, inclusive, and forward-thinking business community.
Question 3: In your opinion, why is it important for U.S. businesses operating in Malaysia to be actively engaged with AMCHAM?
AMCHAM offers more than just access – it’s a platform to stay informed, build connections, and shape the conversations that matter. For U.S. companies navigating the Malaysian landscape, that kind of access and insight is invaluable.
It also creates a sense of community among businesses navigating similar challenges, especially when it comes to engaging with government stakeholders and staying ahead of policy and regulatory changes. AMCHAM helps members connect to the right channels, share insights, and work together on priorities like talent development, sustainability, inclusivity, and ease of doing business in the country.
Active engagement isn’t just strategic, it’s about being a part of something bigger. It’s a chance to contribute to Malaysia’s growth, strengthen bilateral ties, and build relationships that go beyond business. Being engaged with AMCHAM opens doors to new opportunities, fresh ideas, stronger connections, and shared progress.
