Technology

During the Ukraine war, Western tech companies' withdrawal risks isolating Russians from independent information sources, potentially strengthening Kremlin propaganda and internet control strategies.

Malaysia is actively working to mitigate semiconductor order backlogs that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Global supply chain issues, including lockdowns, factory incidents, and transportation challenges, have significantly impacted the semiconductor industry's production and delivery capabilities.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a formal safety probe into Tesla's Autopilot system after identifying 11 crashes involving Tesla vehicles at first responder scenes since 2018. The investigation covers approximately 765,000 U.S. vehicles equipped with Autopilot since 2014.

Japan has approved a $338 million semiconductor research project with Taiwan's TSMC to develop advanced chip technology. The collaboration aims to enhance Japan's competitiveness in the semiconductor sector, particularly crucial for industries like automotive manufacturing facing global chip shortages.

Telecommunications giants Axiata Group and Telenor Asia have finalized a strategic merger of their Malaysian wireless operations, creating a robust digital convergence service provider. The combined entity promises significant synergies, with projected pre-tax profits of 5.7 billion ringgit and potential for enhanced market competitiveness in the regional tech landscape.

Britain and Singapore begin talks on a digital trade agreement aimed at removing barriers for tech companies and expanding economic collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, supporting post-COVID economic recovery and global tech ambitions.

Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) has chosen Ericsson to deploy Malaysia's nationwide 5G network, investing RM11 billion in critical infrastructure. The project aims to accelerate the country's digital economy transition, with Ericsson's technology expected to provide comprehensive network coverage across the nation.

Malaysian engineering firm KAB partners with Janakuasa to enter Vietnam's renewable energy market. The collaboration involves establishing a special purpose company to acquire majority stakes in three hydropower stations, with power purchase agreements valid from 2030 to 2039.

Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC Pte Ltd has purchased a 16% stake in Sunway Healthcare Holdings for RM750 million. Greenwood Capital, a GIC arm, signed a share purchase agreement to acquire interests in Sunway Healthcare, including 100 million shares and convertible preferred shares.

GlobalFoundries is investing $4 billion in a new chip factory in Singapore, joining rivals like TSMC and Samsung in expanding production capacity. The US-based company plans additional investments in Germany and the United States, aiming to address ongoing semiconductor shortages affecting multiple industries.