World

The newly launched China-Laos-Thailand train route offers a faster and more cost-effective transportation solution, cutting travel time to 55 hours and reducing expenses by 20%. Carrying 19 refrigerated containers with 286 tonnes of fresh vegetables, the train connects Kunming to Bangkok via Vientiane, promising improved trade momentum.

Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Tan Sri Nor Shamsiah Mohd Yunus reports that Malaysia is unlikely to enter a recession this year. Despite reduced foreign demand, domestic expenditure is expected to anchor economic growth, with the first quarter of 2023 showing more robust performance compared to the fourth quarter of 2022.

Chinese investment is set to accelerate Malaysia's transition to a low-carbon economy, with potential growth in high-tech sectors like electric vehicle manufacturing. Business leader Datuk Liew Chee Ming anticipates increased investor interest following the return of Chinese tourists.

Rapid Synergy Bhd's chairman, Yu Kuan Chon, deceived shareholders with fraudulent misrepresentation in the 2021 Annual Report. The company hid related parties to avoid a mandatory takeover offer.

Sarawak is set to experience significant improvements in internet connectivity with the launch of the Batam Sarawak Internet cable system (Basics) and a new data center. Developed by PPTEL under the Irix brand, these infrastructure investments aim to address connectivity challenges, especially in rural areas.

The European Union and United States have reached a preliminary agreement to ease data transfer restrictions, allowing European personal information to be stored in the US. President Biden and European Commission President von der Leyen announced the breakthrough during Biden's Brussels visit.

Malaysia is working to address semiconductor order backlogs that emerged during the pandemic. Lockdown-related operational suspensions, combined with global manufacturing disruptions like factory incidents and the Suez Canal blockage, have significantly impacted integrated circuit component supplies worldwide.

Telecommunications giants Axiata Group and Telenor Asia have completed a landmark merger of their Malaysian wireless operations, creating a new tech leader. The combined entity, MergeCo, promises significant synergies, with pre-tax profits of 5.7 billion ringgit and strong financial prospects. Both parent companies will hold equal 33.1% stakes in the newly formed company.

Canadian AI platform BluDot, founded by Kamran Khan, detected the novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China before official health organizations. Using machine learning and monitoring 65 languages, the platform provided early warnings about the emerging pandemic.

At CES 2020, TV manufacturers unveiled cutting-edge televisions with AI technology, voice assistant integration, and smart home control features. Brands like LG, Samsung, Sony, and TCL presented innovative high-definition models designed to appeal to tech-savvy consumers.