Global leading AI device ecosystem company HONOR has been recognized for its commitment to digital inclusion and innovation by winning two top accolades at the GSMA Digital Nation Awards 2025.

The award recognize outstanding achievements across the Asia Pacific region and HONOR was the only participant to receive two prestigious honors – the Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award and the Best Digital Nation Video Award.

The recognition was given for HONOR’s compelling awareness campaign, ‘Freeze for ALS, HONOR the Challenger’ which centers about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) disease.

The vdeo was lauded for showcasing the power of mobile technology in driving sustainability, digital inclusion, and innovation. It competed against 17 other shortlisted finalists before securing the top recognition.

ALS is a progressive neurological disease that often leaves patients with control only of their eye movement. To meet the needs of people with disabilities like ALS, HONOR developed an advanced multimodal AI eye-tracking technology which enables users to fully control their smartphones—from opening notifications to launching apps—using only their eyes, thereby achieving hands-free operation and significantly enhancing their digital accessibility.

“As the only participant received two GSMA APAC Digital Nation Awards this year, HONOR is
deeply humbled by this recognition. This highlights our unwavering commitment and positive impact in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable digital future globally and locally.

Indeed, HONOR MY Life, HONOR MY Future!” said Justin Li, President of HONOR South Pacific. Strengthening Digital Trust Through Strategic Partnerships and Advanced Security
Technologies During a keynote at the Digital Nation Summit Kuala Lumpur (ASEAN Edition) on ‘Cybersecurity and Digital Trust: Safeguarding ASEAN’s Digital Future,’ Li emphasised that effective and accessible security requires a combination of human-centric innovation and strategic partnerships.

“HONOR collaborates actively with regulators, platforms, and software partners to create a safer online environment. In Malaysia, we work closely with Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and MyDigital ID to enhance secure, seamless access to digital services while safeguarding user privacy,” he said.

He added that HONOR’s integration of its advanced AI Deepfake Detection technology, which detects fake and manipulated content during video calls, into its smartphones at no additional cost, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to user security, privacy, and digital trust.

“Cybersecurity is a fundamental necessity, not a cost. In emerging markets like ASEAN,
affordability matters. That is why HONOR continues providing the best devices at the best price.

HONOR’s popular mid-range X Series’ latest model, the X9d 5G, comes with security features such as Figerprint ID and Face Recognition,” he said.

Malaysia is fast emerging as a regional hub for artificial intelligence and cloud data centres, where cooling is one of the most resource-intensive operational needs.

At MARVEX 2025, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), LG Electronics Malaysia (LG) highlighted how its latest HVAC innovations – including the newly launched AI Air and the next-generation MULTI V™ i VRF system – are designed to support this growth.

Malaysia has approved more than RM114.7 billion in data centre-related investments between 2021 and 2023. With facilities scaling rapidly to meet global demand, the challenge lies in balancing performance with sustainability.

This is where LG’s complete HVAC lineup – spanning residential, commercial and industrial solutions – plays a role in enabling energy- efficient cooling across environments.

The AI Air, presented to the industry at MARVEX for the first time, demonstrates how LG is applying its AI, Affectionate Intelligence to everyday comfort. While designed primarily for homes, its adaptive learning optimises cooling based on real-time conditions and user behaviour.

By improving efficiency at the consumer level, AI Air contributes to Malaysia’s broader goal of reducing energy intensity across its built environment.

LEVEL UP KL 2025, Southeast Asia’s premier game developer conference, returns this 6-8 October at Connexion Conference & Event Centre, Bangsar South. The region’s vibrant gaming industry is gearing up for its biggest showcase.

Hosted by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), an agency under the Ministry of Digital, the three-day conference will unite developers, studios, publishers, investors, tech providers, and creators from across the region and beyond.

LEVEL UP KL is where the region’s game development scene levels up with pitch-ready projects, global launches, studio scouting, and high-value deals unfolding in real time.

This year, the focus goes beyond showcasing Southeast Asia’s creative and commercial strength. It’s about transforming momentum into tangible outcomes through curated networking, project pitching, and global visibility. At LEVEL UP KL 2025, opportunities turn into partnerships and futures are built.

Last year’s edition welcomed over 2,500 attendees and 80 exhibitors, featuring big names like Double Eleven, Larian Studios, Xsolla, Kaigan Games, Metronomik, Electronic Arts and PlayStation Studios.

It also generated over RM130 million in business opportunities. Building on this success, LEVEL UP KL 2025 is set to raise the bar even higher with power-packed keynotes, thought-provoking panels, hands-on masterclasses, and live demos.

The opening day will feature intensive Masterclass Workshops led by global industry experts, and Pitch Day, where selected game developers will present their titles and prototypes to international publishers and investors.

Game developers can expect international publishers like Nintendo, Kowloon Nights, Neon Doctrine and many more at this year’s LEVEL UP KL 2025. These sessions are designed to go beyond exposure, they’re built to secure real deals, funding, and lasting partnerships.

“LEVEL UP KL shows how Malaysia is taking a lead in Southeast Asia’s gaming space. It is more than just a gathering; it’s a catalyst,” said Anuar Fariz Fadzil, Chief Executive Officer of MDEC.

“As the nation’s digital economy enabler, MDEC is committed to empowering homegrown talent, driving innovation, and expanding global opportunities, while positioning Malaysia as a leading hub for game development in the region,” he added.

Across three action-packed days, LEVEL UP KL 2025 will present signature programmes such as:

• Industry Conference: keynotes and panel discussions with leading voices in design, monetisation, storytelling, and emerging trends.
• Business Connection Programme: curated one-on-one meetings between developers, publishers, and investors.
• Pitch Day : top regional games and prototypes showcased to global decision-makers.
• SEA Game Awards : celebrating standout titles in innovation, visual art, and design.
• LEVEL UP KL Steam Event : a two-week global showcase of Southeast Asian indie games via the Steam platform.
• SEA Game Jam : a 48-hour sprint where developers team up to build original games from scratch.
  

Samsung Electronics announced the launch of the E-Inverter Air Conditioner, designed to provide Malaysians with a smarter way to stay cool in the country’s year-round heat and humidity.

Combining advanced energy-saving technology with enhanced comfort and air quality features, the new unit underscores Samsung’s commitment to delivering innovations that improve everyday living.

With increasing demand for home appliances that balance performance, affordability, and sustainability, the E-Inverter Air Conditioner offers a reliable solution that keeps homes comfortable while helping to manage energy costs.

Smarter Cooling for Everyday Use
A key feature of the E-Inverter Air Conditioner is the Digital Inverter Technology, which fine-tunes the compressor speed to maintain consistent temperatures without the frequent stop-and start of traditional systems.

This ensures quieter operation and improved energy efficiency, especially for households that rely on air conditioning daily. For immediate relief, the Fast Cooling Mode quickly lowers room temperature by operating the fan at maximum speed before gradually adjusting airflow.

This feature is particularly effective for bedrooms at night or living spaces during the hottest hours of the day.

Comfort and Care for the Home
Beyond cooling, the E-Inverter Air Conditioner also contributes to a healthier living environment with its HD Filter, engineered to capture dust, allergens, and airborne particles commonly found in Malaysian households.

These include everyday pollutants such as pollen, pet dander, and mold spores that often aggravate allergies or breathing sensitivities. Washable and reusable, the filter reduces replacement costs while maintaining long-term performance.

For night time use, the Good Sleep Mode automatically regulates temperature throughout the different stages of sleep, ensuring uninterrupted rest while consuming less energy than standard cooling modes.

Comfort is further enhanced by the 2-Way Auto Swing function, which distributes airflow evenly across the room to eliminate hot spots and maintain consistent coverage in both compact and larger spaces.

M+Global by Malacca Securities, Malaysia’s No.1 stock trading platform and trusted all-in-one trading app, has opened the doors to its very first stockbroking concept store located at KL Eco City.

Billed as Malaysia’s first of its kind stock trading retail experience, the concept store elevates FinTech with a human touch to help Malaysians, particularly youth in the 25 to 45 age group, to bridge their financial knowledge gaps with complete clarity and confidence in a premium, physical location.

The launch ceremony was attended by representatives from Bursa Malaysia, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and featured a special tele-presentation by Toh Ee Wei, Malaysia’s rising badminton star.

Malaysians keen on empowering themselves with financial literacy can level up on their learning experience through this highly interactive learning hub packed with features including a product experience zone, investment learning hub, merchandise retail, private consultation and a fun ‘Snap It’ photo zone.

“The Concept Store cements M+Global’s brand promise of “Less Guessing, More Guiding” to help Malaysians move beyond just saving to actively growing their wealth through sound investment knowledge,” said Ms. Lim Chia Wei, Managing Director, M+Global at the opening ceremony.

“The store’s focus on education aims to help move Malaysians beyond just saving to actively growing their wealth through a combination of expert advice, basic knowledge and sound investment strategies.

In addition to our own stable of over 200 in-house licensed investment experts, the M+Global Concept Store will be playing host to an exciting line-up of sharing sessions, talks and seminars with other investment professionals, to provide a rounded and complete picture of financial knowledge.”

Financial Knowledge is Wealth
According to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), while the state of financial literacy in Malaysia has been steadily improving, with a rise in the Malaysia Financial Literacy and Capability (MyFLIC) Index from 57.1 in 2018 to 59.1 in 2024, significant challenges remain, especially regarding financial behaviour and resilience.

Surveys like the Financial Capability and Inclusion (FCI) Demand Side Survey have found that a significant portion of Malaysians remain vulnerable to financial shocks with the 2024 survey revealing that 61% of Malaysians have difficulty raising as little as RM1,000 in an emergency.

What’s more, while many Malaysians claim to save regularly, savings are often earmarked only for the short term and are frequently withdrawn to cover daily expenses. Additionally, poor financial management is a concern, with a notable number of Malaysians, particularly young people, feeling burdened by debt from student loans and personal credit with the same survey showing as many as 26% of Malaysians feeling they carry too much debt.

Giving Digital Finance a Human Touch

By leveraging its over 60 years of experience in the financial services sector via award-winning, homegrown stockbroking company Malacca Securities Sdn. Bhd. the M+Global Concept Store will provide visitors with ready access to private consultations, tailored to their investing needs, with their in-house stable of over 200 licensed experts.

This exclusive service ensures that every individual feels supported, with their unique goals and challenges taken into account, underscoring M+Global’s commitment to making investing not just about tools and knowledge, but also about guidance and personal growth.

Additionally, visitors are also encouraged to fully leverage the concept store’s Investment
Learning Hub, which was designed to empower visitors with knowledge, but with a fresh twist.

Beyond the free educational workshops and seminars that cover topics ranging from investment basics to advanced strategies, the space will also host talk shows and interactive sessions led by industry voices that will make finance fun and approachable.

Kicking things off in October is BBK Network, best known for breaking down complex money topics into fun, relatable advice that especially resonates with younger Malaysians. In November, the spotlight will shift to Financial Faiz, a respected financial educator who has built his reputation by sharing practical, step-by-step strategies for building wealth and achieving financial independence.

The series is set to continue in January with a special mystery guest who will be announced at a later date. Visitors to the Concept Store will not only get the chance to learn directly from these featured guests, but also be part of a growing community of Malaysians eager to make finance simpler and more relatable; whether it’s step-by-step guidance from seasoned industry experts or lively conversations that simplify money matters.

M+Global to play doubles with its first Brand Ambassador, Malaysian badminton rising
star, Toh Ee Wei

In conjunction with the launch of the concept store, M+Global also presented its first and only brand ambassador Toh Ee Wei, one of Malaysian’s biggest badminton talents today. Fresh off her recent victory as one half of Malaysia’s first-ever mixed doubles gold medallist at the 2025 World Championships in Paris, Toh Ee Wei will now extend her influence as a role model for young Malaysians to highlight the importance of taking charge of one’s own financial affairs in an increasingly unpredictable world.

“M+Global is very excited to partner up with Ms Toh in guiding Malaysians with sound financial knowledge. With her compelling background of reaching the pinnacle of success in her field in the face of much personal adversity, Ms Toh’s role as brand ambassador follows in the footsteps of her father Mr. Toh who has served M+Global for over 20 years,” said Ms. Lim Chia Wei, on appointing Ms Toh to the role.

To celebrate the launch of the M+Global Concept Store, visitors will get to participate in the following store launch promotional activities.
1: Free Coffee
Available for 4 days only, starting September 23rd, customers who follow and post on social media, including the hashtags #mplusglobal and #mplusglobalconceptstore will enjoy a cup of coffee for free
2: Review
Customers who submit a 5-star Google review with words and photos for the M+Global Concept Store can participate in a gashapon draw
3: Exclusive Merch
The first 50 Concept Store customers to the M+Global app, register, and open an account will receive an exclusive Teh Tarik Mau figurine.

MyDigital ID Sdn Bhd (MyDigital ID) and HONOR Malaysia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), making the brand the first smartphone manufacturer to support the government’s initiative to boost digital identity adoption.

This partnership aims to pre-install the MyDigital ID application on new HONOR smartphones, providing users nationwide with immediate and easy access to digital verification services.

This initiative is a key step in the government’s wider digital transformation agenda, which targets 15 million Malaysians registered with the MyDigital ID system by the end of this year.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by President of HONOR South Pacific, Justin Li and Chief Executive Officer of MyDigital ID, Nik Hisham Nik Ibrahim.

“By including the MyDigital ID app directly on HONOR’s new smartphone, we are simplifying the registration process and making it easier for more Malaysians to access important government applications systems and private services without the need for downloading additional apps or complex registration,” said Li.

“HONOR is proud to be the first smartphone brand to support the Malaysian government initiative, reinforcing our commitment to co-creating a value-sharing ecosystem through open collaboration and redefining human-to-device interactions,” he said.

“Our collaboration with HONOR demonstrates the value of working hand-in-hand with global technology leaders. The users, Malaysians, will now have immediate access to a secure digital identity the moment they unbox this device.

In the future, we hope to expand such collaborations to other connected devices and platforms, making the user experience to access and use MyDigital ID easy and simple. Partnerships such as this are proof that when government and industry work together, Malaysia thrives.

It is through collaborations like today’s that we lay the foundations of a stronger digital future: one that is secure, inclusive, and globally competitive,” said Nik Hisham.

The collaboration begins with the new HONOR X9d 5G, which officially launches today and will have the MyDigital ID app pre-installed. On HONOR’s smartphones, users can enroll their biometric, directly within the app during registration process to access services seamlessly.

This help reduce the risk of fraud and ensures safe access to services.