MIDA Partners ENERtec Asia 2026 to Advance Malaysia’s Energy Transition and Digital Economy
馬來西亞投資發展署 (MIDA) 策略結盟ENERtec Asia 2026會展，推動馬來西亞能源轉型和數位經濟
The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) has announced a strategic partnership with ENERtec Asia 2026, Southeast Asia’s leading energy technology exhibition and conference, to accelerate the development of renewable energy (RE) and battery energy storage systems (BESS) as key enablers of Malaysia’s growing digital economy. Scheduled to take place from 3–5 June 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the event will be co-located with Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s (TNB) Energy Transition Conference (ETCon) under the theme “Energy & AI: The Synergy for Energy Transition.” The collaboration comes as Malaysia seeks to strengthen energy security, support rising electricity demand from AI, data centres, and advanced manufacturing, and position itself as a regional hub for sustainable industrial growth. MIDA CEO Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the partnership reflects Malaysia’s commitment to leveraging AI and clean energy technologies to achieve net-zero ambitions while creating investment opportunities in emerging energy sectors.
Organised by Informa Markets Malaysia and co-hosted by The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia (TEEAM), ENERtec Asia 2026 is expected to attract more than 12,000 industry professionals from 60 countries and regions, along with 1,000 companies and brands. A key highlight will be the WATT’S NEXT seminar series, focusing on the intersection of AI and energy, as well as the role of utility-scale battery storage and renewable energy in ensuring grid stability. MIDA will lead discussions on investment opportunities under Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), while industry leaders will showcase innovations in smart grids, EV infrastructure, and energy efficiency solutions. The event is supported by major industry associations and government agencies, underscoring Malaysia’s broader efforts to build a resilient, future-ready energy ecosystem and attract investment in next-generation energy technologies.
編者按：馬來西亞投資發展署 (MIDA) 與 ENERtec Asia 2026 合作，加速再生能源和電池儲能技術的發展，支持馬來西亞的數位經濟和淨零排放目標，展示國家能源轉型路徑圖下的投資機會。這項活動將於 6 月 3 日至 5 日在吉隆坡與馬來西亞國家能源公司 (TNB) 的能源轉型大會同期舉行，屆時將匯聚 12,000 名專業人士和 1,000 家企業，重點探討人工智慧結合能源的綜效、智慧電網、電動汽車基礎設施以及可持續能源領域的創新。
Anwar Highlights AI’s Role in Accelerating Malaysia’s Energy Transition at ETCon 2026
安華在2026年能源轉型(ETCon)大會上強調人工智慧在加速馬來西亞能源轉型中的角色
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing Malaysia’s energy transition, describing the technology as a powerful tool to improve grid efficiency, enhance renewable energy forecasting, and optimize industrial energy use. Speaking at the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26), Anwar said AI presents significant opportunities to strengthen energy systems and support the country’s sustainability ambitions. However, he cautioned that the rapid expansion of AI-driven digital economies must not outpace efforts to ensure energy remains secure, affordable, and sustainable. He also warned against excessive reliance on imported fossil fuels, noting that recent developments in the Strait of Hormuz have demonstrated how geopolitical disruptions can affect energy supply chains and energy security across ASEAN and beyond.
Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Fadillah Yusof said Malaysia’s energy transition builds on the country’s longstanding investments in infrastructure, institutions, and human capital, with the government committing RM43 billion (US$10.7 billion) to support the transition. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and highlighted the success of ASEAN’s cross-border power grid initiatives in strengthening regional energy security. Meanwhile, Abdul Razak Abdul Majid, chairman of Tenaga Nasional Berhad, said the utility is investing heavily in modernizing the national grid, upgrading infrastructure, and accelerating the adoption of cleaner energy systems. The investments also include expanding grid connectivity to accommodate rising electricity demand from data centres, supporting Malaysia’s ambitions to develop a resilient and sustainable digital economy.
https://english.news.cn/asiapacific/20260604/faf004f26c014bd4b2de9e50b3f51eed/c.html
編按：馬來西亞總理安華·易卜拉欣強調人工智慧在推動馬來西亞能源轉型中的角色，包括提高電網效率、再生能源預測和工業能源使用的優化。同時，他也警告說，在全球供應風險的背景下，不應過度依賴進口化石燃料。副總理法迪拉·優素福和國家能源公司（TNB）主席阿卜杜勒·拉扎克·阿卜杜勒·馬吉德則強調了政府承諾投入430億令吉用於電網現代化改造，透過區域合作和大量投資來滿足數據中心日益增長的需求，並支持可持續的數字經濟發展。
ENERtec Asia 2026 Highlights Energy Storage and Grid Modernisation Amid Rising AI-Driven Power Demand
2026年亞洲能源技術展聚焦人工智慧驅動電力需求成長下的儲能與電網現代化
ENERtec Asia 2026 opened at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) on June 3, bringing together energy industry leaders, policymakers, and technology providers to address growing concerns over energy security, grid resilience, and the rapid expansion of AI-driven digital infrastructure across Southeast Asia. Organised by Informa Markets Malaysia and co-hosted by TEEAM, the event is expected to attract more than 12,000 professionals from 60 countries and regions, alongside 1,000 exhibiting brands. Held under the theme “Energy & AI: The Synergy for Energy Transition,” the conference focused on the increasing pressure that data centres, cloud computing, semiconductor manufacturing, and AI-related investments are placing on electricity networks, particularly as Malaysia seeks to strengthen its position as a regional digital hub.
A key focus of the event’s flagship WATT’S NEXT conference programme was the role of renewable energy, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and grid modernisation in supporting future industrial growth. Tan Sri Abdul Rahman Mamat, Chairman of Informa Markets Malaysia, said reliable clean energy and intelligent storage solutions have become critical infrastructure for economic competitiveness and digital expansion. The opening day also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between global battery manufacturer CATL and Malaysian renewable energy developer Leaders Energy to advance large-scale energy storage and clean energy projects in the region. Supported by strategic partners including MIDA, MATRADE, UFI, and MyCEB, ENERtec Asia 2026 aims to strengthen cross-sector collaboration and accelerate the deployment of technologies needed to support Southeast Asia’s energy transition and growing digital economy.
編者按：2026年亞洲能源技術展（ENERtec Asia 2026）於6月3日在吉隆坡會展中心（KLCC）開幕，吸引了12,000名專業人士和1,000個品牌齊聚一堂，共同探討能源安全、電網韌性以及人工智慧驅動的數位基礎設施帶來增長的電力需求。本次展會以「能源與人工智慧：能源轉型的綜效」為主題，重點關注可再生能源、電池儲能和電網現代化，其中亮點包括寧德時代（CATL）與Leaders Energy簽署的合作備忘錄，旨在推進東南亞地區的大型清潔能源專案。
Invest Malaysia 2026 to Spotlight Economic Reforms, Investment Execution and Capital Market Opportunities
2026年馬來西亞投資高峰會聚焦於經濟改革、投資執行和資本市場機會
Invest Malaysia 2026, jointly organised by Bursa Malaysia, CIMB Group and Maybank, will take place on 9 June 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together policymakers, corporate leaders, investors and market participants to discuss Malaysia’s economic priorities and investment outlook. Held under the theme “From Reform to Execution: Malaysia’s Next Leap”, the conference will examine how Malaysia can strengthen its position amid geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain shifts and fiscal challenges while translating investment interest into capital formation. The event is expected to attract more than 1,500 delegates, including global fixed income, equity and private equity investors managing assets exceeding RM44 trillion. A total of 61 Malaysian listed companies with a combined market capitalisation of RM1.051 trillion will be showcased, highlighting opportunities across sectors such as semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, digital infrastructure, energy transition and the data economy.
The conference will be officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and will feature a series of high-level discussions involving government ministers, institutional investors and industry leaders. Key topics include balancing fiscal discipline with external risks, strengthening supply chain resilience, sustainable urban development, improving the pathway from investment to public listing, enhancing corporate governance, and navigating geopolitical fragmentation. Bursa Malaysia Chief Executive Officer Fad’l Mohamed said Malaysia remains a compelling gateway to ASEAN growth, supported by its strong semiconductor and advanced manufacturing ecosystem, while CIMB Group Chief Executive Officer Novan Amirudin and Maybank President and Group Chief Executive Officer Khairussaleh Ramli highlighted Malaysia’s resilience, policy clarity and growing appeal as a destination for long-term investment. The event will also include tourism and investment site visits aimed at showcasing Malaysia’s economic development corridors and growth opportunities.
編按：以「從改革到執行：馬來西亞的下一個躍進」為主題的2026年馬來西亞投資高峰會將於6月9日在吉隆坡舉行，屆時管理資產總額高達44兆令吉的1500名全球投資者齊聚一堂，共同探討半導體、先進製造、數位基礎設施和能源轉型領域的投資機會。本次高峰將展示61家上市公司，總市值達1.051兆令吉。峰會將圍繞財政紀律、供應鏈韌性、公司治理和東協成長等議題展開高層討論，並安排實地考察馬來西亞的發展走廊。
Malaysia Updates Tax and Customs Policies Amid Global Minimum Tax and E-Invoicing Reforms
馬來西亞在全球最低稅負制和電子發票改革背景下更新稅務和關務政策
Malaysia has introduced a series of tax and customs policy updates aimed at improving regulatory clarity and supporting businesses amid ongoing economic and trade developments, according to KPMG Malaysia’s May 2026 tax developments report. The Malaysian Inland Revenue Board (MIRB) released Version 7.0 of its Global Minimum Tax (GMT) Frequently Asked Questions, confirming that domestic GMT rules will automatically incorporate relevant OECD administrative guidance. The update also clarifies filing deadlines for joint ventures owned by parent entities with different financial year ends. In addition, a new stamp duty audit framework effective January 1, 2026, extends the audit review period to include the current year and the three preceding years, while excluding instruments covered under the Special Voluntary Disclosure Programme between January and June 2026.
The report also highlighted several indirect tax and customs measures. The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) has granted a temporary exemption from import duty and sales tax on goods re-imported by their original Malaysian manufacturers due to disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, with the relief remaining in place until December 31, 2026. Amendments to service tax policies introduce exemptions for brokerage services involving Bursa Malaysia-listed shares and certain Islamic finance-related fees, while health screening management service providers are now required to charge service tax from May 1, 2026. Separately, Malaysia updated its customs duties order under the ASEAN-Korea trade agreement and extended the interim e-invoicing relaxation period until December 31, 2027, for businesses with annual turnover between RM1 million and RM5 million, while providing further guidance on the definition of related companies for e-invoicing purposes.
編者按：馬來西亞2026年5月發布的稅務報告包括，更新至全球最低稅負規則，推出新印花稅審計框架，確定申報截止期限，同時將審計查帳涵蓋範圍擴大至當年及前三年。間接稅措施包括暫時進口關稅豁免、新服務稅規則、東協–韓國關稅更新，以及將小型企業電子發票優惠政策延長至2027年。
Johor Launches RM80 Billion Tech Smart City Project with Global Technology Partners
柔佛州攜手全球科技夥伴啟動800億令吉的智慧城市專案
The Johor government has unveiled the RM80 billion Johor Tech Smart City project, positioning the state as a major regional hub for high-technology investment through partnerships with leading global technology companies, including Huawei and Agibot. Covering 930.78 hectares, the development is a key component of the Maju Johor 2030 agenda and is designed to accelerate the state’s digital transformation while strengthening food security. Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the project is expected to create more than 10,000 high-quality jobs and drive growth in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), smart agriculture, and research and development. He added that the initiative will serve as a catalyst for Johor’s broader economic transformation while prioritising local talent development and workforce upskilling.
The integrated project will feature an AgTech Campus and a Knowledge AI Campus, supported by international industry leaders in technology, urban planning, and agricultural innovation. The AI campus will draw inspiration from Huawei’s smart campuses in Shanghai and Dongguan, with planning support from B+H and Surbana Jurong, while the AgTech ecosystem will include collaborations with China Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group, DAYU Irrigation, XAG, and AIRSAT. Onn Hafiz stressed that local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be incorporated into the project’s supply chain to ensure they benefit from incoming foreign investment. The announcement comes as Johor continues to record strong investment momentum, having secured RM110 billion in approved investments since January 2024, reinforcing its ambition to become a leading Southeast Asian destination for innovation, advanced technology, and food security-related investments.
編按：柔佛州啟動佔地930公頃、耗資800億令吉的柔佛科技智慧城市專案，旨在透過與華為、Agibot等全球領導企業的合作，推動數位轉型、糧食安全和高科技投資。該計畫預計創造超過1萬個職缺，打造人工智慧和農業科技園區，將本地中小企業融入供應鏈，在柔佛州1,100億令吉投資動能的基礎上，將該州定位為東南亞創新中心。
Thailand Considers VAT Increase as Part of Comprehensive Tax Reform Plan
泰國考慮將營業加值稅上調納入全面稅制改革計劃
The Thai government is evaluating a potential increase in the country’s value-added tax (VAT) rate from the current 7 percent as part of a broader tax reform strategy aimed at strengthening public finances and enhancing long-term economic competitiveness. Speaking at the Sustainability Forum 2025 in Bangkok, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said the government is reviewing measures to improve revenue generation while addressing income inequality and maintaining Thailand’s attractiveness to investors. The proposed reforms also include reducing the corporate income tax rate from 20 percent to 15 percent to align with international benchmarks and support foreign investment. Thailand’s VAT rate has remained unchanged at 7 percent for more than three decades, significantly lower than rates in many other countries, which typically range from 15 to 25 percent.
Pichai said a VAT increase could help expand government resources for healthcare, housing, education, and infrastructure development while promoting greater social equity, as higher-spending individuals would contribute more through consumption taxes. However, he acknowledged the sensitivity of any adjustment to VAT and stressed that any changes would require careful planning and broad stakeholder consultations to minimise the impact on consumers and businesses. The government is studying options for a gradual and sustainable implementation, balancing the need for fiscal reform with economic growth and social welfare objectives. The outcome of the review is expected to play a significant role in shaping Thailand’s future tax framework and broader economic development strategy.
https://thaitimes.com/thailand-s-tax-dilemma-balancing-vat-and-corporate-incentives
編按：泰國正在審議稅制改革方案，該方案可能將營業加值稅稅率從目前的7%提高，同時將企業所得稅稅率降至15%，旨在提升財政收入、促進社會公平和增強競爭力。財政部長皮猜·春哈瓦吉拉表示，任何加值稅調整都將是循序漸進的，並經過周密計劃，以平衡財政需求、經濟成長和社會福利。
Global Telecom AIoT Summit 2026 Highlights Thailand’s Growing Role in AI-Powered Digital Innovation
2026年全球電信AIoT高峰會強調泰國在人工智慧驅動的數位創新領域日益重要的角色
The Global Telecom AIoT Summit 2026, held in Bangkok, brought together government officials, regulators, telecom operators, technology companies, academics, and industry partners to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming telecommunications, smart living, and digital services. Hosted by the Telecommunications Association of Thailand (TCT), T3 Technology, and Tuya Smart under the theme “AI for All,” the summit highlighted Thailand’s ambition to become a regional hub for AI-powered living and digital innovation. Speakers emphasised that AI and IoT are evolving beyond connectivity to become critical infrastructure supporting smart homes, enterprises, healthcare, agriculture, industry, and smart cities. Industry leaders from T3 Technology and Tuya Smart outlined strategies for developing AI-powered living ecosystems, while Thailand’s telecommunications regulator stressed the importance of strong digital infrastructure, trusted data governance, and supportive regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable AIoT growth.
The summit also showcased emerging business opportunities for telecom operators as AI-driven services reshape consumer and enterprise markets. Discussions focused on AI Home platforms, smart devices, edge intelligence, cloud infrastructure, and the role of 5G in enabling new digital services. A key milestone was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between True, VNPT, T3 Technology, and Tuya Smart to expand AI Home solutions across Southeast Asia, reflecting growing regional collaboration in the AIoT ecosystem. Participants also launched the Global Telecom AIoT Promotion Initiative, calling for deeper cooperation among governments, telecom operators, technology providers, and research institutions to accelerate innovation. Concluding sessions highlighted the importance of AI trust, cybersecurity, and governance, reinforcing Thailand’s emergence as a key regional platform for AI-powered digital transformation and next-generation telecom services.
編按：以「人工智慧嘉惠全民」為主題的2026年全球電信AIoT高峰會在曼谷舉行，展現了泰國致力於成為區域人工智慧生活中心的雄心壯志，特別強調智慧家居、企業、醫療保健和智慧城市等領域的策略。高峰會的重要里程碑包括簽署區域諒解備忘錄，以拓展人工智慧家居解決方案，以及啟動全球電信AIoT推廣計劃，從而鞏固泰國在推動AIoT創新、信任和治理方面的角色。
Thailand Highlights EV and Green Mobility Ambitions at Global Future Mobility Conference 2026
泰國在2026年全球未來智慧移動大會上展現其電動車和綠色智慧移動的雄圖大略
Thailand reaffirmed its ambition to become a leading regional hub for next-generation vehicles and sustainable transportation at the Global Future Mobility Conference 2026 (GFM2026), held on 13 May and co-hosted by the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), China EV100, and GREEM. Under the theme “Toward Smart and Green Mobility,” government officials, industry executives, and experts discussed the global shift toward vehicle electrification, intelligent mobility, supply chain transformation, and clean energy development. BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi outlined Thailand’s roadmap for becoming a regional centre for electric and smart mobility, highlighting support for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric, and fuel-cell vehicles through incentives covering manufacturing, batteries, charging infrastructure, software development, subsidies, and tax reductions. He emphasised that green mobility is not only an environmental priority but also a strategic tool to strengthen energy security and economic resilience.
Industry leaders participating in panel discussions highlighted the rapid evolution of the automotive sector from traditional manufacturing toward ecosystems driven by software, data, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. Executives from BYD, Bosch, Autoliv, Mitsui Isuzu, and other companies stressed the importance of localisation, supply chain resilience, renewable energy integration, and advanced technologies such as autonomous driving and software-defined vehicles. Speakers noted that Thailand’s extensive automotive manufacturing base, established supplier network, and supportive government policies provide a strong foundation for future growth, although challenges remain in areas such as charging infrastructure, grid modernisation, and renewable energy deployment. Participants also called for greater investment in green electricity, battery technologies, smart charging systems, and AI-driven mobility solutions to position Thailand as a “Green Manufacturing Hub of Southeast Asia” while strengthening its role in the global electric vehicle value chain.
https://www.greem100.net/en/news/394
編者按：在2026年全球未來智慧移動大會上，泰國重申成為下世代汽車區域中心的願景，並闡述了其智慧綠色移動路徑圖下針對電動車、油電混合動力車、燃料電池車、電池和充電基礎設施的獎勵措施。比亞迪、博世等業界領袖強調了朝軟體驅動生態系統、供應鏈韌性和再生能源整合轉型的重要性，同時呼籲擴大對綠色電力、電池技術和人工智慧驅動移動等領域的投資，以強化泰國在全球電動車價值鏈中的地位。
Hua Hin Advances Smart City Development with AI Surveillance and Digital Services
華欣市利用人工智慧監控和數位服務來推進智慧城市發展
The Hua Hin Municipality is accelerating its Smart City initiative through a series of digital transformation projects aimed at improving public services, urban management, and resident convenience. During a recent meeting chaired by Deputy Mayor Atichat Chaisri, municipal officials reviewed progress on a comprehensive student management and care system, as well as a centralized platform designed to collect and manage operational data across municipal departments. The initiative supports Hua Hin’s broader strategy of integrating technology into public administration and enhancing service delivery through digital solutions.
Municipal officials also reported progress in upgrading existing technology infrastructure, including the development of AI-powered CCTV systems capable of motorcycle license plate detection and facial recognition to strengthen public safety and monitoring capabilities. In addition, plans are underway to install an 8×8 LED display screen at Moonlight Curve to provide residents and visitors with real-time news and public information, with procurement currently in progress. The Smart City programme reflects Hua Hin Municipality’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to create a more efficient, connected, and responsive urban environment.
編按：華欣市政府正推動其智慧城市計劃，利用數位化平台進行學生管理、整合營運數據，並採用人工智慧驅動的閉路電視監控系統來提升公共安全。該計畫還包括安裝大型LED顯示螢幕，用於即時發佈公共訊息，體現了華欣市致力於打造更緊密聯通與迅速反應城市環境的努力。
Thailand Breaks into Global Top 50 Startup Ecosystems for First Time in Six Years
泰國六年來首度躋身全球前50大創業生態系之列
Thailand has entered the global Top 50 startup ecosystems for the first time in six years, climbing to 49th place in the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026 published by StartupBlink. The country now ranks fourth in Southeast Asia and recorded a startup ecosystem growth rate of 62.6 percent, making it one of the fastest-growing startup hubs in the region. Thailand was also recognised as ASEAN’s leading ecosystem for MedTech startups, ranking eighth globally in the sector. At the city level, Bangkok advanced to 76th place worldwide and fourth in Southeast Asia, while securing the top regional position for robotics and 17th globally. Emerging startup hubs including Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, and Nakhon Pathom also demonstrated strong growth, reflecting the expansion of innovation activities beyond the capital.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yodchanan Wongsawat said the achievement reflects Thailand’s sustained efforts to build a stronger innovation ecosystem through collaboration among government, academia, and industry. He highlighted startups as a key driver of the digital economy, high-skilled job creation, and future economic growth. Meanwhile, Krithpaka Boonfueng noted that Thailand recorded the fourth-fastest growth rate among the world’s top 50 startup ecosystems and ranked second in the Asia-Pacific region for startup community activity. The National Innovation Agency (NIA) plans to further strengthen the ecosystem through initiatives supporting deep technology sectors such as AI, robotics, climate technology, food technology, and medical technology, while developing the Ari Innovation District as a flagship innovation hub aimed at positioning Thailand as a leading global startup destination.
編按：泰國時隔六年重返全球創業生態系前50強，位列全球第49位，東南亞第4位。曼谷的全球排名晉升至第76位，並在機器人領域領先東南亞。泰國副總理約查南·翁薩瓦和國家創新署強調，新創企業是經濟成長的關鍵驅動力，並計劃透過阿里創新區等舉措，強化人工智慧、機器人、氣候、食品和醫療科技等深科技領域。