Bi-Weekly News Update: June 15 to June 28

Malaysia Launches Digital 2030 Plan to Become Regional AI and Innovation Hub; KLIMS 2026 Showcases Malaysia’s Accelerating Shift Towards Electric Mobility; AT&S Announces Up to €2 Billion Expansion of Malaysia IC Substrate Facility to Meet Surging AI Demand; Malaysia Accelerates Renewable Energy Transition Through Large-Scale Solar and Grid Modernisation Initiatives; Malaysia’s New EV Policy Set to Accelerate Local Manufacturing and Reshape Market Dynamics; Thailand Expands Smart City Network to 37 Certified Cities, Targets 105 by 2027; Thailand Unveils ‘Made-in-Thailand’ Chip Vision, Targets ASEAN Semiconductor Leadership; Thailand’s Parliament Approves Five International Trade Agreements to Expand Global Market Access; Thai Industry Group Calls for Comprehensive Strategy to Build Semiconductor Sector; Experts Highlight AI Infrastructure Boom as New Growth Driver for Thailand and Asia; Thailand Revamps Vocational Education to Support EV, AI and Advanced Manufacturing Industries; Thailand Unveils Net Zero Roadmap with Focus on Renewable Energy, EVs and Energy Market Reforms.

Malaysia Launches Digital 2030 Plan to Become Regional AI and Innovation Hub

馬來西亞啟動“2030數位計畫”,力爭成為區域人工智慧和創新中心

Malaysia has launched the Malaysia Digital 2030 (MD2030) action plan for 2026–2030, marking a strategic shift from being a technology consumer to becoming a producer of home-grown digital innovation. Launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the plan targets increasing the digital economy’s contribution to GDP to 30% by 2030, creating 500,000 high-value digital jobs, generating RM4.5 billion in public sector savings through digitalisation, and delivering 95% of government services fully online. The Digital Ministry has been designated as the lead agency to drive the country’s ‘Towards an AI Nation 2030’ agenda.

MD2030 is built around seven strategic pillars—government, economy, infrastructure, talent, society, trust and security, and innovation—under a whole-of-government approach. The initiative seeks to strengthen digital infrastructure, including data centres, cloud computing and smart cities, promote “Made by Malaysia” digital products, accelerate technology adoption in high-growth sectors, and develop a robust research, development and commercialisation ecosystem. The government said the plan aims to position Malaysia as a regional digital champion and an AI-driven economy where data and intelligent systems become strategic assets supporting inclusive and equitable growth.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/06/1475792/pm-launches-md2030-action-plan-national-agenda-towards-ai-nation-watch

編按:馬來西亞發布了「馬來西亞數位2030」(MD2030)計劃,旨在從技術消費者轉型為生產者,目標是到2030年將數位經濟佔GDP的比重提升至30%,創造50萬個數位就業職位,並實現95%的政府服務數位化。該計畫植基於七大戰略支柱,透過加強基礎建設、本地創新和包容性成長,將馬來西亞定位為區域數位領導者和人工智慧驅動型經濟體。

KLIMS 2026 Showcases Malaysia’s Accelerating Shift Towards Electric Mobility

2026年吉隆坡國際電動車展(KLIMS 2026)展示馬來西亞加速向智慧移動轉型的趨勢

The Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2026, held from 12 to 21 June at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), highlighted Malaysia’s rapid transition towards electric mobility under the theme “Beyond Mobility.” The event featured a range of futuristic and production-ready electric vehicles (EVs), including the XPeng X2 flying car and the newly launched XPeng X9 all-electric luxury MPV. National automakers also showcased their latest EV developments, with Proton unveiling the e.MAS 7 Premium Plus and Perodua presenting modular concepts capable of supporting battery-electric, hybrid and range-extended electric vehicles. Premium EV maker Zeekr officially launched the facelifted Zeekr X in Malaysia and previewed upcoming luxury models, while global manufacturers such as Toyota and Great Wall Motor displayed EV and hybrid technologies tailored for the Malaysian market.

Beyond vehicle launches, KLIMS 2026 also highlighted the growing importance of charging infrastructure and home readiness as EV adoption accelerates. Industry discussions underscored the need for dedicated home charging solutions, particularly for larger battery-equipped vehicles, and pointed to increasing demand for higher-capacity charging systems and certified electrical installations that comply with national safety standards. The exhibition demonstrated that Malaysia’s EV transition is evolving beyond vehicle ownership towards the development of a broader ecosystem encompassing charging infrastructure, smart energy solutions and next-generation mobility technologies.

編按:2026年吉隆坡國際車展(KLIMS 2026)以「超越移動」為主題,展示了馬來西亞向智慧移動快速轉型的趨勢,展出了包括小鵬X2飛行車、寶騰e.MAS 7以及Perodua模組化概念車等未來主義電動車。此次展覽強調,電動車的普及應用已不再局限於車輛本身,而是涵蓋了充電基礎設施、智慧能源解決方案以及下一代移動技術。

AT&S Announces Up to €2 Billion Expansion of Malaysia IC Substrate Facility to Meet Surging AI Demand

AT&S宣布投資高達20億歐元擴建其馬來西亞的積體電路基板工廠,以滿足不斷增長的人工智慧需求

Austrian IC substrate and printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer AT&S announced on 15 June 2026 that it will invest between €1.5 billion and €2.0 billion (approximately US$1.74 billion–US$2.32 billion) to expand high-end IC substrate production at its Kulim, Malaysia complex. The expansion is supported by long-term procurement commitments from semiconductor company AMD and at least one other leading technology firm, ensuring demand-backed financing for the project. Following the announcement, AT&S shares surged nearly 30%, and the company raised its FY2026/27 outlook, forecasting revenue growth of 45–55%, higher profitability and increased capital expenditure of €1.0 billion–€1.2 billion.

The investment underscores the growing importance of IC substrates as a critical bottleneck in the AI hardware supply chain, where advanced processors and AI accelerators require sophisticated ABF substrates to support high-performance computing applications. The expansion also reinforces Malaysia’s emergence as a major global hub for semiconductor back-end operations, with Kulim already hosting advanced facilities operated by companies such as Intel, Infineon and ASE. Industry observers noted that the additional capacity is expected to alleviate supply constraints over the longer term, although tight substrate and advanced PCB supply conditions are likely to persist through 2027 as AI-driven demand continues to outpace available manufacturing capacity.

https://www.atlaspcb.com/news/news-ats-malaysia-ai-substrate-2b-expansion-2026

編按:AT&S宣布將在馬來西亞居林投資15億至20億歐元擴建其高端積體電路基板生產線,該案獲得AMD和其他科技公司長期採購承諾的支持,推動股價上漲30%,強化2026/27財政年度的業績展望。此舉凸顯了馬來西亞在半導體後端製造領域日益重要的地位,緩解全球基板供應緊張的局面。然而,由於人工智慧需求激增,預計供應吃緊的局面將持續到2027年。

Malaysia Accelerates Renewable Energy Transition Through Large-Scale Solar and Grid Modernisation Initiatives

馬來西亞透過大規模太陽能和電網現代化計劃加速再生能源轉型

Malaysia’s energy transition is gaining momentum in 2026 as renewable energy (RE) becomes increasingly central to the country’s economic competitiveness and sustainability agenda. Under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), the government is accelerating the deployment of large-scale solar (LSS) projects while maintaining energy security and grid reliability. Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has emerged as a key enabler of this transition, having built 4.3 gigawatts (GW) of installed renewable energy capacity, accounting for more than one-third of Malaysia’s total RE capacity last year. Recent announcements at the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26) included renewable energy supply agreements, battery storage projects and next-generation solar developments, underscoring the shift from policy ambition to project implementation.

The transition is also being supported by investments in grid modernisation, battery energy storage systems (BESS) and customer-focused renewable energy solutions. TNB highlighted projects such as the Hybrid Hydro Floating Solar (HHFS) development at Kenyir, which combines 785MWp of floating solar generation with a 1,190MWh BESS, and a planned 750MWp ground-mounted solar project paired with a 1,000MWh BESS. The utility is also expanding renewable energy access through initiatives including the Green Electricity Tariff (GET), the Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS) and accelerated electric vehicle charging infrastructure deployment. Industry observers noted that continued collaboration between government agencies, utilities and businesses, coupled with investments in grid infrastructure and renewable generation, will be essential to building a resilient and commercially viable clean energy ecosystem in Malaysia.

https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2026/06/19/tnb-shaping-malaysias-re-future/?__cf_chl_f_tk=rmE9L_xCim6fS5lNJXZCGGGiUcHXt1SLYarqN435XSs-1782903429-1.0.1.1-mUlnzSb4iEdtWiTpxq8otMEdp_3.Lx_YS.EDDrzF57Y

編按:在國家能源轉型路徑圖(NETR)的指引下,馬來西亞的能源轉型正加速前進。馬來西亞國家能源公司(TNB)正大力推動大規模太陽能、電池儲能和再生能源等專案,這些項目已佔該國再生能源裝置容量的三分之一以上。諸如混合漂浮式太陽能與電池儲能系統計畫、企業可再生能源供應計劃以及電動汽車充電設施擴建等舉措,凸顯了馬來西亞正從政策層面轉向構建兼具韌性與商業可行性的清潔能源生態系統。

Malaysia’s New EV Policy Set to Accelerate Local Manufacturing and Reshape Market Dynamics

馬來西亞新電動車政策將加速本地製造業發展並重塑市場格局

Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) market is entering a new phase as revised government policies seek to transform the country from an import-reliant EV market into a regional manufacturing hub. According to Kenanga Research in a note dated 23 June following its visit to the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2026, new regulations taking effect on 1 July 2026 will require fully imported EVs to have a minimum cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value of RM200,000 and a minimum motor output of 180kW to qualify for Franchise Approved Permits (APs). The research house said the policy would effectively phase out affordable imported EVs, potentially creating a two-tier market where premium imports dominate the high-end segment while mass-market demand shifts towards locally assembled vehicles.

Kenanga Research noted that the policy is expected to benefit local manufacturers and automakers with assembly plans in Malaysia, including Perodua, Proton and several Chinese EV brands through local production partnerships. The firm also observed a significant increase in EV prominence at KLIMS 2026, with EVs accounting for more than half of showcased vehicles compared with about one-third in 2024, while plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) also gained market share. Despite rising consumer interest, charging infrastructure remains a key challenge, with Malaysia having 5,719 charging points as of December 2025, equivalent to only 57% of its 10,000-charger target. The research house added that substantial growth in EV volumes will be required for Malaysia to achieve the National Energy Transition Roadmap’s target of a 20% EV market share by 2030.

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編按:20267月起實施的新規限制價格親民的低價進口電動車,顯示馬來西亞的電動車市場正向本地製造轉型。新規有利於高端進口車型以及寶騰、第二國產車廠和中國合作夥伴在本地組裝的車型。儘管消費者對電動車的興趣日益濃厚,且電動車在2026年吉隆坡國際車展(KLIMS 2026)的參展車輛中佔比超過一半,但充電基礎設施仍然落後,僅有5719個充電樁,這給馬來西亞實現2030年電動車市場份額達到20%的目標帶來了挑戰。

Thailand Expands Smart City Network to 37 Certified Cities, Targets 105 by 2027

泰國認證的智慧城市擴增至37個,目標是2027年達到105

Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) has expanded its national smart city programme, with 37 municipalities across 16 provinces now receiving official smart city certification following the recognition of “Phuket Silicon Valley” and the renewal of certifications for 16 existing cities. Acting Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong said certification is awarded only to cities that have achieved more than 50% of their development benchmarks. The certified cities include Phuket Silicon Valley, Khon Kaen, Wangchan Valley in Rayong, Chiang Rai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Bangkok, among others across the country. The government aims to increase the number of certified smart cities to 105 by 2027.

The initiative forms part of Thailand’s broader Thailand 4.0 digital transformation strategy, which leverages technologies such as big data, smart mobility, energy efficiency, public safety systems and digital governance to improve urban living standards. To support long-term implementation, the government has established a dedicated sub-committee to oversee policy development and project planning in line with Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy. Officials said the programme also complements Thailand’s cloud-first policies, artificial intelligence ecosystem development and partnerships with global technology firms, reinforcing the country’s ambitions to become a regional digital hub and promote sustainable, data-driven and inclusive urban development.

https://thaitimes.com/thailand-accelerates-smart-city-drive-37-certified-target-set-at-105-by-2027

編按:泰國已將其智慧城市計畫擴展到16個府的37個市鎮,包括普吉島矽谷和曼谷,目標是2027年達到105個獲得認證的智慧城市。作為泰國4.0策略的一部分,該計畫利用大數據、人工智慧、智慧移動和雲端優先等政策,推動永續、包容和數位驅動的城市發展。

Thailand Unveils ‘Made-in-Thailand’ Chip Vision, Targets ASEAN Semiconductor Leadership

泰國發布「泰製晶片」願景,目標是成為東協半導體產業的領導者

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has unveiled an ambitious plan to position Thailand as ASEAN’s hub for advanced semiconductor manufacturing and establish a “Made-in-Thailand” chip industry by 2050. As part of the initiative, the government has established the National Semiconductor and Advanced Electronics Policy Committee to formulate strategy, coordinate public and private sector efforts, and accelerate the development of the country’s semiconductor ecosystem. The government aims to attract approximately THB2.5 trillion in investment and develop more than 230,000 highly skilled workers to support the sector’s long-term growth.

The initiative forms part of Thailand’s broader economic transformation strategy, which seeks to strengthen competitiveness by promoting future industries such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, robotics, clean energy and digital technologies. Officials said the semiconductor push is intended to move Thailand beyond traditional electronics manufacturing and establish higher-value activities across the electronics supply chain. Industry observers noted that the strategy could reinforce Thailand’s position as a regional manufacturing and technology hub while supporting investment attraction, job creation and long-term economic resilience.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3270710/anutin-unveils-chip-hub-vision#google_vignette

編按:泰國啟動「泰國製造」半導體的國家級產業計劃,旨在2050年前生產「泰國製」的半導體。在新成立的國家半導體和先進電子政策委員會的領導下,吸引2.5兆泰銖的投資,並培訓23萬名技術勞工。作為其更廣泛的經濟轉型的一部分,該計劃力求從傳統電子產業超越升級至半導體、人工智慧、機器人和清潔能源等高附加價值領域,從而鞏固泰國作為區域技術中心的地位。

Thailand’s Parliament Approves Five International Trade Agreements to Expand Global Market Access

泰國國會批准五項國際貿易協定,以擴大全球市場准入

Thailand’s Parliament has approved five major international trade agreements aimed at expanding the country’s market access in Europe and South Asia and strengthening its position in global trade. The agreements include the Thailand–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Free Trade Agreement and the Thailand–Bhutan Free Trade Agreement, among others, and are expected to create new opportunities for exports, investment and economic cooperation. The government said the deals form part of broader efforts to diversify trade partnerships and enhance Thailand’s competitiveness in international markets.

The newly approved agreements are expected to provide Thai businesses with improved access to overseas markets while supporting foreign investment inflows and deeper economic integration with partner countries. Officials said the trade pacts align with Thailand’s strategy to strengthen economic resilience and position the country as a regional trade and investment hub. Industry observers noted that the agreements could benefit key sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture and services, by reducing trade barriers and facilitating greater cross-border economic activity.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/3273046/parliament-passes-new-trade-deals?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=personalized-push

編按:泰國國會批准五項重要貿易協定,包括與歐洲自由貿易聯盟(EFTA)和不丹的協定,以擴大市場准入並增強全球競爭力。這些協定旨在促進出口、吸引投資,將泰國定位為區域貿易中心,嘉惠製造業、農業和服務業等關鍵產業。

Thai Industry Group Calls for Comprehensive Strategy to Build Semiconductor Sector

泰國工業團體呼籲制定全面策略發展半導體產業

Thailand’s semiconductor ambitions will require far more than investment incentives and capital inflows, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), which has called for a comprehensive strategy to develop the country’s chip ecosystem. The industry body said Thailand must focus on building a strong foundation that includes skilled talent development, research and development capabilities, supply chain integration and closer collaboration between industry, academia and government to support the sector’s long-term competitiveness.

The FTI noted that semiconductors present a significant opportunity for Thailand to move up the electronics value chain and establish itself as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing. However, industry representatives cautioned that sustained policy support, workforce development and technological capabilities will be essential to attract high-value investments and create a resilient semiconductor ecosystem. The recommendations align with Thailand’s broader efforts to promote future industries and strengthen its position in the global technology and electronics supply chain.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3272549/fti-says-chip-sector-needs-more-than-investment

編按:泰國工業聯合會(FTI)敦促泰國在投資獎勵之外,還應致力培養技術人才,提升研發能力,整合供應鏈,並加強產官學研合作,以建構一個具有韌性的半導體生態系統。半導體產業提升了泰國在電子產品價值鏈的地位,持續的政策支持和技術發展對吸引高價值投資和確保長期競爭力至關重要。

Experts Highlight AI Infrastructure Boom as New Growth Driver for Thailand and Asia

專家指出,人工智慧基礎設施的蓬勃發展將成為泰國和亞洲新的成長動力

Financial and investment experts have identified artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure as one of Asia’s most significant long-term growth opportunities, with Thailand emerging as a potential regional data centre hub. Speaking at the Thailand Investment Forum 2026, industry specialists said the rapid deployment of AI infrastructure, supply chain reshoring and energy security investments are creating a major structural investment cycle across Asia. They noted that global technology companies are increasingly directing capital expenditure towards hardware infrastructure in East and Southeast Asia, while Thailand is benefiting from growing foreign direct investment as capacity constraints emerge in neighbouring markets.

Experts said Thailand’s rise as a data centre destination is expected to stimulate investments across multiple sectors, including industrial estates, specialised construction, power generation and water infrastructure required to support hyperscale facilities. They also highlighted Thailand’s advanced manufacturing capabilities in printed circuit boards (PCBs) and photonics, which supply critical components to the global semiconductor industry. The developments underscore Thailand’s growing importance in the regional AI and digital infrastructure ecosystem and position the country to benefit from increasing demand for advanced technologies and supporting infrastructure.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/40067990

編按:在2026年泰國投資論壇上,專家強調人工智慧基礎設施是亞洲經濟成長的主要驅動力,隨著外商投資的增加,泰國正崛起為極具潛力的區域資料中心中心。預計這一趨勢將促進工業園區、營建、電力和水利基礎設施等領域的發展,同時充分發揮泰國在半導體和光電等先進製造業的優勢。

Thailand Revamps Vocational Education to Support EV, AI and Advanced Manufacturing Industries

泰國改革技職教育以支持電動車、人工智慧和先進製造等產業

Thailand is repositioning its vocational education system to become a key talent pipeline for electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced manufacturing industries, particularly in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). According to a report published by The Nation on 26 June, technical colleges are redesigning programmes to focus on high-voltage battery systems, EV drivetrain diagnostics, robotics and automated assembly in response to growing investments in data centres, EV supply chains and advanced electronics. The country is also expanding dual-education models that combine classroom learning with hands-on industry experience to produce skilled technicians, factory supervisors and applied engineers.

The report noted that AI is increasingly being integrated into vocational training through courses in applied AI, computer vision and predictive maintenance, enabling graduates to address practical manufacturing challenges such as defect detection, energy optimisation and reducing production downtime. Thailand is also investing in train-the-trainer programmes to equip instructors with modern digital skills and broaden the impact of these initiatives across educational institutions. The efforts align with Thailand’s National AI Strategy and the EEC’s ambitions to develop a digitally capable workforce and strengthen the country’s competitiveness in future industries.

https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/tech/40067905

編按:泰國正在改革其技職教育體系為電動車、人工智慧和先進製造培養人才。東部經濟走廊的技術學院將專注於發展電池系統、機器人技術和自動化組裝。整合人工智慧課程、雙元製教育模式和訓練培訓師計畫,旨在打造一支契合泰國國家人工智慧戰略和未來產業發展目標,具備數位化技能的勞動隊伍。

Thailand Unveils Net Zero Roadmap with Focus on Renewable Energy, EVs and Energy Market Reforms

泰國發布淨零排放路徑圖,聚焦於再生能源、電動車和能源市場改革

Thailand has outlined a new energy transition strategy aimed at achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening energy security and economic competitiveness. The roadmap includes a revised Power Development Plan (PDP 2026) that targets increasing the share of clean energy to around 60% by 2050 through accelerated deployment of renewable energy sources, including solar, wind and biomass. The government also plans to promote rooftop solar adoption, expand household electricity buy-back schemes and advance energy market liberalisation to encourage private sector participation and investment in clean energy technologies.

The strategy also incorporates a gradual transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) and biofuels to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels while safeguarding Thailand’s automotive industry and manufacturing competitiveness. Officials said the reforms are designed to create a more resilient and sustainable energy system capable of supporting future industries, including digital infrastructure and data centres. Industry observers noted that the roadmap signals Thailand’s commitment to balancing decarbonisation objectives with energy affordability, investment attraction and long-term economic growth.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40067871

編按:泰國在《2026年能源發展規劃》(PDP 2026)下推出了新的能源轉型策略,旨在透過擴大太陽能、風能、生質能和屋頂光伏發電的普及以及開放能源市場,到2050年實現60%的清潔能源佔比。路徑圖也提倡使用電動車和生質燃料,以減少對化石燃料的依賴,同時兼顧脫碳、能源價格可負擔性、吸引投資和長期經濟成長。