MIDA Partners ENERtec Asia 2026 to Advance Malaysia’s Energy Transition and Digital Economy
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.
Editor’s Note: MIDA has partnered with ENERtec Asia 2026 to accelerate renewable energy and battery storage development, supporting Malaysia’s digital economy and net‑zero ambitions while showcasing investment opportunities under the National Energy Transition Roadmap. The event, co‑located with TNB’s Energy Transition Conference from June 3–5 in Kuala Lumpur, will gather 12,000 professionals and 1,000 companies to highlight AI‑energy synergies, smart grids, EV infrastructure, and innovations in sustainable energy.
Anwar Highlights AI’s Role in Accelerating Malaysia’s Energy Transition at ETCon 2026
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
Editor’s Note: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted AI’s role in boosting Malaysia’s energy transition by improving grid efficiency, renewable forecasting, and industrial energy use, while cautioning against overreliance on imported fossil fuels amid global supply risks. Deputy PM Fadillah Yusof and TNB chairman Abdul Razak Abdul Majid emphasized RM43 billion in government commitments, regional cooperation, and heavy investments in modernizing the grid to meet rising demand from data centres and support a sustainable digital economy.
ENERtec Asia 2026 Highlights Energy Storage and Grid Modernisation Amid Rising AI-Driven Power Demand
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.
Editor’s Note: ENERtec Asia 2026 opened on June 3 at KLCC, drawing 12,000 professionals and 1,000 brands to address energy security, grid resilience, and the rising electricity demand from AI-driven digital infrastructure. The event, themed “Energy & AI: The Synergy for Energy Transition,” spotlighted renewable energy, battery storage, and grid modernization, with highlights including a CATL–Leaders Energy MoU to advance large-scale clean energy projects in Southeast Asia.
Invest Malaysia 2026 to Spotlight Economic Reforms, Investment Execution and Capital Market Opportunities
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.
Editor’s Note: Invest Malaysia 2026, themed “From Reform to Execution: Malaysia’s Next Leap,” will convene 1,500 global investors managing RM44 trillion in assets on June 9 in Kuala Lumpur to explore opportunities in semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and energy transition. Showcasing 61 listed companies worth RM1.051 trillion, the event will feature high-level discussions on fiscal discipline, supply chain resilience, governance, and ASEAN growth, alongside site visits to highlight Malaysia’s development corridors.
Malaysia Updates Tax and Customs Policies Amid Global Minimum Tax and E-Invoicing Reforms
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.
Editor’s Note: Malaysia’s May 2026 tax report introduced updates to Global Minimum Tax rules, a new stamp duty audit framework, and clarified filing deadlines, while extending audit reviews to cover the current and three preceding years. Indirect tax measures include temporary import duty exemptions, new service tax rules, ASEAN‑Korea customs duty updates, and extended e‑invoicing relief until 2027 for smaller businesses.
Johor Launches RM80 Billion Tech Smart City Project with Global Technology Partners
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.
Editor’s Note: Johor has launched the RM80 billion Johor Tech Smart City project spanning 930 hectares, aimed at driving digital transformation, food security, and high‑tech investment through partnerships with Huawei, Agibot, and other global leaders. Expected to create over 10,000 jobs, the development will feature AI and AgTech campuses, integrate local SMEs into supply chains, and build on Johor’s RM110 billion investment momentum to position the state as a Southeast Asian innovation hub.
Thailand Considers VAT Increase as Part of Comprehensive Tax Reform Plan
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
Editor’s Note: Thailand is reviewing tax reforms that could raise VAT from 7% while lowering corporate tax to 15%, aiming to boost revenue, equity, and competitiveness. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said any VAT adjustment would be gradual and carefully planned to balance fiscal needs with growth and social welfare.
Global Telecom AIoT Summit 2026 Highlights Thailand’s Growing Role in AI-Powered Digital Innovation
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.
Editor’s Note: The Global Telecom AIoT Summit 2026 in Bangkok, themed “AI for All,” showcased Thailand’s ambition to be a regional hub for AI-powered living, highlighting strategies for smart homes, enterprises, healthcare, and smart cities. Key milestones included a regional MoU to expand AI Home solutions and the launch of the Global Telecom AIoT Promotion Initiative, reinforcing Thailand’s role in driving AIoT innovation, trust, and governance.
Thailand Highlights EV and Green Mobility Ambitions at Global Future Mobility Conference 2026
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
Editor’s Note: Thailand reaffirmed its goal to be a regional hub for next‑generation vehicles at the Global Future Mobility Conference 2026, outlining incentives for EVs, hybrids, fuel‑cell vehicles, batteries, and charging infrastructure under its smart and green mobility roadmap. Industry leaders from BYD, Bosch, and others stressed the shift toward software‑driven ecosystems, supply chain resilience, and renewable integration, while calling for greater investment in green electricity, battery tech, and AI‑driven mobility to strengthen Thailand’s role in the global EV value chain.
Hua Hin Advances Smart City Development with AI Surveillance and Digital Services
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.
Editor’s Note: Hua Hin Municipality is advancing its Smart City programme with digital platforms for student management, operational data integration, and AI‑powered CCTV to enhance public safety. Plans also include installing a large LED display for real‑time public information, reflecting the city’s push to build a more connected and responsive urban environment.
Thailand Breaks into Global Top 50 Startup Ecosystems for First Time in Six Years
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.
Editor’s Note: Thailand has entered the global Top 50 startup ecosystems for the first time in six years, ranking 49th overall and fourth in Southeast Asia, with Bangkok rising to 76th globally and leading the region in robotics. Deputy PM Yodchanan Wongsawat and the NIA highlighted startups as key drivers of growth, with plans to strengthen deep tech sectors like AI, robotics, climate, food, and MedTech through initiatives such as the Ari Innovation District.