Malaysia Retailer I Vol 9 I No 1 I TDOX Dato’ Choi Wei Yee

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Tel: +603-5882 4333 Fax: 1 700 810 950 Website: www.mrca.org.my PRESIDENT Shirley Tay Bee Koo SUNRIDER INTERNATIONAL (M) SDN BHD IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Datuk Seri Garry Chua ROTOL FOOD-CHAIN (M) SDN BHD DEPUTY PRESIDENT Dato’ Liew Bin BRILLIANT MERCHANDISING SDN BHD VICE PRESIDENTS Datuk Seri Dr. Chai Kee Kan KK SUPERMART & SUPERSTORE SDN BHD Valerie Choo Yoke Shiem SIMPLY AWESOME SDN BHD Ken Phua Cheng Chuen BENTLEY MUSIC SDN BHD Sharan Jethanand Valiram VALIRAM HOLDINGS SDN BHD SECRETARY GENERAL Jit Singh A/L Santok Singh IRONHORSE ASIA SDN BHD DEPUTY SECRETARY GENERAL Raymond Woo Hai Shiang VENDPAYS SDN BHD TREASURER GENERAL Dato’ Winnie Lim Yoke Chin SOLUTION RISK CONSULTANTS SDN BHD DEPUTY TREASURER GENERAL Dato’ Alex Wong Che Sing HAP SENG STAR SDN BHD COUNCIL MEMBERS Dr. Affendi Dahlan DR GROUP HOLDINGS SDN BHD Alex Chong Weng Wah SAKURA KRISTAL SDN BHD Brian Tham Jee Ping WATATIME (M) SDN BHD Christine Tan Gaik Lin CT F&B HOLDINGS SDN BHD Kevin Lee Guan Keong MAXIS BERHAD Liang Foo Kuan BIG ONION FOOD CATERER SDN BHD Michael Liew Fong Tzer MARRYBROWN SDN BHD Seak Thean Pow BAGUS CURTAIN SDN BHD William Tang Chee Weng THE STORE CORPORATION BERHAD Jordan Ng Kim Leong BANNERKING SDN BHD Datuk Henry Yip Choong Hung DRAGON-I RESTAURANT SDN BHD Aiveen Wong Choy Ching CHIN SWEE FOOD SDN BHD

TRUSTEES OF MRCA FOUNDATION Dato’ Tay Sim Kim Foundation Founder Chairman Datuk Lee Hwa Cheng Foundation Chairman 2020-2022 Dato’ Eddie Choon Trustee Datuk Albert Chiang Trustee Datuk Seri Nelson Kwok T. T., JP Trustee Dato’ Liaw Choon Liang, JP Trustee Datuk Seri Garry Chua Trustee BOARD OF ADVISORS Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Leong Hoy Kum GROUP MD, MAH SING GROUP BHD Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Barry Goh Ming Choon CHAIRMAN, MCT BHD Tan Sri Dr Lim Wee Chai CHAIRMAN, TOP GLOVE CORPORATION BHD Tan Sri Datuk Ter Leong Yap EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, SUNSURIA BHD Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Tang Yeam Soon MANAGING DIRECTOR, THE STORE CORPORATION BHD Dato’ Dr. Jennifer Low, JP GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, QUILL GROUP OF COMPANIES PRESIDENT’S ADVISORS Dato’ Sri Dr. How Kok Choong CO-CHAIRMAN, VETTONS SDN BHD Dato’ Vincent Choo Kok Leong URBAN IDEA SDN BHD LEGAL ADVISORS Dato’ Dr Manjit Singh MANJIT SINGH SACHDEV, MOHAMMAD RADZI & PARTNERS Datuk Ringo Low RINGO LOW & ASSOCIATES HONORARY AUDITORS Dato’ Sri Raymond Liew Lee Leong MCMILLAN WOODS Datin Yap Shin Siang YYC GST CONSULTANTS SDN BHD

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CONTENTS / VOL. 9 NO. 1 15

What’s in Store for Retail in 2021?

DEPARTMENTS 1

Glory Page

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President’s Message

COVER STORY 4

TDOX Asia – Pioneering Bespoke Wellness Dato’ Choi Wei Yee, Founder and Managing Director of TDOX Asia, shares her company’s journey in providing preventive and regenerative therapies to Malaysians and customers across the region.

TRENDING 12 Work Together to Chart a Path ON THE COVER

Towards Recovery

14 Bridging Online, Offline Retailing

MRCA EVENTS / NEW MEMBERS 16 MRCA Women’s Division Health Talk: Only One Test to Say I’m Ok

18 5G, The New Experience 22 MRCA Youth Virtual Talk: Santan Dato’ Choi Wei Yee Founder & Managing Director, TDOX Clinic

Restaurants – Switching the Game

23 New Members

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5G, The New Experience

DIGITALISATION 28 Technology – Retail Future in Digital (RFiD)

MARKET INFO 32 Malaysians Prefer e-Wallets and Debit Cards as Payment Methods

33 Selling More with Multi Sales Channel

34 Ikano Centres Ignites Creative Spark, An Initiative to Transform Its Meeting Place in Batu Kawan

36 Zeek Raises US$10 Million Funding Despite Market Adversity

President’s Message Dear members, Over the last one year, the Malaysian retail industry faced unprecedented circumstances in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With all the movement restrictions instituted and the need to comply with the SOP, the retail industry has experienced significant adverse business impact.

Since February this year, we have Shirley Tay been involved in the President, 2020-2022 initiatives of Industries Malaysia Retail Chain Unite in support of Association the continuous effort carried out by the government in aiding industries to cope with the scourge caused by the pandemic for the purpose of recovery and stabilisation. On this note, I am pleased to share that fellow retail industry leaders have had many engagements, dialogues and conferences with the Ministry of International Trade & Industry (MITI), KPDNHEP, Polis Diraja Malaysia and Kementrian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) senior officers on the clarity of the enforcement of SOPs in the retail sector.

We were also able to engage with the Ministry of Finance to propose tenant relief assistance through financial assistance for shopping mall owners and landlords, waiver of statutory payment for businesses, targeted tax incentive for retail and tourism spending and protecting businesses through the Temporary Measures for Reducing the Impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Act 2020 (“COVID-19 Act”), among others. Our sincere appreciation to officials of MITI, Ministry of Finance, KPDNHEP, Police Diraja Malaysia and KKM for arranging the constructive sessions.

At MRCA, we believe that collaboration and unity are vital in addressing challenges, hence we have been partnering with our members to deliver insightful information and knowledge to all our members through webinars such as “Time to Soar”, “Health Talk: Only One Test to Say I am Ok”, and MRCA A Good Deed A Week, to name a few.

At a recent virtual conference organised by the Star

Media Group, themed “The Smart Retail: Powering Nation’s Digital Economy”, I had the opportunity to share insights with prominent retail industry players and regulators on the dynamics of the industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As consumers, especially the Gen Z, revolutionise consumer trends, we as retailers, have to pivot our game plan and innovate to stay relevant to customers and the markets we serve.

Meanwhile, I would like to congratulate our 10 members who were among the top winners at The Star Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA) 2020.

They won a total of 21 awards in various categories.

I would also like to thank Dato’ Sri Dr How Kok Choong, Co-chairman of Vettons Sdn Bhd for hosting the MRCA CEO Get-together recently. It was an opportunity for our members to collaborate with Vettons, an e-commerce company, to expand their reach towards more digital-savvy consumers and leverage on Vettons’ online assets, expertise and features.

The MRCA Women Division committee members recently made a RM12,700 contribution in cash and kind to Home of Peace in line with MRCA’s “A Good Deed A Week” charity campaign, initiated by the MRCA CHARITY COMMITTEE, to spread love and good cheer to the needy. I would like to thank many of our members who have generously contributed to this campaign.

The Women Division has initiated the Single Mother Development Programme to continue helping single mothers to improve their lives. The aim of this CSR project is to help single mothers to be selfsufficient and independent by providing them the necessary coaching & training on mindset, knowledge and skills job opportunities.

We have scheduled the launch of our F&B Division on 25th May. More information will be released in due course. We are also planning to organise several major events such as the MRCA Council Installation Night, CEO Night, MRCA Anniversary Dinner and Charity Golf.

Meanwhile, we have also revamped the MRCA website to ensure that important announcements and relevant news in all areas of interest will reach the members in a timely manner.

As we all work together towards the restoration of business and the economy in Malaysia, let’s continue to keep abreast with the latest developments, especially in technology such as online retail platforms, e-pos, customer tracking tools and predictive analytics (Big Data).

Enjoy the latest issue of our publication and I look forward to seeing all of you at our events. Stay safe!

Cover Story

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TDOX Asia – Pioneering Bespoke Wellness Dato’ Choi Wei Yee, Founder and Managing Director of TDOX Asia, shares her company’s journey in providing preventive and regenerative therapies to Malaysians and customers across the region.

railblazing the wellness industry with state-ofthe-art preventive and regenerative therapies, TDOX Asia provides world-class health and wellness solutions comprising the highest quality medical products and services.

Established in late 2019, TDOX Asia, where TDOX stands for Transformational Development of X-Factors, is the brain child of Dato’ Choi Wei Yee, a seasoned entrepreneur with lots of experience in the Malaysian and ASEAN markets. Her inspiration to pioneer this bespoke wellness hub was her own health and the results she experienced with preventive and regenerative therapies.

“I realised that work and stress had taken a toll on my health and overall wellbeing. So I started searching for holistic wellness and health solutions that could restore my overall wellness. After much research, I found cellular therapy, and I started stem cell therapy. My health drastically improved and I saw great results,” she beams.

Since then there has been no stopping Dato’ Choi – she went on to establish TDOX Asia and has not

T

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looked back since. She testifies, “My mum had early stage cancer and cellular therapy helped her.”

EXPERIENCE HOLISTIC WELLNESS AT TDOX ASIA Realising the importance of health, overall wellness and the need for quality of life, Dato’ Choi set out to provide unsurpassed wellness services and products to enhance health and beauty as well as to inspire self-confidence in customers.

“We strongly believe in optimal vitality and prevention rather than cure. At TDOX, we make youth, vitality and longevity possible through a bespoke personalised health and anti-ageing experience that is especially custom-designed for our customers,” she explains.

“Our unique 6-step approach includes assessment of our customers’ health through a comprehensive blood test; diagnosis by certified medical practitioners; detoxification; optimisation through preventive and regenerative therapies; revitalisation with boosters, growth factors and other services; and prevention and maintenance with follow-up sessions,” adds Dato’ Choi.

Located in Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, at Level 5 of Equatorial Plaza, TDOX Asia is at the centre of the city’s most soughtafter and busiest business district, surrounded by international-chain hotels and tourism hotspots. The company aims to join the ranks of Malaysia’s premium health tourism providers and aspires to deliver superior world-class health and wellness services and products. The company also has a cGMP-certified R&D laboratory producing top quality regenerative products.

“Our hope is that Malaysia will soon achieve international standards in the wellness industry, making the country a top destination of choice for beauty and health services and products,” says Dato’ Choi.

TDOX ASIA’S INNOVATIVE WELLNESS SOLUTIONS Apart from its core products which are cellular therapy and aesthetics, TDOX Asia presents a wide array of products and services that include health screening, cardiac healthcare, personalised nutrition and diet, women’s and men’s health, DNA tests, and virtual gym.

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Cover Story

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“With the growth and advancement in health and beauty science, we hope to introduce new technologies to our customers.”

– Dato’ Choi, Founder and Managing Director, TDOX Asia

“Some of our most popular products and services include the E-ECP, Emsella, Cellular Therapy and customised supplements. Also, our centre is equipped with state-of-theart FDA approved medical devices,” shares Dato’ Choi.

“We have professional, experienced and certified medical practitioners to attend to our customers,” she adds.

AWARD-WINNING SOLUTIONS TDOX Asia has received numerous certifications and awards for excellence. The company has created its own protocols and developed more than 200 SOPs to maintain the cGMP status. The lab Criteria for Cleanroom Grade is in accordance with the requirements of ISO 14644.

TDOX’s state-of-the-art laboratory sports the highest international accreditation, namely; • The National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB) Certificate of Compliance • National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) • Certification of Compliance, NEBB • Certificate of Current Good Manufacturing Practice Regulation Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

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(cGMP) enforced by The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) • International Organization for Standardization ISO 14644.

CONTINUOUS RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Recognising the value in research and development (R&D), TDOX Asia is constantly innovating and researching new techniques and approaches to health and beauty.

The company is collaborating with various local research universities such as University of

Malaya, University Teknologi MARA, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Universiti Sains Malaysia.

TDOX Asia has more than 3,000 studied cases by its team of scientists specialising in cellular and regenerative medicine.

“With the growth and advancement in health and beauty science, we hope to introduce new technologies to our customers.

We will continue to focus our R&D efforts in cellular therapy,” says Dato’ Choi.

Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

Cover Story

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Cellular Immunox Therapy

Immunox therapy is a promising breakthrough in cellular therapies which attacks and kills malignant cells, infectious cells and pathogens by using natural killer cells. Immunox therapy is said to provide a host of benefits such as: • Boosting immunity • Minimising cancer risk • Regulating poor health • Improving sleep quality • Improving stamina and energy • Maintaining vitality • Defending the body against infections • Preventing disease and sickness How does Immunox Work?

Age-associated changes in natural killer (NK) cell population and functions are directly attributed to the risk of several diseases and infections. Since the human body cannot make active NK cells in a large quantity, TDOX Asia takes these cells from the customer’s own blood, activates and expands them in a sterile laboratory and re-infuses them into the person’s blood.

Immunox therapy uses an individual’s own Activated NK cells that can detect, target and kill senescent cells, tumours and pathogens in the body, thus minimising the risk of cancer and preventing disease.

Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

Cellular Regenox Therapy

Regenox therapy is a regenerative cellular therapy that can be used to replace, repair and regenerate diseased cells using Mesenchymal stem cells that are derived from Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are one of the main members of the stem cell family and are a preferred choice in regenerative therapy because of their therapeutic safety and wide array of use.

The Regenox Therapy uses stem cells which are the mother cells that have the capacity to regenerate and replicate itself, and to differentiate into many other specialised cells and tissues in the body. Stem cells repair the body by providing new cells to replace the ones which are damaged by normal wear, disease and injury.

Regenox Therapy has been clinically proven to: Improve cardiac health • Improve kidney function • Enhance respiratory function • Reduce insulin dose for the treatment of • diabetes • Increase bone density and reduce the progression of osteoporosis • Improve recovery in stroke, brain & spinal cord injuries • Lower remissions & slow progression of auto immune diseases Benefits of Regenox Therapy The therapy is targeted, and will go directly to the damaged tissue for migration and differentiation and accurately repair and re-build the damage to achieve the most efficient therapeutic effect. TDOX Asia’s signature high-quality Regenox therapy rolls back the biological clock and is said to present the following benefits: • Improves stamina • Improves sleep quality • Restores the functions of vital organs and tissues • Refreshes memory & mental acuity • Rekindles libido & erectile dysfunction • Recharges energy • Replaces dead and damaged cells • Reduces chronic inflammation • Rejuvenates skin and improves hair quality • Restores knee cartilage integrity • Boosts immune system • Reduces post-menopausal symptoms • Regenerates cells for anti-ageing effects

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Advanced Aesthetics

Aesthetic dermatology is a treatment for the skin, hair and body that is meant to enhance appearance to look best at every stage of life.

TDOX Asia’s aesthetic physicians provide the best, customised treatment plans based on customers’ needs, facial features, skin & hair condition, for youthfulness from head-to-toe.

TDOX Asia provides personalised aesthetic dermatological treatments that are: • Effective & long-lasting • Safe & minimally invasive • Mostly show immediate improvement • Natural-looking outcome • Using FDA approved products Products and services provided include: • Botox • Dermal filler • Thread lift • Mesolipolysis • HIFU • Lasers • Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) • Stem Cell Antiageing • Hair/scalp regeneration • Skin boosters

Testimonies

DATO’ ABD HAMID B. MOHD ALI, 65 “After undergoing 35 sessions on E-ECP treatment, I feel that my stamina has improved. I don’t feel tired even after my normal golf game.

Prior to this treatment, I needed a good rest after a round of golf. The quality of sleep is better, perhaps due to good blood circulation which E- ECP has helped to improve.”

DATIN KASMAH HASSIM, 64 “I was suffering from body ache every morning when I wake up. After a few sessions of E-ECP therapy, my pain has lessened. Now I feel more energetic and alert. Thanks TDOX!”

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Trending

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Work Together to Chart a Path Towards Recovery The government has been urged to engage with and work together to chart a path towards recovery, as many sectors are in need of assistance, said Industries Unite, a grouping of more than 110 representatives from various industries. MRCA is one of the members of Industries Unite. ur members look forward to a meeting with the Prime Minister soonest to raise these and many other issues and look to have purposeful dialogue with the relevant ministries,” the group said in a statement recently.

While Industries Unite agreed that the safety, health and wellbeing of the people was paramount and lauded efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, it added that “we regret that there is no clarity on the government’s plan for the economic wellbeing of the business community during this period”.

The group also welcomed the rigorous testing and targeted enhanced movement control order in certain areas with high case numbers, but other areas where

“O

Shirley Tay

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the risk is low must be allowed to re-open, it said.

“Businesses that (must) comply with mandatory testing face an added burden on their cash flow.

We ask that they be provided with resources and funds to be in compliance,” added the group.

Industries Unite also listed several requests to the government such as a six-month moratorium on loans and financial obligations as well as increased support for worker wage subsidies, among others.

When MCO 2.0 was imposed, the Industries Unite MCO 2.0 urged the government to let them have a say before standard operating procedures (SOPs) for businesses are drawn up. In a virtual media conference on January 30, Industries Unite MCO 2.0 group coordinator Datuk Irwin Cheong said the group

Tan Sri Teo Chiang Kok.

came to a general consensus that they want engagement with the authorities.

They said that the government’s instructions with regard to midstream and downstream businesses were not clear.

The retail industry leaders had a conference meeting in February this year with the Ministry of International Trade & Industry (MITI), KPDNHEP, Polis Diraja Malaysia and Kementrian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) senior officers on the clarity of enforcement of SOPs. MRCA President Shirley Tay told The Star said after the first MCO last March, at least 70% still had jobs to return to. “During the recovery MCO, 50% to 60% businesses managed to return. However, in the second MCO this time, business dropped a great deal.

Datuk Wira Ameer Ali Mydin.

Datuk Irwin Cheong.

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MRCA JOINS INDUSTRIES UNITE, A BROAD COALITION REPRESENTING THEIR INTERESTS

The coalition, comprising trade, business and professional associations under the banner of Industries Unit, advocates for a continuous effort among the government authorities in aiding to cope with COVID-19 recovery and stabilisation plan.

Industries Unite recently launched a public service initiative with hopes of bringing down the country’s current COVID-19 infection rate. The public service initiative features a series of advertisements displayed on electronic billboards along major roads in the Klang Valley.

The digital advertisements are of messages such as “Kita Teguh, Kita Menang”, “PATUHILAH SOP”, “Mencegah COVID-19 bersama-sama” and a Chinese New Year greeting.

MRCA called on its members to support the current campaign by Industries Unite by displaying the poster at the front of their business premises. Those who have displayed the poster at their business premises, are requested to send photos of the display to MRCA for record purposes.

“What we want is for the government to engage us prior to the SOP is released. For example, optical businesses were not allowed to open initially but after complaints, they were allowed to,” she told the daily.

She added that some shops, which had permission to operate during the MCO, were told to close. “We retailers have at least 200,000 jobs. Please engage us before deciding on the SOP,” said Shirley Tay. Shirley Tay and Tan Sri Teo Chiang Kok, President of the Malaysia Shopping Malls Association and a member of Industries Unite, both voiced their concern over the hefty fines of RM10,000 for individuals and RM50,000 for businesses who purportedly violate the movement control order.

“The government must come out and give us confidence and a reason to buy in to what they need us to comply with and not use a big stick which creates

undue fear and panic for no positive advantage,” said Tan Sri Teo. He added that businesses were now in the “intensive care unit” (ICU) and were running losses, and even if they were allowed to operate, their capacity was 40% of usual operations because of the SOPs. The group also requested that the government assist business owners (especially the small and micro businesses) on possible subsidies, zero or no interest loans and moratorium on existing financial commitments for at least six months from banks and financial institutions.

“We need to keep businesses and supply chains going. The recent shortage of bread is a good example of how this situation can turn chronic if we don’t pay attention to businesses and the supply chain. It’s a total ecosystem,” said the group.

Meanwhile, Datuk Wira Ameer Ali Mydin, President of Bumiputera Retailers Organisation which is also a member of Industries Unite and Industries Unite MCO 2.0 was

quoted in The Malaysian Reserve recently that retail businesses had dropped about 90% during the first week of MCO 2.0 compared to before it came into force on Jan 13.

“Although shopping complexes are allowed to open, the retail sector is taking a drastic hit. People are not coming out to shop despite strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) in place.”

Datuk Wira Ameer Ali, who is also the Managing Director of Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd, told the newspaper that the drop in sales is also attributed to the suspension of the apparel segment. He added that in general, 70% of tenants at shopping complexes are usually made up of the apparel segment, while the remaining 30% are taken up by the food segment.

“The initial MCO in March 2020 did not go down as bad as this one,” he said.

He added that during the Conditional MCO (CMCO) period, retail business recovered and rebounded by 50% to 60%.

In comparison, Ameer Ali said MCO 2.0’s impact on the retail sector has exceeded that of last year’s MCO. “Business dropped by 90% within the first week of MCO 2.0, partly because the apparel segment was ordered to be closed.”

He told the newspaper that during the CMCO period, retail business recovered and rebounded by 50% to 60%.

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Trending

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Bridging Online, Offline Retailing In March 2021, the Star Media Group Sdn Bhd organised a two-day live virtual conference themed The Smart Retail: Powering Nation’s Digital Economy.

The conference featured prominent speakers and panelists from the retail industry, including MRCA President Shirley Tay, on the dynamics of the industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. uring the event, panelists and speakers expounded on the evolution of the retail landscape and its rapid progress into digitalisation fueled by the pandemic situation.

With movement restrictions in place and limited access to retail outlets, consumers were forced to adopt online shopping as the next best solution to accessing goods.

Lazada Malaysia’s Chief Marketing Officer Diana Boo, noted that the online shopping platform saw a 300% increase in new sellers on-board last year, via its Pakej Kedai Pintar stimulus plan, aimed at assisting local SMEs to sell online.

D

FashionValet & The dUCk Group Co-founder Vivy Yusof said that 2020 was a very challenging year and her companies had to be very smart in product pivots, to cater to the changed consumer landscape.

Recognising the evolving business landscape, the Malaysian government has also lent its support through Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). According to MDEC CEO, Surina Shukri, MDEC introduced initiatives to help SMEs overcome the digital divide such as its nationwide campaign under the government’s Penjana stimulus plan partnering private sector companies to onboard microSMEs onto online sites. MDEC

What’s in Store for Retail in 2021? Power Panel (from left): Assistant Professor of Marketing, Asia School of Business & international Faculty Fellow at MIT Willem Smit, ADA’s Regional Head of Business Insights Vittorio Furlan, Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Secretary General Datuk Seri Hj. Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad, MRCA President Shirley Tay and The Food Purveyor’s CEO Geoff King.

Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

also rolled out its eUsahawan programme, to assist Malaysian youths and micro entrepreneurs in digital entrepreneurship.

To-date, MDEC has helped train 365,000 people - 65% of them are female entrepreneurs.

The conference also featured a session entitled “What’s in Store for Retail in 2021?” moderated by Willem Smit, Assistant Professor of Marketing at Asia School of Business. During the session, Shirley Tay, President of MRCA pointed out that Generation Z (those born from the late 1990s to early 2010s) are changing the retail arena.

“Generation Z are very knowledgeable, well informed, and many of them are financially secure thanks to parents who have fewer children,” she said.

Shirley Tay also stressed that retailers need to have omnichannel strategies to reach customers, and that “connectivity and engagement with consumers has to be the top priority”.

The Food Purveyor CEO Geoff King noted that the food retail industry had seen a much bigger growth in online commerce in 2020. “We’ve had to adapt very fast to meet that need. And where we used to pride ourselves

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by having a smiling butcher, explaining about the cuts of meat and how to cook it – now, we have to think about how to do that online,” As for government incentives for digitalisation, Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Secretary General Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad pointed out that there are many funds available within Government Ministries and agencies to support various sub sectors within industries.

“That is something that industry players should try to benefit from. The government is always willing to listen to new ideas and new ways on how the retail industry can be further assisted,” he said.

Key to the success of online retailing is automation and live chats to assist customers, said AirAsia Chief Customer Happiness

Officer Adam Geneave. He said that an enormous challenge over the last 12 months for the low cost carrier’s customer support teams was the increase in the volume of cases. As such, the company had to quickly pivot the way they were talking to their customers.

“We focused on increasing automation to give customers the ability to self-serve, primarily through the AVA chatbot. We have seen much better customer satisfaction. At the end of the day, customers want this fast interaction,” he said.

Ninja Van Malaysia Chief Operating Officer Lin Zheng supported this move stating that due to the MCO, the logistics company pushed more customers to its live chat team.

Love, Bonito Malaysia Country Director Joan Yeoh shared how the company tested and trialled

store-to-door services. The company provided the option for customers to pick up stuff from the stores and enjoy delivery.

Meanwhile, QSR Brands Group Chief Information Officer CK Chong shared that topping his list was acquiring the right technology and recruiting talent.

While calling for more local talent development, QSR’s strategy is to work with technology partners from overseas.

As companies resort to remote work arrangements, Heineken Malaysia Digital and Technology Director Janina Vriesekoop said she preferred a hybrid of remote working and work on-premises, while AEON Retail CEO Shafie Shamsuddin said the future would see a mix of offline and online retail.

“It is important for us to envision that in the future, 30 to 40% of our workforce will continue to work from home or from everywhere.

The digital transformation will continue to be important. We need to continue to build our infrastructure,” he said.

The event also featured a presentation by Retail NZ Chief Executive Greg Harford entitled “Retailing in New Zealand through the lows and highs of Covid-19”, about how the country’s retailers digitalised rapidly during the pandemic.

Harford estimated that presently, about 17% of retail sales by volume are done through e-commerce channels. He added that New Zealand consumers will still want to go to physical shops “to touch and feel the goods that they want”.

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MRCA Event

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MRCA Women’s Division Health Talk: Only One Test to Say I’m Ok In line with its commitment to “Empower. Educate. Eliminate”, MRCA Women’s Division conducted a virtual health talk entitled “Only ONE Test To Say I’m Ok”.

eld on 6 February 2021, the health talk featured distinguished speakers, Dr Evelyn Ho, Consultant Clinical Radiologist from ParkCity Medical Centre and Professor Dr Woo Yin Lin, Consultant Gynaecological Oncology from University Malaya Medical Centre.

The session was held in conjunction with World Cancer Day.

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CANCER SCREENING In addressing cancer screening, Dr Evelyn said that people need t o be aware of the many invisible risks, the biggest of which is people’s tendency to overestimate danger and underestimate their ability to cope.

She stressed that this in turn paralyses people to either take no action at all or excessive action, which is harmful. She reminded the audience that with fake news spreading rapidly in today’s digital era, people have to be careful in digesting information.

Dr Evelyn explained that in order to stay healthy, there needs to be a proper understanding of public health. The concept of prevention in public health encompasses three levels: • LEVEL 1 The first level is predisease, which calls for the adoption of healthy choices, avoiding risk factors and taking vaccinations.

• LEVEL 2 The second level is during the disease, which calls for the prevention and reduction of the severity of the disease through early detection.

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• LEVEL 3 The third level is postdisease, which is limiting long-term impairment whereby a patient can return to as normal a life as possible through counselling, rehabilitation, and pain relief, among others.

As much as people are afraid of cancer, Dr Evelyn stressed that the main cause of death in Malaysia is not cancer. In fact, heart disease is the highest cause of death among Malaysians, followed by pneumonia.

She shared that between 2012 and 2016, the top cancers among Malaysians included colorectal cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, lymphoma and nasopharynx cancer.

In explaining screening, Dr Evelyn said, “Screening is testing for the presence of a disease or a condition with risk markers.”

Dr Evelyn warned that although screening reveals high genetic risk or family history of a certain disease, it does not mean an individual will definitely suffer from the same disease as well.

The predictive value of tests may be low, which means that it often cannot predict accurately.

In speaking about breast cancer, Dr Evelyn explained that the biggest risk of breast cancer is being female.

The majority of women with breast cancer have no known risk factors.

She said that a mammogram can save one’s life, even when a woman feels that nothing is wrong with her breasts.

She stressed that the earlier the cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. However, she cautioned that not all changes in the breast are

cancer, and that very early cancer cannot be felt or is situated deep in the breast, hence early detection is key.

She advised women aged 40 and above to consider doing regular mammograms every two years.

She also cautions women to carry out regular self-examination and to consult a doctor if there are any irregularities.

ELIMINATING CERVICAL CANCER On the topic of eliminating cervical cancer, Professor Dr Woo explained that there are currently tools to eliminate this form of cancer.

She said that there is no effective screening for ovarian cancer today, and the way to look out for signs and symptoms is to be aware of changes in one’s own body, such as pain and bloating, among other symptoms. She explained that in the case of womb cancer, the main symptom is abnormal bleeding.

“The cervix is a very small portion and part of the uterus.

When you screen for cancer of the cervix it does not screen for the risk of uterine or ovarian cancer,” said Professor Dr Woo. She added that cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women globally. It can be eliminated through intensified vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV), screening and treatment.

HPV, she stated, is a very common viral infection that is passed between people through

17 skin-to-skin contact and is not necessarily a sexually transmitted disease. She added that most people, both male and female, would have been exposed to HPV at some point in their lives. However, HPV can cause cancer in people with low immunity or when the immune system is down. The process of progression to become cancerous takes 10 to 15 years.

Testing for this type of cancer can be done through a pap smear where a sample of cells are taken from the cervix. However, this test is not 100% accurate and there is a possibility of sampling errors occurring. “Hence, regular pap smears should be done so that cells can be taken regularly from the cervix for examination, thus reducing error.” Currently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) advocates HPV testing to test the presence of high risk cancer-causing HPV. In summarising the steps needed to be taken to prevent cervical cancer, Professor Dr Woo advised for girls below the age of 15 to be vaccinated against HPV. The next step, she said, is to ensure that every woman gets at least two HPV tests in their lifetime – twice or every five years maximum. This should then be followed up with appropriate medical care, if there are any irregularities found.

Professor Dr Woo stated that more than 450 million doses of HPV vaccine have been given worldwide, mainly to young girls. Currently, there are three types of vaccines in the market and these vaccines target different types of high-risk cancer-causing HPV. She explained that in order for pap smears to be effective, a woman has to have at least 15 pap smears throughout her lifetime, as the test is imperfect. “If the test misses a problem at any one time, the next pap smear may pick up an abnormality.

“But the fact is, having an invasive

test with a pelvic examination is associated with fear, embarrassment and inconvenience. Sometimes we think, I don’t need it, it won’t happen to me. Even if you are postmenopausal, you should have your screening tests as recommended” said Professor Dr Woo. She explained that realising the inaccuracy of pap smears, WHO recommends women to undergo HPV testing which is more accurate.

In HPV testing, screening is now done with a very simple swab, and only needs to be done twice in the lifetime of a woman.

Professor Dr Woo explained that it is now possible for women to selftest using swab test kits after which the results are sent to their mobile phones. To a question from the floor, Professor Dr Woo explained that for HPV vaccines no boosters are required.

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The New Experience

MRCA recently held a webinar on 5G technology in which panellists exchanged their views about 5G, the retail industry and omni-channel experience, as well as its impact on life and businesses as the fifth-generation cellular broadband technology takes root rapidly.

Date: 18th December 2020 Panellists 1. Andrew Gordon, GM – Mobility Solution Architects of Telstra Enterprise (AUST) 2. Chai Ming Ching, 5G & Private Network Practice Lead of Maxis Berhad 3. Vincent So, Chairman of Hong Kong Retail Technology Industry Association (HK) 4. Jacob Isaac, Managing Director of Fusionex Group Moderator: Raymond Woo, MRCA Deputy Secretary-General

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n his opening remarks, Stan Singh, MRCA Academy Deputy Chancellor said that as early as 2020, the industry was all abuzz about 5G technology including phones, networks and capabilities in business. “5G readiness differs from country to country in terms of the adoption rate, deployment, government and community attitudes,” he added.

With technology at its best today, it has mobilised and empowered employees to work from home.

“All of us are now either working from home or from an office that’s enabled by a network infrastructure.

Malaysia is about 4G and with fibre

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internet at home, we are very excited to understand from industry experts what members and retailers need to do in getting ready over the next 10-12 months for this technology,” said Raymond.

Andrew Gordon, GM, Mobility Solution Architects of Telstra Enterprise (AUST) In his sharing, Andrew explained that 5G has three transformation characteristics, which include; • Enhanced mobile broadband, which provides faster data and greater connectivity for people on the move.

• Ultra-reliability and low latency, with the potential to revolutionise

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modern industrial processes and applications including supply chain, agriculture, manufacturing and business.

• Massive Machine-to-Machine communications, unlocks the potential of the network for real-time control of connected devices, facilities management, industrial robotics, vehicle to vehicle communications and safety systems, autonomous driving and safer networks.

5G has enabled various capabilities that were once not viable. Andrew goes on to state that in a 5G world, mission-critical tasks can be enabled through 5G without bandwidth and latency concerns, and the constraints of having to run fibre optic cables.

According to Andrew, a high level comparison of the spectrum available, reveals that it goes from 600Mhz-3.5GHz to 3.5GHz-35GHz –

offering a wider range of frequency.

Latency goes from 30 milliseconds to a fraction of a millisecond. “For example, when your phone makes a request to a website, it takes 30 milliseconds on average in 4G, but in 5G it takes less than 1 millisecond to make it to the other end. Area traffic, capacity, peak data rates which include the amount of space that you can cover is increased by 10 times,” he elaborated.

He explained that there are two emerging network capabilities that include Network Slicing and Beam-forming. Network Slicing offers the ability to specify priority of traffic within the mobile network.

“For instance, you might have a consumer that is using their device for watching a YouTube video or you might have a business that wants to handle robotics. You might want to prioritise the company that’s actually doing

robotics on that network over the person that’s just watching a YouTube video,” he added.

He went on to elaborate that Beam-forming, on the other hand, is the ability to not just broadcast the signal, but to be specific about where it goes and what it allows to be done. With this, frequency and performance can be better controlled.

Andrew also mentioned that 5G gives users the ability to execute network function virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking, such as the ability to define a network virtually rather than physically which allows for a great deal of flexibility during rollouts. In addition, 5G, if used as the primary means of wireless connectivity, dispenses the need for waiting for fibre optic cables to be run, establishing connectivity for popup stores really quickly. Merchants Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

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5G enables all of this through fast updates of images and video feeds in real-time.

set up stores within a day once they have got all the furniture moved in, with internet going live within an hour, courtesy of the minimal infrastructure required for 5G. In his advice on the adoption of 5G by MRCA members, Andrew explained that retailers and businesses should consider transforming their businesses over the next couple of years using augmented reality, virtual reality, and edge computing alongside state-ofthe-art security systems.

Chai Ming Ching, 5G & Private Network Practice Lead of Maxis Berhad, Head of IoT Connectivity Solutions, Enterprise at Maxis Chai explained that 5G technology promises; • Data transfers that are at least 10 times faster than current speed when using mobile phones; • Low latency – real-time feedback without the slightest lag as currently experienced; • The ability to connect many items – up to a million items per square kilometre including from shelves, chillers crates, to even the tools in your shop; and, • Prioritizing your critical applications, and ensuring that your Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

mission-critical data is highly secured when transferring over the internet.

She explained that brick and mortar stores have essentially remained the same for the past 20 years, offering the same experiences, in that, customers walk in, browse through the shelves, and then pay for their purchases. During the pandemic in Malaysia, many retailers have gone online to keep their businesses going. With the roll-out of the vaccine, the million-dollar question is how to get customers back to the brick and mortar stores?

“Alibaba addressed this in Hong Kong by merging the online experience with the physical store experience using digital screens.

They use a “smart mirror” for customers to browse through the product selections. It’s builtin with artificial intelligence that recommends matching items and captures customer preferences in real-time as they browse,” she added.

5G enables all of this through fast updates of images and video feeds in real-time which include facial recognition and customers’ behaviour when browsing through the store, whereby the system draws on information of past purchases quickly, and analysing

matches, before the customer leaves that screen. “With the right recommendations made to customers, higher sales potential is achieved, ultimately increasing the topline,” shared Chai.

5G is able to reduce conventional overheads for businesses today, such as rent and wages, and still maintain the right showcase for customers.

For instance, Ikea has started its virtual reality showroom where customers are able to plan their kitchen or living room in real-time using VR goggle.

“VR displays provide safer browsing for retail of high value goods such as jewellery and watches, through use of virtual replicas,” she said.

Chai shared that with 5G business owners can analyse real-time video feeds of customers moving around the store. The AI matches the body language and behaviour to large databases of shoppers’ and shoplifters’ behaviour.

Doing so ensures retailers have a high probability of detecting and preventing theft instead of just having a purely reactional response to it.

She advised MRCA members to digitalise their businesses by engaging in e-commerce, setting

21 up online payment systems, digitalizing inventory and focusing on online sales.

Vincent So, Chairman of Hong Kong Retail Technology Industry Association (HK) The Hong Kong Retail Technology Industry Association (RTIA) started in 2003, amidst the SARS outbreak, as a platform to support retailers and technology partners, to leverage on each other in generating value.

For the past 17 years, RTIA has supported technological adoption by industry, and is currently a proponent of 5G solutions, seeking to help the Hong Kong government broaden 5G coverage in industry.

RTIA has organised many activities which champion innovative solutions, including VIP tours to Alibaba’s headquarters in Hangzhou, awards, and lately, many webinars.

The association has affiliations with the Hong Kong government and over 40 industry associations.

According to Vincent, retailers are using the latest technology of coordinated cameras and 5G connectivity to generate a heat map of frequently visited areas in the store, detect customers’ emotions and profiling, as well as collect anonymous storefront data such as conversion rate based on footfall.

Vincent pointed out that surveillance footage, when fed into advanced retail analytics systems, can return real-time information that increases revenue per store.

In such a scenario, a VIP customer entering the store, might trigger an automated SMS or WhatsApp messaging system that delivers content targeted at building up interest in a certain product, such as vouchers or special discounts.

“The system would then process the profile of the customer and inform sales staff about products the customer is interested in and those which they are predicted to buy, so the staff are able to formulate a

timely and effective sales approach,” explained Vincent.

Vincent said that most mobile operators in Hong Kong have been aggressively pitching 5G solutions to the retail community and consumers alike. “In F&B, restaurants are using 5G connectivity to empower robots to serve food to customers in the same building. Hotels are also ripe for the same level of disruption, such as room service by machines,” he added.

Jacob Isaac, Managing Director of Fusionex Group “5G is merely infrastructure. It is the enabler for all communication devices, for people, machines, sensors, and everything that has to do with data. It will bring us up to speed with the latest information and datasets,” explained Jacob.

“There is no denying that analytics and AI will definitely be one of the biggest winners. User groups are leveraging on 5G because it solves a big challenge of information transportation and delivery of data or insights,” he added.

Jacob shared that the world already had a taste of AR (augmented reality) technology with Pokémon Go when it took the world by storm back in 2016 and 2017. In the same way, VR (virtual reality), immerses the wearer of a unique visor in a whole new world.

Adapting these technologies into retail, empowers businesses with tremendous digital content, and the ability to create any object or simulate any experience that can lead users to visualise products in their personal space.

He also explained the uniqueness of Mixed Reality (MR), an application that is very immersive, and combines visuals with action. “You will not only be able to see virtual content that overlays with the physical world, but also interact with these virtual objects,” he shared.

With MR, the user can now

“grab” a device, drop a piece of hardware, as well as touch and feel with digital sensations, essentially blurring the lines between the real and virtual worlds.

In as much as 5G has tremendous advantages, a few challenges to consider include the affordability of such technology, budgetary constraints for such technology in the face of financial difficulties during the pandemic, mindset in adopting the technology, and the availability of skilled talents to successfully implement 5G. Jacob encouraged businesses to work with partners because “technology adoption is a feat with challenges at every corner”.

“Beyond “doubling” customers’ in-store experience with virtual insight overlay, AR can be used to monitor product sales, stock movement, and stock replenishment – reliable and real-time 24/7 because of 5G. Paired with the right software, retailers can expect optimised inventory, with stock-out predictions and automated triggers for replenishment, with automated input data from visitor video analytics,” Jacob elaborated.

Jacob mentioned that Fusionex has also launched virtual exhibition platforms complete with features, such as product demos brochures, chat rooms, video meetings, AR/ VR, search calendars, talks and seminars, which are “gaining strong popularity because they are more interactive, more efficient, and richer in content and analytics”.

Fusionex’s clientele has reported a 300% increase in leads from such events, improved with auxiliary services, that include AI powered marketing.

In advising MRCA members on 5G adoption, Jacob stressed, “Do it now so you’ll have more time to improvise your platforms, and appreciate the full learnings and the full experiences of 5G when it is fully implemented and deployed.”

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MRCA Youth Virtual Talk: Santan Restaurants – Switching the Game Catherine Goh, General Manager of Santan Restaurants shares valuable insights on her experience in the F&B industry in Asia. n 9 February 2021, MRCA Youth held a virtual talk that featured Catherine Goh, who shared about AirAsia’s foray into the F&B market as a franchise operator through the brand Santan Restaurants. In explaining the inspiration behind the name, Catherine says that “Santan” was chosen to represent the brand as it is the main ingredient in nasi lemak, the key enhancer of flavour in this staple Malaysian dish.

Santan Restaurants as a business was inspired by Tan Sri Tony Fernandes who took steps to expand and pivot AirAsia’s ecosystem beyond just flights. “It all started back in 2015. Previously, our flight brand was called AirAsia Café, and we served cold snacks that we bought off the shelves,” Catherine explains. However, in 2015, AirAsia decided to rebrand and Santan Restaurants was born.

“The first year of our rebranding was a huge success. We achieved the highest historical revenue per pack in that year because of a huge rewriting exercise, and standisations across the Group,” she shares. In 2018, Santan served more than 600 million passengers, and in 2019, customers began demand for takeaway. In December of that year, AirAsia opened its first flagship outlet in MidValley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur. Subsequently, a second outlet was opened in Sunway Pyramid Shopping Centre.

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In September 2019, Santan received its franchise license, after which they opened their first franchise restaurant in KL Sogo. In a span of three months, seven franchise restaurants were opened in the Klang Valley.

For 2021, there are plans to open 50 outlets in Malaysia, China, the UK and Thailand. Business was affected due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, AirAsia’s mobile application was instrumental in addressing this challenge.

Catherine stresses that AirAsia has always been about people and through this business model, the company was able to give young entrepreneurs the chance to own a business. “For us, it’s not just about selling the franchise, we want to make sure we give people a chance to grow, and to teach and equip them with business skills,” she says.

Catherine explains that many of the franchisees are young entrepreneurs, and AirAsia has helped them grow through this journey in entrepreneurship. “We are not in this business just for profits, we are in the business to grow the country’s economy together, and that’s our mandate,” she explains.

As a young leader in the F&B business, Catherine believes that it is important for her to be hands-on and to get her hands ‘dirty’ as she needs to understand the business inside out. Catherine reminisces that she faced a lot of skepticism when she first started driving the business as this has never been done before in the aviation industry. “It’s the innovative blood that we have in AirAsia – we just have to do it and make it happen,” she quips.

In sharing key business success factors, Catherine explains that AirAsia has the advantage of a big database of customers to upsell, and at a very low cost as well. Santan’s marketing strategy was also innovative, and the whole business concept of an airline going into the F&B franchise business model was also a sensational approach.

At the same time, Santan ensured that customers receive superior quality of food at a low cost.

In ensuring continuous supply of raw materials, AirAsia has multiple suppliers, while several kitchens are in place to ensure steady and uninterrupted operations.

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VALUEDESIGN MALAYSIA SDN BHD

Valuedesign combines Prepaid, Marketing and Cashless into one solution.

Headquartered in Japan and being public listed, Valuedesign is Japan’s No. 1 prepaid system with 800 brands, 70,000 stores and 15 years of brand reliability.

Valuedesign provides in-house Prepaid Card (E-Wallet) for customer loyalty, branding and target marketing.

The prepaid system encompasses points, coupons & bonus cashback. This includes E-Gift Cards, E-Coupons, Mobile Apps and CRM system with customer analytics to increase customer visitations. Clienteles includes KFC, Pizza Hut, Costa Coffee, Apollo Pharmacy, Benetton in India; Fairprice in Singapore and Trial, public-listed supermarket in Japan on AI Technology. “We are bringing this same Japan system to Malaysia,” said Country Manager Lisa How. On the joining MRCA, she added, “We want to help retailers to stay competitive in this online e-commerce era. Valuedesign Prepaid Card as a payment method

EZZYBUCKS SDN BHD Vanilla Crepe offers one of the best sweet tooth fixes in Malaysia. To date , its 30-layer crepes have won the hearts of people in the country and more importantly, it has maintained the classic yet exquisite taste through the use of an original French recipe but homegrown in Malaysia.

The company’s Founder & CEO Nelson Liew, set up the company and its brand in 2014. Today, it has 28 outlets nationwide and has been officially inducted into the Malaysia Book of Records as “The Largest Mille Crepe Chain in Malaysia”.

Vanilla Crepe now aims to have a presence in all the states before moving on to make its mark on the global stage.

On joining MRCA, Jesvinder Singh, General Manager of Ezzybucks Sdn Bhd, said, “It is an honour and privilege to be a part of an organisation so reputable and being a benchmark to many in the industry.”

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helps retailers reduce and even to the extent of eradicating online payment gateway cost. In addition, retailers obtain cash reserves, secure advance sales, and create marketing funds whilst enabling customer analytics for target marketing.”

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MAL MBG BUSINESS GROUP SDN BHD Malaysia Business Group (MBG) is driven by a group of business professionals who share the same vision to position Malaysian food & beverage manufacturers as the preferred and globally competitive trading partners to the rest of the world.

MBG’s mission is to be the catalyst in providing Malaysian-based food & beverage businesses with networking prospects, knowledge exchange, and developing effective relationships between various business chambers and trade expo organisers to further facilitate business opportunities for their clients.

The company’s active approach has always been in a few key areas of focus such as exhibitions – physically and virtually, cost saving measures through group collaboration, market understanding and expansion, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

PROMERITUS SDN BHD Promeritus, a MSC company is a holistic HR business and digital consulting firm, enabling organisational and digital transformation while ensuring positive social impact to society. Promeritus is a wholly owned local organisation with expertise and experience from Asia Pacific, Europe, and United States. Promeritus believes strongly in heart and head, in being more human and personal whilst using digital and analytics to improve, measure and grow.

Headquartered in Malaysia, the company works closely with its global partners and alliances. Promeritus services include HR Business Consulting, Digital Promeritus that offers BPO & tech trainings, career management platform and employability platform.

In addition, the company also creates social impact programs by empowering women, children, and youths and also our e-commerce division for personal care, natural & health care.

Malini Vijaya Rajah, Managing Director of Promeritus

Today, MBG has firmly rooted itself as an effective and engaging platform that drives exposure and growth for Malaysian-based food & beverage businesses across the globe.

Jimmy Ling, Director of MBG said that MRCA is an excellent platform for Malaysian food manufacturers to partner food retailers in kitchen ingredients supply and beyond. “MRCA and MBG share the same vision and mission for Malaysian based companies to grow and expand, not only locally but internationally too. Besides business networking, we are also able to embark on CSR together through various NGOs network. Together, We Are Stronger, a tagline we believe in for a better Malaysia,” he said.

said “MRCA membership was recommended to us by a trusted member as the industry organisation to join.

MRCA has always been responsive and efficient in our dealings with them and questions never go unanswered.

Its team’s services are most invaluable and have assisted us on many occasions. We look forward to a great membership and mutually valued partnership.”

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NO RISK. NO WORRIES. Find & Retain the right talent through Malaysians Development Uplift Programme (MDUP)

Whether its 50, 500 or more we can help!

We provide suitable workforce for Manufacturing & Service industry for the following job positions:

We don’t promise anything more than suitable workforce for your specific needs.

MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

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• Assembler

• Waiters/Waitress

• Package handler

• Cook

• Production planner

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• Customer Service

• Production Operator

• Restaurant Assistant

• QA/QC Assistant

• Retail Assistant

• Forklift Operator • Factory Assistant

What are you waiting for?

Get in touch with us now.

marketing@manforce.net

+603-6142 2222

Manforce Group

MRCA New Members

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A “One-Stop” Centre For Human Capital & Management Services Founded in 2004, Manforce Group is one of the leading foreign worker solutions providers in Malaysia and prides itself as a “one-stop” centre supplying human capital and management services to various industries in the country. Group Managing Director, Dato’ Paul Wong Boon Ming, speaks about the challenges faced in view of the current pandemic and how his company is overcoming them.

What are your views regarding the job market situation in view of the COVID-19 pandemic?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, along with the Movement Control Order (MCO), this has put most businesses in a panic chaos, as there has been a halt in bringing foreign workers to the country.

Adding to this, Malaysia is also experiencing an increase in the unemployment rate by 3.9% as indicated by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (March 2020) – strongly affecting the workforce caused by the pandemic.

Overall, there are a lot of employment opportunities in Malaysia. One of the factors leading to high unemployment rate in the country is that people are unsure of where to look for these jobs or to find the resources needed to be equipped with the necessary skills.

COVID-19 has disrupted the world economy and has seen a growth in e-commerce in all countries, including Malaysia. In the post COVID-19 world, how will Manforce Group fare?

We believe there are always opportunities within every crisis.

Not all industries are badly hit by the pandemic; some were able to survive the storm better than others. Likewise, it also creates an opportunity for our company to provide our clients with new Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

solutions – the Malaysians Development Uplift Programme.

This programme is aimed at empowering young Malaysians with the necessary skills of learning, life and work; enhancing sustainable growth with skilled workforce through basic industrial training and ensuring that young Malaysians fully understand and exceed the expectations of employers.

What are your business concerns in the coming year and beyond?

The status of new intake of foreign workers is still pending, and the enrolment of locals will be disrupted if the coronavirus cases spike continue.

How will Manforce Group help its clients get through these challenging times?

With the introduction of the Malaysians Development Uplift Programme we hope to help our clients overcome the issue of manpower shortage. This programme is about connecting employers who are in need of people to execute the labour task, and for individuals who are in need of a job or to have at least minimal skill levels for a particular work. Firstly, we’ll source for suitable candidates in different regions and place them at the clients’ work place as practical trainees for 6 months. Clients can retain these individuals by recruiting

them as permanent employees after the programme ends. This programme will help accelerate Malaysian businesses which, in turn, will rejuvenate the economy.

What are some of the recruitment challenges your organisation is currently facing?

It’s challenging to find Malaysians willing to perform jobs that are perceived to be not desirable. We’re also witnessing an increasing disconnect between the educational system in schools and the need of today’s students.

How do you overcome these challenges?

We are collaborating with local

authorities to conduct briefings and introducing the Malaysians Development Uplift Programme to the locals, especially in rural areas.

We are also collaborating with the local academies to customise the syllabus with the view to shifting the present experience of youths to the acquisition of assets for tomorrow.

How do you effectively find, interview, assess and create a connection with job candidates in a labour market in the new normal?

With the latest technology such as Zoom, WhatsApp and cloud apps, we can easily conduct briefings, interviews and training with the candidates from different locations.

Can you share with us the various processes of recruiting and employment of foreign and local workers?

• General Processes of Foreign Workers Management Services We liaise with our clients to understand their human resource needs such as the number of foreign workers required, job description, duration and its related welfare requirements.

Working closely with our foreign partners, we will match the requirements of our clients with the suitable foreign workers and prepare a proposal specifying the terms and conditions, including fees structure. Typically, as required under the Malaysian employment policies, Manforce Group will try to source local workforce. However, in the event of lack of interest from local workforce, it will be necessary to proceed with the application for foreign workers recruitment quota.

• General Processes of Malaysians Development Uplift Programme We liaise with our clients to understand their human resource needs such as the number of locals required, and job description. We work closely with our academies’

ABOUT MANFORCE GROUP

Founded 17 years ago, Manforce Group is one of the leading foreign worker solutions providers in the country, prides itself as an end-to-end solutions provider in local and foreign workersrelated matters.

The company is not only involved in the businesses of workers management services, but also provides manual labour services, worker insurance products and services as well as comprehensive general cleaning and maintenance services. Among its clients are electrical and electronic manufacturers, shopping centres, food and beverage service providers as well as hospitality and convenience stores.

Its dynamic, highly-trained and professional team possesses invaluable and expansive industry know-how that are vital to meet the growing needs of the evolving labour force. The team provides solutions on employment of local and foreign workforce, get the approvals from the relevant departments as well as after sales services such as monthly payroll, hostel management in compliance with Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act (Act 446), transportation arrangement, renewal and extension of work permit, insurance coverage and claim, and etc.

To achieve sustainable high performance in the workplace and services to customers, Manforce Group is evolving to adopt digitalization to simplify and automate the process focuses in worker and hostel management. MTS is a fully in-house developed system to keep track of workers’ profile, location, movement, payroll, annual renewal of work permit, visa, passport, medical report and etc.

The company will continue to innovate and remain committed in catering to the labour needs of various industries in Malaysia, as it strives to become the No. 1 player in the Malaysian workforce solutions provider market.

partners to source and screen the applicant to match the requirements of our clients. The candidates will be sponsored by Manforce Group to participate in a 6-months practical training course, complete with allowances, accommodation, and a certificate by the School of Professional and Continuing Education (UTMSPACE) and ProCel Faculty Economy and Business UNIMAS. General processes can be found in our website.

Apart from providing human capital and management services, what other services does Manforce Group provide?

Apart from human capital and management services, we also provide comprehensive general cleaning and maintenance service in office buildings, hospitals and shopping centres.

What are your company’s USPs that put you above your competitors and where do you see your business five years from now?

We believe in selling true value and reliable solutions to our clients that will guarantee long term benefits in return, and in five years’ time, we plan on being listed in the ACE Market.

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Market Info

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Digitalisation

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Technology - Retail Future in Digital (RFiD)

By Stan Jit Singh, Secretary-General, MRCA

“Change is a must as you can never step at the exact spot twice when crossing the the same river.” – Heraclitus

Demystify – Big Data in Business & Value of Data In today’s business world, Data has become the most important and significant single out “currency”.

Without understanding its power and use in businesses across boundaries, organisations will not be able to sustain, align, and have the agility to scale up and influence growth. The accuracy, dependability, reliability, and the proper use of data is key in building great business planning and strategies. In the absence of this, it will be difficult to declare a position of strength, recognise weakness, forecast profitability, and will inhibit the business to take alternative business routes to drive the organisation forward.

Without proper and adequate data on hand, most likely it will simply be based on “guess-work”, “gut-feel predictions” or “hearsay and general market sentiments”.

All these so called “man-made”

predictive methods or values that are based on nothing more than “just following the signs”, are deemed obsolete methodologies, If this is if applied to make critical business decisions over time it will have devastating consequences as none of these strategies will productively and effectively work.

All future actions, strategies and business changes must be based on factual data derived from every transactional area that is gathered, produced, and analysed from all data points, touch points, and data sources in running the business effectively.

Gone are the days where the retailer knows every member of your family by name, what you regularly buy, how much you owe the retailer, which was usually recorded in the famous ledger called “Book 555”, and sometimes the retailer can also deliver the goods required without ordering. Such data, even though it existed in a tacit form, was readily available for the

Data Risks & Management All That Needs To Be Invented Has Already Been Invented, 80% of Data Hacking Comes From Internal Sources Technology Does Not Eliminate Data Security Risks, But Rather Reduces The Risks Only Up To A Certain Point And Rest, Depends On Controls Set But What Drives The Data Security Risks To Lower Its Impact Is Data Governance, Monitoring & Regular Data Audit Reviews To Ensure Data Integrity is Sustainable

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retailer’s use for its effectiveness.

However, over time this so-called data reliability in managing true customer management and one-toone relationship has vanished and today, retailers are trying their best to use data derived from various technology sources to drive to the future. Not easy.

Incidentally, I once asked a retailer dealing with toys, how he marked down products that were in his stores which might not be moving. His response shocked and startled me. He said, “When I pick up the item (toy) to examine and if there is dust on the bottom, it’s time to mark down”. I did not see that response coming and only if he knew that there were other dependencies that he could have relied upon to reflect and make better informed decision, that is, rely on his business transacted data even though it was manually crafted. Was his response correct?

Perhaps not, However, if this person was employed as my Merchandising Manager, I know that I will be in serious trouble.

Even in today’s retail business such close practices are still deployed in making business decisions rather than relying on data that shows the valuable facts and trends that is based on information gathered from various data points and sources from sales performances, customer touch points and inventory movement data points. One tends to omit the fact that today it is the customer who drives demand in the business.

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Business Intelligence (BI) Diagram – Simplified View Data Generated From; Sales, Customers, Suppliers, Inventory, Purchase Orders & Accounting Transactions

Looks Backward To Provide Data Analytics & Results To Show Movements, Trends, Comparisons, Price Points……

To Make Business Decisions

Looks Forward To Suggest Potential Occurrences & What Remedial Steps To Take In Moving Forward

Data Gathered

Bi Solutions With Predictive & Prescriptive Analytics Solutions

BI Solutions

If retailers are cognisant of this reality and truth it will bring them to an advantage point to make the necessary changes especially when dealing with psychographics of merchandising to change their product lines and offerings to expand their business boundaries as well. Sadly, at the same time huge opportunities and targets are missed very often than not due to a lack of information or simply not able to interpret the data for its true value and position to take the business forward based on predictive and prescriptive actions, and fixed business and operational gaps when moving forward.

Against this background let us diffuse the myth between Large/ Huge Data and Big Data and examine to see what has transpired in businesses today.

Many organisations and in particular, retail, have deployed retail applications systems (RAS) and few have also added business intelligence systems (BIS) with analytical capabilities to take the transacted data from the RAS system to analyse the data in BIS to provide meaningful and desired information/results.

Traditionally, all RAS has standard reports that are fixed in formats, size, columns, and

data image presentation and you cannot change the report layout except through a customisation or modification process, with cost involved, and users also cannot do what we call, data-on-demand on the fly. However, report that is produced by the BIS is dynamic in nature and users can slice and dice the data that is displayed, meaning, changing the data position, adding or subtracting its position, taking data from other tables to cross check and interrogate the data to do “what if” analysis on the fly to compare and bring this to its desired point to measure the results to make certain business decisions.

Unfortunately, in the standard report environment this cannot be achieved.

There are also other considerations in today’s business world where the likes of business data which has grown exponentially resulting in “Huge Data or Large Data” as it’s known, and this differs from the notion that your organisation has “Big Data” which to many, brings in some degree of confusion. The difference between Huge Data or Large Data (LD) and Big Data (BD) is that LD operates on structured data, meaning, data that is transactional in nature comes from the RAS, such as sales

data, accounting data, inventory data, customer data and so on.

These pieces of data created has fixed length, formats, data sizes and so on, depending on the data table which in turn is shown in the standard reports.

When data continues to grow in your business relatively, hard disk storage space equally needs to be increased to house the growth in data size. You often hear from your IT Department that the disk storage space needs to be increased to cope with the increase in data size. Take note that the original source of this data comes from your RAS and as long as there are daily transactions data will continue to grow. When the data size is very large, it may require a second or add-on space to provide additional storage, and in this scenario, your organisation has, what we call, Large/Huge Data which differs from Big Data, because BD will contain data that is both structured and unstructured.

Notice that your RAS only deals with structured data.

Today, newer technologies have also played a huge role in disrupting the business environment in creating the data evolution that is derived from various data points and sources, How these pieces of unstructured data that is created Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

Digitalisation

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Total Data Strategy & Planning Data Profiling & Labeling

Availability

Data Qualification & Readiness

Enterprise Data Mgmt & Integration

Confidentiality

Data Segmentation/ Ownership

Data Security/ Allocation

Integrity are collected, organised, aligned, processed, and produced is helping businesses to bring in greater understanding in knowing where it’s heading especially in the various business models/formats and how to take it to the next level.

Outside of your RAS, data that is triggered, generated and collected that comes from other data sources such as Internet Commerce, Social Media, Cameras (Video), Call Centres (Voice), and other Digital Devices, which is unstructured, needs to be all arranged and aligned to make business sense to give you the visibility across your business ecoenvironment so that information generated by the BIS will provide insights as to what is happening in your business and operations, and what steps can be taken to overcome the challenges or steps taken to improve and influence growth in your business. In this scenario these pieces of data have different characteristics, meaning they vary in data formats, sizes/ Malaysia Retailer Vol 9 No 1

volumes, varieties, velocity / speed, and data structure.

When this occurs in your business, your organisation now has elements of Big Data that will require a comprehensive BIS that has capability of taking both structured (from RAS) and unstructured pieces of data to make meaningful business sense.

In retailing specifics, there are five areas of focus – Sales, Customers Touch Points, Inventory Movement Data Points, Vendors/ Suppliers Performance and Store Operation Data Points.

Data in today’s Digital Retailing, where technology has played a role in generating, and how the Digital Data that is generated in the business need a good degree of control and discipline to ensure that not only is it protected and safeguarded from all harm such as data breach, data loss, data accuracy, data reliability, but in turn the information generated can also be harnessed to create new business

opportunities, business models and expansion plans.

Note that Big Data is not a “technology” per se but a term used to denote varieties of data that exist in your business and there are underlying technologies within the Big Data umbrella to seamlessly connect these pieces of structured and unstructured data to give business owners the sense, feel, and direction of the business and any productive action that needs to be taken to improve and be profitable.

Let me move further to add other pointers to underline the importance of data security, data management and data compliance initiatives when dealing with business data and what exactly is Business Intelligence (BI).

Let me start with BI. When transacted data is viewed through the lens of any BI systems, it will only produce data views based on historical data, “what happened yesterday or prior”. This is good for now, but what about for tomorrow or the future? What do I need to do with the informed guidance that business needs to make any future considerations?

If you are thinking along this line, then you are on track. What is “missing” in the BI process besides providing analytical information are two more key functions or intelligence process that will be required to make the whole BI process complete. They are: “Predictive” (What can happen next?) and “Prescriptive” (What measures can I take?) capabilities so that the business’s future strategies and initiatives can be aligned based on the results drawn from the business transacted data. In this scenario, elements of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are always present.

AI is another huge subject matter which we will cover in the next issue.

It is also good to consider good data practices in your organisation which not only must be viewed

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Data Actions & Task Oriented Framework Eliminate

Raise

Data Contentions Data Unstructured Data Misuse Poor Data Services Data Abuse Data Unwarranted Deletion

Data Awareness Data Integrity Data Reliability Data Dependability Data Localisation Data Efficiencies

Reduce

Create

Data Pilferage Data Sniffing Data Overdose Data Spills Data Silos Data Pitfalls

Data Knowledge Portal Data Marts / Banks Data Awareness Data Relationships Data Links

with greater importance, urgency and adhered to at all times, understanding its importance and valuable impact, but also in adverse situations which may arise when there are data breaches.

Let us not also forget there will be business changes, new models, new channels, overseas business developments, mergers or acquisitions, new business partners, and how your organisation will heavily rely its position on good data.

Nonetheless, let me highlight some of the areas that will require your utmost attention and create awareness on importance of Data Management: Core Data – Ensure to always protect your business data that contains key & invaluable information which ultimately be used in all your business strategies, development, and business technical know-how. Guard this.

Shared Data – These pieces of data meant for information purposes only that the business wishes to share with closed communities such as suppliers, customers and business partners, and placed it in separate

platform so that in case of a data breach, the issues arising can be isolated. Still, elements of security and access must be controlled.

Submission Data – This is meant to be submitted to the Regulatory Bodies and must be provided in a secure manner especially when it is transmitted and where storage devices are used for this purpose.

Business Data – Data that is used for the purposes of carrying out all transactions must be fully secured even within the organisation on accessibility whilst the external access may be secured through Firewalls and so on. Note that 80% of the hacking carried out in organisations and business systems are done internally, 20% externally.

Sensitive Data – For all vital information pertaining to customers, suppliers and other parties, that is on file, the organisation needs to ensure it is fully secured, and meets PDPA (Personal Data Protection Act) and there are adequate Non-Disclosures Agreements and Disclaimers put in place to protect the company. If there is a data breach, the outcome of consequential damages is

unimaginably negative. Has your organisation crafted a Data Security Policy that manages, governs, and protects your business data? Be on guard and monitor continuously.

Business Continuity Data – Your organisation must always be ready to face adverse or disaster situations. Therefore, you must always have your data and information readily available to operate your business on site or remotely and, there most always be accessibility to your business data which is key. One point to strictly note in that when you are in a disaster mode, data security can be compromised and so in your Business Continuity Planning (BCP) you must underline processes to avoid such mishaps.

Backed Up Data – Ensure that the data that is backed up daily or periodically is always tested for its reliability and accessibility. There were many cases where data that was required in times of need, could not be accessed or simply “missing” in adverse events, such as Ransomware / Virus attacks, and system failures, only to learn that the backed-up devices were rendered hopeless and could not be used in this critical moment of need to rely upon. Always check your devices.

Value of Data – Today, data is the “New Currency” and businesses should apply to use the data effectively in developing new strategies for growth, to change the current business landscape to expand, and perhaps create new business opportunities. However, to meet this objective and goal setting, business data must always be accurate, reliable and dependable and kept securely within the organisation’s core value framework.

There is a saying that “Money finds Money” and so “Good Data finds Great Opportunities”.

In the next issue, I shall write about Artificial Intelligence (AI).

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Market Info

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Malaysians Prefer e-Wallets and Debit Cards as Payment Methods A survey found that an encouraging number of people prefer cashless transactions, especially since the enforcement of the Movement Control Order (MCO).

e recently carried out a survey on more than 1,000 Malaysians between the ages of 18 and over 65. Most people still prefer cash transactions – especially before the enforcement of MCO,” said Alvin Chai, User Experience Consultant at Netizen eXperience which provides user research, analytics and technology solutions for digital transformation.

The key factors that contribute to this are Malaysians’ concerns over security and privacy issues, and the possibility to overspend

“W

with cashless payment methods, added Chai.

“Post MCO, e-Wallets and debit cards are becoming fast favourites and the main reasons are because of contactless payments and convenience,” he said, adding that the shift was a step in the right direction with the buzz of digital banking licensing in Malaysia.

The survey also found the use of cashless payment methods being more prevalent among those between the ages of 18 and 54, compared to those aged 55 and above.

Cash 29.3%

Bank Transfer 3% QR Pay 2.2% Malaysians’ Preferred Payment Method During MCO

Debit Card 9.5%

e-Wallet 28.6% Debit Card 27.4% Top reasons to use Cash: • Convenience • Payment option that’s readily available at the store • Easier to control spending

Top reasons to use e-Wallets: • Contactless payment • Convenience • Incentives (Discounts and Cashback)

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Top reasons to use Debit Cards: • Contactless payment • Convenience • Payment option that’s readily available at the store

Alvin Chai, User Experience Consultant at Netizen eXperience.

Bank Negara Malaysia was in the midst of finalising the licensing framework for digital banks and planned to issue up to five digital bank licences. However, the development of the framework hit a snag due to disruptions caused

by COVID-19.

“As user experience researchers, we see Malaysia’s e-wallet players leaning towards digital banking but the more traditional financial institutions – banks and insurance firms – are a little hesitant. Change can be a little difficult but we are here to make the progression easier, while being completely customer centric,” said Chai.

Netizen eXperience specialises in all things digital – development of mobile apps, launching digital features for its clients and even building websites. Its key-strength in being able to track digital behaviour of consumers and carry out data analytics following a digital-product launch.

The global pandemic have disrupted almost every aspect of life and the retail industry is no exception. Brick and mortar companies that want to sustain their business need to adapt because the consumer demand is changing, and it will drive the new post-COVID retail world.

ccording to a survey by CPA Australia, global professional accounting organisation, it was found that 40% of small businesses in Malaysia increased their focus on online sales due to COVID-19.

Furthermore, e-commerce wasn’t the only technology they relied on. Over 60% of them had also branched out to social media to promote their businesses, with 55% using it to communicate with customers.

Inspired by the wave of business digitalisation across Southeast Asia during the pandemic, Frost Chen, CEO of EasyStore, wanted to bring a value-added eCommerce concept to Malaysia’s burgeoning online retail scene.

The benefit of setting up an online business with EasyStore

A

is the multiple sales channel platform that gives merchants the opportunity to diversify their income streams. Knowing that time and resources would be a major issue for its merchants, EasyStore’s platform is designed to help merchants compile and keep on top of their orders from marketplaces such as Facebook, Lazada and Shopee, while automating integrated processes like invoicing and inventory syncing.

With an array of other offerings as well, EasyStore has helped its merchants to generate a Gross Merchandise Value of over RM500 million in 2020 – and their success stories speak for themselves.

One of its clients, Hair Depot, an online hair & beauty retailers with more than 20 physical stores across the country, used to generate 90% of its revenues through in-

store sales during pre-MCO 2020.

Hair Depot turned around to fullyfocus on e-commerce. Today more than 50% of their total revenue is generated online with the help of EasyStore.

Jia Xiang, a home-grown business that offers dried seafood products curated from the Pangkor waters, was able to reap a five-fold increase in sales when MCO1 began in March last year. It also attracted more customers and increased its band exposure .For another local business, Lacust, a premium hot chilli sauce brand, EasyStore’s user-friendly and integrated platform made the operations of the ecommerce brand much easier to manage. This resulted in over 80% increase in sales and product quantity sold since the initial MCO in 2020.

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Market Info

Selling More with Multi Sales Channel

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Market Info

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Ikano Centres Ignites Creative Spark, An Initiative to Transform Its Meeting Place in Batu Kawan The first phase of the shopping centre continues to grow its offerings via community partnerships and new F&B additions to its drive-thru by mid-2021.

Ikano Centres, part of IKEA Southeast Asia, launched Creative Spark, an art-based platform aimed at bringing communities together through an arts mentorship programme. The initiative kicked off with the unveiling of the ‘Building Yourself’ graffiti mural at its Penang centre, anchored by IKEA Batu Kawan. The mural symbolises a fresh start for the dynamic new community and township.

In collaboration with Can Can Public Art, a creative place-making team specialising in street and public art, the mural was completed by the renowned artist Leonard Siaw with the assistance of three art graduates under his mentorship.

Symbolic to the community starting anew, the mural portrays cultural elements inspired by music, education, learning, arts, and popculture. ‘Building Yourself’ is the largest interactive outdoor painted mural in Penang and is supported by the Penang State Art Gallery.

“We aim to enable and empower our visitors to get involved, participate, and enjoy our meeting places across all regions. In these times, more than ever, communitybuilding has become a priority for our meeting places. Our plan for every destination is to facilitate learning, provide inspiration and memorable experiences, as well as ignite connections within the community,” said Adrian Mirea, IKEA Southeast Asia’s Shopping Centre and Mixed-Used Director.

He continued, “We are thrilled to be able to provide a platform for new uprising talents to showcase

I

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Ribbon cutting ceremony at Ikano Centres Batu Kawan. From left: Pathmalingan Arumugam, Store Manager, IKEA Batu Kawan; Tan Chor Whye, Founder, Can Can Public Art; Kasthuri Patto, MP of Batu Kawan; Chong Eng, Penang State Executive Councillor for Social Development & Non-Islamic Religious Affairs; Lee Khai, Chairman, Penang State Art Gallery; Dato Seri Nazir Ariff, Deputy Chairman and Co-Founder, Aspen Group; Tpr Gooh Choon Aik, Adun Bukit Tambun; and Arnoud Bakker, Head of Leasing, IKEA Southeast Asia.

their abilities, sharpen their skills, and connect with like-minded people. In addition to our F&B drivethru component that is scheduled to launch in Q2 this year, Creative Spark is one of our continued efforts to grow our offerings to the Batu Kawan community.”

Last year, Ikano Centres announced that it would be welcoming its first partner to its drive-thru concept – McDonald’s Malaysia. Taking up about 35,000 square feet space, the quick-service restaurant at Batu Kawan will be Penang’s 16th free-standing McDonald’s Malaysia outlet. Tealive and KFC will also be joining the drive-thru, with scheduled openings by the end of 2021. The team is also in talks with supermarket and petrol station operators to align Batu Kawan’s offer to meet the high demand in Aspen Vision City’s vastly growing township.

Tan Chor Whye, CEO of Can Can Public Art said, “We are truly excited to be working with Ikano Centres

on a platform to support the local creative industry, as well as nurture up-and-coming artists in Malaysia.

The ‘Building Yourself’ mural is just the first of many collaborations to come as we hope we can contribute to positioning Batu Kawan as a hub for arts and culture.”

Penang State Art Gallery Chairman, Lee Khai, also shared his support towards transforming Batu Kawan into a space that encourages the community to connect. “We hope Creative Spark will continue to inspire talents in creating art that brings light, joy and hope to the people of Penang and when borders open up, to all Malaysians and tourists too,” he said.

The Creative Spark mentorship programme is an initiative by Ikano Centres to celebrate all forms of art such as music, dance, and theatre.

The platform also encourages the community to connect and explore their own unique creativity at its portfolio of centres in both Malaysia and Thailand.

Market Info

36

Zeek Raises US$10 Million Funding Despite Market Adversity The Southeast Asia logistics pioneer will use the new funding for further expansion in the regional markets, enhancement and refinement of logistics management technology and data analytics applications.

he latest round of financing takes Zeek’s total funding raised to around US$15 million up to date from investors that include SF Holding, Chinachem Group, Philippines KHO Group family, Dr. Lee Ka Kit, Chairman and Managing Director of Henderson Land in private investment, the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund Corporation of the Hong Kong SAR Government, Elite Time Limited, Radiant Tech Venture Fund LP, Caelus Asset Management, and

T

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SQ Capital Ventures, among others.

SQ Capital Partners acted as the financial adviser to Zeek for this financing round.

Founded in Hong Kong, Zeek has quickly expanded its business presence in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia and is planning to set foot in Taiwan, the Philippines and Indonesia in 2021.

KK Chiu, Co-founder & CEO of Zeek said the pandemic brought drastic changes in consumer behaviours with many conventional merchants looking to accelerate

digital transformation to cope with the changes.

In the first three quarters of 2020, Zeek handled over three million delivery orders, with the growth rate of 100% YoY while its manpower resources was increased by 50% to handle surging orders.

“It is estimated that by 2023, the market size for F&B and living goods sector will reach 2.6 billion, with the annual growth rate of no less than 10% and gross revenue soaring to US$100 billion.

“This round of financing will help

37 our extension of intelligent logistics applications to more industries and fuel our expansion in Southeast Asia where Internet penetration and young consumers are massive and exponential growth of online consumption is underway,” he stated.

LEVERAGING BIG DATA AND TECHNOLOGY TO REJUVENATE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY Established by Kin Shun Information Technology Limited in 2017, Zeek has been focusing on the provision of data-driven intelligent logistics technology to Southeast Asian merchants with solutions spanning across online order management, delivery capacities management, big data analytics and O2O operations enhancement for an array of industries: “Zeek F&B Delivery” for instant food delivery, “ZeekDash” for Point-to-Point O2O delivery, and “Zeek2Door” for e-Commerce Parcel delivery.

Its customers comprise global top-five F&B brands and fast-food chains, leading supermarkets and department stores, convenience store chains and online platforms, among others.

PARTNERING WITH GLOBAL STRATEGIC PARTNERS TO CAPTURE THE MULTIBILLION SEA INTRACITY LOGISTICS MARKET Zeek’s leveraged intelligent logistics technology was trusted by global merchants and Southeast Asian brands which have established strategic partnerships with Zeek in the application of intelligent logistics to digital transformation.

In Vietnam, Golden Resources Development (SEHK: 0677) has become the strategic partner of Zeek’s local operation whereas Zeek empowers digital transformation for over 400 Circle K outlets in Vietnam

ABOUT ZEEK

operated by Golden Resources Development with its intelligent O2O last-mile intelligent delivery solutions. In Thailand, a locally listed company has become the strategic partner of Zeek’s Thailand operation whereas Zeek provides intelligent logistics solutions to McDonald’s Thailand.

Vincent Fan, Co-founder & CSO of Zeek said that Zeek is transforming the traditional delivery model with technology and data analytics as core competence.

“In the future, Zeek will invest resources to enhance ZeekSolutions, expand clients’ application scenarios of our services and develop the applications of smart logistics data to strengthen brand stickiness as well as to build competitive barriers.

“We will also collaborate with strategic partners to explore innovative retail models. On the other hand, we are open to exploring M&A or investment opportunities

Zeek is a data-driven intelligent logistics technology platform in Asia that provides one-stop O2O last-mile delivery solutions for F&B, lifestyle and FMCG merchants in Southeast Asia.

Founded in Hong Kong

by Kin Shun Information Technology Limited in 2017 with a team of experts from the logistics, Internet and F&B industries, Zeek has grown to be one of the leading logistics players in Southeast Asia and has expanded its business presence in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. It is planning to set foot in Taiwan, the Philippines and Indonesia.

that can accelerate business growth and synergy in the O2O ecosystem,” he added Zeek’s revenue exceeded US$28 million in 2020 and is estimated to grow by at least 100% in 2021. Zeek is confident of becoming one of the leading intra-city intelligent logistics players in the F&B and lifetsyle sectors in Southeast Asia.

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