MISA aec2019 EU - ASEAN Blue Book
Makers & Drivers of Business & Commerce
MY Future Ready
THE MDBC INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS 2019 IS HERE!
ISSUE: 3rd edition 2019
Greater Kuala Lumpur The Epicentre of ASEAN
Greater Kuala Lumpur (Greater KL) writes its success through the numbers. It has the right number of talent, graduates, businesses, markets and opportunities. It has the best potential of any city in ASEAN, being strategically located in the region. Greater KL is now hub of the world’s fastest growing economic region. Here’s why leading Multinationals such as Schlumberger, Honeywell, IBM, Cargill, Philips, Worldline, Turner, Colas Rail, Linde and Epson have Recognised 1st in chosen Greater KL as the optimal Southeast Asia as a location for their Regional World Energy City Headquarters in ASEAN.
1
st
3
rd
Ranked 2nd in Southeast Asia for
Starting a Business & Ease of Doing Business
– Southeast Asia
Business Potential
Global Services Location Index
Excellent Ecosystem US$8 trillion of new
global middle class market rising in Asia by 2020 (OECD Observer)
2
nd
Competitiveness
(WECP)
3.2 billion
Greater KL by Numbers
2nd
Level of English proficiency in Asia (Education First)
infrastructure in Asia by 2020 (Asian Development Bank)
11th (Asia) 36th (World) Best Airport
74 double tax agreements offered in Malaysia (IKL)
ASEAN’s market
644,514,000 population,
US$2719.844 billion
273,373
graduates annually in Greater KL (IKL)
33.8 million
GDP (IKL)
US$1 trillion
in Oil & Gas upstream investment over next 2 years (Wood Mackenzie Ltd Report, 2016)
Malaysia’s population by 2020 - up 40% (IKL)
1.5 hrs journey time
from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore via high speed rail by 2026 (SPAD)
Lifestyle Friendly
165th 5th 23 38 44 58 Least Expensive City Worldwide
(Mercer Cost of Living Survey 2016 Most Expensive = 1)
Invest KL Corporation (957672-K)
Best Shopping Destination Worldwide
World Class Golf Courses
Museums and Art Galleries
International Schools
(IKL)
(IKL)
(IKL)
(Expedia, 2016)
16th Floor, Menara SSM@Sentral, No.7, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5
Public and Private Universities (IKL)
KL Sentral, 50623 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
www.investkl.com
Office space in Malaysia that lets your business grow Take the space you need today with the flexibility to take more or change location as your business expands. You’ll find everything you need, all covered by a simple, all-inclusive price.
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CONTENTS MEMBERS MDBC EVENTS / 10
Global Insights on Talent Management Breakfast Talk on Sustainable Supply Chain Outlook 2020 “Bricks & Clicks” Interchamber Visit to the Exchange 106
a change would do us good / 30 world’s 1st commercial co2 capture installation for horticulture / 33
MEMBERs news / 14
BIG STORY
MY Services / 35
misa 2019 / 11
NEW MEMBERS / 36
eu - asean blue book / 20
SOCIAL / 38
COMMUNITY
DIALOGUE
STUDENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM / 23
national forum on sustainability, csr & sdg 2019 / 19
EMBASSY NEWS / 27 eu / eumcci / 28
/11
/20 /25
MDBC as part of the nlinbusiness hub network Dear MDBC members and friends, In the MDBConnects 2019 – 2 edition, our cover article was on MDBC’s accreditation which took place in March when MDBC became the second Dutch Chamber in the world to receive the NL International Business (NLinBusiness) quality mark. This accreditation was a significant milestone for MDBC; besides being recognised as one of the leading Dutch Chambers in the world, MDBC also became part of the international NLinBusiness Hub network. NLinBusiness was initiated by the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers (VNO - NCW), and The Royal Association of Small and Medium - sized Enterprises (MKB - Nederland), in close partnership with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, and several main employers’ organisations. This places NLinBusiness right in the centre of the Dutch public – private ecosystem for international business. With their objective of supporting Dutch companies to expand
their international business activities, NLinBusiness looked at the global presence of approx. 70 Dutch business chambers, councils, Holland Houses, etc., and matched that with their “Cities of Opportunity” – worldwide cities that offer the best potential for increased Dutch business presence (based on market opportunities and likelihood of success). Also taken into consideration was which cities and countries have organisations such as MDBC who could offer a ‘soft landing’ to incoming Dutch entrepreneurs.
value to our chambers: by supporting our internal organisation, to support attracting new members, and by offering value to our current members, e.g. through the availability of working space for our members who travel to The Netherlands, and access to local homeland community in The Netherlands.
Last September, NLinBusiness initiated the first ever “Exchange Days”; 13 Dutch chambers from around the world were invited to attend. Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Bogota, Mexico, Panama, Sao Paulo, Dubai, London, Munich, and Warsaw had 3 intense and inspiring days together, sharing best practices, debating the future of the NLinBusiness Hub network, learning about the many parties in the public – private ecosystem, and meeting stakeholders from Dutch government and private sector. NLinBusiness also presented their added
Marco Winter Executive Director
MDBC sees this as a very positive step for the further development of our Council and for the expansion of our services to members and potential members.
MDBC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Zainul Rahim Mohd Zain, Chairman Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad
Ms. Annemarieke de Haan Unilever Malaysia
MDBC Executive Director: Mr. Marco Winter
Mr. Remco Koster, Vice Chairman Expandian
Mr. Koen van Gurp TalentSquare
Datuk Merlyn Kasimir Former CEO of Matrade
Mr. Tarang Gupta Dutch Lady Milk Industries
MDBC Patrons: Y.B. Ignatius Darell Leiking Minister of International Trade & Industry
Mr. Jack Ang Markant (M) Sdn Bhd
Mr. Ir. Ahmad Hadri Haris Shell Malaysia
Mr. Wouter van der Weijden &samhoud
Ms. Candice Bongers - de Bie Orbital Capital
Mr. Philip Kunjappy Sime Darby Plantation Berhad
Honorary Member of the Board: H.E. Mr. Aart Jacobi Netherlands Ambassador
Mr. Suerd Polderdijk Frames Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd
Ex - Officio Mr. Christoph Prommersberger Netherlands Embassy
Y.Bhg Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz Former Minister of International Trade & Industry Malaysian Dutch Business Council Unit 808, 8th Floor Wisma Lim Foo Yong 86 Jalan Raja Chulan 50200 Kuala Lumpur Tel : 603 - 2722 8335 Email : info@mdbc.com.my Website : www.mdbc.com.my
MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
7
CALENDAR
Oct Wed 9 / 1:00pm
thur 17 / 9:30Am
MISA 2019 - Day Program KL Convention Center
Doing Business in NL TBC
WED 9 / 6:30pm
thur 31 / 9:00Am
MISA 2019 - Awards Ceremony & Dinner Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
KPMG 2020 Budget Briefing KPMG
Nov tue 5 / 9:00Am
Malaysia Seminar (In The Netherlands) The Hague
NOTICE:
MDBC members will receive personal invitations for these functions by email once all details are confirmed. All events/dates to be reconfirmed.
MDBC PREMIUM PARTNERS 2019
INTERMO ERS malays a
CMYK CODES: C:20, M:100, Y:100, K:0 C:100, M:100, Y:0, K:0 C:100, M:100, Y:25, K:30
MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
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Wednesday, 9 October 2019
SAVE THE DATE FOR MISA ‘19!
MISA ‘19 Wednesday, 9 October 2019 Day Program: Kuala Lumpur Convention Center Awards Ceremony & Dinner: Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Categories for 2019 are: * Best Innovative Waste Management Project * Best Digital Green Tech * Best Practice for Renewable Energy
SAVE THE DATE and join us at MISA ‘19! This much lauded, signature awards program by MDBC celebrates and shares the best practices of leaders in the fields of Innovation & Sustainability. Connect and engage with different stakeholders to develop innovative sustainable projects or business concepts. Keep up to date with the latest innovation and developments. Hear from key experts on Innovation & Sustainability. Enjoy a day of learning and an evening of celebration with elite Innovators, your colleagues, business associates, and / or potential clients! For more info on MISA, please visit: www.mdbc.com.my/mdbc-awards-program Contact Us: www.mdbc.com.my | misa@mdbc.com.my | +603 - 2722 8335
Event Partners:
Sponsors:
SPECIAL Now, more than ever, achievements in green tech are necessary to address some of the most pressing issues brought about by problems such as climate change and food shortages. Recent advancements in digital tech, such as artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and blockchain, mean that new and exciting solutions are appearing in green tech.
On Wednesday, 9 October, the MDBC Innovation & Sustainability Awards (MISA) returns for its eighth edition! Long acknowledged as a unique, transparent, and much lauded awards program, this signature MDBC event continues to grow and mature in its bottomline focus on the sharing of best practices. It has helped the Malaysian business community develop a better understanding of Innovation & Sustainability.
A platform to showcase and recognize the best practices of companies in the areas of Innovation & Sustainability, competition categories for this year include: * Best Innovative Waste Management Program
In recognition of the value of MISA, MDBC was invited by GreenTech Malaysia to be a part of the special tenth anniversary edition of the International GreenTech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM). As part of the IGEM program, the MISA Day Program will take place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center. As always, the MISA Awards Ceremony & Dinner will take place on the evening of the same day, nearby at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur with the attendance of YB Yeo Bee Yin (Minister of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment, and Climate Change) as the guest of honor.
Waste Management contains the activities and actions required to manage waste from its inception to its final disposal. Companies in this category manage their waste with an innovative program (new to market) and take into account the impact their waste is having on the environment. * Best Digital Green Tech
As digital itself is not sustainable (consuming a lot of energy), the digital green tech innovation in this category needs to add value to conducting sustainable business.
* Best Practice for Renewable Energy In this category, we are looking for companies who implement and encourage a broad based innovative and sustainable use of renewable energy models. Renewable energy is energy from, but not limited to, renewable resources. For example: sunlight, movement, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat. From an integration into the IGEM program, to elements such as a short video by contestants, this year’s MISA Day Program and Awards Ceremony & Dinner is sure to be full of excitement, even more opportunities to learn from experts, and more chances for networking. Join us to keep up to date with the latest innovations and developments in Innovation & Sustainability, get access to the 10th edition of IGEM, and ultimately, enjoy a day and an evening of celebration with elite Innovators, your colleagues, business associates, and / or potential clients.
In this category, we showcase digital technology used for achieving green and clean goals; tech that results in transformational innovative through data.
Visit us at www.mdbc.com.my/mdbcawards-program for more info and registration details.
MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
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Bringing all our members, stakeholders and communities together.
Global insights on talent Management MDBC members were invited to a closed door luncheon with senior business leaders for a preview of the latest talent trends in Malaysia and globally. Hosted by Randstad Malaysia, guests were presented with the results and findings from Randstad’s latest Employer Brand Research, as well as the Future of Work report. This is the fourth year in Malaysia that Randstad has conducted the employer brand research. It offers insights into what job seekers are looking for and allows employers to understand what makes an employee join, stay, or leave the company. Among key findings were that two in three employees ranked ‘salary and benefits’ as the most important employee value proposition. Interestingly, there was a clear disconnect between employees’
expectations and what companies are known to be offering.
This, along with other important insights, are available in the Research, which can be found and downloaded via the MDBC website at: www.mdbc.com.my/ information/the-library/presentations/ Speakers for the event included: * Chris Heutink (Chief Executive Officer, Randstad Asia Pacific)
breakfast talk on sustainable supply chain MDBC, together with the Business Council for Sustainable Development Malaysia (BDSDM) organized a breakfast talk on sustainable supply chains. The move towards sustainable supply chains has gained traction over the years and can be seen everywhere from small, local businesses, through to large multinational companies. Sustainable procurement goes beyond just improving purchasing performance and costs, it tackles human rights issues, reduces environmental impact, and promotes mutually beneficial 12
MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
* Jaya Das (Managing Director, Randstad Singapore & Malaysia)
relationships with suppliers and stakeholders, all of which, play an integral part in enhancing business operations and improving the lives of the communities that companies operate in. To help companies achieve sustainable supply chains, ISO released ISO 20400. By implementing ISO 20400, companies can contribute positively to society and the economy through making sustainable purchasing decisions and encouraging suppliers and other stakeholders to do the
Additional photos from this event can be found on page 38. same. The standard contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals including: 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, and 16. Adopting the standard boosts productivity, optimize costs, and stimulates innovation, providing companies a competitive edge in the market. Attendees at this breakfast talk were able to learn more about the requirements of ISO 20400 and gain a base understanding of the process of adoption. Speaking at this event was Phang Oy Cheng (Director Governance & Sustainability, KPMG). Oy Cheng has been involved in sustainability advisory for over 25 years and has worked with developing sustainable supply chain programs for global companies in Asia Pacific.
OUTLOOK 2020
London, covering ASEAN. Michael holds a Master’s Degree in Economics (with distinction) from University College London, and he speaks Thai. This event showcased what Rabobank’s RaboResearch thinks 2020 will hold. From the plush seats in First Class, all looks well, or so stock markets say. Deckchairs are happily being rearranged: Yet below decks, mutiny is brewing from struggling workers; there are cracks int he bulkheads of the US, Asia, and European economies, flooding from one into the next and our central - bank engine room has made terrible errors and is belching black smoke.
MDBC members were invited to an exclusive Outlook 2020 event with Rabobank on 4 September, featuring a presentation by Michael Every (Head of Financial Markets Research Asia Pacific, Rabobank).
customers, and to the media. Michael has two decades of experience working as an Economist and Strategist. Before Rabobank, he was a Director at Silk Road Associates, a strategy consultancy based in Bangkok.
Michael Every is based in Hong Kong and analyses the major developments in the Asia - Pacific region. He contributes to the bank’s various economic research publications for internal and external
Prior to that, he was Senior Economist and Fixed Income Strategist at the Royal Bank of Canada, based in both London and Sydney. Michael was formerly also an Economist for Dun & Bradstreet in
“BRICKS & CLICKS” INTERCHAMBER
Can we reverse course before we hit any of several icebergs, from Hard Brexit to Trade War to Iran? Add to that, the Bridge is staffed by a motley crew who may not want to avoid the icebergs. In short, there is a distinctly Titanic feeling about our current global economy: it’s huge, it’s impressive, and yet, it can sink. For a copy of the presentation materials, please contact Rijn van Lynden at (Rijn.van.Lynden@rabobank.com)
VISIT TO THE EXCHANGE 106 The Exchange 106 is set to be Malaysia’s tallest building upon completion and is located in Kuala Lumpur’s new international finance and business district. Attendees were treated to a special behind - the - scenes look at the building and the TRX Project. Additional photos from this event are available on page 39.
MDBC’s annual interchamber with our colleagues from the Malaysian Australian Business Council (MABC) focused on Malaysia’s RM 100 billion retail industry. Forecasted to grow 4.5% in 2019, consumers are offered multi - fold convenience options by e - commerce, digital banking, mobile wallets, and on demand services. Yet, online transactions constitute only 8% of the total retail pie according to RGM. A panel of industry leaders at this event had a frank exchange of ideas and discussed the way forward
for the industry, addressing how both online and offline businesses see the potential opportunities (and threats) of the equation. Additional photos from this event are available on page 38.
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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA NL 3rd in World Bank Ranking for Ease of Doing Digital Business
Members News
Members News
Frames cooperation agreement to build large scale hydrogen storage systems decarbonizing the energy, mobility, and industrial sectors. The question of efficient hydrogen distribution, however, remains open. LOHC technology offers a safe and efficient solution for storing and distributing hydrogen on a large scale.
Frames Group B.V., Hydrogenious LOHC Technologies GmbH, and MAN Energy Solutions SE have entered into a close cooperation to build large - scale storage systems based on the innovative Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) technology. Hydrogen is considered the energy carrier of the future in a rapidly changing energy market. Since hydrogen can be produced on a large scale from renewable energies, it is the ideal medium for
The new partners are ready to meet the needs for the future hydrogen market in respect to bulk hydrogen storage and transportation. As a first step, the companies have developed systems with hydrogen capacities of 5 and 12 tons per day. Such large hydrogen processing capacities will be crucial for the decarburisation of Europe’s energy needs. Frames designs, builds, delivers systems and solutions in the upstream, downstream, and renewable energy market and will be responsible for the overall realization of the hydrogenation plant.
Rabobank Launches SustainableAG Asia Challenge Rabobank, a global leader in food and agri banking is organizing the “SustainableAG Asia Challenge”. Agtech companies with
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3rd Edition 2019
MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
a market ready data driven tech solution, that promote integrity in the agri - food supply chain in Asia were invited to apply.
Global Innovation Index 2019 ranked The Netherlands among top five of most innovative nations in the world.
“We see an increased demand for green fuels and are investing in the development of hydrogen solutions like electrolysers and hydrogen storage. Hydrogen is the vital link in energy transition”, says Frans Roozendaal (CEO, Frames). “At Frames, we convert process and control concepts into skid - mounted solutions. Although the Oil & Gas industry has historically been the target market, we have also seen a strong expansion of our renewables activities.” Jordi Zonneveld, Product Specialist – Hydrogen at Frames is very pleased with the collaboration between Hydrogenious, MAN Energy Solutions and Frames. Jordi commented, “With this partnership we are able to translate our customer’s sustainability ambitions into skid mounted solutions.” As all three companies operate on a global level, this strong European consortium is well positioned for a worldwide realization of large - scale LOHC plants.
The top 15 companies will be invited to attend Pitch Day in Singapore on 10 October. Applicants will be evaluated on technology innovation, market readiness, scalability, and the extent they address integrity in the agri - food value chain in Asia.
Members News
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
3rd Edition 2019
Randstad: Employer brand awards The outcomes of the study are based on public perception and focus on two main areas: overall brand awareness and absolute attractiveness. This creates a level playing field for all of the commercial companies. The awards are not open for nomination and the results are based solely on the opinions of the local workforce - making it the only award that is truly representing ‘the people’s choice’. Commissioned by Randstad, the 2019 Employer Brand Research surveyed 2,504 Malaysia based employees and job seekers across different generations and disciplines to find out the influencing factors they consider when looking and leaving an employer.
The study measures brand awareness and brand attractiveness of each commercial company, and respondents are required to rate the employers on 10 employee value proposition drivers such as ‘work - life balance’, ‘financial health’, and ‘career progression opportunities’.
“Organizations are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of employer branding, and we are privileged to be in a position where we can leverage the insights we have gleaned from our research to help companies on their employer branding journey,” said Jaya Dass (Managing Director, Randstad Malaysia & Singapore).
As the most representative and inclusive employer brand research in the world, the Randstad Employer Brand Research has become a leading voice in employer branding conversations, providing tailored employment intelligence to companies across leading sectors in Malaysia and globally.
Based on this research, Randstad recently announced the market’s top 75 largest commercial companies for Most Attractive Employer in Malaysia. The list included MDBC members (in alphabetical order): Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad, Shell Malaysia, Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia, and YTL Corporation Berhad. Shell Malaysia was in the top three most attractive employers last year and again made the top three in this year’s competition. For the full list and info on the Research, please visit www.randstad.com.my.
frames-group.com
“Working together to energize the world” •
PRODUCED WATER TREATMENT
•
FLOW CONTROL & SAFEGUARDING • BIOGAS UPGRADING
•
OIL & GAS SEPARATION
•
CO2 CAPTURE & UTILIZATION
•
OIL & GAS TREATMENT
•
SERVICES
•
HYDROGEN
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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
Members News
3rd Edition 2019
PTP INKS AGREEMENT WITH TERBERG TRACTORS MALAYSIA Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas Sdn Bhd (PTP), a member of MMC Group, has successfully signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Terberg Tractors Malaysia (TTM) to develop a comprehensive study on the viability of deploying autonomous driving terminal tractors to transfer containers within the terminal. The agreement was inked between Marco Neelsen (Chief Executive Officer, PTP) and Boon Wei Ching (Member of the Board of Directors, TTM), and witnessed by YB Loke Siew Fook (Minister of
Transport) together with Dato’ Sri Che Khalib bin Mohamad Noh (Chairman, PTP), and George Terberg (Chairman, Royal Terberg Group). Speaking after the event, YB Loke Siew Fook commented, “The autonomous terminal tractor study will definitely provide the essential knowledge that will enable ports in Malaysia, and especially PTP, to continuously improve safety and increase its competitiveness to better serve its customers. Furthermore, the cooperation between PTP and TTM is also in line with the Government of Malaysia’s
call for more participation from the private sector in realising the National Policy on Industry 4.0.” he added. PTP’s Chairman, Dato’ Sri Che Khalib Bin Mohamad Noh remarked, “PTP in its quest to remain competitive and in search of higher efficiency and productivity has been undertaking some progressive development work. The development covers operations facilities, support facilities and infrastructure, as well as system upgrade. All of this is in line with our aspiration to become an advanced preferred port in the region.” George Terberg, in his statement said, “With the years of research and development that we have done, we have launched our automated yard tractor, AutoTUG, which can operate automatically, without major changes to the infrastructure of a terminal, allowing you to introduce automation gradually and flexibly, in parallel with manual operation.”
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DIALOGUE
UNILEVER: NATIONAL FORUM ON SUSTAINABILITY, CSR, & SDG 2019 work & economic growth (SDG 8), and reduce inequalities (SDG 10). Malaysia is home to over 170,000 refugees, making this the biggest refugee population in Southeast Asia. I urge everyone today to seize this unique opportunity to lead the progression of human rights in our ASEAN community.
On 19 July 2019, MDBC member Unilever was invited to give a speech on their efforts towards the UN SDGs at the National Forum on Sustainability, CSR, and SDG 2019, “Reimaging Sustainability & Strengthening Partnership”. The forum looked at how SDGs as a global agenda may serve as a reference framework that can support Malaysian Parliamentarians, companies, and civil society organizations in improving their engagement in a way that contributes to sustainable development, focusing on sustainability best practices within organisations, creating resilience in business and CSOs, and ways to implement change. The following has been extracted from the speech by Annemarieke de Haan (Managing Director, Unilever Malaysia and Singapore). “The UN SDGs are a once - in - a lifetime opportunity to create a better world. With our scale, we can both contribute to and benefit from them. We contributed to the development of the SDGs in 2012 when our former CEO, Paul Polman, served the UN Panel. Unilever is a leading consumer goods company serving 2.5 billion people every day with over 400 brands in 190 countries. Our sustainability vision began over 120 years ago in 1885 when our founder William Lever started selling Sunlight soap to make cleanliness commonplace, at a time when cholera was at its peak in Britain. This simple purpose for Unilever has evolved into “Making sustainable living commonplace”, which we bring to life through our 3 - pillar
business strategy: Brands with Purpose Grow, Companies with Purpose Last, and People with Purpose Thrive. In Malaysia, where we have a legacy of over 72 years, we are committed to aligning our business strategy with the SDGs. Brands With Purpose Grow For example, our brand Lifebuoy, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, educates over 400,000 children on handwashing across 250 kindergartens, targeting areas where Hand - Foot Mouth disease is endemic. This is helping to contribute to SDG 3 on Good Health and SDG 6 on Sanitation. Through our Fair & Lovely Foundation, we provide scholarships for young girls to pursue their aspirations. This is aligned to SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 5 on Gender Equality. On gender equality, we also conduct workshops in schools to educate young girls on self - esteem and body confidence through our Dove Self - Esteem Project. Our mobile ice cream program, called I am Wall’s, helps to provide job opportunities to 250 micro - entrepreneurs including ex - army veterans. This contributes to several SDGs such as reducing poverty (SDG 1), decent work & economic growth (SDG 8), and reduced inequalities (SDG 10). Companies With Purpose Last At a company level, we continue to champion various SDGs in partnership with other organizations and use our scale for good. We also advocate for legal working rights of refugees in Malaysia in partnership with UNHCR and Tent Foundation. We believe this will help reduce poverty (SDG 1), provide decent
On the environmental front, we are committed to reducing plastic packaging waste. We want to transform 100% of our portfolio using post - consumer recycled plastics. Our home care brands (for example Breeze and Sunlight) are more than halfway there. We have also pioneered the Plastic Collection Recovery Initiative, an industry alliance that aims to tackle recycling and packaging waste. While we have taken these steps, we believe that it is not enough, and we cannot do this alone. To successfully drive a circular economy, we need others to join hands with us. There are many elements which are outside our control, such as a lack of segregated waste collection and limited recycling industry in Malaysia. In fact, only 14% of the plastic packaging used globally makes its way to recycling plants, and 9% is actually recycled. We hope to work with the government to drive systems change and build a clear action plan to develop our waste infrastructure. And equally, to work together to educate consumers on waste segregation so we can ensure plastics gets the best chance at being recycled. People With Purpose Thrive All our work to support the SDGs in Malaysia would not be possible without our 490 employees driven by a common purpose to grow our business in Malaysia sustainably. We value diversity whether it’s gender (SDG 5), generation, ethnicity, abilities, education, or skills. Our employees (of whom 90% are local talent) also went through a Discover Your Purpose workshop so they can live their personal purpose at work, resulting in happier employees, increased trust, and a more engaged workplace. For more information on Unilever’s efforts in Sustainability, please visit: www. unilever.com.my/sustainable-living
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EU
EU - ASEAN BLUE BOOK 2019 The European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the two most advanced examples of regional integration in the world, are natural partners with a history of cooperation across a range of sectors that spans more than four decades. Today, the EU is ASEAN’s largest provider of foreign direct investment (FDI), its most significant partner in development cooperation, its second largest trading partner, and an increasingly important destination for investment coming from ASEAN. The EU and ASEAN are partners in sustainable development and enjoy mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as education, economic integration, connectivity, food security, and climate change mitigation. EU - ASEAN cooperation continues to expand into new fields such as maritime security, counter - terrorism, and transnational crime. Built on a robust foundation of over 40 years of partnership, the EU is committed to further strengthening its relationship with ASEAN. In 2018, the strategic focus of EU - ASEAN cooperation was demonstrated through the launch of new flagship programs supporting economic integration (Enhanced ASEAN Regional Integration Support from the EU (ARISE Plus)) and EU - ASEAN dialogue in areas of shared policy priorities (Enhanced Regional EU - ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (E - READI)) at the ASEAN Secretariat. EU cooperation with ASEAN continues to develop rapidly. The EU has dedicated over €200 million to support ASEAN integration for the period 2014 - 2020. Highlights of 2018 initiatives include: the first ASEAN - EU Cooperation and Scholarships Day held on ASEAN Day (8 August 2018) at the ASEAN Secretariat; the launch of numerous dialogue activities under the E - READI program; and the #MyNatureMyHero Biodiversity video competition, which showcased youth engagement in biodiversity conservation in ASEAN. Bilateral development cooperation with individual ASEAN Member States includes more than €2 billion altogether. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals Together The EU provides multidimensional support to ASEAN in its pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which 20
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are guiding principles for all EU projects and programs. In 2018, EU development cooperation initiatives spanned all three ASEAN pillars and addressed a wide spectrum of cross cutting issues, including mobility in higher education, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and border security. In addition, the E - READI program will contribute to helping ASEAN fulfill the SDG targets by engaging in dialogue with relevant ASEAN stakeholders in a wide range of relevant policy areas such as human rights, environment, climate change, circular economy, energy, fisheries, trade and enabling business environment, and research and innovation. The new EU - Asia Connectivity Strategy launched in 2018 reiterated that sustainable connectivity is central to EU - ASEAN cooperation. The strategy aims to build a more prosperous and resilient Europe and
Asia through improved transport, energy, human and digital networks, sustainable infrastructure financing and bilateral, regional, and international partnerships, including deeper region - to - region collaboration between the EU and ASEAN. It emphasizes connectivity that is sustainable, comprehensive, and rules - based, promoting smart and inclusive growth, and a more sustainable, low - carbon future. The EU - Asia Connectivity Strategy recognises ASEAN as a central player in strengthening connectivity in Asia. EU - ASEAN collaboration in this area, for instance, aims to improve institutional connectivity, and contribute to the development and completion of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). To support this vision, the ARISE Plus program works towards improving trade and business related regulatory and policy frameworks, intellectual property rights,
standards, customs and transport, as well as civil aviation. Trade and integration agendas, both at the regional and national level, are supported through capacity building measures. These measures focus on facilitating the negotiations and implementation of trade agreements at the national level, boosting the institutional strength of the ASEAN Secretariat, and helping ASEAN Member States with the implementation of their integration commitments through tailor made country specific support. Economic Cooperation Improved trade and investment relations with ASEAN, which generate mutual economic, social, and political benefits for the two regions, continue to be a strategic priority for the EU. Enhanced dialogue on trade related regulatory and policy frameworks, intellectual property, standards, customs, and transport and civil aviation are support by development cooperation programs. These programs focus on economic integration (ARISE Plus), capacity building for monitoring and statistics (EU - ASEAN Capacity Building Progject for Monitoring Integration Progress and Statistics (COMPASS)), agricultural devel-
opment (ASEAN Farmers’ Organisations Support Program (AFOSP)), as well as negotiations over an EU - ASEAN Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement (CATA). Over the past decade, the EU and ASEAN’s economic partnership has matured as inter - regional trade and investment have intensified. To illustrate the scale of this acceleration, since 2004, bilateral trade between the two regions has more than doubled. The EU is also by far, the largest investor in ASEAN. Since 2004, EU companies have invested an average of over €15 billion annually in the region, and in 2017, the EU and its Member States have invested twice as much as China, and more than five times as much as the United States. The EU and Malaysia Cooperation in trade and economic issues continues to be the driving force behind tighter relations between the EU and Malaysia. Bilateral cooperation with Malaysia focuses on two main areas: business development, and the environment and climate change. The EU is supporting the development of stronger business ties and strives to reinforce the presence of small and medium sized EU enterprises (SMEs)
in Malaysia, and Malaysian SMEs in the EU. Cooperation targeted at climate resilience and environmental conservation covers a range of topics, including green technology, renewable energy, and sustainable forest management. Specifically, the EU is working with Malaysia to improve the readiness of Sabah to engage in REDD+ activities, and promote pro - poor sustainable forest management. Increasingly, the EU is partnering with Malaysia in areas falling under the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). These initiatives include maritime security, export control, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) risk mitigation. Since 2017, the EU has assisted the Malaysian government with the preparation of the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Roadmap and the localisation of SDGs at the state level. Cooperation on human rights will continue, and support to civil society issues such as women’s empowerment start in 2019. Extracted from the EU - ASEAN Blue Book 2019. For a full copy of the book, please visit: eeas.europa.eu
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STUDENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM W Kuala Lumpur The SIP Experiences of Fleur Husken, Shania Baldew, Freya van Dijcke, and Danique Engelberts at W Kuala Lumpur. Freya, Shania, and Fleur are doing their first operational internship while Danique is doing her final Management Internship (which includes a thesis). MDBC member W Kuala Lumpur provided all four interns with a variety of assignments throughout their placement. Danique’s main project, her thesis, was to improve a sales process through understanding consumer behavior and implementing brand identity.
“I am finishing my internship soon and I am very grateful for the diverse exposure to different projects from Revenue Management projects to Competitive and Trend analysis,” shared Danique. Freya and Shania meanwhile, are currently working in B&F (Beverage & Food, W’s take on F&B). Learning the ins and outs of working in a restaurant: being a host, clearing tables, taking orders, and mise en place. All three girls are going to be given an assignment later in their internship to enlarge their exposure in operations. Fleur is going to do half of her internship in B&F and the remaining half in Welcome (W’s take on Front Office). “Working at Welcome as a W Insider is about going the extra mile to give guests an unexpected special moment. We apply the Surprise and Delight element as guided by our coaches and it is a great example of creating memorable moments with guests. A big part of our job is to engage with them,” shared Fleur. Christian Metzner (General Manager, W Kuala Lumpur) said, “Having worked in Asia for the last 14 years, I had the op-
portunity to welcome and work with interns and trainees from several hotel schools in The Netherlands. I am always impressed with the passion students have for our industry, which is a great benefit for every organization. Having learned the latest trends and practices in theory and now having a platform to live and practice it every day is a great opportunity for the students and us as an organization. The four Dutch interns we currently have in the hotel are all excellent. I look forward to welcoming more talents here at the W Kuala Lumpur hotel.” “MDBC has really helped us to settle in a new country and city. They provided stability and support with their starter pack: sim card, cultural workshop, and a network of Dutch students and expats. MDBC gave me a chance to fulfill my dream of living for half a year in Malaysia to experience the wonderful culture and food they have to offer,” added Shania. W Kuala Lumpur is part of W Hotels under the Marriott International umbrella. The hotel is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur next to the famous Petronas Twin Towers.
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MY CORNER talentcorp: PRIME MINISTER CALLS FOR FOREIGN BUSINESSES TO STEP UP EFFORTS TO HELP STRENGTHEN MALAYSIA’S FUTURE-READY COMPETITIVENESS
At a recent roundtable dialogue with international chambers of commerce which was organized by TalentCorp Malaysia, Malaysian Prime Minister, YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad urged foreign businesses in Malaysia to scale up efforts in driving innovation across industries as well as in partnering with Government towards making Malaysia an attractive investment destination globally. “There have been a lot of narratives centering on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0), artificial intelligence (AI), innovation, automation, Internet of Things (IoT), and other technological advancements and how all these are expected to impact all industries. We may also say with certainty that Industry 4.0 will change the kinds of jobs needed across all market sectors. It is important to note, however, that while change and disruption are the new normal, talent and their developmental needs continue to be vital,” said YAB Tun Dr Mahathir in his opening speech, before the commencement of the closed-door dialogue. Themed “Empowering Malaysia’s Workforce, Nurturing Talents for the Future”, the dialogue is the first of what is planned to be a series of engagements between the Government and the foreign business community. It aims to be a dedicated platform
for both parties to contribute feedback and ideas for strengthening Malaysia’s standing as a preferred destination for foreign investment.
clude enhancing overall protection to employees, increasing productivity, reducing working hours, and complying with international labor standards, among others.
The dialogue was attended by over 30 representatives from 20 foreign chambers. It also reiterates the Government’s commitment to building a balanced and dynamic talent ecosystem capable of attracting leading investors into the country for partnerships, financing, and capacity building for the future of work.
“This roundtable discussion is the largest gathering of business chambers in a dialogue with the Prime Minister to date, with 20 chambers from around the world sharing the ambition of enriching their investments towards this nation and ensuring that Malaysia’s human capital growth and potential will benefit all parties,” TalentCorp’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Sivakumeren A Narayanan said during the closed door dialogue.
Towards streamlining the facilitation of expatriate talent, a tripartite collaboration was formed among the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA), the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM), and TalentCorp which led to the establishment of the Malaysia Expatriate Talent Service Centre (MYXpats Centre). Through a provision of fast, efficient, and customer - oriented expatriate immigration services, MYXpats Centre helps enhance the ease of doing business in Malaysia by enabling companies and investors to attract the employees they need to grow. “As Malaysia moves towards globalisation, having a diverse pool of local and global skilled talent will be crucial in addressing the fast - evolving needs of the industry. I believe it is important to remove restrictive employment visa requirements for expatriates, which has long proven to be a constraint preventing companies from accessing the skills they need to move up the value chain,” said Minister of Human Resources, YB M. Kula Segaran, who hosted the dialogue. In support of the Government’s efforts to boost Malaysia’s image as a “preferred choice” for foreign investors, YB M. Kula added that the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) will be presenting several proposed amendments towards reforming the labor market and improving labor efficiency and productivity, in line with the priority areas highlighted during the Mid - Term Review of the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP). The proposed amendments in-
He went on to say that toward strengthening Malaysia’s value proposition for prospective investors, TalentCorp collaborates with the Government, industries, and learning institutions to elevate the country’s talent base. This is done by enhancing Malaysia’s talent pipeline to ensure graduates and emerging talent are equipped with the right skills required by industry, promoting talent diversity by optimising Malaysia’s diverse talent sources towards the creation of a more inclusive and qualified workforce, and facilitating talent mobility by leveraging the skill sets of Malaysians who have studied or worked overseas, as well as highly skilled expatriate talent in the country. As an agency under MOHR, TalentCorp works to attract, nurture, and retain the best and the right talent to galvanise Malaysia’s journey towards developed nation status. To find out more about TalentCorps’ initiatives implemented in partnership with the nation’s public and private sectors, please visit: www.talentcorp.com.my/ our-work/employer-partner.
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NETHERLANDS EMBASSY NEWS
NL Embassy: Healthcare Mission These trends are impacting the market and bring great opportunities for cooperation with The Netherlands. The Netherlands also has an aging population and it has built up a lot of experience in mobility and vitality healthcare solutions. These solutions help people to live and age in a healthy way while reducing the burden on society. Solutions that should be attractive options for the local healthcare sector. The eight companies that joined this healthcare mission were LifeSense Group, Hippus N.V, CompleMed, DEMCON, Elsevier, Topicus Healthcare, Eurotape B.V., and Global Factories TEM. On Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 September eight Dutch companies visited Kuala Lumpur for a Healthcare Mission, organised by The Netherlands Enterprise Agency, The Netherlands sector organization - Taskforce Health Care, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Malaysia. Knowing that Malaysia offers great opportunities for Dutch companies in the healthcare sector, the mission was organized to allow these companies (who are all interested in business development in the Malaysian market), the chance to conduct local market research and consider opportunities in person. Taskforce Healthcare sees the Malaysian healthcare sector as a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. Malaysia is recognised globally for its well - performing health system, with a proper health infrastructure coverage, and a well - trained workforce. Just like The Netherlands however, Malaysia is facing issues of a growing burden of chronic lifestyle - and age -
related diseases. There is an increased demand for healthcare services resulting from economic growth, a larger middle class, and an ageing population. The life expectancy of the Malaysian population is growing and the population is ageing. The Malaysian government is finding solutions to provide suitable care for the ageing group and is preparing the healthcare system. The Malaysian government has set ambitious goals for the healthcare sector and is looking for mutually beneficial international partnerships. These partnerships should provide solutions to Malaysia’s health challenges and should benefit the development of Malaysia’s domestic industry. The Malaysian public health system has made remarkable progress in increasing the health status and outcome for the Malaysian population by establishing an extensive health infrastructure as well as funding schemes and programs, making healthcare services more accessible for all Malaysians.
On Monday, 16 September, all were invited to The Netherlands Ambassador’s residence for dinner and a briefing session by Malaysian Healthcare Thinktank Galen Centre. On Tuesday the day started with a B2B matchmaking between the Dutch delegation and Malaysian companies, both looking for joint business opportunities. All Dutch companies had 6 - 7 matches with potential Malaysian business partners. After the matchmaking The Ministry of Health, MIDA, and the Sunway Group presented their views on the Malaysian healthcare sector, followed by a pitching session of the Dutch companies in which they presented their products and services for the Malaysian market. This was followed by a networking lunch were many new interesting contacts were attained. In the afternoon, the Dutch delegation visited two private hospitals, Prince Court Hospital and the KPJ Ampang Puteri Hospital, to get some insight in the Malaysian private hospital sector and to explore opportunities for new business. The business delegation, The Netherlands Enterprise Agency, and Taskforce Healthcare were impressed by the interest on the Malaysian side for future cooperation and business development between Malaysia and The Netherlands. A cooperation sure to be continued!
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EU / EUMCCI
ASEAN & EU Enhance Cooperation on Environmental Protection & Climate Change
Senior officials from ASEAN and the EU met in Bangkok recently for the launch of a High - Level Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change. The first meeting, conducted back - to - back with the ASEAN Senior Official Meetings on the Environment (ASOEN), reaffirmed the commitment to strengthen cooperation between ASEAN and the EU on shared regional and global challenges related to protection of the environment and climate change. As agreed in the Joint Statement of the 22nd ASEAN - EU ministerial meeting in January this year, the dialogue will provide space for exchanges of best practices and lessons learned, assessing progress towards relevant environmental and climate goals, and designing enabling conditions at a regional scale. At the meeting, ASEAN and EU representatives approved the jointly adopted Objectives and Working Arrangements for the Dialogue as a new milestone in their relationship, to build the
foundation for further growth and explore new joint projects on environment and climate change. The Director for Global Sustainable Development at the European Commission’s Directorate General for Environment, Astrid Schomaker, and Director for Internaitonal Policy at the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Hazri Hassan, representing Singapore as the ASEAN - EU Country Coordinator, delivered joint Opening statements. ASEAN and EU officials then discussed the main areas of cooperation. This discussion addressed mitigation, adaptation, long - term strategies and sustainable finance in relation to climate change. The officials also discussed environment, addressing conservation of natural resources, water and biodiversity, waste management, plastics, and marine litter. The discussion also included Sustainable Cities and Communities, addressing ‘SMART Green ASEAN Cities’ and focusing on smart solutions enabled
by digitalization and use of technologies. One highlight in this regard was the presentation of the executive summary of findings and recommendations of a recently conducted regional gap - analysis on the state of circular economy for plastics in ASEAN Member States. The analysis, conducted by a team of experts from the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), developed a knowledge base for follow up actions by the EU to inspire and assist circular economy approaches to plastic issues in the ASEAN region. The EU shared its longstanding experience on waste management and circular economy. In its 2018 Plastics Strategy, the EU has committed to assisting other regions in shifting towards a circular economy for plastics; both regions agreed to tackle this problem together. Both sides also agreed that the issue of plastic waste export deserves special attention and urgent action. The high level dialogue was supported by the Enhanced Regional EU - ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (E - READI), a development cooperation program that facilitates dialogues between the EU and ASEAN in priority policy areas of joint interest. Drawing on the EU’s experience of regional integration, the E - READI policy dialogue facility further strengthens both the ASEAN regional integration process, as well as the overall ASEAN EU partnership.
EU / EUMCCI
EUMCCI: ICW MyIPO solidifying protection for patents, brands, copyrights, and trademarks. Speakers included: * Nurul Hafidzah (Nurul Hafidzah & Associates) * Salwah Abdul Shukor (Zain & Co) * Sri Sarguna Raj (Christopher Lee & Ong) * Azrul Hamid (External Expert, Southeast Asia IPR SME Helpdesk Project)
Above: Keynote Speaker YBhg Dato’ Roslan bin Mahayudin Bottom right: Panel Discussion l to r: Chew Phye Keat, Nurul Hafidzah, Azrul Hamid, Sri Sarguna Raj, and Salwah Abdul Shukor.
The In Conversation With session with MyIPO on Safeguarding Creativity: Empowering Science & Innovation in Malaysia took place on 31 July at the DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur. Organized by the EU - Malaysia Chamber of Commerce & Industry (EUMCCI), together with support from MDBC, the event featured a keynote address by YBhg Dato’ Roslan bin Mahayudin (Director General, Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO)).
A sustainable society relies heavily on continuous improvement that is driven by creativity and innovation. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) are key to safeguarding this, as well as the resulting improvement and wealth generation, from threats of counterfeiting, plagiarism, infringement, and other forms of unlawful conduct.
Guests were able to ask the speakers questions during a panel discussion moderated by Chew Phye Keat (Head of EUMCCI IPR Committee). The program then ended with a luncheon which allowed for further discussion and networking.
Attendees took a deep dive into the Malaysian IPR landscape to further understand the legal processes involved in
EUMCCI: ICW Empowering Women Malaysian women are important contributors to the country’s economic and social development. Improving womens’ access to jobs and economic opportunities could significantly boost the productivity of the nation. While the Malaysian government recognises the potential economic contribution by women, it does not address the issue of ‘disappearing women’ in more senior, managerial, and decision - making positions. This is especially evident in the corporate sector where the higher you look, the less women you see. As the Malaysian government continues their efforts to increase the female labor force participation rate in the country and encourage 30% of female representation on boards, it is imperative that we understand that issues that are stopping Malaysian women from working or gunning for senior positions. Speakers included:
Above (l to r): Ng Yeen Seen, Dr. Marcella Lucas, Nizwani Shahar, Yan Lim, Shareena Sheriff, and Joseph Gross
* Nizwani Shahar (Co - Chief Executive, Ogilvy Malaysia) * Ng Yeen Seen (Founder & CEO, Center of Research, Advisory & Technology (CREATE)). Founder of #OpsHarapan * Yan Lim (CEO, iOli Communications) * Shareena Sheriff (Program Manager for Advocacy, Legal Services and Researches, Sisters in Islam)
After a welcome speech and opening remarks by Joseph Gross (Chief Executive Officer, Alliance Life Insurance Malaysia), speakers took part in a panel moderated by Dr. Marcella Lucas (Chief Executive Officer, LeadWomen).
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DIALOGUE
HENRY GOH & CO: A Change Would Do Us Good
By Lim Eng Leong After close to a decade of intermittent discussions, proposals, referendums and making up for lost time between the powers - that - be and stakeholders, the new Trademarks Bill (and soon to be Act) of 2019 finally see the light of day. This would mark (pun intended) an ambitious and complete overhaul of the aging Trade Marks Act 1976. The new Bill was tabled in the Malaysian Parliament on 11 April 2019 and was approved (with some amendments) by the Lower House (Dewan Rakyat) on 2 July 2019 and the Upper House (Dewan Negara) on 23 July. Pending royal assent, it is now almost as certain that the sun will rise in the east that the new Act will come into effect by the last quarter of this year. At this precipice of exciting change in the Malaysian trademark landscape, it is apt that we bring to you some highlights of the imminent changes that we can expect when the new law becomes enforceable. For close to two years now, Malaysia and Myanmar were the only two remaining (out of ten) ASEAN members that have fallen behind and not yet acceded to the Madrid Protocol. Thus, it would be a landmark development when the new Act kicks the door wide open, making it 30
MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
possible for Malaysian brand owners to finally benefit from the administratively efficient and somewhat more cost - effective international trademark registration system when expanding trademark protection overseas. Similarly, it would hopefully spur more foreign brand owners to seek protection in Malaysia by way of a simple designation. In the spirit of long - overdue modernization, the 2019 Act will take the giant leap of expanding the types of trademark recognized for registration. These so - called non - traditional marks have actually been considered conventional for a while now in many matured IP markets. This would include shape, colour, sound, scent, hologram, positioning marks; with the caveat that they must be signs capable of being represented graphically. In a similar vein of expanding the scope of registrable marks, collective marks are now protected under the new Act and they are defined as “a sign distinguishing the goods or services of members of the association which is the proprietor of the mark from those of other undertakings.” Some culling done to the previous Act meant that archaic trademark concepts like defensive marks and association of marks have been abolished under the new
statute. Another measure taken by the new legislation to make trademark administration more efficient is allowing multiple classes to be designated within a single application, replacing the need to file one application per mark, per class. There is no indication if there will be a cap on the number of classes that can be claimed in one application but regardless, the consolidation of classes will definitely reduce cost, paperwork and formality examination time. Hand - in - hand with this positive change is also corresponding allowance for division and merger of applications so that trademark owners can better manage their portfolio. One deeming provision found in the 2019 Act states that the application date of a trademark in Malaysia shall be its filing date, regardless of the priority claimed from a Paris Convention application. Any such priority date is limited in purpose for determining the precedence of rights during examination. In the Act’s pursuit of expediency, a trademark applicant may soon only be allowed one strike in the form of the Registrar’s provisional refusal of the application based on absolute (inherent
DIALOGUE
registrability) and / or relative (conflict with earlier or well - known marks) grounds within the Act. If the Registrar maintains the refusal following the applicant’s one - off submissions, he will issue a total provisional refusal where the applicant is forced to appeal to the High Court if he is to avail himself to another round of argument. Upon successful registration, only a sealed notification will be issued by the Registrar. If the registered proprietor would like a certificate of registration, a request with prescribed fee would have to be submitted. The presumption (with exceptions) that a registration is valid and conclusive will kick in sooner at five years after registration, instead of seven under the 1976 Act. Renewal of a multiple class registration can be selective but the class(es) that will not be renewed must be removed by way of filing a division. A registered trademark in Malaysia will finally be accorded due legal recognition as a personal or movable property and thus may be the subject of a security interest in the same manner as any other such property. Together with other registrable transactions such as assignment of a trademark, placing a charge or a court order for transfer of ownership, they are not enforceable against another conflicting interest unless these transactions have been recorded with the Registry. The only statutory exception would be for trademark licences, where its registration will remain non - mandatory as per the current position. However, should it be recorded with the Registry, the public shall be deemed to have notice of the licence. Licensing provisions such as the above being made in the 2019 Act mean bidding farewell to the archaic terminology “registered user”. Licences would be effective so long as they are put down in writing and signed by the licensor. Exclusive licence and sub - licensing are expressly recognized; with new rights of an exclusive licence being introduced as distinct from those of non - exclusive licensees. Even losses suffered by a licensee shall be taken into account by the court in infringement proceedings. The new Act provides a registered trademark proprietor with specific
grounds of opposition to weaponise in administrative proceedings before the Registrar. It even allows for continuation of the opposition by a successor - in - title to the trademark in proceedings originally commenced by its predecessor. The current practice by the Registrar to defer any opposition proceedings upon request by the opposition parties is solidified in the Act, as long as it falls under prescribed circumstances. The scope of trademark infringement and its exemptions has been substantially expanded by the new statute. In the near future, there could be infringement even in the use of a similar mark on similar (as opposed to being identical) goods or services to those registered by the plaintiff. Liability will stick to secondary users who know or have reasons to believe that such use is without authorization of the trademark proprietor. To give more bite to the reliefs already available to a registered proprietor, additional damages akin to aggravated damages can now be ordered by the court where appropriate, including where there is flagrancy in the infringement or a need to punish the defendant. As anticipated, it will now be an actionable offence to threaten infringement without basis, although a mere notification that a trademark is registered does not constitute a threat. An aggrieved person may seek a declaration from the court that the threats are unjustified, damages for loss suffered from the threat and injunct against any continuation of such threat. This will curtail any errant intimidation from persons who have no business enforcing trademark rights.
misrepresentation in the procurement of the registration. Many of the criminal offences, penalties and enforcement provisions in relation to counterfeit trademarks under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 have been ported over to the Trademarks Act 2019. Most notably, after the amendment of both these statutes, there is no longer any need to obtain a Trade Description Order (TDO) to act against a counterfeit trademark that is not identical to the registered mark. Instead, the Registrar’s verification whether there are confusing similarities shall be prima facie evidence in such legal proceedings. The new statute accords privilege for communication made between a registered trademark agent and the person authorizing the said agent, to the same extent as communication between a solicitor and his client. The right of lien enjoyed by a solicitor in relation to documents and property of a client is similarly extended to the registered trademark agent. Many of the new provisions will require procedural clarification from the all necessary and accompanying Trademark Regulations 2019, which has not been released at the time of this writing. We await the Regulations with great expectation and anticipation. The changes found within the 2019 Act are both exciting and can potentially be peppered with some uncertainties, but they are nonetheless positive and welcomed changes heading into the right direction. Here’s to a smooth transition into a new era of trademark protection in Malaysia.
Besides voluntary cancellation by the proprietor himself, registered proprietors should be aware that their registrations could be challenged in various forms under the new Act. A registered trademark could now be revoked by either the Registrar or the court, under different prescribed circumstances including wrongful grant, non-use or suspended use without proper reasons. A registered trademark can also be invalidated by the court based on absolute or relative grounds under the Act, fraud or MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
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DIALOGUE
FRAMES: World’s 1st Commercial CO2 Capture Installation for Horticulture
The world’s first commercial CO2 capture installation for horticulture applications. Frames announces the first carbon neutral system for heating and supply of carbon dioxide (CO2) for industrial scale, greenhouse growers. Successfully demonstrated by DES B.V., a cooperative association of growers including VOF Prominent Grevelingen, DT van Noord tomatoes, and Van Diujn aubergines, the biomass system will save growers more than 6.5 million m3 of natural gas and 12 million kilos of fossil CO2 emissions per year. The Frames biomass fuelled system uses advanced carbon capture and cleaning technology to produce high quality CO2 used to promote plant growth. CO2 enrichment is commonly used in greenhouses to encourage crops to maximize their photosynthesis. Until now, greenhouse growers have relied on using a combination of fossil fuel (natural gas) combustion with air heaters and liquid CO2. However, with the Dutch government committed to reducing CO2 emissions by 2030 to 49% of 1990 levels, the horticultural industry needs to find more environmentally friendly alternatives. Previous attempts to use CO2 from biomass have been inhibited by the high level of pollutants in the flue gases. Frames’ carbon neutral CO2 system comprises an installation which captures CO2 from flue gases of chipped natural wood burning in a biomass boiler. After further polishing, the captured CO2 is
stored in two large gas tanks for later use. When the wood is burned, the CO2 rich flue gases pass through an absorption tower where they are dissolved in GALLOXOL® - an environmentally friendly solvent specifically designed to selectively pick CO2 from the flue gasses. Other flue gasses exit the absorber into the atmosphere as normal. The CO2 rich GALLOXOL® then passes through a condenser to release the pure CO2 before being recycled back to the absorption tower. Only the pure CO2 produced is used for fertilizing and not the flue gasses themselves, making the Frames process a significant improvement compared to typical gas fired boiler or combined heat and power (CHP) fertilization systems.
the three horticultural companies provides economies of scale, making it an environmentally and economically carbon neutral solution. Sustainability and Savings Five years ago, Frames began adapting its GALLOXOL® technology for CO2 removal in the biogas market. “Our breakthrough for greenhouse CO2 recovery came when we realized that both heat production and CO2 emissions are features of the same system, so why not tackle both at the same time,” shared Nick ten Asbroek (Product Specialist, Frames). By using heat from biomass, more than 6.5 million m3 of natural gas is saved per year. In addition, the use of biomass as fuel saves 12 million kilos of fossil CO2 emissions per year.
The Frames installation will generate 2,200 kg CO2 per hour. It also includes a gas analyser to check the quality of the CO2 for levels of NOx and ethylene which are by - products of combustion process and a well known concern to growers. The analysis is done as a final quality check and provides an additional reassurance to growers. In the unlikely event the CO2 quality is outside specification, the CO2 will be vented and not used in the greenhouses.
Dutch Government Expands SDE+ Carbon Reduction Initiative From 2020, the Dutch government is providing subsidies on technologies that reduce CO2 emissions. To enable this, the current Sustainable Energy Production Incentive Scheme (SDE+) is being upgraded. The scheme will be called the Sustainable Energy Transition Stimulation Scheme (SDE++) from 2020 and focuses on more than just sustainable energy.
Combination of Techniques The heat and green CO2 from the Frames process is used by growers in their production processes. This combination of techniques has not been used on this scale before, partly due to the complex integration of different technologies. The cooperation between
SDE++ is intended to contribute in a cost - effective way to reducing CO2 emissions. In 2030 emissions must be reduced by 49% compared to 1990. All coal - fired plants must also be closed. Techniques that reduce CO2 and are cost - effective are, according to the government, the first to be eligible for a subsidy. MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
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No 1 Jalan Dutamas Solaris Dutamas D4 - U3 - 13a 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Unit 30 - 17 Menara Q Sentral 2A Jalan Stesen Sentral 2 50470 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603 - 5612 8321 marketing.monkeytheory@gmail.com www.monkeytheory.asia
Tel: 603 6206 3878 info@hrconsultancy4u.com www.hrconsultancy4u.com
Tel: 603 - 2713 2524 asia@gncgroupconsulting.com www.gncgroupconsulting.com
The mission of Monkey Theory is to turn an idea, imaginary and dream, into reality. The vision is to unite people by putting joy in each and every person with a happy experience. We provide the platform for corporate brands to activate their sales and marketing ranging from telecommunication to educational colleges, shopping complexes, to international developers, food and beverage, to servicing companies.
HRconsultancy4U is an international organization that is a very strong player supporting HR related projects for various types of companies ranging from Government to Multinationals. Projects such as: Outsourcing of Payroll, Mangement and Operational Support of HR activities, Organizational Reviews, and Personality Assessment for your staff and management. We are part of the Dutch “Arbeid en Organisatie Group”, allowing us to support companies worldwide.
GNC Group brings deep business and consulting experience from engagements across Australia, Asia, and the UK. With our origins in retail, our team now works across all industries and in different functional areas including finance, logistics, merchandising, corporate strategy, and project delivery. Most of our consultants have worked on the client side, and understand the problems and challenges businesses face first hand.
HOTEL
ICT
DORSETT KUALA LUMPUR 172 Jalan Imbi 55100 Kuala Lumpur
poet farmer 89 Lorong Maarof Bangsar 59000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603 - 2716 1000 info.kualalumpur@dorsetthotels.com www.dorsetthotels.com/malaysia/ kualalumpur
Tel: 6017 - 660 2438 hello@poetfarmer.com poetfarmer.com
Dorsett Kuala Lumpur is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, and at the start of Bintang Walk. It is just a stone’s throw away from the capital’s finest shopping malls, eateries, entertainment centers, and sight - seeing spots. A short five minute walk and guests will find themselves at the doorsteps of Pavilion, Starhill Gallery, Fahrenheit 88, Lot 10, Sungei Wang Plaza, Berjaya Times Square, and Low Yat Plaza.
Poet Farmer is a digital solutions agency. We specialize in providing user - centric digital solutions for business critical problems. This ranges from designing and developing beautiful corporate websites to partnerships with corporate clients to develop enterprise level resource management tools. These solutions are adaptable, scalable, and most importantly, tailored to the end user. This approach has delivered great results in both revenue and customer satisfaction.
NEED A RELIABLE PARTNER FOR KEY BUSINESS SERVICES? THESE MDBC MEMBERS ARE JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY! MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
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NEW MEMBERS
WARM WELCOME
As always, we constantly expand to include new and interesting partners as part of our international community of business professionals, allowing our members to find more opportunities for success. To that end, we would like to extend a very warm welcome to the MDBC Community for the following new members:
Business Activity: Evonik, the creative industrial group from Germany, is a global leader in specialty chemicals and active in over 100 countries around the world. Our specialty chemical activities address economic megatrends such as health, nutrition, resource efficiency, and globalization. The operations in Malaysia, apart from Sales & Marketing, oversees functional services in the areas of finance, procurement, and IT support across the APAC and EMEA regions as part of Evonik’s global network of shared services.
EVONIK MALAYSIA SDN BHD
Business Activity: The campus of the Hotel Management School is located next to a beautiful castle near the ancient city of Maastricht, The Netherlands. Because of its international character, our region is known as the home of hospitality within The Netherlands.
HOTEL MANAGEMENT SCHOOL MAASTRICHT / ZUYD UNIVERSITY Intrinsik_Logo
C55 M0 Y23 K0 C62 M55 Y54 K28
#66cccc #5a5a5a
INTRINSIK TECHNOLOGIES SDN BHD
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MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
We educate our students to become future leaders in hospitality. We are very proud that many alumni are holding (general) management positions in leading hotels all around the world. Please contact us if you would like to explore possibilities for internships at your organization. Business Activity: GROM is a software solution company that works with bespoke medical device producers. We have started in the field of bespoke orthopaedic insoles and are expanding into prosthesis and braces. We help producers connect to their clinicians and doctors who order medical devices. We optimize the way they interact by consolidating all order data and related communication through a web and mobile phone application. Our plug & play solution allows producers to digitize their workflows in less than 4 weeks. This allows them to reduce the workload and improve production accuracy.
Corporate Representation Ling Su Ann, Country HR Manager Thomas Vercruysse, Head of Financial Shared Services Center CONTACT: Level 25, The Pinnacle Persiaran Lagoon 47500 Bandar Sunway Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: 603 - 7628 2187 E mail: hr-recruitment-my@evonik.com Website: corporate.evonik.com/en
Corporate Representation Luc Parouns, Supervisor Internship Region Malaysia Fanny Beaumont - Perez, Internship Manager CONTACT: Bethlehemweg2 6222 BM Maastricht The Netherlands Tel: 31 (0) 433 528 282 E mail: infohotelschool@zuyd.nl Website: www.hotelschoolmaastricht.nl Corporate Representation Koen Munneke, Chief Executive Officer Choo Geng Qian, Operations Manager CONTACT: WeWork, Level 18 Equatorial Plaza Jalan Sultan Ismail 50250 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 6012 - 410 6347 E mail: qian@getgrom.com Website: www.getgrom.com
NEW MEMBERS
SCIENCE OF LIFE SYSTEMS (SOLS) 24/7 SDN. BHD.
Business Activity: SOLS 24/7 is an award - winning humanitarian organisation which has been serving, educating, and empowering communities since 2000. Through our foundation and social enterprises, we work unconditionally towards transforming communities, corporates, and individuals to develop their true potential. We provide services in four key areas to expand our social mission: Education | Renewable Energy | Technology | Mental Health. We operate various social enterprises to create real impact while gaining sustainability for our not for profit activities.
Corporate Representation Tim Spijker, Managing Director, SOLS Smart Jaran Walia, COO / Director, SOLS Energy
Business Activity: World Travellers DMC Sdn Bhd is a fully licensed corporate travel agency based here in Malaysia. With three branches in and around the Klang Valley, our business focus is purely on serving corporate clients in Travel Management and MICE events both here in Malaysia and all destinations worldwide.
Corporate Representation Liam Hayes, Assistant General Manager Lim Kim Swere, General Manager
WORLD TRAVELLERS DMC
ZURELI INTERNATIONAL
Tel: 603 - 9054 9247 E mail: info@sols247.org Website: www.sols247.org
CONTACT: Unit A - 26 - 5, Tower A Menara UOA Bangsar 5 Jalan Bangsar Utama 1 59000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603 - 2287 7201 E mail: liam@worldtravellers-dmc.com Website: www.worldtravellers-dmc.com
SDN BHD
WWF MALAYSIA
CONTACT: 1 Petaling Commerz & Residential Condos Unit 1 - 1 to 1 - 18, Jalan 1C / 149 Off Jalan Sungai Besi, Sungai Besi 57100 Kuala Lumpur
Business Activity: WWF - Malaysia (World Wide Fund for Nature - Malaysia) is a national conservation organisation, established in Malaysia in 1972. Apart from running a diverse range of environmental conservation and protection projects, WWF - Malaysia also undertakes sustainable finance, environmental education, and advocacy work. WWF’s mission, across the board, is to stop the degradation of the planet’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. Today, WWF - Malaysia’s work covers broader issues of the natural environment.
Corporate Representation Jazlyn Lee Fei Yee, Corporate Engagement Manager Adrian Choo Cheng Yong, Responsible Forestry Manager
Business Activity: Zureli is an online database of green products and eco - friendly service. This is a free service to any company working in the sustainable sector. Green Talks with Business are B2B seminars where suppliers can pitch their green solution to an invited audience from their industry, connecting buyers with sellers. Spotlight Green are online catalogues for green products and services. These are targeted by both industry sector and country.
Corporate Representation Tim Worthington, Chief Executive Officer
CONTACT: 1 Jalan PJS 5 / 28 A Pusat Dagangan Petaling Jaya Selatan 46150 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: 603 - 7450 3773 E mail: fylee@wwf.org.my Website: www.wwf.org.my
CONTACT: 40 Jalan Melor, Ledang Heights Iskandar Puteri 79250 Nusajaya Johor Darul Ta’zim E mail: info@zureli.com Website: www.zureli.com
PTE LTD
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PICTURE PERFECT
Above: Rabobank’s Outlook 2020 Below: Randstad’s Global HR Insights
Below: MPRC’s Oil & Gas briefing for IRO’s Holland Pavilion at OGA 2019
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MDBCONNECTS 3RD ISSUE 2019
MDBC’s networking potpouri! Farewell Ambassador Karin, welcome Ambassador Aart. Lunches with members, Visit The Exchange 106, InterChamber with MABC
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