MAXIS & SPOTIFY PARTNERSHIP TO SET THE BAR FOR NEW ERA OF MOBILE MUSIC IN MALAYSIA

• An enhanced lifestyle experience with Maxis’ fastest and widest network and Spotify’s massive catalogue of over 20 million tracks
• A world of music for only RM10 per month
• Maxis and Spotify bring you the right music for every moment – on your mobile, computer, tablet and more
• LTE customers enjoy a greater Spotify experience

Kuala Lumpur, 24 October 2013. Maxis Berhad (Maxis) and Spotify are now taking mobile music into a new era with their exclusive partnership announced today. With music streaming already gaining rapid popularity and a big part of today’s lifestyles, both leaders in their respective fields have joined forces to bring the world of music through the internet, anytime and anywhere, at an irresistible price.

At just RM10 per month, both prepaid and postpaid Maxis customers can now have access to the Spotify Premium service, along with 150MB of Internet data to access Spotify’s massive catalogue of over 20 million tracks – available both online and offline. Maxis, Malaysia's only integrated communications service provider, is the first telco in the country to tie up with Spotify, the world’s largest music streaming service.

From L to R: T. Kugan, Head of Digital Services, Maxis Berhad (centre, standing); Sunita Kaur, Director for Asia, Spotify  and Chris Bevington, Director, Global Strategic Partnerships, Spotify at the Maxis-Spotify partnership announcement at Menara Maxis on 24 October 2013.

The partnership with Spotify is poised to unlock even more value of mobile music for Maxis customers who can now choose from millions of songs wherever they are – at the gym, behind the wheel, jogging or even if they’re looking for the perfect tune while dining.

“Our partnership with Spotify is a perfect fit as it will set the bar for a new era of music in Malaysia. With smartphone penetration continuing to expand in the country, we are also seeing a surge in demand for music access on mobile devices. What’s bringing this partnership together is the fact that our customers can take full advantage of our fastest and widest network in the country. Our LTE customers, in particular, enjoy a greater Spotify experience, as they get to ride on speeds that are generally five to 10 times faster than 3G, which means an even more seamless Internet experience with greater download speeds. This adds a whole new dimension to their lifestyles, enhancing their overall experience in consuming music digitally,” said T Kugan, Head of Digital Services of Maxis.

“Spotify offers you the ultimate music experience on your mobile,” says Sunita Kaur, Director for Asia at Spotify. “Choose from millions of songs, from the very latest hits to the classics, all available in fantastic sound quality, instantly. What’s more, you can download your music and listen to it offline so you’re never without your favourite tunes.”

“Together with Maxis, we’re delighted to bring Malaysian music fans a fantastic new way to listen to music - one that ensures you’ll always have the right music for every moment.”

To find out more about the Maxis + Spotify plan, visit www.maxis.com.my/spotify

SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA & MIMOS LAUNCHES TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME 2013

Seven-member group of E&E players join hands with TalentCorp to address needs of industry in effort to move Malaysia up the value chain

BUKIT JALIL, 24 OCTOBER 2013: The Semiconductor Fabrication Association of Malaysia (SFAM) and MIMOS, together with TalentCorp launched the Talent Development Programme 2013 today, in a move to overcome the severe shortage of skilled semiconductor engineers locally.

The programme launch was graced by YB Datuk Haji Ir. Hj Hamim Samuri, Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry.

SFAM Chairman Dr Kamarulzaman Mohamed Zin, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Silterra Malaysia Sdn Bhd said there is a pressing need to increase the number of engineers, scientists and technologists to serve this highly competitive global industry, which is in line with the aspiration of the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) in moving up the value chain within the Electrical &Electronics industry.

MITI Deputy Minister Datuk Hamim Samuri signing a plaque signaling the launch of the talent development programme. Looking on L-R are: MIMOS Chief Operating Officer En Abd Aziz Abd Kadir; MOSTI Deputy Secretary-General (Science) Prof Datin Paduka Dr Khatijah Mohamad Yusoff; SFAM Chairman Dr Kamarulzaman Mohamed Zin.

SFAM’s talent development objectives include bridging the gap between academia and the industry and creating more local semiconductor technopreneurs. It is envisioned that an increased pool of higher-tiered skilled workforce in the country will move Malaysia up the value chain and encourages more local start-up companies in high-tech fields.

This will, in turn encourage more foreign investment into the country and set Malaysia up as a cost-effective semiconductor hub with sufficient local resources.

Group photo at the launch: Front row, L-R: MIMOS Senior Director of Nano Semiconductor Technology Centre Wan Azli Wan Ismail; MOSTI Deputy Secretary-General (Science) Prof Datin Paduka Dr Khatijah Mohamad Yusoff; MITI Deputy Minister Datuk Hamim Samuri; SFAM Chairman Dr Kamarulzaman Mohamed Zin; MIMOS Chief Operating Officer En Abd Aziz Abd Kadir; Talentcorp General Manager of Malaysian Diaspora Outreach Ms Sherene Azura Ali.

MIMOS Chief Operating Officer, Abd Aziz Abd Kadir said MIMOS, as the National R&D Centre in ICT having a state-of-the-art Wafer Fabrication plant, is committed to provide talent development, semiconductor shared facilities and services to the E&E industries in Malaysia.

“We are giving back to the community by positioning Government assets to enhance the E&E eco-system by offering them for industry and academia use,” he added.

MIMOS Wafer Fabrication plant includes facilities for IC Design, Failure Analysis, Testing and Reliability Lab and Advanced Skills Lab. MIMOS will be providing training for a specially-designed programme for SFAM members called SFAM Graduates Upskilling Development (GUD). Not just limited to SFAM members, MIMOS’ Advanced Skills Training Centre is also open to E&E based companies, universities and other training organisations.

MIMOS’ experience of over 15 years in Wafer Fabrication, analysis, design and support equipment repair enables it to offer on-the-job high-end training schemes based on industry’s needs. To-date, MIMOS has trained 850 local engineers to become highly-qualified experts. In a nutshell, the economic return from having skilled talents is about RM1.3 billion to RM1.7 billion a year.

“Programmes like this is a shining example of the public and private sectors working together to collectively address their talent requirements by empowering our young Malaysian talent with the right knowledge and skills to further boost their employability within the sector,” said Johan Mahmood Merican, Chief Executive Officer of TalentCorp.

SFAM, founded in 2012 is made up of players in the E&E industry, namely MIMOS, X-Fab, Silterra, ON Semiconductor, Osram, Fuji Electric and Infineon; with a main goal to strengthen the E&E eco-system in Malaysia.

SFAM’s Talent Development Programme 2013 is sponsored by TalentCorp Malaysia.

IBM Security study Reveals Business Best Practices of Chief Information Security Officers

Three-fourths of security leaders have deployed cloud security services; Mobile security most recently implemented technology.

Armonk, N.Y. - 22 Oct 2013: IBM (NYSE: IBM) today released insights from the 2013 IBM Chief Information Security Officer Assessment, looking in depth at three areas impacting security leaders, including business practices, technology maturity and measurement capabilities. The study leverages the know-how from experienced security leaders to outline a set of leading practices to help define the role of the security officer.

The risk to data grows due to the rise in adoption of cloud and mobile computing that present new business opportunities as well as advanced threats from attackers.

The study found that the role of the CISO is becoming more strategic within many organizations.  “Today’s experienced CISO is required to be both a technologist and a business leader, with the ability to address board level concerns as well as manage complex technologies,” said David Jarvis, author of the report and manager at the IBM Center for Applied Insights.

To help CISOs better protect their organization and understand how their roles compare with those of other CISOs, the 2013 IBM CISO Assessment identifies practices and behaviors that can strengthen the role of information security leaders.

This year’s study uncovered key findings, leading practices, and a set of shortcomings that even mature security leaders are wrestling with. Looking in depth at three areas –business practices, technology maturity, and measurement capabilities –a path emerges that acts as a guide for both new and experienced security leaders.

·Business practices: The security leaders interviewed stress the need for strong business vision, strategy and policies, comprehensive risk management, and effective business relations to be impactful in their roles. Understanding the concerns of their C-suite is also critical. More mature security leaders meet regularly with their board and C-suite, thereby improving relations. When they meet, the top topics that they discuss include identifying and assessing risks (59 percent), resolving budget issues and requests (49 percent) and new technology deployments (44 percent). The challenge for security leaders is to successfully manage the diverse security concerns of the business.

·Technology maturity: Mobile security is the number one “most recently deployed”security technology, with one-quarter of security leaders deploying it in the past 12 months. And although privacy and security in a cloud environment are still concerns, three-fourths (76 percent) have deployed some type of cloud security services –the most popular being data monitoring and audit, along with federated identity and access management (both at 39 percent).  

While cloud and mobile continue to receive a lot of attention within many organizations, foundational technologies that CISOs are focusing on include identity and access management (51%), network intrusion prevention and vulnerability scanning (39%) and database security (32%).

The primary mobile challenge for security leaders is to advance beyond the initial steps and think less about technology and more about policy and strategy. Less than 40% of organizations have deployed specific response policies for personally owned devices or an enterprise strategy for bring-your-own-device (BYOD). However, this gap is being recognized, establishing an enterprise strategy for BYOD (39%) and an incident response policy of personally owned devices (27%) are the two top planned areas for development for the next 12 months.

·Measurement capabilities: Security leaders use metrics mainly to guide budgeting and to make the case for new technology investment. In some cases, they use measurements to help develop strategic priorities for the security organization. In general, however, technical and business metrics are still focused on operational issues. For example, over 90 percent of interviewees track the number of security incidents, lost or stolen records, data or devices, and audit and compliance status –fundamental dimensions you would expect all security leaders to track. Far fewer respondents (12 percent) are feeding business and security measures into their enterprise risk process even though security leaders say the impact of security on overall enterprise risk is their most important success factor.

“It’s evident in this study that security leaders need to focus on finding the delicate balance between developing a strong, holistic security and risk management strategy, while implementing more advanced and strategic capabilities –such as mobility and BYOD,”said Jarvis.

IBM INTRODUCES ANALYTICS IN MALAYSIAN DEFENCE AND SECURITY CURRICULUM

PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA – 25 October 2013: IBM (NYSE: IBM) and Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM or National Defence University of Malaysia) today announced a collaboration to incorporate IBM’s intelligence software syllabus into the defence and security’s education curriculum.

The collaboration, which is part of IBM’s Academic Initiative programme, entails providing IBM i2 software and courseware to UPNM’s Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Defence Science and Technology.  The IBM i2 software will be used to enhance the teaching of defence strategy, military intelligence analysis, counter intelligence, and border and tactical security in the faculty’s bachelor degree programme for defence science and technology.

In addition to providing complimentary software, IBM will also train the faculty members on how to use the IBM i2 software to teach. The faculty has an annual intake of 150 students a year, who undertake the three-year bachelor degree programme.

“This collaboration complements UPNM’s mission to be Malaysia’s premier defence university in terms of education, training and knowledge creation. Equipping the Malaysian Armed Forces and law enforcements with proven analytical tools will help contribute towards a solid foundation and help secure national sovereignty,” said General Tan Sri Dato' Seri Panglima Hj Zulkifli Bin Hj Zainal Abidin, Vice Chancellor, UPNM.

IBM i2 delivers multidimensional analytical and visualisation capabilities, coupled with real-time dissemination of intelligence and information, to support virtually every phase of the armed forces mission. With IBM i2, undergraduates at UPNM are able to quickly identify connections, patterns and trends in complex data sets that will yield faster analysis results, strategic reports and bulletins. Currently 25 of the 28 NATO member countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, France and Germany, use IBM i2 solutions to help equip front-line troops with the right information at the right time.

“This collaboration will ensure that UPNM students will be trained to use analytics, and develop their skills to help our armed forces achieve success in their future intelligence missions,” said Paul Moung, Managing Director, IBM Malaysia.

Logitech Shows Support for Sarawak ICT Expo Cyber Games 2013

Logitech’s Participation in Line with Focus on Growing Together with the Gaming Community

KUALA LUMPUR — 24 October 2013 — Calling all gaming enthusiasts, here’s the chance to display your skill and win fabulous prizes! The Sarawak ICT Expo Cyber Games will be held once again, this year at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching from 1st to 3rd November 2013. This time, Logitech is the official partner for the competition, allowing participants the chance to experience Logitech’s latest gaming lineups as they battle their way towards claiming victory throughout the competition.

The competition will once again thrill the audience and participants alike with their selection of games. This year, the Cyber Games will feature the popular Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game, Dota 2, and the new First-Person Shooter (FPS) game, CrossFire. Participants will be required to form teams of five players to compete with each other for the glory of winning and the attractive prizes up for grabs.

“We are happy to support the Malaysian gaming community in their growth and this event marks an important milestone in the development of Logitech’s relationship with the gaming community in Malaysia. Logitech has decades of experience in advancing cutting-edge technology so gamers can enjoy new levels of speed, precision, reliability and comfort and we have always believed that when science wins – gamers win. By providing the gamers with the Logitech G experience throughout the tournament, we believe that they can have the pleasure of exceeding their usual levels of performance and breaking their own records,” said KP Sim, Country Manager, Logitech Malaysia & Brunei.

The Sarawak ICT Expo Cyber Games 2013 is hosted by the Kuching Computer Business Association and Kuching's leading E-Sports Arena, Gizmo Gamer. For the Dota 2 category, the champion team will receive RM2,000 cash while the 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up teams will receive RM1,200 and RM800 cash respectively. Podium finishers for Dota 2 will also receive gaming products sponsored by Logitech-G and Steam Wallets courtesy of E-club Malaysia. For the CrossFire category, the champion team will receive RM1,200 cash while the 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up teams will receive RM600 and RM300 respectively.
 
To date, 40 teams have confirmed their participation in the Sarawak ICT Expo Cyber Games 2013 and registration is still open to the public. Gamers can register for Dota 2 @ http://bit.ly/sict-d2 and CrossFire @ http://bit.ly/sict-cf

In addition to Logitech - the official partner for the Sarawak ICT Expo Cyber Games 2013, the event is also sponsored by TM (Telekom Malaysia), the official telco provider,  Gigabyte, the motherboard and graphic card sponsors, D-Link, SIEMAX, BENQ and last but not least the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, the venue provider for the event.

For more details and updates on the Sarawak ICT Expo Cyber Games 2013, please log on to www.facebook.com/gizmogamers

HP Simplifies Mobile Printing, Fortifies Printing Portfolio for Businesses

Expansions to HP LaserJet portfolio include first enterprise touch-to-print MFPs and solutions

Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia, October 23, 2013 — HP today announced first enterprise touch-to-print solutions and new departmental flow multifunction printers (MFPs) that strengthen HP’s portfolio for businesses.

The proliferation of data created by a growing mobile workforce is driving organizations to rethink how they conduct business and manage their information. HP addresses this challenge with a “New Style of IT.” This includes delivering business printing technologies that accelerate productivity in a hybrid paper-and-digital world.

The new departmental-class HP LaserJet Enterprise M800 series flow MFPs with near field communication (NFC) touch-to-print and wireless direct join HP’s latest breakthrough MFP innovations, like the HP Officejet Pro X series  and the HP LaserJet Enterprise M500 series flow MFPs. The HP LaserJet Enterprise M800 series is integrated with a suite of enhanced HP solutions and expanded, more flexible Managed Print Services options that now include HP Page Plan.

HP also announced new single-function printers, multifunction printers (MFPs), scanners and solutions that streamline customers’ digital and paper processes and increase business productivity.

“Organizations need to adapt quickly to the changing landscape of information technology, which includes dealing with the vast amounts of data and processes created by a growing mobile workforce,” said Wai Mun Loh , Country Category Manager, HP Printers and Personal Systems, Malaysia, “HP’s NFC touch-to-print solutions for enterprises and the latest HP LaserJet Enterprise flow MFPs help improve customers’ mobile print experience and transform the management of digital and print workflows for potentially greater business performance.”

Simple and more secured mobile printing
By 2015, 37 percent of the global workforce will be mobile.(1) Organizations must be able to respond to the mobility megatrend with solutions that are easy to use, increase efficiency and help reduce security risks.

New HP mobile printing solutions include:

• The HP JetDirect 2800w for FutureSmart Fleet enables wireless direct and near field communication (NFC) touch-to-print capabilities(2) from smartphones, tablets and notebook PCs to HP FutureSmart enabled MFPs or printers at an affordable price. This accessory can be easily installed by placing it in the device’s hardware integration pocket and can be activated with the FutureSmart 3.0 firmware upgrade.

• HP LaserJet Enterprise M800 series is the industry’s first enterprise MFP and printer series with touch-to-print functionality and wireless direct.(4) The HP LaserJet Enterprise M800 series includes the HP LaserJet Enterprise M806, HP LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M830, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M855 and the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M880. These devices simplify the way customers can safely print, allowing them to do so from any NFC-enabled smartphone or tablet with just one touch. They also safeguard sensitive data with the HP High-Performance Secure Hard Disk.
• Updates to HP ePrint Enterprise(5) offer enhanced connectivity features and expanded device support for environments using mobile device management solutions. HP now offers a version of the ePrint Enterprise app for Blackberry 10, as well as Android and iOS versions of the HP ePrint Enterprise for Good(6) app helping mobile users print content secured by the Good suite of solutions. Additionally, the HP ePrint Enterprise server software will support WiFi printing from the native print path on certain mobile devices.
• HP Capture and Route 1.3 now offers iOS and Android mobile client support making it easier to manage, update and store information accurately and efficiently. In addition, users can now scan from HP devices directly to Google Docs for cloud storage.

HP expands new LaserJet line-up, improves business workflow  
New printing solutions for enterprise and small and medium-sized business (SMB) customers help them integrate business workflows with digitized processes.

• HP is expanding the HP Flow portfolio that now includes the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M880, the HP LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M830 and HP Scanjet Enterprise Flow 5000s2. These devices offer features that streamline workflows by transforming paper into editable digital files more quickly and reliably with high-performing, single-pass duplex scanning, Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and HP EveryPage technology that helps avoid missing pages when scanning. Notably, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M880 and HP LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M830 also come with an 8-inch color touchscreen and a pull-out keyboard, making it easier to preview, edit, scan to multiple formats and digitally send documents directly to cloud storage like network folders or SharePoint. Equipped with finishing options such as a 2-bin stapler/stacker, booklet marker and hole punch output options, the new HP flow MFPs can address businesses’ needs in a hybrid work environment involving both paper and digital.
• HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M750 series is ideal for workgroups looking to print wide-format color documents using a desktop or floor-standing printer with a large paper capacity. The series includes M750n, M750dn, and M750xh printers. Intuitive, easy-to-use management tools that are part of this series of enterprise-class printers help limit IT intervention while keeping productivity a top priority. The devices in this series enable reduced overheads and help environmental impact with energy- and material-saving features.

• HP LaserJet Pro MFP M127fn:  HP’s smallest MFP with monochrome print, scan, copy and fax(8) capabilities.

• HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M176/M177 series:  Satisfies traditional multifunction printer needs for SMBs requiring extended workflow management. It also acts as a hub for an organization’s document management(9) capabilities via connections with cloud services like Google Docs or Box.net.
• HP Embedded Capture: New serverless content capture solution designed to facilitate the scanning of images by allowing customers to create their own personal workflows, streamline processes and help boost productivity.

HP Page Plan offers greater flexibility  
HP is introducing more flexible service options in Managed Print Services. The new HP Page Plan simplifies the purchase of new HP products, supplies, and hardware support into a simple, convenient print services contract.  Organizations can begin realizing some efficiencies of HP’s Managed Print Services portfolio, with the flexibility to scale to more comprehensive services over time.

The new HP Page Plan will also provide convenient access to HP’s latest enterprise-class printing innovation including the HP Flow MFP series and the HP Officejet Pro X – the world’s fastest desktop printer(10).

(1) IDC, “Mobile Printing Landscape, Transition to Early Adoption,” August 2012, Doc. No. 236258.
(2) NFC technology is a set of standards for smartphones and similar devices to establish radio communication with each other by touching them together or bringing them into close proximity.
(3) The HP 1200w Mobile Print Accessory is compatible with 2008 or later Oz or Phz-based HP LaserJet printers. The HP JetDirect 2800w for FutureSmart Fleet is compatible with any HP FutureSmart-enabled printer or MFP. 
(4) Wireless performance is dependent upon physical environment and distance from access point.
(5) HP ePrint Enterprise requires HP ePrint Enterprise server software. App-based option requires Internet- and email-capable BlackBerry smartphone OS 4.5 or newer; iPhone® 3G or newer, iPad® and iPod Touch® (2nd gen) devices running iOS 4.2 or later; or Android® devices running version 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, with separately purchased wireless Internet service and the HP ePrint Enterprise app. Email-based option requires any email-capable device and authorized email address. Solution works with PCL5/6, PCL3, and PCL3GUI printers (HP and non-HP). 
(6) Requires license from Good for Enterprise and Good Dynamics.
(7) HP Flow CM Professional is available in US and Canada only and through select HP partners.
(8) Fax capability only available on M127.
(9) Document management capabilities only available on M177.
(10) Based on published fastest print speeds for the HP X551dw and X576dw models compared to laser and inkjet color desktop MFPs <$1000 USD and color laser printers <$800 USD validated by WirthConsulting.org Jan. 2013.

AMD Radeon R9 290X Graphics Card Pioneers a New Era in Gaming Experience

— AMD makes graphics leadership power move with AMD Radeon R9 290X GPU, the king of the Radeon R9 Series graphics cards, new GPUs for a new era in gaming — 

MALAYSIA, Kuala Lumpur — Oct. 24, 2013 — AMD (NYSE: AMD) today launched the AMD Radeon™ R9 290X graphics card, introducing the ultimate GPU for a new era in PC gaming. As the top AMD Radeon™ R9 Series graphics card, the AMD Radeon™ R9 290X GPU delivers breathtaking performance while pushing the boundaries of audio and visual realism for gamers who demand the best.

“As the pinnacle of our new AMD Radeon R9 Series graphics cards, the AMD Radeon R9 290X GPU embodies AMD’s leadership as the ultimate graphics solution for an exceptional gaming experience, affirming that Radeon™ is gaming,” said Matt Skynner, general manager and corporate vice president, AMD Graphics Business Unit. “The formidable combination of Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture, Mantle and AMD TrueAudio technology raises the bar for breathtaking audio and graphics, and powerful performance, giving enthusiasts an unprecedented gaming experience.”

With AMD’s award-winning Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture at its core, the AMD Radeon R9 290X graphics cards have an unrivaled advantage with Mantle, an industry-changing technology developed by AMD . With Mantle, top game developers can harness the GCN-powered architecture found in both PCs and consoles, empowering them to speak the native language of the GPU core and benefit from an incomparable level of hardware optimization that unlocks revolutionary performance and image quality.
Equipped with the new AMD TrueAudio technology and made for ultra resolution gaming, the AMD Radeon R9 290X GPU creates today’s most immersive PC gaming experience .

AMD TrueAudio technology brings a heightened level of revolutionary audio immersion, surrounding gamers with realistic audio environments through stereo headsets and speakers. Armed with a dedicated audio processor in the GPU, the AMD Radeon R9 290X graphics card will deliver a richer and deeply immersive soundscape, including true to life echoes, convolution reverbs and incredibly realistic sounding environments.

Made to perform for UltraHD (4K)  and AMD Eyefinity technology , the AMD Radeon™ R9 290X GPU elevates visual experiences on current and upcoming PC titles with superior image quality and expansive, eye-opening displays.

Outstanding features of the AMD Radeon R9 290X graphics cards include:
• 2,816 steam processing units
• Up to 1 GHz Engine Clock
• 4GB GDDR5 Memory
• Up to 5.0Gbps memory clock
• 320GB/s memory bandwidth (maximum)
• 3.79 TFLOPS Single Precision compute power
• API support for DirectX® 11.2, OpenGL 4.3 and Mantle

The AMD Radeon R9 290X graphics cards are available on Oct. 24, 2013 at a starting price of $549 USD and €399 (excluding VAT) .

MCAFEE SURVEY REVEALS OLDER DOES NOT MEAN WISER

According to Study, Social Network Drama Doesn’t Stop at 50

SANTA CLARA, Calif./SINGAPORE – Oct. 24, 2013 – McAfee today released findings from the company’s first survey dedicated to uncovering the online habits and behaviors of individuals ages 50-75. The study, “Fifty Plus Booms Online” indicates that the 50+ demographic is spending a great deal of time online these days (an average of five hours a day), instilling confidence in their attitude toward technology. Some 88% of participants say they consider themselves equally or more tech-savvy compared to others their age. Despite this proclaimed comfort level—or maybe because of it— Baby Boomer adults are socially engaging online, exposing themselves to social media reproach and dangerous security risks, including sharing personal information with strangers.

STRANGER DANGER STILL RELEVENT AT 50+
Many Baby Boomers have voluntarily shared personal information with people they have never met in person (this does not include online shopping or business transactions). Overall, 57% have shared information or posted online personal information. This includes 52% who have shared their email address, 27% who have shared their cell phone number and 26% who have shared their home address.

According to Michelle Dennedy, vice president and chief privacy officer at McAfee, the discovery that this confident, self-proclaimed tech-savvy group exhibits high-risk online behavior, is reason to raise awareness.

“The use of social networks among people 50+ is trending now that it’s become more commonplace across all age groups,” said Dennedy. “It seems counterintuitive that sharing personal information with strangers would not concern them, however. This further highlights their need to better understand the difference between the real and perceived dangers online and how to best protect themselves.

SOCIAL NETWORK DRAMA DOESN’T END WITH TEENAGERS
Despite the fact that social networks have a reputation among the younger generation as a hub for drama among friends, the survey found this to be the case even in this age group. Eight in ten use social media networks, 36% of which log in daily, opening the doors to the possibilities of social media drama. Sixteen percent admitted to experiencing negative situations while logged into their social media accounts. These rifts lead to 19% of claims that the incident was severe enough to end a friendship. Other results from those who had negative experiences include inappropriate posts from friends (23%) and having a fight with a friend, spouse, or partner (9%).

UNPROTECTED AND OVERSHARING
Despite their technological confidence, these adults revealed some concerning and surprising realities regarding online security.

Overall, 57% claimed they have shared and/or posted personal information online. Email addresses (52%), cell phone numbers (27%), and even home addresses (26%) have all been shared by these 57% (excluding instances where this information was necessary for online purchases). About 80% of smartphone users and 43% of tablet users post mobile photos online. Surprisingly, another 24% admit to using their devices to send personal or intimate messages in the form of text, email, or photo messages. Yet, more than 1/3 of them (33% of smartphone users and 38% of tablet users) admit to having no password protection on their devices to safeguard these risqué conversations from reaching the public. Worse still, while nearly all (93%) say their laptops and desktops have updated security software, only 56% of smartphone users and 59% of tablet users say their devices are protected from viruses and malware.

To learn more about this study, please visit:
Blog: http://blogs.mcafee.com/consumer/50plus-tech-savvy-but-still-at-risk
Twitter: @McAfeeConsumer – Use #babyboomers to join the conversation

Monster Malaysia Redefines the Way Employers Search for Talent

Company Launches ‘Monster mPower Search,’ A Simple, Fast and Intuitive Way for Employers to ‘Find Better’

Kuala Lumpur, October 23, 2013: Monster Malaysia, one of the leading online career and recruitment solutions provider and flagship brand of Monster Worldwide in Malaysia today announced the launch of ‘Monster mPower Search’, a next generation people search technology that redefines the way employers search for talent. ‘Monster mPower Search’ delivers on Monster’s goal to help job seekers and employers ‘Find Better,’ in this case through a simple, fast and intuitive way for employers to find the talent they need.

Sanjay Modi, Managing Director, Monster.com (India/Middle East/Southeast Asia) said, “Our philosophy on innovation is simple - we focus on products and solutions that deliver breakthrough technology to address a real market need. ‘Monster mPower Search’ is an outcome of our feedback-based research to understand the ever evolving needs of our customers. The business environment has changed drastically and employers today are looking for ‘a round hole for a round peg’, finding the right fit for a job. The ‘Monster mPower Search’ tool designed to help them find what they are looking for simply, quickly and intuitively.”

‘Monster mPower Search’ has been designed for emerging global trends in the digital space. The user interface is simple and intuitive, utilizing next generation technology and featuring an elegant design making use of a single-scroll interface with icon-based navigation and result presentation to set a new standard in the industry. Another key feature is a Keyword Search Suggestion capability that upon typing of a keyword prompts and gives flexibility to select related terminology clusters so that the match gets better. In addition, the service provides industry and education clustering to increase simplicity and speed to the candidate search. Top features include:

Simple	Fast	Intuitive
·         Single Scroll and Intuitive Next Generation User Interface with easy Navigation and Advanced filters ·         Two views of search results – listed and detailed with icons ·         Enhanced apply/reply’ functionality	·         Top Industry terminology clustering ·         Top education terminology clustering ·         Search by location ·         Suggested Search Keywords	·         Advanced Auto Keyword suggestion Interface ·         Dedicated Boolean search ·         Search for specific language and nationality requirements ·         ‘Top roles’ feature which would pull out the 8 top roles ·         Information on notice period, verified email ID, profiles with photographs

ViewSonic Delivers a New 24-inch Optical Multi-touch Display

ViewSonic introduces the TD2420 designed for commercial and consumer touch screen applications, perfect for home entertainment, education, and Point of Sale

October 21, 2013 –ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, expands its touch display series to include their latest 24” monitor, the TD2420. This brand new monitor adopts advanced optical touch technology that allows users to zoom in and out, tap, and swipe back and forth on the screen; using their fingers, with and without gloves; and even a stylus pen. The TD2420 is compatible with Windows 8, which enables the device to be easily operated by a simple tap on the touch screen. This intuitive and flexible operation is perfect for personal entertainment and business use, as it delivers a more convenient and engaging experience, for social networking, information searching, or online shopping.

With a Full HD 1080p LED mercury-free backlight display, 1920x1080 resolution, and 20,000,000:1 high contrast ratio; the TD2420 delivers crystal clear color performance without distortions or decays. This model embodies the most robust, 7H hardness anti-scratch glass, which provides strong protection from items coming in contact with the screen and makes it best suited for use in public areas.

The TD2420 integrates numerous connection ports including HDMI1.4, and VGA input, to enable users to access any high quality devices, such as PCs, laptops, or gaming consoles. It also supports SRS Premium Sound® for life-like sound effects.

With the debut of the 24” TD2420, ViewSonic has successfully extended its touch display products from 22’’and 23’’, into the medium and large size monitor range. This monitor delivers powerful specifications, which provide customers with a broader choice of applications, whether it is in home theatre or the business sector.
   
Bonny Cheng, the General Manager of the Display Business Unit at ViewSonic emphasizes that “the TD2420 satisfies the demand for: businesses, as it can be used as a point of sales (POS) kiosk, and point of information (POI) system; education institutes, by creating an engaging environment with its touch function; and individual users, where the large format display with high quality sound effects can be used for online shopping, watching videos and other home entertainment activities. She further stresses that our complete range of screen sizes, from 22” to 65” large format displays, boasts intuitive touch functions and other strong specifications. This is why our touch display product line is expected to become the best choice for both the commercial and consumer market.

ViewSonic’s TD2420 received ENERGY STAR®, EPEAT and the exclusive Eco Mode that can adjust the backlit light source under different environments. The TD2420 not only provides you with a pleasant visual experience, but also saves up to 40% more energy.

Availability and Pricing
ViewSonic’s TD2420 is distributed by SDS Distribution and now available at ViewSonic’s authorized IT retailers in Malaysia for an SRP of RM1029.

Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security 2014 Demystifies Social Networks Privacy Settings

Socially savvy Malaysians share too much personal information online

Kuala Lumpur, 23 October 2013 – Everything you do online leaves behind a digital footprint that can lead cyber criminals to you. A recent survey1 by Trend Micro, a global leader in security software, revealed that 69% of Malaysians disclose their date of birth on social networks. Further to that, 47% of the respondents have also previously ‘check-in’ their location. With half of the survey respondents posting on their social networks at least once a day, a wealth of information about Malaysians personal lives are being disclosed on the internet every single day.

In the age of online financial frauds, identity thefts and loss of data, where cyber criminals leverage readily available personal information for their own gain, Trend Micro has solved the riddle of social network privacy settings for Facebook, Twitter and Google+ with the launch of the Trend MicroTM TitaniumTM Maximum Security 2014. The latest solution features Trend Micro’s unique social network privacy technology which identifies privacy settings that may leave personal or inappropriate information publicly available or vulnerable to identity theft.

(From L to R) Cedric Lim, Consumer Sales Manager, Trend Micro, Terrence Tang, Senior Director of Consumer Business, APAC Center Sales and Marketing, Andrew Tan, Product Marketing Manager (Consumer), Southeast Asia, Trend Micro, and Lisa Chong, Marketing Manager of Consumer Business, Trend Micro.

“Privacy is a huge concern, and we urge consumers in Malaysia not to be complacent online. Personal information is immensely valuable to cyber criminals, who can leverage such information for their own gain, create false identities for criminal use or even leverage your network to target your friends and family,” said Terrence Tang, Senior Director of Consumer Business, APAC Center Sales and Marketing, Trend Micro.

Privacy Scanner identifies privacy loopholes in social network profiles
The Trend MicroTM Titanium™ Maximum Security 2014 is the latest iteration of the flagship all-in-one security solution, equipped with Web-threat protection that identifies and blocks dangerous links in websites, social networks, emails and instant messaging. It also detects spam emails containing phishing scams that can trick users into revealing private personal information.

(from L to R) Terrence Tang, Senior Director of Consumer Business, APAC Center Sales and Marketing, Trend Micro, Cedric Lim, Consumer Sales Manager, Trend Micro, Andrew Tan, Product Marketing Manager (Consumer), Southeast Asia, Trend Micro, and Lisa Chong, Marketing Manager of Consumer Business, Trend Micro.

Trend Micro’s robust Privacy Scanner now dramatically simplifies privacy settings on Twitter and Google+, and Facebook – for both Mac and PC. Facebook settings can also now be managed on-the-go via an Android app. It also gives users control over which apps can access biographical data, and who can tag and see photos.

In this ‘post first, think later’ era on social networks, the Privacy Scanner helps ensure that consumers share information only among those they know.

According to the August 2013 AV Comparatives report, Trend Micro Titanium offers the broadest combination of privacy and Web threat protections for Facebook, Google+, and Twitter across PCs and Macs among 31 security products reviewed (Social Network Protection Review, August 2013, AV Comparatives).

Vulnerability Quotient: How vulnerable are you online?
Trend Micro urges consumers to seek discretion when posting on social networks and diligence in maintaining strong passwords as ways to safeguard their personal lives.

Trend Micro has launched the Trend Micro Vulnerability Quotient, available at http://bit.ly/MYwhoami_qr or via a QR code – an app on Facebook that helps consumers determine how vulnerable they are online. Through a series of questions measuring consumers’ behavior on social networks and password management, amongst other security issues, consumers can find out what their Vulnerability Quotient is and how exposed they are to falling victim to cyber threats. The app also allows them to track how they fare among the rest of the population.

Additional features of Trend MicroTM TitaniumTM Maximum Security 2014
“Trend Micro encourages the building of safer digital social cultures, and aims to enable everyone to protect their digital lives,” said Andrew Tan, Product Marketing Manager (Consumer), Southeast Asia, Trend Micro. “More than just ensuring safe surfing habits, the Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security 2014 offers consumers all-in-one, all-rounded protection against identity thefts, viruses and other online threats automatically so they can enjoy their online experiences safely and with a peace of mind.”

The Trend Micro Titanium is the flagship all-in-one security solution which utilizes state-of-the-art cloud-based technology to proactively stop threats before they reach users. Trend Micro Titanium features:
• First-of-its-kind technology for social networking security – the Privacy Scanner for Windows now NEWLY EXTENDED to include Google+ and Twitter in addition to Facebook. It monitors privacy settings and flags potential privacy concerns.
• Trend Micro™ DirectPass™ password management system that help you maintain multiple passwords and securely log on to websites. It also includes a secure browser to conduct safe online commerce that is specifically designed to support secure online banking.
• Trend Micro™ Online Guardian™ and parental controls to monitor kids on social networks and online activities.
• Tools for protecting data from loss or theft including Secure Erase file shredder, Trend Micro Vault with remote file lock and a 5GB Trend Micro™ SafeSync™ account  to protect, share and access files for Titanium Maximum products
• Set-and-forget security – won't hassle users with alerts and pop-ups.  Intuitive interface is easy to install and use with simple screens and reports
• Extended protection for up to multiple devices (for Titanium Maximum Security) Available for laptops, smartphones and tablets, running on Android, Mac or Windows including support for Windows 8 operating systems.

Pricing and Availability
Trend Micro TitaniumTM Maximum Security 2014 is available today from all leading IT retailers and Trend Micro Website at the recommended retail price of RM109 for 1 device and RM159 for 3 devices. Trend Micro TitaniumTM Internet Security 2014 is available at a recommended retail price of RM109 for 3 devices. For more information, kindly visit http://www.trendmicro.com.my/my/ or follow https://www.facebook.com/TrendMicroMY.

DiGi empowers businesses with fast, easy and secure mobile payment solution

Partners CIMB Bank to enable a new mobile credit and debit card payment system for as low as RM20 per month

SHAH ALAM, 24 October 2013 – DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd (“DiGi”) today introduced a new mobile card payment solution to its range of value offerings to further empower its growing base of SME and enterprise customers. This collaborative effort with CIMB Bank and its Plug n Pay solution paves the way for DiGi to enable credit and debit card payment facilities on the go for its SME and enterprise business customers with a full-packaged mobile Point-of-Sale (mPOS) plan that includes a pocket-size EMV card reader, an Android device and data services.

The launch of Malaysia’s first ever mobile cards payment system this week means consumers now have an additional avenue to pay with their credit or debit card, reducing the risk of cash transactions and aligned with central bank’s vision for Malaysia to be a cashless society.

3rd from left -  Albern Murty - Chief Marketing Officer of DiGi making the first payment via Plug n Pay at the launch of DiGi's mobile Point-of-Sale (mPOS) service today. 
(L-R of the rest) : Chang Chew Soon - Chief Executive Office of Soft Space Sdn Bhd, Kevin Lee Guan Keong - Head for M2M (Mobile to Mobile) of DiGi, Albern Murty, Renzo Viegas - Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Consumer Banking of CIMB Bank, Sufriady Mohd Yusuf - Executive Director of Sunlight Unicablink and Safdar Khan - Country Head for Malaysia and Brunei at Mastercard Worldwide.

Speaking at the launch DiGi’s Chief Marketing Officer Albern Murty said, “This new innovation offers fast, easy and secure payment platform leveraging on mobile connectivity. We believe that mobile internet empowers societies and is a powerful catalyst for businesses. This is reflective of our continued effort to bring relevant services that help business customers harness the power of the internet for improved efficiencies and growth while benefiting their respective customers.

“We have partnered many businesses over the years and understand the importance of introducing solutions that drives competitiveness and at a price point that gives customers best value. mPOS is one such solution and we will make it easily accessible to more SMEs and enterprise businesses with the convenience of a full-packaged plan at the most affordable price in the market,” added Albern.

CIMB Group’s Deputy CEO and Head of Consumer Banking Renzo Viegas said, “We're extremely pleased to have DiGi as one of the partners in the commercialisation of CIMB Bank's Plug n Pay mPOS solution. This type of service has become a necessity for business and fully supports Bank Negara Malaysia's push into the 'cashless' space. We look forward to great things from this partnership."

The mobility feature of mPOS enables new and improved payment method for a wide range of businesses. It allows big volume businesses to close in on a sale faster and improve efficiency. It personalizes service for front-liners for any service industries. It also allows small ‘mom and pop’ shops, and for increasingly popular transactions on-the-go such as food delivery, insurance sales or home-based businesses access to a convenient and mobile payment option that otherwise depend on cash.

Elaborating on the company’s ambition to extend the benefit of mobile internet to more Malaysian enterprises, Albern explained, “Mobile connectivity today enables far-reaching benefits beyond the obvious voice, sms and surfing capabilities. We are seeing more machines, vehicles and devices connect to the Internet resulting in cost savings from simplified processes; improved service delivery through more efficient processes and real-time data; and opportunities for new revenue streams.

“Malaysia will see a wave of new innovation in financial services and healthcare in particular leveraging on connected services in the coming months. DiGi has an ambition to accelerate adoption of machine-to-machine services and will lead the way in enabling delivery of more intelligent and reliable solutions for Malaysian businesses.”

DiGi’s Plug n Pay mPOS service plan comes with a full-packaged Android device and EMV card reader for RM715 and a monthly commitment of RM20. Customers have the flexibility to upgrade devices and internet plan in addition to the option to bundle voice services, depending on their needs.

With mPOS, customers and merchants have the peace of mind using a secured card acceptance service provided by CIMB Bank and convenience riding on Visa and Mastercard payment platforms. Merchants will be able to accept payments and use the service at any location where there is 2G, 3G or 4G connectivity. mPOS is a technology innovation by Soft Space, a Malaysian payment platform and service provider.

For more information, please log on to www.digi.my/mpos

DiGi 通过快捷，简易且安全的移动付款方案造福商家

与 CIMB 银行合作提供每月低至 RM20 的新移动信用卡及扣账卡付款系统

莎亚南 10 月 24 日讯 - DiGi 电讯私人有限公司("DiGi")今天推介一项新的移动卡付款方案，以献予其日益增加的中小型企业和企业客户群更大方便。该与 CIMB 银行合作的倡议让 DiGi 得以为其中小型企业和企业顾客提供移动式信用卡和扣账卡付款便利，它们是通过全套移动销售点(mPOS)计划做到这一点，该计划包括一个口袋型的 EMV 读卡器，一台 Android 装置和数据服务。

这项在本星期推介的马来西亚首个移动卡付款系统意味着消费人现在有了额外的管道来缴付他们的信用卡或扣账卡账款，并降低现金交易的风险和配合中央银行欲建立一个无现金马来西亚社会的宏愿。

据 Digi 的首席营销长 AlbernMurty 在推介仪式上透露，"这项创新将善用移动联系，并呈献快捷，简易且安全的付款平台。我们相信，移动互联网将可强化社会，对商家而言更是一种强劲的催化剂。这也反映我们不遗余力呈献合时宜的服务，以协助企业顾客充分利用互联网的力量来改善效率和促进成长，同时可让它们的顾客受惠。"

"过去多年来，我们已经与许多商家合作，并了解推介可带来竞争优势之方案和提供能献予顾客最佳价值价位的重要性。 mPOS 正是这么一种方案，而我们将确保更多中小型企业和企业顾客更容易使用它，即通过提供市场上几个最实惠的全套计划，" Albern 补充道。

MPOS 的移动特点使到该全新和改良的付款方式适宜系列广泛的商家。它可让生意量庞大的商家更快完成交易和提升效率。它也个性化任何服务领域的前线服务，方便小型的商店，并为日益流行的移动交易如食物外卖，保险销售或住家商业带来方便和呈献移动付款选项，而无需依赖现金。

提及该公司希望延伸移动互联网优势予更多马来西亚企业的理想时，Albern 解释道，"当今的移动联系可带来超逾语音，简讯和浏览功能的深远优势。我们亲睹更多的机器，车辆和终端联系到互联网，从而通过简化程序而节省成本；通过更高效率的程序和实时数据来改进服务交付；以及增加收益的良机。"

"未来几个月，马来西亚将见证金融服务和保健领域的一股创新浪潮，特别是充分利用联系服务。DiGi 的理想是加速采用机器对机器服务，并将率先为马来西亚商家呈献更多智能和可靠的方案。"

Digi 的 Plug n Pay mPOS 服务齐备包括一台 Android 装置和 EMV 读卡器的全套计划，仅售 RM715 和每月 RM20 的基本消费。顾客们可自由升级他们的装置和互联网计划，并可选择捆绑语音服务，视本身的需要而定。

通过 mPOS，顾客和商家们将因使用 CIMB 银行提供的安全卡受理服务，以及 Visa 和 Mastercard 付款便利而高枕无忧。商家亦可接受付款和在任何备有 2G，3G 或 4G 联系的地点使用该服务。mPOS 乃是 Soft Space，即一家马来西亚付款平台和服务提供商，所推出的科技创新。

欲知详情，请浏览 www.digi.my/mpos

EPSON SHIPS ITS 90 MILLIONTH HTPS PANEL FOR 3LCD PROJECTORS

Kuala Lumpur, 24 October 2013 – Seiko Epson Corporation (TSE: 6724, “Epson”) today announced that it has shipped a total of 90 million high-temperature polysilicon (“HTPS”) TFT liquid crystal panels for 3LCD projectors, enough for more than 30 million projector units.

For more than two decades Epson has maintained its position as the world's No. 1 supplier (*) of HTPS panels, the core devices at the heart of 3LCD projectors. It has led the industry by developing and providing technologies that boost power and performance.

In recent times, applications for 3LCD projectors have expanded as advantages such as high brightness and contrast have been augmented with functions such as 3D and interactive capability. In the office, for example, projectors have become essential equipment for business presentations. In the home theater segment, they offer a compelling movie-viewing experience, while in the education segment projectors facilitate effective learning at school. Projectors also offer effective support for events in the commercial segment by delivering lectures, art and entertainment in large spaces. These applications just scratch the surface of the potential of projection technology. With projectors firmly established as an important communications tool, Epson is confident that demand for its HTPS will continue to grow.

“Epson has consistently strived to develop leading-edge products of the HTPS panels,” said Nobuyuki Shimotome, deputy chief operating officer of Epson’s Visual Products Operations Division, “Epson will expand and enhance its HTPS lineup with panels that contribute to the outstanding color brightness, detailed images, energy efficiency and reliability of 3LCD projectors.

*According to Epson research (as of the end of September 2013)

Related information
To learn more about the advantages of HTPS panels, visit http://global.epson.com/products/htps/ .

To learn more about 3LCD technology, visit http://www.3lcd.com.

Kaspersky Lab launches free app for secure web browsing on iPhone and iPad

PETALING JAYA, October 23, 2013 - Kaspersky Lab is pleased to announce the release of a new free app to ensure users are safe while surfing the web on their iPhone and iPad devices. The new Kaspersky Safe Browser for iOS is now available from the Apple App Store.

Like any Internet user, iPhone and iPad owners can fall victim to cyber attacks which use social engineering techniques. The most widespread example of this is phishing, which tricks users into providing their personal information through the use of fake websites or mass mailings that use the names and logos of well-known companies. The user could be tricked into sharing their passwords to a social networking site, email address, Apple ID account, and more.

The risks are even bigger for anyone who uses a mobile device for banking and financial transactions.

According to a recent B2B International survey, 38% of mobile device owners use their gadgets to perform financial transactions, while one in three users encountered phishing attacks that posed as ebanking services.

Kaspersky Safe Browser for iOS blocks links to phishing sites and other web-based resources that can be dangerous for users. The new application can also filter content according to selected user criteria. This way, users can automatically block pornographic sites, material containing violence or profanity, gaming sites, social networks, chats, forums and more. There are 17 pre-defined content filtering categories in total.

Kaspersky Safe Browser for iOS provides real-time protection from known and emerging threats thanks to data it receives from Kaspersky Security Network, which processes threat intelligence delivered by users of Kaspersky Lab security products from around the world. The new application is compatible with Apple devices running iOS 5 and higher.

Alexey Chikov, Product Manager at Kaspersky Lab, commented: “Quite a few users of Apple products believe their devices are immune to cyber attacks. This false sense of security makes it easier for cybercriminals to execute their plans. Kaspersky Safe Browser for iOS protects users from dangerous content whenever they go online.”

Kaspersky Lab has solutions which can protect all kinds of devices – from smartphones to servers.

This autumn the company released Kaspersky Internet Security - Multi-Device, a key solution for home users designed for all Internet-connected devices: Windows and Mac- based computers as well as Android-based smartphones and tablets. The release of Kaspersky Safe Browser for iOS brings iOS-based devices into this secure ecosystem.

CRADLE AND MYEG TO SET UP CRADLE SEED VENTURES FUND 1

Fund marks Cradle’s first steps into the equity investment market

KUALA LUMPUR, 23 October 2013— Early stage ecosystem influencer, Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle) will be extending its funding services into early stage venture capital with the planned establishment of Cradle Seed Ventures Fund 1 (CF1).

The fund, which will be worth RM60 million, is a result of a public-private partnership MOU between Cradle and e-government services provider, My E.G. Services Bhd (MyEG) and will be disbursed through a privately owned company, CF1.

SIGNED AND SEALED: Yang Berusaha, En. Nazrin Hassan, Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd group chief executive officer shakes hands with Y. Bhg Dato?Dr Norraesah Hj Mohamad, executive chairman MY E.G. Services Bhd after signing the MOU to launch Cradle Seed Ventures. The ceremony was Witnessed by (standing from left) Y. Bhg Dato?Sallehudin Othman, chairman, Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd, Y. Bhg Dato?Azman Mahmud, deputy chief executive officer I, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and a representative from MyEG, Dato P.S. Jaya.

In the MOU, Cradle will invest RM 40 million while MyEG brings in another RM 20 million into the fund.
Cradle is planning to incorporate a private limited company called Cradle Seed Ventures (CSV), which will be responsible for mining deal flows and selecting recipients for CF1.

Nazrin Hassan, group chief executive officer of Cradle, said the new company is aimed at preparing Cradle to enter the equity investment market and to address the lack of venture capital funding in the early stages.
“With this fund, we can provide an alternative to local technology startups and stem the outflow of early stage deals to Singapore,” he said.

“Cradle has been successful in providing funding via grants and this would be a natural evolution for us to enter into the venture capital space by providing early growth stage funding,” Nazrin said adding that CSV will also help Cradle be more sustainable in its efforts to play a more active role in bringing up technology startups.

Once established, CF1 will be disbursed in amounts of between RM1 million and RM3 million to innovative high potential technology startups particularly in the Information Communications Technology (ICT), telecommunications and engineering fields within the specified National Key Economic Areas (NKEA), namely electrical and electronics, healthcare, business services, financial services, wholesale and retail; and medical.

Up to 30% of the fund can also be used to fund overseas startups with the intention of bringing talent and technology knowledge back to Malaysia.

“With this, we hope to also strengthen Malaysia’s pool of knowledge workers that will enable Malaysia to be competitive in terms of innovation advancement in South East Asia,” said Nazrin.

He added that Cradle has found a good partner in MyEG who shares similar views in building the early stage ecosystem.

“We also felt that MyEG has the experience to add value to CF1. In its 13 years experience of enabling the delivery of e-services to Malaysians in a convenient yet secure manner, we believe MyEG can better work with us to engage both the Government and public sector on how to further improve the development of Malaysian technology startups,” he said.

This would not be the first time Cradle and MyEG are joining hands to support promising startups. The two organisations have been funding finalists from the business pitch television show, Make the Pitch, since 2011.

Among the companies they have collaborated to fund are Fashionvalet, I-Money and Piktochart.

“We have been collaborating to support startups for a while now, so I think it is only logical that we partner up again to help startups but this this time on a larger scale,” Nazrin said.

Dato’ Dr Norraesah Hj Mohamad, MyEG executive chairman said MyEG is happy to collaborate with Cradle in establishing CF1 as both organisations share a common goal of investing in the future leaders of the Malaysian technology industry.

She added that MyEG and Cradle have opened a new door for early stage technopreneurs who are seeking funds and support to bring up their products and businesses.

“Malaysian technopreneurs today have limited avenues to raise early stage capital. Hopefully we can provide an additional avenue for them and help them compete more effectively with their regional counterparts,” Norraesah said.

She also hopes that CF1 will be the leading VC in the region that will invest in many globally competitive and leading edge tech startups.

Gear Up for TanksAsia Season 2

Prizes worth USD100,000 up for grabs

October 23, 2013 — Wargaming, the leading free-to-play MMO developer and publisher, today announced the second season of the TanksAsia Masters. A total prize pool of USD100,000 are up for grabs through this final segment of the TanksAsia League.

64 teams across the Asia Pacific region registered for the second season and the first match of the Challenge series started on 20 October.

The league is divided into three tiers – Challenge, Regular and Masters. Each week, battles will be fought to determine the tier placings of the teams and points will be awarded accordingly. At the end of the season, the points earned by the teams will be accumulated.

The Challenge Series is a weekly online qualifier which will see the top four teams advance to Regular Series to compete in a round of eight against four teams (5th-8th placing in Season 1). During the first week, the top four teams from Challenge Series will be promoted to Regular Series to compete against the top four teams from Season 1 on the Master Series. Subsequently, the bottom four teams of Masters Series will be demoted to Regular Series. Teams who are demoted from Regular Series are automatically seeded into Challenge Series.

Following the completion of the league, there will be a playoff series where the six winners of each country’s National Series are joined by the 4th and 5th place holders from the Master series to play in a series of knock-out matches. Winning teams of the quarter finals will compete against the 2nd and 3rd place holders from the Masters series in the semi-finals and the winning teams will then face off against the 1st placed team from the Masters series in the Grand Final.

The semi-finals and the Grand Final will be held at the Taipei Game Show in January next year. The winning team of TanksAsia Season 2 will walk away with US$60,000 in prize money.

“The game is turning into a great communication platform that combines gaming communities of different countries and regions. TanksAsia Season 1 was the first competitive league in this region and we were encouraged by the overwhelming response.

We are encouraged by the response to Season 2 and will certainly strive to organise more regional activities and tournaments for our supporters in the future,” said Jasper Nicolas, General Manager of Wargaming SEA.

At the end of TanksAsia Masters Season 2, all eight teams that have managed to enter the Playoffs round will be awarded points accordingly based on their performance throughout the Playoffs phase. These points are permanent for every team.

The teams with the most points across all three season of TanksAsia will compete for the opportunity to represent their countries in the global Wargaming.net league. Details for the global Wargaming.net league will be announced later.

Over 10 Million Downloads of BBM for Android and iPhone in the First Day

BBM achieves top ranking in the App Store in over 75 countries within the first 24 hours

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – In just 24 hours BBM™ has been downloaded over 10 million times by Android™ and iPhone® users, one of the best single-day openings for a mobile app to date. BBM, the premier private social network from BlackBerry® (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), is available for free in the App StoreSM and Google Play™ for immediate download.

BBM also quickly rose through the rankings on the App Store to be the number one free app in more than 75 countries in the first 24 hours, including the US, Canada, the UK, Indonesia and most of the Middle East. User ratings in both the App Store and Google Play are overwhelmingly positive, earning BBM 60,000 five-star reviews on Google Play from about 87,000 reviews.

“This has been an incredible launch for BBM across Android and iPhone devices. The mobile messaging market is full of opportunity for BBM. We intend to be the leading private social network for everyone who needs the immediate communication and collaboration of instant messaging combined with the privacy, control and reliability delivered through BBM,” said Andrew Bocking, Executive Vice President, BBM at BlackBerry.

BBM users, old and new, are enjoying the following features:
• BBM Chat – Enjoy real, immediate conversations with friends on Android, iPhone and BlackBerry smartphones. Not only does BBM let people know their message has been delivered and read, it also shows them when a contact is responding to a message.
• More than chat – With BBM, customers can simply and instantly share files such as photos and voice notes. Multi-person chats are a great way to invite contacts to chat together.
• Get in the Group – BBM Groups lets users invite up to 30 friends to chat together, as well as share photo albums, calendars and files.
-more-
• Post Updates and stay in the know – BBM lets people post a personal message, profile picture and a current status, and lets contacts see statuses instantly in Updates.
• Your unique PIN – Every BBM user has a unique PIN that maintains privacy, so users are not required to ever give out their phone number or email address to a new or casual contact.

Android and iPhone users will have access to BBM Voice and Video calling, as well as the new community building tool – BBM Channels – in the near future.

For more information on BBM, or to download BBM, please visit www.bbm.com. Follow @BBM on Twitter for the latest news and updates.

TM CONTINUES TO EMPOWER MALAYSIAN SMEs WITH ENHANCED UNIFI PACKAGES

SMEs can now work and collaborate more efficiently with UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365 …

In its continuous effort to empower Malaysian SMEs through the usage of ICT, Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) today launched the all-new UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365, an enhancement to its existing UniFi business packages. The new and enhanced package was launched by Azizi A Hadi, Executive Vice President, SME, TM, together with Azizah Ali, Director, Small and Medium Solutions and Partners, Microsoft Malaysia.

The newly launched UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365 is the product of the continuous collaboration between TM and Microsoft which offers cloud-powered communications facilities and the Microsoft Office 365 productivity suite through TM’s Managed Information Communications Technology (ICT)/Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) arm – VADS Berhad (VADS) – to Malaysian businesses throughout the country.

Azizi A Hadi, Executive Vice President, SME, TM (7th from right) and Azizah Ali, Director, Small and Medium Solutions and Partners, Microsoft Malaysia (6th from right) with the respective development teams from TM SME and Microsoft Malaysia at the recent launch of the latest enhancement of TM’s existing UniFi business packages – UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365.

Commenting on the new offering, Azizi shared, “After the proven partnership between TM and Microsoft in enhancing TM’s Office in a Box™ package, we are very optimistic that the on-going strategic partnership between both organisations will continue to be a success, allowing us to continue playing our roles in equipping businesses with comprehensive business solutions, tailor-made to meet their increasingly sophisticated requirements. With this latest enhancement, Malaysian SMEs can fully leverage the benefits of ICT and focus on their core business operations to increase their productivity, expand their market reach and serve their end customers better.”

“TM is constantly exploring new and innovative ways to assist local SMEs to move up the value chain and achieve greater success. We hope that these efforts will also further cement TM’s presence as the nation’s trusted and reliable end-to-end ICT solutions provider with the capability, skills and knowledge to adapt to the customers’ growing businesses,” added Azizi.

Speaking on the collaboration, Azizah said, “Many businesses are realising the power of cloud computing technology for its ability to leverage IT capabilities more cost-effectively, creating new ways to serve new customers, and even operating a business without IT limits. Microsoft’s Office 365 helps businesses take care of their IT needs so they can concentrate on what they do best: managing and driving their businesses.”

Azizi A Hadi, Executive Vice President, SME, TM (left) and Azizah Ali, Director, Small and Medium Solutions and Partners, Microsoft Malaysia checking out the features of the latest enhancement of TM’s existing UniFi business packages – UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365.

“Microsoft, as a world leader in cloud solutions for businesses, is committed to transforming Malaysia together with TM. For over 20 years in Malaysia, we have collaborated with key partners like TM to achieve the country’s aspirations to become a high-income economy and through realising the goals stated in Malaysia’s Economic Transformation Plan and Digital Master Plan. This is a winning partnership - not only are we both strongly aligned with the same vision to empower Malaysian businesses with world-class ICT solutions to transform the way they work, we are both able to bring this vision to life. There is no other IT company in the world besides Microsoft that offers strong, credible solutions for businesses of all sizes. At the same time, TM is Malaysia’s leading broadband provider – together, we are the ideal partners to help Malaysian SMEs fully realise the full benefits of Office 365 and cloud computing!” Azizah added.

This newly introduced UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365 bundling will enable businesses to enjoy high speed internet with speeds up to 50Mbps, competitive call rates and two (2) complimentary Microsoft Office 365 user licenses worth RM1,008. Through this new enhancement, subscribers of UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365 can collaborate more efficiently and at the same time reduce their operating cost by utilising Microsoft Office productivity tools, such as email, web conferencing, instant messaging and online versions of Microsoft Office. With TM, business is now available all year round, all around the world.

UniFi with Microsoft® Office 365 is available to the market and is open for subscription starting from today. Upgrade promotions are also available until 31 December 2013.

In conjunction with the launch, TM, in collaboration with Microsoft are flying in Dr. Nitin Paranjape for the Completely Efficient Seminar which will take place on 12 November 2013 from 9.00 am – 2.00 pm at the TM Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur. One of only 28 Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVP) worldwide, Dr Nitin is an award-winning speaker and Office Productivity consultant who has coached over 155,000 professionals across 1,100 organisations worldwide. His innovative approach to unearthing maximum value from the New Office and related products has made his productivity workshops a hit across Asia Pacific.

The workshop is free but seats are limited. To book your seat, kindly contact Sakinah Hussain at sakinah.hussain@tm.com.my, Nor Athiqah Amin Teo at norathiqah.aminteo@tm.com.my or Chang Kit at 03-2179 3483, or email a-chwong@microsoft.com.

For more information on TM and its products and offerings for the SME segment, log on to www.tm.com.my.