Corporate Malaysia

by TMR

IN TODAY’S work environment, employees often spend more time at the workplace than at home. This shift underscores the importance of creating a work setting that goes beyond its traditional function as merely a place to work.

Recognising this, many organisations are placing greater emphasis on enhancing the aesthetics of their workplace. The modern workplace is no longer just a space to perform tasks, but it has evolved into an environment that inspires creativity, promotes well-being and reflects the identity of the organisation.

These aspects have become fundamental in contributing to both individual success and overall well-being. 

Nurturing a balanced lifestyle becomes a crucial foundation for enhanced productivity and satisfaction in both personal and professional life. One of the ways to bring life into the working environment is through the integration of art. 

Art has the power to transform a dull workspace into an inspiring and stimulating environment.

In embracing this spirit, Infinity Logistics & Transport Sdn Bhd (Infinity Logistics) took the initiative to paint a large mural at Warehouse D4, Northport Distripark Sdn Bhd (NDSB). 

NDSB is a distribution centre with warehousing, storage and other associated facilities managed by Northport (Malaysia) Bhd (Northport), a subsidiary of MMC Port Holdings Berhad (MMC Ports). 

This vibrant mural has transformed what was once an ordinary warehouse wall into a beautiful visual narrative that symbolises the shared values and strong partnership between Northport and Infinity Logistics.

On June 17, a ceremony was held at Warehouse D4 to officially unveil the mural. Present were MMC Ports CEO Datuk Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Infinity Logistics MD Datuk Seri Chan Kong Yew, Northport CEO Fakhrul Azhar Tajudin, and Port Klang Authority chairman Ean Yong Hian Wah.

Embracing the concept of diversity, the mural, designed and painted by renowned local street artist Dr Caryn Koh, was completed in just 13 days. 

The artwork features four employees from both companies, representing different races and job functions. Depicted in a unified and dignified stance, the characters highlight the strength of diversity and the business synergies that exist between Northport and Infinity Logistics.

Koh was born in Kuala Lumpur and is currently based in Swindon, United Kingdom. A graduate of Dasein Academy of Art, she was honored with the Outstanding Achievement Award in Fine Arts. 

She has participated in numerous group exhibitions across Malaysia, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. She has also painted murals in different regions including London, Bristol, Swindon, Leicester, Blackburn and the Lake District in the UK, as well as Malaysia, Spain, Germany, the Philippines and Jogjakarta.

“I would like to commend this proactive initiative by Infinity Logistics, which has invested their own resources to bring this project to life. The mural art project highlights the strong synergy between Northport and our business partner in a shared commitment towards creating a more conducive and engaging workplace. 

“It is not just about the artwork, but it represents a deeper sense of belonging and unity among the employees of both companies as economic frontliners serving the nation,” Azman said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Chan noted that logistics and ports thrive because of the people who power them – working relentlessly to keep operations moving. 

“This mural captures their unity, diversity and unwavering dedication, with every expression telling a story of resilience. The smile reflects passion, the eyes reveal determination, the sweat speaks of hard work and the body posture embodies strength. 

“Through art, we breathe life into the industry, transforming aging spaces into symbols of identity and appreciation. By supporting Malaysian artists, we honour creativity while recognising the grit and perseverance of those who keep logistics and ports alive – because behind every movement, every milestone, every success, it is people who make it all possible,” he said.

Fakhrul acknowledged that the mural not only reflects the companies’ commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) values, but also demonstrates how public art can be a powerful medium for fostering shared awareness. 

“It shows how we can integrate our port operations with creative and purposeful spaces that appreciate the workers who have contributed to our success,” he said.

The mural stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision between Northport and Infinity Logistics in fostering an inclusive, engaging and inspiring workplace. 

Beyond its visual appeal, the artwork reflects both organisations’ commitment to unity, mutual respect and a vibrant corporate culture that values people as their greatest asset.

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MALAKOFF Corp Bhd, through its commercial and industrial (C&I) solar subsidiary, Malakoff Radiance Sdn Bhd (MRSB), has signed a memorandum of collaboration (MOC) with New Energy Asia Sdn Bhd to jointly deploy electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

This partnership aims to develop integrated solar and EV charging solutions to support carbon-free mobility, share technical expertise and resources for effective implementation and explore business opportunities across the ASEAN region.

The signing ceremony was held at Hilton Kuala Lumpur, KL Sentral, between MRSB director Nazersham Mansor and New Energy Asia CEO Li Min.

The signing was witnessed by Mohd Kopli Yunus, representing MRSB, and Hazrin Fazail Haroon, representing New Energy Asia.

New Energy Asia is a joint venture between Hicom Engineering and Hangzhou Flash Charge, and is currently exploring a strategic partnership with MRSB to support Malaysia’s transition to clean mobility.

This MOC formalises a collaboration focused on integrating advanced EV charging solutions with Malakoff’s solar infrastructure. Through this collaboration, both parties aim to leverage their respective expertise to accelerate the development and deployment of sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions across the country.

Commenting on the collaboration, Malakoff MD and group CEO Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajib said it reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Malakoff’s renewable energy (RE) portfolio through strategic partnerships that drive real-world outcomes.

“Recently, we secured our largest single-site deployment to date — a 4.22-megawatt peak (MWp) solar power purchase agreement with Hicom Automotive Manufacturers (M) Sdn Bhd – building on the success of a 2MWp installation at the same facility in Pekan, Pahang, which has already reduced grid electricity usage by around seven-gigawatt hour (GWh) and avoided nearly 5,489 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) in emissions.

“We see this collaboration with New Energy Asia as a natural extension of that momentum, enabling us to integrate clean mobility solutions alongside our solar infrastructure and deliver greater value across the clean energy ecosystem,” he said in a statement.

Malakoff is actively advancing the growth of its RE initiatives while ensuring Malaysia’s energy security remains uncompromised.

Through its business pillar, Malakoff Green Solutions, the company has built an RE portfolio of 173MW. This includes diverse projects such as large-scale solar, commercial and industrial solar installations, small hydropower generation and the implementation of carbon-free mobility infrastructure.

These initiatives highlight Malakoff’s steadfast commitment to its purpose of “Enhancing Life, Enriching Communities”, demonstrating the company’s dedication to fostering a sustainable and resilient energy future. — TMR

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Selangor steps up as a regional leader in industrial innovation, advancing digital adoption, smart manufacturing and high-value job creation 

by AUFA MARDHIAH 

THE upcoming Selangor Techsphere Summit will serve as a high-impact platform for knowledge exchange and business generation, connecting decision-makers with real-world solutions for industrial transformation. 

Organised in partnership with global industrial trade fair brand Hannover Messe, the event is designed to address key concerns faced by manufacturers — from cost-efficiency and digital adoption to product innovation and cybersecurity. 

Key themes for the summit include smart manufacturing, intelligent production systems and the integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud platforms, predictive maintenance, cyber security and 5G infrastructure. 

The agenda aims to bring these technologies to life through curated showcases and forum discussions. 

Hannover Fairs Asia Pacific Pte Ltd CEO Tim Bostridge highlighted that digitalisation and Industry X are coming through. 

He said most of the participating exhibitors — expected to be around 10 to 15 companies — will be larger, integrated solution providers showcasing advanced processing and next-generation manufacturing technologies. 

While the exhibition will be boutique in scale, Bostridge explained that the primary value for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups lies in the summit programme itself. 

“The best way to be involved is to attend the conference, engage with organisations and meet with others in the industry. The main driver is not necessarily for SMEs to exhibit, but to learn and connect,” he said at the soft launch of the summit. 

International participation will also be a highlight, with invited speakers and companies from across the region and beyond expected to showcase their innovations. 

Additionally, Bostridge said the summit reflects the strategic alignment between Hannover Messe’s global industrial platform and Malaysia’s ambition to become a future-ready manufacturing hub. 

“Malaysia and Selangor in particular, are investing in developing their industrial base and the future of industrial processes. 

“By running programmes in different regions, we can bring key topics from Hannover Messe into new markets and build relationships with organisations we might not otherwise engage with,” he added. 

Bostridge revealed that initial discussions began after Selangor state representatives visited Hannover Messe last year, which led to the idea of a regional platform rooted in the summit and conference format.

“This is something quite different from our traditional format. It is more focused around content and the summit programme. 

“But we believe there are very interesting developments happening here that align well with what Hannover Messe does,” he said. 

Bostridge also described Selangor as “not just embracing the future of industry, but engineering it,” and emphasised the state’s advantages in digital infrastructure, clean energy access and skilled talent. 

“For global companies seeking a future-proof industrial base, Selangor offers the full package,” he said. 

The summit also aligns closely with Selangor’s broader strategic agenda, particularly the Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1) and its mid-term review — key frameworks guiding the state’s push toward becoming a smart, liveable and prosperous state. 

A central focus will be on building capacity in high-complexity sectors, including electrical and electronics (E&E), sem conductors and information technology (IT), with the aim of attracting world-class companies and nurturing future unicorns. 

Concurrently, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the summit is part of the state’s wider ambition to cement its position as South-East Asia’s (SE Asia) premier smart state and Malaysia’s economic engine. 

He said events like this will not only support industrial transformation but also offer high-quality, better-paying job opportunities to young Malaysians. 

“In my engagement throughout Hannover Messe in 2024, I saw first-hand how important it was for governments to shape the future of the economy. 

“Selangor is no longer content with being a big-budget player in the technical space — we aim to place Selangor on the SE Asia’s map as the finest technological conglomerate in the region,” Amirudin said. 

He added that nothing beats the value of physical gatherings that bring together like-minded experts to exchange knowledge and explore collaboration opportunities. 

Established in 1947, Hannover Messe is headquartered in Germany and is globally recognised for its flagship industrial trade fair in Hanover, Lower Saxony. It operates more than 20 event brands worldwide, including in Germany, China, Mexico, Turkey, Singapore — and now Malaysia. 

The Selangor Techsphere Summit will be held on November 11–12 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). 

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

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Their job is dirty, dangerous and often invisible, but it is essential 

by HIDAYATH HISHAM 

BENEATH Kuala Lumpur’s busy roads and towering developments, a group of men spend their days clearing the city’s arteries — the underground drains and flood channels that keep everything flowing. 

Their job is dirty, dangerous and often invisible, but it is essential. 

Two of them — one just starting out, the other nearing retirement — show how grit and pride in honest work can still connect two generations together. 

Muhammad Zamri Zuhaidi Nizam, 19, a school-leaver from SMK Cheras, joined Alam Flora Sdn Bhd (Alam Flora), a subsidiary of Malakoff Corporation Berhad (Malakoff), about a year ago. 

At an age when many pursue desk jobs or social media gigs, he instead picked up a water jet and joined the operations team responsible for maintaining the city’s drains and waste management systems. 

“I have tried other jobs before, but for me, what matters most is not glitz and glamour, it’s your willingness to work. Here, I get new experiences every day,” he told The Malaysian Reserve (TMR). 

Muhammad Zamri’s first few weeks were physically demanding. He had to pass health checks, get vaccinated and train to operate drain-cleaning equipment. 

One of the toughest parts was learning to handle the water jet — a heavy, high-pressure hose used to blast through blockages. 

At first, it left his arms sore and tired, and he struggled to keep it steady. But even after the aches and awkwardness wore off, something else stayed with him. 

As he adjusted to the physical demands, Zamri said the job made him feel more active and healthier overall. 

He goes down into manholes, which he described as dark and dangerous, but those elements are what make the job interesting. 

“You can find all sorts of things down there,” he said. 

Muhammad Zamri has already encountered his share of surprises — from eels to the occasional monitor lizard. 

“Rats are normal. Sometimes you get eels, and once I saw a monitor lizard. Every experience teaches me something new,” he said. 

Some of his friends did not expect him to take on such work but he wears it with pride. 

“You do not need other people’s approval to do what you want, as long as it is halal,” he said. 

Muhammad Zamri is taking things one step at a time and, for now, is focused on gaining experience. 

“I like trying different things. As long as I can earn here, I’ll keep going. My big brothers here share their stories. They teach me and tell me what to avoid. I feel like being part of a family,” he said. 

That family includes men like K Manimaran, 59, a veteran worker who has been with Alam Flora for over 27 years. 

He is part of Team 911, a special flood response unit deployed during heavy rain or drainage emergencies. 

But beyond emergency response, the team is also part of Alam Flora’s broader daily mission to keep Kuala Lumpur clean and orderly. 

For Manimaran, the job feels like a second home. After more than two decades, he has built friendships, habits and a daily rhythm that he does not take for granted. 

“This job is a huge part of my life. I have been here a long time, and the people I work with feel like family. We help and understand each other — these relationships are what keeps me here,” he said. 

Like Muhammad Zamri, Manimaran has faced his share of tough tasks. The work can be long and physically demanding, with unpredictable weather and uncomfortable conditions, but he does not see these challenges as burdens. 

“Of course there are challenges, but I am used to it. I just focus on doing my job. At the end of the day, it is worth it when I know I have helped keep the city running smoothly — whether by preventing floods or clearing obstructions the public seldom sees,” he said. 

He finds meaning in the responsibility — not just in responding to floods or clearing blocked drains, but in knowing that what he does keeps the city safe and liveable. 

“It might not be the kind of job people talk about, but it is important. If no one does it, the city cannot function. That is how I see it,” he said. 

Over the years, Manimaran has watched younger recruits come in and find their foot- ing, just like Muhammad Zamri is doing now, and he is happy to offer advice when asked. 

“The younger ones are good. They are fast learners. I do not see them as juniors as we are all part of the same team,” he said. 

He hopes that more people will appreciate the work sanitation crews do, even if it is just through a simple gesture. 

Muhammad Zamri also wishes the public would take time to understand the people behind the city’s drainage system. 

“We are not looking for big rewards or accolades. Even a quick wave or a simple ‘thank you’ means something,” he said. 

Their message is especially timely ahead of Garbage Man Day, an international day celebrated annually on June 17 to recognise and appreciate the vital work of sanitation workers. 

For Muhammad Zamri, it is a day to reflect on the unseen roles that keep the city running. 

“We may not wear decorated uniforms, but we still play an important role in the city. Just because the work looks messy does not mean it is not meaningful,” he said. 

As the city continues to develop, both men agreed that the responsibility of keeping it clean cannot fall on workers alone. The public must play their part as well. 

“People throw rubbish into drains without a second thought. But when they clog, we are the ones who have to go in. If everyone just throws their trash properly, it would help a lot,” Muhammad Zamri said. 

With decades of experience behind him, Manimaran believes younger Malaysians have much to gain from embracing hands-on work like his — especially when it comes to building discipline, humility and a sense of purpose. 

“Do not look down on jobs like this just because they are tough. Every job has dignity if your intention is good. This work may be hard, but it is honest,” he said. 

For Muhammad Zamri, the job has helped him see the city in a new light. Watching the drains clean and the water flow smoothly reminds him why work like theirs matters — it keeps the city functioning. 

Neither man sought the spotlight. All they hope for is respect — not just on Garbage Man Day, but every day the rain falls — and every day the city depends on them. 

“We don’t need much. Just a little appreciation is enough,” Muhammad Zamri reiterated. 

Their shared philosophy is in line with Malakoff’s tagline, “Enhancing Life, Enriching Communities.” 

Garbage Man Day has been celebrated globally since 2011. It was founded by John D Arwood, who also established American waste disposal and demolition company Arwood Site Services.

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

The post Garbage Man Day: Honouring the workers who keep the city running appeared first on The Malaysian Reserve.