AWANI Review

When faced with financial pressures, many people turn to fast credit options, sometimes resorting to unregulated methods with high-interest rates and potential debt traps. Direct Lending strives to offer a safe and affordable alternative for borrowers who might be overlooked by traditional financial institutions.

Paramount Group CEO Jeffrey Chew discards the notion of "If it ain't broken, don't fix it”. Despite the property developer's current success in its core business, he says that it is precisely during periods of prosperity that the company needs to proactively embrace change to stay ahead.

As solar panel prices decrease, more Malaysians are turning to solar power. Verdant Solar CEO Zeth Lim notes a strong demand surpassing the current renewable energy capacity, and discusses ways to make the switch more accessible and attractive to everyone.

Today's global problems call for evidence-backed solutions, yet there's often a disconnect between science and policy. We explore how science diplomacy can lead change, whether in conflict prevention or addressing common challenges.

WeWork's bankruptcy filing shouldn't be misinterpreted as a broader industry downturn. Local operators Stephanie Ping and Andrew Yeow of WORQ say that as offices continue to pivot towards flexible working, so too does the demand for co-working space.

Urban centres globally, including Malaysia, have suffered decline over the years, as businesses and residents shift to suburbs and new business districts. Think City's Hamdan Abdul Majeed discusses efforts to combat stagnation, revitalise inner cities, and transform them into thriving hubs once more.

For decades, women's health has been underfunded and overlooked. Deepti Saraf of Roche Malaysia discusses the far-reaching consequences, from unequal care to economic impacts, and the ongoing efforts to bring about positive change.

There are many unspoken stereotypes that make it harder for women to succeed in the workplace. Azielia Anne and Malisse Tan shine a spotlight on the unique challenges women face in their careers and discuss breaking down gender biases.

Customer satisfaction is critical to business success, and in an era of rising expectations, outsourcing has become a strategic choice for many. Byron Fernandez, CIO of TDCX, explores the key elements that create great customer experiences.

While SMEs aren't currently required to disclose their ESG practices, this is changing as more countries mandate such disclosures. STACS Managing Director Benjamin Soh looks at the key issues companies need to prepare for, and the ripple effect of a new EU sustainability directive on Malaysian businesses.

The National Energy Transition Roadmap outlines strategies to boost Malaysia's clean energy sector. Azril Zainal, Energy Leader at Arup, unpacks the key components, highlights the clarity needed in Phase 2 of the roadmap, and discusses ways to bridge policy-action gap.

The rise of online learning platforms and advanced language models like ChatGPT has sparked a contentious debate on the value of traditional degrees and business schools. CEO, President, and Dean of Asia School of Business Sanjay Sarma sheds light on the emergence of 'job refugees', the concept of 'gig education' and the urgent need for educational leadership to adapt.

An alarming rise in job scams is putting countless people at risk of exploitation. Scott Stiles, Head of Fair Hiring, Asia at SEEK, brings his unique perspective of moving from grassroots social enterprise work to his current corporate role to shed light on the tactics used and the red flags to look out for.

What will the theme park of the future look like? Scott O'Neil, CEO of Merlin Entertainments, operator of LEGOLAND Malaysia, explores the future of theme parks and the importance of constant reinvention to stay ahead in the digital age.

Malaysia’s waste management faces significant problems as landfills are filling to capacity while waste is not reduced. Executive Director of Pamarai Sdn Bhd Pang Swee Lei introduces the Asher, a holistic green technology that turns trash into ash and talks about the importance of treating waste at source. 

With a strong focus on R&D, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park is making remarkable strides towards becoming a hotbed for cutting-edge tech. CEO Albert Wong discusses the city's potential to excel beyond finance and become a leader in innovation.

Gone are the days when marketing your business relied on distributing flyers and papers. Unifi Business' Sharliza Mohd Haris and Dattel CEO Ashran Datuk Ghazi discuss how SMEs can boost their growth by going digital.

With the aim of preserving the ocean and providing a cleaner fish for all, CEO of Umami Meats Mihir Pershad talks about developing lab-cultivated seafood that tastes good, nutritious, and better for the environment along with the challenges within the lab-cultivated meat industry.

Malaysia is a top outsourcing hub for major video game studios, but what if it could develop its own world-class video game IPs? Jeremy Choo, founder of Ammobox Studios, discusses how Malaysia can forge its own unique path.

The Rainbow Warrior dropped anchor in Port Klang last month to mark its second visit to Malaysia. Join ship captain Pep Barbal Badia and Greenpeace's Ting Siew Shuen on board as they talk about the fight for climate justice and the crew behind this iconic ship.

Oyen Pet Insurance has grown sixfold in the two years since its launch. Co-founders Kevin Hoong and Michelle Chin discuss their experience of building a digital-first pet insurance business and establishing credibility with pet owners.

Catherine Lian is the brain drain to brain gain success story for Malaysia.  After spending two decades overseas, she returned to become IBM Malaysia's Managing Director. She discusses the pressing need for bold policies to address the digital talent shortage, and why inclusive leadership matters.

Does Kuala Lumpur still have the charm to attract FDIs? Are tax incentives alone enough to lure investors? InvestKL CEO Datuk Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli discusses a new playbook for attracting business as cities around the world compete for investments.

Do women entrepreneurs find it harder than men to access funding? Gobi Partner co-founder Thomas Tsao and Dropee CEO Lennise Ng discuss what drives venture capital decision-making, if women-owned startups are a better bet and finding opportunities in a downturn.

The key to success is finding the right balance between growth and profitability. Rimini Street CEO Seth Ravin discusses how businesses can reduce cost and reallocate resources to key digital priorities to drive growth.