A Milestone in Global Cinematic Experience

Kuala Lumpur – 20th January 2012 – Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd, a MSC-status Company, signed a landmark Joint-Venture Agreement with Harvis Technologies Pvt. Ltd – a leading Evergreen Indian Movies Rights holder from India today.

The joint-venture is a co-production to Digitally re-create an Original Black and White Tamil Feature- film into Colour, audio enhanced to multi-channel DTS and with the re-created movie converted to stereoscopic 3D.

T. Vimalanathan, Director (Technology & Solutions) of Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd, stated “We are proud to announce and be part of this co-production venture with Harvis Technologies Pvt. Ltd. of India. Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd will function as the technology-enabler and Harvis Technologies Pvt Ltd as the movie rights provider cum audio production partner. Together, we will team to achieve a  World’s First by converting the audio-enhanced, colorised version of the movie into stereoscopic 3D.”

It is noteworthy to mention that the Technology to be used in Colorizing Black & White movies is developed by Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd. This not only is a Malaysian First but also a First outside of the U.S. employing a technically superior Colorisation Technology.

M.L.S. Lakshmikanth, Director of Harvis Technologies Pvt Ltd stated “There is a pleasant surprise in store for viewers. An all-new 3D-animated song sequence of Kamal Hassan & Rajnikanth will be featured as an additional component to the existing movie. It will be created using performance- capture technology on the dynamic characteristics of both the lead actors- Kamal Hassan & Rajnikanth”.

MDeC Vice President, Kamil Othman said, “there are lots of promising areas where Malaysian creative companies can co-operate with Indian partners as Malaysian companies possess very strong technology know-how, world-class technologies and ready pool of very creative talents.”

This partnership will also enhance further collaborations between Malaysia and India on a higher level for the creative content industry for both countries. As a stepping stone, many more creative companies could follow in the steps of Perfect  Colour Sdn Bhd  to provide service for high-end digital restoration works as well as other creative technology know-how for the consumption of the global market. As a spin-off  business of content restoration, a Digital Library which could store millions and millions of hours of content will follow suit for Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd.

As a new IP of which has been converted into digital format, the content could be exploited onto various platforms ranging from mobile, IPTV, DVD’s, set top boxes, theatrical and etc. This end-to-end solution for digital content restoring and digitisation work is also the first step for Malaysia to take a leap into the “Digital Malaysia Age”.

The entire audio of the ORIGINAL movie’s soundtrack will be re-scored by a  renowned  Music Director from the Tamil Film Industry in Chennai, India. Additionally, audio special effects and extra musical instruments will be utilised to spice the movie’s soundtrack in order to appeal to the present-day audience. The newly-composed Audio soundtrack will be re-recorded in India.

Kumaran Thanimalai, Director (Strategic Planning) of Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd, stated “The project is to create a new IP out of an existing asset, aimed at creating a new business model that will give a new lease of life to analogue-based assets. With original movies being given  digital “revamps”, vintage movies can once again be commercially exploited worldwide through Theatrical, Satellite, free TV and home entertainment releases”.

Sajeera Nair, Director (Corporate Communications) of Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd, said “We have positioned ourselves to be a Service Provider to vintage movies copyright owners worldwide. With a multitude of vintage movies available in many languages worldwide, Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd is ideally poised to be a Global leader in this niche market”.

About Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd

Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd a MSC- status Company duly incorporated in Malaysia is the regional leader in the Digital Restoration, Colorisation and Stereoscopic 3D conversion of Movies. Having her core strength in developing cutting-edge Multimedia technologies, the Company has carved a niche for herself in delivering streamlined and efficient end to end services in pre-production, post-production and final deliverables functioning in the capacity as a Service Provider to end customers.

About Harvis Technologies Pvt Ltd

Harvis Technologies Pvt Ltd, a Company duly incorporated in India, is a leading Copyright holder of Evergreen Tamil movies from India. The Company also thrives on her total Audio production abilities of music direction, re-scoring, re-instrumentalization, re-recording and re-mastering.

Perfect Colour Sdn Bhd is deeply grateful to Honourable Dato Veerasingam and to Mr RamG & Dr. Arun  for having guided the Company through its various stages of development without whose invaluable guidance, we would never have reached thus far.

About MSC Malaysia (www.mscmalaysia.my)

MSC Malaysia is a national initiative spearheaded by the Malaysian Government to promote both the national ICT industry and provide a test-bed for the global ICT industry. MSC Malaysia provides a conducive, enabling environment designed to facilitate companies to harness the full potential of ICT and multimedia technologies. With its ideal business environment coupled with the availability of talent resources, the MSC Malaysia has attracted participation from major global ICT companies to develop and host their leading-edge technologies in the designated MSC Malaysia Cybercities. MSC Malaysia also provides the ideal growth environment for Malaysian ICT SMEs to transform themselves into world-class companies. Come explore the unlimited opportunities of the ICT world by locating in MSC Malaysia and be part of our global network of businesses and connected communities.

About Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC)

Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC) is a unique high powered government-owned corporation, established to facilitate the development and promotion of MSC Malaysia, the premier Malaysian ICT initiative. MDeC is tasked to advise the Malaysian Government on ICT legislation and policies, develop MSC Malaysia as a key growth driver of the economy and set breakthrough standards for ICT and multimedia operations. MDeC also promotes MSC Malaysia locally and globally, as well as supports companies which are located within the MSC Malaysia designated areas. MDeC works closely with various parties and government agencies to ensure that MSC Malaysia offers a conducive enabling environment for companies to harness the full potential of ICT and multimedia technologies.

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Former President of Ericsson Finland, Laitala brings more than 17 years of experience in thetelecommunications industry.

Ericsson, the world’s leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators,recently announced the appointment of Janne Laitala as President of Ericsson Malaysia & Sri Lanka.

Mr. Laitala will be responsible for developing and strengthening Ericsson’s business in the country, and will lead a team of approximately 700 employees in Malaysia and Sri Lanka.

Prior to this position, Laitala was the President of Ericsson Finland, and was an active industry spokesperson in his capacity as a board member of the Finnish Federation for Communications and Teleinformatics (FiCom), a co-op organization for the ICT industry in Finland.

A graduate of Espoonlahti Business College in Finland, Laitala began his career in Ericsson in 1994, working his way through many levels of sales and managerial accomplishments until his promotion as President of Ericsson Finland in 2006.

Commenting on the appointment, President of Ericsson Southeast Asia and Oceania Arun Bansal said, “I am pleased about Janne Laitala’s appointment as the President of Ericsson Malaysia & Sri Lanka.

His experience will allow Ericsson to explore opportunities for growth and development with its customers in Malaysia and Sri Lanka, particularly in the areas of mobile broadband.

His extensive experience in other Ericsson markets around the world has equipped him with a unique set of skills to lead operations and strengthen our business.”

Janne Laitala said: “Ericsson is ready to meet the needs and challenges of our customers and partners in the telecommunications industry in Malaysia.

We have helped shape the local telecommunications landscape since 1965 and we remain committed to this market and to our stakeholders.”

“We are focusing on bringing about our global vision of a Networked Society where people, knowledge, devices and information are networked for the growth of society, life and business a world where people are empowered, businesses are strengthened and societies are revitalized,” he added.

About Ericsson

Ericsson is the world’s leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators. Ericsson is the leader in 2G, 3G and 4G mobile technologies, and provides support for networks with over 2 billion subscribers and has the leading position in managed services.

The company’s portfolio comprises mobile and fixed network infrastructure, telecom services, software, broadband and multimedia solutions for operators, enterprises and the media industry.

The Sony Ericsson and ST-Ericsson joint ventures provide consumers with feature-rich personal mobile devices.

Ericsson is advancing its vision of being the “prime driver in an all-communicating world” through innovation, technology, and sustainable business solutions.

Working in 175 countries, more than 90,000 employees generated revenue of SEK 203.3 billion (USD 28.2 billion) in 2010.

Founded in 1876 with the headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, Ericsson is listed on NASDAQ OMX, Stockholm and NASDAQ New York.

By Asia Pacific Correspondent :

Rani Wemel

LTT Global Brands | 14 Jalan SS3/33, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE, Malaysia

T: 03-7877 7023 | F: 03-78777806 |

rani@LTTCOM.com / rani@techistan.com

150,000 residents in the East Coast of Sabah enjoy full suite of Maxis services with new Maxis Centre in Sandakan.

150,000 residents in the East Coast of Sabah may now enjoy the full suite of Maxis Berhad’s (“Maxis”) services with the new Maxis Centre in Sandakan, including paying bills over the counter or via 24-hour payment kiosks, registering for new services, subscribing to value-added services as well as experiencing the latest smartphones and tablets.

Maxis, Malaysia’s leading integrated communications service provider, has enhanced its distribution channel in Sabah to reach out to customers in Sandakan as well as the surrounding towns of Beluran and Telupid.

The new Maxis Centre, which is located at Prima Square in Sandakan, is the first store built to serve customers in the East Coast of Sabah.

With the addition of this new store, Maxis continues to expand its presence in Sabah, adding on to its two existing Maxis Centres in Kota Kinabalu, as well as five Maxis Exclusive Partners (MEPs) and over 1,200 Hotlink dealers across Sabah.

Maxis is also providing more value to its customers in Sabah by introducing a new prepaid wireless broadband package, which allows customers to surf the internet instantly by just purchasing the Prepaid Internet Starter Kit at a very special price of RM99 (retailing nationwide at the regular retail price of RM138).

The starter kit comes with a Maxis modem and a broadband data SIM card preloaded with 700 MB of data and 30-day access.

This special prepaid broadband promotion, which was launched last month, is currently ongoing and exclusive to Sabah customers only.

Anthony Ho, Maxis’ Head of Sabah Region, said, “We are committed to the community in Sabah and on enriching their lives with the latest in communications offerings.

With the opening of this new Maxis Centre, we continue to reach out to more Maxis customers in Sabah, especially to the communities in Sandakan, and surrounding towns of Beluran and Telupid, providing them with added ease and convenience in accessing our communications services on seamless high speed networks. On top of that, we are providing better value to customers in Sabah with our exclusive prepaid broadband offering, bringing them connectivity at an affordable price, wherever they are.”

“Like all our Maxis Centres, this new outlet in Sandakan is equipped with an extensive range of Maxis products and services.

Most importantly, with the opening of this new store, we are fully committed to building a relationship of trust with customers by delivering great customer experiences.

Our frontline staff will continue to adopt good customer service practices that are very much embedded in the Maxis culture, enabling us to better meet the ever-changing communication needs of our customers,” Anthony added.

In addition to opening the new outlet in Sandakan, Maxis has also invested in several customer service centre facelifts to enhance the overall customer service experience in Sabah.

It has renovated the Maxis Centre in Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu to enable the delivery of more efficient services, leading to less waiting time, and to enable Maxis’ new devices to be better showcased.

Maxis has focused its initial efforts on Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, two key towns in Sabah, as they have the highest population figures within the state.

Maxis is also continuously looking into ways to provide more value to its customers in Sabah through localised promotions, product offerings and targeted customer service innovations. In addition to its new prepaid wireless broadband package, Maxis is now offering its Sabahan customers affordable Internet SIM packs as well as attractive Hot Ticket top-up options; for use with PCs and various mobile devices.

About Maxis Berhad

Maxis Berhad with its consolidated subsidiaries (together, ‘Maxis’) is the leading integrated communications service provider in Malaysia with 12.8 million mobile subscriptions as of 30 June 2011.

Since 1995, Maxis’ Malaysian business has been providing a full suite of communication services on multiple platforms to satisfy the needs of individual consumers, small and medium enterprises, and large corporations in Malaysia.

Maxis has pioneered and led the Malaysian market in providing innovative mobile products and services.

It was the first to launch 3G services, Maxis3G, in March 2005. In September 2006 it was among the world’s first to use HSDPA, a high-speed upgrade of the 3G network.

In December 2009 it was first to introduce to Malaysia, HSPA+, the latest advancement in 3G/HSPA network capabilities, to further enhance its wireless broadband services.

Maxis is a leading regional content player with 42.7% of non-voice revenue as part of mobile revenue and with over 50% or 7.7 million of its customer base being active mobile internet users.

It continually explores global and local best partnerships with partners such as Western Union and PayPal to bring the latest relevant content first to customers.

Maxis actively builds a local content ecosystem with partners to forward the Malaysian content industry.

It was also the first telecommunication service provider to bring the BlackBerry™ and Apple iPhone™ smart phones to Malaysia. The company in April 2009 unveiled the first-in-the world commercial near field communication service, which enables customers to use their phones for wave and pay transactions.

Maxis’ growth and strong track record of enabling innovation, excellent customer experience and value to stakeholders have won the company numerous awards over the years which include Asia’s Best Employer Award 2010 from Singapore’s Employer Branding Institute.

Maxis was nominated as Best Mobile Operator in 2010’s World Communication Awards for leadership in service innovation.

Maxis’ vision is to bring advanced communications services to enrich its customers’ lives and businesses, in a manner that is simple and personalised, by efficiently and creatively harnessing leading edge technology, and delivering a brand of service experience that is reliable and enchanting.

Maxis has also been active in carrying out Corporate Responsibility programmes to serve the communities.

Since 2002 Maxis has been dedicated to working in unison with the Ministry of Information Communications and Culture Malaysia (‘KPKK’) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (‘SKMM’) on the Bridging Communities corporate responsibility programme to increase Malaysian access to the digital platform.

Asia Pacific Correspondent : Rani Wemel

LTT Global Brands   |  14 Jalan SS3/33, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE,  Malaysia

T: 03-7877 7023       |    F: 03-78777806   |

email: rani@LTTCOM.com / rani@techistan.com

Maxis has reduced 16,000 tonnes of CO2 emission in 2010 through green initiatives, on the way to meeting target of 27,000 tonnes in 2011.

As part of its initiative to offset the carbon footprint created by its base stations, staff of Maxis Berhad (Maxis), Malaysia’s leading integrated communications service provider, today took part in a tree planting programme organised by Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA).

The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS), Sathya Sai Organisation, Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) and the Forestry Department of Selangor.

About 80 Maxis staff and their family members participated in the tree planting session which took place at the Sungai Renggam River Bank in Section 15, Shah Alam.

Today’s event marked the third and final tree planting session as part of the “Shah Alam River and Trees for Life” campaign.

The previous two sessions were held on 26 June and 24 July at the Sungai Damansara River Bank in Section 13, Shah Alam.

Overall, Maxis staff have planted 7,500 trees; 1,500 trees were planted last year at the Raja Muda Musa Peat swamp and 6,000 trees were planted in the last three tree planting sessions in Shah Alam Mark Dioguardi.

Maxis’ Chief Technology Officer, presented a mock cheque representing Maxis’ contribution of RM90,000 to YBhg.

Dato’ Hj. Mohd Jaafar bin Hj. Mohd Atan, Mayor of Shah Alam. Commenting on Maxis’ participation in this tree planting initiative, Mark said, “At Maxis, we have always been conscious about the need to care for the environment and to do our part in reducing our carbon footprint.

Maxis’ involvement in this tree planting programme is just one of the many green initiatives we have undertaken to give back to the environment.

We have met our target of reducing at least 16,000 tonnes of CO2 emission in 2010 through our green initiatives and are on our way of meeting our target of 27,000 tonnes in 2011.

We will continue to be a responsible corporate citizen when conducting our business operations.”

In addition to participating in this tree planting initiative, Maxis has taken various other steps to reduce its impact on the environment.

The Company modernised its end-to-end network equipment for better energy efficiency and through its network transformation programme, Maxis replaced key network elements with best-in-class technologies which are energy-efficient at the same time, such as 3G single radio access network and (Single RAN) and the Mobile Soft Switch (MSS) system.

Maxis also adopted more energy efficient DC rectifiers and outdoor shelters which are innovative systems to manage heat in existing shelters and to drive down energy deployment.

It has also drawn on renewable energy solutions such as solar to replace diesel powered remote base stations and advocated network-sharing, with over 54% of its base station sites shared with other operators.

Maxis Berhad with its consolidated subsidiaries (together, ‘Maxis’) is the leading integrated communications service provider in Malaysia with 12.8 million mobile subscriptions as of 30 June 2011. Since 1995, Maxis’ Malaysian business has been providing a full suite of communication services on multiple platforms to satisfy the needs of individual consumers, small and medium enterprises, and large corporations in Malaysia.

Maxis has pioneered and led the Malaysian market in providing innovative mobile products and services.

It was the first to launch 3G services, Maxis3G, in March 2005.

In September 2006 it was among the world’s first to use HSDPA, a high-speed upgrade of the 3G network. In December 2009 it was first to introduce to Malaysia, HSPA+, the latest advancement in 3G/HSPA network capabilities, to further enhance its wireless broadband services.

Maxis is a leading regional content player with 42.7% of non-voice revenue as part of mobile revenue and with over 50% or 7.7 million of its customer base being active mobile internet users.

It continually explores global and local best partnerships with partners such as Western Union and PayPal to bring the latest relevant content first to customers. Maxis actively builds a local content ecosystem with partners to forward the Malaysian content industry.

It was also the first telecommunication service provider to bring the BlackBerry™ and Apple iPhone™ smart phones to Malaysia.

The company in April 2009 unveiled the first-in-the world commercial near field communication service, which enables customers to use their phones for wave and pay transactions.

Maxis’ growth and strong track record of enabling innovation, excellent customer experience and value to stakeholders have won the company numerous awards over the years which include Asia’s Best Employer Award 2010 from Singapore’s Employer Branding Institute.

Maxis was nominated as Best Mobile Operator in 2010’s World Communication Awards for leadership in service innovation.

Maxis’ vision is to bring advanced communications services to enrich its customers’ lives and businesses, in a manner that is simple and personalised, by efficiently and creatively harnessing leading edge technology, and delivering a brand of service experience that is reliable and enchanting.

Maxis has also been active in carrying out Corporate Responsibility programmes to serve the communities.

Since 2002 Maxis has been dedicated to working in unison with the Ministry of Information Communications and Culture Malaysia (‘KPKK’) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (‘SKMM’) on the Bridging Communities corporate responsibility programme to increase Malaysian access to the digital platform.

For more information, please visit: maxis.com.my

Maxis offers pilgrims 40 minutes of free talk time with Saudi Telecom SIM cards.

Maxis postpaid customers enjoy 30% discount on roaming voice calls made to Malaysia.

Malaysian pilgrims performing the Haj can easily connect with their loved ones who are travelling with them, and also those who are back home, with a range of services recently introduced by Maxis Berhad (‘Maxis’).

In conjunction with the up and coming Haj season, Maxis, the country’s leading integrated communications service provider, will be offering a special Saudi Telecom Company (STC) SIM card which enables pilgrims to make or receive calls and SMSes within Saudi Arabia at local rates.

The SIM card comes preloaded with 25 Saudi Riyal prepaid credit, which offers customers approximately 40 minutes of free talk time.

With assistance from Tabung Haji, the SIM cards will be distributed free of charge to the pilgrims at various departure locations, namely Selangor (Kelana Jaya), Johor Bahru, Penang, Terengganu, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, before they leave for Saudi Arabia. In total, Maxis will be distributing 17,000 special STC SIM cards to pilgrims.

Additionally, Maxis postpaid customers enjoy an exclusive 30% discount on roaming voice calls made to Malaysia, for both fixed and mobile numbers.

This offer is valid from 1 October until 15 December 2011. Maxis postpaid roamers also enjoy unlimited data roaming for RM48 per day during the same period.

These new service offerings from Maxis were announced in conjunction with the launch of the Sahabat Korporat Tabung Haji programme which was held today at the Lembaga Tabung Haji headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, and officiated by YB Major General Dato’ Seri Haji Jamil Khir bin Haji Baharom, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department. Representing Maxis at the event was Mariam Bevi Batcha, Maxis’ Vice President of Corporate Affairs.

Who presented a mock cheque representing Maxis’ contribution of communications products and services worth RM750,000 to Lembaga Tabung Haji as one of this year’s corporate partners for the 2011 Haj pilgrimage season.

Maxis is proud to be part of the Sahabat Korporat Tabung Haji programme for the fourth year running.

The Haj and Umrah pilgrimages are among the most enriching and spiritual experiences for Muslims. Maxis is pleased to be part of their momentous journeys by providing pilgrims with communications services that enable them to seamlessly connect with their loved ones in Saudi Arabia and back home in Malaysia, especially while traveling.

Maxis is committed to continuously enhancing its service offerings for pilgrims so that they enjoy peace of mind during their Haj and Umrah pilgrimages.

This new offering comes on the back of Maxis’ recently introduced Ramadan services which included the mZakat service. The service provided convenience to Maxis’ Muslim customers by enabling them to pay their Zakat Fitrah via SMS, anytime and anywhere.

Maxis also partnered with Hong Leong MSIG Takaful Berhad (HLM Takaful) to offer customers additional Islamic insurance (takaful) coverage worth RM2,000 for the contents of their home from 1 August to 16 September.

About Maxis Berhad

Maxis Berhad with its consolidated subsidiaries (together, ‘Maxis’) is the leading integrated communications service provider in Malaysia with 12.8 million mobile subscriptions as of 30 June 2011.

Since 1995, Maxis’ Malaysian business has been providing a full suite of communication services on multiple platforms to satisfy the needs of individual consumers, small and medium enterprises, and large corporations in Malaysia.

Maxis has pioneered and led the Malaysian market in providing innovative mobile products and services.

It was the first to launch 3G services, Maxis3G, in March 2005. In September 2006 it was among the world’s first to use HSDPA, a high-speed upgrade of the 3G network.

In December 2009 it was first to introduce to Malaysia, HSPA+, the latest advancement in 3G/HSPA network capabilities, to further enhance its wireless broadband services.

Maxis is a leading regional content player with 42.1% of non-voice revenue as part of mobile revenue and with over 50% or 7.8 million of its customer base being active mobile internet users.

It continually explores global and local best partnerships with partners such as Western Union and PayPal to bring the latest relevant content first to customers.

Maxis actively builds a local content ecosystem with partners to forward the Malaysian content industry.

It was also the first telecommunication service provider to bring the BlackBerry™ and Apple iPhone™ smart phones to Malaysia.

The company in April 2009 unveiled the first-in-the world commercial near field communication service, which enables customers to use their phones for wave and pay transactions.

Maxis’ growth and strong track record of enabling innovation, excellent customer experience and value to stakeholders have won the company numerous awards over the years which include Asia’s Best Employer Award 2010 from Singapore’s Employer Branding Institute.

Maxis was nominated as Best Mobile Operator in 2010’s World Communication Awards for leadership in service innovation.

Maxis’ vision is to bring advanced communications services to enrich its customers’ lives and businesses, in a manner that is simple and personalised, by efficiently and creatively harnessing leading edge technology, and delivering a brand of service experience that is reliable and enchanting.

Maxis has also been active in carrying out Corporate Responsibility programmes to serve the communities.

Since 2002 Maxis has been dedicated to working in unison with the Ministry of Information Communications and Culture Malaysia (‘KPKK’) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (‘SKMM’) on the Bridging Communities corporate responsibility programme to increase Malaysian access to the digital platform.

Asia Pacific Correspondent : Rani Wemel

LTT Global Brands   |  14 Jalan SS3/33, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE,  Malaysia

T: 03-7877 7023       |    F: 03-78777806   |

email: rani@LTTCOM.com / rani@techistan.com

While the West leads the world in terms of an attractive place for IT firms to work, more Asian nations are moving up the ladder.

According to a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).

Asian economies are closing the gap on the West in terms of their IT competitiveness.

A study showed, as they strengthen copyright protection and implement regulatory reforms.

The US retained its position as the world’s most competitive IT industry this year, followed by Finland and Singapore.

Europe dominated the top 20 places in a competitiveness index, which was based on criteria such as foreign investment policies, infrastructure, enrollment in higher IT education, patent registries, copyright protection and access to capital.

However, seven Asian economies made it to the top 20 Singapore (3), Australia (8), Taiwan (13), Japan (16), New Zealand (18), South Korea (19) and Hong Kong (19) up from six in the previous survey in 2009.

Malaysia moved up 11 notches to 31st, while India climbed 10 places to 34th. Singapore advanced six paces.

Malaysia and India recorded the sharpest improvements among the 66 economies surveyed worldwide.

the current market turmoil and the 2008 financial crisis, which have adversely affected Western economies, have boosted Asia’s rise.

BSA is a global industry group that works for copyright protection and counts among its members some of the world’s biggest technology firms.

China was in 38th place in the global index, up one notch, but needs to improve its copyright protection environment.

TED is a global series of conferences driven by the passion of “Ideas Worth Spreading”. TED is a platform that brings together the world’s most fascinating thinkers and doers to share their life stories. TED has hosted speakers such as Bill Gates, Al Gore, Jamie Oliver and David Blaine.

This year TEDxKL, in its third year has as its theme “We have a secret”and it focuses on everyday people, objects, and subjects which seem ordinary but can be somewhat extra ordinary.

FlexiRoam Main Idea Partner TEDxKL believes in spreading great ideas and our technology makes it cost effective to enable users to receive and make unlimited amount of calls to Malaysia without changing to a new international mobile number, said, founder Jef Ong.

TEDxKL speakers this year comprised of Yap Kwong Weng – ecretary General, United Nations Association of Singapore,Dinesh Nair – Grey Hat Hacker, Zlwin Chew – Magician & Mentalist,Yogesh Arora – Consultant Chef, Design A Cuisine,Chen Pelf Nyok – Turtle Conservationist & Marine Biologist, Zubin Mohammad – Contemporary Arts Performer, TiC – Digital Musicians,Jamal Raslan – Spoken Word Poet,Anas Zubedy – Unity Advocate & Founder, Zubedy, Vishen Lakhiani – CEO, Mindvalley, Nadira Ilana – Writer & Upcoming Director and Durreen Shahnaz – Founder & Chairperson, Impact Investment Exchange.

For the participants of TEDxKL, not only experienced the awesome presentations and conversations but in addition received free accounts from FlexiRoam to help them spread ideas when they are roaming.

About FlexiRoam

A prepaid international mobile roaming service that allows you to stay connected to home (Malaysia) while traveling overseas. For only RM10 per day, FlexiRoam enables users to receive and make unlimited amount of calls to Malaysia without changing to a new international mobile number. To find out how it can work for you visit http://flexiroam.com/how-it-works/

About TEDxKL

TEDxKL is 3rd in a series of yearly TED like event in Kuala Lumpur. TEDxKL is licensed by TED.com. More information available at www.tedxkl.com .

By Asia Pacific Correspondent : Rani Wemel

LTT Global Brands | 14 Jalan SS3/33, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE,Malaysia

T: 03-7877 7023 | F: 03-78777806 |

rani@LTTCOM.com / rani@techistan.com

Malaysian Software Testing Board (MSTB) launches the Quality – Test Assist Programme (Q-Tap) to help local companies build software testing capability.p>

Kuala Lumpur, 21 April 2011: The Malaysian Software Testing Board (MSTB) has unveiled Quality – Test Assist Programme (Q-Tap), specifically designed to assist local companies and organisation acquire software testing skills and develop the capability to conduct professional testing on their own products.

(left- to-right) Amiruddin Jaafar Sidek, Director, Malaysian Software Testing Board, Fathil Sulaiman Ismail, Managing Director, Mesiniaga Berhad, Mastura Abu Samah, President, Malaysian Software Testing Board, YB Datuk Hj Fadillah bin Yusof, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Dr. Gopi Kurup, CEO, TM Research and Development, launching the Quality – Test Assist Programme (Q-Tap), designed to aid local companies acquire professional software testing skills.

CEOs, marketing directors, and heads of the IT departments from multinational companies, SMEs, and the government sector, attended the event launched by Datuk Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation.

An agreement was also signed between MSTB and Telekom Research and Development at the launch ceremony for Telekom Research and Development’s participation in Q-Tap.

Mastura Abu Samah, President, Malaysian Software Testing Board, and Dr. Gopi Kurup, CEO, TM Research and Development, signing an MOU at the launch of Q-Tap. Witnessing the signing agreement are (l-r) Fathil Sulaiman Ismail, Managing Director, Mesiniaga Berhad, YB datuk Hj Fadillah bin Yusof, Depity Minister, Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Amiruddin Jaafar Sidek, Director, Malaysian Software Testing Board.

“Though TM R&D’s quality framework includes software testing, CMMI, ISO compliance and certification, TM R&D has embarked on Q-Tap to formalize and strengthen our in-house software testing capability to ensure professional testing for our products to meet the required quality assurance. Q-Tap will expose our team to the latest testing tools and methodologies used globally. The continued support of the program is essential in ensuring that Malaysia has the necessary software testing capability and capacity which is an important and integral part of the national ICT R&D aspirations”, said Dr. Gopi Kurup, CEO, TM Research and Development.

Q-Tap is another programme introduced under the Malaysia Software Testing Hub (MSTH), and is an integral part of the Malaysian government’s concerted effort to develop the growth of software testing in the country. The program includes training and certification of members of the software testing teams from participating companies and organisations. Throughout the duration of the programme, participants will be exposed to the testing tools and the methodologies employed at Q-Lab, in addition to consultancy and guidance from highly experienced specialists from Q-Lab.

According to MSTB President Mastura Abu Samah, Malaysia has the potential to become the regional hub for software testing within the next five years. “The software testing industry in Malaysia is developing robustly – and it has critical value because it can provide beneficial returns to the country.”
Mastura adds that the net value of the global software testing market, as verified by TechNavio, a report published by Infiniti Research Limited, is projected to be worth US$18.3 billion by 2013.

Q-Tap is also aimed at helping participating companies and organisations generate highly skilled and certified professionals in the software testing and software quality assurance (SQA).

“Specialisation in this field will contribute towards fulfilling out national aspirations in attaining the status of a high-income and high-productivity economy,” believes Mastura. “This is aligned to the approach adopted for the Economic Transformation Plan (ETP) based on 10 Primary Premises as outlined in the 10th Malaysia Plan. It is also identified as a new source of economic growth.”

In addition, says Mastura, the software testing industry has a strategic value to Malaysia in terms of direct monetary returns, and the growth of other industries through the improvement in product quality, services, and work culture.

“Growth demand for software testing services is expected to increase with the deployment of software across all sectors,” says Mastura.

Fathil Sulaiman Ismail, Managing Director, Mesiniaga Berhad who was present summarized this initiative when he said, “Through its various programs including Q-TAP, MSTB is dedicated to driving improvements in software implementations. Such software is used in technology based products. It is also used by organisations in their internal systems which are at the core of  their operational processes. In short, better software translates into better products and better companies, thus greater national competitiveness. Mesiniaga is thus very supportive of the MSTB agenda.”

During the event, Mastura also announced that SOFTEC 2011, themed ‘Test It Right,” will be held from 6 – 8 July. The event, comprising a series of tutorials and workshops, will feature eight keynote speakers who are leading authorities in the global field of software testing and software quality assurance.

According to Mastura, response to SOFTEC 2011 has been encouraging. “It is a strong indication that the SOFTEC conference has made a positive impact internationally and is recognised by the global software testing and SQA fraternity.”

SOFTEC 2011 aims to provide statkeholders in the Malaysian software testing industry with a unique opportunity to interact and get industry updates from some of the world’s renowned software testing experts, practitioners, and thought leaders.

MSTB is a voluntary and non-profit organisation representing the national industry interests in promoting the software testing profession. Also as part of the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), MSTB leads the accreditation process and certification regulations for the country’s software testing industry.

Story Covered ByTechistan’s Asia Pacific Correspondent :
Rani Wemel
LTT Global Brands | 14 Jalan SS3/33, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE, Malaysia
T: 03-7877 7023 | F: 03-78777806 |
rani@LTTCOM.com / rani@techistan.com

Petaling Jaya, 1 April 2011: NGT Solutions, one of Malaysia’s specialists in voice and data compression technology, today launched Peanut, the first mobile security application in the country that protects data communications at handset level by encrypting information stored on the phone and shared between users. The increasing dependence on mobile phones to store and send confidential information has necessitated a need to secure data against unauthorized access.

There seems to be a sudden demand and concern on mobile security by users especially in the areas of mobile banking, mobile health and mobile insurance. “Encryption is done prior to and during data delivery to eliminate security concerns raised by unprotected access to a phone’s interface that bounces data off international servers,” says Datuk J.L. Solomon, Executive Chairman of NGT Solutions.

Peanut’s ability to password-protect information and encrypt data on the phone’s handset provides privacy andsecurity useful to government, military, business, law enforcement, and general mobile users. It offers services unavailable on native phone applications including identity management, private contacts, message organisation, restricted messages, remote wipeout, backup, restore, auto-expiration, scheduled message delivery, activation and deactivation, anti-piracy, and traceability. Specific implements can also be customized to protect communication between individuals in private groups.

Peanut also ensures text messages are protected during transmission by providing a secure over-the-air (OTA) channel. This allows the exchange of private and encrypted messages between Peanut users who can only access the information by keying in the right password. The application locks for a limited time if the wrong password is entered three times. “Peanut was designed to ensure maximum data protection for users,” says Solomon. “Security threats are common and this application affords them protection without compromising the telcos’ service efficiency and quality.” According to the latest statistics, the mobile population in Malaysia currently exceeds 28 million users.

Peanut is written as a Java application but is customized to interact with various Smart phone operating systems including RIM (BlackBerry), Symbian (Nokia, LG, Sony), Android, and J2ME devices. Support for iPhone and Microsoft Windows will be launched soon. Peanut is 1MB in size and can be quickly downloaded via www.ngst.com.my/peanut.

NGT Solutions is currently in discussions with operators to offer this solution on a prepaid basis which will soon be available through a payment engine with multiple payment mechanisms.

By Asia Pacific Correspondent : Rani Wemel
LTT Global Brands | 14 Jalan SS3/33, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE, Malaysia
T: 03-7877 7023 | F: 03-78777806 |
rani@LTTCOM.com / rani@techistan.com

ABOUT NGT SOLUTIONS (M) SDN. BHD.

NGT Solutions (M) Sdn Bhd (NGTS) was established in 2001 and has evolved to become a leading provider of turnkey telecommunication solutions in the area of Data, Voice and Multimedia (DVM) solutions. NGTS’ innovative solutions to valued clients over the years have enabled the company to improve its profitability, flexibility, and quality in meeting their customers increasing demand. NGTS has have deployed more than 350 telecommunication switches since 1996 by a group of dedicated individuals in the areas of installation, testing, commissioning, link establishments, and training. The continued supply of quality, innovative and NEXT GENERATION TECHNOLOGIES SOLUTIONS to valued clients over the years has made NGTS a trusted brand among the major Telco players both locally and overseas. www.ngst.com.my

ABOUT LOMENT

Loment is an integrated communications, technology and marketing company located in Naperville, IL USA. Loment combines visual and graphic design, web design, database systems and mobile technologies into products and services that directly benefit the end user. Peanut, an enhanced text messaging application, is the first of the many applications offered by Loment focusing on Privacy & Security for SMS messages. Our goal is to enhance the end user experience without any changes to network infrastructure, support multiple Smartphone operating systems, models and technologies, including Tablet devices. For more information on
Loment, log on to www.loment.net.

Maxis customers will be the first to enjoy the latest, revolutionary Android device, the * Google Nexus S, also known as the “Google Phone”. Maxis Berhad (“Maxis”), Malaysia’s integrated communications service provider, today announced its exclusive rights to the smart phone, as it continues to lead in the Android market in Malaysia by providing the latest and widest choice of Android devices. The device is the first Android smart phone to feature the latest Android Operating System (“OS”) 2.3, also known as the Gingerbread OS (Android 2.3).

Jean-Pascal Van Overbeke, Chief Operating Officer of Maxis Berhad said, “Maxis is focused on delighting our customers and enriching their lives with the latest, innovative devices to keep up with their ever-changing lifestyle needs and demands. We were the first communications provider to bring Malaysians the smartphone experience, allowing them to conveniently access the web for work and play from the palm of their hands.”

He continues, “Today, Maxis is again the first to bring our customers the revolutionary Google Nexus S, the new jewel in our extensive range of Android devices. The market is becoming increasingly mobile; many of our consumers are part of a new generation of go-getter’s and jet-setters. Our leadership position enables us to forge partnerships with leading device manufacturers such as Samsung to ensure that Maxis customers experience the latest and most advanced devices first. Their experience is further enhanced by the fact that Maxis today has the widest broadband footprint in the country, enabling them to enjoy the features of the smart device on seamless high-speed mobile data networks.”

Launched Nexus S by Jean-Pascal Van Overbeke, Chief Operating Officer
of Maxis Berhad and Yu Jai Sul,Managing Director,Samsung Malaysia Electronics Sdn. Bhd.

Speaking at the launch of Nexus S, Mr. Yu Jai Sul, Managing Director, Samsung Malaysia Electronics Sdn. Bhd. said, “Samsung and Google are working hand-in-hand with Maxis to make the best Android smartphone experience available to the Malaysian market. The Nexus S will give you both functionality and a stunning user-experience as it integrates Samsung’s world-class hardware and award-winning technology with exciting new features.”

Maxis customers would be able to access popular Maxis applications such as Maxis Movies and Maxis Finder301 from this fastest Android phone to date. The device is available for purchase by Maxis customers with any data plan at affordable prices. See http://maxis.com.my/personal/android/Android_Phones.asp?iStruct=0:2:0.

Maxis was the first to introduce the BlackBerry and iPhone to Malaysia, and has the widest range of Android devices in the market. The company presently offers Malaysia’s widest variety of smartphone devices, encompassing all major mobile operating systems. With an investment of RM1.44 billion in 2010, Maxis successfully modernised and solidified its network, including growing its network infrastructure to support data growth with a record number of base stations rolled out i.e. more than 1,250 3G sites and 1,400 HSPA sites, continuing with network quality enhancement, expanding into new geographical areas and augmenting 2G network. With its end-to-end smart network, Maxis provides the best user experience from simple voice usage to meeting the growing demand for data-intensive applications delivered across an exciting range of smart devices.

Maxis aspires to fulfill the dreams of our customers through the best that communications technology and human creativity can offer; making our customers lives better in ways that matter.

Jean-Pascal Van Overbeke, Chief Operating Officer of Maxis Berhad and Yu Jai Sul, Managing Director, Samsung Malaysia Electronics Sdn. Bhd. viewing and experiencing the Nexus S

About the Google Nexus S
The new “Gingerbread” OS contains user interface improvements for simplicity and speed. It allows for faster and more intuitive text input as well as one touch word selection and copy or paste functions. It gives users improved power management, better control over applications and also provides for new ways of communicating and organizing materials on their mobile phone.

The Google Nexus S is sleek in appearance, with a 4” contour display; this slim device featuring a more ergonomic design in terms of style and feel. The brilliant touch screen provides an unmatched viewing experience and is powered by a 1 GHz Hummingbird processor which produces rich 3D graphics as well as providing for faster upload and download times. Equipped with a 5 megapixel rear facing camera and camcorder as well as a VGA front facing camera, the Google Nexus S comes with 16GB of internal memory for data storage.

The powerful device also includes existing Android features such as portable WiFi as well as Near Field Communication (NFC) support, a feature that future proofs the device as it will enable users to use it for mobile payments as soon as the infrastructure is in place.

Media Representatives checking out the Nexus S at the launch

About Maxis Berhad

Maxis Berhad with its consolidated subsidiaries (together, ‘Maxis’) is the leading integrated communications provider in Malaysia with 13.92 million mobile subscriptions as of 31 December 2010. Since 1995, Maxis’ Malaysian business has been providing a full suite of communication services on multiple platforms to satisfy the needs of individual consumers, small and medium enterprises, and large corporations in Malaysia.

Maxis has pioneered and led the Malaysian market in providing innovative mobile products and services. It was the first to launch 3G services, Maxis3G, in March 2005. In September 2006 it was among the world’s first to use HSDPA, a high-speed upgrade of the 3G network. In December 2009 it was first to introduce to Malaysia, HSPA+, the latest advancement in 3G/HSPA network capabilities, to further enhance its wireless broadband services.

Maxis is a leading regional content player with 41.5% of non-voice revenue as part of mobile revenue and with over 50% of its customer base being active mobile internet users. It continually explores global and local best partnerships with partners such as Western Union, PayPal, the Barclays Premier League and the Lotus Racing Team in Formula One to bring the latest relevant content first to customers. Maxis actively builds a local content ecosystem with partners to forward the Malaysian content industry.

It was also the first telecommunication service provider to bring the BlackBerry™ and Apple iPhone™ smart phones to Malaysia. The company in April 2009 unveiled the first-in-the world commercial near field communication service, which enables customers to use their phones for wave and pay transactions.

Maxis’ growth and strong track record of enabling innovation, excellent customer experience and value to stakeholders have won the company numerous awards over the years which include Asia’s Best Employer Award 2010 from Singapore’s Employer Branding Institute. Maxis was nominated as Best Mobile Operator in 2010’s World Communication Awards for leadership in service innovation.

Maxis’ vision is to bring advanced communications services to enrich its customers’ lives and businesses, in a manner that is simple and personalised, by efficiently and creatively harnessing leading edge technology, and delivering a brand of service experience that is reliable and enchanting.

Maxis has also been active in carrying out Corporate Responsibility programmes to serve the communities. Since 2002 Maxis has been dedicated to working in unison with the Ministry of Information Communications and Culture Malaysia (‘KPKK’) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (‘SKMM’) on the Bridging Communities corporate responsibility programme to increase Malaysian access to the digital platform.

For more information, please visit: maxis.com.my

* The Android Nexus S has a touchscreen-only device has a 4-inch curved “contour” Super AMOLED display, 1-Ghz Hummingbird processor, 16 GB of internal storage, and a 1500-mAH battery rated for 6.7 hours of talk time. The handset showcases some of the new hardware features of Android 2.3, such as support for near-field communication (NFC), which can be used for close-range contactless data exchange. It was available to T-Mobile users or available at Best Buy unlocked.