SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Gadget Singapore Ltd., a subsidiary of Gadget Korea, was established to drive the company’s global expansion. With its founding, the company launched the Superalink platform to provide eSIM-based data roaming services worldwide and solidify its position in the global market. Recently, Gadget Singapore became a full member of the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association), gaining international recognition for its technical reliability. GSMA full membership signifies the highest level of service quality and technological expertise, providing customers with the assurance of a globally recognized certification.
Superalink provides seamless connectivity anywhere in the world through innovative eSIM technology, allowing for easy data roaming without the need for a physical SIM card. As a GSMA full member, it ensures smooth compatibility and stability with global networks, offering customers fast and reliable communication services wherever they are.
The Korean platform ‘USIMSA’ recently surpassed 2 million users, achieving this milestone approximately seven months after surpassing the 1 million mark. This accomplishment demonstrates the platform’s growing acceleration and proven reliability in the domestic market. It also shows that customers trust the superior service quality and affordable pricing of the eSIM data roaming services provided by Gadget Korea. The satisfaction of these customers is reflected in the trust of the 2 million users.
Superalink is continuously improving its services to meet customer demands. Recently, it has enhanced service quality and expanded its network through new investments and MOUs with telecom operators across different continents. The Superalink eSIM service is easy to install and can be used immediately via a QR code, eliminating the need for complicated local procedures. To further maximize convenience, a feature enabling instant connection with a single button within the app is set to be added in the future. Users no longer need to swap SIM cards and can enjoy data roaming services anywhere in the world.
Why choose ‘Superalink’?
GSMA Full Membership: Internationally recognized reliability
Global network coverage: Stable communication networks built through partnerships with continental telecom operators
2 million users milestone: Proven service quality
Easy eSIM installation: Simple eSIM registration without hassle
Competitive pricing: High-quality data at reasonable rates
Immediate use: Receive a QR code instantly and start using it immediately in your desired country
Sang-hyuk Yu, CEO of Gadget Korea, stated, “The GSMA full membership is a crucial indicator that proves the global standard of our services. Additionally, the fact that 2 million customers trust and choose us is Gadget Korea’s most valuable asset. We will continue to provide the best services, and we look forward to more customers experiencing safe and efficient data roaming through Superalink’s global eSIM data roaming service.”
Popular streaming service Netflix just got a lot more pricey for Malaysians. Netflix has adjusted its plans for the Malaysian market across the board. The adjustment comes nearly a year after the increase of subscription prices in the U.S..
In Malaysia, the prices are increasing by about 10% across the board. The Mobile only plan will now set you back RM18.90 which is an RM1.90 increase from the previous pricing of RM17.00. The same RM1.90 increase also applies to the Basic plan which was priced at RM28.00 and is now RM29.90. The Standard plan is now priced at RM49.90 which is an RM4.90 increase of its previous price of RM45. The Premium plan sees an increase of RM7.90 from RM55.00 to RM62.90.
Screenshot of Netflix Sign Up Page taken on 15 November 2024.
This will be the second price adjustment for Netflix in Malaysia since its launch in 2016. The service revised its Standard plan price to RM28.00 in 2023. When the service launched, it introduced three plans at RM33.00 (Basic), RM41.00 (Standard) and RM51.00 (Premium). In 2019, the Mobile plan was introduced for RM17.00.
What Happens to My Subscription?
With the revision of the prices, there have been many users second guessing their decisions to subscribe to Netflix. However, it’s worth noting that if you are subscribed to Netflix directly, the service has indicated that any changes in pricing will be communicated in black and white through email a month before it goes into effect. At the time of writing, none of the writers and editors at techENT or their peers have received the email.
However, it seems like those who are already subscribed to bundles from Astro and Unifi TV will be seeing an increase in their prices in due time. Astro has confirmed that existing subscribers will not see a change in their subscription pricing until March 2025. There is no official word from Unifi TV yet. However, it has been reported that prices will be changing as of 21 November 2024. New subscribers regardless of how they are subscribed will be paying the newly adjusted prices.
There’s good news for those subscribed to Netflix with an extra member slot, you will continue to enjoy your plans at RM13.
Why is Netflix Increasing Its Prices?
Netflix has not officially commented on the price increase. However, according to their FAQ, the service regularly revises its pricing to adjust to current market conditions and address taxes which may be levied by local governments. This means that the company is adjusting to address inflation among other market realities including exchange rates.
However, it is more likely that Netflix is increasing their prices to address the increasing cost of maintaining their servers and also production costs for their original slate of programming. In Malaysia and Asia at large, this slate has expanded significantly since Netflix started out.
It’s also worth noting that Netflix pays licensing fees for shows on its service. Increase in these fees over the past few years and the rise in the number of competitors both internationally and locally will drive up pricing as marketing and licensing fees increase.
So, will you be continuing your subscription to Netflix? Let us know in the comments below!
Yes 5G is kicking off the festive season with a bang, offering Malaysians an incredible deal: 999GB of data for just RM1. This limited-time offer is part of the telco’s latest “KAWKAWKAW” campaign that kicked off on November 5th, 2024 and will run until February 5th, 2025.
Source: Yes
With Yes 5G’s prepaid and postpaid offerings, you’ll be able to use this data in multiple ways. You’ll even be able to use the data with your hotspot which is shared with your monthly data quota on certain Yes 5G plans. Here are a few ideas of what to do with 999GB of data at your fingertips:
Gaming: Enjoy up to 50 hours of seamless, lag-free gaming with NVIDIA’s GeForce Now service.
Entertainment: Binge-watch your favorite shows and movies, or stream music for hours on end.
Productivity: Work remotely, attend virtual meetings, and collaborate seamlessly.
Content Creation: Upload high-quality videos and photos, and live stream without worrying about data limits.
The KAWKAWKAW promo will allow you to access 999GB of uncapped 4G and 5G data on Yes’s network. You can also purchase the KAWKAWKAW add-on multiple times throughout the campaign period. However, the data cannot be stacked; you will only be able to buy the add-on after the previous data allocation is depleted or expires.
Amelia Henderson Joins the Yes 5G Family
To make the KAWKAWKAW campaign even more exciting, Yes 5G has partnered with popular Malaysian actress and singer, Amelia Henderson. As the brand’s newest ambassador, Amelia will help spread the word about Yes 5G’s commitment to providing affordable and high-quality 5G services.
SINGAPORE, Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Shengshu Technology officially releases Vidu 1.5, marking the global debut of long-context capabilities similar to those in Large Language Models within its visual model, showcasing a new emergent capability. This is a major upgrade to its groundbreaking multimodal generative models. Vidu 1.5 introduces the world’s first Multiple-Entity Consistency capability, which seamlessly integrates people, objects, and environments to create stunning video effects—something that couldn’t be achieved, until now.
With Vidu’s Multiple-Entity Consistency feature, images with no relation to each other, be it characters, objects and even environments, can be integrated into a single video featuring all three characteristics. Moreover, the resulting generated video from Vidu 1.5 is capable of ensuring visual consistency even with complex inputs that require the processing of multiple subjects or environments – and this has not been possible until today. For example, if Vidu 1.5’s generated video features multiple entities, their unique attributes will remain distinct throughout the footage, instead of character traits that tend to blend or become inconsistent midway.
Multiple-Entity Consistency works by enabling users to upload multiple images—for instance, a photo of a person, an image of a rose detailed outfit, and also a shot of a moped. Vidu 1.5 will combine these images into a single continuous, fluid video featuring the person dressed in a rose-accented shirt, riding on a moped. Or by uploading two images of the same individuals alongside a photo of the pyramids, and using a prompt like “a man looking up at the pyramids,” Vidu 1.5 would seamlessly combine these elements, delivering a cohesive video that aligns perfectly with your expectation.
Taking it a step further, Vidu 1.5 also introduces Multiple AngleConsistency, a feature that allows you to either generate videos using any inputted images as references or by uploading three photos of a single subject. The model ensures visual continuity and fills in missing details, providing a seamless 360-degree view of the subject. The result is a cohesive video that accurately presents the subject from any angle, enhancing realism and dynamic storytelling. And this also applies to facial movements, accounting for a more natural-feeling continuity between subtle facial expressions.
Beyond presenting stronger character emotions, Vidu 1.5 also introduces Advanced Control. This enables greater precision over camera movements, angles, and cinematic techniques, of course without detracting from the visual consistency that would otherwise yield unwanted transitions or skipping between frames. In fact, advanced cinematography styles including adjustable dynamic ranges offer a higher degree of control over speed and scale resulting in complex shots like zooming, panning and tilting or a combination of these.
With Vidu 1.5, we’ve significantly enhanced detail generation and clarity at up to 1080p, bringing to life visuals like never before. For instance, you can now clearly see the intricate patterns on a cake or the vivid texture of a sizzling steak amid flames and oozing red juices. This level of detail transforms the storytelling experience, making every frame richer and more immersive.
Vidu 1.5 expands its appeal to animators and anime creators with Expanded Animation Styles, including Japanese fantasy and hyper-realistic styles. This upgrade caters to both casual creators of short-form content and professional filmmakers, delivering polished, production-ready videos with superior clarity and precision compared to other generative AI platforms.
The breakthrough in Vidu 1.5’s controls lie in major advancements Shengshu Technology has made in semantic understanding. The update offers more nuanced language comprehension, interpreting text prompts with impressive precision and enabling video outputs that better reflect complex storytelling and scene requirements. Last but not least, Vidu 1.5 generates a 4-second clip in just 25 seconds, showcasing Vidu’s ongoing advancements with improving the speed and accuracy of generating video.
“The future of content creation is here, and it is powered by the limitless possibilities of AI,” said Jiayu Tang, CEO and co-founder of Shengshu Technology. “Together, we can ignite a global wave of inspiration, reshaping industries, and democratizing creativity. At the core of this transformation lies the ability for anyone to engage in high-quality content production, unlocking new opportunities and breaking down traditional limitations.”
Founded in March 2023, Shengshu Technology is a leading innovator in deep generative models, specializing in advanced diffusion probabilistic techniques. In 2022, Shengshu introduced the world’s first new technical framework, U-ViT, which explores the fusion of Diffusion Models and Transformer architectures for a wide assortment of multimodal generation tasks. Shengshu Technology made the leap from research to commercialization with the launch of its flagship product, Vidu, in July 2024. This AI video generator enables creators to bring their visions to life, whether for art design, game development, film post-production, or social content creation. Our mission is to develop the world’s most advanced multimodal generative models, seamlessly integrating text, images, videos, and 3D content. We are at the forefront of applying generative AI to art, design, gaming, filmmaking, and social media, with the goal of enhancing human creativity and productivity.
Fujifilm is no stranger to the vlogging and content creation sphere. The company has recently found a niche among content creators and vloggers thanks to its refined approach to mirrorless cameras. This approach is being refreshed again in its most compact and portable form with the Fujifilm X-M5.
The new Fujifilm X-M5 continues Fujifilm’s signature design that mimics classic cameras. With a textured surface that mimics the feel of leather and a coloured accent to complete the look, the X-M5 completes your kit with a little style and flair. The X-M5 is available in Silver or Black. It’s also the lightest entry into the X series coming in at only 355g. The camera achieves this by keeping all the essentials and doing away with components that may add bulk – like the viewfinder. However, they’ve ensured easy visibility with a flip-out digital display that can rotate to face the front making content creation alone a non-issue.
That said, it’s not just about style and design with the Fujifilm X-M5. The new compact camera comes with the X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor. The 26.1-megapixel sensor allows it to shoot detailed pictures and even supports high-resolution video. It supports video shooting at 6.2K resolution at 30p. This is complemented by the X-processor 5 high-speed image processing engine that not only enables high-quality image and video capture but also enables an AI-augmented autofocus that allows you to shoot high-speed objects with ease.
The Fujifilm X-M5 also comes with a film simulation mode that allows it to simulate shooting with different film types. This mode will enable you to simulate up to 20 different looks. It’s one of the cornerstone features of the camera with a dedicated dial on the camera’s body. In addition, the X-M5 also comes with a powerful digital stabilizer that allows you to shoot steady images and video even in shaky conditions.
The camera is also compatible with Fujifilm’s X mount. This opens the doors to exploring more complex shooting experiences with Fujifilm’s wide selection of Fujinon lenses which are also compatible with other X series cameras. However, keeping in line with the thin and compact feel of the Fujifilm X-M5, there are also compact pancake lenses that are also available for the X-M5.
Pricing & Availability
The FujiFilm X-M5 is available in Black and Silver. It will be available for pre-order until 14 November 2024. During the pre-order period, purchases of the camera will come with freebies worth RM1,178 including a 128GB memory card, an LED light and more.
The Fujifilm X-M5 body will be retailing for RM3,948. The kit with an XC15-45mm kit lens will be retailing for RM4,398.
ASUS Malaysia is expanding its ExpertBook lineup, bolstering its ASUS Business offerings. The two new laptops—the ExpertBook P1 and ExpertBook P5—are designed specifically for professionals and businesses in different segments. Both laptops offer a balance of performance, portability, and security.
ExpertBook P1: A Reliable and Affordable Option
The ExpertBook P1 is a more budget-friendly option for professionals who prioritize essential computing tasks. It features a sleek and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. Powered by the latest Intel Core processors, the P1 delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks.
The new offering under the ASUS Business portfolio comes with a 13th Generation Intel Core i7 Processor with up to 16GB of DDR5 RAM and 512GB PCIe 4.0 Storage. It comes with support for Dual DDR SO-DIMM slots for high performance RAM upgrades and Dual-SSD RAID support for better memory reliability and performance.
In addition to this, the laptop also comes with miliary-grade durability for peace of mind when working on the go. The laptop also comes with a bevvy of AI features that are designed to enhance the user experience. A standout AI feature is the ASUS AI ExpertMeet that helps enhance meeting productivity with on the fly translations, translations and meeting summaries. Key features of the ExpertBook P1 include:
ExpertBook P5: A Powerful and AI-Driven Laptop
The ExpertBook P5 is a high-performance laptop designed for professionals who demand the best. Powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, the P5 offers exceptional performance and AI-powered features.
The P5 is designed to be lightweight and durable – two important factors for people who work on-the-go. It comes with a high-resolution, 14-inch display with a 2.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The laptop also comes with an enhanced cooling system that ensures optimal performance even under heavy load. It also comes with enterprise level security including TPM 2.0 and BIOS protection.
Like the ExpertBook P1, the Expert Book P5 comes with AI features to help with productivity. However, unlike the P1, the P5 is a Copilot+ for Work PC which comes with Microsoft’s Copilot+ enhancements including features that help with meeting productivity and enhanced security. It is also ready for Microsoft Recall, that will be rolling out later on.
ASUS is also providing 3-year warranty that includes on-site service and 24/7 customer support for the P5.
Pricing and Availability
The ASUS ExpertBook P1 series starts at RM3,799, while the ExpertBook P5 is priced at RM6,859. Both laptops are available now in Malaysia.
Expert, IP Office and Industry Representatives Call for Site Blocking Laws to be Passed
MANILA, Philippines, Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — A new study commissioned by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) showed that Filipino consumers who access piracy sites and services are at severe risk of cyber threats such as identity theft and ransomware. The study found Filipinos are up to 33 times more likely to encounter a cyber threat on the most popular piracy sites compared to legal film and TV websites.
These findings were presented in a study released on 13 November during an anti-piracy symposium organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), GMA Network, Inc. and Globe Telecom. ACE, the world’s leading antipiracy coalition, is led by the MPA.
The study was authored by Dr. Paul Watters, Honorary Professor of Security Studies and Criminology, Macquarie University in Sydney.
“As the digital landscape grows increasingly complex, the risks to consumers accessing piracy sites – especially younger consumers – have never been more urgent,” Watters said. “Consumers today navigate an online environment fraught with hidden malware and exploitation, often without realizing the true danger they face. My research highlights the urgent need for effective action to protect consumers, as every click on a piracy site brings not only legal and ethical implications, but significant threats to users’ safety and security. We owe it to the next generation to build a safe and secure internet, which protects young people from cybercriminals.”
To mitigate the risk of consumer harm posed by piracy sites, the study recommends the enactment of proportionate and transparent site blocking laws that will target piracy sites and services, increased funding for Filipino law enforcement to enhance digital forensics and incident response capabilities, and the development of a national awareness and education campaign.
“IPOPHL’s voluntary site-blocking initiative has emerged as a key tool in the fight against digital piracy,” said IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba. “While it has only been implemented this year, we’ve already disabled access to nearly 20 sites with the help of the National Telecommunications Commission and internet service providers. Nevertheless, a law will institutionalize our site-blocking regime to create more outcomes, unlock the full potential of our creative economy and protect our consumers from the alarming cyber threats of piracy sites. IPOPHL is still hopeful to see a site-blocking law passed soon.”
“The MPA’s experience in almost 60 countries around the world shows that site blocking is one of the most effective tools in our toolbox to combat piracy,” said Karyn Temple, Senior Executive Vice President and Global General Counsel for the MPA. “This is particularly true in jurisdictions like the Philippines, where the most visited sites are run by operators based elsewhere in the world. The enactment of site blocking legislation is the next key step towards protecting Filipino consumers, content creators, and the creative industry in the Philippines and around the world.”
The study also showed that raising consumer awareness and education – particularly with teens and pre-teens – is crucial to mitigating the cyber risks associated with piracy sites in the Philippines.
“The study confirms what we have long feared about online piracy in the Philippines,” said Mr. Joseph T. Francia, First Vice President and Head of International Operations for GMA Network, Inc., an ACE member company. In addition to the negative economic impact to the Filipino entertainment industry, digital piracy has far more serious consequences to the Filipino consumers who are unwittingly exposed to a host of cyberthreats by visiting pirate sites. GMA is committed to continue raising consumer awareness and education on the cyber risks associated with digital piracy.”
“At Globe, we believe in a digital world that is safe and empowering for everyone,” said Yoly Cristiano, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer for Globe, an ACE member. “This study underscores the critical need for collaborative action to protect consumers, especially young people, from the hidden dangers of online piracy. We are committed to working with the government and partners like the MPA, ACE and GMA Network to promote responsible digital citizenship and ensure a secure online experience for all Filipinos.”
The Motion Picture Association (MPA) serves as the leading voice and advocate of the motion picture, home video, and television industries. It works in every corner of the globe to advance the creative industry, protect its members’ content across all screens, defend the creative and artistic freedoms of storytellers, and support innovative distribution models that bring an expansion of viewing choices to audiences around the world. Its member studios are Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Charles Rivkin is Chairman and CEO.
About The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment
The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) is the world’s leading coalition dedicated to protecting the legal creative market and reducing digital piracy. Driven by a comprehensive approach to addressing piracy through criminal referrals, civil litigation, and cease-and-desist operations, ACE has achieved many successful global enforcement actions against illegal streaming services and unauthorized content sources and their operators. Drawing upon the collective expertise and resources of more than 50 media and entertainment companies around the world—including sports channels and associations—and reinforced by the Motion Picture Association’s content protection operations, ACE protects the creativity and innovation that drives the global growth of core copyright and entertainment industries. The current governing board members for ACE are Amazon, Apple TV+, Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Charles Rivkin is Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association and Chairman of ACE.
About the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL)
An agency attached to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), IPOPHL was created by virtue of Republic Act 8293 or the Intellectual Property (IP) Code of the Philippines. It is mandated to protect IP and create policies and programs that shape the IP system to be a tool for promoting innovative and creative activities, facilitating transfer of technology, attracting foreign investments and ensuring market access for products.
The IPOPHL sits at the National Committee on IP Rights as vice-chair. It is also an ex-officio member of the National Innovation Council and the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council, which are respectively tasked to foster innovation and creativity in the country.
About GMA Network
GMA Network, Inc. is the Philippines’ leading broadcasting company, which produces the most innovative, most trusted, and top-rating TV programs.
Also known as the Kapuso Network, GMA brings superior entertainment and responsible, unbiased, and timely delivery of comprehensive and accurate News and Information to Filipinos anywhere in the world – through its TV, radio, online platforms and wide array of other media-related ventures: program syndication, film production, music publishing and distribution, set design, audio-visual production, and new media.
Based on Nielsen TV Audience Measurement data from January to September 2024, GMA Network including GTV and other digital channels tallied a combined people net reach of 92 percent or 67 million viewers in Total Philippines. Headquartered in Quezon City, GMA operates a network of 115 TV stations and 21 radio stations throughout the country.
Officially listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange in 2007, GMA Network, Inc. is regarded as one of the most notable organizations that promote sustainability in the country, being the first media and broadcasting company in the Philippines to sign with the United Nations (UN) Global Compact.
Globe Telecom, Inc. is a leading full-service telecommunications company in the Philippines and publicly listed in the PSE with the stock symbol GLO. The company serves the telecommunications and technology needs of consumers and businesses across an entire suite of products and services including mobile, fixed, broadband, data connectivity, internet and managed services. It offers innovative digital solutions in the areas of fintech, healthtech, adtech, climate tech, shared services and venture capital. In 2019, Globe became a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact, committing to implementing universal sustainability principles. Its principals are Ayala Corporation and Singtel, acknowledged industry leaders in the country and in the region.
This article was based on an interview with Mr Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia; Ms Levana Sani, Co-Founder and CEO, Nalagenetics and Ms Kamonlawan Chomchopbun, Product Manager and Market Access Lead, NalaGenetics.
Personalized medicine marks a turning point in healthcare, where treatments and preventive care are tailored to an individual’s unique genetic makeup. The approach seems very daunting with genetic testing becoming one of the key components, however, companies like Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich) and NalaGenetics are forging ahead to not only make it a standard but the norm. NalaGenetics, an innovative startup specializing in genetic testing is one of the finalists of the Zurich Innovation Championship (ZIC). As part of its journey in the ZIC, NalaGenetics has the unique opportunity to work with Zurich. This collaboration is breaking new ground by co-creating solutions that could revolutionize how healthcare and insurance work together to deliver preventive care that is both personalized and efficient.
As healthcare and treatment options become more data-driven and proactive, Zurich and NalaGenetics are showing how co-creation and innovation can lead to powerful outcomes that improve individual health and reshape the broader insurance landscape. The collaboration also allows Zurich to be ahead of the curve and adopt a more agile approach to its key businesses.
The Zurich Innovation Championship: Catalysing Change and Empowering InsurTech Agility
Let’s start at the very beginning of this collaboration with the Zurich Innovation Championship (ZIC). Founded in 2018, the ZIC was designed to connect Zurich with startups that offer cutting-edge solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in the insurance industry. At its core, ZIC accelerates innovation by working with agile, experimental startups like NalaGenetics, which can bring fresh perspectives and technical prowess to Zurich’s century-old business.
Source: Zurich
“The Zurich Innovation Championship is about bringing innovative thinking and technology closer to Zurich. We work with startups like NalaGenetics to deliver faster, more effective solutions that can fundamentally change how we connect with our customers.”
Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia
As Zurich seeks to maintain its competitive edge and better serve its customers in a rapidly changing world, the ZIC enables the company to tap into external innovation. Since its inception, the ZIC has seen over 7,000 submissions, resulting in over 70 pilots, 50 active initiatives, and a presence in over 30 countries. The collaboration with NalaGenetics in Malaysia stands as a prime example of how Zurich uses co-creation to solve real-world problems and modernize its offerings.
NalaGenetics Spearheading Genetic Relevance in Healthcare with Personalized Medicine
Let’s talk a little about NalaGenetics, one of the winners of the recent ZIC. NalaGenetics was founded on the belief that genetic testing could radically improve how patients are diagnosed and treated, particularly when it comes to drug metabolism, disease prevention, and overall health management. The company specializes in creating genetic tests that can predict how individuals will respond to medications, helping physicians tailor treatments more accurately to reduce adverse reactions and improve health outcomes.
In a world where medications are often designed based on a “one-size-fits-all” approach, NalaGenetics offers a much-needed alternative. Genetic testing can reveal how certain populations, such as Asians, metabolize drugs differently. This is even more pertinent with recent studies showing an increasing disparity between genetic populations and treatment efficacy. One such study highlights that 40-50% of Asians don’t respond well to the commonly prescribed anti-platelet medication Clopidogrel. It goes on to present data that shows that this population also sees an increased risk of cardiovascular events when prescribed Clopidogrel.
By leveraging genetic data, NalaGenetics allows physicians to make better-informed decisions, prescribing appropriate medications and lifestyle adjustments to their patients. But, as NalaGenetics’ founders quickly realized, providing genetic information alone isn’t enough—it’s essential to ensure patients take action based on these insights. That’s where NalaGenetics’ holistic approach comes in, combining genetic testing with physician-guided prevention programs to help patients improve their health outcomes.
Shaping the Future of Health and InsurTech with Co-Creation
As part of the Zurich Innovation Championship, Zurich in Malaysia and NalaGenetics entered into a unique collaboration that involves the co-creation of a solution that can impact the healthcare and insurance industries. Unlike traditional collaborations where a startup might deliver a product and then step aside, Zurich and NalaGenetics have adopted a more collaborative approach. Over a 3- to 6-month accelerator phase, both companies worked together in an agile, co-creative process to design a solution that aligns with Zurich’s goals of delivering personalized, preventive care through its life insurance and family takaful products.
“Co-creation is key to what we do,” Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia emphasized. “We don’t just invest in these startups. We work together, Zurich and NalaGenetics experts, in an iterative, agile manner to find solutions that solve real-world problems.”
During this period, both companies collaborated closely, sharing relevant data, insights, and expertise. They tested different product models, gathered customer feedback, and refined their offerings based on real-world data. The pilot program initially targeted existing Zurich Malaysia customers, offering genetic testing followed by personalized health advice from physicians. This was then expanded to new customers, with a focus on integrating preventive care into Zurich’s life insurance policies.
The co-creation process allows Zurich to respond to the market’s evolving needs, particularly as more customers seek health solutions that go beyond traditional insurance. The feedback from both customers and Zurich agents in Malaysia has been overwhelmingly positive. Agents, who initially approached the program cautiously, were so impressed after trying the service themselves that they became enthusiastic advocates, helping to drive customer interest and engagement.
Championing Personalized Medicine and Creating a New Standard in Healthcare and Insurance
The integration of personalized medicine into insurance is one of the most exciting developments in both industries. Genetic testing is becoming a crucial tool in preventive healthcare, allowing doctors to tailor treatments to individual patients and prevent costly medical conditions before they arise.
As part of their collaboration, Zurich and NalaGenetics aim to make personalized, preventive care a cornerstone of Zurich’s health insurance offerings. The aim is to enhance health outcomes and decrease long-term insurance claims by managing health risks at an early stage.
Source: NalaGenetics
“It’s about more than just selling a product—it’s about giving customers the tools they need to live healthier, longer lives. Even when we design products, we meet the doctors in the middle, we always ask them whether or not this truly benefits care – is there a true clinical decision point that we helped them address?”
Levana Sani, Co-Founder and CEO, Nalagenetics
In practical terms, the program involves offering genetic tests to customers, followed by regular consultations with physicians to discuss the results and make necessary lifestyle adjustments. For example, if a patient’s genetic test reveals they are at high risk for cardiovascular disease, their physician can prescribe preventive measures, such as changes in diet or early medication interventions, to mitigate the risk before it becomes a serious issue.
The Benefits of Co-Creation: Early Results from the Pilot
The benefits of leveraging genetic testing and insights in this co-creation process are already apparent. During the pilot phase, Zurich Malaysia and NalaGenetics tested their product on a group of customers, gathering valuable data to refine their approach. One of the key takeaways was the high level of customer interest in genetic testing—80% of surveyed customers expressed a desire to undergo genetic testing, and 90% were willing to participate in associated health programs.
Customers also appreciated Zurich’s move away from traditional insurance or takaful products toward something more personalized and proactive. During the interview, Kamonlawan Chomchopbun, Product Manager and Market Access Lead at NalaGenetics who works on the ground with the Zurich Malaysia team, shared that even agents are empowered by the solution. The impact of the co-created solution was so immense that the agent shared, “It’s not just about offering coverage anymore—it’s about caring for the customer’s overall well-being.”
Feedback from customers participating in the program revealed that they valued having a deeper understanding of their health risks and felt empowered to take preventive action. In one notable case, a patient with persistent GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) discovered through genetic testing that they had a mild lactose intolerance and a sensitivity to coffee. By making simple adjustments to their diet, the patient’s symptoms improved dramatically within three months, eliminating the need for further doctor visits.
This kind of personalized, preventive approach not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces the likelihood of costly insurance claims, creating a mutually beneficial relationship for both customers and Zurich.
A Glimpse into the Future: Data-Driven Decisions and Preventive Care
Looking ahead, the collaboration between Zurich and NalaGenetics can have a lasting impact on both the health and insurance industry. As more data is gathered through genetic testing and preventive care programs, Zurich will be able to make more informed decisions about how to cater to the evolving needs of its clients while helping them optimize health outcomes. The potential for AI-driven insights, automation and more significantly genetic insights will undoubtedly play an increasing role in shaping the future of healthcare and insurance.
Source: Zurich
“If we look ahead to 2030, we’ll see more data-driven decisions in every part of life. Insurance products will need to modernize alongside this trend, offering customers not just coverage but proactive solutions that help them live healthier lives.”
Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia
As the collaboration evolves, both companies expect the demand for personalized medicine to grow, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia, where genetic differences often mean that standard treatments are less effective. The insights gathered from this co-creation process will be invaluable in shaping Zurich’s future offerings and making personalized care a mainstream component of health insurance. It will also help make genetic testing the standard when it comes to treatment plans and optimizing patient care.
Pioneering the Future of Personalized Healthcare
The co-creation between NalaGenetics and Zurich is a powerful example of how collaborations between startups and established corporations can drive meaningful change. Through the Zurich Innovation Championship, the companies are poised to bring personalized medicine into the insurance space. The co-creation process has allowed them to offer customers more than just peace of mind, they’re offering the tools to live healthier, longer lives.
By focusing on genetic testing, preventive care, and data-driven solutions, Zurich and NalaGenetics are paving the way for a future where healthcare and insurance are fully integrated, providing a holistic approach to well-being. This collaboration not only sets Zurich Malaysia apart in the insurance market but also offers a glimpse into the future of personalized, proactive healthcare.
As the world continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of healthcare is personal, and Zurich and NalaGenetics are leading the way.
This article was based on an interview with Mr Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia; Ms Levana Sani, Co-Founder and CEO, Nalagenetics and Ms Kamonlawan Chomchopbun, Product Manager and Market Access Lead, NalaGenetics.
Alastair Robertson (Ally) Country Chief Operations Officer (COO) Zurich Malaysia
Ally is an experienced industry professional with over 16 years of experience in the insurance industry. He has helmed various leadership roles across Strategy, Transformation and Operational Excellence. He has experience in leading large-scale change teams, focusing on Lean Thinking, Automation and AI.
He also has cross-functional experience, which includes P&C, Life, Claims, Group, Underwriting & Shared Services and has extensive knowledge of working with suppliers both on and offshore. Prior to his current appointment, Ally held the role of Head of Enterprise Transformation at Zurich Australia and New Zealand and has experience working across five different continents while at Zurich.
Ally is highly energetic and has the ability to connect, influence and develop collaborative business relationships at all levels. Given his experience working on different continents, he is well-versed in managing diverse teams while driving a real sense of togetherness and team spirit that is focused on business outcomes.
Levana Sani is the co-founder and CEO of NalaGenetics, a biotechnology startup transforming personalized healthcare through advanced predictive genetic testing for diverse populations. NalaGenetics addresses the limitations of traditional germline sequencing by combining monogenic risk, polygenic risk, and clinical risk scores, enabling healthcare providers to offer more sensitive, comprehensive, and cost-effective testing solutions for cardiovascular, metabolic, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions.
Levana studied biochemistry, genetics, and business and holds a Bachelor of Biochemistry from the University of Southern California followed by an MBA from Harvard Business School. While being a part of the Genome Institute of Singapore, Levana and a team of scientists founded NalaGenetics in 2016. Her contributions to NalaGenetics led to Levana being selected in the Forbes 30 under 30 in 2021.
In 2022, NalaGenetics became a part of Singapore’s SG100K study, aimed at mapping genomes of 10,000 participants to advance precision medicine and prevent chronic diseases in Singaporean and other Asian populations. Today, NalaGenetics’ solutions are offered by a growing number of healthcare providers and laboratories in Asia and Europe, reflecting the company’s exceptional standards and depth of research as a scientist-led company.
Kamonlawan Chomchopbun Product Manager and Market Access Lead, NalaGenetics.
Kamonlawan is a seasoned product leader with extensive experience in genetic testing and healthcare solutions across Southeast Asia. As the Market Access and Product Lead at NalaGenetics, she oversees genetic test services, including product management, operations, and business monitoring. Her work focuses on driving innovative solutions like NalaCare™, a personalized wellness program aimed at improving customer engagement and satisfaction in insurance and healthcare. With a passion for making an impact through education, product development, and personalized healthcare, she has successfully led projects that blend science with real-world applications.
Kamonlawan holds a PhD in Pharmacy from the National University of Singapore, where her academic journey reinforced her commitment to medication safety and healthcare quality improvement.
International travelers can now pay like locals at more than 35 million merchants across Asia Pacific
SINGAPORE, Nov. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Ahead of the Singapore FinTech Festival, Mastercard today introduced Mastercard Pay Local, a global service that makes it easy for consumers to make card payments to merchants using local digital wallets. With Mastercard Pay Local, resident cardholders or international travelers can easily link their credit or debit cards to a digital wallet and immediately shop at participating merchants, without needing to set up or top up a prepaid account.
Leading wallets in Asia Pacific, such as DANA in Indonesia, Touch ‘n Go in Malaysia, Bakong in Cambodia, and LankaPay in Sri Lanka, will use Mastercard Pay Local to facilitate payments for consumers at more than 35 million merchants in the region that accept these wallets. Beyond Asia Pacific, the service is also geared towards regions where digital wallets are widely used for everyday purchases, such as Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East and Africa.
Mastercard Pay Local benefits everyone involved:
Residents can pay the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that do not accept traditional card payments, while tourists and international travelers can enjoy convenient, seamless payments across the destinations they’re visiting.
Hundreds of millions of MSMEs can experience increased reach with minimal infrastructure investment or disruptions to their operations.
Wallet operators can extend their customer base by attracting individuals who primarily use cards, providing a smooth consumer experience and achieving quicker time to market.
Card issuers can deliver more points of acceptance for the consumers they serve.
“With Pay Local, Mastercard is extending its global network to partner wallets and expanding acceptance by making it possible for Asia’s digital wallets to process card-based payments. This creates a low-cost, simple, stable, and secure connection between over 35 million merchants in Asia Pacific and two billion Mastercard cardholders,” said Sandeep Malhotra, executive vice president, Products & Innovation, Asia Pacific, Mastercard. “Locals benefit from new payment options while tourists can use their cards as they do at home, making travel infinitely easier, with one less thing to worry about while on the road.”
Pay Local builds upon Mastercard’s existing collaborations with leading wallet providers, including Alipay and Weixin Pay in the Chinese Mainland and Octopus in Hong Kong SAR, to offer a convenient way for international visitors to pay like locals when traveling to these locations, regardless of where in the world their Mastercard card was issued.
In addition, a range of digital wallets across the region already accept Mastercard cards for funding, enabling easy payments at merchant locations that accept these wallets, including GrabPay in Southeast Asia, Maya in the Philippines, ShopBack in Singapore, and TrueMoney in Thailand.
Businesses that would like to learn more about Mastercard Pay Local should visit the information page and fill out the form. A member of Mastercard’s team will get in contact with more details.
Hear from our partners:
DANA: “At DANA, we are committed to enhancing the accessibility and convenience of digital payments for all users. By collaborating with Mastercard, we are excited to offer international travelers a seamless way to register and bind their cards to DANA, furthering our mission of bridging financial inclusion across borders. This collaboration reflects our dedication to improving user experience and supporting global financial mobility as we anticipate increased international travel,” said Darrick Rochili, chief innovation officer of DANA.
Touch ‘n Go: “As Malaysia’s leading digital wallet and financial services provider, we are proud to have expanded our services beyond national borders, enabling users to travel cashless and make seamless payments internationally. Our collaboration with Mastercard underscores the strength of our open platform strategy, allowing us to extend cashless payment solutions to international travelers visiting Malaysia, contributing to the country’s tourism industry and economy. We are pleased to offer inbound tourists the convenience of cashless transactions via QR payment at over 2 million merchants, retail outlets, and service providers across Malaysia,” said Alan Ni, CEO at TNG Digital.
About Mastercard Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential. www.mastercard.com
