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Technology

L’Oréal Invests in Future of AI-Powered Commerce and the Creator Economy with Tech Startups from South Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa

SINGAPORE, May 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — L’Oréal is officially calling for the next generation of tech pioneers in Singapore to co-create the future of beauty. Applications are now open for .... read more

SUBANG JAYA, 12 May 2026 – Epson, the No.1 leader for Document Scanner in 2025 in terms of unit shipments, has introduced the WorkForce DS-530III, its latest A4 Duplex Sheet-fed colour scanner engineered to deliver faster, more reliable scanning for today’s digitised workplaces. Designed for performance-driven office environments, the DS-530III scanner combines high-speed scanning, intelligent document protection, daily performance capacity, and versatile media handling in a compact footprint. Faster performance for high-volume environments Measuring at 296 x 169 x 176 mm, the new DS-530III offers improved scan speeds of up to 40 pages per minute, or 80 images per minute, and a daily duty cycle of up to 6,500 pages. An automatic feeding mode also enables users to carry out batch scanning with continuous feeding of multiple pages, including documents of different sizes, to save within one singular digital file. Intelligent protection for consistent results Engineered for reliability, the DS-530III features Epson’s paper protection and double feed detection skip (DFDS) technology to detect abnormal feeds and handle documents with staples and extra folds or stickers without damage. The scanner is also equipped with a glass dirt detection feature, which notifies users when dirt is detected on the glass surface, reducing the hassle for a re-scan. User-friendly features for versatile media handling The DS-530III comes with an intuitive control panel and a customisable one‑touch scan button for easy access to essential scan functions and workflows. Equipped with a one-pass duplex scanning feature, it captures both sides of a document in a single pass, significantly reducing the time required for high-volume, double-sided scanning tasks. It also supports carrier sheets and includes automatic carrier sheet detection, making it simple to scan fragile or irregular-sized documents. Scanning accuracy is further improved by advanced ultrasonic sensor and length detection features, which can identify overlapping pages or long documents in real time, making scanning fuss-free and precise. Hybrid scanning with optional V39II flatbed dock For greater flexibility, the DS-530III can be paired with Epson Perfection V39II flatbed photo scanner via the optional flatbed dock. This hybrid configuration expands scanning versatility, enabling support for thicker materials like books and fragile documents such as receipts. With this integrated option, businesses can expand their scanning capabilities without compromising space, simplicity, or performance. Integrated software for seamless document management The DS-530III is supported by Epson Scan 2 and Document Capture Pro software for a more efficient scanning workflow. Epson Scan 2 improves image quality with advanced features such as text enhancement, skew correction and colour optimisation tools for accurate reproduction. The built-in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) enables searchable PDFs with password protection. Meanwhile, the Document Capture Pro allows users to easily create, name and separate files into different folders. It also automatically recognises barcodes and blank pages, and supports up to 30 customised scan settings to streamline repetitive tasks. “As organisations deepen their digital transformation and document management processes, they need scanning solutions that combine speed, performance, reliability, and flexibility,” said Alvin Tan, Managing Director, Epson Malaysia. “The WorkForce DS-530III expands our scanner lineup to better support the diverse needs of our customers. This is a reflection of Epson’s commitment to precision engineering and user-focused innovation, and as a trusted partner that helps businesses work smarter every day.” The DS-530III will be available for purchase in Malaysia from 1 April 2026. Visit Epson’s website or contact the nearest Epson Authorised Dealer store around you for more information.

Epson boosts office productivity with new high-speed WorkForce DS-530III scanner

SUBANG JAYA, 12 May 2026 – Epson, the No.1 leader for Document Scanner in 2025 in terms of unit shipments, has introduced the WorkForce DS-530III, its latest A4 Duplex Sheet-fed .... read more

MMA INNOVATE Vietnam 2026: A Premier Meeting Point for the Marketing and Technology Ecosystem

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Following a remarkable 2025 edition that brought together 3,000+ senior leaders, 60+ international speakers, 40+ technology booths, 60 leading partners, .... read more

BEIJING, May 11, 2026 -- On April 30, Coremail officially unveiled its AI-Native Secure Email System at the 9th Digital China Summit, showcasing the company's continued innovation and technical expertise in enterprise email and intelligent workplace collaboration. As AI enters the "Year of the Agent" in 2026, artificial intelligence is evolving into a new form of digital productivity capable of intelligent planning and cross-scenario coordination. At the same time, email is transforming from a traditional messaging tool into critical infrastructure that connects enterprise systems and business data flows. In response to this shift, Coremail has introduced its AI-Native Secure Email System built around a "Perceive-Think-Act" architecture. The CLI-driven model is emerging as a key foundation for building agent-friendly systems, and the Coremail AI-Native Secure Email System is designed to fully unlock AI's operational value through this architecture. Powered by large language models as its cognitive engine, agents as its execution layer, and enterprise data as its operational core, the system is helping transform email workflows from manual operations into AI-assisted collaboration. The system is designed to support six core enterprise scenarios, including email classification, scheduling, approval workflows, workplace collaboration, email analytics, and system operations. It enables capabilities such as advanced email retrieval, intelligent meeting coordination, automated analysis and classification, and AI-assisted operations management. Powered by user-profile and behavioral analysis, the smart dashboard can automatically identify business priorities and task urgency, helping users cut through information overload. Through coordinated multi-agent collaboration, the system enables seamless information orchestration and operational automation across emails and business processes, further enhancing operational efficiency. In terms of ecosystem integration, the system supports the Model Context Protocol (MCP), extending email beyond its traditional boundaries. Within a secure sandbox environment, third-party tools and APIs can be dynamically integrated on demand, enabling email to serve as a unified entry point for enterprise-wide workflow orchestration and transforming it from an information container into a business information hub. "AI is reshaping enterprise productivity, and email is evolving from a communication tool into an intelligent collaboration hub. Coremail will continue advancing AI-native innovation to help enterprises build more secure and efficient digital workplaces," said Marvin Wu, Vice President of Coremail. The Coremail AI-Native Secure Email System is built around a deeply secure and controllable execution framework powered by intelligent agents. Based on the ReAct (Reasoning + Acting) framework, the system brings all tasks into a standardized lifecycle spanning perception, planning, execution, and feedback, helping ensure complex workflows operate within governed business boundaries. The system adopts a dual-layer sandbox isolation architecture built around a user-level sandbox model and the principle of least-privilege access control. Under this framework, AI agents operate exclusively within independent encrypted execution environments, enabling automated orchestration across complex email workflows while maintaining strict control over data access and permission boundaries. In doing so, the system delivers both operational efficiency and enterprise-grade security protection. In addition, the Coremail AI-Native Secure Email System introduces comprehensive upgrades across interface design and user experience. Features such as a three-pane information layout, optimized grouping logic, floating prompts, and quick-access functions help streamline operations and create a more intuitive workplace experience. Driven by AI innovation and built with security at its core, the Coremail AI-Native Secure Email System is redefining the enterprise email experience for the intelligent workplace era. Looking ahead, Coremail will continue advancing AI-native innovation and delivering trusted products and services that help enterprises operate with greater efficiency, security, and resilience in the age of AI. Source: Coremail & /PRNewswire/

Coremail Launches AI-Native Secure Email System for the Agent Era

BEIJING, May 11, 2026 — On April 30, Coremail officially unveiled its AI-Native Secure Email System at the 9th Digital China Summit, showcasing the company’s continued innovation and technical expertise .... read more

NILAI, 11 May 2026 - TP-Link Distribution Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (“TP-Link Malaysia”) is extending its talent development strategy with a new collaboration with Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), reinforcing a growing push to build a structured pipeline of enterprise networking professionals across Malaysia. Rather than standalone academic partnerships, the collaboration reflects a more deliberate effort to connect universities into a broader ecosystem where students are trained, certified and channelled into industry with relevant in-demand skills. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalises a three-year collaboration focused on integrating enterprise networking capabilities directly into USIM’s academic environment. Through this, TP-Link Malaysia will deploy its Omada enterprise networking solutions within campus labs, enabling students to work on infrastructure that mirrors real-world enterprise systems. The programme is designed to move beyond theoretical exposure, combining hands-on technical training, structured workshops and access to the Omada Certified Network Administrator (OCNA) certification pathway. This ensures students graduate not just with knowledge, but with validated, industry-recognised competencies. A key component of the collaboration is the direct link to industry. Students will be offered industrial training and internship placements with TP-Link, providing practical exposure and a clearer pathway into employment within Malaysia’s digital economy. Hugo Cai, Regional Director of TP-Link Malaysia, said “Enterprises today require talent that can operate, not just understand, digital infrastructure. By building a structured pipeline that connects training, certification and industry exposure, we are creating a more direct path from university to the workforce. The focus is no longer just on education, but on how effectively talent can transition into industry.” “This partnership allows us to go beyond academic delivery by embedding practical industry elements into the learning experience, ensuring our students are better equipped to meet evolving expectations in the digital economy. The collaboration strengthens the university’s approach to preparing students for real-world demands”, said Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Ikmar Nizam Hj. Mohamad Isa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) of USIM. The collaboration with USIM builds on TP-Link Malaysia’s earlier engagements with Universiti Malaya and Universiti Teknologi MARA, forming a growing network of institutions aligned to a common goal of developing enterprise networking talent. In 2025, approximately 500 students participated in the OCNA certification pathway, reflecting strong uptake and increasing relevance of industry-aligned programmes. Beyond talent development, both organisations will explore collaboration in research, faculty engagement and knowledge exchange, strengthening the link between academic institutions and industry practice. As Malaysia continues to invest in digital infrastructure, the ability to consistently develop and deploy skilled talent will be a defining factor in sustaining growth. Initiatives that connect education directly with industry requirements are expected to play an increasingly critical role in shaping the country’s digital workforce. For more information about TP-Link’s Omada enterprise networking solutions, please visit: https://www.omadanetworks.com/us/business-networking/consult/

TP-Link Expands University Ecosystem with USIM to Scale Enterprise Networking Talent Pipeline

NILAI, 11 May 2026 – TP-Link Distribution Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (“TP-Link Malaysia”) is extending its talent development strategy with a new collaboration with Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), reinforcing a .... read more

TelkomGroup Launches Pukpuk Submarine Cable: The First Digital Bridge Connecting Indonesia and Papua New Guinea

JAYAPURA, Indonesia, May 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, through its operating company, PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin), officially inaugurated the Pukpuk Submarine Cable System (Puk-Puk 1) .... read more

Govt Resolves RM19 Mln MSME Digital Grant Delays Following Ministerial Intervention

PUTRAJAYA, May 8 — The Ministry of Digital has confirmed that all delayed disbursements under the Geran Digital PMKS MADANI (GDPM) programme have been successfully completed following ministerial intervention to .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 — Malaysia must develop its own local technological capabilities to reduce dependence on foreign platforms and systems, particularly amid the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI). Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said digital sovereignty today is no longer defined solely by national borders, but also by control over data, infrastructure, platforms and technological systems used by society. According to him, Malaysia must shift from being merely a digital investment destination to becoming a nation capable of building its own technological strengths. “Providing hosting infrastructure is not the same as owning it. If the capital, platforms and intelligence are controlled externally, then the strategic advantage lies elsewhere,” he said. He said this while discussing the country’s digital development direction amid the increasingly challenging global technology landscape. Gobind stressed that the rapid advancement of AI makes strengthening local talent even more critical to ensure the country is prepared for future technological changes. He said the government cannot completely reject foreign technologies, but at the same time must develop local expertise so Malaysia can create its own technological systems and solutions. “That is why we must focus on ensuring we have sufficient talent within our country so that when new technologies arrive, our society is fully prepared to adopt and utilise them,” he added. At the same time, he emphasised that the security of citizens’ data remains a key government priority through the implementation of laws and monitoring by relevant agencies, including CyberSecurity Malaysia. “Data is extremely important to us. Security is our priority,” he said. Gobind also stressed that stronger collaboration between the government, industry and academic institutions is essential to ensure Malaysia can build a sustainable and competitive digital ecosystem at both regional and global levels. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCES: FB GOBIND SINGH DEO

Malaysia Must Build Its Own Technological Capabilities to Reduce Foreign Dependence — YB Gobind Singh

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 — Malaysia must develop its own local technological capabilities to reduce dependence on foreign platforms and systems, particularly amid the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI). .... read more

Media Organisations Urged To Tap AI For Data Monetisation, Not Just Automation – Specialist

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (2026 — Media organisations should leverage artificial intelligence (AI) beyond newsroom automation by monetising decades of archived data and audience insights to strengthen long-term business sustainability. .... read more

BenQ Launches AI-Optimised Interactive Displays with NPU and Built-In Software Suite for Education

SYDNEY (May 7, 2026) – BenQ Australia has introduced its latest innovation in educational technology with the launch of the BenQ Board Pro RP05 and Board Master RM05. Recognized as .... read more

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PUTRAJAYA, JUNE 14 -- The National-Level Maal Hijrah Celebration 1448H/2026M will begin with a special Tausiyyah @ Maal Hijrah and Maal Hijrah Prayer Recitation Ceremony at the Putra Mosque, here, this evening. The Director-General of the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM), Datuk Sirajuddin Suhaimee, said that the program, which starts at 4pm, will be attended by the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Zulkifli Hasan, while the prayer recitation will be led by the Grand Imam of the Putra Mosque, Muhamad Zakuwa Rodzali. He said the highlight of the celebration is scheduled to take place tomorrow in conjunction with 1 Muharram 1448H at the Putra Mosque starting at 7am with the presentation of the Tokoh Maal Hijrah Awards in the National and International Categories. "The ceremony will be officiated by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, who has agreed to attend the ceremony," he said in a statement today. Sirajuddin said that 5,000 guests were expected to attend the celebration, including Deputy Prime Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Services, representatives of ministries, departments, statutory bodies, institutions of higher learning and the private sector around Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur. Sirajuddin said, "CIVIL LIFE, BLESSED UMMA" was chosen as the theme for this year's celebration to coincide with the spirit of the Prophet Muhammad's migration, which became the starting point for building a superior Islamic civilization through the establishment of the state of Medina. He said that the values ​​of justice, unity, trust, kindness and well-being that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) implemented in the formation of the Madinah community were also in line with the aspirations of MADANI Malaysia which emphasised aspects of sustainability, well-being, creativity, respect, confidence and kindness. "Therefore, the appreciation of MADANI values ​​is believed to be able to create a united, resilient and blessed ummah, in line with the spirit of migration in developing a prosperous society and country," he said. Sirajuddin said that among the special features of this year's celebration is the introduction of the Tausiyyah @ Maal Hijrah program as a new addition that focuses on the contemplation of Quranic verses, thus inviting Muslims to appreciate the meaning of hijrah as a turning point in life. He said that this approach allows participants to not only listen to the recitation of the Quran by the best reciters, but also understand the messages, wisdom and guidance from the verses recited to be applied in daily life. Apart from that, Sirajuddin said, the National and International Maal Hijrah 1448H/2026M Prime Lecture Ceremony will be held on June 18 at the Putrajaya Islamic Complex Auditorium starting at 9 am to allow award recipients to share their knowledge, experiences and views on the results of their contributions to the development of the ummah. He said that this year's celebration was organized in a modest manner but remained lively, prestigious and meaningful in line with the country's priorities in strengthening the fiscal position and the well-being of the people. -- BERNAMA

5,000 expected to attend National-Level Maal Hijrah celebration at Putra Mosque tomorrow

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 — All banks in Malaysia will abolish the RM1 charge for interbank cash withdrawals at Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Smart Recycler Machines (SRMs) beginning July 1, 2026, in a move expected to benefit millions of banking customers nationwide. The decision means customers will no longer be charged a fee when withdrawing cash from ATMs or SRMs operated by banks other than their own. Previously, interbank cash withdrawals typically incurred a RM1 service charge per transaction. The fee waiver is expected to provide greater convenience and cost savings for consumers, particularly those who frequently rely on ATM networks outside their primary banking institution. Industry observers believe the move reflects ongoing efforts by the banking sector to enhance customer experience and support the country's transition towards a more inclusive and efficient financial ecosystem. The abolition of the fee will apply across participating banking institutions nationwide, allowing customers to access cash more freely without having to consider additional withdrawal charges. The initiative is also expected to encourage wider usage of banking services and improve accessibility, especially in areas where customers may have limited access to their own bank's ATM network. Further details regarding the implementation and any applicable conditions are expected to be announced by individual banks ahead of the July 1 commencement date. The removal of the RM1 interbank withdrawal fee marks one of the most significant consumer-friendly banking measures introduced this year, offering direct savings to Malaysians who regularly conduct cash withdrawal transactions across different banking networks. -- MINUTESMY

RM1 ATM Withdrawal Fee to Be Scrapped Nationwide Starting July 1

As the cost of living continues to shape household spending decisions, more Malaysians are rediscovering a simple yet effective way to save money while maintaining a healthy lifestyle — cooking at home. From young professionals living in urban apartments to families managing monthly budgets, home cooking has become more than just a practical necessity. It is increasingly seen as a lifestyle choice that promotes financial discipline, healthier eating habits and stronger family connections. A Return to the Home Kitchen In recent years, food delivery apps and dining out became an integral part of modern Malaysian life. Convenience often outweighed cost considerations, especially for busy working adults. However, as household expenses rise, many consumers are taking a closer look at their daily spending habits. A meal purchased outside can easily cost between RM15 and RM25 per person, while the same meal prepared at home may cost significantly less. For families with children, the savings become even more substantial. Preparing meals at home allows households to control both their budget and food quality, making every ringgit go further. Smart Shopping, Smarter Spending Home cooking begins long before ingredients reach the kitchen. Budget-conscious Malaysians are becoming more strategic shoppers by comparing prices, purchasing seasonal produce and planning meals around weekly promotions. Wet markets remain popular for fresh vegetables, fish and poultry, while supermarkets offer competitive discounts on pantry essentials. Many households are also embracing meal planning, creating weekly menus to avoid unnecessary purchases and reduce food waste. By buying only what is needed, families can maximise value while minimising spoilage. Simple ingredients such as eggs, tofu, vegetables, rice and local fish continue to form the foundation of affordable and nutritious meals. Traditional Recipes Make a Comeback Interestingly, the trend towards home cooking is also contributing to the revival of traditional Malaysian recipes. Dishes such as nasi goreng kampung, sambal telur, sayur lemak, ikan kembung bakar and chicken curry are finding their way back onto dining tables. These meals are not only economical but also deeply connected to Malaysia's rich culinary heritage. Many younger Malaysians are learning recipes from parents and grandparents, ensuring that family traditions are preserved while adapting them to modern lifestyles. Social media platforms have further accelerated this movement, with countless creators sharing affordable meal ideas, cooking tutorials and budget-friendly recipes tailored to local tastes. Health Benefits Beyond Savings While financial considerations may drive the decision to cook at home, the health benefits are equally significant. Home-cooked meals generally contain less sugar, salt and unhealthy fats compared to many commercially prepared foods. Families can choose fresher ingredients, control portion sizes and incorporate more vegetables into their diets. Nutrition experts have long emphasised that healthy eating does not necessarily require expensive ingredients. Balanced meals can be prepared using affordable local produce and traditional cooking methods. As awareness of wellness and preventive healthcare grows, home cooking is becoming an important component of a healthier lifestyle. Strengthening Family Bonds Beyond economics and nutrition, home cooking offers something that money cannot buy — quality time. For many families, preparing and sharing meals together creates opportunities for conversation, learning and bonding. Children can participate in simple cooking tasks, while family recipes become a way of passing knowledge from one generation to the next. In an increasingly digital world, the dinner table remains one of the few places where families can slow down and reconnect. More Than Just Saving Money The growing popularity of home cooking reflects a broader shift in how Malaysians define a good quality of life. Living well on a tight budget is not merely about cutting expenses. It is about making thoughtful choices that support financial stability, personal wellbeing and family relationships. As Malaysians navigate economic challenges, many are discovering that some of life's greatest comforts do not come from expensive restaurants or trendy food deliveries. Sometimes, they come from a simple home-cooked meal shared with loved ones around the dining table. In a time when every ringgit counts, home cooking is proving that living well does not have to mean spending more. Instead, it is becoming a powerful reminder that good food, good health and strong family connections can all begin at home. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Every Ringgit Counts: Why More Malaysians Are Returning to Home Cooking

SHANGHAI, June 15 -- The Shanghai Museum will present "On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas" (July 9, 2026 – Nov. 14, 2027 at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square), a major exhibition exploring the artistic, cultural, and spiritual traditions of ancient civilizations across Central and South America. Following the success of 'On Top of the Pyramid,' this exhibition features exceptional objects from Mexico and Peru, showcasing the ancient Americas' greatest achievements. Organized in partnership with museums and cultural institutions in Mexico and Peru, the exhibition features 1,129 groups of objects, nearly 3,000 pieces. Through an expansive presentation of archaeological and artistic material, it examines the development of ancient civilizations across Central and South America and their enduring cultural legacies.    Occupying more than 7,000 square meters of gallery space, the exhibition is organized into two complementary sections focused on the histories, artistic traditions, and material cultures of Mexico and Peru. The first section, "Sacred Spaces: Civilizations of Ancient Mexico". Examining the relationship between belief systems, political authority, and artistic production, the presentation explores the cosmological frameworks that shaped ancient Mesoamerican societies. Through monumental works, ritual objects, and everyday artifacts, visitors are introduced to the intellectual and cultural worlds of these civilizations. The second section, "Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru". As the largest exhibition on Andean civilizations ever presented in China, it is also among the most significant international touring exhibitions of Peruvian gold and silver artifacts. Tracing the development of societies across the Andes, the exhibition highlights the region's artistic achievements while examining the social, political, and spiritual systems that shaped its civilizations. During the exhibition period, the Shanghai Museum on People's Square will be dedicated exclusively to the presentation. Inspired by the symbolic concept of the World Tree, exhibition design throughout the museum incorporates visual references drawn from the ancient Americas, including maize, jaguars, feathered serpents, and pyramids. To create an authentic ancient American ambiance, the venue becomes a 10,000 square meters immersive space, where visitors enter through a cornfield directly into the ancient landscape. Interpretive installations before the galleries introduce ancient America's landscapes, beliefs, and traditions. Starting June 1, 2026, international visitors can buy timed-entry tickets on Trip.com (ID required) or on-site at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square. -- PRNewswire -- Source: The Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum to Present “On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas”

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 16 -- The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on expectations that the United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) will maintain interest rates amid easing inflation concerns and falling US Treasury yields. At 8am, the local currency strengthened to 4.0455/0550 against the US dollar from 4.0485/0525 at yesterday's close. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist, Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said crude oil prices continued to decline following growing expectations that a peace deal between the US and Iran on June 19 could potentially lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He said West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Brent crude oil prices fell 4.87 percent and 4.24 percent to US$80.75 and US$83.63 per barrel, respectively, while the 10-year US Treasury yield fell below 4.50 percent, reflecting concerns over easing inflation. "Therefore, such developments could influence members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) as they consider the interest rate decision on June 16 and 17," he told Bernama. Mohd Afzanizam said the ringgit has the potential to continue its strengthening today after closing 0.18 percent higher on Monday, supported by optimism over the possibility of a US-Iran peace deal, although investors remain cautious ahead of the signing of the deal expected to take place on June 19. At the opening of trading, the ringgit also strengthened against a basket of major currencies. The local currency rose against the Japanese yen to 2.5245/5306 from 2.5283/5309 at Monday's close, strengthened against the British pound to 5.4270/4398 from 5.4355/4409 and rose against the euro to 4.6891/7002 from 4.6987/7033. Against regional currencies, the ringgit traded mostly higher except against the Philippine peso which was almost unchanged at 6.69/6.71 compared to the 6.69/6.70 level when it closed on Monday. The ringgit also strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.4228/4601 from 12.4294/4474 at yesterday's close, rose against the Indonesian rupiah to 228.4/229.1 from 228.5/228.9 and rose against the Singapore dollar to 3.1534/1611 from 3.1580/1613. -- BERNAMA

Ringgit opens higher against US dollar on expectations of Fed rate hold