Welcome back TechNavers and NewsByters, in this issue of TechNave NewsBytes 2020 #21, Acer Malaysia will offer deferred instalments on technology to help SMEs and Celcom accelerates digital transformation for SMEs. Digi announced that their HR Super App altHR has rolled out their altHR Sales Kit.
In other news, Acronis announced their True Image 2021 which combines cloud backup with antimalware in a single solution. Kingston also announced the launch of their KC2500 NVMe PCIe SSD in Malaysia.
For Misc Announcements, check them out below:
- Facebook: Mega Sales And Self-gifting In Malaysia Among Key Trends To Dominate Year-End Shopping In 2020
- TIME Delivers Resilient Results in 1H 2020
- MDEC’s Kre8tif! 2020 Goes Virtual and Borderless with “Kre8tif!-vity Without Boundaries” Theme
- LG invites consumers around the world to IFA 2020 online
- TikTok and Media Prima Kicks off #KitaBersama Challenge in the Spirit of Merdeka
- vivo Malaysia announces collaboration with Gan Jiang Han and Ho Yuhang for X50 movies
- Kaspersky: Over 8-in-10 online users in SEA believe they are “safe” online amidst pandemic time
- Boost Helps Micro & SMEs Future-Fit by Facilitating Business Shift
- New Dell Latitude Chromebook Enterprise Provides the Confidence Businesses Need to Embrace Work From Anywhere
- Spotify Unveils New Social Distancing Trends
- 5 Netflix Life Hacks From Douglas Lim To Level Up Your Streaming Game
- MDEC urges start-ups to use ‘Malaysia Digital Hubs’
ACER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Acer Malaysia Offers Deferred Instalments on Technology to Help SMEs
Acer Malaysia has introduced an initiative to assist SMEs in Malaysia to transform their businesses to work remotely or via an online model by helping to equip them with the necessary IT devices.
Understanding that both SMEs and enterprises are adapting to the new normal of online operations, Acer Malaysia’s use-first-pay-later scheme enables businesses that need to equip their staff or upgrade their equipment, gain immediate access to the technology required to adopt a more digital model.
Based on a model that allows the option of rent-to-own or rent-to-use, the scheme allows SMEs and enterprises in Malaysia to lease a minimum of RM50,000 worth of IT devices from Acer that suit their business needs. The instalment or lease period ranges from 24 to 36 months, depending on the devices required and monthly instalment amount they can afford.
To further assist these businesses during this difficult time, the commencement of the instalments can be deferred for six (6) months, where businesses will only need to pay the initial instalment in the first month and begin repayment for the rest of the instalments in the seventh month onwards. With this usefirst-pay-later scheme, Acer Malaysia aims at alleviating SMEs’ burden in the initial stages of technology acquisition, so that they can fully focus on generating revenue through new channels.
Acer Malaysia is also offering a zero-interest lease option for eligible businesses. For instance, a business requiring 20 units of laptops worth RM60,000, the approved SME would only need to pay RM2,500 per month for a two-year period. The only other cost incurred would be insurance, stamp duty, and processing fees.
This initiative is a comprehensive solution for PCs, services, and software from Acer and can be tailored to meet the requirements of the customers. Additionally, Acer Malaysia is extending three years of onsite warranty for free with their package.
For SMEs who prefer a hire purchase model, Acer Malaysia is making it available through its leasing and credit partners. Acer Malaysia will also be providing the first 88 successful SMEs with RM1,000 support each to further assist in easing their burden.
With over 30 years of presence in Malaysia, Acer has established 16 branches nationwide and works closely with partners to support the needs of businesses in the country. Supported by 16 service centres, Acer Malaysia is committed to help SMEs recover during this challenging time.
Acer Malaysia’s initiative is open for application now. Interested SME applicants can apply for Acer Malaysia’s scheme at their site or contact Acer Info Hotline at 1800-88-1288 or email to [email protected].
CELCOM ANNOUNCEMENTS
Celcom accelerates digital transformation for SMEs
As the nation’s economic landscape is striving to rise again from the impacts of COVID-19, Celcom Axiata Berhad (Celcom) is extending its reach in helping local businesses to face new challenges through its national campaign, ‘Celcom Business: Reimagine SME for Tomorrow’, in support to accelerate digital adoptions among local Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), in optimising their business operations and ensuring business sustainability.
13 organisations encompassing government agencies, financial institution, entrepreneurial organisations, and technology partners are joining the cause driven by Celcom, to provide immense potential to expand the SMEs’ business network, creating room for skills development amongst the business owners, and the opportunity for them generate new revenue and drive future growth.
Understanding the setback that many enterprises are facing today, which include limited resources and knowledge, Celcom is reaching out to them through the campaign. Celcom and the partners will be promoting relevant technology related awareness through knowledge sharing and skill enhancement programmes, as well as co-development of multiple digital programmes for SMEs.
The partners engaged together with Celcom’s ‘Celcom Business: Reimagine SME for Tomorrow’ campaign consist of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), SME Corporation, Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad (PUNB), Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) and Alliance Bank Berhad. Organisations such as The Malay Chamber of Commerce (DPMM), Usahanita Kebangsaan, SME Association, Selangor Freight Forwarders and Logistics Association (SFFLA), Microsoft, Slurp!, and Avana Asia are also working together in the campaign.
Through Celcom’s ‘Celcom Business: Reimagine SME for Tomorrow’ campaign, participating SMEs will also have the unique opportunity to be digitally empowered with the innovative one-stop SME digital kit from Celcom. With Celcom Business Suite™, SMEs can now rapidly transform and optimise their business operations with simplicity, flexibility and affordability.
Celcom Business Suite™ offers multiple digital solutions for SME businesses such as cloud-based e-POS, electronic payment, digital marketing solutions and additional productivity tools such as tablets and Microsoft Office365. This comprehensive end-to-end service enables businesses with all the right digital solutions, tailored to simplify digitalisation of smaller scale businesses.
Celcom’s participation as a Technology Solutions Partner with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), enables Celcom Business Suite™ offerings to qualify for the SME Business Digitalisation Grant. The grant, introduced by the government in Budget 2020, offers SMEs a 50% matching grant of up to RM5, 000 for any subscription of digital services such as electronic Point of Sales (e-POS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), electronic payroll system, Digital Marketing, Procurement, e-Commerce and Remote Working.
Celcom Business Suite also qualifies SMEs application for the SME Digital Matching Grant, introduced by the government through the Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan (PENJANA), in collaboration with telecommunication companies.
Local SMEs may register their interest at their site and experience a simplified digital transformation for their businesses. Over 250 touchpoints including Celcom dealers, channel managers, and selected bluecube nationwide are also ready to assist SME business owners to embark on their digital transformation.
For more information on Celcom Business Suite™ or wide range of product and services, latest updates and offerings from Celcom, please visit their site.
DIGI ANNOUNCEMENTS
Digi’s HR Super App, altHR rolls out altHR Sales Kit
Digi’s HR Super App, altHR rolls out altHR Sales Kit – a new module in the app which enables companies to store and allow employees to access relevant sales and marketing materials that can be shared to external parties, all on their own mobile devices.
With this, employees can access relevant company content on-the-go, such as brochures on current promotions, products or solutions, in various formats including images, documents and video links, within the altHR app. altHR Sales Kit further simplifies the work for dedicated sales teams, where they can carry digital sales kits anywhere without the need to invest in additional, complex software.
By using altHR Sales Kit, sharing information is simple as employees can immediately send the right files or folders through email, text message as well as social and chat platforms to potential customers. For example, product images, slides or demo videos can be sent out right from the altHR Sales Kit on their mobile devices during a sales presentation or upon receiving an enquiry. This helps in capturing the customer’s interest instantly and reduces human error in forgetting to follow up after meetings. Additionally, employees can capture lead information on the spot by filling up the forms created within altHR.
altHR Sales Kit empowers employees to be their company's ambassadors, placing the responsibility of business growth not just on the sales team, but on every single employee. Businesses can maintain up-to-date information about products and services, which employees are given access to share with their own contacts at any given time.
Through a simple one-stop solution, altHR Sales Kit equips employees to be well-versed with credible company information to best represent their company in and out of the workplace. Managing a variety of sales kits is made convenient on altHR, increasing the capability of your dedicated sales teams while keeping the rest up-to-speed. The synchronisation and accessibility provided by the altHR ensures that all employees can stay proactive and productive anywhere.
As a whole, altHR fulfils the expectations of companies in search of an integrated digital solution that goes above and beyond its mission as a HR app. The latest addition of altHR Sales Kit in the Super App enables companies to take a step further by upskilling a qualified line of well-informed employees in standing for their company and uncovering more avenues for growth.
For more information about altHR Sales Kit or to sign up for altHR, please visit their site.
ACRONIS ANNOUNCEMENTS
Acronis True Image 2021 combines backup with antimalware
Acronis, recently announced the release of Acronis True Image 2021. The new release integrates advanced cybersecurity capabilities with unmatched personal backup to create the first complete personal cyber protection solution for home users, prosumers, and small businesses around the world.
Delivery comes as the COVID-19 pandemic exposes gaps in traditional solutions and strategies. Securing home machines has never been more important, yet a recent Acronis survey found nearly half (47%) of remote workers never received clear guidance on working from home.
Incorporating cybersecurity capabilities such as real-time antimalware protection, on-demand antivirus scans, web filtering, and videoconference protection into Acronis True Image ensures users have complete cyber protection. For individuals and small business users, unifying these vital capabilities in one solution makes their protection easier to manage and more affordable, while greatly improving the security.
Standalone backup and cybersecurity are obsolete. With the modern reliance on everyday devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets, the data they contain has an inherent value. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their attacks to reach that data, which is why security research firms such as AV-Test report more than 350,000 new malware threats every day.
Since backup software and files are often the targets of these new attacks to prevent recovery, backup alone no longer provides suitable protection for users. Similarly, conventional cybersecurity solutions do not provide the data protection and recovery capabilities users need.
Relying on multiple products that were not designed to work together creates security gaps, is more complex to manage, and is more costly. With a single, integrated solution, Acronis True Image 2021 users can proactively stop any malware attack and then quickly restore affected files. The single, intuitive interface reduces the complexity of managing their security and backups.
Integration delivers superior cyber protection. For the last few years, Acronis True Image has been the only personal backup solution with a built-in antiransomware that stops attacks in real-time, while automatically restoring any affected files.
With the launch of Acronis True Image 2021, those capabilities are expanded with the addition of the company’s advanced antimalware technology, which is currently deployed in Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. This next-gen, full-stack antimalware has been shown by independent security labs such as Virus Bulletin and AV-Test to return a 100% detection rate with zero false-positives.
As a result, home users gain advanced capabilities with Acronis True Image 2021, including:
- Real-time protection, driven by AI-enhanced behavioral heuristics, which stops all malware – including zero-day attacks by never-before-seen threats
- On-demand antivirus scans of the full system or quick scans of at-risk files, either of which can be scheduled in advance or run instantly
- Web filtering that automatically blocks Windows users from accessing malicious websites that harbor malware, disinformation, scams, and phishing attacks
- Videoconference protection prevent hackers and malware injection attacks from exploiting popular apps like Zoom, Cisco Webex, and Microsoft Teams
- Comprehensive detection, with both behavioral analysis and signature-based analysis engines
These advanced antimalware capabilities are included with Advanced and Premium licenses, and offered as a three-month trial with Standard and Essential licenses.
Four versions of Acronis True Image are available: Standard, Essential, Advanced and Premium. One-computer licenses starting at SG$82 for Standard and SG$68 for Essential. Special launch prices for Advanced and Premium licenses (starting at SG$96 and SG$137, respectively) are available until November 2020, at which time the full MSRP will be in effect (starting at SG$123 and SG$171, respectively).
For more information, please visit their site.
KINGSTON ANNOUNCEMENTS
Kingston Launches Next-Gen KC2500 NVMe PCIe SSD in Malaysia
Kingston Technology, recently announced the KC2500, its next generation M.2 NVMe™ PCIe SSD for desktop, workstations and high-performance computing (HPC) systems. KC2500 NVMe PCIe SSD delivers powerful performance using the latest Gen 3.0 x 4 controller and 96-layer 3D TLC NAND. With speeds1 up to 3,500MB/s read and up to 2,900MB/s write, KC2500 combines outstanding performance and endurance that improves workflow for desktop, workstation and power users.
KC2500 is available in capacities up to 2TB2 housed in a compact M.2 2280 form factor that saves space for other components while allowing users to take advantage of PCIe speeds. The self-encrypting SSD supports a full-security suite for end-to-end data protection using AES-XTS 256-bit hardware-based encryption. It allows the usage of independent software vendors with TCG Opal 2.0 security management solutions such as Symantec™, McAfee™, WinMagic® and others. KC2500 has built-in Microsoft eDrive support, a security storage specification for use with BitLocker.
KC2500 is currently available in 250GB, 500GB and 1TB capacities with 2TB2 shipping soon. KC2500 is backed by a limited five-year warranty and free technical support.
For more information, visit their site.
MISC ANNOUNCEMENTS
Facebook: Mega Sales And Self-gifting In Malaysia Among Key Trends To Dominate Year-End Shopping In 2020
As COVID-19 drastically accelerated the adoption of new consumer trends driven by technological innovations and new consumption habits, the end-half of the year may just be the most highly anticipated season. According to a research update from Facebook IQ, Mega Sales and self-gifting are among the key insights that businesses should look into to maximise their business success during the holiday season.
Malaysia's retail landscape remains dynamic and is one of the hotspots for year-end shopping. From 9.9, to mega sale days like 10.10 and Single’s day on 11.11, Black Friday or Christmas, the year-end season is full of shopping moments that businesses and consumers still look forward to, despite the slowdown.
Facebook IQ’s Mega Sales & Holiday 2020 insight study outlined five rising trends that brands should take into consideration as part of their festive-season planning. These include:
- Gen X and Boomers dominate global mobile and ecommerce growth – People of all ages have been relying on mobile to stay connected, informed and shop during COVID-19, with 65 percent of Malaysians spending significantly more time using the device. Interestingly, 7 in 10 Gen X and Boomers have spent more time on mobile during the pandemic - with 40 percent now shopping online.
- The economic downturn will expedite the rise of Mega-Sales – A COVID-led economic downturn will undoubtedly impact consumers’ purchasing habits. In this season, price sensitivities will be heightened and we foresee many buyers waiting for Mega Sales Day. According to year-end shoppers surveyed, 12.12 is the most popular Mega-Sales events.
- Self-gifting and seasonal shopping reign supreme this meda sales season – Many have delayed purchases as a result of COVID-19. As the outbreak begins to ease, our study revealed that almost 84% percent of shoppers in Malaysia look to reward themselves across the year-end season, attributing to the rising trend of “self-gifting”.
- Cross-border shopping is still desirable to consumers – We see many shoppers trying out new behaviours, products and services during this pandemic. In this holiday season, more people will start exploring new product categories across borders- with Millennials and Gen X the most likely to do so and will look at purchasing products across the globe.
- Consumers value not just affordability but also the brand’s alignment with their personal values – During this pandemic, one crucial consumer expectation has surfaced: people expect brands to react with action, not just marketing gestures. Based on our study, year-end shoppers in Malaysia indicated that they wanted to see updates on the latest offers, informative and authentic content types from brands on Facebook. In addition, 50 percent of shoppers would like to see videos with a strong emphasis on family during the holiday season.
The study was conducted in partnership with YouGov from 2 December to 24 December, 2019, 48,348 people aged 18 years and above were surveyed across 31 markets on their seasonal shopping habits and attitudes. Results were also drawn and analysed from Facebook conversion and conversation data from 1 October, 2019 to 31 January, 2020. These insights are vital to businesses as they look to navigate the changing demands of the different generations and meet the needs of their consumers.
As brands pivot to meet the changing needs of consumers, it’s also important to incorporate these insights into the planning and execution of campaigns in order to be consistent in communication and experience that will create that unique and lasting image in today’s marketplace.
TIME Delivers Resilient Results in 1H 2020
TIME dotCom Berhad (“TIME” or “the Group”) announced its financial results for the half year period ended 30 June 2020 (“1H 2020”) today as the Group continues to focus on ensuring 100% network availability and stability for its customers as Malaysia remains on guard in facing the COVID-19 situation.
TIME recorded a consolidated Group revenue of RM598.8 million for 1H 2020, a 10.8% increase in revenue over the same period of the preceding year. This was a result of higher sales across all core product segments. Recurring revenue from data, data centre and voice grew 11.7%, 7.2% and 0.4%, respectively. All core customer groups also contributed to revenue growth, led by the Retail and Wholesale customer groups.
The Group recorded a profit before tax of RM223.5 million for 1H 2020, and ended the period with cash and cash equivalents of RM480.2 million as of 30 June 2020.
The economy is expected to face continued uncertainties and challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the country focusing on returning to normalcy. The impact of COVID-19 on the Group’s business has so far been modest and the impact has mostly been felt from the hospitality, tourism and aviation sectors. TIME remains vigilant and continues to closely monitor any changes and developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Group is focused on adopting pro-active measures to safeguard all its employees, while minimising potential disruptions to its operations.
Over the medium-term, the Group continues to support the Malaysian government in its national telecommunications objectives by strengthening and improving its existing domestic fibre network infrastructure as it concurrently intensifies efforts to expand its coverage footprint.
On the regional front, the Group will continue working with its partners in Thailand and Vietnam to tap on the increasing demand for cross border connectivity across the ASEAN region. Towards the goal of establishing the Group as a key regional data centre player and operator, the Group has embarked on the construction of a new data centre in Bangkok, Thailand, built in partnership with its associate Symphony Communications Public Company Limited, as well as, a new wholly owned data centre in Cyberjaya, Malaysia. Both data centres are expected to be operational by the end of the year and will serve to ensure continued future revenue growth and benefit the Group strategically in the longer term.
MDEC’s Kre8tif! 2020 Goes Virtual and Borderless with “Kre8tif!-vity Without Boundaries” Theme
The 11th edition of Kre8tif! will see the event, hosted by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), going completely virtual with a focus on inclusivity and globalisation through its “Kre8tif!-vity without Boundaries” theme.
Running from September 7 to 10, 2020, Kre8tif! 2020 will be the region’s hotspot for all types of digital content that are now trending and taking this sector to greater heights. As an industry-leading event, it will bring together movers-and-shakers in the animation, broadcast, licensing and merchandising, visual effects, digital technology, and content creation space.
Conferences, Workshops, Business Xchange (pitching and business matching) and Xhibition sessions at Kre8tif! 2020 will be headlined by international players and Malaysian creative content industry stalwarts. This includes, among others, Octopie Studios, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Weta Digital, Netflix, WarnerMedia Entertainment Network, Animonsta Studios, Primeworks Studio, MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems, Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), Muslim Kids TV, YouTube, Licensing international and WildBrain.
Kre8tif! 2020 is expected to attract over 2,000 participants from all over the region and has already connected and attracted a growing list of attendees who are keen to tap into the event’s growing credentials and expand their reach within the digital creative content space.
LG invites consumers around the world to IFA 2020 online
LG Electronics (LG) is sharing its vision for the home of the future at IFA 2020, taking place virtually for the first time in its 96 year history. Under the banner Life’s Good from Home, LG’s online exhibition booth will allow visitors to explore the company’s latest innovations from the comfort of their homes and mobile devices. LG’s IFA 2020 press conference will take place in Messe Berlin on September 3 at 11:00 CEST and livestreamed on the LG Global YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/GlobalLG).
Under the banner of Life’s Good from Home, Dr. I.P. Park, CTO of LG Electronics, will present the future vision for consumers to enjoy a safer and more convenient home living as people world over settle into new lifestyle habits. LG ThinQ Home Solution, making its world debut at IFA 2020, is the company’s innovative response to the new normal and exciting vision for how our life will look in the future.
With the cancellation of IFA’s exhibition in Berlin this year, LG created its own physical smart home showroom in Korea to demonstrate how LG products work seamlessly together to deliver the best home experience possible. For its IFA unveiling, K-pop star Henry Lau will take visitors on a virtual tour of the four story home highlighting all the ways the home contributes to comfort and maximum sustainability using LG technology. The home tour will be accompanied by an interactive video of a family residing in an LG home, which viewers can customize based on their choices.
In addition to its smart home showroom and interactive video content, LG’s virtual IFA booth will provide a compelling interactive experience of how the company is making home living more relaxing, efficient and rewarding. Visitors to LG’s IFA 2020 virtual booth will learn all about the benefits of the company’s comprehensive range of smart home appliances and integrated services by making their way through a variety of different zones.
Check out their site for more details.
TikTok and Media Prima Kicks off #KitaBersama Challenge in the Spirit of Merdeka
TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile video, partners with Media Prima, the largest integrated media group in Malaysia, to launch #KitaBersama in celebration of Malaysia’s Independence Day. From 17 August to 17 September, Malaysians are able to express their love for Malaysia through the campaign with an interactive Merdeka-themed feature, as well as earn points for redeemable vouchers through TikTok Rewards in support of local businesses, especially during this period.
TikTok creators can use Faizal Tahir’s song “Malaysia”, the official music for the #KitaBersama challenge, alongside the fun festive filter to create unique Merdeka themed videos.
As part of TikTok’s positive efforts in assisting the economic recovery of local businesses, TikTok is launching the second phase of their TikTok Rewards program throughout the Hari Merdeka to Malaysia Day period, from 24 August to 20 September. TikTok Rewards is a referral program that allows users to collect points and redeem vouchers from brand partners, such as foodpanda and Ikano Centres, to name a few. Over RM 300,000 worth of vouchers from Ikano Centres are available throughout their shopping centres IPC, MyTOWN, and Toppen.
TikTok Rewards aims to boost consumer confidence for businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic by helping brands connect with users nationwide. Being an effective channel for companies to drive brand awareness, TikTok Rewards encourages Malaysians to #SupportLocal products and services.
So what are you waiting for? Download or open the TikTok app now to check out the interactive challenges from the #KitaBersama campaign and learn how you can win exclusive vouchers and promotions from TikTok Rewards!
vivo Malaysia announces collaboration with Gan Jiang Han and Ho Yuhang for X50 movies
vivo has officially announced on the arrival of an exclusive motivational Short Film starring popular Malaysian television personality, Gan Jiang Han – produced entirely by vivo Malaysia. The film has been released on vivo’s official Facebook page.
In celebration of the recent launch of the luxurious X series, X50 and X50 Pro, Gan Jiang Han – who is known for his quick wit and unorthodox presenting style – has been featured in vivo’s upcoming X50’s short film, where the coming together of vivo and Malaysia’s beloved entertainment personality is expected to draw the interest of those especially from the Chinese Market.
In pairing up X50 Pro’s unique and advanced features together with this iconic Malaysian TV personality, the short film is set to make a huge impact on showcasing X50 Pro’s capability as a redefined photography flagship, while encouraging Malaysians to reset, recover and readjust to embrace the new norms after the life-changing Covid-19 experience.
In related news, in conjunction with Malaysia’s Merdeka Day, vivo Malaysia teamed up with renowned Netflix Malaysian Director, Ho Yuhang for the first time to pull off a light-hearted Merdeka Film celebrating the diversity in Malaysia.
Having recently unveiled its latest in X series virtually, the upcoming vivo’s exclusive National Day Blockbuster titled – “KITA” will be serving as the first film being shot entirely by vivo X50 Pro in Malaysia. With this, Director Ho Yuhang looked set to take this challenge on a whole new level on his career.
Kaspersky: Over 8-in-10 online users in SEA believe they are “safe” online amidst pandemic time
With more parts of human lives playing online as self-isolation measures remain or return across countries in Southeast Asia (SEA), a fresh survey by Kaspersky has unmasked users’ shift of behaviour and views online during this pandemic time.
The Kaspersky’s report titled “More connected than ever before: how we build our digital comfort zones” found out that majority (82%) of the respondents from the region think that their digital lifestyle is safe for their data’s privacy. This is 7% higher than the global average at 75%.
Conducted last May 2020 among 760 respondents from the region, the research also showed that only 1% of the users in SEA admitted that living virtually feels very unsafe for them, 2 notches lower than the world view at 3%. The remaining answered they feel unsafe (11%), still lower than global percentage at 16%, while some 5% were unsure.
Despite the high confidence in the region, survey respondents also admitted to being hacked online. Users acknowledged that their social media accounts (21%), their email accounts (20%), their mobile devices (13%), their Wi-Fi networks (12%), and their banking accounts (12%) have been hacked.
There’s another 2% who even confirmed their accounts have been compromised more than three or four times, while 24% are certain that their data had never been leaked. Almost 2-in-10 of the respondents also confessed they are not sure if their accounts were compromised ever as they do not know how to check (18%) while another 14% revealed they have never checked at all.
When asked about what they did after discovering their accounts’ security was breached, more than half of users (57%) in SEA changed their passwords to all relevant wireless devices and digital accounts and another 54% updated their security codes to only the affected wireless devices and digital accounts.
Only 23% of the respondents who experienced hacking installed security software to protect their accounts while 14% took their hacked devices to an IT expert. There was a small percent (4%) who chose to do nothing.
Boost Helps Micro & SMEs Future-Fit by Facilitating Business Shift
As part of the Government’s PENJANA Short-term Economic Recovery Plan, homegrown e-wallet Boost is committed to facilitate in digitising the country’s Micro and SMEs (MSMEs) by joining forces with the Government through Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to roll out the Micro & SMEs (MSMEs) E-commerce Campaign in a bid to help them future-fit their businesses to recover with resilience in this new normal.
With e-commerce increasingly being relied on as a safe, secure and convenient way to shop for essentials and lifestyle needs, businesses need to be able to adapt to keep with changing consumer behaviours in order to remain relevant. This is where Boost comes in to support and train businesses to digitise in order to reach a wider consumer base while simplifying the payments process. This is expected to lead businesses towards greater productivity and growth with the added advantage of receiving advertising and promotional support from Boost, on top of ZERO startup costs.
For the duration of the campaign period which runs from 1 August to 30 September, participating merchants may receive up to RM1,500 worth of rewards and benefits.
On top of that, Boost will be helping merchants digitize and move offline-to-online (O2O) by setting up their own e-commerce catalogue that is integrated with the Boost Business Payment Link feature to allow a seamless end to end online journey. This feature allows merchants to showcase their list of products which customers can easily browse, make an order and proceed to pay in a quick, hassle-free manner via the Boost App. This is a significant step towards transformation where they can pivot their existing business model and proven helpful throughout the MCO period. Boost Business Payment Link is a new innovation by Boost for merchants to collect payments via email, SMS or WhatsApp.
At the same time, Malaysians across the country can do their part to safely support local businesses while stimulating the local economy by using Boost for clean and safe contactless payments. To encourage users to support and spend at MSMEs, Boost will be providing cashback specifically for Boost users throughout the campaign period. Users will earn 20% cashback for a minimum spend of RM10 when payment is made using the Boost Payment Link. The cashback will be credited into the customers’ Micro & SMEs Partner Wallet that can be used at any participating MSME merchant in this Government and MDEC’s Micro & SMEs (MSMEs) E-commerce campaign.
To join the Boost MSME merchant community, interested merchants can sign up online at their site.
New Dell Latitude Chromebook Enterprise Provides the Confidence Businesses Need to Embrace Work From Anywhere
Chrome OS has accelerated its expansion within businesses amid the shift to work from anywhere. The new Latitude 7410 Chromebook Enterprise, a 14-inch premium business laptop or 2-in-1 from Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL), boosts productivity with on-the-go power, sophisticated security and fast connectivity features employees need.
With the Latitude 7410 Chromebook Enterprise, Dell expands its Latitude Chromebook lineup – now offering a mainstream and premium option – to give companies more choice in devices without sacrificing enterprise-class scale, manageability and security.
Work Anywhere: Designed for executives, mobile professionals and remote workers, the Latitude 7410 Chromebook Enterprise includes innovative security and productivity features, allowing employees to power up quickly with no time wasted on setting up the device. Co-engineered with Intel as part of the Project Athena innovation program, the Latitude 7410 Chromebook Enterprise offers LTE mobile broadband , Intel WiFi 6 and up to 10th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors to boost productivity and performance for bandwidth-intensive activities, such as working up to 8.6 times faster in Google Sheets .
Additional key features include:
- First-ever 4K panel with Low Blue Light display available on a Chromebook Enterprise : The Latitude 7410 provides better readability and eye comfort with built-in 4K low blue light display technology. An expansive, four-sided narrow border display also provides more screen to connect with colleagues, and acoustic noise reduction features that enhance video calls.
- World’s longest battery life of any premium Chromebook : With up to 21 hours of battery life , mobile professionals can complete tasks throughout the day. If they do need a charge, the device can charge quickly from 0% up to 35% in as little as 20 minutes with ExpressCharge Boost or get up to 80% charge in as fast as an hour with ExpressCharge .
- Ease of use: Employees and executives pressed for time can rely on one-hand assist to power the Latitude Chromebook in less than three seconds simply by opening the lid. For extra flexibility, the device comes with the one of the broadest array of ports available in a premium Chromebook Enterprise . Simple app access is available locally or online through the Chrome Browser or the managed Google Play Store. Employees get peace of mind with an optional built-in privacy panel and camera privacy shutter.
- Premium design: Professionals can choose between machined aluminum or carbon fiber on the world’s lightest 14-inch Chromebook Enterprise laptop . A new silver color is available on the Latitude 5400 Chromebook Enterprise to give more employees a modern look and feel.
Management and Security: As organisations prepare for long-term remote work, Dell Technologies Unified Workspace reduces IT complexity and allows IT leaders to deploy, secure, manage and support the Latitude Chromebook Enterprise. Available in more than 50 countries and with 14 localised language keyboards, companies can select and purchase various configurations to meet employee needs. IT can manage the devices with the same level of support, security and reliability they expect in a corporate environment, and have confidence in platform stability with the Intel® Stable IT Platform. They can service and upgrade storage and batteries and operate the same support model across their entire organisation.
Latitude 7410 Chromebook Enterprise laptop
- 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10310U
- 14.0" FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-glare, Non-Touch
- 8GB Memory
- M.2 256GB PCIe NVMe Class 35 SSD
- 4 Cell 52WHr ExpressCharge™ Capable Battery
- 3-year ProSupport
- 1.39kg (Carbon Fiber) RM 4,889
Available now.
Latitude 7410 Chromebook Enterprise 2-in-1
- 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10310U
- 14.0" FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-reflective and Anti-smudge, Super Low Power, Touch
- 8GB Memory
- M.2 256GB PCIe NVMe Class 35 SSD
- 4 Cell 52WHr ExpressCharge™ Capable Battery
- 3-year ProSupport
- 1.63kg (Aluminum) RM 5,859
Spotify Unveils New Social Distancing Trends
Spotify is back again with its latest instalment of streaming trends. While there was gardening, DIY haircutting, baking, dalgona coffee and home workouts in the last few months, this period is more about road tripping and staycations.
But that doesn’t mean everyone is taking to vacations. In fact, there are now more than 1.3M quarantine themed playlists on Spotify globally, and some of the most popular track additions between May 5-July 30 include: “Stuck With U” by Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber, “Bored In The House” by Tyga and Curtis Roach, “Be Kind (with Halsey)” by Halsey and Marshmello, “Lockdown” by Anderson Paak and fresh off Taylor Swift’s new album, her track “exile” with Bon Iver. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t offer a special shoutout to those quarantining solo who may have been the ones adding Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” to these playlists -- we hear you!
Here’s a round-up of other trends we’re seeing globally - note we’ve listed the timeframe for each trend.
Happier vibes: We’ve noticed a shift in the overall valence - or “vibe” - of the music listeners are streaming around the world. In July, we saw our listeners streaming more upbeat music compared to previous months. If July was the “happiest” month so far in 2020 then we can point to April as the month where listeners were streaming “sadder” or more downtempo tracks.
Road trip, anyone? With road trips more popular, we’ve seen a 92% increase in the creation of road trip playlists from June to July. And which countries have created the most road trip playlists? The United States came in first, followed by the UK, Australia, Canada and Germany.
Popular songs added across these road trip playlists include: “Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles, “Here Comes The Sun” by the Beatles, “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus and wind-down-the-window-and-belt-it-out jams like “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey, “Livin' On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi, “Hey Ya!” by OutKast and “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts.
Podcasts also made their way onto road trip playlists. Among the most-added shows: Stuff You Should Know, Crime Junkie, My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark and Ted Talks Daily.
Among road trip playlists curated by Spotify, Classic Road Trip Songs and 70s Road Trip are currently streaming the most.
Showing that many listeners are on the move, we’ve seen users stream music and podcasts in offline mode more in July compared to other months, with a 24% increase.
Let’s go (nowhere) on a staycation: Many people are likely staying close to home rather than travelling for vacations and we’ve seen nearly a 120% increase in the creation of “Staycation” themed playlists from June to July.
Popular picks for staycationers trying to capture vacation vibes through music include: “Summer Clothes” by Marc Scibilia, “Island In The Sun” by Weezer, “Summertime Magic” by Childish Gambino, “Kokomo” by the Beach Boys, “The Boys Of Summer” by Don Henly, “Paradise” by Bazzi, “Could You Be Loved” by Bob Marley & The Wailers, “Take Me Home” by Bryce Vine and “Señorita” by Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes.
The United States takes the top spot in creating staycation playlists, followed by the UK, Brazil, Canada and Ireland.
Is anyone bored? Yes. It turns out life has many feeling a little restless; more than 127,000 playlists have been created with “bored” or “boredom” in the title between May 5-July 30.
Top songs include: “I Don’t Care” by Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber, “when the party’s over” by Billie Eilish, “High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco and “The Less I Know The Better” by Tame Impala.
Streaming with friends: And while social distancing remains in effect in many parts of the world, we’ve seen listeners come together via Spotify’s Group Session feature that enables Premium listeners around the world to tune into the same playlist or podcast simultaneously.
Check out Spotify’s blog, For the Record, for even more details around the trends, we’re currently seeing on Spotify!
5 Netflix Life Hacks From Douglas Lim To Level Up Your Streaming Game
Ever wondered what questions and requests are sliding into our DMs? You know you’ve probably thought of sliding in a question or two at some point - whether it’s ‘Can I cast Netflix to my TV?” or the crowd favourite: “When is the new season of my favourite series launching?”
We’ve heard your burning questions and went in search of someone to take them on. Our new Chief Head Of inquiries (CHOI) - also Malaysia’s resident funny man, took up the challenge to help answer your questions! Here’s the DL from your favourite comedian himself:
1. What is Netflix and what devices can I watch it on?
Netflix is a streaming platform where you can catch hours of entertainment ranging from films to series, variety shows, documentaries and so much more across different genres and languages. The good news is that you can watch Netflix on ANY device! Your smartphone, tablet, or TV - semua pun boleh!
2. How do I register for Netflix and can pay without credit card ah?
To sign up, all you have to do is go to www.netflix.com and fill in your details, choose your plan - and you’re good to go! Senang je. And yes, you can pay without a credit or debit card. All you have to do is either choose to add your bill to your mobile service provider and pay through your postpaid bill. If you aren’t sure how to do this, just call the telco’s customer care line. You can also buy a gift card at the nearest convenience store and key in the code by going to Account>Redeem gift card or promo code.
3. Is there a huge difference between the plans?
The different plans are made to cater to different needs. If you’re malas to go and check out what each plan gives you, don’t worry - we’ll break it down for you:
Mobile Plan: The best plan for those who are always on-the-go, the mobile plan lets you stream EVERYTHING from the Netflix catalogue on any mobile phone or tablet. You can stream in Standard Definition (which is perfect for a mobile device). You can only stream on one device at a time and use features like ‘smart downloads’.
Standard Plan: This plan allows you to stream on any phone, tablet, computer or TV in High Definition (HD). You can stream on two devices at any one time which means you never have to fight about which show to watch ever again.
Premium Plan: If you think two screens aren’t enough (especially if you’re sharing with a big family) then the premium plan is the best option for you as it lets you watch on four different screens at the same - all in Ultra High Definition/4K! Perfect if you watch to get the full cinematic experience!
4. Is there a way to control what my kids watch?
One of the best features on the service is that you can create different profiles. This means that not only do you get to keep your show recommendations streamlined to your interest, but that you can create a separate kids profile (from Manage Profiles) to cater to your child. You can also prevent your kids from going into your profile by using a Profile PIN which is basically a 4-digit number that you activate so that your child can’t access your profile.
5. How do I get my favourite show on Netflix?
Yes, we understand the frustration that comes with going on Netflix to search for your favourite show and then finding out that it’s not on the platform yet! All you want is to be able to binge on your favourite series. We get it. The struggle is very real. If you think that there’s a show that absolutely has to be on Netflix, then head over to www.help.netflix.com/titlerequest and ask to get your favourite show on. Like all good things in life, cannot guarantee you will get lah, but if you don’t try, then you never know!
Now you know what goes on in our DMs. Catch the full 101 from Douglas Lim right HERE and then hit us up at @netflixmy and let us know if he should stay on as our CHOI okay?
Psst: Don’t let him convince you that he’s getting his own special yet kay?
MDEC urges start-ups to use ‘Malaysia Digital Hubs’
In conjunction with the #Saya Digital Month, the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has partnered with the ‘Malaysia Digital Hub’ operators to address their daily business operation challenges by offering these affected start-ups and entrepreneurs with an affordable daily ‘Digital Hub Pass,’ an ideal package to grow their businesses during post-COVID-
‘Malaysia Digital Hubs’ is an extension of the MSC Malaysia Cybercentre that was created for start-ups and digitally-powered businesses. It is specifically designed as hotbeds for innovation, digital co-working spaces and incubators using digital technologies in their respective fields of specialisation.
The Covid-19 pandemic has affected most start-ups, especially in continuing their business operations as they were faced with difficulties such as paying high rental costs and long-term contract durations. These start-ups are looking at flexible and cost-effective options, which MDEC believes that incubators and co-working spaces like Malaysia Digital Hubs can assist them.
Through these facilities, start-ups can access vital assistance such a mentorship, funding opportunities, accelerator programmes, corporate partnership and other business and digital development programmes.
The ‘Digital Hub Pass’ offers two packages, from as low as RM10.00 (per day) or RM40.00 (per week-5-day pass) for entrepreneurs to start their operations at the participating Malaysia Digital Hubs.
In total, there are seven certified ‘Malaysian Digital Hubs’ supporting over 400 startups. The “Malaysia Digital Hubs’ are also in partnership with other accelerators and tech-based multinational companies (MNCs) like Google, Amazon and Microsoft to build talent pool and provide funding opportunities (through partners like Cradle, Gobi Partners, etc), community engagements, events, mentorship, training, hackathons and various accelerator programmes.
The Malaysia Digital Hub is part of MDEC’s initiative to accelerate Malaysia’s digital economy growth, while ensuring socio-economic inclusivity by focusing on three key pillars: Digitally-skilled Malaysians, Digitally-powered businesses, and Digital investments.
At the moment, among the ‘Malaysia Digital Hubs’ that are supporting the ‘Digital Hub Pass’ initiative include Common Ground, CO., Dojo KL, UnionSPACE and WORQ located in the Klang Valley area.
Tech entrepreneurs, who are not existing tenants of the participating co-working spaces can obtain the ‘Digital Hub Pass’ directly from the selected ‘Malaysia Digital Hubs’, until 31 August 2020. More information on the Digital Hub pass may be obtained at their site.
Thanks for reading TechNavers and TechNave NewsByters. As always, stay tuned to TechNave.com and if you think your brand or PR should be in our latest issue of TechNave NewsBytes 2020, let us know.
COMMENTS