Stablecoins are often talked about as the bridge between crypto and traditional finance. But what actually makes a stablecoin “stable”, and where do they realistically fit within Malaysia’s financial system today?In this Part 2, we build on our previous discussion and zoom in on stablecoins, unpacking how they work, why regulators are cautious, and what risks issuers and users need to understand. This conversation follows Bank Negara Malaysia’s Discussion Paper on Asset Tokenisation and looks beyond the buzzwords to the legal and operational realities.Join our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, together with host Zach Shaw, as they explore:✅ What stablecoins really are and how they differ from tokenized deposits and CBDCs✅ Why “stability” depends on proper reserves, governance, and transparency✅ Who can issue stablecoins and why this matters under Malaysian law✅ Why stablecoins are unlikely to replace e-money, despite popular assumptions✅ Where stablecoins may play a meaningful role, especially in on chain transactions✅ The key legal, regulatory, and technology risks issuers cannot ignore💡 This episode makes one thing clear. Stablecoins are not about replacing e-wallets or buying everyday items. Their real potential lies in supporting on chain activity and tokenized assets, but only if regulation, safeguards, and infrastructure evolve alongside the technology.This podcast is produced by HHQ's Business Development team. For speaking enquiries, visit https://hhq.com.my/podcast/

As Malaysia moves beyond cash and e-money, a new form of value is beginning to take shape. Tokenized money is emerging as the next evolution in how funds move across systems, institutions, and borders.Grab a coffee and join this episode of The Legal Insight Podcast as we explore how blockchain-native money could reshape payment infrastructure, settlement processes, and the future of banking, following Bank Negara Malaysia’s Discussion Paper on Asset Tokenisation.Join our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, together with host Zach Shaw, as they unpack:✅ What tokenized money really means in practical terms✅ Why CBDCs and tokenized deposits are suddenly on every regulator’s agenda✅ How tokenized deposits could transform settlement speed and cross border transfers✅ The legal and structural differences between CBDCs and tokenized deposits✅ Who should be paying attention now, from banks and large corporates to policymakers and technology providers💡 This episode makes clear why tokenized money is not about crypto speculation. It is about the future foundations of the financial system, where money becomes programmable, faster to move, and more transparent🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on the latest episodes.This podcast is produced by HHQ's Business Development team. For speaking enquiries, visit https://hhq.com.my/podcast/

After introducing Malaysia’s new framework for Social Exchange Platforms in Part 1, this episode takes a closer look at who can raise funds and how those funds must be managed under this regulated structure.Join our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, together with host Zach Shaw, as they break down:✅ Who is eligible to raise funds through a Social Exchange Platform✅ The strict limits on how raised funds can be used✅ Why at least 80% of proceeds must go directly to the intended cause✅ How transparency and reporting build stronger public trust💡 Whether you lead a non-profit or advise one, this episode offers practical insights into what compliance really means and how this framework is setting a new benchmark for integrity in social fundraising.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes.This podcast is produced by HHQ's Business Development team. For speaking enquiries, visit https://hhq.com.my/podcast/

The Securities Commission Malaysia has introduced groundbreaking guidelines that set a new benchmark for how non-profits can raise funds transparently and responsibly.Grab a coffee and join this episode of The Legal Insight Podcast as we explore how this new framework is transforming how charity, technology, and governance intersect.In today’s episode, our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Khai Yi Lo, return with host Zach Shaw to explore: ✅ What a “social exchange platform” really is✅ How it bridges fintech innovation with social impact✅ The key registration and compliance requirements for operators✅ How the framework builds public trust and transparency for donors 💡 Whether you’re a non-profit leader, fintech founder, or policy watcher, this episode offers valuable insights into Malaysia’s next step in impact-driven regulation.This podcast is produced by HHQ's Business Development team. For speaking enquiries, visit https://hhq.com.my/podcast/

In the final episode of The Malaysia PDPA Authority Series, we wrap up our exclusive discussion with Prof. Dr. Mohd Nazri bin Kama, former Personal Data Protection Commissioner of Malaysia.This conversation goes straight to the heart of one of today’s biggest compliance challenges: data breach notifications. What really happens when a breach occurs? When do you have to notify the PDPC and affected individuals? And what are the risks if you don’t?Here’s what you’ll take away: • Why data breach incidents in Malaysia are rising sharply• The exact situations where notification is legally required• The consequences of failing to act, from fines to prison terms• How the PDPC actually monitors breaches, including on the dark web• A practical step-by-step guide for managing a data breach responseThis podcast is produced by HHQ's Business Development team. For speaking enquiries, visit https://hhq.com.my/podcast/Schedule a free DPO consultation call here: https://hhq.com.my/dpo/

In this second installment of The Malaysia PDPA Authority Series, we continue our exclusive conversation with Prof. Dr. Mohd Nazri bin Kama, former Personal Data Protection Commissioner of Malaysia.This episode takes a close look at the mandatory appointment of Data Protection Officers (DPOs). We explore what the law really requires, why companies should not treat it as a tick-box exercise, and how to make the right appointment for long-term compliance.Expect clarity, context, and real talk about: • The real purpose of the DPO as the “internal compass” for compliance• Why appointing the wrong DPO could expose companies to liability• The six key competencies every DPO must have• Outsourcing, training, or hiring — which model works best for your companyThis podcast is produced by HHQ's Business Development team. For speaking enquiries, visit https://hhq.com.my/podcast/Schedule a free DPO consultation call here: https://hhq.com.my/dpo/

The PDPA has changed—and so has the tone of enforcement.   In this first episode of The Malaysia PDPA Authority Series, we sit down with Prof. Dr. Mohd Nazri bin Kama, former Personal Data Protection Commissioner of Malaysia, to understand what the 2024 PDPA Amendments really mean for businesses, legal practitioners, and the future of privacy in Malaysia.   Expect clarity, context, and real talk about: • Why the PDPA is no longer a “paper tiger” • The top enforcement priorities for 2024 • How companies can finally get their compliance journey started • Practical steps for building a privacy-first culture

The conversation continues. The Securities Commission Malaysia is exploring tokenisation—what are the trade-offs? In Part 2 of our special series on the SC’s consultation paper, we examine the legal, technical, and operational considerations around tokenised capital market products. In this episode, Technology Practice Group Partners Ong Johnson and Khai Yi Lo are joined by Derrick Leong, Head of Legal and Compliance at IX Swap, with Zach Shaw hosting, to discuss:     • The rationale for dual record-keeping and its impact on blockchain solutions  • Key compliance considerations for issuers and registered market operators  • Enhanced disclosure requirements and SME readiness  • GTRM compliance: necessary safeguard or excessive burden?  • Next steps for Malaysia’s tokenisation roadmap   Whether you’re a legal advisor, regulator, or digital-asset entrepreneur, this episode offers a balanced look at the regulatory framework shaping Malaysia’s tokenisation journey.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on the latest episodes.

Tokenisation isn’t coming. It’s here.And the Securities Commission Malaysia wants your views.   Grab a snack and tune into this mega-episode of The Legal Insight Podcast, where we explore the SC’s public consultation paper on tokenised capital market products and what it means for fintech, legal, and investment players across the country.   In today’s episode, our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, return with special guest Derrick Leong, Head of Legal and Compliance at IX Swap, hosted by Zach Shaw, to unpack:   ✅ What tokenisation really means (yes, with Lego analogies)✅ Digital twin tokens vs. native tokens and why it matters✅ The SC’s phased approach, is it wise or too cautious?✅ Public vs. private chains and the battle of transparency vs. control✅ Why dual compliance could slow Malaysia’s fintech growth   💡 Whether you’re a legal counsel, regulator, or crypto founder, this is the regulatory debate you can’t miss.   🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on the latest episodes.

The “Wild West” days are over. Malaysia’s consumer credit space is going legit — and fast.In this Part 2 of our deep dive into the Consumer Credit Bill 2025, we go beyond the basics and into the practical challenges facing Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) providers and other fintech players.In this episode of the HHQ Legal Insight Podcast, our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Khai Yi Lo, join host Zach Shaw to answer the tough questions:✅ What happens if you operate BNPL without a licence?✅ What is the actual licensing process — and how strict is it?✅ Can startups survive the financial and regulatory hurdles?✅ What are the “fit and proper” tests for business owners?✅ Can you buy a BNPL business — or transfer a licence?✅ How should existing operators start preparing today?💡 If you're in fintech, compliance, or credit services — this episode is your survival guide.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes.

Fintech is growing up — and so are the regulations.Join us on The Legal Insight Podcast today as we unpack the Consumer Credit Bill 2025 — a game-changing law that’s about to reshape Malaysia’s consumer credit landscape. In this episode of the The Legal Insight Podcast by HHQ, join our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Khai Yi Lo, alongside host Zach Shaw, as they dive into:✅ What the Bill actually regulates — from BNPL to factoring & leasing✅ How the Bill draws the line between legal & illegal credit businesses✅ Why unlicensed operations could face RM5 million fines or jail time✅ Practical distinctions between BNPL vs. factoring vs. leasing✅ Why this law signals fintech’s shift from grey area to compliance era 💡 If you’re running or advising a fintech or credit business — this episode is your compliance wake-up call. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes.

With the latest amendments to Malaysia’s Personal Data Protection Act 2024, organizations are now legally required to report qualifying data breaches within 72 hours of discovery—or risk non-compliance. In this episode of the HHQ Legal Insight Podcast, join our Technology Practice Group Partners, Ong Johnson and Khai Yi Lo, alongside host Zach Shaw, as they dive into: ✅ What triggers a mandatory data breach notification under the PDPA ✅ The meaning of “significant harm” and how to assess it ✅ DPO’s role in managing incidents and reporting to the Commissioner ✅ 72-hour response timeline – what to do and how to act fast ✅ Practical actions companies must take in the first hours after a breach ✅ Notifying affected data subjects and managing reputational risk. If you’re responsible for compliance, legal risk, or cybersecurity, this episode is a must-listen. 💬 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐧𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞? Schedule a free consultation with our Technology Practice Group

In this episode of the Legal Insight Podcast, we dive into the critical requirements around appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) under Malaysia’s Personal Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2024. Schedule a free consultation at https://hhq.com.my/DPO Join Zach Shaw, along with Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, Partners of HHQ’s Technology Practice Group, as they unpack: • What exactly a DPO does and why the role is crucial. • Who needs to appoint a DPO under the new thresholds. • The pros and cons of appointing an internal vs outsourced DPO. • Key qualifications, skills, and responsibilities every DPO should meet. • Consequences of non-compliance with DPO appointment obligations. Whether you’re running a growing business or managing compliance for a large organization, this episode offers practical guidance on strengthening your data governance framework before the 1 June 2025 compliance deadline. 🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2 where we explore Data Breach Notification Obligations! 📌 Need help navigating Malaysia’s evolving data protection landscape? Reach out to our Technology Practice Group for a free DPO consultation.

In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the Personal Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2024 and what it means for businesses in Malaysia. Our guests, Ong Johnson, Head of the Technology Practice Group, and Lo Khai Yi, Co-Head of the Technology Practice Group at HHQ, break down: ✅ The three-stage rollout of the amendments 📅✅ What companies need to do to stay compliant 🏢✅ The introduction of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) – who needs one, what they do, and whether outsourcing is an option 🔍✅ The mandatory data breach notification requirement and its impact ⚠️✅ The right to data portability and how it gives individuals more control over their personal data 🔄 If you haven’t checked out Part 1, we highly recommend listening to that first! 💬 Got questions? Drop them in the comments or tune in for our upcoming webinar, where we’ll answer the most pressing queries. Follow Johnson & Khai Yi on LinkedIn for real-time updates on legal and regulatory changes. And don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead of the latest legal insights! 🎧

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Malaysia's latest Personal Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2024, a landmark legal reform that promises to strengthen data security and privacy rights in Malaysia. But the real question is—is this a game-changer in data protection, or just a paper tiger with no real bite? Our experts, Johnson and Khai Yi from HHQ’s Technology Practice Group, analyze the key changes, their enforceability, and whether businesses should expect real regulatory shifts or just more red tape. With regulators promising tougher enforcement, is this the turning point for data security in Malaysia, or just another legislative update with little practical impact?  Tune in now to uncover insights behind Malaysia’s latest data protection reforms.

In this episode, we dive deep into the critical topic of Cyber Security Incident Notification. What exactly qualifies as a cyber security incident? How should organizations respond when faced with one? Join us as we unpack the legal definitions, key triggers, and regulatory requirements under the Cyber Security Act. We’ll explore the meaning behind terms like “jeopardize” and “adversely affect,” and discuss real-world implications for businesses navigating today’s complex digital landscape. Whether you’re a legal professional, business leader, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into managing cyber risks effectively. 🎧 Listen now and stay informed on the latest in cybersecurity law in Malaysia.

In episode 13 of The Legal Insight Podcast, we unpack the pivotal licensing requirements introduced by the Cyber Security Act 2024 and their implications for service providers. Joined by the experts from HHQ's Technology Practice Group—Ong Johnson, Lo Khai Yi, and Nicole—we cover: 🔒 Who Needs a License? Key criteria for Managed Security Operation Centre Monitoring Services and Penetration Testing Services.📜 Application Process & Timeline: Deadlines, grace periods, and documentation tips.⚖️ Compliance & Penalties: Avoid fines up to RM500,000 and 10-year imprisonment.🌐 Impact on Foreign Providers: Operating in Malaysia under the new framework. Don’t miss out on this essential guide for navigating the legal landscape of cybersecurity services. Whether you're a provider, a business leader, or part of a corporate group, this episode has actionable insights for you.

In episode 12 of The Legal Insight Podcast, we dive deep into the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) with insights from Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, heads of HHQ’s Technology Practice Group. Discover the implications of the Act's prohibited AI practices and how they impact innovation and compliance. From Manipulative and Exploitative AI Systems to Social Scoring and Biometric Categorisation, we break down the Act's regulations, their rationale, and what businesses must do to navigate them. 🎙 Key Highlights: The ethics and risks behind Manipulative and Exploitative AI. Social Scoring AI Systems: Where dystopia meets regulation. Consequences of non-compliance: Fines and global enforcement. Practical steps for companies to audit, adapt, and align with the EU AI Act. Tune in to explore how this groundbreaking legislation reshapes the intersection of AI, ethics, and compliance.

In Episode 11 of The Legal Insight Podcast, we’re diving deep into the European Union’s groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence Act, set to reshape AI regulation across industries. Join hosts Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi, Technology Practice Group leaders at HHQ, as they unpack what this new legislation means for companies operating in the EU and beyond - from a Malaysian perspective. We’ll explore the Act’s risk-based approach, the classification of high-risk AI systems, and the impact of prohibited AI practices, offering a comprehensive guide to understanding compliance obligations. From practical steps for risk management to data governance, this episode is packed with insights for legal teams, compliance officers, and AI developers alike who are navigating this new regulatory landscape. Tune in to learn how the EU AI Act will influence innovation, ethics, and business operations in the age of artificial intelligence. Johnson, Head of Technology Practice Group, HHQ Khai Yi, Co-Head of Technology Practice Group, HHQ

In Episode 10, we continue with Part 2 of diving into DeFi, NFTs, and central bank digital currencies (CBDC) with a special guest, Derrick Leong: Johnson, Head of Technology Practice Group, HHQ Khai Yi, Co-Head of Technology Practice Group, HHQ Special Guest: Derrick Leong, Head of Legal & Compliance at IX Swap—the pioneering DeFi platform enabling the trading of real-world assets (RWA) through licensed custodians and broker-dealers. IX Swap’s mission is to democratize access to private market investments and tackle illiquidity using blockchain technology like Automated Market Making (AMM), liquidity pools, and DeFi.