KUALA LUMPUR (May 22): Zetrix AI Bhd (KL:ZETRIX) has partnered Shenzhen Data Exchange Co Ltd (SZDEX) to jointly develop a cross-border data trading platform aimed at enabling secure and regulated data flows between Asean and China.

In a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on Friday, the two parties agreed to cooperate in the field of data with the aim of promoting the development and utilisation of data resources, enhancing data security and privacy protection, and strengthening cooperation in relevant policies, regulations and technological innovation.

The MOU seeks to combine "Zetrix AI’s decades-long track record as a pioneering innovator in the provision of digital government and related commercial services with SZDEX’s proven market leadership as operator of China’s national-level platform for data assetisation and trading," said Zetrix in a statement.

It added that the partnership will focus on the development of a regional data trading infrastructure, the establishment of an Asean-China cross-border data interconnection scheme and the creation of a broader cross-border data element ecosystem.

Zetrix AI said the platform is expected to establish data trading rules, quality control systems and security assurance mechanisms tailored to Asean’s characteristics.

The company said both parties will jointly explore and assess the feasibility and regulatory requirements for establishing and operating a data exchange in the Asean region.

The MOU, it said, will remain valid for a period of one year and is not expected to have any material effect on its earnings for the financial year ending Dec 31, 2026.

Zetrix AI's share price ended 2.5 sen or 3.05% lower at 79.5 sen on Friday, valuing the company at RM6.41 billion.