MalaysianUpdates

Author: Farihin Azlan

  • Gardenia Kembalikan Senyuman Murid pada Hari Pertama Persekolahan 2026 dengan Squiggles yang Enak

    Gardenia Kembalikan Senyuman Murid pada Hari Pertama Persekolahan 2026 dengan Squiggles yang Enak

    Bagi mencipta kenangan manis serta memeriahkan hari pertama persekolahan sesi 2026, Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn. Bhd. menerusi jenamanya Gardenia Squiggles telah mengedarkan lebih 1,300 pek snek enak kepada murid-murid Tahun 1 hingga Tahun 6 di Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Sri Damansara 1, Selangor. Program yang berlangsung dari jam 6.30 hingga 10.00 pagi itu merupakan sebahagian daripada inisiatif Kembali ke Sekolah Bersama Gardenia Squiggles 2026, yang bertujuan menceriakan suasana hari pertama sekolah, khususnya bagi murid Tahun 1 yang berdepan rasa gementar memulakan alam persekolahan baharu.

    Menurut Pengurus Kanan Pemasaran Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn. Bhd., Puan Ena Suhaila Abas, hari pertama persekolahan sering menjadi detik penuh debaran bukan sahaja kepada murid, malah ibu bapa. Sehubungan itu, Gardenia tampil membawa keriangan dan sentuhan kasih sayang melalui snek Squiggles yang bukan sekadar snek biasa, tetapi roti roll yang membangkitkan nostalgia dalam setiap gigitan. Dengan dua perisa kegemaran ramai iaitu Funky Strawberry dan Choco Malto, Squiggles terus menjadi pilihan yang menceriakan kanak-kanak tanpa mengira usia.

    Kehadiran pasukan Gardenia di pintu masuk sekolah turut menceriakan suasana apabila murid-murid disambut dengan senyuman dan edaran Gardenia Squiggles seawal ketibaan mereka. Lebih istimewa, 10 orang murid terawal yang hadir ke sekolah turut menerima hadiah khas sebagai tanda penghargaan serta galakan untuk memupuk disiplin dan semangat memulakan hari persekolahan dengan lebih positif. Program ini turut diserikan dengan sesi interaksi ringkas dan aktiviti kuiz semasa perhimpunan, yang berjaya mencetuskan keterujaan dan keyakinan murid untuk tampil ke hadapan menjawab soalan serta memenangi hadiah.

    Inisiatif ini mencerminkan komitmen berterusan Gardenia dalam menghargai komuniti sekolah, termasuk guru, ibu bapa dan murid, di samping menyokong pembelajaran positif serta pembentukan generasi yang ceria, aktif dan bertenaga. Gardenia juga berhasrat untuk meneruskan dan memperluaskan program seumpama ini ke lebih banyak sekolah pada masa hadapan sebagai usaha menyemai motivasi, semangat dan kecemerlangan dalam kalangan murid sekolah di seluruh negara.

  • Nippon Paint projects that Malaysia’s construction sector will transition into a high-value phase beginning in 2026

    Malaysia’s construction industry is poised to enter a new phase of high-value growth in 2026, driven by the completion of major infrastructure projects, expanding industrial activity, and rising life-cycle demands from an ageing building stock, according to Nippon Paint Malaysia. Recent data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia shows that the value of construction work done rose by 12.9% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2025, reflecting strong momentum across infrastructure, commercial, and residential segments. Looking ahead, the sector is projected to sustain growth of approximately 6.1% in 2026, supported by continued capital expenditure and strategic direction under the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030), signalling a clear shift toward more specialized and high-value construction activities.

    Nippon Paint Malaysia General Manager Tay Sze Tuck said the company expects steady industry growth next year as large-scale infrastructure projects reach critical milestones and industrial expansion gains pace. Mega developments such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link are progressing into advanced structural, finishing, and systems stages, where demand extends beyond basic civil works to specialized materials and integrated solutions. With Budget 2026 allocating RM81 billion for public development, there is increasing emphasis on materials that enhance durability, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and support Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) objectives, positioning infrastructure finishing as a key growth engine for the sector.

    Industrial expansion is also emerging as a major driver, particularly in manufacturing, warehousing, and cold-chain logistics, as Malaysia strengthens its role in regional supply chains and advanced manufacturing. Nippon Paint highlighted growing demand for high-performance, compliant building materials, especially in industrial flooring systems where hygiene, safety, and operational continuity are critical. As industrial standards rise, developers and operators are prioritizing certified, durable, and compatible systems that can withstand heavy usage, chemical exposure, and stringent cleanliness requirements.

    At the same time, refurbishment is set to become an increasingly important segment in 2026, as more than half of Malaysia’s commercial and residential buildings are now over 20 years old. Age-related issues such as water leakage, surface deterioration, corrosion, and structural defects are driving building owners to seek long-term, cost-effective solutions rather than short-term repairs. Nippon Paint’s Total Coating & Construction Solutions (TCCS) approach addresses this need by offering integrated refurbishment services, from diagnostics and surface preparation to compatible material systems and professional application, all supported by certified applicators and warranties.

    Looking ahead, Nippon Paint Malaysia expects 2026 to be a year of balanced and sustainable progress for the construction industry, underpinned by infrastructure completion, industrial growth, and refurbishment demand. The company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting developers, contractors, and property owners with end-to-end, high-performance solutions that enhance safety, durability, sustainability, and long-term performance, while contributing to the development of more resilient, energy-efficient, and future-ready buildings and infrastructure across Malaysia.

  • Plan Your Weekend: Kuala Lumpur Tower Launches Visit Malaysia 2026 Festivities with ‘100 Bear’ Exhibit and Mascot Extravaganza

    Kuala Lumpur Tower is set to kick off the Visit Malaysia 2026 celebrations with an exciting, family-friendly weekend activation from 16 to 18 January 2026. The iconic landmark will be transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural and interactive experiences, inviting families, tourists, and culture enthusiasts to engage with Malaysia’s tourism in a fun and memorable way.

    Central to the festivities is the “100 Bear Exhibition,” featuring 100 life-sized mascot statues — 50 Wira and 50 Manja — inspired by the Malayan Sun Bear, a native and protected species. These mascot displays will be spread across the Tower Terrace, Observation Deck, and Sky Terrace, offering visitors countless photo opportunities against panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur. Complementing the exhibition is a historic meet-and-greet session, where Visit Malaysia 2026 mascots Wira and Manja will appear alongside Kuala Lumpur Tower’s own mascots, Kay Elle and Tawa. Visitors can enjoy interactive photo sessions, complimentary mascot hand fans for early arrivals, and striking giant balloon installations at the Tower entrance.

    Adding to the lively atmosphere, each mascot appearance will be accompanied by live traditional Malay Kompang performances, bringing Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage to the heart of the city. “This collaboration supports the Visit Malaysia 2026 agenda by positioning Kuala Lumpur Tower as a high-visibility platform for national tourism storytelling. Through simple, engaging, and family-friendly experiences, we are pleased to contribute to amplifying Malaysia’s tourism message for both local and international visitors,” said En. Khairil Faizal Hj Othman, Chief Executive Officer of LSH Service Master Sdn. Bhd.

    The weekend-long activation promises something for everyone. Mascot appearances are scheduled in three sessions daily — 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, and 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm — while live Kompang performances will run from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, and 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to come for the breathtaking city views, stay for the 100 Bear Exhibition, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur Tower.

  • HIND RAJAB: SUARA KECIL YANG HILANG DI DUNIA YANG MEMBISU

    HIND RAJAB: SUARA KECIL YANG HILANG DI DUNIA YANG MEMBISU

    Hind Rajab Hamada, seorang kanak-kanak Palestin berusia enam tahun, menjadi saksi tragedi yang memilukan ketika hidupnya terancam di Gaza. Pada 29 Januari 2024, kereta yang dinaiki Hind bersama keluarganya diserang, menyebabkan kematian enam ahli keluarganya. Dalam situasi yang menakutkan itu, Hind menghubungi perkhidmatan kecemasan Palestin dengan suara yang kecil dan penuh harapan, memohon bantuan dengan berkata, “Please come.” Selama lebih dua jam, dia bertahan di talian telefon, memberitahu bahawa dia takut dan semua orang di sekelilingnya sudah tidak bergerak. Namun, walaupun dunia mendengar rintihannya, bantuan yang dijanjikan tidak sampai.

    Ambulans yang tiba kemudian turut menjadi sasaran serangan, dan dua paramedik yang hadir dalam misi menyelamat itu turut terkorban. Hind akhirnya ditemui tidak bernyawa bersama enam ahli keluarganya pada 10 Februari 2024, selepas pengunduran tentera Zionis. Sepanjang kejadian tragis itu, sebanyak 355 butir peluru menembusi kenderaan mereka. Tragedi ini menimbulkan persoalan mendalam tentang kemanusiaan dan keperluan dunia untuk melindungi mereka yang paling tidak berdosa. Hind Rajab bukan sekadar mangsa konflik, tetapi simbol kegagalan dunia untuk menghargai nyawa kanak-kanak yang tidak bersalah.

    Filem The Voice of Hind Rajab mengangkat kisah nyata ini, membawa penonton merasai trauma, ketakutan, dan harapan yang pernah dialami oleh Hind. Ia bukan hanya sebuah filem, tetapi panggilan untuk solidariti, empati dan kesedaran global. Setiap tayangan menjadi satu bentuk sokongan terhadap perjuangan kemanusiaan, mengingatkan bahawa suara seorang kanak-kanak, walaupun kecil, memiliki kuasa untuk menyentuh hati dan menggugah hati nurani. Hind mungkin sudah tiada, tetapi suaranya tetap bergema, mengingatkan kita bahawa setiap nyawa adalah berharga dan perlu dilindungi. Filem ini kini boleh ditonton di pawagam terpilih di seluruh Malaysia, mengajak penonton untuk berdiri bersama suara mereka yang tidak bersuara.

  • 2026 KIM JAE JOONG J-Party Asia Tour Fan Concert “GALAXY 1986” – Singapore Edition

    2026 KIM JAE JOONG J-Party Asia Tour Fan Concert “GALAXY 1986” – Singapore Edition

    Kim Jae Joong, the multi-talented K-pop singer, songwriter, and actor, is set to captivate fans in Singapore with his highly anticipated 2026 J-Party Asia Tour Fan Concert “GALAXY 1986”. Scheduled for Saturday, 28 March 2026 at the Arena @ EXPO, this marks Kim Jae Joong’s first solo concert in Singapore, promising an unforgettable evening of music, memories, and emotional resonance. Since his debut in 2003, Kim Jae Joong has built a successful solo career spanning rock and pop releases, drama OSTs, and acting roles in K-dramas and films, earning him a reputation as a versatile and charismatic performer.

    The theme of “GALAXY 1986” reflects the interstellar journey of his 23-year artistic career, illustrating the deep and heartfelt bond between Kim Jae Joong and his fans, who have supported him through every stage of his evolution. The concert will feature a carefully curated setlist of fan favorites and classic hits presented with renewed depth, alongside intimate fan interactions such as Sound Check and Hi-Bye sessions, signed posters, photo-cards, polaroids, and group photos, continuing the cherished tradition of J-Party fan engagement. Fans can expect performances that showcase not only his musical talents but also his growth as an artist and storyteller, delivering a night that sparkles with nostalgia, beauty, and celestial brilliance.

    Tickets for the Singapore concert are priced across six categories, offering fans a range of options to experience the show:

    CategoryTicket Price (SGD)
    VIP$278
    CAT 1$248
    CAT 2$218
    CAT 3$188
    CAT 4$148
    CAT 5$128

    Presales begin on 21 January 2026 through DAMAI and MAISEAT, while public sales start on 22 January 2026 via all SISTIC channels. Fans are encouraged to follow @slidingdoorsentertainment.asia on Instagram for the latest updates. GALAXY 1986 promises to light up the Singapore stage with music, emotion, and an unforgettable fan experience.

  • TAHNIAH! THE VOICE OF HIND RAJAB SEKARANG BOLEH DITONTON DI KEDAH & KUANTAN!

    TAHNIAH! THE VOICE OF HIND RAJAB SEKARANG BOLEH DITONTON DI KEDAH & KUANTAN!

    Filem The Voice of Hind Rajab kini rasmi ditayangkan di Kedah dan Kuantan, menjadikan rakyat di negeri-negeri ini antara yang berpeluang menyaksikan kisah kemanusiaan seorang kanak-kanak dari Gaza di pawagam GSC. Lokasi tayangan termasuk Aman Central, Amanjaya Mall dan Kuantan City Mall, memberikan akses mudah kepada penonton tempatan untuk menyertai solidariti melalui sokongan mereka. Filem ini bukan sekadar hiburan, tetapi simbol suara rakyat Malaysia yang peduli terhadap isu kemanusiaan, menunjukkan bahawa setiap tiket yang dibeli dan setiap pawagam yang penuh menjadi bukti sokongan nyata kepada perjuangan kemanusiaan di Palestin.

    Kesempatan menayangkan filem ini di Malaysia adalah satu penghormatan, memandangkan tidak banyak negara diberi peluang untuk menayangkan karya ini. Sokongan rakyat melalui penonton dan perkongsian di media sosial akan membantu menyebarkan mesej penting filem ini, selain menekankan kepentingan empati, solidariti dan kesedaran global. Dengan sambutan berterusan, kemungkinan tayangan di negeri lain seperti Kulim dan Perlis juga boleh menjadi kenyataan, mengukuhkan lagi peranan rakyat Malaysia sebagai suara kemanusiaan.

  • AJAKAN UNTUK SELURUH RAKYAT MALAYSIA! #GERAKANSUARAMALAYSIA. SUDALAH MASANYA UNTUK KITA BERSATU MELALUI THE VOICE OF HIND RAJAB

    AJAKAN UNTUK SELURUH RAKYAT MALAYSIA! #GERAKANSUARAMALAYSIA. SUDALAH MASANYA UNTUK KITA BERSATU MELALUI THE VOICE OF HIND RAJAB

    Filem The Voice of Hind Rajab mula ditayangkan di pawagam Malaysia pada 8 Januari 2026, mengetengahkan kisah kemanusiaan seorang kanak-kanak dari Gaza. Filem ini menyorot usaha menyelamat, koordinasi misi bantuan serta realiti konflik yang menguji nilai sejagat, sekaligus membawa mesej universal tentang empati dan solidariti. Sambutan awal penonton di Malaysia sangat menggalakkan; maklum balas positif pada malam tayangan perdana mendorong penambahan lokasi tayangan daripada 17 kepada 29 pawagam di seluruh negara, menandakan sokongan rakyat Malaysia bukan sekadar tontonan, tetapi sebagai suara kemanusiaan.

    Di peringkat antarabangsa, filem ini telah mencatat kejayaan luar biasa, dengan Perancis menjadi pasaran dengan kutipan box office tertinggi sebanyak $2,389,340 sejak hari pertama tayangan pada 26 November 2025. Kejayaan ini membuktikan mesej yang dibawakan filem ini diterima merentasi sempadan agama, budaya dan bahasa. Dengan majoriti penduduk Islam di Malaysia sekitar 65 peratus, sokongan nyata penonton tempatan berpotensi memberi impak yang lebih besar dalam menegakkan solidariti terhadap isu Palestin.

    Sebagai tanda sokongan, Media Prima akan menyumbangkan RM1 daripada setiap tiket yang terjual kepada Tabung Kemanusiaan Palestin Media Prima, menjadikan setiap tiket bukan sekadar hiburan, tetapi satu bentuk bantuan dan penyataan solidariti. Filem ini mengajak rakyat Malaysia untuk bertindak, memenuhi pawagam dan menjadi suara mereka yang memerlukan. The Voice of Hind Rajab bukan hanya inspirasi kisah benar, tetapi juga panggilan untuk rakyat Malaysia berdiri teguh dalam menyokong kemanusiaan.

  • Lotus’s Makes Chinese New Year Shopping Easier and More Rewarding with Semuanya Ekstra Ongsem

    Lotus’s Makes Chinese New Year Shopping Easier and More Rewarding with Semuanya Ekstra Ongsem

    Lotuss Stores (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (Lotus’s Malaysia) ushers in the Year of the Fire Horse with the launch of its Chinese New Year 2026 festive campaign, “Semuanya Ekstra Ongsem; 真好价，更HO SEH”, reaffirming its commitment to making festive celebrations more affordable, convenient and stress-free for Malaysians. Built around the concept of “Ekstra” — extra value, extra care and extra thoughtfulness — the campaign goes beyond discounts to offer a complete festive shopping experience, covering everything from daily groceries and reunion dinner essentials to rewards, activities and immersive in-store experiences.

    According to Lee May Li, Commercial Director of Lotus’s Malaysia, the campaign is centred on delivering practical value without compromise. In addition to attractive deals, Lotus’s has placed extra emphasis on curating relevant products, meaningful rewards and engaging activities that reflect how Malaysians truly celebrate Chinese New Year. By offering a well-balanced festive assortment that combines quality, affordability and everyday essentials, the retailer aims to help customers save time while enjoying the season with greater peace of mind.

    From 1 January to 25 February, shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 50 per cent on more than 1,500 festive essentials across categories such as groceries, fresh produce, health and beauty, home living, fashion and electrical appliances. Highlights include exclusive Lotus’s products like Golden Lotus Jasmine Sun White Rice and specially-sized beverages, attractive reunion dinner promotions on premium seafood such as XXL prawns, abalone and bay scallops, as well as twin-bundle deals on Lotus’s Own Brand staples. Gifting is made easier with Chinese New Year hampers from RM98 and premium fruit gift boxes, while festive fashion, home, lifestyle and beauty items are also available at compelling discounts.

    Media members and brand partners (Maggi, Mondelez and Coca-Cola) joined in the symbolic dumpling making session together with the guidance of Chef Hakimi from Nestle. The ingredients of the dumplings are all sourced from Lotus’s, with the simple recipe from Nestle.

    To further elevate the festive spirit, Lotus’s introduces CNY World at 31 selected outlets nationwide. These experiential zones feature interactive activities, product sampling, live cooking demonstrations and brand-led games, transforming routine shopping into a celebratory experience. Customers who participate stand a chance to win prizes from a RM700,000 pool, including premium vehicles such as the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, Proton e.MAS 7 Premium SUV and JAECOO J7 SUV, as well as Thermomix kitchen appliances.

    Exclusive rewards are also available for My Lotus’s members, with total prizes worth RM888,888 up for grabs. Members who spend a minimum of RM128 per receipt and submit their entries via the Lotus’s Malaysia App can qualify for weekly cash rewards and grand prizes, adding further value to their festive shopping. Complementing the in-store activities are nationwide roadshows and collaborations, including MY FM DJ appearances, My Lotus’s roadshows with freebies for members and an exclusive KYO collaboration offering prizes such as smartphones, gold bars, premium appliances and cash rewards.

    Yee Sang tossing joined by Lee May Li, Lotus’s Commercial Director (third from left – in black), Neil Gurusamy, Lotus’s Malaysia COO (second from right), brand partners Maggi, Mondelez, official beverage partner Coca-Cola, and media members.

    Recognizing the needs of businesses and bulk buyers, Lotus’s also provides dedicated support for HoReCa operators and organizations requiring large-scale purchases or festive gifting. Professional HoReCa Business Counters are available at selected stores, while customer service teams nationwide are on hand to assist. The campaign was officially launched through an immersive media event with brand partners such as Maggi, Mondelez and official beverage partner Coca-Cola, featuring festive activities like dumpling-making and Yee Sang tossing — underscoring Lotus’s promise of making Chinese New Year celebrations easy, rewarding and truly “ekstra” for all.

    To learn more about the ongoing activities under Lotus’s Malaysia’s Semuanya Ekstra Ongsem banner,
    refer to its official channels at:

  • The PayNet Fintech Hub Fuels the Next Phase of Malaysia’s Ecosystem Growth

    The PayNet Fintech Hub Fuels the Next Phase of Malaysia’s Ecosystem Growth

    Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) is accelerating the growth of Malaysia’s fintech ecosystem through the PayNet Fintech Hub, a structured, impact-driven initiative designed to help local fintech startups build, test and scale innovative solutions. Launched in May 2025, the Hub has strengthened the visibility of Malaysian fintechs both locally and internationally by providing direct access to industry partners, capital support and hands-on mentorship, positioning it as a key enabler of sustainable fintech growth in the country.

    In less than a year, the PayNet Fintech Hub has delivered measurable impact to 50 fintech startups, supported by an extensive network of 50 ecosystem partners spanning banking, technology, investment and shared services. Collectively, participating fintechs have received more than RM5 million in value-added support, including RM3 million in cloud credits and over 450 hours of mentorship. These startups have also raised more than US$1 million in funding, with solutions that have the potential to benefit over eight million underserved Malaysians and approximately 800,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    According to PayNet Chief Marketing Officer Gary Yeoh, the Hub is designed to translate innovation into real-world outcomes. Through proof-of-concepts developed alongside industry partners, fintech solutions are already addressing everyday financial challenges, from smart contracts that improve trust and operational efficiency, to cashback programmes on essential items and buy now, pay later services tailored for convenience stores. These initiatives reflect the Hub’s focus on advancing financial inclusion for MSMEs while enhancing access to practical, consumer-centric financial services.

    The Hub has facilitated 11 collaboration opportunities involving 26 fintechs, including seven fintech-corporate pilots and four fintech-to-fintech partnerships. Among the initiatives supported through the RM1 million PayNet Credit Fund are Buzz’s optical character recognition-powered cashback engine developed with Touch ’n Go, as well as Fluid’s payment digitalization project in collaboration with a global fast-moving consumer goods brand. These pilots underscore the Hub’s role as a bridge between innovation and industry adoption.

    Community engagement remains a cornerstone of the Hub’s strategy. Its flagship TGI Friday (TGIF) event held in October 2025 attracted more than 200 founders, investors, financial institutions and ecosystem partners, highlighting the growing momentum and collaborative spirit within Malaysia’s fintech landscape. Such platforms have reinforced the Hub’s position as a convenor for meaningful dialogue, partnership-building and ecosystem development.

    Operating across three core tracks—Community, Catalyst and Collaboration—the PayNet Fintech Hub supports startups at different stages of growth, from scaling and global exposure to real-world deployment. A major milestone in its evolution is the launch of the Catalyst phase on 1 December 2025 through a bespoke immersive programme at Imperial College London. Under the PayNet x Imperial Catalyst Programme, 10 Malaysian fintechs are currently participating in a first-of-its-kind, 10-week curriculum tailored specifically for Hub founders.

    The programme offers hands-on exposure to global best practices, market insights and mentorship, while ensuring relevance to Malaysia’s fintech, regulatory and banking environment. Participants completed a week-long series of curated lectures and mentorship sessions at Imperial’s London campus, followed by nine weeks of virtual sessions focused on translating global learnings into Malaysian use cases. The programme will culminate in a Demo Day in March 2026, marking a significant step in preparing Malaysian fintechs to scale and compete on the global stage.

    As a not-for-profit initiative under PayNet, which serves as the backbone of Malaysia’s national payments infrastructure, the Fintech Hub reflects PayNet’s broader mission to enable secure, efficient and inclusive financial services for the rakyat. By applying this purpose to the fintech ecosystem, the Hub aims to strengthen the national fintech pipeline while supporting Malaysia’s long-term goals in digital finance and financial inclusion.

    For more information on the PayNet Fintech Hub, please visit: https://fintechhub.paynet.my/ 

  • Menerusi single terbaharu “Tolong”, Irfan Haris memperlihatkan sisi emosinya yang lebih mendalam.

    Menerusi single terbaharu “Tolong”, Irfan Haris memperlihatkan sisi emosinya yang lebih mendalam.

    Sebagai pembuka tirai tahun 2026, penyanyi muda berpengalaman Irfan Haris tampil dengan sebuah karya yang sarat emosi dan kejujuran menerusi single terbaharunya berjudul “Tolong”. Lagu ini bukan sekadar sebuah balada cinta, sebaliknya menjadi luahan jiwa tentang perasaan bergantung, ketakutan kehilangan serta keberanian untuk merendahkan ego demi insan tersayang. Diterbitkan oleh Sony Music Entertainment Malaysia, “Tolong” menandakan satu fasa kematangan Irfan sebagai seorang penyanyi yang kini lebih yakin menyampaikan emosi secara jujur dan bersahaja, tanpa perlu bergantung kepada sensasi atau elemen teknikal berlebihan.

    Selepas kejayaan “Rasa & Takdir”, duet istimewa bersama kakaknya Amira Othman yang mencatat hampir empat juta tontonan di YouTube, Irfan memilih haluan berbeza dengan “Tolong”. Lagu ini dibina dalam ruang yang lebih tenang dan reflektif, membenarkan emosi bernafas dan perasaan dizahirkan tanpa berselindung. Susunan muzik yang kemas oleh Wan Saleh serta melodi dan lirik hasil ciptaan Dr. Syafiq Rashid menjadikan karya ini sederhana dari segi persembahan, namun mendalam dari segi makna dan mesej.

    Menurut Irfan, “Tolong” merupakan antara lagu paling dekat dengan hatinya kerana ia mencerminkan perasaan sebenar yang pernah dilalui. Beliau memilih untuk membiarkan emosi memimpin penyampaian, berbanding mengejar vokal tinggi atau teknik yang berlebihan. Pendekatan ini menyerlahkan kematangan seorang penyanyi yang memahami bahawa emosi yang sampai ke hati pendengar adalah jauh lebih bernilai daripada sekadar kekuatan vokal.

    Dari sudut penulisan, perkataan “Tolong” dipilih sebagai nadi utama lagu kerana sifatnya yang sangat manusiawi, melambangkan rayuan, pengharapan dan kebergantungan. Lagu ini bergerak di antara dua emosi yang sering wujud serentak dalam kehidupan, iaitu rasa bergantung dan rasa takut kehilangan. Ia bukan tentang kelemahan, tetapi keberanian untuk mengakui betapa pentingnya kehadiran seseorang dalam hidup kita. Inspirasi lagu ini juga diperkukuhkan dengan pengalaman sebenar berkaitan trauma kehilangan, yang dizahirkan melalui lirik sebagai satu luahan yang jujur dan tulus.

    Walaupun “Tolong” boleh ditafsirkan dalam pelbagai konteks hubungan, bagi Irfan sendiri, emosi lagu ini banyak terikat dengan kasih sayang terhadap keluarga, khususnya ibu dan bapanya. Perspektif ini membantu beliau menyampaikan lagu dengan lebih mendalam, menjadikan setiap baris lirik sebagai simbol cinta yang tidak bersyarat dan kekuatan utama dalam kehidupannya. Baris lirik “Jangan lepaskan walau cuma sedetik” menjadi cerminan perasaan tersebut, ringkas tetapi penuh makna.

    Sebagai langkah berani dalam kerjaya seninya, Irfan mengakui wujud tekanan untuk menentukan arah single terbaharu selepas kejayaan terdahulu. Namun, beliau memilih untuk tidak mengulang formula sama dan sebaliknya mempercayai naluri seni sendiri. “Tolong” hadir sebagai bukti kesediaannya untuk terus berkembang dan bereksperimen, sambil membawa mesej agar menghargai insan tersayang selagi mereka masih ada. Single ini kini boleh distrim di semua platform digital utama seperti Apple Music, Spotify dan YouTube, sekali gus menandakan permulaan tahun 2026 yang bermakna dalam perjalanan seni Irfan Haris.