MalaysianUpdates

Author: Farihin Azlan

  • KUTIPAN HAMPIR RM300,000! YASSIN YAHYA BERTERIMA KASIH ATAS SAMBUTAN HANGAT PADA TAYANGAN PERTAMA DUYUNG LEGENDA AURORA

    KUTIPAN HAMPIR RM300,000! YASSIN YAHYA BERTERIMA KASIH ATAS SAMBUTAN HANGAT PADA TAYANGAN PERTAMA DUYUNG LEGENDA AURORA

    Pelakon dan pelawak terkenal, Yassin Yahya, meluahkan rasa syukur dan terharu selepas filem terbaharunya, Duyung Legenda Aurora, menerima sambutan luar biasa pada hari pertama tayangan, mencatat kutipan hampir RM300,000 di pawagam seluruh Malaysia. Dalam hantaran di Instagram, Yassin menyifatkan pencapaian ini sebagai sesuatu yang tidak dijangka dan menjadi suntikan semangat besar buat dirinya, terutamanya kerana beliau kembali membawa watak ikonik Orix yang sinonim dengan namanya. “Alhamdulillah, hari pertama Duyung 2 mencecah RM300,000. Terima kasih kepada semua penyokong, khususnya peminat Orix yang sudi datang menonton,” tulisnya.

    Yassin turut mengakui dirinya benar-benar tersentuh dengan sokongan berterusan daripada peminat, termasuk mesej dan maklum balas yang meluahkan rasa rindu terhadap watak Orix. Sokongan ini, menurutnya, amat bermakna pada fasa kerjaya ketika ini, lebih-lebih lagi di usia dan pengalaman yang telah dimiliki. “Terus terang, saya benar-benar terharu. Di usia sebegini, tak pernah terlintas masih ada yang mahu menonton dan setia menyokong,” tambahnya. Kembalinya beliau sebagai Orix nyata mencetuskan keterujaan penonton, terutamanya kerana filem ini membawakan sisi baharu dan pendekatan skrip yang segar, sambil mengekalkan humor serta kehangatan watak yang telah digemari ramai.

    Sambutan positif ini dapat dilihat daripada lokasi-lokasi utama yang mencatat kutipan memberangsangkan seperti Sabah, Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, dan Kedah, dengan keseluruhan tayangan melibatkan 87 pawagam di seluruh negara. Filem ini dihasilkan oleh KRU Studios dan 8 Bit Studio, dengan Primeworks Studios sebagai rakan pemasaran rasmi, dan diarahkan oleh Dato’ Prof. Ts. Dr. A. Razak Mohaideen. Barisan pelakon yang membintangi filem ini termasuk Maya Karin, Saiful Apek, Yasmin Hani, Anna Jobling, Ayie Floor88 serta Datuk Yusry Abdul Halim.

    Duyung Legenda Aurora merupakan sebuah naskhah komedi yang menyatukan elemen kekeluargaan, persahabatan dan nilai kebersamaan, dengan jalan cerita yang mudah difahami serta dialog santai yang menjadikannya tontonan ringan sesuai untuk semua peringkat usia. Yassin juga berseloroh mengenai kemungkinan filem spin-off berfokus kepada watak Orix, menyuruh peminat memberi maklum balas melalui komen sekiranya berminat.

    Sebagai pilihan hiburan hujung tahun, Duyung Legenda Aurora kini sedang ditayangkan di pawagam seluruh negara. Penonton disarankan mendapatkan tiket segera bagi menikmati pengalaman filem yang menggabungkan humor, emosi, dan nilai kekeluargaan. Gunakan tanda pagar #DuyungLegendaAurora dan #FilemHiburanHujungTahun untuk menyertai perbualan di media sosial. Untuk perkembangan terkini dan kandungan eksklusif, ikuti Duyung Legenda Aurora di Facebook, Instagram, X, dan YouTube Primeworks Studios.

  • Sarawak Government Formally Implements Legacy Impact Initiatives in Collaboration with BESA

    Sarawak Government Formally Implements Legacy Impact Initiatives in Collaboration with BESA

    The Sarawak government has taken a major step in strengthening the business events sector with the official adoption of the Borneo Legacy Declaration and the launch of the Business Events Sarawak Alliance (BESA) during the Sarawak Business Events Forum. This initiative positions business events as strategic tools for delivering long-term policy outcomes and sustainable development across the state. The Borneo Legacy Declaration, formed during the Legacy Event Advocacy Policy (LEAP) Summit in October 2025, unites 36 policymakers and industry leaders from countries including Malaysia, Australia, Korea, the Philippines, the UK, and the US to champion legacy-driven events that foster sustainable economic growth.

    BESA will serve as a collaborative platform connecting Sarawak’s government ministries with BESarawak to leverage business events for positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes aligned with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. Starting in 2026, ministries will host and participate in national and international business events, prioritizing homegrown events through structured qualification processes. The platform also offers capacity-building programmes to enhance legacy impact advocacy among government agencies.

    The Honorable Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah signs the Borneo Legacy Declaration.

    The Honorable Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, representing the Premier of Sarawak, highlighted the sector’s success, noting a 100% event bidding success rate and the growth of 72 homegrown events, including the Borneo International Water & Wastewater Exhibition & Conference and International Energy Week. Deputy State Secretary Datu Hii Chang Kee emphasized that the sector’s achievements result from strategic planning and a robust ecosystem, underscoring the importance of government-industry collaboration for future growth.

    Amelia Roziman, CEO of BESarawak, hailed the government’s adoption of a legacy impact strategy as a landmark move, reinforcing Sarawak’s focus on sustainable and inclusive development in line with the state’s 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030). This development plan prioritizes high-impact investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, digitalization, human capital, and rural development, alongside strengthening key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and services, ensuring long-term prosperity for the state.

  • Tahukah anda, di Malaysia terdapat kelas khas untuk menjadi duyung? Daripada kanak-kanak sehinggalah individu autistik, semua berpeluang belajar berenang sebagai duyung!

    Trailer dan teaser Duyung Legenda Aurora telah mencetuskan fenomena baru dalam dunia hiburan, menjadikan fantasi duyung yang sebelum ini sekadar imaginasi, kini menjadi topik hangat di media sosial. Ramai penonton teruja dan ingin sendiri merasai pengalaman menjadi duyung. Menariknya, pengalaman ini bukan sahaja terhad kepada layar perak; di Malaysia, wujud kelas khas untuk belajar berenang sebagai duyung lengkap dengan mermaid tail, terbuka kepada semua, termasuk kanak-kanak istimewa dan individu autistik.

    Kelas duyung ini bukan sekadar aktiviti visual, malah memberi manfaat fizikal dan psikologi. Peserta, termasuk mereka yang autistik, dapat bergerak bebas di dalam air, membina keyakinan diri, dan merasai persekitaran yang selamat dan menyokong. Tambahan pula, komuniti seperti Moddess Mermaid kini menjadikan kelas duyung mesra Muslimah, dengan pengurusan pakaian, tudung dan gaya yang selesa, membolehkan peserta berhijab menikmati pengalaman berenang seperti duyung tanpa halangan.

    Beberapa lokasi di Lembah Klang menawarkan kelas unik ini, antaranya D Swim Academy (DSA), Water Mates Swimming Academy, Swim Up Academy, Merveille League Enterprise (MLE), Freediving Adventure Malaysia, Onshore Mermaid dan Riana Mermaid Academy. Fenomena ini semakin menarik apabila filem Duyung Legenda Aurora dijadualkan tayangan bermula 25 Disember 2025, membolehkan peminat menggabungkan pengalaman menonton filem dengan aktiviti praktikal menjadi duyung.

    Penggemar boleh mengikuti perkembangan dan kandungan eksklusif di media sosial menggunakan tanda pagar #DuyungLegendaAurora dan #FilemHiburanHujungTahun, serta merasai sendiri pengalaman dunia duyung yang kini menjadi realiti.

  • Timor-Leste and Zchwantech Forge Historic Partnership to Build a Sovereign AI-Driven Digital Nation

    Timor-Leste and Zchwantech Forge Historic Partnership to Build a Sovereign AI-Driven Digital Nation

    The Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and Malaysian technology architect Zchwantech Sdn. Bhd. have announced plans to establish a strategic partnership aimed at co-developing a sovereign, AI-powered national digital ecosystem. The announcement follows a successful high-level delegation visit to Kuala Lumpur and represents a major milestone in Timor-Leste’s long-term digital transformation agenda under the Timor Digital 2032 vision.

    The proposed collaboration focuses on building secure, future-ready national digital systems anchored in sovereignty, resilience and sustainable nation-building. Zchwantech, known for its end-to-end technology capabilities, is expected to play a key role in delivering sovereign digital infrastructure, cybersecurity frameworks, AI-driven platforms and governance models tailored to national needs.

    According to Zchwantech Chairman Datuk Seow Gim Shen, the partnership is designed to go beyond technology deployment. It aims to support Timor-Leste in developing trusted national systems that safeguard data sovereignty while enabling long-term operational resilience. This approach positions digital infrastructure as a strategic national asset rather than a standalone technology project.

    Zchwantech Executive Director Mr. Alex Chan emphasized that technology transfer and local capability development are central to the collaboration. By working closely with Timor-Leste’s institutions, the initiative seeks to ensure that local teams are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to operate, manage and progressively enhance national digital platforms. This model supports long-term sustainability and allows solutions to evolve in line with national priorities.

    As an initial step, both parties will conduct a feasibility study for a National Sovereign AI Cloud and Data Centre to be located within Timor-Leste and designed to Tier 3+ standards. This in-country infrastructure is intended to serve as the backbone for national digital services, strengthening cybersecurity, data sovereignty and continuity of operations.

    Building on this foundation, the partnership will explore the development of an AI-enhanced National Digital Identity system that integrates advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence. Envisioned as a unified digital key, the Digital ID platform aims to provide secure access to public services, social benefits and financial systems, enhancing inclusion, transparency and governance.

    The collaboration will also assess secure and smart border management solutions, including automated e-Gates, advanced biometric verification and predictive analytics. These initiatives are expected to improve national security, streamline traveler processing and enhance the overall tourism experience.

    Looking ahead, future phases of cooperation may extend to public service innovation initiatives such as smart healthcare, AI-optimized agricultural logistics, predictive maintenance for public infrastructure and personalized digital education platforms. In parallel, both parties will study the establishment of a Digital Trade Facilitation Corridor, including a National Single Window and AI-driven logistics systems, to improve customs efficiency, reduce trade costs and strengthen cross-border connectivity.

    Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Benigno Humberto Gregorio Da Cruz, Chief of Staff for the Minister of State Administration, said the partnership reflects Timor-Leste’s commitment to empowering its people through technology. He noted that the collaboration with Zchwantech represents a strategic move to build sovereign digital capabilities that will support equitable access to services and accelerate national development in line with the Timor Digital 2032 vision.

  • Infrastructure at a Turning Point: Five Key Predictions Defining AI, Resilience, and Digital Sovereignty in 2026

    Infrastructure at a Turning Point: Five Key Predictions Defining AI, Resilience, and Digital Sovereignty in 2026

    As organizations look toward 2026, infrastructure is emerging as a decisive factor in business competitiveness, no longer viewed merely as a cost center but as a strategic enabler. Power availability, operational resilience, data sovereignty and sustainability are now shaping success not only in mature economies, but also in high-growth markets such as Malaysia. Following a major shift in 2025, data centers—particularly colocation facilities—are increasingly recognized as essential partners that underpin the continuous flow of data and power keeping digital economies running.

    One of the most pressing trends is the challenge of unlocking AI’s full potential, especially within financial services. While AI promises transformative capabilities, its progress is often constrained by physical infrastructure limitations, particularly power density. As banks and financial institutions accelerate AI adoption, including GPU-driven workloads, they are encountering ceilings in power and computing capacity. In 2026, meaningful AI outcomes will depend on high-performance environments capable of supporting intensive data processing, making infrastructure upgrades an immediate necessity rather than a future ambition.

    In a digital-first world, resilience has become the baseline expectation. Always-on access is no longer optional, and downtime is increasingly unacceptable to both regulators and customers. Colocation data centers play a critical role by providing redundancy, proximity and scalability for sectors such as e-commerce, gaming and financial services. In Malaysia, regulatory frameworks including Bank Negara Malaysia’s operational resilience guidelines and broader cybersecurity policies have formalized the need for robust, reliable infrastructure, reinforcing resilience as a fundamental business requirement.

    Data sovereignty is also reshaping infrastructure strategies, particularly in sectors such as life sciences and healthcare. While global collaboration and data-driven insights are essential for innovation, sensitive data must often remain within national borders. Hybrid models that enable local data processing while supporting global connectivity are becoming the winning strategy. By interconnecting compute environments without moving data across borders, organizations can preserve compliance while accelerating research, drug discovery and innovation timelines.

    Another defining shift is the move toward agentic AI, where intelligence goes beyond generating content to taking real-time action. This requires AI inference to be deployed closer to users and systems, rather than relying solely on centralized training clusters. In Malaysia, such capabilities are being piloted across smart cities, disaster prediction, traffic management and fraud detection—areas where real-time responsiveness is critical to public safety and service efficiency. As AI becomes embedded across the network edge, infrastructure providers must bridge the gap between central capacity and distributed intelligence.

    Finally, sustainability is set to define Malaysia’s leadership in the years ahead. Driven by national initiatives such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap and growing ESG expectations, sustainability has become a strategic imperative for data centers and digital-led businesses. Energy-efficient design, renewable energy adoption and climate-resilient infrastructure are no longer optional. As Malaysia enters 2026, organizations that deploy infrastructure strategies that are resilient, sustainable and globally connected will be best positioned to navigate regulatory demands, meet ESG goals and thrive in an increasingly digital and climate-conscious economy.

  • Que Haidar Kembali Berlakon dalam Drama Siri Selepas 16 Tahun, Bukan Jamilah Tetapi Pak Su Ammara

    Que Haidar Kembali Berlakon dalam Drama Siri Selepas 16 Tahun, Bukan Jamilah Tetapi Pak Su Ammara

    Selepas 16 tahun tidak terlibat dalam drama bersiri, aktor berkaliber Que Haidar akhirnya kembali mewarnai kaca televisyen menerusi naskhah terbaharu berjudul Pak Su Ammara terbitan Global Station Sdn Bhd, yang bakal ditayangkan di saluran Astro Ria bermula 5 Januari 2026. Walaupun namanya tidak sering kelihatan sebaris dengan pelakon drama arus perdana masa kini, Que Haidar atau nama sebenarnya Tengku Iskhan Shah Tengku Haidar merupakan figura berpengalaman dalam industri hiburan tanah air sejak awal 2000-an, dengan pencapaian membanggakan termasuk memenangi Pelakon Harapan Lelaki Terbaik di Festival Filem Malaysia ke-19 menerusi filem Castello.

    Menurut Que, keputusannya untuk kembali berlakon dalam drama bersiri bukan sesuatu yang mudah selepas lebih sedekad menolak tawaran serupa. Faktor kekangan masa dan jadual penggambaran padat sebelum ini membuatkan beliau merasakan sukar untuk menyerap sepenuhnya energi dan emosi watak. Namun, naskhah Pak Su Ammara berjaya mencuri perhatiannya, terutamanya dengan bimbingan pengarah Azri Izhar serta sokongan pasukan produksi yang memberi suasana kerja positif dan kondusif, sekali gus menghidupkan kembali minatnya terhadap karya berepisod.

    Dalam drama ini, Que memegang watak Firdaus atau Pak Su, bapa saudara kepada Ammara Rose, dan turut bergandingan dengan aktres Ummi Nazeera. Que mengakui peluang bekerjasama dengan Ummi menjadi antara faktor utama beliau menerima tawaran ini, selain sokongan barisan pelakon berpengalaman seperti Dian P Ramlee serta lakonan mantap pelakon kanak-kanak yang membawa watak Ammara. Walaupun mengakui berasa gugup kembali ke set penggambaran drama bersiri selepas sekian lama, Que memilih untuk kekal profesional dan memberikan komitmen penuh demi menjayakan watak yang diamanahkan.

    Pak Su Ammara mengangkat kisah menyentuh emosi tentang Hamiza, seorang guru prasekolah yang berdepan dengan perkahwinan toksik dan akhirnya menjadi ibu tunggal. Dalam perjalanan hidupnya, Hamiza berkenalan dengan Firdaus atau Pak Su, yang sedikit demi sedikit menjadi sumber sokongan dalam hidupnya. Drama 20 episod ini turut dibintangi Syazwan Zulkifly dan Dian P Ramlee, serta dijangka menyentuh hati penonton dengan jalan cerita yang realistik, penuh nilai kemanusiaan dan kekuatan emosi.

  • Lotus’s Melaka Cheng Kembali Dibuka dengan Pelbagai Pilihan Makanan Baharu, Jenama Tempatan dan Kemudahan Mesra Keluarga

    Lotus’s Melaka Cheng Kembali Dibuka dengan Pelbagai Pilihan Makanan Baharu, Jenama Tempatan dan Kemudahan Mesra Keluarga

    Lotuss Stores (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (Lotus’s Malaysia) secara rasmi melancarkan semula Lotus’s Melaka Cheng selepas melalui proses pengembangan yang menyeluruh, bertujuan menjadikan pusat beli-belah ini lebih mudah diakses, selesa dan mesra kepada komuniti setempat. Terletak di kawasan Melaka Tengah utara yang pesat membangun, Lotus’s Melaka Cheng terus memperkukuh peranannya sebagai hab kejiranan dengan menawarkan lebih banyak pilihan makanan dan minuman, sokongan berterusan kepada jenama tempatan serta ruang yang sesuai untuk seisi keluarga memenuhi keperluan harian mereka.

    Sebagai sebahagian daripada penambahbaikan berfokuskan kejiranan, pengembangan ini menambah keluasan sebanyak 4,311 meter persegi, menjadikan jumlah keseluruhan ruang pusat beli-belah kepada 7,616 meter persegi. Ia turut memperkenalkan 11 lot baharu yang menempatkan 12 penyewa baharu, sekali gus meningkatkan jumlah keseluruhan lot runcit kepada 57. Hampir 30 peratus daripada ruang runcit kini dikhaskan kepada tawaran makanan dan minuman, mengukuhkan lagi kedudukan Lotus’s Melaka Cheng sebagai destinasi mesra keluarga untuk membeli-belah, menjamu selera dan meluangkan masa bersama setiap hari.

    Wakil media dan para pelanggan dilihat mengunjungi kawasan pengembangan baharu bersama penyewa yang diperkenalkan, sambil menikmati suasana baharu yang ditawarkan oleh Lotus’s Melaka Cheng.

    Lotus’s Melaka Cheng yang diperbaharui ini menampilkan gabungan penyewa makanan, gaya hidup dan elektronik yang dipilih secara teliti bagi memenuhi keperluan komuniti setempat. Antara penambahan baharu dalam kategori makanan dan minuman termasuk Harum Kopi, My Mom’s Chicken Rice, Big Apple Donuts, Mee Hiris Express, Bonda Laksa dan Mixue, manakala kategori gaya hidup dan elektronik pula disertai oleh Sin Siang Stationery, Umairose Boutique, Xiaomi, Oppo, LG Electronics dan G Accessories. Kehadiran Harum Kopi sebagai jenama tempatan yang membuat penampilan sulung di Lotus’s Melaka Cheng mencerminkan komitmen Lotus’s Malaysia dalam menyokong pertumbuhan perniagaan tempatan lebih dekat dengan komuniti.

    Bagi meraikan pelancaran semula ini, Lotus’s Melaka Cheng turut menganjurkan pelbagai aktiviti dan promosi menarik sehingga 21 Disember 2025, termasuk karnival hujung tahun pusat beli-belah, promosi eksklusif penyewa, tawaran istimewa di medan selera serta diskaun dalam cawangan Lotus’s. Ahli My Lotus’s juga menikmati ganjaran tambahan melalui mata ganjaran berganda dan baucar tunai. Melangkah ke hadapan, Lotus’s Malaysia komited untuk terus mempertingkatkan pusat beli-belah berfokuskan kejiranan secara berperingkat, sejajar dengan keperluan setempat dan peranannya sebagai ruang komuniti harian untuk membeli-belah, menjamu selera dan mengeratkan hubungan kekeluargaan.

    Antara penyewa baharu yang menyertai Lotus’s Melaka Cheng susulan pengembangan ini termasuk Sin Siang Stationery, Mee Hiris Express, Xiaomi dan banyak lagi.

  • The Quiet Threat to Bone Health: Why Malaysians Need to Take Osteoporosis Seriously

    The Quiet Threat to Bone Health: Why Malaysians Need to Take Osteoporosis Seriously

    Osteoporosis, often called the “silent disease,” quietly weakens bones over time, showing no symptoms until a fracture occurs from what seems like a minor fall or simple movement. Dr Edward Chong Kah Chun, Consultant Geriatrician at Sunway Medical Centre, explains that most people are only diagnosed after a fragility fracture—breaks caused by minimal trauma—which means significant bone loss has already taken place. Common fractures occur in the hip, spine, and wrist, each carrying serious consequences. Hip fractures can lead to prolonged immobility and even life-threatening complications, while spinal fractures cause chronic pain and nerve irritation, and wrist fractures can significantly hinder daily activities. Beyond the physical impact, osteoporosis can also affect mental well-being, with many patients developing a “fear of falling,” reducing mobility, and leading to muscle weakness and social isolation.

    In Malaysia, osteoporosis is on the rise due to diet and lifestyle factors. Many Malaysians consume insufficient calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, tofu, and green vegetables, while vitamin D deficiency is common because of limited sun exposure. Women are particularly at risk post-menopause due to declining oestrogen levels, but men with poor diets, smoking habits, or long-term medication use are also susceptible. Early detection is crucial. According to Malaysia’s Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Osteoporosis 2022, screening is recommended for women over 50, men over 70, and anyone who has experienced a low-trauma fracture. The DEXA scan—a simple, non-invasive test measuring bone mineral density—is the standard diagnostic tool.

    ‘Fear of falling’ often leads individuals to limit their movement, which in turn weakens their bones and muscles further.

    Prevention and treatment combine lifestyle adjustments with medical interventions. Adequate nutrition, including around 1,000 mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily, along with weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, resistance training, or Tai Chi, can help strengthen bones and improve balance. For severe cases, oral medications or injectable therapies are used alongside proper follow-up care. Families play a vital role in ensuring patient safety, from removing trip hazards and improving lighting at home to encouraging regular physical activity and supporting nutritious diets.

    Dr Edward emphasizes that osteoporosis prevention should start early with good nutrition, sunlight exposure, and regular movement. Community initiatives such as walking clubs, exercise sessions, and nutrition workshops can further promote strong bones and long-term mobility. “Strong bones are the foundation for independence and quality of life. Don’t wait for a fall to remind you how precious they are,” he advises.

    Strong bones start young. Good nutrition and regular physical activity help prevent osteoporosis.
  • HONOR Tackles Rising Silent Call Threats in Malaysia with Enhanced AI-Powered Voice Scam Detection

    HONOR Tackles Rising Silent Call Threats in Malaysia with Enhanced AI-Powered Voice Scam Detection

    A rising scam call tactic known as the “silent call” is increasingly worrying Malaysians, as fraudsters leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to clone victims’ voices and impersonate people they know to demand money transfers. Authorities have urged the public to stay vigilant, especially when receiving calls where the caller remains silent for several seconds. Social media is filled with stories of Malaysians encountering these calls, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures. In response, HONOR is enhancing the Magic8 Pro with a new AI Voice Cloning Detection feature, designed to identify AI-generated voices. This feature will be available via a software update in late December 2025.

    The AI Voice Cloning Detection complements HONOR Magic8 Pro’s existing AI Deepfake Detection, analyzing calls for cloned or synthesized voices and notifying users when anomalies are detected. The necessity for such protection is evident: recent reports include a woman who lost RM5,000 after a voice clone of her employer deceived her, and a travel agent who fell victim to a call mimicking a friend, losing RM49,800. With this feature, users can answer unknown numbers with greater confidence and reduced anxiety.

    In addition, the Magic8 Pro will include AI Scam Number Detection, which cross-checks incoming calls against known scam databases and alerts users if a number is flagged as suspicious. This provides an extra layer of security, helping users avoid potential scams even before answering a call.

    Beyond calls, HONOR has upgraded its AI Deepfake Detection for video calls, now capable of screening up to eight people simultaneously to detect digitally altered faces. With deepfake-related fraud cases investigated by police numbering 454 last year, causing losses of RM2.72 million, these advanced features position the Magic8 Pro as a strong deterrent against AI-driven fraud nationwide.

    HONOR’s dedication to integrating privacy and security into its devices has earned global recognition. Its built-in deepfake detection technology received the TIME Best Inventions 2025 Award for Privacy and Security, underscoring the brand’s commitment to responsible AI innovation and ensuring users remain protected as digital threats evolve.

    For more information, visit HONOR’s official website at www.honor.com/my.

  • Marriott Hotels Expands Its Signature Hospitality to Petaling Jaya with the Opening of Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel

    Marriott Hotels Expands Its Signature Hospitality to Petaling Jaya with the Opening of Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel

    Marriott Hotels®, the flagship brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, has officially opened the Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel, ushering in a new era of elevated hospitality in one of Greater Kuala Lumpur’s most established commercial districts. Designed as an urban sanctuary, the hotel blends contemporary aesthetics, thoughtful amenities and Marriott Hotels’ signature Wonderful Hospitality to cater to families, business travelers and city explorers seeking comfort, connectivity and refined experiences.

    Strategically located along the SPRINT Highway and adjacent to the prestigious Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC), the hotel offers seamless access to Kuala Lumpur’s key business and leisure hubs. Its proximity to Phileo Damansara MRT Station and a short 15-minute drive to KL Sentral provide excellent connectivity, including direct rail links to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). With easy access to the North-South Expressway, guests can also travel conveniently to major destinations such as Johor, Melaka, Perak and Penang.

    The Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel features 393 guest rooms, including 89 suites, designed with understated luxury and timeless elegance. Soft lighting, modern furnishings and premium amenities create a calm and sophisticated atmosphere, while thoughtfully designed family rooms with bunk beds and shared communal spaces cater to guests travelling with children. Spacious suites offer family-friendly layouts, separate living areas and indulgent bathtubs, setting a new benchmark for comfort and convenience in the city.

    Dining and leisure experiences are carefully curated to suit every occasion. Guests can enjoy international favorites and local classics at the all-day dining restaurant, unwind at the Lobby Lounge within the brand’s signature Greatroom concept, or savor authentic Cantonese cuisine at the hotel’s Chinese restaurant. Elite and Club members can retreat to the exclusive M Club Lounge, offering personalized services, curated culinary selections and inspiring spaces for work or relaxation. Leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, Kids Club and a state-of-the-art fitness center, while business travelers and event planners are supported by 11 versatile meeting rooms equipped with advanced technology and professional planning services.

    As part of the Marriott Bonvoy travel programme, guests staying at the Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel can earn and redeem points while enjoying personalized and contactless experiences through the Marriott Bonvoy app. With its prime location, elevated spaces and warm hospitality, the Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel reflects Marriott Hotels’ commitment to delivering modern urban stays that celebrate comfort, connection and the spirit of contemporary Malaysia.

    To learn more about Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel, please visit www.petalingjayamarriott.com