Evo Mall Bangi mempersembahkan ‘Festival Warisan Selera Timur’, sebuah festival selama tiga hari yang akan berlangsung dari 5 hingga 7 Disember di Bandar Baru Bangi. Acara ini berfungsi sebagai platform untuk memperkenalkan warisan Pantai Timur merangkumi Kelantan, Terengganu dan Pahang kepada masyarakat Lembah Klang. Pengunjung bakal menikmati lebih 100 hidangan ikonik serta pelbagai aktiviti kebudayaan sepanjang festival.
Mengangkat tagline ‘Rasa Ori Tiga Negeri’, festival ini memberi peluang kepada vendor Industri Kecil dan Sederhana dari Pantai Timur untuk memperluas jaringan mereka sambil memperkenalkan juadah autentik kepada pengunjung. Antara menu istimewa yang diketengahkan ialah Satar dan Otak-Otak Warung Azis Satar Kemaman, Keropok Celup Tepung Terengganu dan Ketupat Sotong Dapur Aryani. Turut ditawarkan Nasi Kerabu, Laksa, Laksam, Keropok Gemok Pasar Payang, Temosa Raja Ikan & Telur, Puding Raja, Sambal Hitam Marvel dan pelbagai kuih tradisi. Festival ini turut mendapat sokongan Tourism Malaysia sebagai sebahagian usaha mempromosikan “Visit Malaysia 2026”.
Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Evo Mall Bangi, Zetty Rahim, menyatakan bahawa festival ini bertujuan memperkenalkan budaya, warisan dan kesenian Pantai Timur kepada komuniti luar negeri-negeri tersebut. Dengan kerjasama rakan penaja seperti Noor Arfa Batik, Cap Bunga Ros, Billo Malaysia dan Azue Bridal, penganjuran kali ini mensasarkan kehadiran sehingga 30,000 pengunjung.
Selain hidangan makanan, pengunjung berpeluang menikmati persembahan budaya Pantai Timur. Malam Jumaat menampilkan persembahan Dikir Barat oleh selebriti Issey bersama kumpulan Dikir Exclusive. Malam Sabtu pula diadakan Malam Irama Pantai Timur bersama penyanyi Ameng Spring, Rosma Sidik dan Syafiq Farhain. Turut dipersembahkan Ulek Mayang dari Terengganu dan Joget Pahang. Pada hari Ahad, ‘The Helmis’ akan berkongsi pengalaman mereka berlayar dalam Misi Kemanusiaan Sumud Flotilla.
Pengunjung juga boleh menyertai pelbagai aktiviti interaktif seperti Pertandingan Mewarna, Bengkel Mencanting Batik, Bengkel Silat Gayong, demonstrasi masakan tradisional, Cabaran Batu Seremban dan pertandingan menghias pulut kuning. Festival ini dibuka dari jam 10 pagi hingga 10 malam, menjadikannya destinasi hujung minggu sesuai untuk seluruh keluarga.
Orang ramai, khususnya penduduk Lembah Klang, dijemput hadir menikmati pengalaman budaya dan citarasa Pantai Timur apabila ‘Festival Warisan Selera Timur’ berlangsung di Evo Mall Bangi pada 5 hingga 7 Disember 2025. A.M.A. Infinity Solution bertanggungjawab sebagai pengurus acara bagi memastikan festival ini mencapai kejayaan yang diharapkan.
Many people associate the word “metabolism” with burning calories or losing weight. While weight loss can be one outcome, a healthy metabolism influences far more than physical appearance. It shapes how the body functions, how we feel each day and how well we age. Dr. Luigi Gratton, Vice President of the Office of Health and Wellness and Chair of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board, noted that long-term well-being begins with small daily shifts that support metabolic balance.
Modern lifestyles often place pressure on metabolism. High stress levels elevate cortisol and encourage fat storage. Diets high in processed foods—often loaded with added sugars and low in fibre—can disrupt appetite regulation, gut health and insulin response. Long hours of sitting at work or in traffic reduce muscle activity, slowing down metabolic rate and contributing to energy imbalance.
With Christmas and the festive season approaching, maintaining well-being becomes even more crucial. Global research shows that people typically gain between 0.37 kg to 1.89 kg during holiday periods, and Malaysians are likely to experience similar patterns during local celebrations. Fortunately, intentional changes in everyday habits can make a meaningful difference. Choosing nutrient-dense foods, staying active and prioritising quality sleep can help restore metabolic flexibility and support lasting wellness.
Balancing the plate plays a vital role in metabolic health. Nutrition affects blood sugar control, fat metabolism, gut function, hormone balance and inflammation. Lean protein helps build and maintain muscle mass, which supports a higher resting metabolic rate. Fibre-rich and nutrient-dense foods promote satiety and stable blood sugar levels. Certain botanicals, such as polyphenols found in citrus fruits and capsicum in chilli peppers, may also support metabolic processes. Dr. Gratton emphasised that eating well is not about restriction, but about consistently selecting foods that nourish the body’s metabolic systems. Choosing cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, stewing, baking or stir-frying with minimal oil can also reduce excess calorie intake. Even simple habits like spreading food on the plate at buffets can help prevent overeating.
Movement acts as a powerful catalyst for metabolic health. Physical activity improves blood sugar regulation, enhances insulin sensitivity and helps maintain muscle mass. Both structured exercise and daily activities like brisk walking contribute significant metabolic benefits. Adults are encouraged to accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week. For added benefits, aiming for 60 minutes of moderate-intensity or 30 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per day is recommended. The more we move now, the better we protect mobility and metabolic function as we age.
Rest and recovery are often overlooked but are essential for supporting metabolic processes. During sleep, the body resets metabolic drivers that influence weight, energy and appetite regulation. Quality sleep enhances insulin sensitivity and helps regulate hunger hormones such as leptin and ghrelin. It also reduces cortisol, a stress hormone that can disrupt metabolism. Limiting screen time before bed, keeping a consistent sleep schedule, targeting seven to nine hours of rest and creating a calming nightly routine can help improve sleep quality.
Ultimately, metabolic health is at the core of long-term wellness. It is strengthened through small, consistent habits that support the body’s natural functions. Balanced nutrition, regular movement and restorative sleep work together to improve energy levels, digestion, mood and overall vitality. These habits become especially valuable during festive seasons, when indulgences and irregular routines can challenge the body’s balance. Science shows that even modest daily efforts can make a significant difference, helping you feel better today while protecting your health for the future.
For those who want to explore metabolic health further, Herbalife’s “The Breakdown Mini-Series” on YouTube offers additional insights into how healthy lifestyle choices support long-term well-being.
Diabetes is rising rapidly across the Asia-Pacific region, and APAC is projected to become the largest contributor to the global economic burden of diabetes by 2030. In Malaysia, the 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) reported that 15.6% of adults aged 18 and above are living with diabetes. What is more concerning is that two in five cases remain undiagnosed, while the prevalence of known diabetes has increased to 9.7%.
The NHMS 2023 also revealed that 54.4% of Malaysian adults are overweight or obese, a worrying trend as obesity is one of the major but preventable risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Excessive weight gain significantly increases the risk of insulin resistance, a condition where the body no longer responds effectively to insulin, leading to rising blood sugar levels and eventually diabetes.
Dr. Alex Teo, Director of Research Development and Scientific Affairs for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, explained that this risk is worsened by the fast-paced, stressful, and sedentary lifestyles that are becoming more common in urbanising societies. Long working hours and easy access to fast food often lead to unhealthy snacking and “stress-eating,” where sweet treats and comfort foods become quick solutions to cope with daily stress.
He also highlighted the growing concern of childhood obesity, noting that one in three Malaysian children aged five to seventeen is now overweight or obese. Early childhood obesity increases the risk of lifelong health challenges, including type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases.
It is also important to understand that some individuals may appear slim but still carry excessive internal body fat, a condition known as TOFI (thin outside, fat inside). This is particularly common among Asians and those who consume low-protein diets and lead sedentary lifestyles. Type 2 diabetes often develops silently in its early stages, meaning individuals may have dangerously high blood sugar levels without experiencing any symptoms.
Addressing “diabesity”—the combination of diabetes and obesity—begins by tackling root causes such as poor diet and inactivity. Small daily changes leading to modest weight loss can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Nutrition plays a critical role in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes. High-glycaemic foods such as white bread and sugary snacks cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, which over time can contribute to insulin resistance. Reducing sugary drinks like bubble tea helps lower excess sugar intake. Tapioca pearls, for example, add extra calories and raise the glycaemic index of the drink, contributing to weight gain and poor diabetes control.
In contrast, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—especially those rich in fibre—help stabilise blood sugar by slowing sugar absorption, increasing fullness, and supporting digestion. By focusing on nutritious, minimally processed foods, individuals can better manage blood sugar levels and support overall metabolic health.
Targeted supplementation may also help. Protein increases satiety, supports metabolism, and burns more calories during digestion. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as salmon help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. Magnesium supports glucose metabolism, insulin function, blood pressure regulation, and muscle health—making it easier to stay active and manage weight.
Lifestyle choices play an equally important role. Regular physical activity—at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week—helps regulate weight gain and improve insulin sensitivity. For those who struggle to find time, simple activities such as short walks before and after meals or quick desk stretches can still stabilise blood sugar and improve well-being.
Poor sleep and chronic stress disrupt metabolic functions and increase the risk of diabetes. Prioritising rest and practicing stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing and meditation are essential in regulating stress hormones and supporting healthier metabolic outcomes.
Managing one’s health may feel daunting in the midst of a busy modern routine. However, small, consistent adjustments paired with preventive care and early detection can lead to significantly better long-term outcomes in diabetes prevention and overall health.
For more than 122 years, Ford has remained committed to supporting communities through both challenges and progress, driven by the belief that a stronger future is one that is built together. This principle forms the foundation of Ford’s global corporate social responsibility initiative, ‘Ford Building Together’. In Malaysia, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford (Auto ConneXion-Ford) continued this legacy by reaching 600 beneficiaries from underserved communities across the Klang Valley, Penang, Ipoh and Kuantan through an 11-day campaign that delivered essential food aid and basic healthcare services. The initiative was powered by 55 Ford volunteers.
Auto ConneXion, the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, identified a diverse group of vulnerable recipients, including B40 families, persons with disabilities (OKU), single mothers, Asnaf Fakir and Miskin, as well as Orang Asli communities who would benefit most from the support provided.
The campaign reached communities across four regions, including beneficiaries in the Klang Valley comprising B40, Asnaf and OKU households at Pangsapuri Putra Ria and Abdullah Hukum; B40 and Asnaf groups in George Town and Jalan Patani, Penang; single mothers, B40 families and Asnaf communities in Sungai Rokam, Ipoh; and the Orang Asli community in Kampung Paya Bungor, Gambang, Kuantan.
Jane Holloway, Senior Manager of Ford Philanthropy, International Markets Group, said Ford’s mission extends beyond producing high-quality vehicles. She emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering communities and creating positive, lasting impact. According to her, the Ford Building Together initiative reflects the belief that meaningful change is possible when partners, volunteers and communities work collectively.
A key component of the Malaysian campaign was the deployment of the Ford Mobile Clinic, introduced earlier in February. The mobile clinic is a collaborative effort by Auto ConneXion-Ford, Yayasan Sime Darby, Ford Philanthropy and MyFundAction. Through this initiative, healthcare professionals were mobilised to all four locations to deliver essential healthcare services, especially to rural areas.
Turse Zuhair Nahason Affan, Managing Director of Auto ConneXion-Ford, highlighted that the Malaysian programme aligns closely with the global mission. He stated that bringing the “full power of Ford” to Malaysia goes beyond financial aid. It involves combining employee passion with dealer network strength to meet community needs. He shared that through collaboration, the initiative not only provides critical aid but also fosters lasting relationships and contributes to building a sustainable future.
The success of the Malaysian initiative reflects Ford’s commitment to action, partnership and community empowerment. It was supported by dedicated volunteers from Auto ConneXion-Ford’s management and staff, authorised Ford dealers nationwide and non-profit partner MyFundAction, which played a key role in coordinating on-ground operations.
Turse Zuhair expressed appreciation for the team’s efforts, noting that their time, skills and dedication made the Ford Building Together programme meaningful for all involved. He reiterated the company’s commitment to continuing efforts that drive empowerment and sustainable impact across Malaysia.
The Malaysian activities formed part of Ford’s annual Global Caring Month, a worldwide volunteer initiative under Ford Philanthropy. This contribution supported what became the World’s Largest Auto Dealer Food Drive under the Ford Building Together banner, involving more than 1,600 Ford dealers across 31 countries and collecting over 2 million pounds (907,000 kg) of food — far exceeding the initial target of 500,000 kg.
This latest effort builds on Auto ConneXion-Ford’s longstanding community support in Malaysia through earlier initiatives such as the Clean Water Project in Gerik and Operation Better World in Kuala Lumpur.
MAGGI® is extending the learning journey of the MAGGI® Secondary School Cooking Competition (MSSCC) by introducing an interactive workshop that goes beyond competition day. Built on the belief that skills and positive habits develop through consistent practice, the workshop offers students a richer and more sustained learning experience.
Now in its 28th year, MSSCC continues to be a platform that nurtures young Malaysians into confident and informed everyday cooks. More than a cooking competition, it emphasises lifelong skills such as creativity, teamwork and understanding the basics of balanced meals. This new workshop reflects MAGGI®’s commitment to ensuring that students continue learning long after the finals have ended.
The workshop brought together the five winning teams from MSSCC 2025, joined by professional chefs and a Nestlé nutritionist for a full day of hands-on demonstrations and interactive sessions. Students gained practical knowledge on preparing balanced meals and strengthening kitchen fundamentals. Nutritionist Leong Ven Luan focused on simplifying healthy eating with practical guidance, while Chef Sharifah Hamidah demonstrated recipes that blend convenience, taste and balanced nutrition. Professional chef Naem Ramli guided students through essential kitchen skills, offering techniques to boost confidence and reinforce the lessons learned during MSSCC. Former MSSCC 2016 champion, Chef Ariff, also inspired participants by sharing how the competition shaped his journey from a student to a professional chef.
The workshop emphasised the importance of cultivating healthy cooking habits, especially as young Malaysians often struggle to maintain nutritious diets amid busy schedules. Chef Sharifah shared that balanced eating does not need to be complicated or costly, highlighting that the right fundamentals can help students make healthier choices every day. Extending MSSCC beyond the competition ensures that students continue practising balanced cooking in real-life settings.
Students responded positively to the experience. Muhammad Amsyar Haikal bin Abdullah from SMK Belara, Kuala Terengganu, expressed gratitude for the chance to learn directly from chefs and a nutritionist. He shared that the hands-on training opened his eyes to essential techniques such as proper knife handling, balanced meal preparation and understanding nutrition — lessons that will influence his daily habits moving forward.
Chef Naem, participating in his first MAGGI® workshop, said it was meaningful to guide young Malaysians through hands-on learning. He emphasised that teaching kitchen skills, safety and hygiene also builds confidence and nurtures the value of balanced eating. Developing these habits early helps shape a generation that prioritises mindful and healthier food choices.
With programmes like MSSCC and its extended workshops, MAGGI® continues its mission to develop a generation of knowledgeable and capable home cooks. The values of balanced eating, practical skills and positive cooking habits are carried from competition halls into homes and communities across Malaysia.
The journey to better health often comes with the pressure of making drastic changes, but that need not always be the case. Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, shared that through her years of experience as a nutritionist, she has realised that improved health—more energy, deeper sleep, and better focus—often begins with the simplest changes that are both practical and consistent. At the centre of it all is our gut.
Revisiting traditional foods can be a powerful step toward nurturing gut health, something Asian diets have naturally supported for centuries. Yet, amidst the pressures of modern life, rice bowls are often replaced with fast food, fibre-rich vegetables with processed snacks, and nourishing herbal broths with sugary sodas.
Studies show that this dietary shift has become increasingly common across Asia and has been accompanied by a rise in digestive concerns such as bloating, acid reflux, irritable bowel symptoms, and more serious digestive disorders. The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) reported that diseases of the digestive system ranked among the top ten causes of hospitalisation in 2023, accounting for 6.43 percent of total cases. They were also among the top ten causes of death in both MOH and private hospitals, at 4.49 percent and 3.43 percent respectively.
“I don’t mean to sound alarms but rather offer a gentle nudge—to pause and reflect on what our bodies truly need, and how our simple choices can make all the difference in achieving sustained wellness,” Dr. Sae-Lao said.
The digestive system plays a critical role in our overall wellbeing. Often referred to as the “second brain,” the gut communicates closely with the brain to manage digestive processes. It influences immunity, metabolism, energy levels, and even mental health. The gut is home to a variety of microorganisms that break down food we cannot digest, produce essential vitamins, and protect us from harmful germs. These microbes keep the gut lining strong and support immune development, particularly in the early stages of life.
Ironically, one of the biggest barriers to better gut health is the very food we eat. Many of today’s common meals are deficient in phytonutrients, dietary fibre, and key nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamin D. Modern eating habits, heavily influenced by the western world, often include processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. These can disrupt the natural balance of the gut microbiome, trigger inflammation, and lead to issues such as constipation, reflux, or bloating. Over time, they may increase the risk of long-term health complications.
The solution, however, can be simple. By understanding what our bodies truly need and nourishing them with mindful traditions, gut health can be restored. Making such changes is practical even in today’s hectic world. It is not about a dramatic overhaul but about small, intentional shifts that gradually become lasting habits. The goal is to take back control, one plate at a time.
Asian diets, rooted in both culture and science, provide a strong foundation for healthier living. Rich in vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods, these diets supply fibre, healthy fats, and essential nutrients that support digestion, heart health, and overall wellness. Choosing cooking methods like steaming, boiling, grilling, or stir-frying helps reduce oil use while preserving nutrients. Fermented foods such as kimchi, miso, yogurt, pickles, and kombucha provide probiotics that strengthen the immune system and fortify gut health. Herbs and spices like ginger, turmeric, garlic, and fennel not only add flavour but also carry natural digestive and medicinal benefits.
To further support gut health, dietary fibre plays a crucial role. Herbalife Mixed Fibres with Inulin Powder Drink offers a convenient option for increasing daily fibre intake, especially for those who struggle to consume enough fruits and vegetables. With both soluble and insoluble fibres, it helps maintain digestion and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Beyond ingredients, mindful eating practices have always been part of Asian traditions. Paying attention to portion sizes, chewing thoroughly, savouring each bite, and eating without distractions allows the body to activate digestive enzymes and improves nutrient absorption. These habits also strengthen gut-brain communication, regulating hunger and fullness cues.
Traditional diets emphasise balance, care, and connection. A good starting point is to understand how different foods interact with our unique bodies. Research shows that people respond differently to the same foods based on their gut bacteria, making a one-size-fits-all diet less effective. Personalised nutrition can help identify which foods enhance digestion, reduce inflammation, and support better overall health.
Combining traditional food wisdom with practical habits for modern living creates a sustainable path forward. Planning meals, preparing ingredients in advance, or batch cooking can make it easier to maintain healthy routines on busy days.
Simple daily habits also contribute to gut health and overall wellness. Staying hydrated, engaging in enjoyable physical activities like walking, stretching, or gym sessions, and ensuring quality sleep all support the body’s natural healing.
The first step is to start small. Swap one meal, slow down for one bite, and tune into what feels good for your body. As Dr. Sae-Lao encourages, “Your gut can lead the way—just listen closely.”
Growing unease continues to ripple through Bukit Damansara as residents call upon Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to urgently reassess development approvals that they believe are accelerating the erosion of the neighbourhood’s original character. At a community dialogue held yesterday, residents voiced discontent over what they described as unclear planning policies, traffic strain, and a lack of meaningful consultation.
Long-time resident and ASEAN India Business Council adviser, Datuk Bhupat Rai Premji, said the neighbourhood was never intended to accommodate the intensity of development now taking place. “Bukit Damansara was established as a low-density, dignified enclave for senior government officers. Its purpose is being distorted through unchecked projects that disregard the community’s needs,” he said.
Residents’ associations at the session echoed similar frustration. Bukit Damansara Residents Association chairman Datuk Ahmad Suffian Abdul Majid, alongside Setia Kasih Bukit Damansara Residents Association president Zuhairah Ali, emphasised the importance of restoring a balanced planning approach that aligns with the area’s infrastructure capacity.
Bhupat also highlighted long-standing concerns about worsening traffic, especially after large-scale developments such as Pavilion Damansara Heights. “Since Pavilion opened, Jalan Semantan and surrounding routes have become unbearable. One downpour, and we’re stuck for nearly an hour. This is not progress it’s planning failure,” he added.
Residents reiterated that development is not the issue; rather, it is the absence of responsible oversight. They emphasised that sustainable planning must include appropriate plot ratios, building heights, and infrastructure upgrades before additional projects are approved. “We want development that makes sense not growth that strangles its own community,” said Ahmad Suffian.
Another concern raised involved the discovery of a notice of application to sell alcohol at what residents believed was a residential property undergoing major renovations. Residents only became aware after spotting a liquor licence application notice from the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur Excise Licensing Board displayed on the house’s wall.
Neighbourhood representative Dr Barkeh Hanim Jumaat described the situation as deeply worrying. “We are shocked and strongly object. We do not want our peaceful residential area turning into a nightlife hotspot. Are we going to see a pub appear in our housing area? This thought alone is distressing,” she said.
The session concluded with residents urging DBKL to halt questionable approvals, improve transparency, and prioritise heritage preservation. Community leaders emphasised that Bukit Damansara’s identity must be safeguarded through fair, logical, and accountable urban planning that truly serves its residents.
Sejak diperkenalkan pada Mac/April 2025, inisiatif pembiayaan pendidikan oleh Yayasan Peneraju telah menjadi pemangkin penting dalam memperluas penyertaan Bumiputera dalam sektor teknologi bernilai tinggi. Menjelang penutupannya pada Disember 2025, program ini telah memberi peluang kepada Bumiputera berusia 16 tahun ke atas daripada pelbagai latar belakang untuk mengikuti latihan profesional dalam bidang Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Cybersecurity, Networking dan Cloud Computing, iaitu bidang teras yang menggerakkan transformasi ekonomi digital negara.
Walaupun inisiatif ini berada dalam fasa penutupan, permohonan bagi pengambilan terakhir masih dibuka. Nexperts Academy turut menyediakan elaun latihan kepada peserta yang layak di bawah program ini. Skim pembiayaan ini menawarkan mekanisme yang amat digalakkan peserta, termasuk 0% bayaran balik (Silver-tier) apabila syarat dipenuhi. Bagi kursus yang mempunyai peperiksaan, pembiayaan akan menjadi tanpa bayaran balik apabila peserta mencapai kehadiran yang ditetapkan dan lulus peperiksaan. Bagi kursus tanpa peperiksaan, pembiayaan bertukar kepada pembiayaan tanpa bayaran balik setelah peserta menamatkan keseluruhan kursus. Maklumat lengkap boleh dirujuk di laman rasmi Yayasan Peneraju.
Sebagai salah satu penyedia latihan dilantik (ALTI), Nexperts Academy Sdn. Bhd. yang beroperasi di Petaling Jaya merupakan antara institusi yang menawarkan kursus berfokus industri di bawah inisiatif ini, selain universiti dan penyedia latihan lain. Peserta bebas memilih kursus dan penyedia latihan sebelum memohon pembiayaan melalui Yayasan Peneraju.
Permintaan terhadap tenaga mahir dalam bidang Cloud Computing, Networking, AI, Keselamatan Siber dan analitik data semakin meningkat seiring perkembangan teknologi. Banyak syarikat melaporkan kewujudan kekosongan pekerjaan namun kekurangan bakat tempatan untuk mengisinya. Dalam masa sama, risiko serangan digital semakin meningkat, menjadikan sektor keselamatan siber berada pada tahap paling kritikal.
Nexperts Academy turut melatih peserta dalam Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), kursus keselamatan siber terkemuka dunia yang diiktiraf EC-Council. Kursus ini memberi pendedahan kepada teknik serangan sebenar, membolehkan peserta berfikir seperti penggodam bagi mengukuhkan pertahanan organisasi. Keperluan ini semakin ketara selepas beberapa syarikat tempatan menjadi mangsa serangan ransomware, termasuk sebuah syarikat yang kehilangan data operasi sepenuhnya sebelum penyerang menuntut bayaran tebusan dalam bentuk mata wang kripto. Situasi ini mengukuhkan keperluan melahirkan lebih ramai profesional keselamatan siber Bumiputera yang bersistem, berkompeten dan bersedia menghadapi ancaman moden.
Selain keselamatan siber, Network & Multicloud Bootcamp oleh Nexperts Academy merupakan antara kursus paling popular di bawah pembiayaan Yayasan Peneraju. Direka untuk peserta yang bermula dari sifar, bootcamp ini membolehkan mereka memperoleh tiga pensijilan antarabangsa: CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Cloud+ dan Microsoft Certified Azure Associate. Gabungan pensijilan ini membuka pelbagai laluan kerjaya termasuk IT Support, Network Engineer, Helpdesk Engineer serta potensi peningkatan ke peranan lebih tinggi seperti Cloud Engineer, Network Engineer Level 2 atau System Administrator. Laluan pensijilan ini turut menjadi alternatif untuk individu tanpa diploma atau ijazah IT, menjadikannya pilihan utama peserta baharu dan mereka yang ingin beralih kerjaya.
Pertumbuhan data dan penggunaan aplikasi moden menjadikan pusat data tradisional semakin mahal dan kompleks, mendorong lebih banyak organisasi beralih kepada cloud. Peralihan ini melonjakkan permintaan terhadap jurutera cloud terlatih dan menjadikan pensijilan berkaitan antara keperluan paling kritikal dalam transformasi digital negara.
Sepanjang program, peserta didedahkan kepada latihan industri dan simulasi dunia sebenar untuk memastikan kesiapsiagaan memasuki pasaran kerja. Pendekatan ini bukan sahaja membina kemahiran teknikal, malah membuka peluang kerja fleksibel seperti freelancing dan konsultansi.
Bootcamp AI & Machine Learning yang ditawarkan Nexperts Academy juga antara kursus paling tinggi permohonan. Peserta mempelajari teknik analisis data, automasi, pembangunan penyelesaian berskala kecil dan besar serta membina sistem yang mampu membuat keputusan berdasarkan input pengguna. Ramai peserta bukan IT mendapati kemahiran automasi meningkatkan prestasi kerja harian mereka dan memudahkan proses perniagaan. Misalnya, suri rumah yang ingin memulakan perniagaan kecil dapat menggunakan teknik analisis data untuk menilai trend pasaran dan mengenal pasti produk berpotensi tinggi.
Pengarah Nexperts Academy, Nazreen Abdul Ghani, menegaskan prinsip “Kenapa jadi basic kalau boleh jadi premium?”, percaya bahawa pendedahan kepada teknologi mampu menjadikan individu lebih produktif, kreatif dan bernilai dalam pasaran kerja moden. Menurut beliau, ramai Bumiputera memiliki potensi besar tetapi kurang akses kepada pensijilan global. Inisiatif Yayasan Peneraju membuka pintu kepada rakyat untuk mendapatkan kemahiran yang kini menjadi keperluan kritikal industri. Pensijilan membuka laluan kepada kenaikan pangkat, tawaran kerja baharu dan gaji lebih tinggi, seterusnya mengubah taraf hidup peserta dan keluarga mereka.
CEO Nexperts Academy, Vaheed, turut menegaskan kepentingan pembangunan bakat Bumiputera dalam pertumbuhan ekonomi digital negara. Beliau menekankan bahawa ekonomi digital Malaysia tidak dapat berkembang tanpa barisan bakat Bumiputera yang terlatih. Matlamat mereka ialah menjadikan peserta sebagai profesional bertauliah yang bersedia memasuki industri teknologi bernilai tinggi dan menyumbang kepada aspirasi Malaysia sebagai negara berkemampuan AI menjelang 2030.
Sebagai penutup program selama lapan bulan ini, media dijemput bertemu peserta yang telah menamatkan latihan. Alumni berkongsi kisah kejayaan termasuk peralihan kerjaya ke sektor IT, peningkatan kemahiran teknikal dan tawaran kerja baharu, mencerminkan impak jelas inisiatif ini terhadap mobiliti sosial Bumiputera dan pembangunan modal insan negara.
Permohonan bagi pengambilan terakhir masih dibuka sehingga 15 Disember 2025. Maklumat kursus Nexperts Academy boleh disemak di www.nexpertsgrants.com dan laman rasmi akademi di www.nexpertsacademy.com.
Cradle menutup tirai penantian hampir dua dekad dengan penuh gemilang menerusi penganjuran showcase Cradle Live! pada 14 November 2025 di Poolside Bistro, Ideas Hotel Kuala Lumpur. Malam istimewa itu bukan sahaja menjadi medan meraikan pelancaran album studio baharu mereka berjudul Hela Nafasku, tetapi juga detik penuh simbolik yang menandakan kebangkitan semula band rock alternatif tersebut dalam dunia muzik tanah air. Setelah hampir 20 tahun tanpa naskhah studio baharu, kemunculan album ini memperlihatkan tekad Cradle untuk terus berkarya dan mengekalkan identiti unik mereka yang berteraskan roh rock Nusantara, sambil menyesuaikan diri dengan perubahan citarasa pendengar masa kini.
Album Hela Nafasku terhasil selepas proses kreatif yang memakan masa dua tahun, bermula pada 2023, dengan Addy Rasidi menjadi tunjang utama bukan sahaja sebagai gitaris, tetapi juga selaku Produser Album, Pengarah Artistik dan Penyusun Muzik. Menurut Addy, pembikinan album ini bukan sekadar menghidupkan kembali nama Cradle tetapi meneruskan kesinambungan legasi muzik yang telah dibina sejak penubuhan mereka pada tahun 1995. Dengan kehadiran era muzik moden yang lebih berpaksikan single, keputusan Cradle untuk menghasilkan sebuah album penuh berisi 11 buah lagu merupakan satu manifestasi komitmen mereka terhadap seni, selain menjadi penanda perjalanan tiga dekad kewujudan band ini.
Kembalinya Cradle ke pentas muzik turut diperkukuhkan dengan pembentukan barisan anggota baharu yang menyuntik nafas segar terhadap hala tuju muzik mereka. Addy meneruskan posisi sebagai gitaris utama, disertai oleh vokalis baharu Eiz Mohd, pemain bes Zul Wahab, dan pemain dram Adha Lizam. Proses mencari kombinasi yang tepat bukan usaha yang mudah; ia mengambil masa bertahun-tahun sebelum akhirnya empat pemuzik ini bertemu dalam satu keserasian yang tidak dipaksa. Addy sendiri mengakui bahawa perjalanan ini terasa seakan tersusun, dan kehadiran anggota baharu ini telah membentuk identiti Cradle dalam versi paling kukuh sejak sekian lama. Eiz, yang pernah bersama Gerilia dan membuat penampilan bersama Exists, menyifatkan peluang bersama Cradle sebagai satu tugasan besar tetapi meyakini gabungan mereka mampu membawa dimensi muzik yang lebih utuh dan berkarakter.
Showcase Cradle Live! yang berlangsung pada malam Jumaat tersebut disambut dalam suasana santai, bermula dengan sesi bufet makan malam sebelum pentas digegarkan dengan seleksi lagu baharu dan klasik. Para peminat yang telah merindukan sentuhan Cradle memenuhi ruang, membuktikan bahawa nama band ini masih memiliki tempat istimewa di hati pencinta muzik rock tempatan. Kemunculan legenda rock tanah air, Datuk Ramli Sarip, sebagai tetamu khas menambahkan lagi nilai sentimental dan sejarah kepada malam itu. Kolaborasi mereka menerusi lagu “Istilah Bercinta”, “Panah Beracun” dan “Teratai” bukan sahaja membangkitkan nostalgia, malah menjadi simbol hubungan musikal antara generasi.
Album Hela Nafasku yang dirakam di Studio 47, Singapura dan Studio Sonic, Malaysia, memuatkan lagu-lagu yang sebahagian besarnya dicipta oleh Addy dan Eiz, membawa gabungan elemen kontemporari dengan roh asal Cradle yang pernah mencetus fenomena pada era 90-an. Di bawah label Rasa Karya dengan Datuk Ramli Sarip sebagai Penasihat Eksekutif, album ini disusun dengan penuh teliti, mengangkat nilai produksi yang kemas serta menampilkan adunan bunyi yang segar tanpa mengorbankan identiti Cradle yang telah lama digemari peminat. Proses tersebut hanya bermula setelah Eiz menerima pelawaan untuk menyertai Cradle selepas lima tahun memikirkan tanggungjawab tersebut, menjadikan album ini lahir daripada kesabaran, dedikasi dan keyakinan yang mendalam terhadap masa depan Cradle.
Cradle yang pernah mencipta gelombang menerusi album sulung Gurindam Keluli (1996) dan meraih kemenangan besar di Anugerah Planet Muzik 2008 menerusi Ceritera Awan, kembali membuktikan keupayaan mereka untuk kekal relevan dalam landskap muzik semasa. Energi showcase tersebut memuncak apabila Cradle menutup malam dengan tiga lagu penuh intensiti — “Lara”, “Bangkit” dan “Ayuh” — yang menghangatkan suasana serta mencipta detik kemuncak yang membawa penonton hanyut dalam atmosfera rock yang menggetarkan. Dengan sambutan penuh semangat daripada peminat dan momentum yang semakin mengukuh, kebangkitan Cradle melalui Hela Nafasku bukan sekadar episod nostalgia, tetapi permulaan baharu yang membuka ruang kepada lebih banyak karya, persembahan dan perjalanan seni yang bakal terus menghiasi industri muzik tanah air.
Karnival Blueprint & i-SEED #KitaSelangor 2025 merupakan satu inisiatif strategik Kerajaan Negeri Selangor yang dianjurkan oleh Jawatankuasa Tetap Pembasmian Kemiskinan Negeri Selangor dengan kerjasama Pejabat Daerah dan Tanah Kuala Langat serta Majlis Perbandaran Kuala Langat (MPKL). Program ini bertujuan memperkukuh agenda pemberdayaan ekonomi serta meningkatkan keupayaan usahawan kecil, khususnya dalam kalangan masyarakat B40 di negeri ini. Seramai 40 penerima manfaat daripada Program Bantuan Peralatan Blueprint Pembasmian Kemiskinan dan Program Bantuan Peralatan Usahawan India Selangor (i-SEED) akan membuka reruai pameran dan jualan produk masing-masing, dengan karnival mensasarkan penyertaan kira-kira 300 peserta serta dijangka menarik lebih 10,000 pengunjung sepanjang tempoh penganjuran lebih 12 jam.
Selain memacu pembangunan peniaga kecil tempatan, pelbagai aktiviti kesihatan, kekeluargaan dan komuniti turut diadakan, termasuk perkongsian kejayaan usahawan penerima bantuan, pertandingan sukan dan memasak, kawasan permainan kanak-kanak, pameran agensi kerajaan seperti PDRM dan JBPM, kaunter pengurangan saman trafik, serta pemeriksaan kesihatan percuma. Program berinformasi juga disediakan, termasuk kursus keusahawanan oleh TEKUN Nasional, AIM, MARA, HIJRAH Selangor dan KOHIJRAH, manakala agensi lain seperti SME Corp, PUNB dan HRD Corp menawarkan sokongan keusahawanan, dan SIDEC, MDEC serta SELDEC memperkenalkan inisiatif pendigitalan. Persembahan artis popular seperti Ukays dan Keena Mentor juga menjadi tarikan utama karnival.
Salah satu pengisian utama karnival ialah Anugerah Penerima Blueprint & i-SEED #KitaSelangor 2025, yang mengiktiraf pencapaian usahawan kecil berdasarkan pertumbuhan jualan, inovasi produk, daya tahan perniagaan, impak komuniti dan penggunaan teknologi digital. Pengiktirafan ini diharap memberi motivasi kepada penerima bantuan untuk terus berkembang dan menjadi inspirasi kepada usahawan lain. Secara keseluruhan, karnival ini dijangka memberi impak besar terhadap pembangunan sosioekonomi usahawan kecil di Selangor, membuka peluang pemasaran, memperluas jaringan perniagaan dan memberi pendedahan kepada generasi muda mengenai potensi bidang keusahawanan. Pelaksanaan karnival ini juga memperkukuh ekosistem keusahawanan negeri melalui kerjasama agensi kerajaan, institusi kewangan dan komuniti perniagaan, sejajar dengan komitmen Kerajaan Negeri Selangor dalam memajukan ekonomi inklusif dan mampan.
