MalaysianUpdates

Author: Helmi Aziz

  • Susuk, kecantikan dan syirik jadi teras konflik dalam Tembuni Berdarah

    Filem seram tempatan kembali dengan sentuhan baharu apabila TEMBUNI BERDARAH diangkat sebagai karya yang mengetengahkan isu pemakaian susuk dalam dunia estetika kecantikan serta pertembungan ideologi antara generasi lama dan generasi baharu. Diterbitkan oleh Lindo Production Sdn Bhd dan diarahkan oleh Dr Ahmad Idham, filem ini dibintangi oleh barisan pelakon hebat antaranya Sophia Albarakbah, Niezam Zaidi, Khatijah Tan, Shahirah Shahora, Riezman Khuzaimi serta Mia Nasir.

    Mengulas mengenai naskhah terbaharunya ini, Idham menjelaskan bahawa meskipun beliau pernah menghasilkan banyak filem seram, permintaan penonton untuk melihat karyanya kembali ke genre yang sinonim dengan nama beliau seperti Jangan Pandang Belakang dan Congkak masih kuat. Menurutnya, TEMBUNI BERDARAH hadir dengan aura yang hampir sama, namun kali ini beliau lebih memberi penekanan kepada perbezaan ideologi tentang penggunaan amalan syirik antara generasi lama dan baharu.

    Filem ini turut mengangkat fenomena dunia moden apabila semakin ramai masyarakat memilih rawatan estetik dan produk kecantikan sebagai jalan untuk menjaga penampilan, kelihatan cantik serta awet muda. Idham berkata beliau mahu mengaitkan elemen seram dengan realiti hari ini supaya lebih dekat dengan kehidupan penonton. Malah, bagi mengekalkan momentum, elemen drama yang berat dikurangkan dan digantikan dengan lebih banyak adegan kejutan.

    Idham turut berkongsi bahawa sebagai teraju utama, Sophia Albarakbah diberikan cabaran besar untuk keluar daripada zon selesa dengan membawakan lakonan berbeza termasuk adegan yang memerlukan pengorbanan fizikal seperti bermain dengan darah serta berlakon di kawasan kubur pada waktu malam. Pengalaman Sophia sebagai pelajar perubatan dan pernah bekerja di hospital turut membantu kerana beliau tidak kekok berinteraksi dengan jarum, alat perubatan dan suasana yang berkait dengan dunia kesihatan.

    Penggambaran filem ini berlangsung selama 20 hari di sekitar Kuala Lumpur dan Selangor, termasuk ketika bulan Ramadan lalu. TEMBUNI BERDARAH dijangka menemui penonton di seluruh pawagam tanah air pada 25 September 2025.

    Mengisahkan Dr Izara lakonan Sophia Albarakbah yang berpegang pada prinsip bahawa kejayaan hanya boleh dicapai melalui usaha dan kerja keras, filem ini memperlihatkan cabaran apabila neneknya, Bok Miah lakonan Khatijah Tan, percaya bahawa ilmu hitam adalah jalan pintas untuk membantu anak cucunya mencapai kesenangan. Konflik semakin memuncak apabila perbezaan prinsip ini turut mengaitkan keruntuhan rumah tangga Dr Izara dengan Aidan, lakonan Niezam Zaidi. Persoalannya, adakah Dr Izara akan tetap teguh dengan pendiriannya atau akhirnya tunduk kepada kehendak neneknya?

    Filem ini bukan sahaja menawarkan elemen seram, tetapi turut menyampaikan mesej tentang harga yang perlu dibayar apabila manusia memilih jalan singkat untuk mengejar kecantikan dan kejayaan. TEMBUNI BERDARAH bakal membawa penonton menyelami pertarungan antara tradisi lama dan pemikiran moden dalam kerangka sebuah kisah seram yang menguji iman serta prinsip.

  • BMC Family 360° Kembali dengan Lebih Meriah, Nabila Razali Antara Penghibur Utama

    Pesta keluarga mampan terbesar di Kajang, BMC Family 360° bertemakan “A Step to the Future” bakal berlangsung meriah di BMC Mall, Bandar Mahkota Cheras bermula 19 hingga 21 September 2025 dari jam 10 pagi hingga 10 malam. Acara berskala besar ini dianjurkan oleh AI Global dengan kerjasama Majlis Perbandaran Kajang (MPKj), BMC Mall, iBidan serta CelcomDigi dan dijangka menjadi tumpuan ribuan pengunjung.

    BMC Family 360° menampilkan pendekatan berlandaskan Matlamat Pembangunan Mampan Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu (UN SDG) dengan objektif memperkukuh nilai kekeluargaan, membina komuniti mampan dan menggalakkan gaya hidup pintar. Acara ini disusun dengan pelbagai aktiviti interaktif, pameran, pertunjukan dan hiburan yang sesuai untuk semua peringkat umur, menjadikannya sebuah karnival keluarga yang menyeluruh.

    Turut menjadi perhatian adalah kehadiran penyanyi popular Nabila Razali yang dilantik sebagai jurucakap rasmi acara ini. Nabila atau lebih mesra disapa Bella mengakui dirinya semakin giat membuat persiapan bukan sahaja untuk persembahan, tetapi juga untuk menyampaikan mesej berkaitan kepentingan SDG kepada masyarakat. Menurutnya, penglibatan ini membuka peluang besar untuk dirinya memperkenalkan gaya hidup mampan dalam kehidupan seharian seperti menjaga kesihatan, menitikberatkan pendidikan, menggunakan air dan elektrik secara berhemah serta memastikan persekitaran yang baik untuk keluarga.

    Nabila menegaskan bahawa usaha menerapkan amalan berasaskan SDG tidaklah serumit yang disangka. Katanya, apa yang penting adalah kemahuan untuk memulakannya kerana setiap langkah kecil mampu memberi impak besar kepada masa depan. Beliau juga meluahkan rasa bangga kerana diberi peluang untuk menjadi suara generasi muda yang menyampaikan mesej penting ini, sambil menyifatkan pengalaman ini sebagai sesuatu yang berharga dan bermanfaat bukan sahaja untuk dirinya tetapi juga untuk masyarakat sejagat.

    BMC Family 360° menjanjikan pelbagai pengalaman menarik sepanjang tiga hari berlangsung. Upacara perasmian akan diadakan pada 19 September 2025 jam 3 petang dengan kehadiran tetamu khas dan Nabila sebagai jurucakap rasmi acara. Malam berikutnya, 20 September jam 8 malam, penonton akan dihiburkan dengan Persembahan Malam SDG yang menggabungkan muzik, budaya dan mesej kemampanan dengan penampilan istimewa Nabila Razali. Selain itu, pengunjung juga akan dapat menyaksikan pameran oleh Angkatan Tentera Malaysia serta pameran dan showcase daripada agensi kerajaan, swasta dan NGO selaras dengan 17 SDG.

    Acara ini turut menyediakan ruang riadah untuk seisi keluarga dengan adanya mini zoo, pertandingan melukis dan mewarna, segmen e-sukan serta ruang permainan interaktif. Tidak ketinggalan juga pameran inovasi dan jualan melibatkan bidang pendidikan, teknologi, kesihatan, makanan dan gaya hidup lestari.

    Dengan sasaran lebih 10,000 pengunjung dari sekitar Kajang, Cheras dan Lembah Klang, BMC Family 360° diyakini akan menjadi platform terbaik untuk keluarga meluangkan masa berkualiti bersama-sama. Ia bukan sahaja menjanjikan hiburan, malah menggabungkan ilmu pengetahuan, kesedaran kemampanan dan kebersamaan dalam suasana penuh keceriaan.

    Mari sama-sama melangkah ke masa depan yang lebih mampan dengan memeriahkan BMC Family 360°, sebuah acara keluarga yang bakal memberi inspirasi kepada semua.

  • Aura Jung Yong Hwa Penuhi Mega Star Arena, Konsert Solo Jadi Kenangan Indah

    Malam di Mega Star Arena, Kuala Lumpur menjadi saksi kepada persembahan solo sulung Jung Yong Hwa di Malaysia menerusi konsert 2025 JUNG YONG HWA LIVE ‘Director’s Cut: Our Fine Days’. Dianjurkan oleh Lo-Fi Entertainment, konsert ini berjaya memukau lebih 2,000 peminat setianya, BOICE, yang hadir dengan penuh semangat bagi meraikan idola kesayangan mereka.

    Yong Hwa membuka tirai persembahan dengan penuh karisma, tampil segak dalam sut kemas dan berkaca mata. Beliau membuat gimik istimewa apabila berjalan dari kawasan penonton menuju ke pentas, simbolik kepada perjalanan karier solonya yang kini mencecah lebih sedekad. Lagu “One Fine Day” dan “Your City” menjadi pilihan pembukaan, sebelum beliau menyapa penonton dalam Bahasa Melayu dengan ucapan mesra, “Apa khabar sayang?” Beliau turut mengakui cuaca panas di Kuala Lumpur tidak menjadi halangan, malah menambahkan keterujaannya dapat bertemu peminat sekali lagi.

    Sebelum ini, Yong Hwa pernah mempelajari beberapa perkataan Bahasa Melayu ketika kunjungan CNBLUE ke Malaysia. Kali ini, beliau lebih kerap menggunakan ungkapan seperti “Mantap”, “Janji”, “Bagus” dan “Terima Kasih” sepanjang konsert. Malah, dalam satu momen spontan, beliau menambah perkataan baharu “Jerit semua!” yang serta-merta mencetuskan sorakan gemuruh daripada penonton.

    Interaksi mesra bersama peminat tidak terhenti di situ. Ketika ditanya mengenai makanan tempatan, penonton menyarankan durian, yang dibalas Yong Hwa dengan penuh berseloroh, “Durian all day long?” Jawapan itu mengundang gelak tawa dan sorakan riang dari seluruh dewan. Lebih menarik, beliau turut berkongsi bahawa rakan rapatnya, pelakon terkenal Park Bo Gum, sempat bertemunya di belakang pentas hanya dua jam sebelum konsert bermula.

    Sepanjang lebih tiga jam persembahan, Yong Hwa bukan sahaja memukau dengan nyanyian dan tarian, tetapi juga menampilkan sisi mesra serta penuh kejutan. Beliau kembali ke pentas untuk dua kali encore, mempamerkan kemahiran bermain dram dan turun ke kawasan BOICE Zon untuk berinteraksi lebih dekat dengan peminat.

    Konsert yang sarat dengan momen manis ini berakhir dengan penuh gemilang, meninggalkan kenangan istimewa buat semua yang hadir. Malam tersebut bukan sahaja menandakan kejayaan persembahan solo pertama Jung Yong Hwa di Malaysia, tetapi juga membuktikan bahawa pesona bintang Korea ini terus kekal memikat hati peminat tanpa mengira masa.

  • Shaping the Future: Samsung SEAO’s President & CEO on AI and Innovation

    The rapid rise and popularity of artificial intelligence has seen many companies racing to join the movement. For Samsung, however, AI is not a sudden trend. It is a technology the company has been developing and integrating into its devices for more than a decade, with the aim of delivering meaningful benefits to users through innovation. Earlier this year at CES 2025, Samsung unveiled its “AI for All” vision, a mission to empower users through AI at every touchpoint.

    In a recent conversation with CU Kim, President and CEO of Southeast Asia and Oceania at Samsung Electronics, a clearer picture emerged of how Samsung is applying AI in one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in the world. At the heart of the discussion was the company’s focus on democratizing AI so that it provides genuine value across different price points and levels of technical literacy. According to Kim, 77 percent of Galaxy AI-powered device users in the region are actively engaging with Galaxy AI features. These features are not only available on the latest flagship devices but also on earlier models, the FE and Tab series, and even on the more affordable Galaxy A series. Popular features such as Circle to Search with Google and Best Face are already improving the everyday experiences of users.

    What sets Samsung’s approach apart is its emphasis on solving real challenges. In a region marked by extraordinary linguistic diversity, AI-powered translation features are breaking down communication barriers. At the same time, on-device AI capabilities mean that users are not entirely dependent on cloud connectivity, ensuring a reliable experience even in areas with uneven network infrastructure. Samsung is also extending intelligence beyond mobile into its wider ecosystem. With Home AI and the SmartThings platform, the company is creating hyper-personalized smart home environments that adapt to user habits and routines.

    Looking at the broader landscape, Kim explained that consumers now expect greater efficiency, seamlessness, and ease of use in their daily lives. Features such as the AI ProVisual Engine and Enhanced Search on the Galaxy S25 series have been particularly sought after. In the home, AI-enabled OLED and Neo QLED televisions are delivering personalized and advanced viewing experiences. Beyond personal use, Samsung is also tapping into the enthusiasm of younger generations. A recent Samsung survey revealed that nine out of ten youths in Southeast Asia already incorporate AI tools into their learning, creativity, and community projects. Many believe AI will create new opportunities, even as some traditional jobs fade, and are actively developing AI-related skills.

    For businesses and organizations in Southeast Asia and Oceania, Kim sees tremendous potential. With rapidly advancing digital infrastructure, companies in the region can leapfrog older systems and implement AI-driven solutions from the ground up. Samsung is enabling this shift through initiatives such as SmartThings Pro, a platform designed to create intelligent environments that boost efficiency and customer experiences. The company has already introduced AI solutions in industries ranging from hospitality to education, including the Samsung Digital Lighthouse School program in Indonesia, which is enhancing the learning experience of thousands of students through Galaxy Tab devices.

    Looking ahead, Kim expressed particular excitement about how Samsung’s innovations will empower communities. Gaming enthusiasts, for example, can look forward to console-quality visuals on the Galaxy S25 series with features like ProScaler and advanced Ray Tracing. The company has also partnered with Moonton Games to launch the first-ever MLBB Campus Series tournament for students in Southeast Asia, part of its Galaxy Gaming Academy initiative to support the next generation of esports players.

    In daily life, Samsung is moving beyond simple device control to create intelligent environments that anticipate user needs. Samsung Health and SmartThings are able to optimize sleep environments by adjusting temperature and humidity according to individual sleep patterns and environmental conditions. Upcoming innovations such as the Galaxy S25 Edge smartphone and the Bespoke AI home appliances with SmartThings will continue this focus on accessibility, personalization, and security.

    For Samsung, the future of AI is not about replacing human capability but enhancing it. As CU Kim emphasized, the company is committed to ensuring that AI remains a trusted companion that empowers rather than complicates daily life. In Southeast Asia and Oceania, Samsung is working closely with communities to build this future together.

    To learn more about Galaxy AI, visit www.samsung.com/my/galaxy-ai.

  • HONOR X9d 5G Proves Its Strength: Plasma Cannon & Air Nail Gun Test Passed

    The wait is almost over as HONOR officially confirms the launch of its latest ultra-tough smartphone, the HONOR X9d 5G, scheduled for 24 September 2025. Full specifications and pricing will be revealed on the launch day, but anticipation is already building as the brand introduces a device set to redefine durability standards in the mid-range segment. As the successor to Malaysia’s best-selling mid-range model, the HONOR X9d 5G comes with major upgrades in structural toughness, screen resilience, water and heat resistance, and battery capacity, ensuring a smartphone built for endurance and long-term reliability.

    The HONOR X9d 5G stands out with three industry-first innovations that strengthen its position as one of the most durable smartphones available today. Engineered to survive accidental drops, scratches, and extreme temperatures, the device has been awarded the Industry’s First SGS Triple-Resistant Premium Performance Certification, which confirms its verified resistance to drops, water, heat, and surface damage. It also leads the industry with an IP69K rating, offering superior protection against high-pressure water, steam, and dust, making it one of the most rugged devices in its category. Complementing these features is the industry’s largest smartphone battery, an impressive 8300mAh silicon-carbon unit, designed to deliver exceptional power even in the toughest conditions.

    To prove its claims, HONOR conducted a series of extreme stress tests during a private media preview. In one demonstration, the HONOR X9d 5G was subjected to blasts from a plasma cannon, exposing it to intense heat and pressure far beyond typical real-world scenarios. Despite the punishing conditions, the device continued to function without visible damage. Another test involved firing nails directly at the phone’s display using an industrial-grade air nail gun and a heavy-duty stapler gun. While cans and tempered glass shattered under the same force, the smartphone’s screen remained intact, showcasing its unmatched structural resilience.

    The device also excelled in water and dust resistance trials. It was submerged in an aquarium for hours and later exposed to steaming conditions inside a kitchen steamer, followed by immersion in a soil-and-water mixture to mimic rugged outdoor use. In every situation, the HONOR X9d 5G remained fully functional, reinforcing its capability to withstand demanding environments.

    Beyond durability, battery life is another key highlight. The HONOR X9d 5G’s 8300mAh silicon-carbon battery is the largest of its kind in the industry, offering extended usage for gaming, streaming, and browsing. In comparative tests against 20 other smartphones, it was the last device running, demonstrating its superior endurance. The phone was even able to power a neon LED board through reverse charging for an extended period, proving both its capacity and output efficiency.

    These demonstrations underline HONOR’s commitment to building smartphones that not only perform well but also stand the test of time in real-world scenarios. From high-pressure impacts and extreme heat to water immersion and dusty conditions, the HONOR X9d 5G has been engineered to endure situations beyond the ordinary.

    With its groundbreaking durability, industry-leading certifications, and powerful battery performance, the HONOR X9d 5G is set to elevate expectations for mid-range smartphones. The official launch in Malaysia will take place on 24 September 2025, with consumers invited to follow HONOR Malaysia’s official Facebook page or visit www.honor.com/my for the latest updates.

  • Menua dengan Martabat: Strategi Penjagaan Warga Emas 2030

    Malaysia kini semakin menghampiri status negara menua, dengan anggaran warga emas dijangka merangkumi 15.3% daripada keseluruhan populasi menjelang 2030. Menurut ramalan, satu daripada setiap lima rakyat Malaysia akan tergolong dalam kategori warga emas menjelang 2040. Peralihan demografi ini dijangka menyumbang kepada peningkatan penyakit tidak berjangkit dan memberi tekanan yang lebih besar kepada sistem penjagaan kesihatan, terutamanya berkaitan penyakit degeneratif yang semakin meningkat.

    Dalam menghadapi cabaran ini, Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity bertekad untuk meningkatkan akses warga emas kepada prosedur pembedahan dan rawatan perubatan yang biasa diperlukan, membolehkan mereka mengekalkan kesihatan yang baik, memulihkan mobiliti, dan kembali berdikari. Selain itu, usaha ini juga bertujuan mengurangkan beban yang ditanggung oleh keluarga serta komuniti yang menyediakan sokongan dan penjagaan kepada warga emas. Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity, Susan Cheow, menyatakan bahawa perubahan demografi ini merupakan tanggungjawab yang perlu digalas, dan pihaknya komited menyediakan penyelesaian yang memastikan jaminan kepada warga emas serta keluarga mereka.

    Bagi kebanyakan warga emas, menangguhkan rawatan perubatan sering mengakibatkan penyakit hanya dapat dikesan pada peringkat yang lebih serius. Golongan ini juga merupakan antara mereka yang mempunyai keperluan penjagaan kesihatan tertinggi tetapi tidak dipenuhi, terutamanya kerana kekurangan pengetahuan mengenai rawatan yang tersedia dan kekangan kewangan. Pengarah Perubatan dan Pakar Perunding Kecemasan, Dr Wee Tong Ming, menjelaskan bahawa banyak komplikasi boleh dielakkan jika rawatan diterima lebih awal, sekali gus menjadikan pemulihan lebih cepat dan peluang untuk kembali berdikari lebih tinggi.

    Isu kesihatan yang serius seperti penyakit jantung kekal sebagai penyebab utama kematian di negara ini, manakala strok menyebabkan kehilangan upaya jangka panjang yang mengubah kehidupan harian. Osteoartritis, terutama pada lutut, mengurangkan mobiliti warga emas sehingga aktiviti harian seperti berjalan atau menaiki tangga menjadi lebih sukar. Penyakit yang sering diabaikan seperti batu karang atau hernia juga boleh berkembang secara senyap dan menjadi kecemasan dengan risiko yang lebih tinggi pada usia lanjut. Kesemua keadaan ini bukan sahaja menjejaskan jangka hayat, tetapi juga kemampuan warga emas untuk mengekalkan kemandirian.

    Untuk menangani cabaran ini, Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity akan memperkenalkan program Golden Hands for Golden Care dari 10 September hingga 10 November 2025. Program ini menawarkan prosedur pembedahan dan rawatan perubatan yang biasa bagi warga emas berumur 60 tahun ke atas yang membayar sendiri. Fokus utama adalah kepada penyakit berkaitan usia, dengan tujuan memulihkan kesihatan, mobiliti, dan kemampuan untuk kembali berdikari. Dr Wee menekankan bahawa pembedahan yang dilakukan tepat pada masanya meningkatkan peluang pemulihan yang lebih cepat dan membantu pesakit mengekalkan keupayaan diri mereka.

    Manfaat rawatan awal bukan sahaja dirasai oleh pesakit, tetapi turut memberi kesan positif kepada keluarga. Apabila warga emas memperoleh semula kemampuan mereka, keluarga akan menikmati ketenangan fikiran, dan cucu-cicit dapat menghabiskan lebih banyak masa berkualiti bersama atuk dan nenek. Komuniti juga dapat terus mendapat manfaat daripada sumbangan warga tua yang aktif dan terlibat secara sosial. Selain itu, SMCV turut menekankan pemulihan selepas strok bagi membantu pesakit memulihkan kemampuan motor, pertuturan, dan kognitif.

    Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity menekankan bahawa penjagaan bukan sekadar merawat penyakit, tetapi memulihkan keupayaan dan keyakinan warga emas supaya mereka dapat mengambil bahagian sepenuhnya dalam kehidupan seharian. Dengan memperluas akses kepada rawatan pembedahan dan prosedur berkaitan usia, SMCV berharap warga emas dapat menerima rawatan yang mereka perlukan tanpa menangguh. Program ini diharapkan menjadikan rawatan perubatan berkualiti lebih mudah diakses dan bermakna bagi warga emas di Malaysia. Untuk maklumat lanjut mengenai program Golden Hands for Golden Care, orang ramai boleh melayari laman sesawang SMCV atau hadir berunding dengan pakar bedah yang terlibat.

    Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity terletak di Lingkaran SV, Sunway Velocity. Sebarang pertanyaan boleh dibuat melalui telefon di talian +603 9772 9191 atau emel smcv-enquiry@sunway.com.my. Maklumat lanjut mengenai SMCV juga boleh diperoleh di www.sunwaymedicalvelocity.com.my.

  • Universal Music Malaysia Rangkul 10 Trofi di AIM24

    Universal Music Malaysia (UM) sekali lagi membuktikan keunggulannya dalam industri muzik tanah air apabila mendominasi Anugerah Industri Muzik ke-24 (AIM24) dengan meraih 10 trofi hasil kerjasama bersama Faithful Music. Pencapaian ini terus mengekalkan status UM sebagai syarikat rakaman nombor satu di Malaysia.

    Antara kemenangan besar yang dicatat termasuk kategori Kolaborasi Artis Tempatan Bersama Artis atau Komposer Luar Negara Terbaik menerusi lagu Masing-Masing dendangan Ernie Zakri dan Ade Govinda, Kulit Single atau Album Terbaik yang dimenangi oleh Iman melalui karya Irfan Ramos, Rakaman Lagu Terbaik untuk Aura hasil sentuhan John Jeeves, Album Terbaik menerusi Belagu II terbitan Aubrey Suwito dan diedarkan oleh UM serta Lagu Paling Tinggi Distrim yang juga diraih oleh Masing-Masing.

    Lebih manis, album Belagu II yang dipersembahkan oleh Dayang Nurfaizah turut menerima penghargaan utama iaitu Dana Kandungan Digital bernilai RM200,000 daripada Kementerian Komunikasi melalui MyCreative Ventures. Album ini merupakan hasil kerjasama erat bersama UM, menjadikannya antara sorotan penting malam berprestij tersebut.

    Malam AIM24 juga mencatat momen istimewa apabila Biduanita Negara, Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza menerima pengiktirafan tertinggi, Anugerah Sri Wirama, atas sumbangan gemilang beliau sepanjang lebih 30 tahun berkarya dalam dunia muzik. Siti yang juga rakan kerjasama UM menerusi syarikat miliknya SN Legacy terus menjadi ikon unggul dalam arena seni.

    Menurut Pengarah Urusan Universal Music Malaysia, Kim Lim, kejayaan ini adalah bukti komitmen syarikat dalam mengangkat bakat tempatan ke persada antarabangsa. Beliau menegaskan bahawa setiap kemenangan mencerminkan dedikasi seluruh pasukan dalam membentuk dan mengembangkan bakat seni yang mampu bersaing di peringkat global.

    Ernie Zakri yang membawa pulang dua anugerah AIM24 turut meluahkan rasa syukur. Katanya, kemenangan bagi lagu Masing-Masing dan album Aura bukan hanya miliknya tetapi hasil usaha seluruh pasukan kreatif. Beliau percaya pencapaian ini membuktikan muzik Malaysia berpotensi untuk terus diterima di rantau Asia Tenggara.

    Selain kejayaan besar, AIM24 turut diserikan dengan persembahan hebat daripada artis UM dari Malaysia dan Nusantara. Antara yang mencuri perhatian ialah persembahan pembukaan DOLLA bersama Tobii dari Def Jam Thailand, kolaborasi Ernie Zakri bersama Anggi Marito dari Universal Music Indonesia serta persembahan penuh emosi Ernie dengan Ade Govinda dari MyMusic Records.

    Turut menjadi tumpuan ialah kejayaan Faizal Tahir yang membawa pulang empat anugerah menerusi lagu Campak Bintang bersama Datuk M Nasir bagi kategori Vokal Duo atau Kolaborasi Terbaik, Biar Satu Dunia Tahu bersama Mirwana untuk Lagu Nasyid Terbaik, Bendera bagi kategori Lagu Perpaduan Terbaik serta Santai yang mencatat hasilan video tertinggi di TikTok. Faizal dalam ucapannya menekankan bahawa muzik adalah amanah yang membawa mesej bermanfaat, sekali gus mengharapkan pencapaiannya mampu menjadi inspirasi buat generasi baharu pencipta muzik tempatan.

    AIM24 turut menjadi pentas bersejarah buat beberapa nama baharu yang pertama kali diraikan dengan kemenangan. Antara mereka ialah Hanis Rafi, Iqie Hugh, Glowrush, Fahimi dan Firdaus Rahmat. Pencapaian ini mengukuhkan AIM24 sebagai platform penting dalam mengiktiraf kepelbagaian bakat dan usaha generasi baharu serta penggiat muzik mapan yang terus memberi warna kepada industri hiburan tanah air.

  • Trip.com Strengthens Regional Presence with Expanded Malaysia Support Hub

    Trip.com, a leading international one-stop travel service provider, recently celebrated the official opening of its expanded Malaysia Customer Support Center, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance travel experiences for millions of travelers worldwide.

    As artificial intelligence continues to transform the travel industry with innovations such as AI-powered recommendations, instant translation tools, and real-time assistance, Trip.com believes that true service excellence comes from blending technological innovation with human expertise. With around 16,000 representatives across 16 support centers worldwide, Trip.com Group’s global customer service network reflects this philosophy by delivering 24/7 multilingual assistance. The majority of calls and chats related to flights and hotels are answered within 30 seconds, ensuring travelers always receive reliable, efficient, and empathetic support throughout their journey.

    Since its establishment in 2023, the Malaysia Customer Support Center has achieved tenfold growth in just two years, cementing its position as a strategic hub within Trip.com’s global operations. The center now supports a wide range of Trip.com products and plays a vital role in driving the company’s regional growth.

    “Automation enhances speed and efficiency, but at Trip.com we never lose sight of the human touch,” said Arvin Singh, Senior Service Manager at Trip.com Malaysia. “As a fully Malaysian team, we have the expertise, from local languages to cultural nuances, to better understand our customers and their needs. By combining this with cutting-edge technology, we are able to provide personalized and effective solutions that ensure our customers feel truly supported.”

    Trip.com’s strong service culture is reflected in its performance, with the majority of customer requests after sales receiving responses within 30 minutes to one hour. More than 85 percent of issues are successfully resolved on the first attempt, and the platform currently holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.4 out of 5, highlighting the trust and confidence customers place in its services.

    Stephane Thong, General Manager of Trip.com Malaysia, emphasized the importance of the local market to the company’s overall strategy. “Malaysia and Southeast Asia are among our most important markets, contributing significantly to Trip.com’s steady growth performance. Expanding our customer service operations here reflects our long-term vision of making Malaysia a hub not only for customer support but also for travel innovation, talent development, and collaboration with local industry partners. We see tremendous potential in strengthening the local tourism ecosystem, attracting more international visitors, and ensuring that every traveler who engages with Trip.com enjoys a seamless and memorable journey.”

    She added that with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approaching, Trip.com is committed to supporting the country’s tourism goals. By leveraging its platform, the company aims to increase Malaysia’s visibility on the global stage and provide enhanced travel experiences for all.

    Trip.com Group’s customer-first philosophy has powered its growth over the past 25 years, balancing innovation with genuine human empathy. The expansion of the Malaysia Customer Support Center forms part of its global growth strategy and reinforces the company’s commitment to setting new benchmarks for travel service excellence across Southeast Asia and beyond.

  • Gemini Live, Galaxy A17 5G Style – Cakap Je, Terus Jawab!

    If you have ever been around children, you will know that their questions never stop. From “Why is the sky blue?” to “Where do clouds go at night?” or “Why do cats sleep all day?” the curiosity is endless. Eventually, parents run out of answers or patience. But now, there is someone who never does.

    With Gemini Live on the Galaxy A17 5G, your phone becomes the friend who is always ready to listen and respond. There are no scripts and no formality. You simply talk naturally and your Galaxy answers back. It feels as easy as having a conversation with someone who is always by your side.

    Gemini Live is designed to adapt to your needs in any situation. It can act as a study buddy to help explain a tough subject, a pep-talk coach before a big presentation, or even a late-night companion when you want to chat about your favourite K-dramas while cooking. The experience is flexible, shifting between the roles of sibling, teacher, or therapist depending on what you need in the moment.

    What makes Gemini Live especially powerful is its ability to handle real-time conversations. There is no need to type, search, or rely on stiff commands. You simply speak the way you would to a friend, and your Galaxy A17 5G responds instantly with clear answers or support. More than just a feature, Gemini Live transforms the Galaxy A17 5G into a true companion. It listens when you need it, answers when you ask, and is always ready for whatever comes next.

    At under RM1,000, the Galaxy A17 5G brings AI-powered innovation to everyday life in a way that is simple, personal, and accessible for everyone. Malaysians are already showing how natural it feels to use Gemini Live on TikTok, where short clips highlight how easy it is to just “cakap jer” and get a reply instantly. A video on YouTube captures the fun side of Gemini Live, demonstrating how seamlessly it fits into daily conversations.

    The Galaxy A17 5G is now available in Malaysia in Black, Gray, and Blue. Alongside it, the Galaxy A07 LTE is also available in Light Violet, Green, and Black. The Galaxy A17 LTE will join the lineup from 26 September 2025, further expanding the range of stylish and affordable devices.

    To celebrate the launch, Samsung is offering Malaysians exclusive promotions throughout the month of September. Customers can enjoy rebates that make the Galaxy A17 5G available at only RM799 for the 8+128GB variant and RM899 for the 8+256GB variant. Purchases of the Galaxy A17 5G or Galaxy A07 LTE during the promotion period also come with a free one-year extended warranty and a complimentary 25W travel adapter.

    Shoppers can also enjoy special bundle deals, such as the opportunity to purchase Galaxy Buds Core at a discounted price of RM139, down from RM199, with any Galaxy A07 LTE or Galaxy A17 purchase. Selected branded accessories including battery packs and protective cases are also available at thirty percent off.

    The Galaxy A17 5G is more than just another smartphone. With Gemini Live, it becomes a constant companion that adapts to your lifestyle, making conversations easier, smarter, and more personal. For Malaysians looking for an affordable way to experience AI in their daily lives, the Galaxy A17 5G delivers on both performance and price.

    For more details or to purchase the Galaxy A17 5G, visit Samsung’s official website at samsung.com/my.

  • Lotus’s CCR’25 Attracts 4,500 Runners, Raises RM400k for PINTAR Foundation

    Lotuss Stores (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (Lotus’s Malaysia) successfully hosted the third edition of its Ceria Charity Run 2025 (CCR’25) at Lotus’s Bandar Bukit Puchong. The event brought together more than 4,500 runners and over 120 brand partners in a united effort to support education. A total of RM400,000 was raised for the Lotus’s–PINTAR SMART Up School Programme, reaffirming the company’s commitment to empowering under-resourced communities through education.

    Since its launch in 2023, the “Jom Lari, Kutip & Kongsi Ceria” run concept has evolved into an annual movement eagerly anticipated by Malaysians and international participants of all ages. The funds raised will be channeled into sustainable education programmes designed to enhance academic performance, encourage personal growth, and improve access to learning resources in underserved schools nationwide. Among the initiatives supported is the SMART Shopper Plus workshop, which focuses on money management, financial literacy, and positive shopping habits. With this collaboration, Lotus’s and PINTAR are already reaching thousands of students, with the ambition of extending their impact to 50,000 students across Malaysia in the near future.

    This year’s CCR’25 featured three race categories: 15KM, 10KM, and 5KM. Along the route, runners received reusable bags filled with treats including Lotus’s Tom Yum instant noodles, Lotus’s Caramel Latte sachets, Nax Nax biscuits, and Coca-Cola’s Fuze Tea. At the finish line, participants were presented with a CCR’25 medal and a collection of branded goodies worth up to RM350.

    Lotus’s Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, Saksit Panurach, expressed his pride in the event’s growth, noting that the number of participants had risen from 3,000 in 2023 to over 4,500 this year. He emphasized that the Lotus’s Ceria Charity Run had become more than just a community gathering, but a movement that combines health, unity, and purpose, while giving back to education programmes that nurture the nation’s youth beyond the classroom. He also extended gratitude to brand partners and participants for making the event a success.

    Beyond the race, the community enjoyed a vibrant Race Village featuring more than 40 product sampling booths, food trucks, and engaging activities. Renowned brands including Nescafe, Milo, Nestum, Koko Krunch, Enercal, Omega, Nestle Ice Cream, Jacobs, Chips More, Oreo, Tiger, Dugro, Aptamil, Ahmad Tea, Farm Fresh, Yeos, Gillette, Schick, Happy, Mi Sedaap, Chagee, and Horlicks participated alongside local food and beverage businesses, creating a festive and family-friendly atmosphere. Adding to the excitement were popular mascots such as Lotus’s LoLo the polar bear, Mondelez’s Cookie Guy, Tiggo, Coca-Cola’s Cola Bear, and Breeze’s mascot.

    The event concluded with a lucky draw and a mock cheque presentation to PINTAR Foundation. A total of 197 prizes were awarded, including a SHARP 75-inch 4K UHD Google TV and a Zero ZT-Velox Treadmill as the grand prizes.