MalaysianUpdates

Author: Helmi Aziz

  • OPPO ATTEMPTS TO PROVIDE DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ‘GOLDEN PHOTOGRAPHY’ WORKSHOP.

    Through its senior-only smartphone photography course, which is based on the company’s philosophy of “Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World,” OPPO makes sure that no one is left behind when it comes to digital empowerment and technology know-how.

    Held in partnership with Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Bengkel Teknologi Senior, OPPO provided a group of 19 senior citizens with the opportunity to upskill and pursue creativity through the smartphone photography masterclass, which included modules on shooting true-to-life portraits as well as bokeh photographs using the OPPO Reno10 Pro+ smartphone.

    “We firmly believe that everyone has boundless potential and creativity when given the right tools and opportunities, and we are hoping to unearth this skillset amongst senior citizens, who are often left behind in an increasingly digital world. Through the OPPO Reno10 Pro+, the senior citizen generation can develop their interest in photography, which will allow them to snap precious moments with their family and friends,” said OPPO’s Marketing Manager, Monica Qin.

    The OPPO Reno10 Pro+ takes ultra-clear pictures in any and every situation, all thanks to the help of its industry-leading flagship camera system, enabling senior citizens to capture natural and intimate portraits with their family and friends without having to compromise on quality.

    Capturing the essence of portrait photography, the senior citizens were able to snap precious moments using the OPPO Reno10 Pro+’s 64MP telephoto portrait and Pro Portrait Mode, which greatly enhanced the portrait-taking experience.

    For Wan Farhah, age 61, the workshop masterclass is one way she is able to explore boundless creativity and pursue a hobby or interest that is near and dear to her.

    “The OPPO Golden Photography workshop gave us a good understanding of how to use the telephoto portrait camera on our smartphones. I had so much fun, especially during the walkabout tour, that I wish the session was a little longer. I will be on the lookout for the next workshop, and this time, hopefully we will also be able to learn about landscape photography and other aspects of photography since my husband and I like to travel and take pictures of the scenery and the diverse cultures, said Wan Farhah.

                     

    Through its OPPO Golden Photography workshop, OPPO solidifies its role as a technological frontrunner and continuously reinforces its dedication to creating experiences that bridge generations through innovation. The workshop underscores OPPO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of age, is inspired to harness the power of technology and innovation to unlock their fullest potential, one portrait photo at a time.

    “The thing about senior citizens is that as we grow older, we feel ourselves becoming increasingly irrelevant, so when companies like OPPO conduct programs like these, it draws us back in and makes us feel worthy and energized. We believe we are still capable of learning new things, and this is a eureka moment for us. I’m impressed with the level of openness to share and the hands-on sessions OPPO has put together for us. Engaging us senior citizens is a good initiative from OPPO, and I hope there is continuity to such programs, as it helps keep us seniors updated in the increasingly digitalized world,” said Raveendran Subramaniam, age 72.

     

    More ways for senior citizen customers to enjoy OPPO-exclusive rewards

    In line with its ambition to digitally equip senior citizens, OPPO offered participants of the workshop a smartphone voucher worth RM66 in conjunction with the 66th National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations. The complimentary voucher provides them with more opportunities to experience OPPO’s range of smartphone products.

    In addition, OPPO is making it easier for senior citizens to enjoy exclusive rewards to enhance their digital lifestyle. From September 14 to September 16, 2023, all customers, including OPPO’s senior citizen customers, can look forward to after-sales deals, including:

    • RM20 Touch & Go Recharge Codes
      Upon completion of mobile maintenance, OPPO users are invited to share their service experience, snap a photo with the national flag, and share the image on social media, tagging OPPO Care’s Facebook page. Customers need only show proof of participation to OPPO’s customer service center staff to earn the RM20 Touch & Go Recharge Codes.
    • OPPO Care PWP Discounts
      During the campaign period, OPPO customers can enjoy OPPO Care PWP extra discounts (30% off) to purchase warranties for their new devices and accessories.
    • Accessory PWP
      Seniors need not worry about having a smartphone that runs low on battery again, as both OPPO users and non-users who send in their phones for repair will be entitled to a discounted PWP price on Fast Charge and Non-Fast Charge Data Cables (RM29) and 65W as well as 80W Fast Chargers (RM99).
    • Free mobile phone disinfection and cleaning
      In order to ensure that senior citizens enjoy a pleasant experience using their smartphones, OPPO has introduced a complimentary mobile phone disinfection and cleaning service for its customers. Users can walk into OPPO stores to consult the customer service center staff and request assistance in disinfecting and cleaning products during the campaign period.
    • Free original phone case
      Seniors can enjoy an additional level of security for their smartphones and show off their personalities with a complimentary original phone case, which can be obtained at OPPO’s customer service centers.

     

    Senior citizens who want to learn more about how to navigate some questions they may have about their smartphones are encouraged to join the O-Class, which is organized by OPPO. This dedicated space offers assistance for third-party software issues, daily maintenance, and care tailored specifically for seniors.

    The session will be held on September 19 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at My OPPO Space, IOI City Mall. The session is open to all senior citizens, and limited slots are available. Senior citizens who are interested in joining can scan the QR code below and register their interest now!

    For more information about OPPO, kindly visit https://www.oppo.com/my/.

  • FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF NATIONAL ZOO VISITORS, SURAU ABU HURAIRAH OFFICIALLY OPENS

    Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (the Bank) has formally unveiled the freshly reconstructed Surau Abu Hurairah at Malaysia’s National Zoo (Zoo Negara) today.

    This surau construction project was completed with the collaboration of the Ministry of Defense (MINDEF), the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), and the Malaysian Zoological Society. The project’s goal was to provide a fully equipped, comfortable, and easily accessible place of worship for the visitors and staff of Zoo Negara. Construction work began on January 16 and was completed on March 16, 2023. The newly rebuilt Surau opened on June 29, coinciding with the Hari Raya Aidiladha holiday.

    The surau was named after a companion of Prophet Muhammad SAW, Abu Hurairah, known for his kindness towards animals. Abu Hurairah was chosen to inspire the community and zoo visitors to emulate his admirable qualities.

    The project’s total cost was RM180,000, of which RM151,377.70 was allocated for rebuilding the premises, while the remaining funds were used to enhance its facilities. The rebuilding of the surau was financed by the bank’s corporate social responsibility funds and donations to Bank Islam’s crowdfunding initiative, Sadaqa House. The initiative showcases the positive impact of Islamic financial instruments, such as charity, waqf, and zakat, on empowering communities and safeguarding the environment.

    Bank Islam Group Chief Executive Officer Mohd Muazzam Mohamed said the bank is honored to join forces with MINDEF, ATM, and the Malaysian Zoological Society in improving and furnishing the facility at the Zoo Negara for the convenience of its visitors and staff.

    “This is important to Bank Islam as Zoo Negara is a major tourist destination and an important wildlife education center in Malaysia. With nearly 600,000 visitors last year, providing comfortable facilities for visitors is very important. Alhamdulillah, Surau Abu Hurairah is now fully equipped with user-friendly features, including facilities for the elderly and disabled,” he said.

    Deputy Secretary General (Management) of MINDEF, Dr. Mohd Bakhari Ismail, said the construction of Surau Abu Hurairah was carried out by 24 members of the 91st Support Regiment Royal Engineers Regiment, led by Lt. Kol Norhejeri Samsudin, Mejar Haziq Abdul Jalal, and Lt. Al Ismail Ahmad.

    “The #JiwaMurni initiative is a secondary responsibility of the ATM in helping the community, especially in the areas of welfare, well-being, and education. We are delighted with this collaboration with Bank Islam and the Malaysian Zoological Society, as it expresses MINDEF and ATM’s empathy and brings us closer to the community,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Malaysian Zoological Society President Dato’ Sr. Zaharin Md Arif expresses his confidence that the newly rebuilt surau will provide comfort and convenience to its visitors.

    “The surau will indirectly attract more visitors to Zoo Negara, allowing them to experience and learn more about the uniqueness of the various wildlife here. We appreciate the assistance and efforts of Bank Islam, MINDEF, and ATM in this meaningful project,” he said.

  • WINNING TWO GOLD AWARDS FOR ITS WORLD-CLASS CARTIER DRONE LIGHT SHOW, 33.3 FLIES HIGH

    At the fourteenth annual edition of the Agency of the Year Awards, fondly known as the Markies Awards, 33.3 (or ‘the Agency’) was named the GOLD winner in two outstanding categories: Most Effective Use (Events) and Most Effective Use (Experiential). The awards were given in recognition of the agency’s world-class execution of the Cartier drone light show in December 2022.

    Formed in 2019 by co-founders Edwin Raj, Lau Hoe Yin (aka Blink), and Zulamran Hilmi with a conjoined mission to push the confines of communication and create impactful forms of storytelling, 33.3 is renowned within the Asian creative industry for producing cutting-edge music videos, especially for Malaysia’s very own global pop R&B export, Yuna, and the President of Malaysian Hip Hop, Joe Flizzow. “This win hits differently because it is a solid indicator that we are more than what the industry, especially our prospects and stakeholders, perceive us to be. In an industry that relies heavily on creativity and innovation, we take pride in delivering exceptional levels of undertaking with every brief, be it music videos or a straight-forward activation request to elevate brand experience,” explains Edwin Raj, 33.3’s co-founder, who started his career as a van driver for local productions and worked his way up to become a much sought-after TV producer known for his progressive ideas.

    The Cartier drone light show was the highlight of the luxury brand’s ‘Into the Wild’ global campaign, designed especially for Malaysia. It was the first project of such scale to

    be held at the iconic KLCC Twin Towers post-pandemic, and 33.3 is the only Malaysian company to have been given the approval to execute a drone light show at the park. For this project, 33.3 partnered with an internationally acclaimed drone solutions company, SKYMAGIC, based in the UK.

    Zulamran, a design, culture, and art enthusiast who’s also a co-founder of this unique homegrown agency, says, “Working closely with such a prestigious luxury brand as Cartier and the international agency Auditore was a fulfilling experience, with key learnings of process, workflow, and protocols to be fulfilled with no room for error”.

    “The process and planning alone took 90 days of detailing—from design, animation, synchronization, application of permits, and relevant approvals, including strategy concerning public safety—and were precisely presented and revised accordingly as per the client’s requirements. This is also the first time KLCC has allowed for such a feat, as the location has been previously designated as a no-fly zone. Though challenged by the storm, we are grateful for the assistance from the Meteorological Department of Malaysia, which skillfully calculated a window of opportunity to fulfill our mission. Ultimately, with the guidance from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia and the Royal Police Force (PDRM), we managed to execute the production safely, flying 300 drones to the beautiful KL skyline to form iconic shapes and designs that represent Cartier’s Into the Wild campaign. Our gratitude also goes out to Auditoire as the agency that gave us the platform, not forgetting the KLCC Management for their continuous support throughout the project “, he added.

    With sustainability being one of the agency’s pillars in its creative practice and approach, the drone light show strictly followed current regulations, adhering to their commitment to environmental responsibility. Zul also mentioned that the best part was hearing and watching the crowd’s reaction every time the drones transformed into different shapes, driving home the idea of ‘experiential’ and ‘elevating brand experience’.

    Perhaps the one thing that unequivocally unifies the three co-founders is their love for music, and with Lau Hoe Yin (better known as Blink) completing the pack, 33.3 stood out as a force to be reckoned with, not just in Malaysia but within the Asian region. Dubbed the Malaysian superstar DJ, which inevitably positioned him as an influencer, Blink prefers to take it all in stride. “33.3 is a product of great teamwork. We may come from different backgrounds, be it our upbringing or professional lives, but it is our mutual respect for each other that is the heart of this agency. In a short span of 4 years, 33.3

    has managed to work on defining projects with renowned global brands such as Cartier, Disney, Marvel, PRADA, Tourism Malaysia, Johor Darul Takzim FC, Bulan Bintang, DefJam, Netflix, and many more. Speaking for both my partners in arms, Edwin and Zul, I believe that the best has yet to come, and until then, we will continue to fill up the skies with drones and, of course, produce amazing music videos”, says Blink unassumingly.

    Aligned with this win and the progressive growth and demand in the content, digital media, and activation industries, 33.3 has seen an incline in revenue of 8–12%. For the record, 33.3 is the first Malaysian company to have executed six highly technical drone light show productions, with two Malaysia Book of Records records broken for the most number of drones used in a light show (up to 350 drones for one particular project). “The Cartier drone light show held the record for a good 5 months before it was replaced with a local company that is all about the moon and the stars, also executed by 33.3,, Edwin gushed and continued, “but maybe that’s a story for another time”. 

    In 2021, 33.3 was the proud recipient of the Markies’ Local Hero Award. Organized by advertising+marketing, the Agency of the Year Awards are designed to measure, reward, and recognize Malaysia’s top-performing marketing and advertising agencies. All entries were evaluated and judged by a panel of experienced marketers and industry experts.

    Follow 33.3 on social media for current updates on the agency’s projects:

    Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X (previously Twitter)

    Or visit 33.3’s website at 33-3.co.

  • GABUNGAN BAND ROCK YANG MANTAP ANTARA RADJA DAN ELLA DALAM SATU PENTAS

    Demam rock yang menggegarkan negara-negara baharu masih belum mereda. Kini, dalam satu pengumuman hebat, band rock Indonesia, Radja, yang dikenali dengan vokalis cemerlang Ian Kasela, gitaris berbakat Moldy Kusnadi, dan drummer ulung Seno Aji, akan bersatu dengan ikon rock Malaysia, Ella, dalam sebuah konsert epik bertajuk ‘LIVE IN CONCERT: RADJA & PENAMPILAN ISTIMEWA ELLA (JUJUR TAKKAN MELUPAKANMU)’ yang bakal menggegarkan ibu kota pada 12 November 2023. Acara ini akan berlangsung mulai jam 7:00 malam di Mega Star Arena, Kuala Lumpur, dan dipersembahkan oleh penganjur konsert Malaysia terkemuka, Orange International Entertainment. Jangan lepaskan peluang menyaksikan gabungan legenda-rock ini dalam satu persembahan yang pastinya tidak akan terlupakan.

    “Rindu rasanya untuk bertemu kembali dengan peminat-peminat di Malaysia setelah sekian lamanya, dan ini bukan kali pertama Radja datang ke Malaysia kerana sudah pun tiba seawal tahun 2004 dan 2005 lagi, dan setiap kali mengadakan persembahan selalunya berjaya,” kongsi Ian.

    Ibarat membuka lembaran baharu, kedatangan Radja pada kali ini lebih istimewa kerana konsert yang bakal diadakan lebih kepada keakraban di antara band dengan juga peminat. “Kami mahukan sebuah konsert yang ‘intimate’ agar peminat berasa lebih dekat, kami juga mahukan sebuah pertunjukan yang ‘sing-along’ dengan kejutan yang sungguh istimewa,” jelas Moldy.

    Bukan sahaja Radja, malah Ratu Rock Negara kita juga bakal beraksi di pentas yang sama. “Ini merupakan idea yang sudah lama diutarakan bahawa kami ingin berkolaborasi dengan Ratu Rock Malaysia iaitu Ella dalam sebuah pentas, dan pihak penganjur konsert iaitu Orange Entertainment International berjaya merealisasikannya.

    “Dua lagu hits Radja ‘Jujur’ dan ‘Takkan Melupakanmu’ nyanyian Ella sangat indah didengar, maka kami gabungkannya lalu menjadi tema buat konsert kali ini disamping menjalin perpaduan muzik di antara Indonesia-Malaysia yang sememangnya akrab sejak dahulu lagi,” kata Seno.

    Sebelum ini, pihak penganjur telah pun mengadakan konsert oleh kumpulan Ungu pada penghujung tahun lepas dengan jayanya dan menerima sambutan yang memberangsangkan, menurut Dato’ Fazli, CEO & Pengasas Orange Entertainment International, “Kami bawakan anda band rock Indonesia termasyhur, Radja dalam sebuah konsert gilang-gemilang bersama Ratu Rock Ella buat tatapan peminat-peminat rock di Malaysia, kami menyahut baik permintaan Radja yang mahukan Ella untuk turut serta bersama-sama mereka di pentas yang sama.

    “Saya berharap peminat rock Indonesia dan Malaysia akan terhibur dan jangan lupa membeli tiket konsert sebelum terlambat.

    Akhiri Ian: “Radja hanya mahu melepaskan rindu bersama peminat-peminat di Malaysia dan mari kita sama-sama ‘enjoy’ pada malam konsert nanti, jumpa anda di Kuala Lumpur!

    Tiket-tiket yang dijual berharga RM168 (Rockzone 1-Jujur), RM148 (Rockzone 2-Tulus), RM528 (VVIP-Cinderella), RM238 (Platinum-Yakin) dan RM198 (Gold-Benci Bilang Cinta) boleh didapati di ticket2u.com.my.

  • SUPERSUNDAY APPEARED AT KLFW2023 WITH A FRESHLY TIGHT 27-LOOK COLLECTION CALLED “THE RUNWAY” AND ANNOUNCED THE APPEARANCE OF RAFFIQ CORBIN AS THEIR NEW CO-CREATIVE DIRECTOR.

    In conjunction with Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week 2023 (KLFW23), SUPERSUNDAY presented a strong 27-look collection aptly titled The Runway on August 27, 2023 (Sunday), at the InterContinental Hotel Grand Ballroom in Kuala Lumpur. SUPERSUNDAY is one of Malaysia’s leading streetwear brands. Zulkifli Salleh, alias Bob, the company’s founder and creative director, delegated entire creative responsibility for the collection’s conception and production to Raffiq Corbin, the brand’s co-creative director, this year.

    The 28-year-old KLite hailing from Taman Melati, KL, has been working with SUPERSUNDAY since March 2020. A true streetwear enthusiast, Raffiq is also an accomplished rapper and dancer who is very much plugged in with fashion’s global changes. The Runway as a collection is a true testament to his love for the culture, the street, and its community, based on his background of having lived in Kuala Lumpur all his life. “I feel that fashion that does not hit the street rarely has emotion. Clothes are meant to connect and communicate. It feels wild and truly engaging for us every time we see someone rocking their pieces from any of the SUPERSUNDAY collections walking down the street doing their everyday business. It’s the pinnacle of when ideas meet their intended audience, especially when they are done right”, says Raffiq.

    The Runway took Three (3) months to be completed. True to form, the collection showcased its collaboration with Two (2) well-known brands namely

    e-sports platform MP/Mobile Legends and homegrown menswear label Meg KL. Though Raffiq was put in the driver’s seat, Bob played mentor and guided Raffiq through the process to ensure that the collection was completed in time for KLFW.

    According to Bob, “I am very pleased to welcome and congratulate Raffiq as the Co-Creative Director of SUPERSUNDAY’s collections. As a long-time fan of the brand, he encapsulates the spirit of SUPERSUNDAY to its core, and as an employee, he is the perfect spokesperson. Though young, he has street smarts and first-hand access to the streetwear culture and community, which makes him the best option for the new role. As witnessed by many today, I trust that I have made the right choice”. 

    This partnership, encompassing all creative facets of the SUPERSUNDAY label, opens a new dialogue between both parties of different generations. “Locally and regionally, SUPERSUNDAY has gained a reputable level of brand equity, and it is my task to take this to the future. Creatively, I am experimenting with new design elements, challenging the norms of streetwear. There are looks that are more fitted to the body and could take you from a casual day to a more formal evening function, providing our customers with new color options and product innovation, like the introduction of armor commonly used in martial arts and self-defense sports as accessories.

    “In terms of business strategy, I would like to announce that this collection is available to be purchased immediately after the show—literally taking The Runway to the streets. Adding to this, we are currently amplifying our brand reach through various digital platforms, so no one could say that they have never heard of SUPERSUNDAY because we are here to stay and represent”, quips Raffiq.

    Follow SUPERSUNDAY via these social media platforms to receive updated and current news on the brand:

    Facebook: SUPER SUNDAY STORE

    Instagram: @supersundaystore.os

    Twitter: SUPER SUNDAY STORE

    Tik Tok: @supersundaystore.os

    YouTube: Super Sunday

  • PRIOR TO THE VIVO V29 5G’S OFFICIAL LAUNCH IN MALAYSIA, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS UNIQUE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE IT.

    Prior to its official release, Malaysians now have the opportunity to take part in an exclusive preview of the Vivo V29 5G, the newest member of the company’s V series, which stands out for its eye-catching Starry Purple color. Visit the vivo concept shop at Pavilion Bukit Jalil on September 16 if you want to be among the first to use the vivo V29 5G. Take advantage of this fantastic chance.

    The upcoming Vivo V29 5G is poised to captivate Malaysians with its alluring aesthetics and photography capabilities. Boasting a mesmerizing Starry Purple gradient inspired by the Milky Way, the Vivo V29 5G makes a unique fashion statement in smartphone design. It incorporates an impressive 9 million magnetic particles on the phone’s surface, crafting a sparkling Milky Way pattern that truly stands out.

    Apart from that, Vivo has upgraded the aura light functionality, initially introduced in the Vivo V27 series, for the upcoming Vivo V29 5G. With an extensive aura light display built into the Vivo V series, the Aura Light 2.0 in the Vivo V29 5G incorporates a Smart Color Temperature Adjustment feature. This feature aids in capturing exceptional nighttime portraits by automatically adapting to the ambient lighting, and users also have the flexibility to manually adjust it to suit their preferences.

    Experience the Vivo V29 5G firsthand and learn photography techniques from professional photographer Najmuddin Muif at the Vivo Concept Store, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, on September 16th, starting at 1 p.m.

    Save the date to be the first to witness Vivo V29 5G in Malaysia and explore its remarkable features with us. Stay tuned to Vivo Malaysia’s official Facebook page and Vivo Malaysia’s official website for more updates.

  • Mr.Player Special Edition: A Collaboration Between Malaysia and Taiwan in Production

    A new special project for the Taiwanese reality game show “Mr. Player” has been developed in partnership between Taiwan TV Station, Sanlih E-Television (SET), China Television Company (CTV), and 8TV, the No. 1 Chinese channel in Malaysia. In celebration of 8TV’s 20th anniversary, this partnership was shot in both Taiwan and Malaysia. Four 8TV hosts, Rickman Chia, Orange Tan, Natalie Ng, and Ash Lu, took part in the recording of the show for the first time, giving it a fresh new energy.

    This is a major milestone for Malaysia’s leading Chinese-language television channel, known for its high-quality localized content that nurtures and provides a steady platform for local talents. This collaboration is sure to take 8TV’s content to a brand new level while also providing opportunities for their home-grown talents to gain valuable experience and exposure.

    Resorts World Genting and GINVERA, as partners, have brought together celebrities from Taiwan and Malaysia for this special project, which will officially premiere on 8TV every Sunday night at 9:00 p.m. beginning October 29th. The ‘Mr.Player’ Exclusive Partnership ceremony was held on September 5, where the three hosts, Jacky Wu, Kid Lin, and Ken Hsieh, led a group of artists in making appearances and sharing interesting shooting stories with the media.

    In conjunction with this project, Rickman Chia and Orange Tan traveled to Pingtung, Taiwan, last month and completed the first half of the filming alongside Taiwanese artists including Jason Chung, Gary Tang, Win Feng, Jupiter, Wenny Lin, and Zoe Hu. Last week, the program shifted to Genting Highlands and other locations in Malaysia to continue filming. Natalie Ng and Ash Lu from 8TV have also joined the guest lineup. Other artists who participated in the recording include Malaysian singer Andrew Tan, Jess Lee, Kaia Lee, and three Taiwanese artists, Dino Lee, Patty Wu, and Pan Ying Chu.

    This is the second time Team ‘Mr.Player’ has visited Malaysia this year, following their recording trip to Ipoh, Perak, in July. Over the past few years, the program team has traveled across Malaysia many times, including to Terengganu, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah, and other states for filming. The program’s format involves the hosts and guests splitting into two teams, one black and one yellow. They engage in competitive tasks, with the winners receiving rewards and the losers facing terrifying punishments.

    ‘Mr.Player’ has performed exceptionally well in terms of ratings and word-of-mouth since its broadcast, earning the love of audiences in Taiwan and Malaysia. Besides its diverse range of game content, the show’s lineup of guests often becomes a hot topic of discussion among viewers. Notably, the program received the “Most Popular Variety Show’’ award at the 2022 Taiwan Golden Bell Awards. Additionally, Jacky Wu and Kid Lin have also been honored twice as the “Best Host in a Reality or Game Show” at the Golden Bell Awards for their roles in this show. 8TV is committed to building a strong local entertainment platform for the industry and will also continue to collaborate with other industry players to create even more exciting and innovative content.

  • BY COLLABORATING WITH THE RENOWNED AKBAR TEA, QSR TRADING VENTURES EXPANDS ITS BEVERAGE OFFERINGS.

    Akbar Tea, a high-end tea brand, has joined QSR Trading’s inventory of products, and the company is overjoyed to announce this. This is a crucial turning point because Akbar Tea is the first beverage brand that QSR Trading has acquired.

    Starting on September 12, 2023, Akbar Tea will grace the shelves of leading supermarkets and hypermarkets nationwide, in addition to being made available for purchase via the QSRT Mart at https://www.qsrtmart.com.my/. This move comes as Malaysia becomes the newest market for Akbar Tea, which is already present in 100 countries worldwide.

    The initial offerings in Malaysia will feature two distinct variants of black tea (Red, White, and Gold Black Tea) and one variant of green tea. These teas will be available in two convenient pack sizes of 100 and 25 teabag packs, respectively, catering to different consumer preferences.

    Each of the three Akbar tea variants presents unique properties that cater to different tastebuds. The Red and White Tea, cultivated in the lush mountains of Sri Lanka 2,000 feet above sea level, boasts a deep red color with strong and smooth flavors. The Gold Black Tea, grown between 4,500 and 6,000 feet above ground in pristine air, offers a rich and robust flavor. Meanwhile, the green tea hails from the finest tea gardens of Yunnan and Jiangxi in eastern China, delighting with its lingering sweet taste and potent antioxidants.

    QSR Trading General Manager Chan Chong Thye said, “Akbar Tea embodies the changing perception of tea as a sensual and wellness drink, particularly among younger consumers.

    “The decision to introduce Akbar Tea in Malaysia comes at a strategic time when the tea market in the country is on a steady growth trajectory.

    “According to Nielsen IQ, the black tea category has seen 13.8% value growth and 7.5% volume growth as of year-to-date (YTD) March 2023. As such, QSR Trading aims to make its mark in this burgeoning segment by offering premium-quality tea at affordable prices, providing a compelling choice for tea enthusiasts,” he said.

    Akbar Tea is produced in the only carbon-inset factory in the world, boasting unmatched renewable energy credits in Sri Lanka and the region. Manufactured by Akbar Brothers (PVT) LTD, a pioneer in the tea industry established in 1969, Akbar Tea is a testament to the rich heritage and experience of its founding family, who have been part of the tea industry for over 100 years.

    Commenting on the brand’s entry into the Malaysian market, Akbar Brothers’ director Mansoor Akbarally stated, “We are optimistic that our tea will grow from strength to strength with this exciting partnership with QSR Trading. With a strong and experienced partner by our side, we look forward to embracing the growing shift towards ethically sourced teas and complete supply chain transparency.”

    The prices for Akbar Tea products in Malaysia range from RM4.60 to RM5.55 per box for the 25 teabag pack and RM12.60 to RM18.55 for the 100 teabag pack, making them accessible to tea enthusiasts across the country.

  • ICWC ’23 WILL USE CULTURAL DIVERSITY TO SHAPE MALAYSIA’S TOURISM FUTURE & GLOBAL BUSINESS

     

    The International Conference and Exhibition on World Cultures 2023 (ICWC ’23) got off to a spectacular start with the spectacular “A Taste of ICWC” event, which was officiated by Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia. The event, which was put on by UDS Media Sdn. Bhd., offered a gripping preview of the major conference in November and placed a heavy emphasis on promoting business through travel and intercultural cooperation.

    ‘A Taste of ICWC’ went beyond showcasing cultural diversity; it immersed attendees in a global tapestry of cultures. Representatives from countries such as New Zealand, Fiji, Australia, Cuba, Ukraine, and more engaged directly with visitors through interactive exhibition booths meticulously designed to convey the essence of their respective cultures, laying the foundation for cross-cultural partnerships.

    Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah said, “ICWC ‘23 serves as a dynamic platform for economic and cultural exchange. It provides countries with an invaluable chance to promote their tourism, trade, and investment opportunities. By showcasing their cultural treasures, nations can attract travelers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts who seek to explore and engage with the wonders they have to offer.”

    Throughout the event, guests enjoyed a cultural showcase featuring captivating performances, including Indonesia’s Angklung Musical, Cuba’s Flamenco Dance, the Dominican Republic’s Bachata Dance, Malaysia’s Dikir Barat performance, the Istana Budaya Orchestra Musical, and an ‘Azizah’ ballad performed by renowned impersonator P. Radhi, celebrated for his portrayal of the beloved, late Tan Sri P. Ramlee.

    In addition to this, ‘A Taste of ICWC’ introduced its first-ever ‘Aziza Cultural Excellence Award’ presented to the honorary P. Ramlee, received by his granddaughter, Najua Nasir, in recognition of his significant contributions to Malaysia’s cultural heritage.

     

     

    Looking ahead, ICWC ’23 is poised to be a transformative event, featuring innovative strategies that aim to catalyze economic growth and promote global understanding. These strategies include onsite Cultural Immersion programs, such as guided tours and workshops for authentic cultural experiences; B2B matchmaking to connect local businesses with international delegates to expand reach or new markets; and specially crafted Cultural Tourism Packages in collaboration with local travel agencies that will offer curated experiences, including visits to cultural landmarks and culinary adventures, aligning with the conference’s theme of cross-cultural exchange.

    Mr. Azmi Mustapha, President of ICWC, said, “These events are an invitation to promote culture as a tourism asset. Culture is not static; it is a living, breathing entity that enriches our lives and holds the potential to drive economic growth. By showcasing our cultural heritage, we attract travelers seeking authentic experiences, leading to tourism revenue and sustainable development.”

    “ICWC and “A Taste of ICWC” serve as reminders that culture can be a bridge, not a barrier. In an interconnected world, cultural exchange fosters understanding, respect, and collaboration. It builds bridges that connect people and nations, transcending language and politics. It is through ctry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC), Yayasan Hasan, and partnered with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak.ulture that we can find common ground and work together to address global challenges,” he added.

    Visitors and delegates at ICWC ‘23 will discover exciting prospects to enhance their country’s visibility, establish valuable connections with new business collaborators, and drive business expansion within the tourism sector across the world. In this regard, UDS Media warmly welcomes the participation of more local and international businesses to seize the growth prospects available at ICWC ‘23.

    For more information to become an exhibitor or attend ICWC ‘23, visit: https://www.icwc.globon/.

     

  • SAMBUTLAH JEMPUTAN ISTIMEWA: SERTAI FIERSA BESARI DAN PEMINAT ‘GALAU’ DALAM PENGALAMAN KONSERT BERJALAN MUNDUR DI ZEPP KL PADA 12 OKTOBER 2023

    Melampaui bakat muzik dan sasteranya, Fiersa Besari telah menciptakan nama sebagai pengaruh budaya di platform media sosial. Kandungan yang autentik dan mudah didekati beliau menghulurkan pengaruhnya kepada pelbagai lapisan masyarakat, menjadikannya figura penting dalam membentuk budaya digital kontemporari.

    Fiersa Besari kelahiran Bandung, Indonesia berusia 39 tahun bukan hanya seorang penyanyi, tetapi juga seorang pencipta lagu yang berbakat. Dalam perjalanan muziknya, beliau telah melahirkan lagu-lagu yang menjadi himpunan kenangan untuk banyak individu. Hits seperti “Waktu Yang Salah” dan “Celengan Rindu” telah membawa kesenangan dan nostalgia kepada pendengar di seluruh dunia.

    Legasi muziknya akan terus memberi inspirasi kepada generasi akan datang dan memperkukuhkan kedudukannya sebagai salah seorang tokoh paling dihormati dalam industri muzik.

    Menghargai perjalanan karier muziknya yang memberi inspirasi kepada ramai orang, Seraya Group berbesar hati membawakan konsert Pertunjukan Tunggal Fiersa Besari Berjalan Mundur yang bakal berlangsung di Zepp Kuala Lumpur pada 12 Oktober depan.

    Kemunculan kedua Fiersa, selepas kejayaan penampilan sulungnya di pentas yang sama tahun lalu bakal membawa peminat mengembara ke sebuah persembahan yang sarat nuansa nostalgia dan apresiasi terhadap karya puitisnya.

    Fiersa berkata, konsert tunggalnya itu akan membawa peminat mengimbau perjalanan karier seninya sepanjang 14 tahun menerusi pilihan lagu yang membantu memperkasakan namanya dalam industri muzik Nusantara.

    “Ia termasuk lagu pilihan peminat yang jarang saya bawakan dalam persembahan pentas biasa, Curahan idea dan pembabitan semua dalam menjayakan konsert ini sangat memberi erti buat saya.

    “Secara peribadi, konsert ini sudah lama saya dan mungkin juga anda semua nanti-nantikan. Bertahap, kita jadikan konsert ini sebagai perjalanan indah kita bersama,” katanya.

    Untuk penampilan terbarunya di Zepp KL nanti, Fiersa tidak bersendirian, sebaliknya dia turut ditemani dua penyanyi muda berbakat besar yang sedang mencipta pengaruh tersendiri iaitu Feby Putri dan Aisha Retno.

    “Kemunculan dua penyanyi hebat ini membangkitkan lagi keterujaan saya untuk beraksi di pentas Zepp KL nanti. Saya sudah tidak sabar lagi untuk berkongsi pentas dengan penyanyi berkarisma seperti Feby dan Aisha.

    “Kembali ke Kuala Lumpur dan dapat berdiri di hadapan peminat adalah penghargaan terbesar buat saya. Sokongan tidak berbelah bahagi dan keterujaan peminat memberikan saya inspirasi untuk mempamerkan persembahan yang tidak mungkin dilupakan,” katanya bersemangat.

    Dengan lontaran vokal yang sarat emosi dan jiwa, Fiersa bakal mengheret emosi penonton untuk ‘galau’ bersama dengan pilihan 18 lagu popular menerusi keunikan gabungan muzik pop indie, folk dan alternatif yang membentuk identiti nyanyiannya.

    Pastinya himpunan lagu yang pernah mendaki carta popular seperti April, Waktu Yang Salah dan Celengan Rindu, Fiersa bakal melarutkan emosi peminat dengan keindahan karya yang mempertahankan namanya sebagai pemuzik.

    “Setiap lagu akan saya bawakan dengan sepenuh hati kerana saya mahu konsert Pertunjukan Tunggal Fiersa Besari Berjalan Mundur nanti membekas pengalaman bermakna buat peminat.

    “Janji saya akan ada kejutan dan kelainan pada susunan muzik dalam beberapa lagu kegemaran ramai, namun jati diri Fiersa sebagai penyanyi dan pemuzik tidak sesekali dipinggirkan,” katanya.

    Sementara itu, Ketua Pemasaran Seraya Group, Intan Dhenisya Putri berkata, sebagai tanda penghargaan atas kesetiaan peminat Fiersa, mereka menawarkan diskaun eksklusif 30% bagi pembelian tiket menerusi www.ticket2u.com.my.

    Tiket boleh diperoleh pada harga RM159 (Runtuh), RM198 (Garis Terdepan), RM301 (Juara Kedua) dan RM3,403 (Rumah – VVIP Box untuk lapan orang).

    “Peminat hanya perlu menggunakan kod promo: “FIERSALIVEINKL” ketika membuat pembelian menerusi ticket2u.com.my untuk menikmati diskaun 30% yang ditawarkan.

    “Justeru, jangan lepaskan peluang hebat ini untuk menyaksikan persembahan Fiersa bersama Aisha dan Feby pada harga berhemat. Kami percaya kolaborasi istimewa ini menawarkan kembara pengalaman muzik melangkaui sempadan yang mempesonakan dan tidak terlupakan semua peminat,” katanya.

    Layari Instagram Seraya Live (@serayalive) dan saluran media sosial rasmi Fiersa Besari untuk mendapatkan maklumat terkini mengenai konsert Pertunjukan Tunggal Fiersa Besari Berjalan Mundur.