MalaysianUpdates

Category: Awareness

  • The Key to Digestive Balance in Modern Living Insights from Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao

    The Key to Digestive Balance in Modern Living Insights from Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao

    In the pursuit of better health, many often believe that significant change requires drastic measures. However, according to Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, true wellness often begins with the simplest and most consistent habits. Through her years of experience as a nutritionist, Dr. Sae-Lao has found that improvements in energy, sleep, and focus often stem from one key area the gut.

    Reconnecting with traditional foods may hold the answer to restoring balance within our digestive systems. For centuries, Asian diets have naturally supported gut health through wholesome, nutrient-dense meals. Yet, modern lifestyles have shifted away from these traditions. Convenience often wins over nutrition as rice bowls are replaced with fast food, fibre-rich vegetables give way to processed snacks, and herbal broths are substituted with sugary drinks.

    This dietary transformation is now showing its effects. Across Asia, cases of digestive discomfort such as bloating, acid reflux, and irritable bowel symptoms are on the rise. The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) reported that in 2023, diseases of the digestive system ranked among the top ten causes of hospitalisation, making up 6.43 percent of total cases. Alarmingly, these conditions were also among the top ten causes of death in both public and private hospitals.

    Dr. Sae-Lao’s message is not one of fear but of awareness. She urges individuals to take a moment to reflect on what their bodies truly need and recognise how small, consistent choices can make a significant difference to long-term wellbeing. The digestive system plays a much greater role than many realise. Known as the body’s “second brain”, the gut communicates directly with the brain to regulate digestion, immunity, metabolism, and even mental health. It is home to a vast ecosystem of microorganisms that help break down food, produce essential vitamins, and guard against harmful bacteria.

    Unfortunately, many modern eating habits disrupt this delicate balance. Diets high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats can harm the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation and digestive discomfort. Over time, this imbalance can contribute to more serious chronic conditions. Dr. Sae-Lao believes that the solution lies in understanding and honouring what our bodies truly need, often through traditions that have sustained generations before us.

    Adopting healthier habits does not mean overhauling one’s lifestyle overnight. It is about making practical, intentional adjustments that fit within a modern routine. Asian diets, rooted in centuries of wisdom and now supported by science, offer valuable guidance. Meals rich in vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods provide essential nutrients that support digestion and heart health. Cooking methods like boiling, grilling, steaming, or stir-frying help preserve nutrients and reduce unnecessary fats. Probiotic-rich foods such as kimchi, miso, yogurt, pickles, and kombucha can strengthen the immune system and promote a balanced gut. Likewise, herbs and spices commonly used in Asian cooking ginger, turmeric, garlic, and fennel not only enhance flavour but also support digestion naturally.

    For those who find it challenging to meet their daily fibre needs through diet alone, Herbalife’s Mixed Fibres with Inulin Powder Drink offers a simple and convenient way to increase fibre intake. With a blend of soluble and insoluble fibres, it promotes digestive health and encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to a sense of overall wellness.

    Mindful eating, another hallmark of Asian food culture, is equally important in maintaining gut balance. Eating slowly, chewing thoroughly, and appreciating each meal allows the body to properly activate digestive enzymes and improve nutrient absorption. Reducing distractions during meals and tuning into natural hunger cues help regulate digestion and promote a healthy relationship with food.

    Every individual’s digestive system is unique, and studies show that different people respond differently to the same foods depending on their gut bacteria. A personalised approach to nutrition can therefore be more effective than a one-size-fits-all diet, helping individuals make choices that support their body’s specific needs and foster long-term health.

    Dr. Sae-Lao encourages everyone to merge the wisdom of traditional diets with modern practicality. Simple habits such as planning weekly meals, preparing ingredients in advance, and staying mindful of food choices can help reduce stress and ensure healthier eating, even on the busiest days. Supporting these habits with daily actions such as drinking enough water, engaging in physical activity, and prioritising quality sleep can further enhance digestive and overall health.

    Better health does not begin with grand gestures but with small, steady steps. Replacing one meal with a nourishing option, taking a moment to enjoy each bite, and listening to how your body responds can create meaningful change over time. As Dr. Sae-Lao reminds us, “Your gut can lead the way, just listen closely.”

  • Syria Care Rancang Salur Bantuan Pakaian Musim Sejuk ke Syria Melalui Dua Kontena Tahun Ini

    Syria Care Rancang Salur Bantuan Pakaian Musim Sejuk ke Syria Melalui Dua Kontena Tahun Ini

    Ketika suhu mula menurun menandakan ketibaan musim sejuk di Syria, pertubuhan kemanusiaan Syria Care terus komited meneruskan usaha membantu mereka yang terkesan dengan pelancaran kempen Winter Aid 13.0. Inisiatif ini bertujuan memberikan bantuan kepada komuniti rentan di Syria serta pelarian Syria di Lubnan yang bakal berdepan dengan cabaran musim sejuk yang sering kali membawa ancaman terhadap kesihatan, keselesaan dan nyawa.

    Kempen Winter Aid 13.0 yang berlangsung dari 26 September hingga 31 Disember 2025 memberi tumpuan kepada penyediaan tiga jenis bantuan utama iaitu bahan bakar seperti diesel, kayu api dan briket zaitun serta pakaian musim sejuk. Bantuan ini diharap dapat mengurangkan beban rakyat Syria yang terpaksa menghadapi suhu ekstrem tanpa kelengkapan yang mencukupi.

    Salah satu inisiatif utama di bawah kempen ini ialah projek “Warm Their Winter”, program pengumpulan pakaian musim sejuk yang telah menjadi kempen tahunan Syria Care sejak tahun 2013. Projek ini berlangsung dari 22 hingga 26 Oktober 2025 di Dewan Kiambang, Seksyen 7, Shah Alam. Melalui projek ini, Syria Care menyasarkan pengumpulan pelbagai barangan keperluan musim sejuk termasuk pakaian tebal, jaket, selimut, kasut dan barangan asas lain yang amat diperlukan oleh rakyat Syria.

    Sejak kempen ini dimulakan, sebanyak 17 kontena bantuan telah berjaya dihantar ke Syria dan Lubnan. Untuk tahun ini, Syria Care mensasarkan penghantaran dua kontena bersaiz 40 kaki yang akan memuatkan sekitar 1,584 kotak bantuan dengan setiap kotak seberat antara 10 hingga 15 kilogram. Bantuan tersebut akan dihantar melalui jalan laut dan dijangka tiba di Pelabuhan Latakia, Syria dalam tempoh 50 hari.

    Bantuan kali ini dijangka memberi manfaat kepada lebih 12,000 individu, menjadikan jumlah keseluruhan penerima manfaat sejak 2013 kini mencecah kira-kira 250,000 orang. Setiap tahun, inisiatif ini bukan sahaja menjadi bukti komitmen kemanusiaan rakyat Malaysia, tetapi juga simbol solidariti dan kasih sayang terhadap mereka yang terpinggir akibat konflik yang tidak berkesudahan.

    Selain memastikan kehangatan dan keselesaan, kempen Winter Aid 13.0 juga memainkan peranan penting dalam melindungi nyawa daripada ancaman kesejukan melampau yang sering meragut nyawa golongan rentan, terutamanya kanak-kanak dan warga emas. Usaha ini turut mendapat sokongan Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA), Majlis Perwakilan Penduduk Zon 3 (MPP Zon 3), serta kerjasama rakan strategik seperti HUMAM Relief dan Pertubuhan Ihsanku Malaysia.

    Bagi melaksanakan keseluruhan projek ini, Syria Care menyasarkan kutipan dana sebanyak RM150,000 bagi menampung kos logistik dan operasi. Oleh itu, orang ramai, syarikat korporat serta pertubuhan bukan kerajaan (NGO) digalakkan untuk turut sama menjayakan misi kemanusiaan ini.

    Pengerusi Syria Care, Siti Sakinah binti Meor Omar Baki berkata, musim sejuk di Syria bukan sekadar perubahan cuaca tetapi satu ujian kehidupan bagi mereka yang kehilangan tempat tinggal dan keselamatan. Melalui kempen ini, Syria Care ingin menyampaikan bukan sahaja bantuan pakaian dan keperluan asas, tetapi juga rasa kasih sayang dan harapan daripada rakyat Malaysia kepada saudara mereka di Syria.

    Setiap sumbangan, tidak kira besar atau kecil, membawa makna yang amat besar kepada mereka yang sedang berjuang untuk terus bertahan menghadapi kesejukan tanpa perlindungan mencukupi. Orang ramai yang ingin menyumbang boleh berbuat demikian melalui akaun Maybank Syria Care 562106653575 atau melalui laman sesawang rasmi di https://syriacare.org.my/winteraid/.

  • Huawei Malaysia Partners with OpenRe to Power Malaysia’s Future with Battery Energy Storage Solutions

    Huawei Malaysia Partners with OpenRe to Power Malaysia’s Future with Battery Energy Storage Solutions

    Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Huawei Malaysia) and Open Re Sdn Bhd (OpenRE) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI)-integrated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) solutions in Malaysia. The partnership aims to address the nation’s increasing energy demand and support its renewable energy goals by providing sustainable and intelligent energy management systems for businesses and industries.

    The collaboration focuses on delivering advanced BESS solutions to help manage Maximum Demand (MD) scenarios, which occur during peak electricity consumption periods when power usage and costs are at their highest. Through this partnership, Huawei Malaysia and OpenRE intend to establish a sustainable, AI-driven BESS ecosystem that enables commercial and industrial users to enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and contribute to the nation’s decarbonisation agenda and sustainable growth.

    Chief Executive Officer of OpenRE, Dr. Lin Horng Sheng, described the partnership as a major step forward in Malaysia’s pursuit of intelligent energy management. He emphasised that combining Huawei’s world-class BESS hardware with OpenRE’s proprietary AI Energy Demand Response (AIE-DR) technology will enable industries to achieve greater efficiency, manage peak demand more effectively, and progress towards carbon-neutral operations. He added that the collaboration is a vital step in building a sustainable energy ecosystem that empowers local industries to thrive during the clean energy transition.

    Vice President of Huawei Malaysia, Digital Power Business, Chong Chern Peng, said that Malaysia’s energy transition depends on the seamless integration of digital technologies and clean power systems. He highlighted that through this partnership, Huawei and OpenRE aim to strengthen the country’s energy-storage value chain and expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy management solutions for a wide range of industries.

    As the technology enabler, Huawei Malaysia will leverage its global expertise and innovation in product manufacturing, technical knowledge, and market supply, delivering its advanced Smart PV and BESS technologies. OpenRE will complement these efforts with its Energy Management System (EMS) AI software, providing technical and business support to end-users to ensure efficient and intelligent energy utilisation.

    Under the terms of the MoU, both companies will collaborate to build a sustainable ecosystem that captures new market opportunities while delivering end-to-end energy management solutions tailored for key industrial sectors. This cooperation is aligned with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which identifies energy storage as a critical enabler in achieving the country’s carbon-neutral target by 2050. The Huawei Malaysia-OpenRE partnership reinforces this vision by empowering industries with energy storage solutions that improve grid flexibility, reliability, and renewable energy integration.

    The signing ceremony took place during the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, held from 15 to 17 October. The MoU was signed by Dr. Teoh Boon Yew, General Manager (Business Development) of OpenRE, and Chong Chern Peng, Vice President of Huawei Malaysia, Digital Power Business. The event was witnessed by Malaysian Green Tech & Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) Board Members YBhg. Dato’ Leong Kin Mun and YBrs. Tuan Haji Ismail bin Mohd Amin, along with Dr. Chong Lee Wai, Chief Technology Officer of OpenRE, and Zhang Xiaoming, Director of Smart PV and ESS, Digital Power Business, Huawei Malaysia.

  • Remaja 14 tahun ditahan selepas kejadian tikam di sekolah Petaling Jaya

    Remaja 14 tahun ditahan selepas kejadian tikam di sekolah Petaling Jaya

    Seorang pelajar perempuan Tingkatan Empat di sebuah sekolah menengah di Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, maut selepas dipercayai ditikam oleh seorang pelajar lelaki Tingkatan Dua dalam kejadian tragis yang berlaku pagi tadi.

    Menurut sumber, insiden berlaku sekitar jam 9.30 pagi apabila suspek dipercayai membawa senjata tajam berupa pisau ke kawasan sekolah sebelum menyerang mangsa. Difahamkan, selain mangsa utama, suspek turut menikam seorang lagi pelajar, namun keadaan mangsa kedua masih belum disahkan pihak berkuasa.

    Ketua Polis Negara, Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, mengesahkan kejadian berlaku di luar kelas dalam kawasan sekolah. Beliau menyifatkan insiden itu sebagai amat menyedihkan dan menuntut siasatan segera bagi mengenal pasti punca sebenar kejadian. Katanya, suspek berusia 14 tahun itu telah ditahan untuk membantu siasatan dan identitinya tidak boleh didedahkan kerana masih di bawah umur.

    Sementara itu, Ketua Polis Daerah Petaling Jaya, Asisten Komisioner Shamsudin Mamat, memaklumkan siasatan awal mendapati terdapat beberapa kesan tikaman pada bahagian badan mangsa. Polis turut merampas dua senjata tajam yang dipercayai digunakan dalam kejadian tersebut. Beliau berkata, jumlah sebenar tikaman akan diketahui selepas laporan bedah siasat dikeluarkan kelak.

    Setakat ini, pihak polis masih menjalankan siasatan terperinci di lokasi kejadian, dan butiran lanjut dijangka diumumkan dalam sidang media khas oleh Ketua Polis Selangor dalam masa terdekat.

    Kredit : Berita Harian

  • Syria Care Perkenal Humam Relief, Kukuhkan Peranan Malaysia di Pentas Kemanusiaan Antarabangsa

    Syria Care Perkenal Humam Relief, Kukuhkan Peranan Malaysia di Pentas Kemanusiaan Antarabangsa

    Syria Care hari ini mencatatkan sejarah penting apabila melancarkan Pertubuhan Amal HUMAM atau HUMAM Relief, sebuah organisasi baharu yang membawa misi kemanusiaan Malaysia ke peringkat global termasuk tanah air sendiri.

    Menurut Pengerusi merangkap Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Syria Care, Siti Sakinah Meor Omar Baki, HUMAM Relief ditubuhkan pada tahun 2024 hasil daripada pengalaman, pengorbanan dan kejayaan Syria Care yang telah berkhidmat lebih sedekad di bumi Syam. Beliau menegaskan bahawa organisasi ini hadir dengan visi lebih luas, bukan sahaja memberikan bantuan kecemasan, tetapi juga membina masa depan yang mampan dan bermaruah untuk masyarakat rentan di seluruh dunia.

    “HUMAM Relief lahir sebagai ‘adik’, tetapi dengan mandat yang lebih luas, ia akan berperanan sebagai ‘abang’ kepada Syria Care. Syria Care akan terus fokus kepada bumi Syam, manakala HUMAM Relief membawa pengalaman itu ke peringkat global. HUMAM Relief percaya bahawa setiap bantuan mesti menghormati identiti, budaya dan maruah komuniti yang dibantu, supaya mereka bukan sekadar hidup tetapi hidup dengan martabat,” ujar beliau.

    Walaupun masih baharu, HUMAM Relief telah mula bergerak ke beberapa negara dengan melaksanakan projek awal seperti pembinaan telaga air bersih di Uganda dan Indonesia, pemulihan rumah yang rosak akibat konflik di Syria serta projek W.A.S.H (Air, Sanitasi dan Kebersihan) di Malaysia. Projek ini memberi tumpuan kepada inisiatif kebersihan wanita dan kesihatan haid melalui kerjasama dengan agensi kerajaan serta badan-badan korporat.

    Siti Sakinah menambah bahawa HUMAM Relief berhasrat untuk berkembang menjadi peneraju dalam misi kemanusiaan dengan memberi tumpuan kepada projek-projek mampan di Malaysia dan juga peringkat antarabangsa. Melalui inovasi, pemerkasaan serta penyelesaian yang lestari, HUMAM Relief mahu melihat komuniti rentan membina semula kehidupan dan memperbaiki taraf hidup.

    Majlis pelancaran turut menyaksikan pengenalan logo baharu Syria Care yang melambangkan aspirasi segar dan kematangan organisasi. Syria Care yang ditubuhkan pada 2012 bermula dari sebuah bilik kecil hasil inisiatif sukarelawan serta bekas pelajar Syria di Malaysia. Diterajui pengasasnya Sheikh Samir Sakka, Syria Care berkembang daripada usaha kecil menjadi sebuah NGO berimpak besar.

    Misi pertamanya pada tahun 2013 diuji dengan tragedi apabila seorang petugas ditembak ketika menjalankan tugas. Namun, peristiwa itu tidak melemahkan semangat, sebaliknya menguatkan tekad mereka untuk terus berjuang. Syria Care didaftarkan secara rasmi pada tahun 2014, menjadi NGO pertama di Malaysia yang khusus membantu krisis kemanusiaan di Syria.

    Sepanjang lebih sedekad, Syria Care telah melaksanakan pelbagai projek termasuk Kampung Malaysia di Idlib yang menempatkan 274 keluarga daripada khemah ke rumah selamat, penajaan hampir 6,000 anak yatim, pembinaan 19 sekolah termasuk sekolah khas anak yatim di Aqrabat, rumah anak yatim dan warga emas Dar As Sakinah di Jisr Al Shughur serta bantuan yang memberi manfaat kepada hampir 6 juta penerima di Malaysia, Syria, Türkiye, Lubnan, Afghanistan, Uganda, Yaman, Nepal dan selatan Thailand. Syria Care juga menjadi NGO Malaysia pertama yang berdaftar secara rasmi di Syria, membolehkan bantuan disalurkan dengan lebih sistematik.

    Dengan kehadiran HUMAM Relief, Syria Care kini lebih fokus kepada bumi Syam termasuk Syria, Palestin dan Lubnan, manakala HUMAM Relief berfungsi sebagai sayap global untuk memperluaskan capaian bantuan. Kedua-dua organisasi ini digerakkan oleh pasukan yang sama dengan semangat yang tidak pernah berubah iaitu semangat kemanusiaan.

    Siti Sakinah turut menegaskan bahawa perjalanan ini tidak akan berhasil tanpa sokongan rakyat Malaysia. Beliau menyatakan bahawa lebih sedekad pengalaman Syria Care membuktikan sumbangan dan doa rakyat Malaysia mampu mengubah kehidupan insan lain. HUMAM Relief adalah kesinambungan daripada kekuatan ini, dan misi ini bukan hanya milik Syria Care atau HUMAM Relief semata-mata tetapi milik semua manusia yang diamanahkan untuk membela sesama insan.

  • Heart Strong: Nourishing the Body, Moving with Purpose, Living Mindfully

    Heart Strong: Nourishing the Body, Moving with Purpose, Living Mindfully

    We live in an era powered by information, with scientific breakthroughs, advancing technology, rising awareness, and economic progress shaping the way we live and care for ourselves. As access to healthcare improves and health-related conversations become more mainstream, one might assume this would translate into fewer health issues. Yet, ironically, cardiovascular health continues to pose a significant challenge in Malaysia. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, in 2023, ischaemic heart disease remained the second leading cause of death, responsible for 15.1 percent of all medically certified deaths.

    As Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, explained, many people still imagine heart disease as an issue that primarily affects older individuals who appear visibly unwell. However, studies indicate that within Asian communities, heart-related concerns are developing at a younger age, sometimes silently and even among those who look fit. Modern work pressures, changing diets, rising stress, and sedentary lifestyles, combined with overlooked health indicators, are quietly impacting our overall well-being and particularly our heart health.

    Understanding how the cardiovascular system works is an important first step toward protecting it. The human heart, though small and roughly the size of a fist, is an extraordinary muscle that powers the entire body. With each beat, it sends oxygen-rich blood to every organ, tissue, and cell while removing waste products such as carbon dioxide.

    In conjunction with World Heart Day on September 29, 2025, it is timely to reflect on some practical habits that can strengthen and protect cardiovascular health. A heart-healthy diet is essential. Choosing whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds ensures a regular supply of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and dietary fiber that support heart function. Incorporating healthy fats, including olive oil, avocado, flaxseed, and fatty fish like salmon or mackerel, provides omega-3 fatty acids that reduce the risk of heart problems. Reducing the consumption of trans fats, saturated fats, sugar, and salt is equally important. Excessive sugar contributes to obesity and diabetes, both of which are significant risk factors for heart disease, while too much salt increases the risk of high blood pressure. Flavorful herbs and spices can be used to replace excess salt without compromising taste.

    Equally vital are lifestyle changes that promote heart health. Staying physically active helps manage weight, improves circulation, and supports the natural production of nitric oxide, a molecule essential for optimal cardiovascular function. Just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each day, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, can make a difference. Alongside activity, ensuring seven to nine hours of quality sleep allows the body to rest, repair, and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

    Avoiding harmful habits is another key factor. Smoking damages the arteries, increases fatty deposits, and significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. Even second-hand smoke can elevate the risk of stroke. While some turn to e-cigarettes in an effort to quit, these too can increase heart-related risks. On a more positive note, quitting smoking at any stage can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Similarly, cutting back on alcohol protects cardiovascular health. Excessive drinking is linked to high blood pressure and obesity, but moderation—such as alternating alcoholic drinks with water or opting for non-alcoholic alternatives—can lessen its impact.

    Stress management also plays a powerful role in protecting the heart. Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure, raise cholesterol, and lead to harmful coping behaviors such as overeating or smoking. It also increases the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which in turn heightens the risk of heart disease. Finding ways to manage stress, whether through yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, or engaging in enjoyable activities, brings both mental balance and measurable physical benefits.

    Monitoring health markers completes the picture of prevention. Regular check-ups to track blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels help catch potential problems early. Today, wearable technology such as smartwatches and fitness trackers makes it easier to monitor heart rate, activity levels, sleep patterns, and other vital signs in real time. These data points, when shared with healthcare professionals, can provide valuable insights, particularly for individuals at higher risk.

    In our fast-paced world, the steps to better heart health do not need to be complicated. Whether by making mindful food choices, engaging in regular movement, reducing harmful habits, managing stress, or keeping a close watch on key health metrics, every effort counts. Even the smallest changes today can pave the way for a healthier heart and a stronger future.

  • NEX Berganding Bahu Dengan Fattah Amin: Solidariti Palestin Jadi Tumpuan

    NEX bersama pelakon dan usahawan terkenal, Fattah Amin, dengan penuh rendah hati telah melancarkan kempen solidariti khas “NEX & Fattah Amin Bersama Palestin” di Masjid Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin. Inisiatif ini bukan sekadar satu usaha kutipan dana, tetapi sebuah gerakan untuk menyatukan rakyat Malaysia melalui keperluan harian, dengan mesej bahawa walaupun tindakan kecil seperti membeli sebotol air mampu membawa makna besar serta memberi harapan kepada rakyat Palestin.

    Kempen ini akan digerakkan secara besar-besaran pada 17 Oktober 2025, dengan matlamat mengajak rakyat Malaysia membeli 500,000 botol NEX dalam tempoh 24 jam. Sebanyak RM0.50 daripada setiap botol akan disalurkan kepada usaha bantuan di Gaza melalui Cinta Gaza Malaysia (CGM), dengan sasaran kutipan kolektif mencecah RM250,000. Inspirasi kempen ini turut hadir daripada kisah menyentuh hati rakyat Mesir yang baru-baru ini menghantar botol berisi makanan ke Gaza melalui laut, setiap satunya membawa bekalan serta harapan. Bagi NEX, botol air mereka juga kini dilihat sebagai simbol solidariti, bukan sekadar sumber hidrasi.

    Pemilihan bulan Oktober untuk pelaksanaan kempen ini juga mempunyai makna yang mendalam. Ia adalah simbolik memperingati tragedi 7 Oktober 2023 yang menyayat hati, namun melalui inisiatif ini, tarikh tersebut diharapkan dapat diubah menjadi sebuah hari penuh harapan, doa, serta tindakan bermakna bersama.

    Fattah Amin dalam ucapannya menekankan bahawa kempen ini bukan hanya berkaitan sebuah jenama, tetapi lebih kepada platform untuk menyatukan rakyat Malaysia demi tujuan kemanusiaan. Beliau menegaskan bahawa setiap hirupan membawa doa dan setiap pembelian mampu menyampaikan harapan kepada rakyat Palestin. Turut memberikan sokongan, Imam Muda Asyraf mengingatkan bahawa pada hari Jumaat yang mulia itu, masyarakat bukan sahaja akan berkumpul untuk beribadah, tetapi juga demi tujuan bersama. Beliau menekankan bahawa amalan kecil seperti membeli sebotol air boleh menjadi sadaqah jariah, yang pahalanya berpanjangan dan mampu memberi kelegaan kepada saudara seagama di Palestin.

    Pada hari bersejarah 17 Oktober nanti, Botol Edisi Terhad NEX akan mula dipasarkan di TikTok Shop dan 500 masjid seluruh negara. Penampilan khas Fattah Amin bersama Imam Muda Asyraf juga akan diadakan di beberapa masjid terpilih sekitar Lembah Klang. Setiap botol yang dibeli bukan sekadar tanda hidrasi, tetapi simbol kasih sayang yang bersama-sama membentuk lautan harapan.

    Kempen ini menjemput seluruh rakyat Malaysia untuk menjadi sebahagian daripada misi bermakna tersebut. Pada tarikh 17.10.25, jadilah antara mereka yang menyumbang bantuan, doa, dan solidariti demi Palestin melalui setiap botol air yang dibeli.

  • From Reactive to Preventive: Rethinking Building Upkeep for Malaysia’s Future

    As Malaysia’s property stock matures, industry players are warning that funding shortfalls and outdated maintenance practices could erode asset values and impose hidden costs on homeowners and investors. This comes at a critical juncture, with a significant share of high-rise condominiums in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor entering major refurbishment cycles without sufficient funds set aside.

    To address these concerns, Nippon Paint (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd (“Nippon Paint”) hosted a roundtable on the sustainable refurbishment of existing buildings. The session brought together leaders from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, the Malaysian Institute of Property and Facility Managers, the Malaysian Institute of Architects, the Association of Valuers, Property Managers, Estate Agents and Property Consultants in the Private Sector Malaysia, the Green Building Index, and the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia. Discussions centred on the two most pressing refurbishment needs facing Malaysian properties today, namely waterproofing and repainting, particularly for buildings aged between eleven and twenty years.

    At the heart of the problem lies Malaysia’s statutory sinking fund framework, which requires a contribution of ten percent, a formula established decades ago that no longer meets current demands. According to MIPFM member PMGR SR Nageswaran Muniandy, the most common and costly issues begin to appear when a building reaches six to ten years, with waterproofing topping the list. Once properties are over twenty years old, modernisation or even full upgrading is often required. However, with the sinking fund contribution capped at ten percent, most management bodies can only afford minimal repairs. This creates a domino effect, where delayed maintenance worsens property conditions, ultimately eroding property values and investor confidence.

    The panellists cautioned that insufficient funds not only delay essential work but also drive property owners toward short-term, low-cost fixes that fail to address root causes. Nippon Paint’s Senior Manager, Aaron Ang, explained that even the best waterproofing systems are ineffective if poorly applied or specified incorrectly. He noted that waterproofing is often used without rectifying underlying defects, merely postponing problems rather than solving them. Without stronger standards and enforcement, new buildings can begin leaking within three to five years. To counter this, Nippon Paint has established strict waterproofing procedures that involve periodic site inspections and close supervision, ensuring correct application through best practices at every stage, from pre-maintenance to post-maintenance, thereby delivering long-term durability and performance.

    The roundtable also highlighted Malaysia’s tendency to adopt a reactive approach to property maintenance, where action is taken only after damage becomes visible. By then, repairs are often more expensive, disruptive, and less effective. Former PAM president and current CEO of Green Building Index, Ar. Sarly Adre Sarkum, emphasised that preventive care, supported by proper manuals, certified professionals, and enforceable standards, could help break this costly cycle. By shifting from reactive to preventive practices, buildings could achieve longer lifespans and owners would face less financial strain over time.

    Another challenge is the rise of unqualified inspectors and contractors who misdiagnose issues, often making matters worse. Senior Manager of Nippon Paint Malaysia, Ester Goh, pointed out that many building managers turn to such unqualified parties, exacerbating problems rather than resolving them. While Nippon Paint provides courtesy inspections through certified applicators, Ester stressed that the industry as a whole requires proper regulation and recognition of competent professionals to safeguard property owners.

    Waterproofing problems are often dismissed as cosmetic inconveniences such as damp walls or peeling paint, yet these are early warning signs of deeper structural concerns. Ester noted that waterproofing failures should never be regarded as superficial, since leaks and dampness compromise comfort, safety, and building structures, eventually resulting in far greater costs than preventive upkeep. She added that even the best waterproofing systems require correct surface preparation, skilled workmanship, and periodic inspections. With warranties usually lasting five to ten years, many buildings fail to budget for system replacements once warranties expire, leaving management committees scrambling for funds when failures occur. To address this, Nippon Paint offers a re-waterproofing service carried out by certified applicators, backed by product warranties, workmanship warranties, and independent verifications such as SIRIM certification, Green Label certification, and laboratory test reports. These safeguards ensure solutions are applied correctly and deliver long-term durability and confidence for property owners.

    Beyond shifting practices, the panellists agreed that Malaysia urgently requires policy reform to ensure refurbishment keeps pace with urbanisation and rising costs. They called for the sinking fund formula to be revised to reflect the amortisation of major building components, for maintenance manuals to be mandated in all new developments, and for Malaysian Standards such as MS1294 and MS1063 to be incorporated into the Uniform Building By-Laws. According to Sarly, Malaysia already has waterproofing standards, but without embedding them into the UBBL, compliance remains weak. Stronger frameworks are necessary to ensure durability, protect property buyers, and keep up with rapid urbanisation.

    Despite these challenges, the market is poised for growth. With Malaysia’s urban centres dominated by ageing condominiums and strata properties, demand for high-quality refurbishment solutions is expected to rise steadily. As Aaron Ang concluded, buildings are long-term assets, and poor upkeep not only inconveniences residents but also reduces property values and undermines confidence in entire neighbourhoods. A healthier refurbishment ecosystem benefits homeowners, investors, and the economy at large.

    By convening regulators, professional bodies, and industry stakeholders, Nippon Paint underscored its commitment to building a stronger refurbishment ecosystem. Central to this is the company’s Total Coating and Construction Solutions (TCCS), a holistic approach ensuring that every stage of refurbishment, from drymix and waterproofing to repainting, is carried out with compatible systems, certified applicators, and long-term warranties. These integrated solutions address immediate concerns such as leaks and surface deterioration, while also extending building lifespans, safeguarding property values, and reducing financial strain on owners.

    In line with this commitment, Nippon Paint continues to innovate and expand its comprehensive waterproofing portfolio, catering to both new projects and refurbishment works. Its systems protect roofs, wet areas, basements, water-retaining structures, and walls, with a wide range of solutions from liquid membranes under the NippoSEAL brand, to sheet membranes under NippoGARD, and cementitious membranes under NippoCEM. These integrated options provide long-term protection against leaks and deterioration, ensuring sustained building value and reduced financial burden for property owners.

    For more information about Nippon Paint’s Total Coating and Construction Solutions Refurbishment Solutions, visit https://professional.nipponpaint.com.my/refurbishment.

  • Ramai Tak Sedar: Kanser Hati Lambat Dikesan, Nyawa Jadi Taruhan

    Ramai Tak Sedar: Kanser Hati Lambat Dikesan, Nyawa Jadi Taruhan

    Walaupun kelihatan sihat di luar, ramai rakyat Malaysia sebenarnya sedang menanggung risiko kesihatan yang besar di dalam. Dengan hepatitis B yang masih endemik dan kadar obesiti mencecah 21.3% dalam kalangan populasi, semakin ramai berhadapan risiko menghidap penyakit hati berlemak berkaitan disfungsi metabolik (MAFLD) satu keadaan yang boleh membawa kepada kanser hati.

    Menurut Dr Johann Faizal Khan, Pakar Bedah Am, Hepatobiliari dan Pankreatik di Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity (SMCV), kebanyakan kes kanser hati hanya dikesan apabila berada pada tahap serius. Katanya, ketiadaan program saringan awam yang menyeluruh menyebabkan ramai individu yang tidak menunjukkan sebarang gejala tidak sedar bahawa mereka sebenarnya sedang menghidap penyakit hati. Walaupun pesakit sirosis dan mereka yang menghidap hepatitis kronik biasanya disaring, ramai individu lain yang nampak sihat turut membawa risiko tanpa mengetahuinya. Isu ini bukan sahaja berlaku di Malaysia, tetapi merupakan fenomena global di mana kesan penyakit hati kronik yang tidak didiagnos kini mula dirasai oleh sistem kesihatan awam seluruh dunia.

    Kanser hati, terutamanya karsinoma hepatoselular (HCC), kekal sebagai antara punca utama kematian pramatang di negara ini. Ia merupakan kanser kelapan paling biasa di Malaysia, namun kadar kelangsungan hidup lima tahun hanyalah 12.8 peratus angka kedua terendah dalam kalangan kanser utama menurut laporan Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia. Lebih membimbangkan, 74 peratus daripada kes kanser hati dikesan pada tahap empat, ketika rawatan menjadi sangat terhad dan peluang pemulihan semakin kecil.

    Apa yang membahayakan ialah ketiadaan simptom awal yang ketara. Ramai yang menyangka mereka tidak berisiko kerana tidak mengambil alkohol atau tidak mengamalkan gaya hidup yang dianggap berbahaya. Namun, kanser hati boleh membesar dalam diam dan tidak menunjukkan sebarang petanda awal. Disebabkan itu, Dr Johann menekankan kepentingan melakukan saringan kesihatan berkala tanpa mengira latar belakang atau tahap kesihatan seseorang. Pengesanan awal, katanya, adalah kunci untuk meningkatkan peluang rawatan yang berjaya.

    Walaupun realiti kanser hati boleh menggerunkan, pesakit kini mempunyai akses kepada pelbagai pilihan rawatan moden yang lebih berkesan. Salah satu inovasi yang semakin meluas ialah terapi invasif minima seperti terapi ablasi, yang boleh menggantikan keperluan untuk pembedahan terbuka. Antara kaedah yang semakin mendapat perhatian ialah penggunaan teknologi NanoKnife, yang menghantar gelombang elektrik pendek terus ke sel kanser tanpa merosakkan tisu sihat di sekelilingnya. Ini amat berguna untuk pesakit dengan fungsi hati yang terjejas atau tumor yang terletak berhampiran struktur penting dalam badan.

    Kaedah ini juga berperanan sebagai rawatan sementara bagi pesakit yang menunggu pemindahan hati atau sebagai rawatan untuk kanser yang berulang. Dalam kes-kes tertentu, terutamanya bagi tumor bersaiz besar atau yang memerlukan pembinaan semula kompleks, pembedahan terbuka seperti hepatektomi separa masih diperlukan. Pembedahan ini membuang bahagian hati yang dijangkiti, dan hati yang selebihnya mempunyai keupayaan semula jadi untuk tumbuh semula. Bagi pesakit yang mengalami kerosakan hati yang menyeluruh, pemindahan hati daripada penderma sihat mungkin menjadi satu-satunya pilihan. Namun, tiada satu pun pendekatan rawatan yang dianggap lebih baik daripada yang lain. Dr Johann menjelaskan bahawa semua kaedah ini saling melengkapi dan perlu disesuaikan mengikut keadaan dan keperluan setiap pesakit, berasaskan pendekatan rawatan peribadi serta konsep perubatan presisi.

    Rawatan bukanlah penamat kepada perjuangan melawan kanser hati. Pesakit yang telah melalui rawatan masih perlu berwaspada kerana risiko pengulangan penyakit kekal tinggi, terutamanya dalam kalangan mereka yang menghidap hepatitis kronik, fibrosis atau sirosis. Pemantauan berterusan sangat penting untuk memastikan sebarang tanda awal kanser yang berulang dapat dikesan dan dirawat dengan segera.

    Selain berjumpa pakar secara berkala, pesakit juga disarankan untuk menjaga gaya hidup mereka secara menyeluruh. Ini termasuk mengekalkan pemakanan yang seimbang, menjauhkan diri daripada alkohol dan rokok, serta mengelakkan penggunaan ubat tradisional yang tidak dikawal. Usaha untuk mendidik pesakit mengenai kepentingan penjagaan hati adalah sama pentingnya dengan rawatan itu sendiri, kerana pencegahan dan penjagaan susulan memainkan peranan besar dalam memastikan kesihatan jangka panjang.

    Kemajuan teknologi rawatan, daripada pembedahan terbuka kepada terapi ablasi dan teknik invasif minima, mencerminkan evolusi dalam rawatan kanser hati yang kini lebih selamat dan berkesan. Selain memperluas pilihan bagi kes yang dahulunya dianggap tidak boleh dirawat, inovasi ini juga memberi fokus kepada aspek pemulihan dan kualiti hidup pesakit. Dengan akses kepada rawatan terkini dan pendekatan perubatan yang lebih menyeluruh di Malaysia, pesakit kanser hati kini mempunyai peluang yang lebih cerah untuk hidup lebih lama dan lebih sihat terutamanya jika penyakit ini dapat dikesan lebih awal dan dirawat secara proaktif.

    Pusat Perubatan Sunway Velocity terletak di Lingkaran SV, Sunway Velocity. Untuk maklumat lanjut atau pertanyaan, sila hubungi +603 9772 9191 atau emel ke smcv-enquiry@sunway.com.my. Untuk maklumat lanjut berkenaan perkhidmatan dan rawatan di SMCV, sila layari www.sunmedvelocity.com.my atau ikuti laman Facebook rasmi Sunway Medical Centre Velocity.

  • Bantuan Digital: Harapan Baru untuk Mangsa Letupan

    Bantuan Digital: Harapan Baru untuk Mangsa Letupan

    Bencana yang menimpa penduduk Putra Heights akibat letupan paip gas telah menyebabkan kehilangan harta benda yang besar, termasuk peranti elektronik yang penting dalam kehidupan harian. Kementerian Digital tampil menghulurkan bantuan dengan menyalurkan sumbangan peranti bernilai RM300,000 bagi membantu mangsa yang terjejas.

    Inisiatif ini melibatkan pelbagai agensi di bawah Kementerian Digital seperti Perbadanan Ekonomi Digital Malaysia (MDEC), MyDigital Corporation, dan Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). Mereka telah berusaha untuk mendapatkan sumbangan dalam bentuk peranti elektronik bagi membantu mangsa meneruskan kehidupan mereka.

    Antara barangan yang disumbangkan termasuk 500 unit ‘power bank’, 150 unit beg sekolah dan alat tulis, 100 unit tablet, 138 unit komputer riba, serta 4 unit mesin cetak. Peranti ini amat diperlukan bagi mereka yang bergantung kepada teknologi dalam pekerjaan dan pendidikan mereka.

    Menteri Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, semasa lawatan ke Pusat Pemindahan Sementara (PPS), telah dimaklumkan tentang betapa pentingnya peranti elektronik ini kepada mangsa. Dengan sumbangan ini, mereka boleh terus berhubung dan mengurus kehidupan harian mereka dengan lebih mudah.

    Bantuan ini juga mendapat sokongan daripada pelbagai syarikat swasta seperti Huawei Malaysia, Dell Technologies, Lenovo Malaysia, dan banyak lagi. Keprihatinan sektor swasta menunjukkan betapa pentingnya solidariti dalam membantu mangsa bencana.

    Sumbangan ini disampaikan secara rasmi oleh YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin bin Shari bersama Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif MDEC. Proses agihan dikendalikan oleh Menteri Besar Incorporation (MBI) untuk memastikan bantuan sampai kepada yang memerlukan.

    Dengan inisiatif ini, mangsa tragedi mendapat sedikit kelegaan dan harapan baru untuk meneruskan kehidupan mereka. Bantuan digital ini membuktikan bahawa teknologi bukan sahaja memudahkan kehidupan, tetapi juga menjadi penyelamat dalam saat-saat sukar.