Category: News

  • Statistik Feb 2026: Produksi Getah Asli Malaysia Jatuh 24.1%

    Statistik Feb 2026: Produksi Getah Asli Malaysia Jatuh 24.1%

    Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia (DOSM) hari ini mengeluarkan statistik terkini mengenai industri getah asli bagi bulan Februari 2026. Laporan ini memberikan perincian mendalam mengenai dinamik pengeluaran, aliran perdagangan global, serta kedudukan stok akhir negara.

    Ringkasan Pengeluaran Bagi bulan Februari 2026, pengeluaran getah asli Malaysia merekodkan sebanyak 21,705 tan metrik, iaitu penurunan sebanyak 24.1 peratus berbanding bulan sebelumnya. Trend penurunan ini turut dilihat dalam perbandingan tahun ke tahun, di mana pengeluaran susut sebanyak 39.7 peratus berbanding Februari 2025. Pekebun kecil kekal sebagai penggerak utama industri dengan sumbangan sebanyak 87.0 peratus daripada keseluruhan pengeluaran nasional.

    Kedudukan Perdagangan dan Stok

    • Aliran Eksport: Malaysia mengeksport sebanyak 33,897 tan metrik getah asli, merosot 20.0 peratus berbanding Januari 2026. China kekal sebagai rakan dagang utama (48.9%), diikuti pasaran Eropah dan Timur Tengah.
    • Nilai Eksport Produk: Sektor sarung tangan getah menyumbang nilai eksport sebanyak RM0.9 bilion, mencerminkan kedudukan Malaysia sebagai pemain utama walaupun menghadapi penurunan nilai bulanan.
    • Tahap Stok: Stok akhir getah asli dalam negara meningkat 3.3 peratus kepada 139,985 tan metrik, dengan majoriti simpanan dipegang oleh pihak kilang pemproses.

    Dinamik Harga dan Pasaran Global Harga purata bulanan getah domestik menunjukkan trend positif dengan Lateks Pekat meningkat kepada 586.69 sen/kg dan Sekerap kepada 631.13 sen/kg. Di peringkat antarabangsa, harga getah TSR 20 dan SGP/MYS turut meningkat melebihi 4.0 peratus mengikut data The World Bank. Sentimen pasaran dipengaruhi oleh kekurangan bekalan global namun kekal berwaspada terhadap permintaan sektor automotif yang masih belum pulih sepenuhnya.

    Transformasi Digital dan Data Seiring dengan pelaksanaan Banci Ekonomi 2026 (BE2026), DOSM terus komited memperkukuh ketelusan data negara. Pencapaian Malaysia di tangga pertama global dalam laporan Open Data Inventory (ODIN) 2024/25 membuktikan kualiti pengurusan data nasional. Pengguna digalakkan menggunakan portal OpenDOSM NextGen dan TaniStats 2.0 untuk analisis data yang lebih inklusif dan interaktif.

  • Weda Mauve’s “End Great Wars”: A Final Goodbye to Longing

    Weda Mauve’s “End Great Wars”: A Final Goodbye to Longing

    Prolific singer-songwriter Weda Mauve is officially calling a ceasefire on emotional turmoil with the release of his latest single, “END GREAT WARS.” Produced by the visionary Petra Sihombing, the track is a masterclass in atmospheric alt-pop, blending raw vulnerability with the polished production that has become Weda’s hallmark.

    “END GREAT WARS” is more than just a song; it is a narrative milestone. It captures the exhausting journey of a long search for love, navigating the narrow space between the fear of being hurt and the excitement of a new connection. For Weda, the “war” ends when the right partner is found, allowing the armor to finally come down.

    “It’s about that moment of reaching the end of a search,” explains Weda Mauve. “It’s the balance of intimacy and the inherent vulnerability that comes with falling for someone enigmatic.”

    This release serves as a high-stakes preview for the upcoming Pack Your Bags – Side B. With his previous project, Side A, clocking over 200,000 streams and his viral hit “Wish We Never Met” surpassing 700,000 streams, Weda is rapidly becoming a leading voice in the Southeast Asian indie scene. Currently reaching 35,000 monthly listeners, the 100+ songs he has written since age 14 are finally finding a global home.

    Project Highlights

    • The Collaboration: Featuring production by Petra Sihombing, adding a sophisticated layer to Weda’s indie-rock roots.
    • The Metaphor: “End Great Wars” represents the cessation of internal conflict once finding a partner.
    • The Roadmap: This single completes the bridge between Side A and the full Pack Your Bags album.

    About Weda Mauve

    Hailing from Surabaya, Indonesia, Weda Mauve is an indie artist who captures the rawness of youth through a blend of pop, ballads, and alternative rock. Since his debut album DENIAL, he has been recognized for his ability to translate complex personal growth into relatable, streaming-friendly anthems.

  • New Single “Bila”: Aku Jeje’s Antidote for the Past

    New Single “Bila”: Aku Jeje’s Antidote for the Past

    Aku Jeje is back to reclaim his title as the master of musical nostalgia. Known for his seamless fusion of Pop, Folk, Jazz, and Bossa Nova, the singer-songwriter is shifting his gaze toward the quietest corners of heartbreak. His new single, “Bila,” dives into the unspoken reality of those left behind—the ones still waiting for a return that hasn’t happened.

    Following the massive cultural footprint of “Lihat Kebunku (Taman Bunga)”—a track nearing 100 million streams—Jeje’s latest release trades grand cinematic sweeps for a raw, intimate embrace. With over 7.6 million monthly listeners looking to him for solace, Jeje uses “Bila” to bridge the gap between childhood hope and the heavy reflections of adulthood.

    “He saw their pain, he heard their prayers, and he turned their silence into a song,” Aku Jeje shares. “To me, ‘Bila’ represents the most difficult form of bravery: the courage to forgive the past so you can finally move forward.”

    Produced by Heinriko Christiansen, the track serves as a soundtrack for the journey of self-growth. It’s a gentle reminder that at the end of every long wait, finding peace within yourself is the greatest victory.

    “Bila” officially entered the digital airwaves on April 10, 2026, and is now streaming worldwide.

  • Workplace Happiness in Malaysia at 70%, but Stress and Burnout Persist

    Workplace Happiness in Malaysia at 70%, but Stress and Burnout Persist

    Most workers in Malaysia report feeling happy at work, but that optimism comes with important caveats employers should not overlook. According to Jobstreet by SEEK’s latest Workplace Happiness Index, 70% of Malaysian workers say they feel somewhat or extremely happy in their jobs, yet far fewer are comfortable with the pressures that come with their roles. While a similar majority feel valued and 68% find their work fulfilling, underlying stress and burnout continue to shape the overall employee experience.

    The Workplace Happiness Index is based on responses from around 1,000 individuals aged 18 to 64 who are currently part of the workforce in Malaysia. The study offers a comprehensive snapshot of how employees feel about their jobs today, providing valuable insights for employers, HR leaders, and policymakers looking to build more positive and productive workplaces. These findings come against the backdrop of a relatively strong labour market, with steady job opportunities and low unemployment. However, beneath the surface, three in ten workers feel either unhappy or neutral about their work, highlighting clear room for improvement.

    For many Malaysians, workplace happiness is rooted in the fundamentals of daily work. Employees report being happiest with where they work (69%), who they work with (65%), and what they do on a day-to-day basis (65%). Predictable routines, supportive colleagues, and meaningful responsibilities contribute to a sense of control and ownership, which consistently underpin positive workplace experiences.

    Despite generally positive sentiment, stress and burnout have emerged as significant concerns. Only 36% of workers are satisfied with their stress levels, while 41% say they feel burnt out or exhausted by their jobs. Burnout is closely linked to workplace dissatisfaction, with unhappy workers being twice as likely to report feeling burnt out compared to those who are happy. Among those who are unhappy, 71% say that improving work-life balance would increase their happiness, second only to higher pay. This underscores a pressing reality: unmanaged stress and burnout can negatively affect wellbeing, absenteeism, and long-term productivity.

    According to Nicholas Lam, Managing Director at Jobstreet by SEEK Malaysia, while it is encouraging that 70% of workers feel happy, a significant proportion still feel disengaged, burnt out, or unsupported. He emphasised that although salary remains important, a sense of purpose is what truly sustains workplace happiness. The research shows that 64% of Malaysian workers are satisfied with the sense of purpose they derive from their work, reinforcing the strong link between meaningful work and overall job satisfaction. While competitive pay plays a key role in attracting and retaining talent, workplace happiness is more likely to thrive when employees feel their contributions are meaningful and connected to a larger purpose.

    Lam added that workplace happiness in Malaysia is a shared responsibility. When employers invest in purpose-driven roles, supportive cultures, and actively listen to the diverse needs of their workforce, the impact is tangible in the form of higher engagement, productivity, and retention. Ultimately, building happier workplaces is not only beneficial for employees but is also critical for long-term business success.

    Workplace happiness also varies across generations. Gen Z employees tend to report lower levels of happiness and higher stress as they navigate early career pressures, skill development, and the need to prove themselves. They are more likely to say that reducing stress would significantly improve their happiness (40%), compared to 35% of Millennials and 27% of Gen X workers. Industry differences further shape workplace experiences, with Professional Services and Construction sectors reporting the highest levels of happiness at 78%, while the Public Sector (62%), Industrial (61%), and Retail, Hospitality and Sports (55%) sectors rank lower, reflecting ongoing challenges related to workload, recognition, and flexibility.

    To strengthen workplace happiness in the year ahead, Jobstreet by SEEK encourages employers to focus on fostering a stronger sense of purpose by clearly linking employees’ daily responsibilities to broader organisational goals and values, building positive and supportive workplace cultures that help reduce stress and burnout, and recognising the differing needs across generations by tailoring approaches to suit various life and career stages. The full Workplace Happiness Index: Malaysia report is available for download.

  • CAPAS 2026 Unites Southwest China Automotive Sector for Innovation and Growth

    Chengdu, 8 April 2026. The 12th Chengdu International Trade Fair for Automotive Parts and Aftermarket Services (CAPAS Chengdu) will be held at the Chengdu Century City New International Exhibition and Convention Center from 21 to 23 May 2026. Covering 53,000 sqm, the event is expected to welcome over 790 exhibitors from China and abroad, reflecting the continued growth of Southwest China’s automotive sector. This edition will highlight new energy vehicles, connected mobility, and commercial vehicle innovations alongside automotive customisation, reinforcing CAPAS as a key platform for industry collaboration and development across Sichuan and Chongqing.

    Mr James Yu, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd, said CAPAS continues to support the sustainable development of the regional automotive market by serving as both a showcase and a collaboration platform. He emphasised the growing importance of new energy vehicles and intelligent technologies, noting that this year’s event will focus on supply chain integration, electrification, aftermarket upgrades, and automotive culture through curated zones and interactive programmes designed to encourage innovation and partnerships.

    The Sichuan-Chongqing region has become a major automotive hub in China, with strong growth in new energy vehicle production and a rapidly expanding aftermarket industry. CAPAS 2026 will feature dedicated zones including commercial vehicles, parts sourcing, remanufacturing, new energy and intelligent connectivity, as well as accessories and customisation. These zones will present innovations ranging from electrified components and charging systems to performance upgrades and sustainable mobility solutions.

    In addition, CAPAS will host 25 concurrent conferences and events covering supply chains, NEVs, green development, and industry collaboration, while also strengthening international engagement through buyer programmes and industry-academia initiatives. The exhibition continues to serve as a strategic platform driving innovation, cooperation, and long-term growth in the regional automotive industry.

  • MATTA Fair April 2026 – Embrace Green Travel, Preserve the Earth, Live Cleanly

    KUALA LUMPUR, 2 APRIL 2026 – MATTA Fair April 2026 is set to return from 3 to 5 April at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, marking its 58th edition with record-breaking participation. Organised by the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), the event will feature 2,051 booths across 10 halls, making it the largest consumer travel fair in the country. A total of 332 organisations will participate, including travel agencies, tourism boards, hotels, and service providers, offering a wide range of travel products and services.

    This year’s edition highlights both domestic and international tourism, with Johor named Malaysia’s Favourite Destination and Macao as the International Favourite Destination. The fair also receives continued support from key partners such as Malaysia Aviation Group and RHB Bank, enhancing travel accessibility and providing additional benefits for visitors. According to MATTA President Nigel Wong, Malaysia’s tourism industry remains resilient despite global uncertainties, with strong demand driven by the country’s diverse attractions and well-connected infrastructure.

    Sustainability remains a key focus at MATTA Fair 2026 through the MESTI Pavilion, which features eco-conscious initiatives and organisations promoting responsible tourism. Visitors can also participate in various campaigns, including contests and interactive activities designed to enhance engagement. With free admission and extended operating hours, the fair aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible platform for travellers to plan their journeys while supporting sustainable tourism practices.

  • MIFFest 2026 Brings Back the Echo of Cinema with “Resonance” and a Dynamic New Ambassador Line-Up for Its 9th Edition

    MIFFest 2026 Brings Back the Echo of Cinema with “Resonance” and a Dynamic New Ambassador Line-Up for Its 9th Edition

    KUALA LUMPUR, 2 April – The Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) has officially announced the return of its 9th edition, scheduled from 18 to 25 July 2026 in Kuala Lumpur. The announcement, made during a press conference at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur, highlighted key festival developments, including its theme “Resonance” and an expanded slate of international collaborations. The festival will open at MyTOWN Shopping Centre in partnership with GSC International Screens, continuing its tradition of accessible and large-scale cinematic showcases.

    MIFFest 2026 introduces a strong thematic direction centred on the enduring influence of film in shaping conversations and cultural understanding. The theme “Resonance” underscores the role of cinema in reflecting social realities and fostering emotional connections across audiences. This year’s ambassador line-up includes Jack Tan and Zizan Razak, who join returning figures Daiyan Trisha and Bront Palarae, representing both emerging and established voices within the Malaysian film landscape.

    In addition to its core programming, MIFFest will host the second edition of ASEAN On Screen, further promoting Southeast Asian cinema on a regional and global scale. The festival also strengthens its international presence through collaborations with the Asian World Film Festival and the Far East Film Festival, while introducing new initiatives such as Russian Film Week and AI-focused filmmaker programmes. With continued support from FINAS and strategic partners, MIFFest 2026 is set to reinforce its position as a leading film festival in Asia, driving cultural exchange and industry growth.

  • Aksi Gergasi Tiba! Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire Mulakan Jelajah Asia di Malaysia

    Aksi Gergasi Tiba! Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire Mulakan Jelajah Asia di Malaysia

    Buat pertama kalinya, pertunjukan siaran langsung Hot Wheels Monster Trucks terbesar di dunia bakal berlangsung di Asia. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire akan memulakan debut jelajah Asia di Malaysia pada 16 hingga 17 Oktober 2026 di Unifi Arena Bukit Jalil, menampilkan tiga pertunjukan sepanjang dua hari. Tiket serta maklumat lanjut acara boleh didapati di Tri-tix.com, dengan jadual pertunjukan merangkumi sesi pada Jumaat, 16 Oktober jam 8.00 malam dengan akses pra-pertunjukan VIP dari jam 5.30 petang hingga 7.00 malam, serta dua sesi pada Sabtu, 17 Oktober iaitu jam 1.00 tengah hari dengan akses VIP dari jam 10.30 pagi hingga 12.00 tengah hari, dan jam 8.00 malam dengan akses VIP dari jam 5.30 petang hingga 7.00 malam.

    Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire dipersembahkan oleh Family Entertainment Live, manakala siri jelajah di Malaysia dianjurkan bersama oleh MUSE Group Asia dan Unik Squad. Pertunjukan ini akan menghidupkan trak-trak ikonik kegemaran peminat seperti Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, Gunkster™, Bone Shaker™, Bigfoot® dan Skelesaurus™, di samping memperkenalkan trak baharu, Rhinomite yang diinspirasikan daripada badak sumbu. Pengalaman baharu ini turut menampilkan aksi-aksi mendebarkan yang belum pernah dipersembahkan sebelum ini, termasuk aksi No-Handed Front Flip oleh penunggang FMX.

    Berikutan kejayaan Glow-N-Fire pada tahun 2025 yang merangkul anugerah Pollstar Family Show of the Year, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™ kini bersedia meneruskan momentum ke tahun 2026 dengan siri jelajah merentasi Amerika Utara, Eropah, Amerika Latin dan kini Asia, dengan Malaysia menjadi lokasi pembuka tirai.

    Para peminat juga berpeluang menikmati Akses Pra-pertunjukan VIP yang berlangsung dua jam 30 minit sebelum setiap pertunjukan bermula. Pengalaman ini membolehkan peminat turun ke aras arena untuk melihat dengan lebih dekat rekaan unik dan saiz epik trak-trak tersebut, serta mendapatkan tandatangan daripada pemandu dan bintang kegemaran mereka. Setiap tiket VIP turut disertakan dengan kad autograf, tertakluk kepada ketersediaan.

    Tiket untuk Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire akan mula dijual di Tri-Tix pada 16 April 2026 bermula jam 8.00 pagi dengan harga bermula daripada RM118. Harga istimewa untuk kanak-kanak turut ditawarkan bagi semua pertunjukan, menjadikannya pilihan hiburan yang berbaloi untuk seisi keluarga. Peminat juga boleh mendapatkan tiket di lokasi jelajah Hot Wheels Monster Trucks di Pavilion Bukit Jalil dari 16 hingga 26 April untuk menikmati ganjaran eksklusif seperti diskaun 10% dan hadiah misteri Hot Wheels Monster Trucks, terhad kepada 100 pembeli pertama. Untuk maklumat lanjut, layari HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive.com.

  • Moratorium Pinjaman Bersasar Wajar Dipertimbang Bagi Ringankan Beban Rakyat

    Dalam keadaan ketidaktentuan geopolitik global yang memberi tekanan kepada ekonomi negara, ramai rakyat kini berdepan cabaran dalam mengurus perbelanjaan harian serta komitmen kewangan sedia ada. Situasi ini secara langsung menjejaskan aliran tunai isi rumah dan keupayaan mereka untuk berbelanja dengan lebih yakin.

    Sehubungan itu, KEADILAN Putrajaya berpandangan bahawa kerajaan wajar mempertimbangkan semula pelaksanaan moratorium pinjaman bank secara bersasar sebagai langkah segera bagi membantu meringankan beban rakyat. Moratorium bukanlah penghapusan hutang, sebaliknya merupakan penangguhan bayaran komitmen kewangan yang dapat memberi ruang kepada isi rumah untuk menyusun semula keutamaan perbelanjaan mereka.

    Dalam tempoh tersebut, lebihan tunai yang tersedia boleh dimanfaatkan untuk keperluan asas, sekali gus memberikan kelegaan kepada rakyat dalam mengurus kehidupan seharian. Pada masa yang sama, langkah ini berpotensi meningkatkan semula kuasa beli rakyat. Apabila aliran tunai bertambah, perbelanjaan domestik turut dirangsang dan seterusnya memberi manfaat kepada perniagaan tempatan, khususnya perusahaan kecil dan sederhana. Kesan berganda ini penting bagi memastikan ekonomi domestik terus kekal aktif dan berdaya tahan.

    Walau bagaimanapun, pelaksanaan moratorium perlu dirangka dengan teliti dan dilaksanakan secara bersasar. Keutamaan harus diberikan kepada golongan yang benar-benar memerlukan, termasuk kumpulan B40 dan sebahagian M40 yang terjejas. Pendekatan menyeluruh secara pukal wajar dielakkan bagi memastikan keseimbangan antara membantu rakyat dan mengekalkan kestabilan sistem kewangan negara. Pendekatan ini juga selari dengan peranan kerajaan sebagai penstabil ekonomi yang bertanggungjawab, di mana intervensi bersasar mampu memberi impak yang lebih menyeluruh jika dilaksanakan secara berhemah.

    Pada masa yang sama, kerjasama erat dengan Bank Negara Malaysia serta institusi kewangan adalah penting bagi memastikan pelaksanaan dasar ini tidak menjejaskan keutuhan sistem perbankan negara. Pendekatan yang pragmatik dan tersusun diyakini mampu memberikan kelegaan kepada rakyat, di samping membantu merangsang semula aktiviti ekonomi domestik secara lebih mampan.

  • Mastercard Unveils AI Centre of Excellence to Transform Payments in Southeast Asia

    Mastercard has announced a significant advancement in its ASEAN AI strategy with the successful rollout of authenticated agentic transactions across multiple markets in the region, alongside plans to establish a regional AI Centre of Excellence in Singapore. These developments underscore Mastercard’s commitment to promoting secure and transparent agentic commerce while preparing the region for AI-driven payments at scale.

    The initial wave of authenticated agentic transactions in Singapore and Malaysia, with additional markets expected to follow, demonstrates the readiness of ASEAN for interoperable AI agents capable of enabling safe, transparent transactions. For the first region-wide testing, Mastercard collaborated with UOB, leveraging the bank’s extensive network to ensure that future deployments could scale across diverse markets. In parallel, Mastercard worked with local banks in each country to support localized implementations, laying the groundwork for broader regional expansion as more stakeholders participate.

    Safdar Khan, Division President for Southeast Asia at Mastercard, said, “The first wave of authenticated agentic transactions across ASEAN shows how quickly the region is embracing secure, AI-enabled commerce. With early pilots now live, Mastercard is demonstrating that AI agents can operate responsibly and transparently, giving consumers confidence that every transaction is authenticated and anchored in verifiable intent.” Jacquelyn Tan, Head of Group Personal Financial Services at UOB, added, “Our multi-market collaboration with Mastercard shows how trusted, AI-driven payments can enhance everyday banking and commerce, tailored to diverse lifestyle needs across the region. As adoption grows, we continue to combine innovation and strong governance to scale these capabilities across borders, unlocking greater value for consumers and businesses across ASEAN.”

    Mastercard Agent Pay represents the next phase of AI-powered commerce by providing the framework and safeguards needed for secure AI-initiated transactions. By combining tokenized credentials, verifiable intent, and end-to-end auditability through Mastercard Agentic Tokens and Payment Passkeys, the platform ensures that every AI-driven transaction aligns with consumer authorization and trust expectations. As commerce becomes increasingly autonomous, Mastercard is introducing Verifiable Intent, a standards-based trust paradigm co-developed with Google, which creates a tamper-resistant record of user authorization and serves as a shared source of truth for consumers, merchants, and issuers.

    Later this year, Mastercard will launch its regional AI Centre of Excellence in Singapore, combining its innovation hub, advanced cybersecurity capabilities, and AI expertise to form its largest innovation space in Asia Pacific. The centre reflects Mastercard’s broader commitment to advancing AI in the region, building on more than a decade of AI applications across its network, including fraud detection, cybersecurity, and real-time risk management. Supported by deep data assets, established governance frameworks, and over 2,000 global data scientists, engineers, and consultants, the CoE is designed to accelerate AI readiness.

    “Trust is the currency of the AI economy. As connected commerce expands across ASEAN, data is key to transforming payments into seamless and intuitive experiences. Mastercard’s AI Centre of Excellence, together with regional collaborations, will strengthen the frameworks necessary for AI-powered commerce to scale responsibly. By pairing innovation with strong governance, we are laying the foundation for AI-initiated payments that are secure, interoperable across borders, and inclusive for consumers and businesses throughout Southeast Asia,” concluded Khan.