Menjelang Ramadan Al-Mubarak 1447 Hijrah, Menara Kuala Lumpur kembali mempersembahkan bufet tahunan yang dinanti ramai, Citarasa Santapan Desa – “Rasa Asli, Suasana Eksklusif”, yang bakal berlangsung dari 21 Februari hingga 16 Mac 2026 di Sky Mega Hall, sebuah ruang makan premium setinggi 292 meter dari aras bumi. Bufet ini menawarkan pengalaman gastronomi unik yang menggabungkan keaslian hidangan kampung dengan sentuhan moden, sambil membolehkan tetamu menikmati panorama 360° Kuala Lumpur dari senja ke malam. Dengan tema baharu tahun ini, bufet ini membangkitkan nostalgia desa melalui rasa, aroma, tekstur dan suasana yang dirancang secara teliti oleh pasukan kulinari Menara Kuala Lumpur dan Knight Cuisines Sdn. Bhd.
Pengunjung bakal dihidangkan lebih 200 pilihan hidangan desa yang disusun dalam empat set menu rotasi mingguan, termasuk kerabu mangga, sup tulang berempah, rendang tok, ayam percik desa, kari kepala ikan, ikan talapia bakar dan sambal tempoyak daun kayu. Gerai masakan secara langsung menjadi tarikan utama dengan kambing golek manja, char kuey teow kampung, mee kari kuah pekat, sate ayam dan daging serta cucur udang panas dan apam balik rangup. Pencuci mulut tradisi seperti kuih-muih Melayu, pengat pisang dan bubur kacang hijau, disertai minuman klasik seperti air bandung, teh tarik dan sirap limau menambah kesempurnaan pengalaman bufet.
Bagi mengekalkan suasana eksklusif, hanya 220 tetamu dibenarkan setiap hari, memastikan ruang, privasi dan layanan premium terjamin. Tetamu juga berpeluang menikmati pemandangan menakjubkan KLCC dan panorama Kuala Lumpur, dengan pilihan tempat duduk berhampiran tingkap untuk pengalaman terbaik. Kemudahan tambahan termasuk surau, kerusi bayi terhad, ruang menunggu selesa, perkhidmatan shuttle, keselamatan terlatih dan koordinasi pramusaji profesional.
Hari / Tiket
Dewasa
Warga Emas
Kanak-kanak / OKU
Hari Biasa
RM179
RM134
RM107
Early Bird
RM125
RM94
RM75
Hari Minggu
RM199
RM149
RM119
Early Bird
RM139
RM104
RM84
*Harga termasuk 10% caj perkhidmatan dan 6% SST.
Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif LSH Service Master Sdn. Bhd., Encik Khairil Faizal Hj Othman, menekankan bahawa Citarasa Santapan Desa bukan sekadar bufet, tetapi sebuah pengalaman gastronomi yang mengangkat warisan desa ke pentas premium Kuala Lumpur Tower. Dengan promosi Early Bird dari 1 November hingga 31 Disember 2025, pengalaman eksklusif ini dijangka meninggalkan kenangan Ramadan yang indah bagi keluarga, tetamu korporat, dan pelancong antarabangsa.
TEMPAHAN & MAKLUMAT LANJUT – TEMPAT SANGAT TERHAD Tempahan dibuka sekarang dan tertakluk kepada kapasiti. Untuk pertanyaan dan tempahan: +603 2630 3033 Rebut tawaran Early Bird sebelum 31 Disember 2025. Rasa asli desa, suasana eksklusif – hanya di Kuala Lumpur Tower.
Malaysian hip-hop legend Joe Flizzow makes a powerful and long-awaited comeback with the release of his new single, “501,” a track that marks a bold new chapter in his artistic evolution. Written by Joe Flizzow and produced by celebrated collaborators SonaOne and Gard, “501” showcases the synergy of three influential forces in the local music scene. The single emerges after a period of introspection and creative recalibration for Joe, capturing the maturity, clarity, and self-assuredness he has gained over time. Through sharp lyricism, confident delivery, and sleek modern production, “501” delivers a message rooted in resilience, authenticity, and unwavering belief in one’s identity—hallmarks of Joe’s artistry that continue to resonate across generations. The sonic landscape crafted by SonaOne and Gard blends contemporary textures with Joe’s signature tone, creating a track that feels refreshing while staying true to the essence of his legacy.
Beyond the music, “501” expands into a captivating visual universe through its official music video, which introduces viewers to a dark, tense, and emotionally charged narrative. Filled with shadowy scenes, confrontations, and explosive moments, the video heightens the sense of mystery surrounding the new era Joe is ushering in. Its dramatic “To Be Continued” ending adds a layer of suspense, hinting at a larger storyline waiting to unfold and signaling that this release is only the beginning of something bigger. As Joe Flizzow steps confidently into this next phase, “501” not only reconnects him with long-time fans but also positions him to captivate newer audiences, reaffirming his enduring influence and relevance within the regional hip-hop landscape.
Majestic Gen has strengthened its footprint in Penang’s Northern Region with the strategic acquisition of a prime freehold site along Jalan Anson in George Town, purchased for RM75 million via Dynamic Gates Sdn Bhd, a special purpose vehicle under Paramount Corporation Bhd’s earlier securitization exercise. The site, comprising three adjoining parcels with a combined gross floor area of approximately 295,508 square feet, is currently occupied by UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College. The purchase price, which exceeds the RM70 million valuation conducted in November 2025, reflects Majestic Gen’s confidence in the long-term potential of both the location and the region.
This acquisition aligns with Majestic Gen’s strategy to expand its presence in high-growth urban centers across the Northern Region, as Penang continues to flourish as a hub for technology, education, culture, and tourism. Jalan Anson offers a unique combination of accessibility, established amenities, and proximity to key commercial, medical, and cultural destinations, positioning Majestic Gen in a highly sought-after enclave that provides a solid foundation for future high-rise developments. Guided by its CHARM values—customer-centric, honest, ambitious, resourceful, and magnificent—the group aims to develop projects that meet community needs while maintaining clarity, purpose, and relevance in planning.
According to Datuk Hoo Kim See, Chief Executive Officer of Majestic Gen, the acquisition represents an important step in the company’s Northern Region expansion, enabling the creation of developments that deliver lasting value and trust to the community. Executive Director Mr Ta Wee Dher added that the Jalan Anson site offers a strategic foundation for the next phase of growth, with the potential to integrate contemporary design while respecting the character of George Town.
This move builds on Majestic Gen’s proven track record in Penang, including the successful launch of Majestic Aman in July 2025, a 5.66-acre freehold residential and commercial development in Taman Sungai Dua Utama with a Gross Development Value of RM66.8 million. Beyond residential and commercial projects, the group also drives industrial growth through its joint venture Suling Hill Development Sdn Bhd, which manages the 176-acre Northern TechValley industrial park with a projected GDV of RM1.3 billion. With the Jalan Anson acquisition, Majestic Gen reinforces its commitment to Penang’s urban development, focusing on thoughtfully planned high-rise projects that combine modern design, urban convenience, and enduring value for communities.
CGS International Securities Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (“CGS MY”), a leading integrated financial services provider, has shared its preliminary market outlook ahead of the release of its annual Navigator Report 2026, providing insights into Malaysia’s economic and capital market prospects for the coming year. The report preview comes at a pivotal time, following Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN, the upcoming Budget 2026, and the rollout of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). CGS MY highlighted that ASEAN continues to be a global beacon of stability, with Malaysia playing a central role in the region due to its strategic economic and political positioning. Despite global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, Malaysia’s domestic markets have remained resilient, with trade volumes and values on Bursa Malaysia largely supported by domestic participation. Following a dip in April 2025, the FBM KLCI and FBM Emas indices rebounded to 1,619.63 and 11,818.32 points respectively, signaling steady investor confidence.
Khairi Shahrin Arief Baki, Chief Executive Officer-designate of CGS MY, expressed a constructive outlook for 2026, noting that Malaysia’s strategic location, strong domestic focus, and policy support for high-growth, high-value sectors position it as a safe haven amid ongoing US-China and China-Japan trade tensions. With seven more IPO listings in the pipeline for 2025, CGS MY expects Malaysia to maintain its leadership within ASEAN for capital market activity. The recent consultation paper by the Securities Commission Malaysia proposing updates to Main and ACE Market listing requirements is anticipated to further enhance Malaysia’s appeal as a destination for IPOs.
On the external front, geopolitical trade tensions are easing, with the US revising reciprocal tariffs downward, benefiting Malaysian exports. Over 60% of Malaysia’s exports to the US are projected to be exempt from tariffs, among the highest in ASEAN. Coupled with the US Federal Reserve resuming its rate cut cycle and Bank Negara Malaysia maintaining the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR), a narrowing of interest rate differentials is expected to positively impact the ringgit and the Malaysian stock market. CGS MY underscored that Malaysia’s investment growth is anchored in strong fundamentals, including political stability, fiscal discipline, and sound governance. Through its capital market leadership, the company aims to support these strengths by fostering collaborations across ASEAN and China while promoting sustainability-focused initiatives.
Domestically, the MADANI government’s economic reforms, including rationalization of subsidies and broadening of the public revenue base, have helped narrow the fiscal deficit from 5.5% of GDP in 2022 to a projected 3.5% in 2026. Strategic initiatives under the MADANI Economy, such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030), have driven investments to record levels, with approved investments hitting RM379 billion in 2024 and maintaining robust growth at RM285 billion for the first nine months of 2025. Looking ahead, the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) campaign targets 31 million tourist arrivals and RM147.1 billion in receipts, creating potential investment opportunities in tourism-related sectors including aviation, retail, healthcare, and REITs. With a combination of strong domestic fundamentals, supportive policies, and strategic international positioning, CGS MY believes Malaysia’s markets are well-poised to move from recovery into a sustained growth phase in 2026, offering attractive prospects for investors and capital market participants alike.
Rumah Ronald McDonald (RMH) di Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia (HPUSM) terus menjadi tempat berteduh dan sumber kekuatan bagi keluarga pesakit pediatrik dari seluruh Pantai Timur yang berdepan detik mencabar. Setiap keluarga yang melangkah masuk ke rumah ini hadir dengan kisah berbeza—ada yang penuh harapan, ada yang sarat kebimbangan—namun semuanya menemui ketenangan, sokongan dan semangat di bawah satu bumbung. Sebagai salah satu daripada empat program teras Persatuan Kebajikan Ronald McDonald Malaysia (RMHC Malaysia), RMH memainkan peranan penting dalam memastikan keluarga pesakit kanak-kanak mendapat ruang selesa untuk berehat, berdoa dan terus kuat menemani anak mereka menjalani rawatan.
Sejak dibuka pada 23 Jun 2019, RMH HPUSM telah memberi manfaat kepada lebih 5,000 keluarga, dan kini menerima hampir 1,000 keluarga setiap tahun, khususnya dari Kelantan, Terengganu dan Pahang. Dengan kemudahan 18 bilik tidur, dapur dan ruang makan yang selesa, bilik dobi, surau serta taman permainan, rumah ini membantu meringankan beban keluarga yang terpaksa menempuh perjalanan jauh untuk berada di sisi anak mereka. Ia bukan sekadar penginapan, tetapi ruang komuniti di mana ibu bapa dapat berkongsi pengalaman, memberi sokongan moral antara satu sama lain dan mengumpul semula tenaga dalam suasana yang lebih tenang berbanding persekitaran hospital.
Antara kemudahan yang disediakan di RMH HPUSM seperti taman permainan, bilik permainan kanak-kanak, bilik terapi sensori, dapur, bilik dobi, bilik tidur dan ruang tamu.
Menurut Pengurus Besar RMHC Malaysia, Mohd Nasri Mohd Nordin, kehadiran RMH menjadi tempat keluarga menarik nafas lega, bersatu dalam doa dan memberikan kekuatan kepada anak-anak mereka untuk terus berjuang. Timbalan Pengarah Klinikal HPUSM, Prof. Dr Zaidi bin Zakaria turut menegaskan bahawa kehadiran keluarga dekat dengan pesakit memberi impak besar terhadap pemulihan menyeluruh kanak-kanak, sekaligus menjadikan RMH sebagai elemen penting dalam proses penyembuhan yang lebih holistik. Kisah-kisah seperti yang dikongsikan oleh Wan Siti Rodiah, seorang ibu yang pernah bergantung kepada RMH untuk menempuh rawatan panjang anaknya, membuktikan betapa besarnya makna rumah ini kepada keluarga yang memerlukan.
Selain RMH HPUSM, terdapat tiga lagi Rumah Ronald McDonald di Malaysia—di HCTM UKM Cheras, Hospital Tunku Azizah Kuala Lumpur dan Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-Kanak Sabah—yang semuanya berfungsi sebagai tempat perlindungan untuk keluarga pesakit pediatrik. RMHC Malaysia turut melaksanakan program lain seperti Bilik Terapi Sensori Ronald McDonald untuk kanak-kanak berkeperluan khas, Program Anugerah Senyuman untuk kanak-kanak yang memerlukan pembedahan klef, dan Pek Kembali ke Sekolah bagi keluarga berpendapatan rendah. Melalui sokongan McDonald’s Malaysia, rakan korporat dan sumbangan masyarakat melalui tabung RMHC, inisiatif ini dapat diteruskan, membolehkan lebih ramai keluarga yang diuji dapat merasai kasih, doa dan harapan yang disalurkan melalui Rumah Ronald McDonald di seluruh negara.
Sesi perkongsian bersama penerima manfaat RMH HPUSM, Puan Rosmawati dan Puan Wan Siti Rodiah yang dikendalikan oleh En Nasri Nordin, Pengurus Besar RMHC Malaysia dan Prof Dr. Zaidi Zakaria, Timbalan Pengarah Klinikal HPUSM.
Many people associate the word “metabolism” with burning calories or losing weight. While weight loss can be one outcome, a healthy metabolism influences far more than physical appearance. It shapes how the body functions, how we feel each day and how well we age. Dr. Luigi Gratton, Vice President of the Office of Health and Wellness and Chair of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board, noted that long-term well-being begins with small daily shifts that support metabolic balance.
Modern lifestyles often place pressure on metabolism. High stress levels elevate cortisol and encourage fat storage. Diets high in processed foods—often loaded with added sugars and low in fibre—can disrupt appetite regulation, gut health and insulin response. Long hours of sitting at work or in traffic reduce muscle activity, slowing down metabolic rate and contributing to energy imbalance.
With Christmas and the festive season approaching, maintaining well-being becomes even more crucial. Global research shows that people typically gain between 0.37 kg to 1.89 kg during holiday periods, and Malaysians are likely to experience similar patterns during local celebrations. Fortunately, intentional changes in everyday habits can make a meaningful difference. Choosing nutrient-dense foods, staying active and prioritising quality sleep can help restore metabolic flexibility and support lasting wellness.
Balancing the plate plays a vital role in metabolic health. Nutrition affects blood sugar control, fat metabolism, gut function, hormone balance and inflammation. Lean protein helps build and maintain muscle mass, which supports a higher resting metabolic rate. Fibre-rich and nutrient-dense foods promote satiety and stable blood sugar levels. Certain botanicals, such as polyphenols found in citrus fruits and capsicum in chilli peppers, may also support metabolic processes. Dr. Gratton emphasised that eating well is not about restriction, but about consistently selecting foods that nourish the body’s metabolic systems. Choosing cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, stewing, baking or stir-frying with minimal oil can also reduce excess calorie intake. Even simple habits like spreading food on the plate at buffets can help prevent overeating.
Movement acts as a powerful catalyst for metabolic health. Physical activity improves blood sugar regulation, enhances insulin sensitivity and helps maintain muscle mass. Both structured exercise and daily activities like brisk walking contribute significant metabolic benefits. Adults are encouraged to accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week. For added benefits, aiming for 60 minutes of moderate-intensity or 30 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per day is recommended. The more we move now, the better we protect mobility and metabolic function as we age.
Rest and recovery are often overlooked but are essential for supporting metabolic processes. During sleep, the body resets metabolic drivers that influence weight, energy and appetite regulation. Quality sleep enhances insulin sensitivity and helps regulate hunger hormones such as leptin and ghrelin. It also reduces cortisol, a stress hormone that can disrupt metabolism. Limiting screen time before bed, keeping a consistent sleep schedule, targeting seven to nine hours of rest and creating a calming nightly routine can help improve sleep quality.
Ultimately, metabolic health is at the core of long-term wellness. It is strengthened through small, consistent habits that support the body’s natural functions. Balanced nutrition, regular movement and restorative sleep work together to improve energy levels, digestion, mood and overall vitality. These habits become especially valuable during festive seasons, when indulgences and irregular routines can challenge the body’s balance. Science shows that even modest daily efforts can make a significant difference, helping you feel better today while protecting your health for the future.
For those who want to explore metabolic health further, Herbalife’s “The Breakdown Mini-Series” on YouTube offers additional insights into how healthy lifestyle choices support long-term well-being.
Diabetes is rising rapidly across the Asia-Pacific region, and APAC is projected to become the largest contributor to the global economic burden of diabetes by 2030. In Malaysia, the 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) reported that 15.6% of adults aged 18 and above are living with diabetes. What is more concerning is that two in five cases remain undiagnosed, while the prevalence of known diabetes has increased to 9.7%.
The NHMS 2023 also revealed that 54.4% of Malaysian adults are overweight or obese, a worrying trend as obesity is one of the major but preventable risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Excessive weight gain significantly increases the risk of insulin resistance, a condition where the body no longer responds effectively to insulin, leading to rising blood sugar levels and eventually diabetes.
Dr. Alex Teo, Director of Research Development and Scientific Affairs for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, explained that this risk is worsened by the fast-paced, stressful, and sedentary lifestyles that are becoming more common in urbanising societies. Long working hours and easy access to fast food often lead to unhealthy snacking and “stress-eating,” where sweet treats and comfort foods become quick solutions to cope with daily stress.
He also highlighted the growing concern of childhood obesity, noting that one in three Malaysian children aged five to seventeen is now overweight or obese. Early childhood obesity increases the risk of lifelong health challenges, including type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases.
It is also important to understand that some individuals may appear slim but still carry excessive internal body fat, a condition known as TOFI (thin outside, fat inside). This is particularly common among Asians and those who consume low-protein diets and lead sedentary lifestyles. Type 2 diabetes often develops silently in its early stages, meaning individuals may have dangerously high blood sugar levels without experiencing any symptoms.
Addressing “diabesity”—the combination of diabetes and obesity—begins by tackling root causes such as poor diet and inactivity. Small daily changes leading to modest weight loss can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Nutrition plays a critical role in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes. High-glycaemic foods such as white bread and sugary snacks cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, which over time can contribute to insulin resistance. Reducing sugary drinks like bubble tea helps lower excess sugar intake. Tapioca pearls, for example, add extra calories and raise the glycaemic index of the drink, contributing to weight gain and poor diabetes control.
In contrast, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—especially those rich in fibre—help stabilise blood sugar by slowing sugar absorption, increasing fullness, and supporting digestion. By focusing on nutritious, minimally processed foods, individuals can better manage blood sugar levels and support overall metabolic health.
Targeted supplementation may also help. Protein increases satiety, supports metabolism, and burns more calories during digestion. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as salmon help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. Magnesium supports glucose metabolism, insulin function, blood pressure regulation, and muscle health—making it easier to stay active and manage weight.
Lifestyle choices play an equally important role. Regular physical activity—at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week—helps regulate weight gain and improve insulin sensitivity. For those who struggle to find time, simple activities such as short walks before and after meals or quick desk stretches can still stabilise blood sugar and improve well-being.
Poor sleep and chronic stress disrupt metabolic functions and increase the risk of diabetes. Prioritising rest and practicing stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing and meditation are essential in regulating stress hormones and supporting healthier metabolic outcomes.
Managing one’s health may feel daunting in the midst of a busy modern routine. However, small, consistent adjustments paired with preventive care and early detection can lead to significantly better long-term outcomes in diabetes prevention and overall health.
For more than 122 years, Ford has remained committed to supporting communities through both challenges and progress, driven by the belief that a stronger future is one that is built together. This principle forms the foundation of Ford’s global corporate social responsibility initiative, ‘Ford Building Together’. In Malaysia, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford (Auto ConneXion-Ford) continued this legacy by reaching 600 beneficiaries from underserved communities across the Klang Valley, Penang, Ipoh and Kuantan through an 11-day campaign that delivered essential food aid and basic healthcare services. The initiative was powered by 55 Ford volunteers.
Auto ConneXion, the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, identified a diverse group of vulnerable recipients, including B40 families, persons with disabilities (OKU), single mothers, Asnaf Fakir and Miskin, as well as Orang Asli communities who would benefit most from the support provided.
The campaign reached communities across four regions, including beneficiaries in the Klang Valley comprising B40, Asnaf and OKU households at Pangsapuri Putra Ria and Abdullah Hukum; B40 and Asnaf groups in George Town and Jalan Patani, Penang; single mothers, B40 families and Asnaf communities in Sungai Rokam, Ipoh; and the Orang Asli community in Kampung Paya Bungor, Gambang, Kuantan.
Jane Holloway, Senior Manager of Ford Philanthropy, International Markets Group, said Ford’s mission extends beyond producing high-quality vehicles. She emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering communities and creating positive, lasting impact. According to her, the Ford Building Together initiative reflects the belief that meaningful change is possible when partners, volunteers and communities work collectively.
A key component of the Malaysian campaign was the deployment of the Ford Mobile Clinic, introduced earlier in February. The mobile clinic is a collaborative effort by Auto ConneXion-Ford, Yayasan Sime Darby, Ford Philanthropy and MyFundAction. Through this initiative, healthcare professionals were mobilised to all four locations to deliver essential healthcare services, especially to rural areas.
Turse Zuhair Nahason Affan, Managing Director of Auto ConneXion-Ford, highlighted that the Malaysian programme aligns closely with the global mission. He stated that bringing the “full power of Ford” to Malaysia goes beyond financial aid. It involves combining employee passion with dealer network strength to meet community needs. He shared that through collaboration, the initiative not only provides critical aid but also fosters lasting relationships and contributes to building a sustainable future.
The success of the Malaysian initiative reflects Ford’s commitment to action, partnership and community empowerment. It was supported by dedicated volunteers from Auto ConneXion-Ford’s management and staff, authorised Ford dealers nationwide and non-profit partner MyFundAction, which played a key role in coordinating on-ground operations.
Turse Zuhair expressed appreciation for the team’s efforts, noting that their time, skills and dedication made the Ford Building Together programme meaningful for all involved. He reiterated the company’s commitment to continuing efforts that drive empowerment and sustainable impact across Malaysia.
The Malaysian activities formed part of Ford’s annual Global Caring Month, a worldwide volunteer initiative under Ford Philanthropy. This contribution supported what became the World’s Largest Auto Dealer Food Drive under the Ford Building Together banner, involving more than 1,600 Ford dealers across 31 countries and collecting over 2 million pounds (907,000 kg) of food — far exceeding the initial target of 500,000 kg.
This latest effort builds on Auto ConneXion-Ford’s longstanding community support in Malaysia through earlier initiatives such as the Clean Water Project in Gerik and Operation Better World in Kuala Lumpur.
MAGGI® is extending the learning journey of the MAGGI® Secondary School Cooking Competition (MSSCC) by introducing an interactive workshop that goes beyond competition day. Built on the belief that skills and positive habits develop through consistent practice, the workshop offers students a richer and more sustained learning experience.
Now in its 28th year, MSSCC continues to be a platform that nurtures young Malaysians into confident and informed everyday cooks. More than a cooking competition, it emphasises lifelong skills such as creativity, teamwork and understanding the basics of balanced meals. This new workshop reflects MAGGI®’s commitment to ensuring that students continue learning long after the finals have ended.
The workshop brought together the five winning teams from MSSCC 2025, joined by professional chefs and a Nestlé nutritionist for a full day of hands-on demonstrations and interactive sessions. Students gained practical knowledge on preparing balanced meals and strengthening kitchen fundamentals. Nutritionist Leong Ven Luan focused on simplifying healthy eating with practical guidance, while Chef Sharifah Hamidah demonstrated recipes that blend convenience, taste and balanced nutrition. Professional chef Naem Ramli guided students through essential kitchen skills, offering techniques to boost confidence and reinforce the lessons learned during MSSCC. Former MSSCC 2016 champion, Chef Ariff, also inspired participants by sharing how the competition shaped his journey from a student to a professional chef.
The workshop emphasised the importance of cultivating healthy cooking habits, especially as young Malaysians often struggle to maintain nutritious diets amid busy schedules. Chef Sharifah shared that balanced eating does not need to be complicated or costly, highlighting that the right fundamentals can help students make healthier choices every day. Extending MSSCC beyond the competition ensures that students continue practising balanced cooking in real-life settings.
Students responded positively to the experience. Muhammad Amsyar Haikal bin Abdullah from SMK Belara, Kuala Terengganu, expressed gratitude for the chance to learn directly from chefs and a nutritionist. He shared that the hands-on training opened his eyes to essential techniques such as proper knife handling, balanced meal preparation and understanding nutrition — lessons that will influence his daily habits moving forward.
Chef Naem, participating in his first MAGGI® workshop, said it was meaningful to guide young Malaysians through hands-on learning. He emphasised that teaching kitchen skills, safety and hygiene also builds confidence and nurtures the value of balanced eating. Developing these habits early helps shape a generation that prioritises mindful and healthier food choices.
With programmes like MSSCC and its extended workshops, MAGGI® continues its mission to develop a generation of knowledgeable and capable home cooks. The values of balanced eating, practical skills and positive cooking habits are carried from competition halls into homes and communities across Malaysia.
The journey to better health often comes with the pressure of making drastic changes, but that need not always be the case. Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, shared that through her years of experience as a nutritionist, she has realised that improved health—more energy, deeper sleep, and better focus—often begins with the simplest changes that are both practical and consistent. At the centre of it all is our gut.
Revisiting traditional foods can be a powerful step toward nurturing gut health, something Asian diets have naturally supported for centuries. Yet, amidst the pressures of modern life, rice bowls are often replaced with fast food, fibre-rich vegetables with processed snacks, and nourishing herbal broths with sugary sodas.
Studies show that this dietary shift has become increasingly common across Asia and has been accompanied by a rise in digestive concerns such as bloating, acid reflux, irritable bowel symptoms, and more serious digestive disorders. The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) reported that diseases of the digestive system ranked among the top ten causes of hospitalisation in 2023, accounting for 6.43 percent of total cases. They were also among the top ten causes of death in both MOH and private hospitals, at 4.49 percent and 3.43 percent respectively.
“I don’t mean to sound alarms but rather offer a gentle nudge—to pause and reflect on what our bodies truly need, and how our simple choices can make all the difference in achieving sustained wellness,” Dr. Sae-Lao said.
The digestive system plays a critical role in our overall wellbeing. Often referred to as the “second brain,” the gut communicates closely with the brain to manage digestive processes. It influences immunity, metabolism, energy levels, and even mental health. The gut is home to a variety of microorganisms that break down food we cannot digest, produce essential vitamins, and protect us from harmful germs. These microbes keep the gut lining strong and support immune development, particularly in the early stages of life.
Ironically, one of the biggest barriers to better gut health is the very food we eat. Many of today’s common meals are deficient in phytonutrients, dietary fibre, and key nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamin D. Modern eating habits, heavily influenced by the western world, often include processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. These can disrupt the natural balance of the gut microbiome, trigger inflammation, and lead to issues such as constipation, reflux, or bloating. Over time, they may increase the risk of long-term health complications.
The solution, however, can be simple. By understanding what our bodies truly need and nourishing them with mindful traditions, gut health can be restored. Making such changes is practical even in today’s hectic world. It is not about a dramatic overhaul but about small, intentional shifts that gradually become lasting habits. The goal is to take back control, one plate at a time.
Asian diets, rooted in both culture and science, provide a strong foundation for healthier living. Rich in vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods, these diets supply fibre, healthy fats, and essential nutrients that support digestion, heart health, and overall wellness. Choosing cooking methods like steaming, boiling, grilling, or stir-frying helps reduce oil use while preserving nutrients. Fermented foods such as kimchi, miso, yogurt, pickles, and kombucha provide probiotics that strengthen the immune system and fortify gut health. Herbs and spices like ginger, turmeric, garlic, and fennel not only add flavour but also carry natural digestive and medicinal benefits.
To further support gut health, dietary fibre plays a crucial role. Herbalife Mixed Fibres with Inulin Powder Drink offers a convenient option for increasing daily fibre intake, especially for those who struggle to consume enough fruits and vegetables. With both soluble and insoluble fibres, it helps maintain digestion and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Beyond ingredients, mindful eating practices have always been part of Asian traditions. Paying attention to portion sizes, chewing thoroughly, savouring each bite, and eating without distractions allows the body to activate digestive enzymes and improves nutrient absorption. These habits also strengthen gut-brain communication, regulating hunger and fullness cues.
Traditional diets emphasise balance, care, and connection. A good starting point is to understand how different foods interact with our unique bodies. Research shows that people respond differently to the same foods based on their gut bacteria, making a one-size-fits-all diet less effective. Personalised nutrition can help identify which foods enhance digestion, reduce inflammation, and support better overall health.
Combining traditional food wisdom with practical habits for modern living creates a sustainable path forward. Planning meals, preparing ingredients in advance, or batch cooking can make it easier to maintain healthy routines on busy days.
Simple daily habits also contribute to gut health and overall wellness. Staying hydrated, engaging in enjoyable physical activities like walking, stretching, or gym sessions, and ensuring quality sleep all support the body’s natural healing.
The first step is to start small. Swap one meal, slow down for one bite, and tune into what feels good for your body. As Dr. Sae-Lao encourages, “Your gut can lead the way—just listen closely.”
