MalaysianUpdates

Category: Technology

  • HONOR Drives Tourism Promotion with Magic Stories Awards 2026 and Nationwide Photography Workshop Tour

    HONOR Drives Tourism Promotion with Magic Stories Awards 2026 and Nationwide Photography Workshop Tour

    HONOR Malaysia has announced the inaugural Magic Stories Awards 2026 alongside a nationwide photography workshop tour designed to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes and vibrant everyday moments to a global audience. The initiative aims to empower photographers to capture the essence of Malaysia using HONOR smartphones, while supporting the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign through a combination of content creation, community engagement and advanced mobile imaging technology to position Malaysia as a leading travel destination.

    The HONOR Magic Stories Awards 2026 invites Malaysians to capture and share compelling visual stories across six themes: cityscapes, people and culture, nature, food, hidden gems and animals. A total of 21 winners will be recognised across various categories, celebrating creativity and storytelling through mobile photography. The top prize, Photographer of the Year, will receive a flagship foldable smartphone, while two winners in the Master of Photography category will each be awarded the HONOR Magic8 Pro. Three Prestigious Photographers will receive the HONOR 600 Pro, while 15 HONORable Photographers will each take home the HONOR 600. Submissions are open from 27 April to 15 September 2026, with winners to be announced in October 2026. All entries must be captured using HONOR smartphones, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to advancing mobile photography as a powerful creative medium. Winning entries will be showcased at HONOR exhibitions, selected shopping malls nationwide and across the brand’s official social media platforms. Selected winners will also be fast-tracked to the finalist stage of the global HONOR Magic Stories Awards 2026, offering an opportunity for international recognition.

    Complementing the awards programme, the HONOR Magic Stories Photography Workshop will be held across multiple locations nationwide, offering participants hands-on opportunities to capture Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, cultures and communities. Running from 9 May to 11 July 2026, the workshop series will cover seven locations across six states, beginning at The Habitat Penang Hill with a focus on architecture and cityscape photography, followed by Rumah Singgora in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Taman Negara in Pahang, Eufloria Gardens and Sculpture Park in Genting Highlands, Sosodikon Hill and Desa Dairy Farm in Sabah, Wang Kelian View Point in Perlis, and Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching. Participants will explore themes such as culture, nature and portrait photography while experiencing the flagship camera capabilities of the HONOR 600 Pro, enabling them to interpret and share uniquely Malaysian stories through their own creative perspectives.

    The HONOR Magic Stories Photography Workshop is supported by CelcomDigi as the Official Connectivity Partner, ensuring participants benefit from reliable high-speed connectivity to create and share content seamlessly throughout the campaign. More information on the HONOR Magic Stories Awards 2026 and workshop registration is available on HONOR Malaysia’s official website.

  • August Debut: 118 Mall Ready to Transform KL’s Shopping Landscape

    August Debut: 118 Mall Ready to Transform KL’s Shopping Landscape

    An animated new chapter for Kuala Lumpur is set to commence this August as 118 Mall prepares for its official opening at the base of the world’s second-tallest tower. Situated within the historic Merdeka 118 precinct, the mall serves as a sophisticated bridge between the city’s rich heritage and a modern lifestyle, located within close proximity to Petaling Street, Stadium Merdeka, and Stadium Negara. As the initial phase of tenants begins interior fit-outs, the destination is entering the final stages of its transformation into a premier global landmark.

    A sky-lit sanctuary: The Atmosphere on Level 4 features a spectacular 88-meter glass dome and 20,000 sq. ft. of event space powered by immersive LED screens.

    A primary highlight of the development is the Malaysian Artisan District, a sprawling 80,000 sq. ft. space dedicated to celebrating local craftsmanship and creativity. This energetic gallery features the Makanizm Food Hall on Level 3, a 40,000 sq. ft. culinary destination focused on Malaysia’s renowned food scene. Visitors will experience a curated selection of international flagship stores alongside premium homegrown brands, including specialty offerings from Kenny Hills Cafe, ZUS Coffee, Oriental Kopi, and Serai Premium.

    A spectacular sight from the Level 3 artisan sanctuary, capturing the seamless blend of local craftsmanship and the luminous heights above.

    The retail portfolio is equally comprehensive, featuring flagship concepts from global brands such as Skechers and Decathlon, complemented by the exquisite craftsmanship of Habib Jewels. The lifestyle selection further includes high-street names like Coach, Hackett London, and Cole Haan. For daily essentials and family needs, the mall introduces the highly anticipated SOGO118—a contemporary evolution of the iconic SOGO brand—together with Village Grocer and HappiKiddo.

    Rising above the retail levels is The Atmosphere on Level 4, an impressive 20,000 sq. ft. event piazza. This spirited social stage is illuminated by natural sunlight through a spectacular 88-meter diameter glass dome and features three massive LED screens designed for immersive digital art and live content. With over 70% of the retail space already committed, 118 Mall is positioned as a significant contributor to the “Visit Malaysia 2026” calendar, inviting the global community to “Live Your Story” starting this August.

  • HONOR 600 Series Kicks Off with Strong Demand, Crowds Flock to Stores

    HONOR 600 Series Kicks Off with Strong Demand, Crowds Flock to Stores

    The newly launched HONOR 600 Series has made a strong debut, with first-day sales officially kicking off today and HONOR Experience Stores nationwide attracting large crowds of eager consumers keen to experience and purchase the latest flagship smartphones. This encouraging retail performance follows a record-breaking pre-order phase on 23 April, during which the series recorded an impressive 153% increase in first-day sales compared to its predecessor, highlighting strong consumer confidence and growing demand for HONOR’s flagship innovations in the Malaysian market.

    The success of the HONOR 600 Series is driven by its positioning as an “Accessible Flagship,” meeting the needs of Malaysian consumers who are increasingly seeking devices that can keep pace with a fast-moving digital lifestyle. The series delivers on this expectation by combining an upgraded flagship camera system with the creative capabilities of AI Image-to-Video 2.0 technology, alongside a powerful battery and a best-in-class display. This combination provides a comprehensive and versatile experience for both content creators and power users, redefining what an accessible flagship smartphone can offer.

    Customers who purchase the HONOR 600 Series will receive a complimentary gift bundle worth up to RM1,326, which includes a RM200 instant rebate, a free HONOR Watch X5i, and additional protection benefits such as a 365-day front and back crack replacement service, a one-year extended warranty, and a one-year liquid damage protection warranty. The HONOR 600 Pro is priced at RM3,099 for the 12GB+256GB variant and RM3,299 for the 512GB version, while the HONOR 600 with 12GB+512GB is priced at RM2,599. Both models are available in Orange, Golden White, and Black, and can be purchased at HONOR Experience Stores nationwide, as well as through HONOR Malaysia’s official online store and authorised platforms including Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

    In terms of innovation, the HONOR 600 Series is equipped with a 200MP Super Sensing Main Camera supported by CIPA 6.5-level image stabilisation, ensuring professional-grade clarity even at up to 120x zoom. At the core of this system is the enhanced AI Image-to-Video 2.0 technology, powered by HONOR’s next-generation AI imaging engine, which enables users to transform static images into immersive, cinematic stories directly on the device without the need for third-party applications. This unlocks new creative possibilities, allowing users to craft imaginative visuals such as impossible hugs, lasting memories, and dreamlike journeys.

    The HONOR 600 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship chipset, while the HONOR 600 runs on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, delivering significant improvements in speed, intelligence, and efficiency. Supporting this performance is a best-in-segment 7,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, designed for extended usage. The series also offers a premium visual experience with an ultra-bright display reaching up to 8000 nits, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight, along with 3840Hz risk-free PWM dimming technology to reduce flicker and enhance eye comfort during prolonged use.

    Built to withstand real-world conditions, the devices come with an IP69K rating for superior water and dust resistance and feature a reinforced structural design. This ensures that the HONOR 600 Series achieves a balance between premium elegance and durable reliability. For more information, consumers can follow HONOR Malaysia’s official Facebook page or visit www.honor.com/my/.

  • Bolt Launches Cost-Saving Ride Options with Multi-Stop Feature and 25% Fare Reductions

    With fuel prices climbing and everyday expenses rising, many Malaysians are rethinking how they get around. Ride-hailing service Bolt Malaysia is stepping in with new features and savings aimed at making daily commutes more affordable and convenient.

    One of the standout updates is the platform’s multi-stop ride feature, which lets users include up to three destinations in a single booking. This means friends, colleagues, or even family members heading in the same direction can share one ride and split the cost. It’s a practical solution that not only reduces expenses but also makes travel more efficient.

    Bolt says users can enjoy savings of up to 35 percent per journey when using shared routes, depending on the distance and number of stops. On top of that, the platform is offering ride discounts of up to 25 percent, providing even more relief for those managing tight budgets.

    Behind these savings is Bolt’s efficient operating model, which allows the company to keep fares competitive. According to General Manager Afzan Lutfi, the goal is to offer real value in everyday commuting, especially at a time when many are feeling the pinch of rising costs.

    Beyond affordability, Bolt is also improving reliability. More drivers are being made available during peak hours to reduce long waits and avoid price surges. The ride scheduling feature further enhances convenience by allowing users to plan trips ahead of time, ensuring smoother journeys throughout the day.

  • Bateriku and SVOLT Ink Strategic Partnership to Enhance EV After-Sales Infrastructure for Malaysian Owners

    Bateriku and SVOLT Ink Strategic Partnership to Enhance EV After-Sales Infrastructure for Malaysian Owners

    The strategic partnership between Bateriku and SVOLT Energy Technology Co. Ltd. represents a pivotal advancement in Malaysia’s transition toward a sustainable electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. Formally announced on 21 April 2026, this collaboration is specifically designed to enhance the after-sales support infrastructure, thereby addressing a critical factor in consumer confidence and the broader adoption of electric mobility within the nation. As the Malaysian automotive industry undergoes a rapid shift toward electrification, the necessity for specialized diagnostics, technical maintenance, and reliable support services has become paramount. SVOLT, a premier global manufacturer of high-performance battery technology and a strategic supplier to international entities such as Geely and Great Wall Motors, further underscores its significance in the local market through its technological integration in the Proton e.MAS 7.

    Under the terms of this alliance, Bateriku will significantly expand its operational capabilities to provide a more comprehensive suite of services tailored to the EV segment. The partnership prioritizes key pillars of the ownership experience, including the implementation of sophisticated EV battery system diagnostics, specialized on-site technical support, and the development of structured, high-efficiency battery replacement protocols. This strategic expansion is intended to provide Malaysian vehicle owners with access to a more responsive and technologically advanced support network, directly aligning with the requirements of modern, sustainable mobility.

    L-R YingTao Hao (Director SVOLT Energy Technology Co. Ltd., Azarol Faizi (CEO Bateriku), Lee Nyuk Kiat (Manager Bateriku)

    Furthermore, the agreement emphasizes the importance of human capital development through specialized training and upskilling initiatives within the Bateriku ecosystem. These programs are designed to cultivate technical expertise in advanced battery diagnostics, as well as the rigorous procedures required for battery handling and replacement. By prioritizing the professional development of the local workforce, both organizations are ensuring that the industry is sufficiently prepared to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and technology-driven automotive landscape.

    The partnership was formalized at SVOLT’s advanced manufacturing facility in the Jintan District, Changzhou City, China, in a ceremony presided over by Yingtao Hao, Director of SVOLT Energy Technology, and Azarol Faizi, Chief Executive Officer of Bateriku. During the proceedings, Azarol Faizi remarked that the collaboration serves to reinforce Bateriku’s commitment to providing Malaysian EV owners with efficient and reliable support solutions. Yingtao Hao added that the synergy between SVOLT’s global technological leadership and Bateriku’s extensive service infrastructure will facilitate a more secure and assured ownership experience for consumers.

    By integrating SVOLT’s international technological expertise with Bateriku’s established nationwide operational framework, this partnership acts as a primary catalyst in accelerating Malaysia’s aspirations for greener and more intelligent mobility. It signifies a major milestone in the development of a resilient EV ecosystem, contributing to the nation’s long-term objectives for a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

  • Samsung Elevates Galaxy S26 Ultra with Global Collaboration for The Devil Wears Prada 2 Premiere

    Samsung Elevates Galaxy S26 Ultra with Global Collaboration for The Devil Wears Prada 2 Premiere

    Jin, played by actress Helen J. Shen, uses Galaxy S26 Ultra in the movie “The Devil Wears Prada 2”

    Haley Kalil brings a personal and relatable dimension to Samsung’s global collaboration with The Devil Wears Prada 2. As a Galaxy S26 Ultra user and influencer, Haley played an active role in showcasing how the device enhances real-life experiences, particularly in high-profile settings like a global film premiere.

    Galaxy S26 ultra powers the first-ever Runway Cam #withGalaxy, capturing red carpet moments in cinematic quality

    Attending the premiere, Haley documented her entire journey using the Galaxy S26 Ultra, from preparation to red carpet moments. Through features like Circle to Search with Google, she demonstrated how the device supports quick decision-making, styling inspiration, and real-time problem solving. Her content offered followers an authentic behind-the-scenes look at how technology integrates into everyday routines.

    Haley Kalil attends the world premiere of The Devil Wears Prada 2 at Lincoln Center in New York, New York on April 20, 2026. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for 20th Century Studios)

    Beyond the red carpet, Haley took to social media to share her excitement about the collaboration, expressing her love for both the film franchise and her Galaxy device. Her posts resonated strongly with audiences, bridging the gap between aspirational celebrity culture and relatable user experiences.

    NEW YORK, NEW YORK – April 20:(L-R) Anne Hathwat, Stanley Tucci, Meryl Streeo and Emily Blunt attend the world premiere of The Devil Wears Prada 2 at Lincoln Centre in New York, New York on April 20, 2026 (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for 20th Century Studios)

    This influencer-driven approach reflects Samsung’s strategy to connect with digitally savvy audiences through real voices and lived experiences. By empowering creators like Haley, Samsung amplifies the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s capabilities in a way that feels genuine and engaging, reinforcing its position as a lifestyle essential in today’s connected world.

  • HONOR 600 Series Unveiled First in Malaysia, Redefining Accessible Flagship Power 

    Malaysia steps into the global spotlight as the launchpad for the all-new HONOR 600 Series, signalling a bold leap forward in the brand’s innovation journey. Designed to bring flagship-level performance to a wider audience, the lineup introduces both Pro and standard models loaded with next-generation features.

    Merging intelligent AI with premium hardware, the HONOR 600 Series redefines what users can expect from a smartphone. From its powerful camera system to the upgraded AI Image to Video 2.0, every feature is built to enhance creativity and everyday use. Backed by a massive 7,000mAh battery and driven by Snapdragon flagship processors, the devices deliver long-lasting performance alongside a stunning display and durable build, all starting from RM2,599.

    Early buyers are in for added value, with pre-orders open until 29 April 2026. Customers can enjoy an instant RM200 rebate, along with exclusive gifts worth up to RM1,935. Depending on the model, perks include the Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay+ or the HONOR CHOICE Watch 2 Epic, as well as extended warranty and protection coverage for extra peace of mind.

    Photography takes centre stage with a cutting-edge 200MP main camera and advanced zoom capabilities, capturing remarkable detail in any setting. The enhanced AI Image to Video 2.0 further pushes creative boundaries, turning static images into dynamic short videos effortlessly with no editing apps required.

    Under the hood, performance remains seamless and responsive. The Pro variant, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, handles demanding tasks with ease, while both models feature ultra-bright displays with eye-comfort technology, ensuring a smooth viewing experience even under harsh sunlight.

    Built for real-world use, the HONOR 600 Series combines endurance and resilience, offering fast charging, long battery life, and strong protection against water, dust, and accidental drops. Wrapped in stylish finishes of Orange, Golden White and Black, the HONOR 600 Series will be available nationwide from 30 April 2026, reinforcing HONOR’s mission to make powerful, intelligent technology more accessible than ever.

  • vivo V70 FE Roadshow Kicks Off with DOLLA and Free Gifts Worth Up to RM1,027

    vivo V70 FE Roadshow Kicks Off with DOLLA and Free Gifts Worth Up to RM1,027

    In celebration of the vivo V70 FE’s debut, vivo Malaysia is encouraging Malaysians to explore their creativity through the “See the Beauty of Malaysia in 200MP” Portrait Challenge. Organised in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, the campaign runs from 20 April to 10 May 2026 and invites participants to showcase Malaysia’s diverse culture through portrait photography.

    The challenge highlights the capabilities of the vivo V70 FE, particularly its 200MP OIS Ultra-Clear camera, which allows users to capture stunning details with professional-level clarity. Participants can submit entries across themes such as traditional wear, cultural performances, street vendors, and iconic landmarks, celebrating the richness of Malaysian identity.

    Open to all smartphone users, the contest offers exciting rewards, including a vivo V70 FE for the grand prize winner and cash prizes for selected participants. By combining technology with storytelling, the campaign aims to inspire Malaysians to rediscover and share the beauty of their surroundings.

    For more information, check out vivo Malaysia’s official site: https://www.vivo.com/my, connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vivoMalaysia/, and follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivo_malaysia/.

  • CelcomDigi Bawa Pengalaman Peruncitan Digital Menyeluruh ke Seluruh Negara

    CelcomDigi Berhad (“CelcomDigi”) terus memperkasa pengalaman peruncitan telekomunikasi di Malaysia menerusi pelancaran Endless Aisle di seluruh negara hasil kerjasama dengan Samsung Malaysia. Inisiatif ini merupakan satu langkah penting dalam mendekatkan penawaran gaya hidup digital kepada pelanggan melalui rangkaian kedai CelcomDigi. Sebagai syarikat telekomunikasi pertama di Malaysia yang menawarkan pengalaman peruncitan elektronik pengguna di lebih daripada 300 kedai di seluruh negara, CelcomDigi kini menyediakan kaedah yang lebih mudah dan menyeluruh untuk pelanggan memilih, membeli, menerima serta menghubungkan peranti mereka dalam satu kunjungan. Endless Aisle kini boleh didapati di semua CelcomDigi Store dan CelcomDigi Express di seluruh negara.

    Inisiatif ini mula diperkenalkan sebagai projek perintis di CelcomDigi Store Life di The Gardens dan Sunway Pyramid, sekali gus menjadi pengalaman pertama seumpamanya dalam sektor peruncitan telekomunikasi di Malaysia. Platform digital imersif ini menghimpunkan rangkaian terkini produk gaya hidup digital Samsung seperti telefon pintar, peranti boleh pakai, televisyen pintar, peralatan rumah serta pelbagai elektronik gaya hidup, bersama tawaran penjimatan eksklusif untuk pelanggan CelcomDigi. Dengan peluasan ke lebih banyak lokasi, pelanggan kini dapat menikmati pengalaman yang lebih intuitif dalam meneroka teknologi terhubung terkini, dibantu oleh pakar di kedai CelcomDigi yang memastikan setiap peranti yang dibeli dapat disambungkan dengan lancar.

    Ketua Pegawai Jualan dan Peruncitan CelcomDigi, Cheng Weng Hong, berkata bahawa dengan lebih 20 juta rakyat Malaysia dilayani melalui salah satu rangkaian peruncitan terbesar di negara ini, CelcomDigi berada dalam kedudukan kukuh untuk membentuk evolusi gaya hidup terhubung di Malaysia. Menurut beliau, inisiatif ini mencerminkan komitmen berterusan syarikat dalam meningkatkan pengalaman kehidupan terhubung dengan menawarkan lebih banyak kemudahan, pilihan serta nilai yang lebih baik kepada pengguna.

    Beliau turut menegaskan bahawa peruncitan fizikal kekal sebagai pemacu strategik syarikat, yang mendorong usaha berterusan untuk meneroka pendekatan baharu serta menjalin kerjasama inovatif bagi memperkayakan pengalaman pelanggan. Kerjasama dengan Samsung Malaysia mencerminkan aspirasi tersebut, sekali gus membolehkan CelcomDigi menjadi antara perintis dalam memperkenalkan pengalaman peruncitan yang lebih lancar dan bersedia untuk masa hadapan. Pelanggan kini berpeluang memilih dan menikmati peranti serta teknologi rumah terkini dengan lebih mudah, di samping mengukuhkan pendekatan berteraskan pelanggan yang menjadikan teknologi lebih mudah diakses.

    Sementara itu, Ketua Elektronik Pengguna Samsung Malaysia Electronics, Steven Koh, berkata bahawa pihaknya komited untuk menjadikan inovasi lebih mudah diakses dan relevan dalam kehidupan seharian. Kerjasama dengan CelcomDigi membolehkan ekosistem peranti terhubung dibawa lebih dekat kepada rakyat Malaysia, sekali gus mewujudkan pengalaman yang lancar daripada peringkat penemuan hingga pemilikan. Usaha ini juga bertujuan memudahkan pengguna menikmati kehidupan pintar dengan tahap kemudahan yang lebih baik.

    Melalui Endless Aisle, pelanggan CelcomDigi turut menikmati pelbagai penjimatan menarik, termasuk diskaun sebanyak 15 peratus untuk pelanggan sedia ada atau baharu yang melanggan mana-mana pelan CelcomDigi, diskaun 30 peratus melalui pakej peranti CelcomDigi–Samsung, serta tawaran eksklusif tambahan untuk pelanggan CelcomDigi ONE Plan. Untuk maklumat lanjut, orang ramai boleh melayari laman web rasmi CelcomDigi di https://www.celcomdigi.com.

  • Google’s Semarak Malaysia Fund: A New Chapter for Selangor Communities

    Google’s Semarak Malaysia Fund: A New Chapter for Selangor Communities

    Global community platform ChangeX and Google have joined forces to launch the Google Semarak Malaysia Fund: Selangor. This strategic initiative is designed to ignite local grassroots action and drive long-term sustainable growth across the state.

    Managed by ChangeX, the fund transforms Google’s commitment to the region into tangible local action. By investing directly in the neighborhoods it calls home, Google is empowering Selangor’s residents to champion projects in digital literacy, workforce skilling, and environmental sustainability.

    The fund offers a versatile toolkit for progress, allowing local schools and organizations to adopt proven community-building models. Key initiatives include:

    • Future-Ready Careers: Direct funding for vocational training and digital upskilling.
    • Entrepreneurial Support: Helping low-income business owners master digital and financial tools.
    • Green Skills: Training community leaders to run repair workshops that build technical expertise and reduce waste.

    Distinctively, the fund also encourages local innovation by inviting organizations to apply for funding for their own unique, homegrown projects.

    “We look forward to working with communities across Selangor to build practical skills and deliver sustainable initiatives in areas like water stewardship and energy affordability,” said Utaukwa Allen, Global Head of Economic Development & Data Centers at Google. “ChangeX brings the perfect experience to help us support these community-led actions.”

    Niamh McKenna, Co-founder and Head of Impact at ChangeX, noted: “By combining proven ideas with the freedom to address specific local needs, we are giving Selangor’s changemakers the resources they need to thrive.”

    Eligible applicants can apply for a pre-vetted project or pitch a unique community initiative, with grants available up to RM30,000.

    The application window closes on June 9, 2026. Interested parties can learn more and apply at: https://bit.ly/4bB8kjI.