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  • Batik Air Expands Penang Operations, Launching Direct Services to Singapore and Medan

    Batik Air Expands Penang Operations, Launching Direct Services to Singapore and Medan

    Batik Air has officially expanded its northern Malaysia network with the launch of two strategic routes from Penang International Airport (PEN): Penang–Singapore and Penang–Medan. The airline’s latest move underscores its commitment to developing Penang as a northern hub and reinforcing regional travel links across Southeast Asia.

    Singapore remains a powerhouse tourism market for Malaysia, contributing over 14.0 million visitors between January and August 2025. The launch of direct flights between Penang and Singapore is set to stimulate even greater travel flow between the two destinations. The route caters to a diverse mix of travellers—including leisure tourists, corporate guests, and frequent weekend travellers—offering them fast and convenient access to Penang’s attractions, culinary scene, and world-class hospitality.

    The Penang–Medan connection expands opportunities for travellers from Indonesia, particularly those seeking medical care. Penang’s globally recognized hospitals and medical specialists have long attracted Indonesian families in search of trusted treatment and wellness services. By introducing direct services, Batik Air further enhances accessibility and strengthens Penang’s reputation as a medical tourism hub.

    Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air, explained that the addition of these routes aligns with the airline’s vision of creating a robust and future-ready network. With existing services to Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, Batik Air is now positioned to deliver even stronger connectivity from Penang and better meet the growing needs of regional travellers.

    Penang’s tourism leadership welcomed the expansion, emphasizing that improved connectivity is crucial to driving economic growth and increasing international footfall. YB Wong Hon Wai highlighted that these new routes support Penang’s strategic goals in tourism, business, and medical travel, especially ahead of major national campaigns such as Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Malaysia Medical Tourism Year 2026. Tourism Malaysia also praised the launch, noting its importance in achieving the nation’s tourism objectives.

    The launch of these new flights signifies a forward-looking step for Penang, enabling smoother regional travel and setting the stage for increased tourism, cross-border business, and healthcare-driven mobility. With strengthened links to Singapore and Indonesia, Penang’s status as a northern gateway continues to rise—bringing the region closer to the world.

  • PHB Adopts GROW with SAP to Accelerate Its Digital Transformation Journey

    PHB Adopts GROW with SAP to Accelerate Its Digital Transformation Journey

    Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad (PHB), a prominent real estate investment holding company in Malaysia, has embarked on a significant digital transformation journey through its adoption of GROW with SAP, a comprehensive solution by SAP SE designed to modernize core business operations using a standardized, cloud-based framework. Established in 2006 under Yayasan Pelaburan Bumiputra, PHB plays a key national role in expanding Bumiputera ownership of prime commercial real estate via its shariah-compliant unit trust fund, Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera (AHB). Today, the company oversees a portfolio exceeding MYR 11 billion, covering commercial, retail, healthcare, logistics, and education assets across Malaysia’s major urban regions. As PHB expands and strengthens its strategic business growth, it has consistently delivered stable returns to AHB unitholders. However, its rapid expansion also highlighted digital gaps, including outdated, fragmented systems that posed operational challenges. Recognizing the need for a unified, intelligent digital backbone, PHB selected GROW with SAP to streamline operations, enhance compliance, and increase efficiency.

    Through this transition, PHB will migrate its finance, contract administration, and lease management functions into a single cloud-based ERP platform, creating an integrated digital environment that delivers real-time data visibility and automated workflows. This transformation is expected to eliminate data silos, improve accuracy, reduce compliance risks, and drive faster, more informed decision-making across the organization. PHB Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mohamad Damshal Awang Damit, emphasized that this move is a strategic investment aimed at future-proofing the organization and ensuring operational agility in an increasingly complex property market. SAP Malaysia Managing Director, Vipin Chandran, also noted that PHB’s adoption reflects a rising trend among Malaysian companies leveraging cloud innovation to stay competitive and resilient. With plans to go live by January 2026, PHB is also exploring future enhancements, including AI-driven insights and automation of key processes such as Procure-to-Pay, positioning the company for sustainable, technology-enabled growth in the years ahead.

  • Acara Istimewa: Panggung Puting Beliung Tenxi – Hari Kedua Tarikh: 11 Januari 2026 (Ahad)

    Acara Istimewa: Panggung Puting Beliung Tenxi – Hari Kedua Tarikh: 11 Januari 2026 (Ahad)

    Selepas menerima sambutan hangat dengan tiket habis dijual dalam masa 30 minit pada Hari Pertama, Tenxi kembali dengan kejutan yang lebih besar untuk para peminatnya melalui pengumuman rasmi HARI KEDUA bagi persembahan istimewa bertajuk Special Show: Panggung Puting Beliung Tenxi. Malam kedua ini dijangka membawa pengalaman yang lebih hebat, mendalam, dan penuh kejutan, sambil mengekalkan lokasi dan masa yang sama seperti persembahan pertama. Tenxi turut menekankan bahawa sokongan para peminat, atau Tenxiholic, adalah sumber inspirasi, tenaga, dan semangat dalam perjalanan kariernya, dan pembukaan Hari Kedua ini merupakan penghargaan kepada mereka yang tidak sempat mendapatkan tiket pada pelancaran Hari Pertama.

    Selain itu, malam kedua ini dijangka menyaksikan persembahan istimewa dari ANTI NRML, yang akan diumumkan tidak lama lagi, menambah lagi elemen eksklusif dan menarik untuk pengunjung. Tenxi menegaskan bahawa Hari Kedua bukan sekadar ulang tayang, tetapi satu pengalaman baharu yang membolehkan peminat menyanyi bersama, menikmati muzik tanpa batas, serta melepaskan segala tekanan seketika. Dengan tema “cool W8 it kerana sudah DIBERI AKSES untuk malam KEDUA gaiss!”, Tenxi mahu setiap peminat merasai energi luar biasa yang digambarkan sebagai ‘puting beliung’—penuh dengan semangat, keseronokan, dan cinta dari peminat untuk artis kesayangan mereka.

    Misi utama Tenxi untuk Hari Kedua ini adalah membawa peminat keluar seketika dari kesibukan hidup harian, masuk ke dalam dunia muzik yang sarat dengan tenaga, keajaiban, dan pengalaman unik yang tidak akan dilupakan. Dengan interaksi yang lebih dekat bersama peminat, persembahan ini diharap menjadi platform untuk Tenxi berkongsi tenaga positif dan muzik yang menyembuhkan, membina kenangan indah, serta mengukuhkan hubungan istimewa dengan komuniti Tenxiholic. Para peminat kini boleh menandakan kalendar mereka untuk malam yang dijanjikan penuh kegembiraan, kehangatan, dan magic, memastikan Hari Kedua Panggung Puting Beliung Tenxi menjadi detik yang tidak dapat dilupakan dalam dunia hiburan tempatan.

    JUALAN TIKET DIBUKA MULAI:
    Rabu, 10 Disember 2025 Jam 15:00 Petang
    Kategori Tiket & Harga:

    • RM 250 – hoRRReg
    • RM 220 – Apa Lagi
    • RM 180 – 1/10
    • RM 150 – Cuba Lagi
    • RM 5,000 – Puting Beliung Box
      Termasuk 10 pax + Signature Poster & F&B Snacks

      Tiket dijual dengan harga mampu milik agar seluruh Tenxiholic dapat merasai sendiri kehangatan, energi dan MAGIC Tenxi secara langsung.

      Pembelian tiket tersedia di:
      https://www.ticket2u.com.my/TenxiDay2
  • HONOR Magic8 Pro Draws Massive Crowds During Weekend Sales Across Experience Stores Nationwide!

    HONOR Magic8 Pro Draws Massive Crowds During Weekend Sales Across Experience Stores Nationwide!

    The HONOR Magic8 Pro has made a remarkable debut in Malaysia, drawing massive crowds to HONOR Experience Stores nationwide during its first weekend of sales. The highly anticipated flagship, hailed as the Master-Grade Imaging Flagship, captivated consumers with its state-of-the-art camera system and innovative features, generating unprecedented excitement among tech enthusiasts. The pinnacle of the weekend frenzy was observed at the grand opening of the HONOR Experience Store in IOI City Mall, Putrajaya, where visitors lined up to explore the device first-hand, signaling the strong demand and enthusiasm for the latest HONOR flagship.

    The launch success was further amplified by HONOR’s commitment to delivering unmatched consumer value. Every purchase of the Magic8 Pro came bundled with an exclusive gift package worth RM2,190, which included the HONOR CHOICE Earbuds Clip, a three-month complimentary Google AI Pro Higher Access subscription, a RM300 instant rebate, and comprehensive service protection including 365-day Front and Back Crack Protection, 1-Year Extended Warranty, and 1-Year Liquid Damage Protection Warranty. This combination of high-end features and valuable perks positioned the Magic8 Pro as a compelling choice for consumers seeking premium technology without compromise.

    User feedback highlighted the Magic8 Pro’s superior performance and flagship-level capabilities. Early adopters praised the 200MP Ultra Night Telephoto Camera for producing sharp, bright, and clear images even in low-light conditions, with precise color reproduction and minimal blurring when zooming. Many also lauded the device’s robust hardware, enhanced AI functionalities, and long-lasting battery life, emphasizing that the bundled gifts and premium warranty further elevated the device’s overall value proposition.

    In addition to its camera prowess, the HONOR Magic8 Pro addresses common limitations found in other flagship devices. It boasts a 7,100mAh silicon-carbon battery with 100W wired fast charging, ensuring all-day usability; superior network connectivity to maintain stable performance even in weak signal areas; a 6,000-nit eye-comfort display engineered to reduce eye strain during extended usage; and an industry-leading IP69K rating for water and dust resistance, coupled with premium warranty coverage for maximum peace of mind.

    The Magic8 Pro is available in three striking colors—Sunrise Gold, Sky Cyan, and Black—and comes in two configurations: 24GB RAM (including 12GB HONOR Turbo RAM) with 512GB storage priced at RM4,599, and 32GB RAM (including 16GB HONOR Turbo RAM) with 1TB storage at RM5,199. By combining cutting-edge technology, user-centric design, and exceptional consumer value, the HONOR Magic8 Pro has firmly established itself as a standout flagship in the Malaysian market, setting a new benchmark for mobile innovation and user experience.

    For more information, visit HONOR’s official website at www.honor.com/my/

  • How Malaysia’s Creative Economy is Being Shaped by ASEAN-UK Collaboration

    How Malaysia’s Creative Economy is Being Shaped by ASEAN-UK Collaboration

    The creative economy is increasingly recognized as a defining economic model of the 21st century, and Malaysia is poised to benefit from strategic regional and international collaborations that aim to strengthen this sector. According to John Howkins, the creative economy drives innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth, and in Southeast Asia, the ASEAN Strategic Plan for Culture and Arts 2016–2025 has provided a framework to enhance supply, demand, and market efficiency in creative industries. As this plan concludes, insights from the British Council’s Regional Perception Poll, which surveyed over 4,100 respondents across ASEAN and Timor-Leste—including nearly 20% Malaysians—reveal both opportunities and ongoing challenges. While 60% of respondents view the creative economy as growing and 43% note its positive economic impact, 68% of creative professionals still struggle to access markets, highlighting the need for initiatives that support sustainable careers. Over half of Malaysian respondents also emphasized that local culture and traditional wisdom significantly shape creative products, strengthening identity and economic competitiveness.

    The ASEAN-UK collaboration plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges by connecting Malaysian creative professionals with global expertise and markets. Initiatives such as the Digital Craft Toolkit, developed with the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Kraftangan Malaysia) and Institut Kraf Negara, demonstrate how local heritage can be preserved while meeting contemporary market demands. Trade missions and exchanges, including participation in London Tech Week 2024, have linked Malaysian innovators with UK expertise to address barriers such as lack of market information. In 2025, programmes delivered with MOTAC, Sabah Creative Economy and Innovation Centre (SCENIC), and the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Economy and Performing Arts have reached over 150 policymakers and creative practitioners, underscoring the value of consolidated support and connected solutions.

    ASEAN-UK Creative Economy Symposium – Day 2 – All Organising Partners – UKMis – ASEC – BC – John Newbigin – MoTAC – CAO – BC

    At the centre of these efforts is the ASEAN-UK Advancing Creative Economy Programme (ACE), co-funded by the UK Mission to ASEAN and the British Council, which aligns with the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025 and the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity. By combining professional development, research, and knowledge exchange, the programme transforms insights into actionable outcomes, from hybrid policy trainings to music festival delegations, turning individual capability into sector-wide change. Malaysia, with its rich craft heritage, digital ambitions, and collaborative ecosystem, is uniquely positioned to leverage local culture as a competitive advantage, connecting authenticity to global markets. As ACE enters its second phase, it aims to train 250 creative professionals and policymakers by March 2026 and collaborate with universities to equip the next generation of creative talent with essential tools. By fostering a creative economy that is culturally rooted, globally connected, and digitally enabled, Malaysia and ASEAN can shape a vibrant, resilient, and commercially viable creative sector for the future.

  • Season’s Greetings from Andaman Island: E&O Welcomes You to FaLaLa 2.0

    Season’s Greetings from Andaman Island: E&O Welcomes You to FaLaLa 2.0

    Building on the resounding success of FaLaLa 1.0, Eastern & Oriental Berhad is set to elevate Penang’s festive season with the return of FaLaLa 2.0 at the E&O Gallery on Andaman Island. Scheduled over two enchanting weekends, from 12 to 14 December and 19 to 21 December 2025, the event promises to transform the island into a Snowy Nutcracker Wonderland, immersing visitors in the magic of Christmas like never before. Guests can expect a dazzling combination of snowfall, twinkling lights, live music, captivating performances, and hands-on workshops that celebrate creativity and togetherness, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and friends alike.

    The festivities kick off with a grand illumination of the signature Christmas tree on the evening of 12 December at 8pm, setting the tone for an immersive experience filled with artisanal stalls, festive treats, and unique handcrafted gifts. Families can delight in the Kids’ Bumpy Ride playground, the Bonfire S’mores corner, and scenic strolls along the illuminated waterfront, while pets are warmly welcomed to join in the holiday cheer. The event emphasizes interactivity and engagement, with workshops ranging from wreath-making, terrarium crafting, perfume blending, candy apple dipping, and meringue decorating, to the ever-popular Little Chef sessions that allow young bakers to create their own festive masterpieces. Each activity is designed to foster shared memories and meaningful experiences, turning simple moments into cherished keepsakes.

    Entertainment plays a central role in FaLaLa 2.0, blending classic and contemporary festive performances to suit all ages. Visitors will enjoy the soothing harmonies of Christmas carolers, the timeless charm of the Nutcracker ballet, and lighthearted family-friendly activities such as the Treasure Hunt. Energetic showcases, including a K-Pop Dance Competition and a rhythmic Drum Circle, inject youthful energy into the celebrations, while nightly appearances from Santa Claus continue to be a highlight for children and families.

    Dato’ Seri Tee Eng Ho, Executive Chairman of Eastern & Oriental Berhad, highlighted that hosting FaLaLa 2.0 at Andaman Island offers an opportunity to present Penang’s most recognizable Christmas celebration in a picturesque setting that reflects the state’s growth and appeal. The event is designed not only to entertain but also to encourage visitors to explore Penang during the festive season, offering an experience that is welcoming, enjoyable, and memorable for both residents and travelers. With gentle snowing sessions, live music, make-a-wish moments under the Christmas tree, and the island’s stunning seascape as a backdrop, FaLaLa 2.0 provides an elegant and immersive festive environment that appeals to all ages.

    Through this carefully curated celebration, Eastern & Oriental Berhad invites guests to create lasting memories, enjoy seasonal warmth, and experience a Christmas setting that is thoughtfully designed for repeated enjoyment. For those wanting to plan their visit or stay updated on the full lineup and event schedule, details are available on Instagram at @andaman_by_eando. FaLaLa 2.0 stands as a testament to the magic of Christmas in Penang, combining festive tradition with interactive experiences to delight every visitor.

  • Sabah State Approves Merchantrade for Digital Wage Payment Services

    Merchantrade Asia Sdn. Bhd. has achieved a major milestone with its official recognition as an Approved Issuer of a Designated Payment Instrument (DPI) for the state of Sabah. This approval, granted under the Labour Ordinance of Sabah by the Minister of Human Resources, builds on Merchantrade’s existing authorization in Peninsular Malaysia since August 2024 and is effective from 1 December 2025. The new mandate enables employers in Sabah to utilize Merchantrade’s digital solutions, including its payroll portal and Merchantrade Money e-wallet, to manage wage payments for foreign employees in full compliance with Malaysian labour laws. Given Sabah’s vast geography of 7.4 million hectares and the reliance on cash for payroll in plantation-heavy areas, this digital solution addresses both logistical and security challenges, allowing employees to receive wages directly, access cash via VISA-enabled ATMs, and conduct everyday transactions safely. Founder and Managing Director Ramasamy K. Veeran highlighted that this authorization strengthens Merchantrade’s position as a leader in the digital wage ecosystem, providing inclusive, seamless solutions supported by a network of physical touchpoints across Sabah. Beyond payroll, the Merchantrade Money e-wallet offers a comprehensive suite of services, including remittances, mobile top-ups, micro-insurance, and QR payments, catering to the unbanked and migrant worker communities, while promoting transparency, efficiency, and financial inclusion in wage disbursement and social security contributions.

  • PKS DIGALAKKAN Laksana EWA Bantu Pekerja Kurangkan Beban Hidup, Setlary Raih Pelaburan RM100 Juta

    PKS DIGALAKKAN Laksana EWA Bantu Pekerja Kurangkan Beban Hidup, Setlary Raih Pelaburan RM100 Juta

    Perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) di seluruh negara digalakkan untuk melaksanakan konsep Earned Wage Access (EWA) atau Akses Gaji Diperoleh sebagai langkah membantu pekerja berpendapatan rendah menangani peningkatan kos sara hidup. Presiden Persatuan ESG Malaysia, Cheah Kok Hoong, menjelaskan bahawa EWA memberi peluang kepada pekerja untuk mengakses sebahagian gaji yang telah diperoleh sebelum tarikh pembayaran rasmi, sekali gus membantu mereka memenuhi keperluan harian dan mengelakkan tekanan kewangan. Menurutnya, kestabilan kewangan pekerja adalah asas kepada produktiviti dan kesihatan operasi sesebuah organisasi, dan kegagalan majikan membayar gaji tepat pada masanya boleh mencetuskan kitaran tidak sihat yang menjejaskan perniagaan. Beliau turut menegaskan bahawa EWA selari dengan agenda sosial dalam prinsip ESG, khususnya dalam memastikan kesejahteraan dan keselamatan pekerja sentiasa diberi keutamaan.

    Dalam perkembangan berkaitan, Setlary — penyedia platform EWA tempatan — mengumumkan pelaburan strategik bernilai RM100 juta daripada Lion X dan Holborn Capital Partners bagi memperkukuh pengembangan mereka ke pasaran Asia serta meningkatkan fungsi kesejahteraan kewangan dalam platform tersebut. Menurut Pengasas Bersama Setlary, Charles Chew, platform itu bukan sahaja memudahkan pekerja mengakses pendapatan mereka lebih awal, tetapi turut menyediakan program kebajikan seperti bantuan barangan keperluan asas, insurans percuma dan sokongan kesejahteraan kewangan bagi golongan B40. Chew menegaskan bahawa misi utama Setlary adalah untuk memastikan “Setiap Hari adalah Hari Gaji Anda”, sambil mengurangkan kebergantungan pekerja kepada pinjaman tidak berlesen dan bertaedah tinggi. Selain itu, Setlary turut menerima sokongan pembiayaan tambahan daripada CapBay, yang menyediakan akses modal alternatif sehingga USD25 juta untuk memperkukuh portfolio pelanggan mereka. Dengan pelaburan besar ini, Setlary dijangka memainkan peranan signifikan dalam membantu syarikat memenuhi komponen sosial dalam mandat ESG, sekali gus memperluas manfaat kewangan inklusif kepada lebih ramai pekerja di seluruh negara.

  • SHAFFIQ ERWIN – JANJIR

    SHAFFIQ ERWIN – JANJIR

    Shaffiq Erwin, yang lebih dikenali sebagai seorang guru vokal berpengalaman dan penyanyi sejak tahun 2012, kembali mewarnai industri muzik tempatan dengan single terbaharunya berjudul “Janjir”. Selepas beberapa tahun menyepi daripada dunia nyanyian, Shaffiq—atau lebih mesra disapa Apit—kembali mencabar diri melalui pentas program realiti TV3, Famili Duo. Penyertaannya bersama penyanyi terkenal Ara Johari dalam Famili Duo Season 1 pada tahun 2020 bukan sahaja membuka lembaran baharu, malah membawa mereka muncul sebagai juara episod Saudara. Kejayaan itu terus menyemarakkan semangatnya apabila duo tersebut sekali lagi menyerlah dalam Famili Duo Season 2 pada 2023, mara hingga ke peringkat separuh akhir.

    Kini, Shaffiq tampil dengan penuh yakin menerusi “Janjir”, sebuah karya yang memperlihatkan keberaniannya bereksperimen dengan genre Rockdut, gabungan unik antara rock dan dangdut. Lagu ini bukan sekadar percubaan muzik baharu, tetapi juga menunjukkan kematangannya dalam berkarya. Di bawah naungan Sevoce Studio dan edaran Universal Music, “Janjir” merupakan ciptaan dan terbitan bersama Rudy Nastia, Aizad Khan serta Shaffiq sendiri. Dengan lirik yang dekat di hati, lagu ini membawa kisah tentang pasangan yang pernah berjanji untuk setia, namun akhirnya salah seorang memungkiri janji dan kembali hanya apabila kesusahan melanda.

    Muzik video “Janjir” turut memberi impak visual yang segar dengan tema merah jambu dan putih, menampilkan kolaborasi bersama Kunafa Aiwah, Anas Lips Serum dan Heetam Puteh. Sentuhan suntingan oleh Shiha Zikir Empire menambahkan lagi kekuatan visual karya ini. “Janjir” boleh didengari di YouTube dan semua platform digital mulai 12 November 2025. Shaffiq berharap karya terbaharunya ini terus menerima sokongan daripada rakan media dan para pendengar, sekali gus menandakan fasa baharu dalam perjalanan seninya.

  • Joe Flizzow Returns to the Hip-Hop Scene with His Powerful New Single “501”

    Joe Flizzow Returns to the Hip-Hop Scene with His Powerful New Single “501”

    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.