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  • Garnier Unveils Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum, Introducing a New Era of Gentle yet Powerful Skin Renewal

    Garnier Unveils Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum, Introducing a New Era of Gentle yet Powerful Skin Renewal

    Garnier Malaysia ushered in a groundbreaking chapter in skincare innovation with the launch of its Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum, unveiled at The Creators’ Renew Lab held at APW Bangsar from 30 to 31 October 2025. The venue buzzed with creativity, science, and community spirit as Garnier brought together beauty enthusiasts, content creators, and skincare experts to experience a new frontier in gentle yet effective skin renewal. The event was designed not only as a product showcase but also as an immersive space where innovation, artistry, and consumer education merged seamlessly.

    The highlight of the launch was the introduction of Garnier’s Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum, now available exclusively at Watsons. This high-performance serum features a powerful 15% blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA paired with Niacinamide, engineered to deliver visible skin refinement and barrier repair in just four hours. Despite its strength, the formula prioritises skin comfort—offering smoother, brighter, and more refined texture without irritation—making it suitable even for daily use and sensitive skin. Complementing the serum is the newly launched Micellar Peeling Water, a dual-action innovation that acts as both a gentle exfoliating cleanser and a daily renewal solution. Together, the products form a complete peeling routine that transforms the skin without harshness, reflecting Garnier’s commitment to “High-Tech Nature Beauty Made to Feel Good.”

    Milleh Christian
    Michie Lam
    Han Xiaoo Aii
    Mek Yun

    A key moment at the event was the “Peel The Truth” discussion led by dermatology influencer Dr. Aen, known for her medical expertise and professional dermatology credentials (MD, Professional Diploma in Dermatology from RCPI). She debunked the misconception that peeling must be abrasive or uncomfortable, championing Garnier’s science-backed innovation. Dr. Aen shared her own rigorous criteria for skincare—visible results, daily suitability, and uncompromised safety—highlighting how the Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum delivers professional-grade radiance without pain or downtime. Her endorsement reinforced Garnier’s message that effective skincare can, and should, remain gentle and accessible.

    The event also celebrated local creativity beyond skincare science. At the Custom Charms Lab, powered by artisan brand Beadology, creators enjoyed hands-on charm-making, designing personalised accessories that reflected their individuality. Nearby, the Matcha Bar by 1800-MATCHA-N-CHOCOLATE served freshly brewed matcha, transforming a beloved beverage into a sensory and social moment perfect for content creation. These immersive corners added warmth, artistry, and a sense of community to the experience, echoing Garnier’s belief in beauty that inspires and connects.

    Garnier Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum
    Micellar Peeling Water

    Garnier’s Tri-Acid Renew Peeling Serum and Micellar Peeling Water are now available online at TikTok Shop, Shopee, Lazada, and Watsons Online, as well as at Watsons stores nationwide. Consumers can easily locate their nearest outlet via the Watsons Store Finder and explore these innovations in person. For the latest updates, events, and skincare tips, Garnier Malaysia invites followers to connect on Instagram @garniermalaysia and TikTok @garniermy.

  • Captivating Culture Fest 2025

    Captivating Culture Fest 2025

    The ENCHANTING CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2025, themed “Embracing Malaysia Art, Heritage & Culture,” will take place on 15 and 16 November 2025 at the Main Atrium (Level 1), KLGCC Mall. Organized by Brand Media Group, this two-day celebration brings together traditional artistry, cultural craftsmanship and creative expressions that honour Malaysia’s rich textile heritage. Designed as an immersive experience, the festival highlights the nation’s cultural diversity through dynamic showcases, storytelling and hands-on engagement, uniting communities around the shared beauty of arts and heritage.

    With a mission to preserve, empower and celebrate Malaysia’s cultural identity, the ENCHANTING CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2025 reflects themes of unity and cultural preservation. The initiative aligns closely with the Malaysia National Agenda MADANI, UNESCO cultural values and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing the importance of education, heritage protection and sustainable cultural development. Through a combination of traditional and contemporary exhibits, the festival strengthens appreciation for local craftsmanship, supports creative communities and fosters youth engagement in the nation’s cultural legacy.

    Presenting Kelingkan Selangor by Pertubuhan Kelingkan D’Ehsan & AfSM SewTech Academy

    A key highlight of the festival is the heritage showcase dedicated to the timeless craftsmanship of Telepuk, Kelingkan and Batik. Once reserved for royalty and ceremonial occasions, these art forms are brought to life through archival displays, rare artifacts and live demonstrations. Telepuk, known for its delicate application of gold leaf on silk or songket, showcases the elegance of classical Malay traditions. Kelingkan embroidery, crafted using gold or silver threads, reflects the intricate artistry of traditional bridal attire. Batik, celebrated for its wax-resist dyeing techniques, stands as a symbol of Malaysia’s enduring creativity and evolving cultural identity. Together, these elements form a living archive that bridges past traditions with contemporary appreciation.

    The festival is further distinguished by the presence of esteemed guests who champion cultural preservation efforts in Malaysia. Among them are Che Puan Datin Hezeita Mohd Hafidz as Guest of Honour, Datuk Dr. Ammar Ghapar, former Director General of Tourism Malaysia, and senior representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN), Perbadanan Adat Melayu dan Warisan Negeri Selangor (PADAT), Jabatan Warisan Negara and the Ministry of Education Malaysia. Their participation underscores the shared commitment to elevating Malaysia’s cultural heritage on both national and global fronts.

    From left to right – Datuk Dr. Ammar Ghapar Former Director General Tourism Malaysia, Che Puan Datin Hezeita Mohd Hafidz, Ms. Shirene Moong, Chairperson of Enchanting Cultural 2025, Encik Mohd Radzi Bin Omar, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Kebudayaan dan Kesenian) Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Encik Zahari Bin Mat, Pegawai Kebudayaan Jabatan Warisan Negara

    Visitors can look forward to a variety of engaging showcases and activities. The Heritage Motifs & Pattern Showcase features Telepuk, Kelingkan and Batik artworks designed to deepen public appreciation of traditional crafts. The Arts & Cultural Showcase presents contemporary interpretations by local artisans, offering a fresh perspective on Malaysia’s diverse artistic expressions. Families and children can also enjoy Traditional Malaysian Games, reviving nostalgic pastimes that connect generations through play and shared memory. Hands-on demonstrations by renowned artisans and institutions provide visitors with the rare opportunity to observe and experience traditional craftsmanship up close.

    The ENCHANTING CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2025 is supported by strong collaborative partnerships with KLGCC Mall, Jabatan Warisan Negara, Perbadanan Adat Melayu dan Warisan Negeri Selangor (PADAT), Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia and creative organisations such as Langkasuka Movement, AFSM SewTech Academy, Pertubuhan Kelingkan D’Ehsan, Alina Batik and A&T Fashion Technology. These partnerships reinforce the festival’s mission to preserve Malaysia’s living heritage, empower local communities and promote cultural sustainability across generations.

    Presenting Batik Melaka by Alina Batik 

    Serving as a platform to bridge generations through arts and culture, the ENCHANTING CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2025 inspires Malaysians to appreciate, practice and safeguard the nation’s artistic traditions. Through collaboration among government bodies, NGOs and creative practitioners, the festival underscores the significance of culture as a cornerstone of national identity and social harmony. Its mission is rooted in the principles of Malaysia MADANI, UNESCO and the Sustainable Development Goals, championing education, inclusivity, sustainability and respect for cultural diversity as essential foundations for a progressive and compassionate society.

  • MY WARISAN: LAKSA…MANA Festival Extravaganza 2025

    MY WARISAN: LAKSA…MANA Festival Extravaganza 2025

    MY WARISAN: LAKSA…MANA FESTIVAL GALORE 2025 invites Malaysians to embark on a vibrant culinary journey celebrating the nation’s iconic dish, laksa. Organized by OHSOM TV, the two-day festival will take place on 22 and 23 November 2025 at the Main Atrium (Level 1) of KLGCC Mall, offering visitors an immersive experience that highlights Malaysia’s rich multicultural heritage through food, storytelling, and tradition.

    The festival aims to celebrate the diversity of laksa traditions across Malaysia, providing a platform to showcase the unique flavors, ingredients, and histories of regional specialties, including Melaka Nyonya Laksa, Pangkor Laksa, Penang Laksa, Johor Laksa, Sarawak Laksa, and Selangor delicacies such as Punten with Sambal Ijo and Tat Bengkulu. Beyond tasting, visitors will gain insight into the origins, authenticity, and traditional preparation methods of these beloved dishes, fostering a deeper appreciation for Malaysia’s culinary history.

    Live Sarawak Laksa Demo by Chef Muluk (Abdul Muluk Rambli)

    MY WARISAN: LAKSA…MANA FESTIVAL GALORE 2025 also emphasizes youth and community empowerment by offering daily cooking demonstrations led by Malaysia’s most celebrated culinary experts, including Professor Dr. Muhammad Shahrim, Chef Dato’ Ismail Ahmad, Chef Debbie Teoh, Chef Muluk (Abdul Muluk Rambli), and Associate Professor Dr. Ahmad Esa Abdul Rahman. These sessions, covering everything from traditional broth preparation to spice blending and sustainable cooking practices, are designed to inspire aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts while encouraging the preservation and innovation of Malaysia’s culinary heritage.

    Aligned with the MADANI values, UNESCO’s principles of cultural preservation, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the festival highlights food as a means to promote sustainability, cultural continuity, and community development. Clear collaboration between key partners—including the Ministry of Education Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Department of National Heritage, Perbadanan Adat Melayu dan Warisan Negeri Selangor (PADAT), and KLGCC Mall—underscores a shared commitment to preserving living heritage and nurturing the next generation of culinary custodians.

    Live Pangkor Laksa Demo by Professor Dr. Muhammad Shahrim

    Running from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on both days, the festival promises a feast for the senses, featuring tasting sessions, ingredient showcases, storytelling, and interactive culinary experiences. MY WARISAN: LAKSA…MANA FESTIVAL GALORE 2025 is more than a celebration of food—it is a celebration of Malaysia’s multicultural identity, where traditions, flavors, and stories unite communities and inspire a shared love for the nation’s culinary treasures.

  • IJN University College and Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris Form Strategic Partnership to Launch Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) Programme

    IJN University College and Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris Form Strategic Partnership to Launch Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) Programme

    IJN University College (IJNUC) has taken a significant step in expanding its academic offerings by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), establishing a strategic partnership to offer the Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) programme. The collaboration marks a shared commitment by both institutions to strengthen academic excellence and address the growing importance of psychology within Malaysia’s healthcare sector.

    Under the agreement, UPSI will serve as the awarding body for the degree, while IJNUC will lead programme delivery. Leveraging its strong academic foundation and clinically immersive learning environment, IJNUC aims to produce psychology graduates who embody competence, compassion, and industry readiness. The MoA was formalised through the signing ceremony between Prof. Emerita Durrishah Idrus, Vice-Chancellor of IJNUC, and Prof. Dato’ Dr. Md Amin bin Md Taff, Vice-Chancellor of UPSI.

    Prof. Emerita Durrishah emphasised that the partnership is aligned with IJNUC’s ongoing efforts to broaden its academic portfolio beyond the traditional clinical sciences. She highlighted the crucial role psychology plays in healthcare, noting that understanding human behaviour and mental wellness is essential for holistic patient care. “This collaboration with UPSI opens an exciting new chapter for IJNUC. Psychology is deeply intertwined with healthcare, as understanding human behaviour and mental wellness is crucial in treating patients holistically. By combining IJNUC’s strengths in healthcare education with UPSI’s academic excellence, we are preparing future professionals who can serve with both competence and compassion, a vital balance in today’s healthcare landscape,” she said.

    Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Dato’ Dr. Md Amin bin Md Taff noted that the initiative underscores UPSI’s mission to broaden its impact through partnerships that connect academic knowledge with real-world applications. He highlighted the timeliness of integrating psychology into healthcare as Malaysia continues to prioritise mental health and emotional well-being. “UPSI is proud to work alongside IJNUC in nurturing graduates who not only possess psychological knowledge but also the ability to apply it effectively within healthcare settings. This initiative is a step forward in producing a new generation of psychologists who are ready to contribute meaningfully to society,” he added.

    The Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) programme will offer students a multidisciplinary curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge, clinical exposure, and hands-on learning within healthcare environments. This integrated approach will strengthen their understanding of psychological dimensions in patient care and better prepare them for diverse professional pathways across the health, education, and community sectors.

    The signing of the MoA represents another important milestone in IJNUC’s journey to advance healthcare education through strategic collaborations with reputable institutions. It reinforces the institution’s role as a leading centre for teaching, research, and professional development in Malaysia. Pending approval from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), the programme is expected to welcome its first cohort in September 2025.

  • CHAGEE has become the first freshly brewed tea chain in Malaysia to receive recognition under the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP).

    CHAGEE has become the first freshly brewed tea chain in Malaysia to receive recognition under the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP).

    CHAGEE Malaysia has marked a significant milestone by officially earning the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP) logo for selected beverages, becoming the first freshly prepared beverage tea chain in the country to receive this prestigious recognition. This achievement underscores CHAGEE’s commitment to providing Malaysians with better beverage choices while preserving the brand’s hallmark quality, craftsmanship, and authentic tea culture.

    The HDP logo, introduced by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) under the broader Healthier Choice Logo (HCL) initiative, helps consumers easily identify freshly prepared beverages that meet strict nutrient criteria aligned with the nation’s dietary guidelines. As an extension of the HCL framework, the Healthier Dining Programme expands its focus to include both freshly prepared foods and beverages, setting nutrient-based benchmarks that encourage healthier dining habits across the country. Being awarded the HDP certification affirms CHAGEE’s efforts in crafting beverages that not only taste exceptional but also align with health-conscious standards.

    The certification covers CHAGEE’s full range of milk teas that meet HDP nutrient requirements, as well as most of its brewed teas that fall within the approved nutrient thresholds. These beverages were evaluated against criteria that include maintaining sugar content at 5 grams per 100 milliliters or less—an important guideline that supports healthier beverage consumption. In acknowledging the achievement, the HDP Secretariat commended CHAGEE’s successful efforts in meeting the required nutrient standards and contributing to the availability of healthier options for Malaysians.

    CHAGEE’s HDP-certified beverages reflect the brand’s dedication to responsible formulation and meticulous craftsmanship. Central to this approach is CHAGEE’s “Three Zeroes” philosophy—zero artificial flavoring in tea bases, zero artificial sweeteners, and zero trans-fat—which guides the brand’s product development across the region. Drinks that meet HDP criteria will now carry the HDP logo, while other beverages with richer profiles will continue to be offered, ensuring variety without compromising transparency. Clear labels in-store and across digital platforms will help customers easily identify which drinks are certified and make informed choices.

    To further support consumer awareness, CHAGEE recently introduced a Calorie Calculator feature on its mobile app, enabling customers to view estimated calorie information for their beverages before placing an order. This enhancement aligns with CHAGEE’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and empower customers to make mindful decisions.

    Jonathan Ng, Director for Government and Public Affairs at CHAGEE APAC, described the certification as a meaningful achievement for the brand. “Earning the HDP logo is an important milestone for CHAGEE Malaysia. It reflects our belief that great tea can bring joy while also supporting well-being. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with MOH to provide healthier options of freshly prepared beverages in the market, and we hope this achievement encourages more brands to innovate and offer healthier, more transparent options,” he said.

    The attainment of the HDP logo strengthens CHAGEE’s role in contributing to Malaysia’s broader public health goals. Moving forward, the brand remains committed to responsible beverage innovation and will continue exploring ways to develop products that balance enjoyment with mindful choices. By offering high-quality beverages that cater to diverse preferences, CHAGEE aims to support healthier lifestyles for all Malaysians while continuing to elevate the nation’s modern tea culture.

  • Emirates concludes the Dubai Airshow with major strategic investments to drive future growth and unveil next-generation aviation innovations.

    Emirates concludes the Dubai Airshow with major strategic investments to drive future growth and unveil next-generation aviation innovations.

    Emirates capped off a highly successful week at the Dubai Airshow with major announcements, strategic partnerships, and technology showcases that reinforce its confidence in long-term growth and its role in advancing the UAE’s aerospace ambitions. Throughout the week, the airline unveiled significant commitments to expand its fleet, elevate the customer experience with new cabin innovations, strengthen industry partnerships, and enhance the UAE’s standing as an emerging global aerospace hub.

    Demonstrating strong public interest, Emirates’ largest-ever static display—featuring the Airbus A380, A350, and Boeing 777—drew over 82,000 visitors. More than 15,000 attendees also had the chance to test Emirates’ Starlink high-speed inflight Wi-Fi aboard a retrofitted Boeing 777, offering a glimpse into a more connected future of air travel.

    Emirates’ announcements throughout the airshow aligned closely with Dubai’s D33 economic agenda. The airline revealed a substantial fleet expansion with orders for 65 additional Boeing 777-9s and eight Airbus A350-900s, valued at US$41.4 billion. This brings Emirates’ total wide-body order book to 375 aircraft, ensuring capacity growth well into 2038.

    To further enhance the passenger experience, Emirates showcased its first aircraft equipped with Starlink, underscoring its plans to introduce high-speed connectivity on 232 aircraft within the next two years. The airline also confirmed that 111 existing aircraft will undergo a major cabin refresh featuring elevated interiors and next-generation entertainment systems.

    Emirates strengthened its global reach through expanded partnerships, including a reciprocal codeshare with South African Airways and an extended codeshare and loyalty partnership with Air Canada through 2032. The airline also highlighted the ongoing success of its close cooperation with flydubai, further supporting Dubai’s aviation ecosystem.

    Sustainability and efficiency were also central themes. Emirates signed an MoU with ENOC to explore sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development in Dubai and entered into a research collaboration with dans and Thales aimed at reducing arrival holding patterns at DXB to improve airspace efficiency. In the technology space, Emirates announced a new partnership with OpenAI to deploy ChatGPT Enterprise across its organisation, supported by AI training programmes and strategic implementation frameworks.

    In logistics innovation, Emirates SkyCargo partnered with LODD Autonomous to pursue next-generation hybrid, unmanned heavy-lift cargo aircraft built in the UAE—signaling the airline’s intent to help shape the future of air freight.

    Further bolstering Dubai’s aerospace manufacturing and engineering capabilities, Emirates signed several landmark agreements. These include an MoU with Safran Seats to establish Dubai’s first aircraft seat manufacturing facility and another with the CCE Group to co-develop next-generation cabin and cargo products. Emirates also inked a long-term partnership with Rolls-Royce to enable Trent 900 engine MRO for its A380 fleet at a new purpose-built facility by 2027, extending their TotalCare support well into the 2040s. In a significant national milestone, Emirates Engineering achieved the UAE’s first Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the GCAA, enabling the team to certify major aircraft modifications locally—an important step in building homegrown aerospace expertise.

    Crowning its achievements during the airshow, Emirates earned major industry accolades, including ‘Best Airline in the World’ for the eighth year in a row at the ULTRAs Travel Awards. The airline also took home Airline of the Year and Best First Class of the Year at the Aviation Business Middle East Awards 2025, reaffirming its leadership and excellence in global aviation.

  • Melalui “Kumpul Kasih: A Morning of Care & Colours”, senyuman kembali mekar pada wajah pesakit kanser kanak-kanak.

    Melalui “Kumpul Kasih: A Morning of Care & Colours”, senyuman kembali mekar pada wajah pesakit kanser kanak-kanak.

    Program Kumpul Kasih: A Morning of Care & Colours anjuran Ajwa Bakery dan Adina Charity Circle telah berlangsung dengan penuh meriah dan menyentuh hati di Malaya Grill, Sungai Buloh. Inisiatif ini dianjurkan khusus untuk menceriakan pesakit kanser kanak-kanak sambil memberikan sokongan moral kepada keluarga mereka. Kehadiran wakil Adina Charity Circle, Puan Dieana, dan wakil Ajwa Bakery, Puan Dahlia, menyerlahkan komitmen kedua-dua organisasi dalam membawa keceriaan kepada komuniti yang memerlukan.

    Menurut Puan Nurdieana dari Adina Charity Circle, program ini bukan sekadar ruang untuk berhibur, tetapi juga satu penghargaan terhadap semangat luar biasa pejuang kecil tersebut. Manakala Puan Dahlia, Pengarah Urusan Ajwa Bakery, menekankan bahawa aktiviti menghias kek bukan sahaja menyeronokkan tetapi turut membantu anak-anak mengekspresikan kreativiti mereka. Program turut diserikan dengan sesi motivasi oleh Coach Azie, diikuti aktiviti menghias kek yang menjadi kemuncak acara, dipenuhi tawa, warna dan keberanian. Kumpul Kasih membawa mesej besar bahawa setiap senyuman kecil mampu menyalakan harapan, membuka ruang untuk lebih banyak program sokongan emosi pada masa hadapan.

  • Lokarya Membawa Nafas Baharu kepada “Deruan”

    Lokarya Membawa Nafas Baharu kepada “Deruan”

    Selepas dua tahun menjauh dari pentas demi membina asas artistik yang lebih matang, band indie Malaysia, Lokarya, kembali ke arus perdana dengan memperkenalkan semula single mereka “Deruan”. Lagu yang telah dirakam hampir tiga tahun lalu ini kini diberikan ruang baharu untuk berkembang, mewakili identiti sebenar kumpulan tersebut setelah melalui proses pendewasaan kreatif. Dengan barisan lima pemuzik — Shaheth Nair (vokal/gitar), Khairi Hamidi (gitar), Rafael Ahmad (bass), Taka (keyboard) dan Amirul Zailan (dram) — Lokarya membentuk bunyi tersendiri yang memadukan elemen city pop moden, jiwa soul dan sentuhan alternatif yang segar.

    Ditubuhkan pada 2019, nama Lokarya berasal daripada perkataan “lokakarya”, menggambarkan ruang kolaborasi dan diskusi untuk mengasah idea. Bagi kumpulan ini, setiap lagu bermula sebagai perbualan — tentang kehidupan, hubungan atau kekeliruan — sebelum diolah secara kolektif di studio. “Lokarya adalah ruang eksperimen kami,” ujar vokalis Shaheth, menekankan bahawa muzik mereka terhasil daripada perjalanan bersama, bukan kerja seorang individu. Nilai itu membentuk identiti muzik mereka yang bersifat reflektif dan beremosi.

    Lokarya terus memperkukuh identiti sonik mereka melalui gabungan city pop kontemporari yang membawa nostalgia Jepun era 80-an dengan nuansa moden. Visual mereka yang konsisten dan lirik yang dekat dengan perasaan menjadi elemen penting dalam mewujudkan pengalaman muzik yang menggambarkan kehidupan di kota — penuh cahaya, kesibukan dan ruang sunyi yang tersembunyi. “Kami mahu pendengar rasa seperti lagu-lagu kami bercakap terus dengan mereka,” kata gitaris Khairi.

    Pengenalan semula “Deruan” menjadi penanda aras penting bagi Lokarya. Lagu ini, yang dahulu tidak mendapat momentum yang tepat, kini kembali sebagai karya yang lebih matang dan sejajar dengan hala tuju muzik mereka. Rafael berkongsi bahawa “Deruan” merupakan lagu yang amat dekat di hati mereka, namun mereka memilih untuk menunggu masa yang sesuai untuk diketengahkan. Kini, ia tampil sebagai gambaran paling jelas tentang DNA kreatif Lokarya.

    Rentetan persembahan mereka di RIUH x ASEAN baru-baru ini turut meniup keyakinan baharu apabila mereka menerima maklum balas positif daripada penonton. Sokongan itu membuka mata mereka bahawa Lokarya mempunyai ruang yang signifikan dalam arus perdana. Taka menyifatkan pengalaman tersebut sebagai titik permulaan untuk mereka tampil lebih berani dan konsisten dalam dunia muzik tempatan.

    Kini berada di fasa akhir pembikinan album penuh pertama mereka, Lokarya merangkum perjalanan enam tahun mereka dari 2019 hingga 2025. Album itu turut menampilkan kolaborasi istimewa bersama penyanyi dan komposer ternama, Noh Salleh, yang menulis salah satu lagu penting dalam projek tersebut. Bagi Amirul, kolaborasi ini merupakan penghormatan besar kerana mereka membesar dengan menghargai karya-karya Noh.

    Dalam sebuah industri muzik yang sentiasa berubah, Lokarya memilih untuk tidak mengejar trend. Sebaliknya, mereka mahu membina ruang unik yang mencerminkan identiti mereka sendiri. Shaheth menegaskan harapan mereka: “Jika satu hari nanti orang mengimbas kembali hidup mereka dan lagu kami menjadi sebahagian daripada memori itu, itu sudah cukup bermakna bagi kami.”

    Dengan “Deruan” sebagai langkah pertama menuju era baharu, Lokarya kini bersedia mengetengahkan bukan sekadar muzik, tetapi dunia sonik dan visual yang telah mereka bangunkan selama bertahun-tahun — satu pengalaman yang mencerminkan evolusi dan jiwa sebenar Lokarya.

  • Kuala Lumpur Tower Introduces a Fresh Storytelling Mascot Line-Up and Recognises the Winners of the Befriend Kay Elle Design Competition

    Kuala Lumpur Tower Introduces a Fresh Storytelling Mascot Line-Up and Recognises the Winners of the Befriend Kay Elle Design Competition

    Kuala Lumpur Tower, one of Malaysia’s most recognisable and enduring landmarks, marked a new chapter in creativity and visitor engagement with the unveiling of its first-ever storytelling mascot family. Introduced at the HEMISFERA Luxury Sky Hall, the new characters — Kay Elle, Tawa, Hornbelle, Cik Mak and Puteri Raya — reflect the tower’s evolution as it looks toward the next decade of experiential tourism, cultural programming and community connection. The event also celebrated the winners of the nationwide Befriend Kay Elle Design Competition, which drew nearly 200 imaginative submissions from Malaysians across the country.

    For almost 30 years, Kuala Lumpur Tower has stood not only as a beacon on the city’s skyline but as a silent witness to national milestones and a symbol of home for millions. Now, through the mascot family, the tower brings its identity to life in a new, engaging form. Each character embodies a unique element of the tower’s heritage — light, nature, culture, warmth and national pride — offering visitors a fresh lens through which to experience the landmark.

    Officiating the ceremony, Mr. Khairil Faizal Hj Othman, Chief Executive Officer of LSH Service Master Sdn. Bhd., shared that the mascots represent more than creative figures; they give voice to the stories the tower has carried for generations. “Kuala Lumpur Tower carries stories that belong to every Malaysian. These mascots bring those stories to life — not as fiction, but as reflections of the tower’s very soul. They honour our past, celebrate our present and help us imagine our future in a way that is meaningful, joyful and uniquely Malaysian,” he said.

    Leading the mascot family is Kay Elle, the Spark of the Skyline, inspired by Kuala Lumpur Tower’s iconic night-time glow. Cheerful and full of wonder, she captures the sense of magic that Malaysians feel each time they look up to see the tower illuminated against the cityscape. Accompanying her is Tawa, the Guardian of the Ancient Forest, who represents the 130-million-year-old Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve that surrounds the tower. As a spirited guardian, Tawa symbolises biodiversity, environmental stewardship and the tower’s extraordinary connection to nature.

    The Befriend Kay Elle Design Competition added three more characters to the family, selected for their cultural storytelling, strong identity and alignment with Kuala Lumpur Tower’s values. Hornbelle, inspired by the majestic Rhinoceros Hornbill of Sarawak, symbolises unity, strength and the rich heritage of Eastern Malaysia. Cik Mak reflects the warmth and comfort of home, taking creative inspiration from the cultural significance of nasi lemak without portraying it as a food mascot. Completing the lineup is Puteri Raya, the Hibiscus Princess, whose design pays tribute to Malaysia’s national flower through vibrant petals that mirror the tower’s colourful illuminations during national celebrations.

    The winning designers — Christelle Siow Zhi Shien (Hornbelle), Nur Aliahsafiyah Atikah Binti Mat Noor (Cik Mak) and Lay Heng Soon (Puteri Raya) — each received RM2,000 in cash, year-long Kuala Lumpur Tower passes, official merchandise sets and the honour of seeing their creations become permanent members of the tower’s identity.

    Looking ahead, the mascot family will serve as the cornerstone of Kuala Lumpur Tower’s next phase of engagement initiatives. They will appear in interactive guest activities, school outreach programmes, cultural festivals, national tourism promotions, creative merchandise and digital storytelling efforts. Their introduction also aligns with Malaysia’s broader plans to elevate cultural tourism experiences ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, reinforcing Kuala Lumpur Tower’s role as a meaningful, dynamic attraction for both local and international travellers.

    The event concluded with a lively photo session featuring the mascots, their creators, invited guests and media representatives. Standing together for the first time, the characters symbolised a new era for the landmark — one where architecture meets imagination. With Kay Elle, Tawa, Hornbelle, Cik Mak and Puteri Raya now representing its spirit, Kuala Lumpur Tower steps boldly into the future as a living landmark whose stories are as tall, colourful and enduring as the tower itself.

  • Fun(d) for Life Inspires Students to Lead Peer-Driven Financial Literacy Activities in Support of Financial Literacy Month

    Fun(d) for Life Inspires Students to Lead Peer-Driven Financial Literacy Activities in Support of Financial Literacy Month

    The Fun(d) for Life (FFL) programme continues to strengthen financial resilience among young Malaysians through engaging, student-driven learning experiences that make financial literacy practical, relevant, and enjoyable. Now entering its seventh edition, the programme has transformed the way financial education is delivered in schools through gamification, hands-on activities, and youth empowerment. Since its inception, FFL has reached more than 123,011 students nationwide, establishing itself as one of Malaysia’s most impactful financial literacy initiatives for school-aged learners.

    In conjunction with Financial Literacy Month this October, students across the country took part in school-level projects powered by RM500 micro-grants, allowing them to design and implement creative finance-themed initiatives within their communities. These projects ranged from budgeting carnivals in Sabah and peer-to-peer savings challenges in Kedah to awareness campaigns in schools and the creation of simple expense-tracking tools for classmates in Terengganu. From these efforts, 100 outstanding students were selected to form the inaugural FFL Student Council, representing schools nationwide and marking a significant milestone in student-led financial education.

    During the four-day FFL 2025 Summit, held at UTM Hotel & Residences in Kuala Lumpur, Student Council members underwent facilitator training, conducted simulation workshops, and led interactive, gamified sessions focusing on budgeting, saving, smart spending, and financial protection. They also directly engaged with 100 students from the Klang Valley, modelling what it means to be peer advocates for financial literacy. This shift—from teacher-led lessons to youth-led advocacy—signals a meaningful evolution in the programme, empowering students to champion financial education within their schools and wider communities.

    Over the years, Fun(d) for Life has demonstrated that when financial learning is dynamic and participatory, students not only absorb knowledge—they take ownership of it. The establishment of the Student Council represents the next phase of this mission, fostering a generation of confident, capable, and financially savvy youth who can positively influence their peers over the long term. “Fun(d) for Life was designed to make finance feel relevant, practical, and doable,” said Alina Amir, Programme Lead. “This year’s Student Council shows what happens when we hand the mic to students: they model positive money habits, teach their peers through interactive sessions, and turn financial literacy into a culture in schools.”

    FFL’s efforts align with Malaysia’s national financial literacy agenda under Bank Negara Malaysia, the Ministry of Education, and the Financial Education Network (FEN). The programme contributes to the upward trend in the Malaysian Financial Literacy and Capability Index, which has risen from 57.1 in 2018 to 59.1 in 2024, reflecting growing financial awareness nationwide. By embedding money management skills early, Fun(d) for Life plays a pivotal role in nurturing financially resilient future generations.

    Supported by FWD Takaful and Arus Academy since 2019, Fun(d) for Life continues its mission to build empowered young leaders and expand financial literacy across Malaysia. To follow the journey and stay updated on next year’s programme highlights, visit @fundfor.life on Instagram.