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  • Merchantrade Expands into ATM Services through Visa Partnership and Brown Label Model, Introducing Over 1,000 New Cash Access Points.

    Merchantrade Expands into ATM Services through Visa Partnership and Brown Label Model, Introducing Over 1,000 New Cash Access Points.

    Merchantrade Asia Sdn. Bhd., a leading provider of money services and digital financial solutions, has officially announced its entry into the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) business following regulatory approval to operate as an ATM acquirer. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for the company as it embarks on a mission to enhance financial inclusion by enabling over 1,000 new cash access points across Malaysia. The initiative is powered by Merchantrade’s long-standing partnership with Visa and security services provider Safeguards Corporation.

    The venture is designed to bridge financial accessibility gaps, particularly in rural and underserved areas where conventional banking services remain limited. Through this expansion, millions of individuals — including migrant workers, small traders, and local communities — will gain improved access to essential financial services such as cash withdrawals and deposits.

    Merchantrade’s ATM rollout is built on a two-pronged strategy. The first component involves the Visa Sponsor BIN model, where Merchantrade sponsors more than 1,000 Safeguards-operated ATMs nationwide to accept Visa-enabled cards. This instantly allows Visa customers — including credit, debit, and prepaid cardholders — to perform secure and convenient cash withdrawals.

    The second component introduces the Brown Label ATM Model, a pioneering approach that makes Merchantrade the first operator in Malaysia to adopt such a system. This model leverages Safeguards’ existing ATM infrastructure, including MEPS functionality, and integrates it with Merchantrade’s branding and Visa’s payment platform. Currently, over 12 Merchantrade-branded ATMs have been deployed at its branches, with a target to roll out more than 200 units nationwide.

    Merchantrade’s branded ATMs offer both cash withdrawal and deposit features — a service not commonly available at non-bank ATMs. They accept all Visa-enabled cards, including Merchantrade’s flagship Merchantrade Money prepaid Visa card, providing a practical solution for individuals and businesses that handle frequent cash transactions. These ATMs are strategically placed in accessible locations such as grocery stores, factory compounds, and community hubs to better serve local needs.

    Ramasamy K. Veeran, Founder and Managing Director of Merchantrade Asia, emphasized the broader impact of the rollout, stating, “By embracing this two-pronged strategy, we are not just installing machines; we are expanding the financial landscape. This makes it easier for individuals, like foreign workers and small businesses, to access funds, deposit cash securely, and manage their finances where they live, work, and do business.”

    Visa Malaysia Country Manager, Previn Pillay, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how ATMs remain a vital entry point to financial services. “While digital payments are growing, ATMs often represent a first touchpoint with digital payments for many consumers — particularly in rural and underserved areas. By making cash withdrawals more accessible, we’re supporting financial inclusion and ensuring that everyone has reliable access to their funds on the strength of the Visa network,” he said.

    Darmendran Kunaretnam, Group CEO of Safeguards Corporation, added that the collaboration with Merchantrade is instrumental in reaching underserved communities. “Merchantrade’s strong brand recognition among migrant workers and local communities allows us to extend our presence as a leading non-bank ATM operator.”

    With this bold move, Merchantrade solidifies its position as a key non-bank player in Malaysia’s financial ecosystem — reaffirming its commitment to making cash access, digital payments, and inclusive financial services more readily available to all.

    MerchantradeAsia

    FintechMalaysia

    BrownLabelATM

    VisaNetwork

  • Pasya Luah Emosi Dan Kekuatan Diri Dalam Single Terbaharu “Aku Bukan Cinta”

    Pasya Luah Emosi Dan Kekuatan Diri Dalam Single Terbaharu “Aku Bukan Cinta”

    Naib juara program realiti nyanyian terkenal Mentor 7, Pasya kembali mewarnai dunia muzik tanah air dengan single terbaharu berjudul Aku Bukan Cinta. Lagu berentak balada ini sarat dengan emosi dan menggambarkan realiti kehidupan, khususnya buat mereka yang pernah terluka dalam percintaan. Diterbitkan oleh Seventeen Eleven Music, karya ini merupakan hasil ciptaan duo komposer berbakat Ikhwan Fatanna dan Wan Saleh, dengan lirik sepenuhnya ditulis oleh Ikhwan Fatanna.

    Kehadiran Aku Bukan Cinta bukan sekadar merungkai kisah perpisahan, tetapi juga menjadi simbol kekuatan dalam melepaskan sesuatu yang tidak lagi membawa kebahagiaan. Menurut Pasya atau nama sebenarnya Faizul Ashraff Fauzi, lagu ini amat dekat di hatinya kerana membawa makna yang mendalam dan penuh perasaan. “Aku Bukan Cinta menceritakan tentang luka dalam hubungan apabila cinta tidak dihargai. Ia bukan hanya lagu tentang putus cinta, tetapi juga tentang keberanian untuk melepaskan. Kali pertama saya mendengar demo lagu ini, saya terus tertarik dengan melodinya yang kuat dan liriknya yang begitu jujur. Saya percaya ramai yang akan merasakan jiwa sebenar lagu ini,” jelasnya.

    Pasya turut berkongsi bahawa kolaborasinya bersama Ikhwan Fatanna dan Wan Saleh merupakan pengalaman berharga dalam perjalanan kariernya. Katanya, Ikhwan memberikan sentuhan lirik yang indah dan mudah difahami, manakala Wan Saleh berjaya menyerlahkan kekuatan lagu ini dengan susunan muzik moden dan segar. “Saya amat beruntung dapat bekerjasama dengan mereka kerana banyak perkara yang saya pelajari sepanjang proses rakaman ini,” katanya. Dari segi mesej, Aku Bukan Cinta membawa nilai keikhlasan dan keberanian untuk menerima hakikat bahawa tidak semua hubungan ditakdirkan berakhir dengan kebahagiaan.

    “Kadangkala, demi kebahagiaan diri dan orang lain, kita perlu belajar melepaskan. Lagu ini bukan tentang dendam atau kesedihan, tetapi tentang keikhlasan dan doa agar orang yang pernah kita cintai tetap bahagia,” tambah Pasya lagi.

    Berkongsi pengalaman semasa rakaman, Pasya mengakui cabaran paling besar adalah menyelami setiap bait lirik agar penyampaian vokalnya dapat dirasai secara jujur oleh pendengar. Beliau berharap single ini menjadi permulaan baharu yang lebih matang dalam perjalanan seninya. “Saya mahu lagu ini menjadi peneman buat mereka yang sedang berjuang melepaskan. Jika Aku Bukan Cinta mampu memberi kekuatan dan semangat kepada pendengar, itu sudah cukup bermakna buat saya,” ujarnya.

    Dengan melodi yang indah, susunan muzik yang segar serta mesej yang menyentuh jiwa, Aku Bukan Cinta diyakini mampu memikat hati pencinta muzik tempatan. Lagu ini kini boleh didengarkan di semua platform digital dan telah mula dimainkan di stesen radio utama termasuk Era FM. Video muzik rasmi Aku Bukan Cinta juga boleh ditonton di saluran YouTube rasmi Seventeen Eleven Music melalui pautan https://youtu.be/wwDJrzYmWjE?si=WvT8lsZtGPPayc1A.

  • Jessica Jung Set to Kick Off Her Tour in Malaysia as First Stop of the New Year

    Jessica Jung Set to Kick Off Her Tour in Malaysia as First Stop of the New Year

    Korean-American superstar Jessica Jung is set to make a spectacular return to Malaysia in early 2026, marking the first stop of her highly anticipated Tour. The concert will take place on 11 January 2026, Sunday, at 7:00 PM at the iconic Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting. This eagerly awaited event promises to deliver a multi-sensory experience for her devoted fans, fondly known as Golden Stars, combining her delicate vocals, captivating dance performances, and intimate storytelling. Every performance is carefully curated to reflect Jessica’s artistic journey, offering fans not only a night of music but also a celebration of her growth and achievements over the years.

    Since her debut with the legendary K-pop group Girls’ Generation (SNSD) in 2007, Jessica has evolved into a multi-hyphenate artiste, distinguishing herself in various creative fields. Her solo music career showcases her versatility, with EPs such as With Love, J, Wonderland (2016), My Decade (2017), and Beep Beep (2023), each reflecting a different stage of her artistic evolution. Jessica has collaborated with international artists, including American rapper Fabolous on “Fly” and Amber Liu on “Get It? Got It? Good”, in addition to delivering memorable solo hits like “Big Mini World”, “Summer Storm”, and “Falling Crazy in Love”. Her music often blends heartfelt lyrics with her remarkable vocal range, providing fans with both emotional depth and a dynamic performance experience.

    Beyond music, Jessica has made her mark on television, particularly in China, where she secured second place on Sisters Who Make Waves 3 and later appeared on Season 4 of The Treasured Voice. Her talents extend into fashion entrepreneurship as the founder of Blanc & Eclare, a globally recognized brand, and into literature as the author of the novels Shine and its sequel Bright. In addition, she has demonstrated her acting chops on stage and screen, starring in the Korean production of Legally Blonde and appearing in Chinese films such as I Love That Crazy Little Thing and My Other Home. Her multifaceted career underscores her ability to seamlessly blend music, fashion, acting, and writing, establishing her as a truly global icon.

    Tickets for the Malaysia leg of the Tour will be available from 20 November 2025, Thursday, at 3:00 PM, through www.fantopia.io and rwgenting.com. Ticket prices range from RM288 (PS4) to RM988 (VIP), with other options including RM488 (PS3), RM588 (PS2), and RM788 (PS1), all subject to a RM4 processing fee. This tiered pricing allows fans of all levels to experience the magic of Jessica’s live performances, from intimate settings to premium VIP experiences. For fans eager to stay updated, @ht.entertainmentcompany on Instagram will provide the latest news, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive announcements related to the tour.

    The Tour is not just a showcase of Jessica’s musical repertoire; it is a celebration of her artistic journey and the unwavering support of her fans. For Malaysian fans, this concert represents a rare opportunity to experience a global K-pop icon’s artistry up close. With her combination of breathtaking vocals, choreography, and storytelling, Jessica promises an unforgettable evening, making 11 January 2026 a date to remember in the hearts of Golden Stars across the region. This tour reaffirms her status as a global performer, an entrepreneur, and a creative force, and sets the perfect tone for an exciting start to the year 2026.

    If you want, I can also create a catchy, social-media-friendly version of this article that will grab attention for fans and ticket buyers. Do you want me to do that?

    JessicaJung

    ReflectionsTour2026

    LiveMusicMalaysia

    GoldenStars

  • Get Up to RM300 in Grab Vouchers and Exclusive Deals During HONOR’s 11.11 Mega Sale

    Get Up to RM300 in Grab Vouchers and Exclusive Deals During HONOR’s 11.11 Mega Sale

    HONOR Malaysia is making this year’s 11.11 online shopping festival bigger and better than ever, transforming it into a celebration of cutting-edge technology and unbeatable savings. From 10 to 13 November 2025, shoppers can enjoy exclusive Double 11 Special Voucher offers across HONOR’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop, featuring discounts of up to RM900 on selected smartphones, tablets, and wearables, alongside free gifts worth up to RM2,697.

    Adding more excitement to the four-day sale, HONOR is offering Grab Vouchers worth between RM50 and RM300 for purchases above RM500. Available from 8:00PM on 10 November until 11:59PM on 13 November, these vouchers give Malaysians the perfect opportunity to upgrade their devices while enjoying extra savings.

    Among the incredible deals, the HONOR Magic7 Pro (512GB) takes center stage with a RM900 discount, bringing the price down to RM3,699, while the 1TB variant is available for RM4,599, RM600 off its regular price. Known as a powerhouse for mobile photography enthusiasts, the HONOR Magic7 Pro features a 200MP telephoto camera, 50MP main camera, 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 3D Depth Camera, supported by AI Motion Sensing Capture, AI Enhanced Portrait, and Super Zoom capabilities. Built with the HONOR NanoCrystal Shield and powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform, it ensures durability and top-tier performance, complemented by a 5850mAh battery and 100W HONOR SuperCharge technology.

    Shoppers can also expect irresistible offers across the HONOR 400 Series, HONOR MagicPad, HONOR MagicBook Art 14 2025, and HONOR Watch 5 Ultra, each paired with exclusive free gifts such as HONOR Choice Earbuds, Smart Bluetooth Keyboards, warranty extensions, and more.

    As an added bonus, HONOR is giving away a FREE HONOR Casual Shoulder Bag worth RM149 to the first 200 buyers daily throughout the campaign period, while stocks last. This limited-time giveaway makes every purchase even more rewarding.

    “HONOR’s 11.11 campaign is all about celebrating innovation and giving back to our loyal customers,” said HONOR Malaysia in a statement. “We want Malaysians to enjoy premium technology at the most accessible prices of the year.”

    From sleek flagship phones to productivity-driven tablets and stylish wearables, HONOR’s 11.11 sale is the perfect time to grab premium devices at unbeatable deals. Shoppers can visit HONOR’s official online channels to enjoy the savings:

    • Shopee HONOR Official Store
    • Lazada HONOR Flagship Store
    • TikTok HONOR Malaysia Official Store
    • HONOR Malaysia Official Website

    Don’t miss the chance to grab your favorite HONOR gadgets and exclusive vouchers — this Double 11 celebration promises the best deals, biggest rewards, and ultimate shopping excitement of the year!

  • Survey Uncovers the Real Challenges Faced by Homeowners — Mounting Stress, Rising Costs, and Persistent Maintenance Problems

    Survey Uncovers the Real Challenges Faced by Homeowners — Mounting Stress, Rising Costs, and Persistent Maintenance Problems

    Malaysian homeowners are feeling the strain of constant home maintenance issues, as a new nationwide survey by Nippon Paint in collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Property & Facility Managers (MIPFM) reveals how recurring repair problems are draining families both emotionally and financially. Despite investing heavily in home repairs, many households say the fixes rarely last — leaving them trapped in a costly and frustrating cycle of maintenance.

    The study found that over 87% of homeowners have experienced waterproofing issues, with 65% reporting them within the past two years. Among the most common problems are damp walls (59%), visible leaks (56%), and cracks on ceilings or walls (43%), particularly in critical areas such as roofs and bathrooms. These recurring issues not only compromise safety and comfort but also reduce long-term property value. Alarmingly, despite spending between RM20 and RM99 per square foot on repairs, only 45% of respondents said the issues were fully resolved by professional services — highlighting an urgent need for higher industry standards and quality control.

    Emotionally, the impact on homeowners is profound. Over 57% of respondents admitted to feeling anxious or worried about their homes, while others reported frustration (51%), stress (35%), and even embarrassment (26%) when hosting guests. “Homeowners want peace of mind, but recurring issues are robbing them of that security,” said Haji Ishak bin Ismail, President of MIPFM. He added that the collaboration with Nippon Paint aims to raise awareness and accountability across the home maintenance industry to deliver more dependable and lasting solutions.

    Despite widespread awareness of waterproofing as a key part of home care, nearly one in three homeowners (29%) remain unclear about its importance. This gap in understanding means that problems often go untreated until they become severe — leading to higher costs and deeper frustration. The survey also revealed that even professional repairs are not always reliable, with many homeowners reporting only partial or temporary improvements.

    When asked what they value most in repair services, homeowners prioritized quality materials and workmanship (63.4%), long-term warranties (58%), transparent pricing (55%), and experienced applicators (54%) over affordability. These findings show that Malaysians are not merely looking for quick fixes, but rather peace of mind through lasting, accountable solutions.

    In response, Nippon Paint Malaysia’s General Manager, Mr. Tay Sze Tuck, emphasized the company’s commitment to preventive rather than reactive solutions. “We understand the frustration homeowners feel when issues keep recurring. Proper waterproofing is the first line of defence in protecting a home’s value and comfort. Our goal is to provide durable, easy-to-apply solutions that safeguard families in the long term,” he said. Nippon Paint’s range of waterproofing systems — including NippoSEAL Flex 100 and Flex 200 for slab and flat roofs, NippoCEM Standard 701 and Flex 901 for wet areas like bathrooms and balconies, and no-hacking options such as NippoSEAL Spartic Clear and Anti-Leak Waterproof Clear — reflects this preventive philosophy.

    Ultimately, the MIPFM–Nippon Paint survey serves as a wake-up call for homeowners, contractors, and policymakers alike. It underscores the importance of preventive maintenance, professional accountability, and public awareness to ensure that Malaysian families can enjoy safe, lasting, and stress-free homes for years to come.

    For more information on Nippon Paint’s waterproofing solutions, visit www.nipponpaint.com.my.

  • Warzone World Championship 2025: Pertarungan Global Bermula

    Warzone World Championship 2025: Pertarungan Global Bermula

    Penganjur Warzone World Championship 2025 (WWC 2025) menzahirkan penghargaan kepada media dan masyarakat atas perhatian yang diberikan terhadap acara tersebut serta memohon maaf secara terbuka berhubung kekeliruan dan salah faham yang timbul baru-baru ini. Menurut pihak penganjur, kelemahan dalam komunikasi dan promosi awal telah menimbulkan persepsi negatif, namun langkah segera telah diambil bagi memperbetulkan keadaan dan memastikan mesej sebenar acara difahami dengan jelas. WWC 2025 bukan medan pergaduhan, sebaliknya sebuah platform seni tempur profesional yang menekankan nilai disiplin, kawalan diri dan semangat kesukanan, dengan semua kategori pertandingan dijalankan secara tersusun mengikut struktur sukan tempur sah, diselia oleh panel juri dan wasit profesional serta menggunakan sistem pemarkahan berpandukan piawaian antarabangsa.

    Pihak penganjur juga telah menghantar surat rasmi kepada Pejabat Pesuruhjaya Sukan Malaysia untuk tujuan pendaftaran, dan proses permohonan dijangka mendapat kelulusan tidak lama lagi. Selain itu, siri perbincangan bersama agensi berkaitan dan pihak keselamatan tempatan turut diadakan untuk memastikan setiap aspek penganjuran berjalan mengikut prosedur dan peraturan yang ditetapkan. Keselamatan peserta dan penonton menjadi keutamaan, dengan langkah-langkah seperti pemeriksaan kesihatan wajib, kehadiran pasukan paramedik, kawalan keselamatan di pintu masuk, serta pelaksanaan Protokol Sukan Selamat (Safe Sport Protocol) bagi melindungi semua yang terlibat.

    Penganjur menegaskan bahawa WWC 2025 mengekalkan semangat “Medan Disiplin, Keberanian dan Kesukanan” sebagai asas penganjurannya, dengan fokus untuk membentuk jati diri dan semangat kesukanan, bukannya kekerasan. Acara ini dijadualkan berlangsung pada 6-7 Disember 2025 di N9 Arena, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, dan jualan tiket masih tersedia untuk peminat sukan tempur. Penganjur menekankan komitmen mereka untuk bertindak dengan ketelusan, profesionalisme dan tanggungjawab, memastikan WWC 2025 menjadi platform sukan tempur profesional yang selamat, beretika, diiktiraf di peringkat antarabangsa, serta menjadi simbol keberanian, disiplin dan semangat kesukanan sebenar bagi negara.

  • “Afgan Retrospektif Showcase” Terima Sambutan Hebat, Penyanyi Janji Hidupkan Lagu-Lagu Hits

    “Afgan Retrospektif Showcase” Terima Sambutan Hebat, Penyanyi Janji Hidupkan Lagu-Lagu Hits

    Peminat muzik di Malaysia bakal menyaksikan persembahan istimewa daripada penyanyi tersohor Indonesia, Afgan, apabila Afgan Retrospektif Showcase dijadualkan berlangsung pada 5 Disember 2025 di Zepp Kuala Lumpur. Showcase ini diadakan bersempena pelancaran album terbaru penyanyi berusia 36 tahun itu, bertajuk Retrospektif, yang mencerminkan perjalanan hidup dan kerjayanya sepanjang beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini. Sejak tiket mula dijual pada 1 Oktober 2025, jualan menerima sambutan luar biasa, membuktikan besarnya pengaruh dan keterujaan peminat di Malaysia untuk menyaksikan persembahan ini.

    Menurut Afgan, album Retrospektif menandakan titik balik dalam kerjayanya, kembali ke genre Indonesian Pop yang membesarkan namanya, selepas tujuh tahun tidak melancarkan album penuh berbahasa Indonesia. Pilihan Malaysia sebagai lokasi showcase bukan sekadar simbolik, tetapi juga kerana Kuala Lumpur dianggap sebagai “rumah kedua” penyanyi itu, di mana sokongan peminatnya amat luar biasa. Zepp Kuala Lumpur dipilih sebagai lokasi bagi mencipta suasana lebih kasual dan intim, sejajar dengan konsep muzik organik dan ‘raw’ yang diketengahkan dalam album baharu ini.

    Showcase ini akan menampilkan persembahan lagu-lagu baharu dari album Retrospektif, selain deretan hits popular Afgan seperti Ku Dengannya Kau Dengan Dia, Terima Kasih Cinta, Untukmu Aku Bertahan, Jodoh Pasti Bertemu, Bukan Cinta Biasa, Panah Asmara, Ada, Dia Dia Dia, Knock Me Out, Pendam, dan Wajahmu Mengalihkan Duniaku. Setiap lagu akan dibawakan dengan susunan muzik asal bagi memberikan pengalaman mendengar secara langsung yang jujur dan dekat dengan peminat Malaysia.

    Azlina, wakil penganjur Renjana Idea, berkata showcase ini bakal menjadi malam penuh emosi, nostalgia, dan memori buat peminat yang membesar dengan lagu-lagu Afgan. Peminat dijanjikan pengalaman muzik yang bukan sahaja menghibur, tetapi juga sarat makna, di mana setiap lagu mampu memberi kekuatan dan inspirasi dalam kehidupan seharian mereka.

    Tiket untuk Afgan Retrospektif Showcase boleh didapati di https://www.golive-asia.com dengan harga bermula dari RM358 (General Standing) hingga RM1,398 (VIP Box). Peminat digalakkan untuk membuat tempahan awal bagi memastikan tempat mereka menyaksikan persembahan epik ini dan merasai pengalaman mendengar lagu-lagu hits Afgan secara langsung buat kali pertama di Malaysia.

  • “Malam Simfoni Luka” — Malam Muzik Emosi dengan FOR REVENGE, INSOMNIACKS & MIDNIGHT FUSIC

    “Malam Simfoni Luka” — Malam Muzik Emosi dengan FOR REVENGE, INSOMNIACKS & MIDNIGHT FUSIC

    Para pencinta muzik tempatan bersiap sedia untuk sebuah malam penuh emosi dan melodi apabila tiga nama besar dalam dunia alternatif dan pop moden, For Revenge, Insomniacks, dan Midnight Fusic, bersatu di bawah satu pentas dalam konsert epik bertajuk “Malam Simfoni Luka” pada 24 Januari 2026 di Megastar Arena, Kuala Lumpur, jam 8 malam. Konsert ini dijangka membawa penonton menyelami perjalanan jiwa generasi muda melalui gabungan rasa duka, cinta, dan harapan yang disampaikan menerusi alunan muzik dan lirik yang sarat makna.

    For Revenge, terkenal sebagai band post-hardcore dengan persembahan bertenaga dan lirik mendalam, akan digandingkan dengan Insomniacks, yang membawakan pesona pop moden, serta Midnight Fusic, yang memikat dengan nuansa alternatif dreamy. Bersama-sama, mereka bakal mencipta pengalaman sonik yang bukan sekadar hiburan, tetapi juga menjadi medium terapi emosi, mengajak penonton merasai luka, kebangkitan, dan perjalanan hati melalui muzik.

    Selain persembahan utama, konsert ini turut menampilkan pencahayaan sinematik, susunan muzik live eksklusif, serta visual khas yang direka untuk menyemarakkan setiap emosi yang terkandung dalam lirik lagu artis-artis ini. Penonton dijanjikan pengalaman audiovisual yang menyeluruh, menjadikan setiap detik persembahan satu perjalanan emosi yang mendalam.

    Tiket untuk “Malam Simfoni Luka” akan mula dijual pada 14 November 2025, Jumaat jam 3 petang melalui laman rasmi www.ticket2u.com.my. Konsert ini diharapkan menjadi salah satu malam muzik paling berkesan pada tahun 2026, memikat hati penggemar muzik alternatif dan pop moden dari Malaysia dan serantau.

    MalamSimfoniLuka

    MidnightFusic

    PengalamanEmosi

    MegastarArena

    MuzikAlternatif

  • Lotus’s and MDT COL Renew Collaboration to Support Malaysian SMEs with 8th Buy Malaysian Products Campaign

    Lotus’s and MDT COL Renew Collaboration to Support Malaysian SMEs with 8th Buy Malaysian Products Campaign

    Lotus’s Stores (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Lotus’s Malaysia) has once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering Malaysian entrepreneurs with the launch of the eighth Buy Malaysian Products Campaign (BMC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (MDT COL) at Lotus’s Setia Alam. This annual initiative serves as a vital platform for local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to showcase their products and connect with a wider base of consumers nationwide, promoting homegrown innovation and economic growth.

    The campaign features a range of engaging activities, including product showcases, cooking demonstrations, samplings, and in-store promotions, allowing shoppers to explore and purchase Malaysian-made products directly from participating SMEs at affordable prices. The official launch was graced by Yang Berhormat Datuk Dr. Senator Hajah Fuziah Salleh, Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, alongside Azliza Azmel, Corporate Services Executive Director of Lotus’s Malaysia.

    “At Lotus’s, we believe local SMEs are the backbone of the Malaysian economy,” said Azliza. “Through this campaign, we want to continue providing a platform that helps them grow, scale, and reach more customers. Our long-term partnership with KPDN reflects our shared commitment to driving domestic economic growth and promoting national self-sufficiency. By showcasing local innovation and quality, we hope to inspire Malaysians to support homegrown brands, ensuring every Ringgit spent benefits local businesses and communities.”

    Beyond the BMC, Lotus’s Malaysia continues to invest in SME development and capacity-building initiatives, including biannual SME Fairs offering up to 50% discounts on selected products, active participation in business matching sessions organized by MDT COL, SME Empowerment Seminars, and ongoing business mentoring to enhance product marketability, sales, and quality. Since 2024, over 400 individuals from 150 companies have benefited from these programs, with seven SMEs from the latest seminar preparing to list their products at Lotus’s.

    SME and Social Entrepreneurs booth visit by Yang Berhormat Datuk Dr. Senator Hajah Fuziah Salleh, Deputy Minister of MDT COL, Azliza Azmel, Corporate Services Executive Director <lady in dark blue>

    The 2025 BMC features 19 participating SMEs, including 11 entrepreneurs from the latest SME Empowerment Seminar and five social entrepreneurs promoting initiatives such as adaptive activewear for persons with disabilities, employment opportunities for special needs adults, environmental education programmes, F&B empowerment, and sustainable protein solutions.

    Adding to the excitement, Lotus’s Setia Alam will host a one-day “Jualan Rahmah” promotion on 6 November 2025, offering up to 30% discounts on 75 selected SKUs, including groceries, household essentials, detergents, and fresh produce. During the campaign, several high-performing SME suppliers were also recognised for their consistent service and sales excellence, encouraging continuous improvement and competitiveness against established brands.

    For more information on the upcoming promotions and activities, shoppers can visit Lotus’s official channels: Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok.

    This collaborative initiative underscores Lotus’s Malaysia’s dedication to supporting local SMEs, strengthening domestic entrepreneurship, and encouraging Malaysians to champion homegrown products.

    LotussMalaysia

    BuyMalaysianProducts

    EconomicGrowthMalaysia

    SMEEmpowerment

  • Bisikan Qarin — Di Sebalik Seram, Mengungkap Pesan Akidah

    Bisikan Qarin — Di Sebalik Seram, Mengungkap Pesan Akidah

    TV AlHijrah terus meneguhkan kedudukannya sebagai stesen penyiaran Islam terkemuka negara dengan menayangkan telefilem terbaharu berjudul “Bisikan Qarin”, yang bakal menemui penonton pada Ahad, 9 November 2025, jam 9.00 malam. Diterbitkan oleh Sha’s Media Sdn. Bhd. dan diarahkan oleh Ayie Mustafa, karya ini mengangkat genre seram yang berpaksikan dakwah, membawa mesej mendalam tentang pergolakan antara logik, kepercayaan, dan kekuatan iman. Menariknya, telefilem ini akan ditayangkan secara eksklusif di aplikasi AlHijrah Plus (AH+) bermula 6 November 2025, tiga hari lebih awal daripada siaran televisyen, sebagai langkah strategik stesen untuk memperluas capaian dakwah digital dan memperkenalkan kandungan Islamik berkualiti kepada penonton mudah alih.

    “Bisikan Qarin” mengisahkan Dr. Hilal dan keluarganya yang berpindah ke sebuah rumah lama di kampung, di mana mereka menghadapi gangguan ghaib yang berpotensi mengelirukan akidah jika tidak berpaksikan ilmu dan keimanan kepada Allah SWT. Isterinya, Puan Husna, mula terpengaruh dengan cerita pembantu rumah tentang makhluk halus, namun kebenaran yang terbongkar akhirnya menjadi peringatan tentang tipisnya batas antara iman dan ilusi. Menurut Zulkarnaen Mokhtar, Pengurus Kanan Jabatan Kandungan TV AlHijrah, telefilem ini menekankan kepatuhan syariah dan nilai dakwah dalam setiap elemen visual dan dialog, agar hiburan tetap mendidik dan tidak menyesatkan.

    Sesi pra-tonton bersama media turut menampilkan perkongsian oleh Syed Ali Alattas bin Syed Hassan, Eksekutif Kanan Unit Pematuhan Syariah, yang menegaskan bahawa unsur seram perlu disampaikan dengan kefahaman syarak yang betul, supaya penonton tidak tunduk kepada ketakutan palsu, sebaliknya kembali kepada zikir dan doa. Telefilem ini menampilkan pelakon terkenal seperti Ashraf Muslim, Nadiya Nisaa, Intan Ladyana, Fezrul Khan, dan Rashidah Jaafar, menonjolkan keseimbangan antara kepercayaan, iman, dan kasih sayang keluarga dalam menghadapi ujian hidup, sambil menyeru masyarakat menjauhi amalan khurafat dan kembali kepada Al-Quran dan sunnah.

    “Bisikan Qarin” membuktikan bahawa karya seram boleh menjadi wahana tazkirah kreatif yang mendidik penonton agar menguatkan iman di tengah kekeliruan dan ketakutan duniawi. Penonton digalakkan menyaksikan kisah ini pada 9 November 2025, jam 9.00 malam di TV AlHijrah, untuk merasai pengalaman seram yang sarat mesej rohani dan menegur lembut hati agar kembali berpaut kepada Allah SWT.