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CUCKOO International (MAL) Berhad (CUCKOO Malaysia) has expanded its partnership with Samsung Malaysia Electronics Sdn Bhd (Samsung) with the launch of a refreshed lineup of premium smart home solutions aimed at promoting healthier and smarter living. CUCKOO International (MAL) Berhad and Samsung Malaysia Electronics (SME) Sdn Bhd have strengthened their partnership with a refreshed lineup of premium home solutions designed to make modern living smarter, healthier, and more accessible. The initiative, branded as the “CUCKOO Smart Healthy Home Co-Created Programme with Samsung,” forms part of CUCKOO’s Co-Created business segment, which features curated home appliances and lifestyle products developed through collaborations with partners such as LSK, OGAWA Malaysia, and Fujiaire. The launch follows CUCKOO Malaysia’s strong financial performance for the fourth quarter ended Dec 31, 2025 (Q4FY2025), where profit after tax rose 171% quarter-on-quarter to RM36.5 million, driven by improved margins and stronger credit management strategies. For the full financial year, CUCKOO Malaysia reported RM1.1 billion in revenue and RM105.2 million in profit after tax, reflecting steady growth in its core business. The company’s Co-Created segment remains a key contributor to its performance, generating RM221.1 million, or 20.1% of total FY2025 revenue, maintaining a similar contribution level to FY2024. CUCKOO Malaysia CEO Hoe Kian Choon also unveiled key initiatives, including the company’s Strategic Partner role for Visit Malaysia 2026, installation of water stations at KLIA Terminals 1 and 2, continuation of brand ambassadors Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza and Phei Yong, and the launch of CUCKOO’s first-ever mascot, HEPI. The results highlight the effectiveness of CUCKOO’s rental-led business model, which allows consumers to access premium home wellness products through affordable monthly plans while delivering consistent earnings for the company. Among the newly introduced products is the Samsung Bespoke AI Laundry Combo (12/7 kg), a washer-dryer featuring AI-powered washing technology, EcoBubble™, Air Wash and Hygiene Steam functions designed to optimise cleaning and maintain garment hygiene. The product also includes professional installation and semi-annual maintenance by CUCKOO Home Care Specialists, along with a three-year warranty. The refreshed lineup features the Samsung Bespoke AI Laundry Combo (12/7 kg), a washer-dryer with AI Wash and EcoBubble™, as well as Air Wash, and Hygiene Steam, supported by professional installation, semi-annual maintenance, and an exclusive 3-year warranty from CUCKOO. The lineup also includes the 65-inch Samsung QLED QEF1 4K Vision AI Smart TV, which features Quantum Dot display technology, SmartThings integration, and cadmium-free materials, supported by a three-year warranty. Completing the range is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ (256GB), equipped with a 13.1-inch display, Exynos 1580 processor, 12GB RAM, and a 10,090mAh battery with 45W fast charging. The tablet is IP68-rated for durability and comes with an S Pen and a three-year warranty. Notably, the launch marks the first time advanced AI-powered Samsung technologies are being offered through CUCKOO’s rental model, allowing households to access high-end smart home devices without significant upfront costs. CUCKOO Malaysia chief executive officer Hoe Kian Choon said the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to delivering greater value through strategic partnerships. “Our co-created business segment is built on the belief that collaboration unlocks greater value. By combining Samsung’s technological expertise with CUCKOO’s proven rental model, we aim to make smarter and healthier living more accessible for Malaysian households,” he said. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, said CUCKOO Malaysia’s role as a strategic partner is commendable, aligning perfectly with the agency’s goal of showcasing a modern, healthy, and welcoming Malaysia to the world. During a Buka Puasa event, CUCKOO Malaysia also announced several initiatives, including its appointment as a Strategic Partner for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), the installation of CUCKOO water stations at KLIA Terminals 1 and 2, the continuation of Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza and Phei Yong as brand ambassadors, and the introduction of its first mascot, HEPI. Hoe added that these initiatives reflect the company’s broader mission of promoting healthier lifestyles not only at home but also in public spaces. Meanwhile, Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, said Malaysia’s tourism sector continues to gain momentum, with the country welcoming over 42.2 million international arrivals in 2025. He noted that collaborations such as CUCKOO’s support for Visit Malaysia 2026 will help position the country as a destination that prioritises wellbeing and modern lifestyle experiences for visitors.

The YTL Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications, with the deadline set for 30 April 2026. Established in 1997, the scholarship aims to support talented Malaysians in pursuing their first undergraduate degree in Malaysia. As part of YTL Group’s long-standing commitment to nation-building, the scholarship reflects its philosophy of “Building The Right Thing”, investing in education as a cornerstone for lasting social impact. By empowering young Malaysians with access to quality education and development opportunities, the YTL Foundation seeks to nurture future leaders who can uplift communities, drive progress, and contribute meaningfully to the nation. Beyond financial support, the scholarship provides a holistic development experience. Scholars gain access to structured leadership and personal development programmes, mentorship and coaching, and annual paid internships within the YTL Group. These opportunities expose scholars to real-world work environments, professional best practices, and potential career pathways within a Bursa Malaysia Top 20 company. To guide prospective applicants, the YTL Foundation will host online info sessions throughout March and April 2026, covering scholarship types, benefits, the application and selection process, and tips for submitting a strong application. Participants can engage in live Q&A sessions and hear from current YTL Scholars about their academic journeys, development experiences, and internships. “At YTL Foundation, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals by providing not just access to education, but also guidance, exposure, and values that help scholars grow into responsible leaders. Through our scholarship programme, we hope to empower talented Malaysians to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s future,” said Programme Director Dato’ Kathleen Chew. The scholarship is open to Malaysian students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and genuine financial need. Eligible candidates must have qualifications such as SPM/IGCSE, STPM, Matriculation, Foundation, A-Levels, or the International Baccalaureate, and must be pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree in Malaysia. Successful applicants will receive full tuition coverage, living allowances, and allowances for essential learning tools, including a laptop, phone, or data plan. The Yeoh Tiong Lay Award Each year, one outstanding scholar may be selected for the Yeoh Tiong Lay Award, a prestigious overseas scholarship recognising candidates who excel academically while demonstrating strong values, altruism, and meaningful community engagement. The award honours the legacy of the late Tan Sri Dr Yeoh Tiong Lay, celebrating individuals who embody integrity, moral responsibility, and a commitment to building a better society through purpose-driven leadership.

As the ringgit strengthens and more Malaysians plan overseas trips during the festive season, a growing number of travellers are turning to the TNG eWallet Visa Travel Card to manage their spending abroad. The travel card, recently introduced within the TNG eWallet app, offers cashback rewards on overseas spending, allowing users to earn money back on purchases made while travelling. Under the current promotion, travellers can enjoy up to 5% unlimited cashback on overseas spending until April 30, 2026. After the promotional period ends, the card will continue to offer up to 3% unlimited cashback on international transactions until Dec 31, 2026. The feature is designed to help Malaysians stretch their travel budgets further by rewarding spending across international destinations. In addition to cashback benefits, the card also provides real-time mid-market exchange rates, which can offer better value for ringgit when making purchases in foreign currencies. This allows travellers to make payments overseas without worrying about unfavourable exchange rates. The Visa Travel Card can be used globally at any merchant that accepts Visa, providing travellers with a convenient payment option for shopping, dining, transportation, and other travel expenses. Users can also withdraw cash at ATMs worldwide, with one free withdrawal allowed each month. To encourage adoption, TNG eWallet is offering a first-year annual fee waiver along with RM35 cashback upon card activation. With travel demand continuing to rise, digital travel cards like the TNG eWallet Visa Travel Card are gaining popularity among Malaysian travellers looking for convenience, competitive exchange rates, and cashback rewards while spending overseas.