Lifestyle

EOS R6 V with RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ. Canon Marketing Malaysia (“Canon”) today announced a new content creation kit comprising the EOS R6 V, a new full-frame camera, and the accompanying RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ, a first-ever full-frame professional-grade L-series lens that comes with a built-in power zoom. The EOS R6 V possesses the powerful stills and video performance of the EOS R6 Mark III in a body that has been optimised for video content creation. The upgrades include a built-in cooling fan and a social media content-friendly vertical tripod socket. Its full-frame CMOS sensor, with up to 32.5 effective megapixels and 7K Open Gate recording, allows users to utilise the full field of view of ultra-wide-angle lenses, opening different possibilities. The RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ pairs effortlessly with the EOS R6 V, giving you a compact, travel-friendly setup that doesn’t compromise on versatility. The 20–50mm zoom range covers everything from wide environmental shots to tighter conversational framing, while the built-in Power Zoom keeps transitions smooth and cinematic. With a constant f/4 aperture throughout, you get consistent, reliable exposure even as you zoom. “Today’s creators work across various platforms and formats. The EOS R6 V and RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ are built to deliver the performance and ease creators need to create confidently, whether for professional productions or everyday content. This is part of Canon’s ongoing commitment to innovation and ‘Delighting You Always’,” said Edward Chang, Head of Image Communication Business Division, Canon Marketing Malaysia. More Platforms, Less SweatThe EOS R6 V features 7K Open Gate RAW/MP4 shooting, which records video via the entire sensor area. With this, the new camera offers creators more flexibility over what goes into the frame when repurposing horizontal content into a vertical format. Users achieve more creative control without having to do multiple shoots. The EOS R6 V’s built-in cooling fan also allows users to record in 7K Open Gate MP4 for approximately three times longer when compared to the EOS R6 Mark III. This makes the EOS R6 V ideal for long interviews, live events, or long single takes. The EOS R6 V is built natively for vertical content. A dedicated vertical tripod socket delivers direct, stable mounting without the need for an extra bracket, while the UI automatically reorientates to match, keeping the shooting experience seamless from start to finish. Its linear design with minimal protrusions also integrates cleanly with rigs, attachments and accessories. Make Your Videos DynamicBoth the EOS R6 V and RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ are compact and lightweight, making them easy to use while on the move. With built-in image stabilisation, they are also easy to use handheld or on a gimbal and rig. The EOS R6 V’s built-in five-axis sensor-shift image stabilisation system (In-Body IS) and Digital Movie IS coordinate with the RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ’s Optical IS to stabilise footage shot on the go. The setup also supports the Subject Tracking IS mode, which accounts for the subject position during stabilisation. The EOS R6 V retains a large, ergonomic grip that offers comfort and a stable hold during handheld shooting. The RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ’s 20mm wide-end is ideal for stunning, and perspective-rich establishment shots. These can show plenty of context, including stunning interior scenes. Additionally, its 50mm long end offers a 0.24m minimum focusing distance that captures close-up shots with a natural perspective. Users can make use of the zoom ring or the EOS R6 V’s zoom lever to zoom seamlessly from one end to the other in one smooth take. They can also vary the degree of ring/lever movement to alternate between two zoom speeds. Fast and slow zooming are configurable up to 15 levels each. A new zoom mode selector switch enables switching between power zooming and the familiar manual zoom operations found on conventional zoom lenses. The lens barrel length does not change when zooming, so support systems will not require rebalancing. Superior StillsWhen placed in stills mode, the EOS R6 V shares the powerful performance of the EOS R6 Mark III and EOS C50. The high-resolution 32.5-megapixel full-frame sensor captures excellent detail and dynamic range, with ample allowance to crop in closer or produce 300 dpi A3-sized prints comfortably. The RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ’s professional-grade optics are specially designed to combat distortion, chromatic aberration, flare and ghosting, thus ensuring high image quality. The EOS R6 V’s electronic shutter supports up to 40 fps continuous shooting and pre-shooting, with identical autofocus features and capabilities as the EOS R6 Mark III. The In-Body IS achieves a stabilisation effect of up to 7.5 stops at the centre and 7.0 stops at the image edges when shooting stills. The RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ performs extremely well when shooting in low light, with its built-in Optical IS correcting camera shake by up to 6 stops’ equivalent. When mounted on an EOS R series camera with In-Body IS, it achieves an effect of up to 8.0 stops at the centre and 8.0 stops at the edges. Capture Yourself EffortlesslyThe EOS R6 V and RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ allow creators to film themselves easily. The former has a front recording button and tally lamp that lights up when recording is in progress, and the latter’s zoom ring is easily accessible from the front. Users requiring remote camera and zoom control can achieve them via the Camera Connect app. Another alternative that users can consider is the new Wireless Remote Controller BR-E2, which allows for creative camera placement. The Bluetooth-connected Wireless Remote Controller BR-E2 offers users greater control over both still and video shooting functions compared to its predecessor (Wireless Remote Shutter BR-E1), including a dedicated movie shooting button and assignable functions. It comes included with the new Tripod Grip HG-200TBR, a portable tripod grip that can function as a desktop tripod and a selfie stick. Powerful and Cost-Efficient DuoThe EOS R6 V and RF20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ integrate many of Canon’s powerful features, making them an excellent,

Daphne Chan and Iven Lai won’t tell you an Executive MBA is easy. Instead, they’ll tell you what it actually requires: trade-offs, support, and a good heaping of ruthless prioritization. Daphne is an Asia School of Business (ASB) EMBA Class of 2024 alumna, while Iven is a current EMBA student in the Class of 2026. As parents to a young daughter, Anya, they juggle demanding careers in banking, family life, and their EMBA journey. In this interview, they tackle the question many working parents ask before they ever apply: Is an EMBA too much when you already have a career—and a family?   They had a plan. But overnight, everything changed. Daphne says it with a laugh, looking at Anya: “We actually planned to have you after I completed my EMBA.” But Anya had other plans. “When I first found out I was pregnant… I was like, ‘oops, you came early.’” It was, as she puts it, “pure shock”—followed quickly by excitement.  Anya’s arrival posed a new kind of question: not Should we do this? But How do we do this now?  For Daphne, it came down to one thing: “It’s really prioritizing. I knew my priorities at that time, and I knew I needed to stay flexible.”  Iven reached the same conclusion through an analytical lens. “I view life like a portfolio,” he says, “and time is my finite resource.” When time is finite, squeezing everything in stops being the goal. Allocating it does. “I had to allocate my time… for her, family, hobbies or studies,” he explains. His decision was clear: “More time spent on the baby and studies, and the rest… like hobbies take kind of a backseat for now.”  Prioritizing and allocating time helped them make the week workable. But even the best system gets tested.  The hardest stretch “There was a time,” Daphne says, when Anya would wake “four times… in seven hours.” In the middle of that blur, she remembers thinking: “Whoa, I really need a break. Why did I do this to myself?”  And even in that fog of parenthood, nothing else pauses. Work still expects them sharp, and assignments still come due. What kept them going then wasn’t pushing harder. It was speaking up before they burnt out.   “Definitely there’s a time when we are both exhausted,” Daphne says. “For me personally, I will definitely communicate it… ‘I think I need a break… just give me one or two hours, then I’ll recharge and come back.’” Open communication, she adds, “is key.”  Iven describes what that looked like at home: switching off without keeping score. “Whenever she feels tired, then I will step up,” he says. “Whenever I feel tired… she will step up and take a more leading role.”  They couldn’t create more time. So they built around the time they had.  What made it possible For Iven, that meant using whatever pockets already existed. “Sometimes during commutes, I would… watch videos or listen to articles,” he says. At home, the window was simple: “study after she sleeps.”  It also meant being upfront with the people he was accountable to. “Most of my EMBA group discussions, I will tell them that, ‘hey, I know we need to have a discussion… but can we do it after Anya sleeps?’” Once that constraint was on the table, the group could plan around it. “Most of the discussions are done around 9 to 10 pm when Anya’s asleep.”  And the reality was none of this works without support. Iven doesn’t pretend otherwise. “Fortunately, I have quite a good support system,” he says. At home: “My mother helps to take care of the household.” At work: “I have a good team that I can depend on.” And at school: “I have a great cohort, teammates that understand my situation.”  The outcome wasn’t a perfectly balanced life. But it was a workable one.  So—is it too much? Some days can be a stretch. Daphne and Iven don’t dress it up. But even now, they would still do it all over again.   Daphne calls the experience “transformational”—a change in how she sees herself and the roles she carries. For Iven, it shows up as “laser focus”: “I know that I have no time to waste anymore,” he says. “My time is so limited.”  And if there’s one thing they want other working parents to hear, it’s this: don’t wait for perfect timing. “You will never find a perfect time. There’s no perfect time,” Daphne says. Still, she adds, “if you’re determined enough, it will work out… so just do it.”  Iven echoes the same belief: “Just take the plunge into the EMBA, and everything will work out eventually.” Daphne agrees: “Both journeys are equally rewarding—having your own child and the pursuit of knowledge!” 

Tune Talk today announced the launch of Tune Talk Shop, the first fully integrated in-app e-commerce platform powered by Presto. As the first telecommunications provider in Malaysia to embed a complete commerce experience within its mobile app, Tune Talk is redefining the category from a price-led “GB for RM” model to a value-driven digital ecosystem. The new feature reinforces Tune Talk’s leadership position by shifting the role of a telco from a connectivity provider to a “Techo”, an everyday platform that delivers tangible lifestyle value. Moving Beyond Price Competition to Value Creation For years, the telecommunications industry has competed primarily on data pricing and volume. Tune Talk is deliberately moving away from this model. Tune Talk Shop introduces a new paradigm where connectivity is only one part of a broader value equation. By integrating commerce directly into its ecosystem, the company enables subscribers to derive real, everyday benefits from their mobile usage. This approach transforms customer engagement from transactional top-ups into continuous value creation, where spending, rewards, and consumption are interconnected within a single platform. Malaysia’s First Fully Integrated Telco E-Commerce Experience Unlike standalone marketplaces or bolt-on rewards catalogues, Tune Talk Shop is built as a native layer within the Tune Talk app. Subscribers can browse, purchase, and receive products without leaving the platform, with every step enhanced by Tune Talk’s proprietary value system. Key capabilities include: · Access to over 20,000 curated products· Fully integrated in-app browsing, checkout, and payment· Flexibility to use Tune Talk Points as part of the total transaction value· Nationwide doorstep delivery Tune Talk owns and manages the end-to-end experience and payment environment, ensuring security and seamless transactions, while its partner Presto powers the backend infrastructure, including the product catalogue and nationwide fulfilment. This architecture ensures that commerce is not an add-on feature, but a core extension of the Tune Talk ecosystem. Scaling on Strong Engagement Fundamentals Tune Talk’s ecosystem strategy is underpinned by strong user engagement. Since the introduction of Games and Drama in May 2025, internal data shows that average daily app usage has reached 36 minutes, approximately 400 percent above global telco app benchmarks. This level of engagement provides a scalable foundation for commerce integration, enabling Tune Talk to deepen customer relationships and increase lifetime value. Expanding Tune Talk’s Digital Ecosystem Since enhancing its app experience in 2025 with additional digital features, Tune Talk has continued to expand its services beyond traditional telecommunications. With more than 1.8 million subscribers nationwide, the company is strengthening its proprietary platform as a multi-service digital destination. The introduction of Tune Talk Shop builds on this strategy by adding e-commerce capabilities to increase everyday usage while continuously unlocking new products and services for its customer base. Capturing Growth in Malaysia’s E-Commerce Market The launch comes amid sustained growth in Malaysia’s digital e-commerce sector, which serves an estimated 18.8 million online shoppers and is projected to expand by approximately 10 percent annually. Malaysian consumers spend an average of RM182 per month online, reflecting strong mobile-first purchasing behaviour. By integrating shopping directly into its platform, Tune Talk offers subscribers a convenient, single integrated channel while expanding its participation in the country’s growing digital economy. “This shift for Tune Talk reflects our commitment to our customers. We are moving beyond competing solely on GB for RM to providing the best plans and ever-evolving value that truly resonates with Malaysians. Tune Talk Shop is not just an e-commerce feature; it is a fully integrated platform that connects connectivity, rewards, and transactions into one seamless experience,” said Gurtaj Singh Padda, Co-founder and CEO of Tune Talk. “We are proud to enable Tune Talk’s vision by providing the marketplace infrastructure and fulfilment capabilities behind Tune Talk Shop. This partnership allows Tune Talk to scale commerce within its ecosystem while maintaining full ownership of the customer experience,” said Prawn Cheng, CEO of Presto.

Hello Kitty creator Sanrio Co is launching a new gaming brand as it looks to monetise its popular characters and expand into the fast-growing global video games market. The new division, Sanrio Games, will feature the company’s characters in a party-style game for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 consoles. Around 10 titles are planned over the next three years, with the first release expected this fall. The games will include a wide range of Sanrio characters and be set in a themed town where players can create and customise their own avatars. Several titles are already in pre-production and development, with a second game scheduled for release by March 2027. Sanrio has outlined plans for at least six titles under its medium-term strategy, with total investment of about ¥10 billion (US$62.9 million or RM250 million) for development and marketing. The company said the gaming business may initially post losses due to high development costs of around ¥2 billion per title, but added that this is not expected to have a significant impact on overall group performance. Analysts said the success of the new venture will depend on whether Sanrio can fully leverage its strong character portfolio to create engaging game content, noting that any hit title could become a key growth driver. Sanrio’s move reflects a wider trend among Japanese intellectual property owners, such as Bandai Namco Holdings and Nintendo, which have long expanded popular characters into gaming and other entertainment formats. The company has also been expanding its characters into other media, including film. A Hello Kitty movie is scheduled for global release in July 2028, marking the character’s Hollywood debut. In February, Sanrio raised its full-year operating profit forecast by 7% to ¥75.1 billion, reflecting confidence in demand as it expands into new business areas.

A century since it first opened its doors, 1926 Heritage Hotel is now relaunched, breathing new life as part of The Unlimited Collection by The Ascott Limited. On a storied stretch of Jalan Burma in George Town, Penang, 1926 Heritage Hotel emerges as a living chapter of the city’s story, where heritage architecture and contemporary comforts exist in quiet harmony. Originally built in 1926 as British official residences for administrative officers of the time, the property has been thoughtfully restored after a century, preserving its architectural character while reintroducing it for today’s travellers. A façade of clean white and harmonious beige reflects the hotel’s colonial influence, boasting elements of Anglo-Malay architecture prevalent during the transitional era of George Town. At the entrance, return time and again to its logo of a palm tree flanked by two panthers, your sign that you are home. “As travel is increasingly shaped by culture and experience, we are seeing growing demand for destinations with a strong sense of identity. In line with Visit Malaysia 2026, 1926 Heritage Hotel offers a distinctive Penang story that connects travellers to the destination in a more meaningful and authentic way. Marking its centennial, the property has been carefully revitalised with respect for its original character, ensuring it remains part of Penang’s heritage for generations to come,” said Mondi Mecja, Country General Manager, Ascott Malaysia. Part of Penang’s Story Reimagined for the modern guest, the hotel’s design captures the spirit of old Penang through every preserved corridor and redefined space. Its main double doors lead visitors into the main reception area within the central bungalow. The lobby welcomes all with a signature art feature wall boasting French-inspired straw marquetry also telling the tale of palm trees and panthers. Each corner is not merely a nod to the past but a respectful continuation of it, where Penang’s Straits-style charm meets understated modern luxury. For those seeking a more lavish space, the Straits Suite provides a truly expansive stay, with a separate bedroom, living area and study. Subtle, considered details — from plush bedding to premium bath essentials — enhance the experience, allowing guests to unwind in comfort or step out refreshed to explore the surrounding neighbourhood. For a more intimate, nature-connected stay, the 52 sqm Heritage Garden Patio Room, located on the ground floor, features a private outdoor patio and garden. With easy access to the pool area and a tranquil, greenery-lined setting, it is ideal for guests seeking a restful retreat with a closer connection to their surroundings. Made for Leisure and Business Beyond a good night’s rest, convene, converge and connect with the latest conveniences within a thoughtfully designed interior to make the most out of your stays. Congregate within two meeting rooms, the Burma Room and Heritage Hall, awash with natural daylight for productive gatherings. Work out at a modern gym outfitted with the latest equipment, allowing you to maintain your fitness routines with ease. Rejuvenate at the contemporary Asian-inspired spa by Sensorium, a tranquil space for renewal with treatments that balance relaxation with restoration. Relax by the outdoor pool, framed by lush tropical landscaping and greenery, offering a calm retreat away from the bustle of the city. At the end of a long day, gather and ground oneself again at the central courtyard garden, a slice of green, shaded oasis ideal for retreat and relaxation. Taste George Town’s Identity The hotel’s dining experience centres on its Chinese bistro, Root House by Gēn, which reimagines the culinary heritage of Malaysia’s Chinese diaspora community. By the hands of chef-founder Johnson Wong — whose Penang restaurant Gēn re-entered Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026, the menu draws on local ingredients, diaspora influences and the culinary traditions of diverse Chinese communities, reflecting how dishes have travelled, adapted and evolved across regions. Inspired by the movement between Malaysia and China, the concept explores how flavours shift over time — shaped by new environments, ingredients and cultural exchanges. This continuous journey of adaptation and rediscovery is expressed through a menu that is both rooted in tradition yet expressed through a lens that tells the story of Penang’s evolution. The experience is further complemented by U-Bar, a long bar offering curated drinks in a relaxed setting ideal for socialising and unwinding. The Heritage Collection by Daily Coffee serves as the hotel’s all-day dining concept, offering a more relaxed and accessible setting. Available from breakfast through to dinner, it showcases a comforting mix of local favourites and familiar classics, reflecting the everyday flavours and energy of Penang as one of Malaysia’s culinary capitals. The U-Shop, showcases curated selection of artisanal products and merchandise sourced from across Penang. At 1926 Heritage Hotel, the story of Penang is seamlessly woven into every aspect of the stay, from heritage and mindfulness to nourishment and rest. True to The Unlimited Collection’s philosophy, the 1926 Heritage Hotel connects guests to the neighbourhood’s vibrant surroundings, from the cultural charm of Nagore Square and the heritage temples of Lorong Burma to the creative pulse of Hin Bus Depot. Here, guests are encouraged to explore Penang’s living culture just steps from the hotel’s doorstep. Opening Promotion For a limited time only, experience cultural immersion and sophisticated tranquillity at one of Penang’s most preferred addresses with an exclusive opening promotion. From now until 31 July 2026, book a Heritage Room from only RM428++ per room per night, complete with complimentary daily breakfast for two persons. For reservations and enquiry, email: [email protected].

In an extraordinary display of talent, discipline, and innovation, two young Malaysian brothers, Parsa and Rohan, have achieved four major titles within 24 hours, spanning global technology platforms and international sports competitions. Parsa Talk in GITEX Asia in Singapore about Minedu AI Primary_ AI Avatar Tutor. This rare accomplishment marks a powerful convergence of artificial intelligence innovation and elite athletic performance, positioning the duo among the most promising young talents in the region. Rohan Gold Medal and Special Award in MTE, under Asian Youth Innovation Award. Youngest Speaker at GITEX Asia Showcases Malaysian AI Innovation At the prestigious GITEX Asia 2026 held in Singapore on 9–10 April, Mohammad Parsa Bin Behran Parhizkar made history as the youngest speaker ever at the global technology event. Representing Minedu AI, Parsa presented the latest innovation, “Minedu AI Primary”—an advanced AI Avatar Tutor designed to transform science education for primary school students. The platform integrates real-time voice interaction, adaptive learning pathways, and personalized AI-driven engagement to enhance comprehension and retention. His presentation articulated a forward-looking vision for Education 5.0, where AI, educators, and parents collaborate seamlessly to deliver tailored learning experiences for every child. Parsa & Rohan 3 Gold and 1 Silver Medal in ASJJF (Asian Cup) Jiu Jitsu. Gold Medal and Best Innovation Award at Malaysia Technology Expo Simultaneously in Kuala Lumpur, Mohammad Rohan Parhizkar represented Minedu AI at the Malaysia Technology Expo 2026 (MTE 2026), competing under the Asian Young Innovators Award (AYIA) category. Competing against leading young innovators across the region, Rohan secured a Gold Medal for the Minedu AI platform. In addition, the project was honoured with a Special Award — Best Innovation Award, recognising its outstanding originality, real-world applicability, and potential impact in transforming primary education through AI. Dominating the Mat at ASJJF 2026 Within 24 hours of their technological achievements, both brothers competed at the Asian Sport Jiu-Jitsu Federation (ASJJF 2026) Championship held in Kuala Lumpur. Demonstrating exceptional discipline and competitive excellence, they achieved a combined total of: 3 Gold Medals 1 Silver Medal across both Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu divisions. A New Benchmark for Youth Excellence This dual achievement across technology and sport reflects a broader shift in the development of future talent—where intellectual capability, innovation, and physical performance are cultivated in parallel. As co-founders of Minedu AI, Parsa and Rohan are contributing to the advancement of AI-driven education solutions aimed at: Expanding access to quality education Personalising learning experiences at scale Bridging the gap between curiosity and real-time understanding   National and Regional Significance Their accomplishments highlight Malaysia’s growing strength in nurturing future-ready, multidisciplinary talent capable of competing on both global technology stages and international sports arenas. This milestone represents more than individual success—it signals the emergence of a new generation that is not only prepared for the future but actively shaping it.

Aquawalk Group Bhd is expected to increase its long-term earnings contribution by RM2.6 million after taking full ownership of the company developing a new oceanarium in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The move gives Aquawalk complete control over the project, which is anticipated to become a major tourist attraction in the region. With full ownership, the group stands to benefit from the oceanarium’s operational revenue, ticket sales, and associated commercial activities, strengthening its overall earnings profile. Industry observers said the oceanarium is expected to complement Aquawalk’s existing portfolio of leisure and entertainment assets, providing a steady stream of recurring revenue once the facility becomes fully operational. “The acquisition aligns with our strategy to expand our presence in experiential leisure offerings and capitalise on the growing tourism sector in Sabah,” the group said in a statement. The development is also expected to contribute to local economic growth, creating jobs and supporting related businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors. With this latest acquisition, Aquawalk aims to reinforce its position as a leading player in Malaysia’s leisure and entertainment industry, while diversifying its revenue streams and enhancing long-term shareholder value.

The M∙A∙C∙ Clinic reaffirmed its commitment to ethical aesthetics, community engagement and charitable impact through its participation as a Gold Sponsor at the prestigious St. Patrick’s Ball 2026, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most anticipated cultural and social events organised by St Patricks’ Society of Selangor. Bringing together members of the diplomatic, business and social communities, the annual St. Patrick’s Ball is more than a celebration of Irish heritage — it is a platform that fosters cultural exchange, philanthropy and meaningful connections across diverse communities. M∙A∙C∙ Clinic’s involvement reflects the brand’s growing role as a leader in responsible aesthetic medicine that extends beyond clinical excellence into social purpose. The evening also held special significance for Dr Hew Yin Keat, Founder and Medical Director of M∙A∙C∙ Clinic, whose professional and personal ties to Ireland make the occasion particularly meaningful. A graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (MB BCh BAO, Ireland), Dr Hew spent five formative years in Dublin during his medical training — an experience that shaped both his medical philosophy and global outlook in healthcare and aesthetics. The evening highlighted M∙A∙C∙ Clinic’s philosophy that aesthetics should be grounded in integrity, education and long-term wellness. By supporting events that unite communities while contributing to charitable causes, M∙A∙C∙ Clinic continues to position itself at the intersection of beauty, ethics and social responsibility. “True aesthetics is not about transformation for vanity, but confidence built through responsible care and ethical practice,” said Dr Hew Yin Keat, Founder and Medical Director of M∙A∙C∙ Clinic. “Our participation in the St. Patrick’s Ball reflects our belief that healthcare and aesthetics brands have a responsibility to contribute positively to society — supporting community initiatives, cultural dialogue and charitable efforts that bring people together.” In a strong show of affiliation with community-driven initiatives, M∙A∙C∙ Clinic Ambassadors Lee Yvonne, Sanjna Suri and Ashlyn Ooi were also in attendance, representing the clinic’s shared values of confidence, authenticity and social responsibility. Their presence underscored M∙A∙C∙ Clinic’s belief that ambassadors are not only brand representatives, but advocates for meaningful engagement and positive community impact. Joining partners, friends and supporters at the celebration, the M∙A∙C∙ Clinic delegation reflected the brand’s commitment to building connections beyond the clinic — reinforcing how wellness and beauty brands can actively contribute to cultural diplomacy by supporting platforms that encourage shared experiences and collective goodwill. As M∙A∙C∙ Clinic continues to expand its presence in Malaysia’s aesthetic landscape, the brand remains committed to advancing ethical aesthetics — prioritising patient safety, transparency and holistic wellbeing while actively supporting initiatives that create social and community impact.

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.