Lifestyle

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.

KPJ Healthcare Berhad (KPJ Healthcare) has officially launched its first Neuroscience and Stroke Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 (DSH2). This marks the second CoE under the KPJ Health System (KPJHS), enhancing the Group’s specialised capabilities in complex neurological and stroke care. [Sixth from Left] YBhg. Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim, President and Chief Executive, Johor Corporation (JCorp) and Chairman of KPJ Healthcare University together with [Sixth from Right] Mr Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare, [Fifth from Left] Prof Dato’ Dr Hanafiah Harunarashid, Chief Medical Director of KPJ Healthcare, [Fifth from Right] Dr Nor Liyana Khairuddin, Chief Executive Officer of Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 and Consultants of DSH2 taking a commemorative photo prior to the CoE launching ceremony. The Centre establishes structured clinical pathways for high-acuity neurological cases, ensuring rapid coordination across emergency care, imaging, intensive care, and rehabilitation. Its integrated model brings together multidisciplinary teams in neurology, neurosurgery, emergency medicine, radiology, intensive care, and rehabilitation, enabling faster decision-making, timely interventions, and seamless continuity of care for stroke patients. Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim, President and CEO of Johor Corporation and Chairman of KPJ Healthcare University, said the launch strengthens KPJHS as a fully integrated healthcare ecosystem, connecting hospitals, education, and research. “By benchmarking against global leaders and advancing innovation, we are building a system that delivers better outcomes while positioning KPJ Healthcare at the forefront of regional healthcare,” he said. Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare, highlighted the Centre’s role in managing complex neurological emergencies through aligned facilities, clinical expertise, and structured governance. YBhg. Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim, President and Chief Executive, Johor Corporation (JCorp) and Chairman of KPJ Healthcare University during his speech at the launching ceremony of Neuroscience and Stroke Centre of Excellence. The DSH2 CoE provides a complete stroke care pathway, from emergency activation and hyperacute interventions to critical care and early rehabilitation. Patients have 24-hour access to advanced CT and MRI imaging and mechanical thrombectomy for acute stroke. Coordinated workflows enable door-to-needle thrombolysis within 60 minutes, meeting international benchmarks. The Centre follows evidence-based protocols aligned with Mayo Clinic Care Network (MCCN) standards and adopts the CERTAIN critical care framework to standardise ICU workflows. Early-phase rehabilitation incorporates personalised neurorehabilitation, robotic-assisted therapy, and a dedicated Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Lab. A Stroke Nurse Navigator ensures coordinated care from admission to post-discharge. [Centre] YBhg. Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim, President and Chief Executive, Johor Corporation (JCorp) and Chairman of KPJ Healthcare University at Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 Rehabilitation Centre to explore the facilities and treatment options offered for stroke patients. Beyond stroke care, the CoE expands subspecialty services in movement disorders and Parkinson’s disease, with plans for Deep Brain Stimulation. SMART Ward features and PACS-enabled digital systems enhance real-time monitoring and multidisciplinary coordination. The Centre also supports education, training, and clinical research, contributing to the development of digitally enabled stroke care solutions in collaboration with KPJ Healthcare University. [Second from Left] YBhg. Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim, President and Chief Executive, Johor Corporation (JCorp) and Chairman of KPJ Healthcare University accompanied by [Second from Right] Mr Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare Berhad and Senior Management team of Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 (DSH2) during the launch of SMART Ward at DSH2. This launch is part of KPJ Healthcare’s roadmap to establish 15 Centres of Excellence by 2030, strengthening its network of specialised services across Malaysia.

Boutique developer Armani Group has further strengthened its presence in the highlands hospitality sector with the official opening of Oakwood Cameron Highlands in Pahang, a 383-key golf-front serviced residence managed by The Ascott Ltd. The launch marks a significant addition to the group’s growing portfolio of high-end hospitality properties in Malaysia. Strategically located on an elevated hilltop overlooking the Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Club in Tanah Rata, Oakwood Cameron Highlands offers 383 units that include deluxe rooms, studios, and two-bedroom family suites of up to 90 square metres. Select residences are equipped with fully fitted kitchens, washing machines, and dryers, providing guests with a blend of comfort and convenience for both short and extended stays. “The scale of the development and its distinctive hilltop, golf-front positioning bring a differentiated product to Cameron Highlands. The residential configuration is designed to cater to a variety of travellers, including families, golfers, and corporate groups seeking spacious accommodation with scenic views,” said Simon Yu, general manager of Oakwood Cameron Highlands. The English-inspired property features a variety of food and beverage outlets, including Oakbistro, an all-day dining restaurant serving a curated selection of international and local cuisine, and Oaklounge, a stylish lounge offering panoramic views of the golf course. Guests also have access to a fully equipped gymnasium, 24-hour reception services, an on-site laundrette, complimentary WiFi, and comprehensive housekeeping services. Beyond its accommodation and dining offerings, Oakwood Cameron Highlands exemplifies Armani Group’s commitment to creating experiential hospitality spaces that combine luxury, leisure, and lifestyle. The project reinforces the group’s vision of expanding its highlands portfolio and providing memorable, premium experiences for guests seeking both relaxation and recreational opportunities. With the opening of Oakwood Cameron Highlands, Armani Group strengthens its foothold in the Cameron Highlands hospitality market, while The Ascott Ltd continues to expand its serviced residence footprint across Malaysia, catering to growing demand from both local and international travellers. The property is expected to attract a diverse clientele, from holidaymakers and golf enthusiasts to corporate travellers, further establishing the region as a sought-after destination for high-quality serviced residences.

Skylon, a premium development by GBD Land in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, has officially appointed COBNB as its hospitality partner, launching the new COBNB+ premium brand. Skylon is the first property to feature this initiative. Under COBNB+, all PLUS-managed residences at Skylon will be upgraded with L’Occitane en Provence hotel amenities, offering guests a luxury experience and raising hospitality standards for serviced residences. The program combines curated interiors, high operational standards, and technology-driven services to deliver a boutique-hotel feel within a serviced apartment setting. COBNB+ represents the top tier of COBNB’s managed portfolio, designed for guests who value comfort, consistency, and effortless stays. L’Occitane en Provence was chosen for its global reputation, premium quality, and commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, perfectly aligning with COBNB’s focus on experience-led hospitality. The launch of COBNB+ at Skylon sets a new benchmark for managed residences in Malaysia and reflects GBD Land and COBNB’s shared goal of enhancing guest satisfaction and long-term asset value. The rollout will expand to other selected developments, positioning COBNB+ as the flagship standard for luxury short-stay and serviced living. About GBD LandGBD Land is a property developer focused on lifestyle-driven residential projects that combine design, quality, and long-term value. About L’Occitane en ProvenceL’Occitane en Provence, founded in southern France, is a global brand known for natural ingredients and Provençal heritage, widely used in luxury hotels and resorts. About COBNBCOBNB is Malaysia’s leading short-term rental and hospitality management platform, combining technology, design, and service to enhance guest experiences and maximise asset performance.

Astro Malaysia has partnered with Naga DDB Tribal to launch its Chinese New Year 2026 campaign, “All Right! Kudada”, a creative platform designed to rekindle festive spirit and strengthen Astro’s position as Malaysia’s go-to entertainment choice for Chinese households. Celebrating Tradition with a Fresh Twist The campaign, themed “Spark New Celebration, Find New Joy,” encourages Malaysians to honour tradition while embracing new ways to celebrate, reigniting the warmth and meaning of reunion during the festive season. Astro aims to shift perceptions of the brand from a simple content provider to an entertainment ecosystem that brings families and communities together. The campaign focuses on a common sentiment: over time, Chinese New Year can feel routine, losing its emotional warmth. “All Right! Kudada” seeks to restore joy, connection, and creativity in celebrations. “Chinese New Year has always been about togetherness,” said Benjamin Woo, Head of Group Marketing, Astro. “This year, we’re inspiring Malaysians to honour traditions while exploring fresh ways to celebrate—through entertainment, experiences, and content that bring people closer.” “All Right! Kudada”: A Playful New Festive Icon The campaign’s name blends optimism and contemporary flair: “All Right!” conveys confidence, while 酷哒哒 (Kù dā dā) adds playful, trendy energy appealing to younger audiences. At the heart of the campaign is Kudada, a Year of the Horse mascot designed to embody renewed festive joy. With a fiery tail, expressive personality, and connections to six blessings—Prosperity, Fortune, Health, Studies, Career, and Wealth—Kudada serves as both a cultural icon and collectible, available in limited-edition plush blind packs. “Kudada visualises the spark that reignites festive joy,” said Alvin Teoh, Chief Creative Officer, Naga DDB Tribal. “It’s bold, playful, and culturally resonant, bridging nostalgia with modern celebration.” An Integrated Festive Experience The campaign spans a wide range of touchpoints, including digital and broadcast content, social and messaging platforms, experiential retail activations, merchandise, and collectibles. These elements are designed to engage audiences across multiple channels while maintaining a consistent festive narrative. Lessons for Brands Astro’s CNY 2026 campaign highlights how cultural celebrations can be reimagined for a modern audience. By aligning with generational shifts and encouraging creativity and self-expression, the campaign reinforces Astro’s role as a brand that connects Malaysians while keeping traditions relevant. “Festive moments are evolving, and brands must evolve too,” added Teoh. “This campaign shows how cultural relevance, entertainment, and experiences can come together to create celebrations that are meaningful, fun, and memorable.”

Nestlé (Malaysia) Bhd has announced that it will explore the potential sale of its ice cream business to UK-based Froneri International Ltd, following the global divestment of Nestlé’s ice cream operations. The move aligns with Nestlé SA’s broader strategy to streamline its business portfolio and focus on core segments such as coffee, petcare, nutrition, and food and snacks. Recently, Nestlé SA revealed that it is in advanced negotiations to sell the remainder of its global ice cream business to Froneri, a joint venture between European private equity firm PAI Partners and Nestlé. While the initial sale primarily involved Nestlé’s European ice cream operations and selected businesses in other regions, Nestlé Malaysia’s ice cream operations were not included in the original scope. In response, Nestlé Malaysia has filed with Bursa Malaysia confirming that it will now initiate a structured process to explore a potential sale of its ice cream business to Froneri. The process is expected to include thorough due diligence, comprehensive engagement with relevant local stakeholders, and strict adherence to all applicable legal, regulatory, and governance requirements. The potential transaction would mark a significant step in Nestlé Malaysia’s alignment with its parent company’s global strategy, allowing it to focus resources on other high-growth segments while ensuring that its ice cream operations continue under the management of Froneri, a specialist in the frozen desserts sector. The company emphasized that the evaluation process will be conducted with full transparency and will consider the interests of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and regulators, before any final decision is made.

McDonald’s Malaysia, a familiar choice for urban and suburban diners, is set to expand further despite the country’s evolving food scene. More than 40 years after its first outlet opened on Jalan Bukit Bintang in 1982, the brand remains a leader in Malaysia’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector. In 2025, it posted a 26% year-on-year growth despite rising competition. (From left to right) Hamid Ahmad, Vice President & Chief Development Officer, McDonald’s Malaysia, Wong Xinru, Restaurant General Manager, McDonald’s Titiwangsa, Dato’ Haji Azmir Jaafar, Managing Director & Local Operating Partner, McDonald’s Malaysia and Melati Abdul Hai, Senior Vice President & Chief Impact Officer, McDonald’s Malaysia in front of the reopened McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru restaurant featuring the new Luna design. Over the next five years, McDonald’s Malaysia — fully owned by Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GARSB) — will invest RM1 billion to drive expansion, modernisation, and youth-focused talent development. Why the RM1 Billion Investment?According to managing director Dato’ Haji Azmir Jaafar, the investment is driven by strong growth, untapped market potential, and favourable demographics. “Our 26% growth in 2025 shows strong demand, and with over 370 outlets nationwide, there’s still room to expand,” he said. The fund aims to modernise outlets, maintain competitiveness, and meet evolving customer expectations. Night view of the transformed McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru showcasing vibrant Luna façade. Azmir welcomed the growing F&B competition, noting it encourages innovation and benefits Malaysian consumers while creating more job opportunities. He emphasised McDonald’s scale, operational consistency, and reliable customer experience as key strengths that maintain its market leadership. How the RM1 Billion Will Be Used RM600 million for 100 new outlets nationwide, creating over 10,000 jobs. RM200 million to refurbish 150 existing outlets, including landmark sites like the Titiwangsa Drive-Thru. RM200 million for digital upgrades, including self-order kiosks, the McDonald’s App, and kitchen systems, supporting efficient operations amid the rise of delivery and cashless payments. Youth Employment and Talent DevelopmentMcDonald’s Malaysia is one of the country’s largest youth employers. Its Vocational Academy, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources under the National Dual Training System (SLDN), has trained over 5,000 youths since 2018, with more than 80% continuing careers at McDonald’s. The company aims for up to 40% of its future workforce to come from academy-trained talent. Dato’ Haji Azmir Jaafar, Managing Director & Local Operating Partner, McDonald’s Malaysia in front of the reopened Titiwangsa Drive-Thru restaurant with the new Luna design. Despite challenges in recent years, McDonald’s Malaysia continues to emphasise its local ownership, workforce commitment, and long-term investment strategy, employing over 16,000 Malaysians and maintaining a 100% local hiring policy.

Raya 2026 sees ‘Tree House’ green emerge as the top colour choice, according to a recent OhBulan! poll of 711 respondents. Muted, warm, and versatile, the earthy green garnered 6.5% of votes, edging out Cosmic Navy (6.1%) and Orinoco (4.3%). The popularity of Tree House green reflects a broader shift in festive styling.  This trend reflects a shift in festive styling, with Malaysians favouring adaptable tones that can be worn again and easily paired with other colours, rather than bold, statement hues. The Raya 2026 palette highlights versatility, featuring: Tree House green – earthy, muted green with warm undertones Cosmic Navy – deep, refined blue, suitable for day or evening looks Orinoco – soft, sandy neutral for understated elegance Lake Alone – muted blue-grey for a modern twist on classic pastels Leather Whip – warm, caramel brown for contemporary styling These colours complement traditional baju kurung and baju kebaya, as well as modern cuts, giving flexibility for mix-and-match festive outfits. The appeal of Tree House green extends to interiors, forming part of Nippon Paint’s Raya-inspired palette. Its warm, timeless tone works on feature walls, textiles, and décor accents. Enhanced with Silver Ion and AirGuard Technology, it ensures cleaner, safer, and low-maintenance home spaces. Tree House green is included in Nippon Paint’s range, inspired by the feeling of home. Tree House green combines practicality with style, offering Malaysians a shade that can refresh both wardrobes and homes well beyond the Raya celebrations. Explore more Raya 2026 colour ideas at Nippon Paint to find the perfect shades for your home and festive wardrobe.

Located in the heart of Shanghai’s heritage district, this stunning new luxury hotel offers fabulous views across the vibrant and bustling metropolis. Open to guests from 3 February 2026, Andaz Shanghai ITC is the last word in urban comfort, appealing to discerning travellers who appreciate quality and style. Designers drew on the theme of nostalgia, referencing numerous iconic Shanghai sights, tastes, sounds and smells that will invoke warm feelings of yesteryear among visitors from near and far. NOSTALGIA-INSPIRED DESIGN Andaz Shanghai ITC is located in one of the city’s newest landmarks, the soaring ITC Xujiahui complex, a pioneering project in the heart of a vibrant commercial area that also has a rich history. The overall concept of Andaz Shanghai ITC is “bringing outside in”, in other words a vertical Shanghai neighborhood at the crossroads of alleyways and skylines. The Xujiahui district has a storied past and was at the forefront of development when Shanghai opened up to the outside world. Motifs of the city’s past and present can be found in the luxurious rooms, destination restaurants, rooftop bar and open, neighborhood-style corridors. The third-floor hotel entranceway embodies this history-meets-contemporary spirit. A glass-brick feature wall and moss-hued rugs are inspired by Shanghai’s charming laneways, where elegant European-style low-rise buildings date back more than a century. The sleek check-in lobby on the 14th floor is similarly influenced by the Shanghai of yesteryear. The overall design is in keeping with the Andaz concept. It is a Hindi word that translates as personal style, and every Andaz hotel is unique and influenced by its local surroundings. ROOMS AND SUITES The hotel offers 267 rooms and suites, all with spectacular floor-to-ceiling views over one of the most vibrant parts of Shanghai, where century-old European-style heritage buildings nestle beside soaring skyscrapers. The interiors are stylish and spacious, with subtle design references to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. The latest hi-tech appliances and spa-like bathrooms complete the signature Andaz guest experience of refined luxury. A wide variety of accommodation options is available, many with outdoor terraces. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling views and are equipped with a Nespresso coffee maker, Simmons luxury firm mattress, 55” IPTV with extensive channels, and the Byredo Eleventh Hour amenity collection, exclusively curated for Andaz. Room sizes range from 45 sqm to the 147 sqm Executive Suite, where guests enjoy private, penthouse-style luxury living. The flagship suite features signature Andaz avant-garde design elements, custom-made by skilled Shanghai craftsmen, and commanding views of the bustling city below. The overall room-design concept takes a residential-style approach. Corridors highlight the silhouette of the plane tree, a familiar sight on the streets below. Individual room doors are intentionally varied to reinforce the residential ambience. Interiors follow a maisonette accommodation model, with free-standing wardrobes guiding guests towards the bathroom, where 3D tiles enhance the personalized, home-bathroom feel. Each bedroom is furnished with comfortable home décor to enhance relaxation. A versatile seating zone supports lounging, dining or working, reinforcing the personal-haven experience. This seamless integration of Shanghai history, new design language and authentic local touches ensures guests become part of the Shanghai narrative, where the present is infused with the past. LEISURE FACILITIES The gym design follows the overarching theme of Andaz Shanghai ITC’s leisure facilities—an intimate space emphasizing privacy and members-only exclusivity. Each workout takes place in a refined environment rather than a utilitarian fitness centre open to one and all. DINING AND DRINKS The three exciting culinary options at Andaz Shanghai ITC ensure the hotel becomes a destination-dining spot in a cosmopolitan city where people know their food. The Rooftop BarA gathering place for the city’s movers and shakers, decision-makers and influencers. Guests can sample innovative tea-infused cocktails while admiring fashion-themed décor, with photographs of haute-couture creations lining the walls. Stunning city views complete the experience. The West WingA European and Shanghainese deli and wine bar offering small-plate dining in the heart of Shanghai. The décor and atmosphere are stylishly vintage. The East WingA spacious and airy dining enclave offering a wide range of options. Breakfast and lunch feature enticing food stations, while evenings showcase classic Shanghainese dishes prepared with local ingredients, delivering nostalgic childhood flavors. High ceilings, canopy-style lighting and refined décor enhance the dining experience. Discreet private dining rooms and a plant-filled outdoor terrace are also available. OPENING OFFER FOR WORLD OF HYATT MEMBERS Book any room type for two nights or more during the opening period and enjoy exclusive privileges as part of World of Hyatt’s New Hotel Member Offer: Daily breakfast for up to two guests Opening bonus of 500 World of Hyatt points per night Additional 2,000 World of Hyatt bonus points per stay This offer is valid for bookings made via Hyatt.com, the World of Hyatt Mobile App and Hyatt WeChat Mall, for stays from 10 February to 2 May 2026, with no blackout dates. A one-night room rate guarantee applies, and cancellations must be made at least 48 hours prior to arrival. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotions or discounts. For more information or to book a reservation, please visit WebsiteConnect with Andaz Shanghai ITC online via Instagram and Rednote

Malaysian-born coffee chain Zus Coffee has officially launched in Thailand, aiming to open 50 outlets across the country by 2026 as part of its ongoing expansion in Southeast Asia amid growing competition in the region’s café market. The Thailand venture follows the brand’s presence in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Brunei, with Indonesia slated as the next market in its regional pipeline. The expansion is part of Zus Coffee’s broader strategy to scale its app-first, data-driven retail model across Southeast Asia. Venon Tian Jerng Hui, chief operating officer of Zuspresso (M) Sdn Bhd, said the Thailand launch is a significant step for the Malaysian brand. “Together with our team in Thailand, we are excited for the next stage of growth for Zus, as we learn from and adapt to the unique and rich Southeast Asian palate this country offers,” he said at the launch event. At the heart of Zus Coffee’s model is its proprietary mobile app, which collects consumer preference data to guide menu development and localisation. This enables the company to tailor offerings to local tastes while maintaining cost efficiency as it scales. “The group aims to replicate its everyday-value proposition in Thailand by offering consistent quality at accessible prices,” said Zus Coffee Thailand general manager Pattarnun Meesiripeyratorn. The chain’s bestselling Spanish Latte, which has sold more than 30 million cups globally, remains a key anchor product for new markets. Founded in 2019, Zus Coffee reached its 1,000th outlet milestone in 2025, supported by a workforce of about 8,000 employees across the region.