Lifestyle

KYOTO, JAPAN: Travelodge Hotels Asia is excited to welcome thousands of guests to the newly refreshed and renovated Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Omiya, nestled in the lively Shijo Omiya district. Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Omiya now features upgraded interiors, thoughtfully redesigned rooms, and exclusive Buy 1 Get 1 Free grand opening promotion designed for smart travelers looking to experience the best of Kyoto. Ideally located just a 5-minute walk from Shijo Omiya Station, the hotel offers convenient access to Kyoto’s iconic landmarks, including Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and the Gion district. Surrounded by vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, it’s the perfect base for both first-time and returning visitors. “At Travelodge Hotels Asia, we believe that great stays should be simple, smart, and stress-free,” said Pinky Lam, Chief Operating Officer of Travelodge Hotels Asia. “The refreshed Kyoto Shijo Omiya combines Comfort, Convenience, and Connectivity at unbeatable value – right in the heart of Kyoto for local and international guests.” As part of the grand reopening event, the hotel is currently launching a limited-time Flash Sale – Buy 1 Get 1 Free until 27 May 2025, valid for stay dates until 31 December 2025. Guests who book a minimum stay of 2 nights can also enjoy exclusive bonuses from complimentary Yukata Experiences to a big chance of winning real 24K Gold Bar! The hotel now features 106 newly renovated rooms in six types, all designed for comfort and convenience of solo, business, friends and family travelers: Standard Queen – 36 rooms, 14㎡ Superior Queen – 10 rooms, 19㎡ Standard Twin – 40 rooms, 18㎡ Friends & Family Triple – 10 rooms, 18㎡ Friends & Family Quadruple – 8 rooms, 21㎡ Accessible Room – 2 rooms, 17㎡ Book directly at www.travelodgehotels.asia to enjoy exclusive benefits available only on our official website: Best Price and Promotion Guarantee:Travelodge Hotels Asia ensures members save more and pay less for an elevated stay experience in our hotels. Up to 5% Cashback for Travelodge Cashback Members: Join Travelodge Cashback for free at https://www.travelodgehotels.asia/travelodge-cashback/! Earn up to 5% cashback on every booking, which you can use for future stays at any Travelodge Hotels Asia property. Members also get perks like early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability. Pay at Hotel Payment Flexibility: No fuss, no rush-your booking is secured, and you can pay at the hotel during check-in. Our team is here to ensure a smooth, hassle-free stay. Flexibility to Modify Your Reservation: Easily modify your booking anytime using the “My Reservation” feature on our website, based on the room policy. 24/7 Reliable Customer Support: Travelodge Hotels Asia is one-click away for assistance and help. You can email us at [email protected]. “So, what are we waiting for? We can’t wait to welcome travelers from around the world to our newest Travelodge hotel in Kyoto Shijo Omiya,” closed Pinky Lam, COO of Travelodge Hotels Asia. Hashtag: #TravelodgeHotelsAsia #TravelodgeKyotoShijoOmiya #TravelodgeJapan https://www.travelodgehotels.asia/travelodge-kyoto-shijo-omiya/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/travelodge-asia https://www.facebook.com/TravelodgeHotelsAsia/ https://www.instagram.com/travelodgeasia The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Travelodge Hotels (Asia) Travelodge Hotels (Asia) Pte. Ltd. is one of the leading and fastest growing hotel management and franchise companies in Asia, based in Singapore. Travelodge Hotels Asia is behind the rapid expansion of Travelodge-branded hotels across Asia in Japan, China and Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. Currently operating 19 hotels, the company aims to expand to over 50 properties by 2030 through acquisitions, leases, management agreements, master franchises, franchises, and joint ventures. Travelodge Hotels Asia is focused on offering value-for-experience stays in strategic locations at mid-scale and select-service hotels. Backed by over 80 years of global brand heritage, Travelodge in Asia delivers Travelodge Signature Experience of Comfort, Convenience, and Connectivity — ensuring every traveler an essentially covered stay, wherever and whenever they stay with us. We are #EssentiallyBetter at empowering travel and discovery to be accessible for everyone. Contact [email protected] for more inquiries.

SINGAPORE: American Express and Singapore Airlines today announced the introduction of new benefits to the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card, designed to provide greater travel rewards and enhanced redemption options for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The enhancements include a higher limit on converting HighFlyer points to KrisFlyer miles and the ability to redeem points for KrisFlyer Elite Gold status at a discounted rate. Left to Right: Mr. Marlin Brown, Singapore Country Manager, American Express and Mr. Ng Yung Han, Vice President Global and Corporate Sales, Singapore Airlines Updated Benefits for the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card Starting 23 April 20251, new and refreshed benefits include: Increased limit for HighFlyer point-to-KrisFlyer mile conversion to 150,000 miles – previously capped at 100,000 miles. HighFlyer points convert to KrisFlyer miles at a 1:1 rate. Attaining KrisFlyer Elite Gold status with the redemption of 100,000 HighFlyer points, compared with the standard requirement of 125,000 points2. Welcome bonus of 10,000 HighFlyer points when businesses new to the HighFlyer programme complete their first flight, booked via the Singapore Airlines HighFlyer booking portal. Access to accelerated KrisFlyer Elite Gold status upgrade for one corporate traveller3 with a minimum spending of S$15,000 on eligible Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights in the first year of Card Membership. Bonus of 6,000 HighFlyer points, when Card Members pay their annual renewal membership fee. Earn rate of up to 8 HighFlyer points per S$1 spent on Singapore Airlines or Scoot flights. This includes 2 HighFlyer points per S$1 spent on eligible Singapore Airlines Group transactions4, 1 bonus HighFlyer point per S$1 spent on qualifying Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights on the Card, and a base rate of 5 HighFlyer points per S$1 spent awarded by Singapore Airlines for HighFlyer members who purchase an eligible flight ticket. Card Members also enjoy 1.2 HighFlyer points per S$1 on all other eligible spending on the Card. Card Members will continue to enjoy existing benefits such as: 0% interest on instalments over six months on Singapore Airlines flights. Accor Plus membership, including a complimentary night stay every year, up to 50% off dining across AccorHotels properties in Asia Pacific, with annual fee payment. Hertz Gold status with 10% off best available retail rates, one car class upgrade for rentals, and more. With these benefits, the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card will have an annual fee of S$400 including 9% GST, starting 23 April 2025. Mr. Marlin Brown, Singapore Country Manager, American Express, said, “Building on our 25-year partnership with Singapore Airlines, we are excited to refresh the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card, which is designed to help business owners go further – delivering greater rewards, travel benefits and financial flexibility to support their growth.” Mr. Ng Yung Han, Vice President Global and Corporate Sales, Singapore Airlines, said: “Singapore Airlines’ long-standing collaboration with American Express has allowed us to deliver even more benefits and rewards to our customers. The Singapore Airlines HighFlyer business travel programme, coupled with these enhancements to the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card, offers a comprehensive suite of rewards to small and medium enterprises. These are tailored to give them even greater flexibility and value as they travel with Singapore Airlines.” Please visit go.amex/siabusinessterms for more details on the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card.    

SINGAPORE: Banyan Group has introduced the Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus, a collection of 16 ultra-luxurious beachfront homes at the world-renowned Laguna Phuket on Bang Tao Beach. These exclusive residences, ranging from 416 sqm to an expansive 768 sqm for penthouses, offer a rare opportunity to own an absolute beachfront property in one of Asia’s most sought-after destinations. With prime coastal land becoming increasingly scarce, these homes are expected to command record prices as demand for Phuket’s luxury real estate surges. Redefining Luxury Living Each residence is designed to deliver unparalleled sophistication, featuring sprawling living spaces over 13 metres wide, double master bedrooms, and oversized luxury bathrooms. The penthouses boast private rooftop pools and reflecting ponds, while ground-floor units come with spacious terraces and personal swimming pools overlooking the Andaman Sea. “With standalone beachfront villas becoming nearly impossible to develop, we identified a unique opportunity to create grand-scale, high-end condominiums that offer the space and prestige of a villa—without the hassle of upkeep,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director at Banyan Group Residences. Residents also enjoy access to an exclusive lap pool with a sun deck, open lawns with lounging areas, and outdoor dining spaces, ensuring a resort-style living experience. Exclusive Privileges & World-Class Amenities As part of the Laguna Phuket community—one of Asia’s premier integrated resort destinations just 30 minutes from Phuket International Airport—homeowners benefit from unmatched services, including: Complimentary Thailand Elite visa and Laguna Golf Phuket membership Access to a private beach club, premium wellness facilities, and world-class spas Enrollment at SILK, Laguna’s renowned pre-school, and privileges at top Phuket international schools One year of complimentary property and insurance services Special medical and healthcare rates A 24-hour concierge service ensures that maintenance, security, and rental management are taken care of seamlessly. Maximizing Investment Potential For investors, Banyan Group’s Banyan Living Rental Solution offers a hassle-free way to generate rental income while maintaining the highest property standards. Through Banyan’s extensive global distribution network, central reservations platform, and multilingual customer service team, owners can optimize visibility, occupancy, and returns. Additionally, Banyan’s Sanctuary Club membership grants property owners exclusive benefits and bespoke experiences across Banyan Group properties worldwide. With its rare beachfront location, ultra-luxurious design, and exclusive privileges, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus sets a new benchmark for high-end coastal living in Phuket.

Hamad International Airport (DOH), recognized as the World’s Best Airport and Best Airport Shopping by Skytrax 2024, has unveiled its much-anticipated Concourses D and E, a landmark expansion that enhances global connectivity and elevates the travel experience. Completed ahead of schedule, the expansion increases the airport’s annual passenger capacity to over 65 million, solidifying Doha’s position as a premier aviation hub. This milestone marks the completion of the airport’s ambitious expansion plan, which commenced in 2018. It follows the 2022 launch of the ORCHARD, a 6,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden, reinforcing Hamad International Airport’s commitment to redefining modern air travel. The latest additions seamlessly integrate with the existing terminal, introducing cutting-edge technology and passenger-focused amenities to meet the growing demand for premium travel experiences. Enhancing Global Travel Through Innovation With the completion of Concourses D and E, the terminal now spans 842,000 square meters—an increase of 14%—and features 17 additional aircraft contact gates, bringing the total to 62, nearly 40% more than before. This expansion streamlines airport operations, enhances passenger flow, and reduces bus transfers, ensuring a seamless travel experience. “Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a key pillar of Qatar’s global connectivity and economic growth,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. “Delivering this project ahead of schedule reflects our commitment to operational excellence and strategic planning. This expansion is not just about increasing capacity—it strengthens the Qatar Airways network, enhances operational resilience, and supports the nation’s economic ambitions under Qatar National Vision 2030.” Echoing this sentiment, Hamad International Airport Chief Operating Officer, Hamad Ali Al Khater, stated: “Our focus is on delivering operational excellence that supports both current and future growth. The opening of Concourses D and E represents a major milestone, optimizing passenger flow, resource management, and airline connectivity to ensure a world-class travel experience.” Key Features of Concourses D and E Seamless Boarding Through Smart Technology The new concourses incorporate advanced self-boarding systems, reducing wait times and streamlining passenger movement through efficient document verification and biometric authentication. Enhanced Connectivity and Global Reach With increased gate capacity and optimized flight operations, Hamad International Airport can now accommodate more international carriers and offer expanded direct routes to key global destinations, strengthening Qatar’s position as a premier transit hub. Elevated Passenger Experience The expansion prioritizes passenger comfort, featuring enhanced facilities, ergonomic seating, and an expanded retail and dining portfolio. Qatar Duty Free introduces over 10 new luxury retail outlets and food and beverage venues, adding 2,700 square meters of additional retail space. This move reinforces the airport’s reputation as a premier shopping and lifestyle destination. Commitment to Sustainability Sustainability remains at the forefront of Hamad International Airport’s development. Concourses D and E are designed to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and aim for LEED Gold Certification. The expansion incorporates energy-efficient technologies, advanced water management systems, and optimized thermal comfort strategies, aligning with global sustainability objectives. Accessibility and Inclusivity The airport embraces universal design principles, ensuring a seamless experience for all travelers. Features such as barrier-free pathways, spacious seating, hearing loops, and dedicated assistance services underscore Hamad International Airport’s commitment to inclusivity. A Landmark Expansion Beyond Concourses D and E The unveiling of Concourses D and E represents the final phase of Hamad International Airport’s broader transformation. At its heart is the ORCHARD, a lush indoor tropical garden designed to enhance traveler well-being and redefine airport aesthetics. The Central Concourse has been expanded to improve passenger flow, while the airport’s luxury retail and dining offerings have been significantly elevated to cater to global travelers’ evolving expectations. With its latest expansion, Hamad International Airport reaffirms its status as a world-class aviation hub, delivering unparalleled connectivity, innovation, and luxury travel experiences. As global travel demand rises, the airport’s forward-thinking approach ensures that it remains at the forefront of modern air travel, setting new benchmarks for operational excellence and passenger satisfaction.

MOSCOW: Moscow Fashion Week set to unfold from March 13 to 18 will showcase 200 designers, with a focus on Asian powerhouses such as China, India, and Indonesia, offering a vital platform for designers to tap into international markets and engage with a global audience of millions. The event in the Russian capital promises exciting opportunities for cultural exchange and business growth, particularly for Asian brands looking to enter the Russian and Eastern European markets, all aiming to make their mark on the international stage. Experts from Malaysia, a nation where the textile industry has long held a vital role in the economy, eagerly await the participation of their colleagues who have already confirmed their presence at the event. Asian brands continue to return season after season to the fashion week, drawn by the boundless opportunities it presents for their brands. Renowned Chinese designer Li Ying, the creative mind behind the I-LA label, expressed her excitement about participating in the event, calling it the most important fashion event in Russia. “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, the Chinese textile industry has developed rapidly, and over time, more Chinese brands have entered the Russian market. This not only promotes cultural exchange, but also shows the development of Chinese brands in the Russian market. Moscow Fashion Week is an excellent platform for developing her brand in Russia” Li Ying believes . Meanwhile, India will present a joint showcase featuring two exceptional brands—CoEK – Khadi India and Samant Chauhan. Their designs combine national artistic traditions with vivid hand embroidery, ethnic motifs, botanical patterns, and unique fabrics, all while featuring modern European aesthetics. Indonesia, consecutively returns for Moscow Fashion Week bringing fresh talent with Syukriah Rusydi’s brand REBORN29. Rusydi shared that her participation can help raise Indonesia’s fashion profile in Russia and Eastern Europe, fostering collaborations with buyers, distributors, and local retailers. “With the increasing awareness of sustainable fashion, I believe that REBORN29’s collection can compete and be well received in the Russian market,” she added. The event will also feature noteworthy Russian designers such as Alena Musaeva and Sergey Sysoev, and a plethora of talented creatives hailing from all corners of the country. The fashion week this year has witnessed an overwhelming number of applications, underscoring its status as a major international fashion event. Journalists, celebrities, fashion aficionados, and buyers are set to gather at Moscow Fashion Week, creating a convergence that blends socio-cultural, economic, and diplomatic dimensions, driving the industry forward and promoting international cooperation.

LANGKAWI: Kedah, a state renowned for its natural wonders, historical treasures, and cultural heritage, is set to welcome visitors for Visit Kedah 2025, a year-long celebration under the theme “Experience Kedah.” As one of Kedah’s standout destinations, Langkawi Island continues to draw global attention, recently named the 9th Best Island Destination in the World by Travel & Leisure. While Langkawi is known for its pristine beaches, world-class resorts, and adventure-filled landscapes, there’s more to discover beyond its famous attractions. One such hidden treasure is Pulau Tuba, an untouched paradise just five kilometers from Kuah, offering visitors a rare glimpse into traditional island life, rich biodiversity, and eco-tourism adventures. A Part of Langkawi’s Rich Natural and Cultural Heritage As part of Langkawi’s legendary archipelago, Pulau Tuba stands out as the only inhabited island apart from the main Langkawi Island. This hilly, scenic island, accessible via a 20-minute boat ride, provides an opportunity for visitors to experience a peaceful retreat while immersing themselves in the island’s rich cultural heritage. Pulau Tuba is also known as the “Islamic Island”, as its entire population is Muslim, fostering a close-knit community that preserves age-old traditions. Despite modern facilities such as electricity, fresh water, and telecommunications, many villagers continue to rely on wells for water and engage in sustainable, traditional practices. Pulau Tuba: A Must-Visit Destination for Visit Kedah 2025 As Visit Kedah 2025 encourages travelers to explore beyond mainstream attractions, Pulau Tuba stands out as a hidden paradise that offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in Langkawi. With Langkawi gaining international recognition as a top island destination, Pulau Tuba provides an alternative retreat for those seeking eco-adventures, cultural experiences, and pristine landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, an adventure-filled journey, or a deep dive into Langkawi’s rich heritage, Pulau Tuba is a must-visit in 2025. A Living Fishing Village with Deep-Rooted Traditions Pulau Tuba is one of Langkawi’s last remaining fishing villages, where the entire male workforce is engaged in fishing and farming, while the women contribute to the local economy through handicrafts. Visitors can gain an authentic cultural experience through the island’s homestay programs, organized by Malaysia’s Fisheries Development Authority, which allow tourists to: Live with fishing families and participate in their daily routines Try traditional fishing methods, catching bronok (a type of sea cucumber), shrimp, crabs, and fish such as jenahak Experience rice paddy farming Learn traditional craft-making, including weaving pandan and coconut leaf mats An Unspoiled Haven for Wildlife and Rare Flora Pulau Tuba remains largely undeveloped, making it a natural sanctuary for wildlife, herbs, and medicinal plants. The island gets its name from the Tuba plant, a rare species whose roots have long been used as a natural method to catch fish. Nature lovers will enjoy spotting hornbills soaring across the island, along with other native birds and wildlife. The island’s forests and mangroves provide an abundant source of herbs, wild fruits, wax, and honey, which locals gather and sell to supplement their income. A Hidden Adventure Destination in Langkawi For those looking to explore Langkawi’s untamed side, Pulau Tuba offers a variety of outdoor experiences, including: Trekking through 350-million-year-old limestone formations Exploring Gua Wang Buloh and Gua Kelawar, caves filled with natural wonders Climbing Bukit Batu Licin, a challenging but rewarding hike Relaxing at secluded beaches, such as Tanjung Pandan Beach and Bagan Asam Beach   Plan Your Escape to Pulau Tuba as Part of Visit Kedah 2025! Pulau Tuba is ready to welcome travelers as part of Visit Kedah 2025, showcasing its vibrant culture, unspoiled beauty, and unique island lifestyle. Easily accessible via affordable boat and ferry rides, this hidden jewel of Langkawi is the perfect addition to any itinerary. Visitors can easily access Pulau Tuba from Langkawi via affordable boat or ferry rides. For more information on travel options, accommodations, and tourism activities, visit https://www.tourism.gov.my/.

KUALA LUMPUR: In 2025, Traveloka marks a significant milestone, celebrating 13 years of growth and innovation. With a vision to revolutionize travel, Traveloka began its journey in Indonesia in 2012 and has since evolved into a one-stop travel platform, serving travelers across Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam to experience the region and the world. As part of its birthday celebrations, Traveloka is launching Birthday Sale, offering exclusive discounts, special coupons, and flash sales across Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Running from February 24 to March 4, 2025, Traveloka is inviting travelers to plan their 2025 adventures with greater ease, value, and flexibility. Reflecting on the journey of the company, acknowledging how far the company has come, Caesar Indra, President of Traveloka said, “For over a decade, Traveloka has redefined travel—not just in Southeast Asia, but across key global markets, combining deep market expertise, strong industry partnerships, and a commitment to advancing tourism. With over 40 million active users and operations in 8 countries, we have grown into a global travel platform, evolving with our travelers to offer innovative, tailored experiences. The Traveloka Birthday Sale is a celebration of this journey—our way of giving back to customers and reaffirming our commitment to delivering seamless and rewarding travel worldwide.” Unlock Exclusive Travel Deals and Make Every Journey More Rewarding with Traveloka.” As a token of appreciation for its valued customers, Traveloka is offering a series of exclusive deals to help travelers maximize their 2025 travel plans. In collaboration with thousands of partners—including airlines, hotels, attractions, and more—Traveloka is offering special promotions that provide exceptional value: Stand a chance to win a Business Class ticket to ANYWHERE! Enjoy up to 50% off on flights, hotels, and travel activities, making dream destinations more affordable than ever. Everyday Flash Sales available twice a day from 10am to 12 noon and again from 10pm to 12 midnight. With a diverse portfolio of over 20 products, spanning transportation, accommodations, and attractions, Traveloka empowers users to curate personalized travel experiences. Now enhanced by Traveloka 5.0, powered by AI, the platform offers a more intuitive interface, innovative features, and expanded offerings. Cruise and Tour Packages are now available, streamlining trip planning from transport to attractions. With AI-driven search for endless travel inspiration and an upgraded Traveloka Points system for greater rewards, Traveloka 5.0 delivers a more seamless and personalized experience for every traveler. Transforming Travel With Our Partners Beyond its mission of helping millions of customers explore new destinations, Traveloka is also dedicated to supporting the growth of tourism businesses and local communities. In partnership with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Traveloka has provided sustainability training to over 150 hotels across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. In 2024, Traveloka became GSTC’s first-ever platinum sponsor, further demonstrating our unique position to promote best practices in sustainable tourism and standards in the travel industry. Additionally, through the Traveloka Goodwill – Digital Literacy program, more than 96,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), business owners, and students in the hospitality and tourism industry in Southeast Asia have gained essential digital skills and knowledge enabling them to adapt to an increasingly digitalized market. Looking Ahead: Empowering Partners and Strengthening the Travel Ecosystem Throughout these years, Traveloka has established strong partnerships with over 300 airlines, 2.2 million accommodation providers, and more than 90,000 travel activity partners across 100+ countries, delivering comprehensive and seamless travel solutions to customers worldwide. As the travel landscape continues to evolve, in partnership with YouGov, Traveloka released a study, “Travel Redefined: Understanding and Catering to the Diverse Needs of APAC Travellers” to help partners refine strategies and stay ahead in a dynamic market. Based on insights from 12,000 travelers across nine countries, the study highlights key trends shaping the APAC travel landscape. In Malaysia, 31% of travelers prioritize leisure trips, with a notable preference for natural destinations such as mountain ranges (59%), surpassing beach and coastal areas (57%) and historical or cultural sites (42%). This highlights the distinct travel motivations shaping Malaysian travelers’ decisions. Additionally, 37% of travelers prefer domestic destinations, driven by affordability, convenience, and safety. At the same time, 24% of Malaysian respondents express interest in international travel, a trend comparable to markets like South Korea and Australia, reflecting a balanced mix of local and overseas travel aspirations. “Traveloka has enabled us to understand evolving travel trends,” said Ms Tang Soke Cheng, Head of Hospitality, Wyndham Suites KLCC. “With its insights and extensive customer base, we are able to reach more families seeking immersive and engaging playcations. As part of this growing demand, we offer a 24,500 sqft play space—the largest of its kind in a hotel in Malaysia—providing a vibrant environment where families can bond and create unforgettable memories. Beyond enhancing guest experiences, this collaboration has also played a crucial role in supporting local tourism by creating more hospitality job opportunities. As we celebrate this anniversary, we look forward to deepening our partnership and making an even greater impact on the region’s tourism industry.”

KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (Bank Islam) and Mastercard, a leading payment technology company, today announced the launch of Shariah-compliant Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i. This new offer provides cardholders with exclusive benefits and rewards. As part of a 4-day event at MyTOWN Shopping Centre to celebrate the launch, Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i and Al-Awfar investment account holders can enjoy 1% cashback on eligible purchases until 31 August 2025, mainly on health and wellness. Along with getting access to Al-Awfar’s prize pool of over RM18 million a year, including RM1 million in cash, luxury vehicles such as the BMW 320i M Sport and Honda HRV, a Harley Davidson Road Glide Special motorcycle, a 1kg gold bar and additional cash prizes. Winners will be selected through regular lucky draws.   Exclusive to Bank Islam, the Al-Awfar program is more than just an investment account. Built on the Mudarabah (profit-sharing) concept, this Shariah-compliant model allows customers to earn returns based on shared profits from the bank’s investments, rather than receiving fixed interest. This structure ensures ethical financial growth while offering customers a meaningful and spiritually aligned way to invest.   This collaboration reflects Bank Islam and Mastercard’s shared commitment to providing faith- compliant financial products tailored to the evolving needs of Malaysians. The Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i offers online and contactless payments, with robust security and global acceptance at more than 100 million locations.   To make a positive impact on the community, Bank Islam will also donate RM2 to Sadaqa House for every Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i issued from 13 February 2025. Sadaqa House, a globally recognized social platform, mobilizes philanthropic funds from sadaqah (voluntary charity), waqf (endowment), and zakat (tithe) to support meaningful initiatives within Malaysia’s inclusive Islamic economic ecosystem.   Mizan Masram, Group Chief Business Officer, Group Retail Banking of Bank Islam, expressed the significance of this milestone, “The Al-Awfar program embodies Bank Islam’s vision of empowering customers to achieve their aspirations while promoting financial inclusivity. By partnering with Mastercard, we are able to offer innovative solutions that blend rewards with convenience. The introduction of the Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i is another step forward in providing our customers with exceptional benefits, a secure payment experience, and opportunities to contribute to sustainability initiatives.”   Beena Pothen, Country Manager, Malaysia and Brunei, Mastercard, said: “The launch of the Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i reflects Mastercard’s commitment to providing Shariah-compliant payment solutions that enhance banking experiences for Malaysians. It also demonstrates a shared vision with Bank Islam to co-create meaningful banking products that align with consumer values and needs reinforcing a collective aim to drive innovation and make a positive contribution to the community.”   During the launch, new customers who open an Al-Awfar account, deposit a minimum of RM1,000 in new funds, and apply for a Bank Islam Mastercard Debit Card-i will receive a mystery gift.   For more information on Bank Islam’s Al-Awfar investment program, visit here. Terms and conditions apply.